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2013.11.10 20:58 zebra_digital No More Zero Days
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2024.05.19 09:59 Beneficial-Guava6437 Training advice?
Hiya
I have a 10month chi, she's very friendly and sweet temperament wise. I also have two kids and a push over partner, he's definitely more of the dog person but no boundaries đŽâđ¨
I have a few issues I'd appreciate some advice/input on how to train her, as yesterday she escaped the house and ran in front of a car. She is SO lucky it didn't hit her. I spent 15 minutes trying to find her, and that's only because she found a dog walker who grabbed her đŽâđ¨
⢠Doesn't eat unless it's chicken. She will starve herself for days, and then only eat chicken. Vets given advice about no longer changing her pet food in attempts to find ones she likes Previously within a week, if she even ate it, she will reject again and honestly she didn't eat much to begin with. So now it gets put out, if she doesn't eat it within 5 minutes, it's taken away. Then she waits until dinner. It's sort of solved the problem, she's at least eating half of a meal a day.
⢠Pees everywhere. I've had to throw out a large family rug. She's destroyed my wooden floor. Doesn't like to use puppy mats. She will go outside in the morning now, but that's only recent Banned from unsupervised upstairs as she will pee and poop everywhere. She's also pooped on the kids and my beds before; I've warned my eldest (he adores her) that he can clean it up if she does it on his again, since he wants her on his bed. It's either the kitchen wood floor (which is now all black/dark brown under the table, I wish she would use puppy mats) or living room rug.
⢠No call back or commands. She just about knows SIT when it suits her. She does know her name. She knows no but doesn't always listen to it, again, unless it suits her. She also knows when she's been naughty as she legs it from me to her bed đ I really need this sorted, she is so fast and regularly escapes. She has a collar with name and number and address etc; but I can't run after her and she will eventually get eaten by another dog (lots of big dogs around here, I've had to lift her before! They must think she's a bunny!) or worse, if this continues.
⢠Eats everything on the carpet. When she does have a scrap of food, she takes it into the living room onto the carpet. At best she eats on the floor next to her bowl. I've found if i put her food outside, she eats out the bowl itself. But honestly I cannot keep cleaning my carpet of dog food as she smears it in đ I'm looking at another stair gate to sadly confine her to the kitchen, now.
⢠Jumping and biting. I get she's a puppy. But she jumps and bites my kids faces. I'm pregnant ATM and will be due soon, I don't want her accidently hurting the newborn. I don't want to end up having to get rid of her, I want to train it out of her. She doesn't always bite soft, too, she's drawn blood with myself and my youngest child. Unfortunately đ my eldest and partner (and guests, sigh) find it endearing and tell me "she's just playing", and I'm trying to explain if she mauls a neighbour's kids face by accident or their child or my baby, they will soon change their tune! I had a friend in school, who's nose literally has this massive scar where her dog as a puppy, got carried away. The dog was re-homed and she has a permanent fear of dogs.
⢠Licking - this is just me. I hate licky dogs. We have had several dogs when I was a kid and none like this. She gets carried away and has stuck her tongue up the nose of the lot of them; she doesn't get that chance with me as I put my hand on her head but she still tries.. Kids adore it. Partner adores it đ Anyway to stop her doing it? At least for me đŽâđ¨
⢠When on a lead, there is absolutely no listening skills. She does what she wants. You can say "heel" and stop all you want, she will strangle herself silly.
⢠Jumping on sofa and stealing pillows, humping pillows, using sofa to launch herself onto living room table to steal food. Also uses sofa to launch into (already set up) baby cot - this certainly has to stop! I put it out already to train her "no" like I used to do with our cat. Our cats old now so he is already trained up in forbidden places etc.
đŽâđ¨ I've never had this issue with any dogs we had since I was a child/friends puppies. I appreciate I don't have as much time to dedicate, and will be going on maternity leave so I want to be dealing with as much of it as I can before/when baby is here.
Sorry it's so long đŽâđ¨ I am just tired and it doesn't help my partner and eldest, she goes straight to them when she's naughty/not getting her way, and then I have to tell them off, too. I'm not daft, I know it's because they give in đ
Thank you đ
submitted by Beneficial-Guava6437 to Chihuahua [link] [comments]
I have a 10month chi, she's very friendly and sweet temperament wise. I also have two kids and a push over partner, he's definitely more of the dog person but no boundaries đŽâđ¨
I have a few issues I'd appreciate some advice/input on how to train her, as yesterday she escaped the house and ran in front of a car. She is SO lucky it didn't hit her. I spent 15 minutes trying to find her, and that's only because she found a dog walker who grabbed her đŽâđ¨
⢠Doesn't eat unless it's chicken. She will starve herself for days, and then only eat chicken. Vets given advice about no longer changing her pet food in attempts to find ones she likes Previously within a week, if she even ate it, she will reject again and honestly she didn't eat much to begin with. So now it gets put out, if she doesn't eat it within 5 minutes, it's taken away. Then she waits until dinner. It's sort of solved the problem, she's at least eating half of a meal a day.
⢠Pees everywhere. I've had to throw out a large family rug. She's destroyed my wooden floor. Doesn't like to use puppy mats. She will go outside in the morning now, but that's only recent Banned from unsupervised upstairs as she will pee and poop everywhere. She's also pooped on the kids and my beds before; I've warned my eldest (he adores her) that he can clean it up if she does it on his again, since he wants her on his bed. It's either the kitchen wood floor (which is now all black/dark brown under the table, I wish she would use puppy mats) or living room rug.
⢠No call back or commands. She just about knows SIT when it suits her. She does know her name. She knows no but doesn't always listen to it, again, unless it suits her. She also knows when she's been naughty as she legs it from me to her bed đ I really need this sorted, she is so fast and regularly escapes. She has a collar with name and number and address etc; but I can't run after her and she will eventually get eaten by another dog (lots of big dogs around here, I've had to lift her before! They must think she's a bunny!) or worse, if this continues.
⢠Eats everything on the carpet. When she does have a scrap of food, she takes it into the living room onto the carpet. At best she eats on the floor next to her bowl. I've found if i put her food outside, she eats out the bowl itself. But honestly I cannot keep cleaning my carpet of dog food as she smears it in đ I'm looking at another stair gate to sadly confine her to the kitchen, now.
⢠Jumping and biting. I get she's a puppy. But she jumps and bites my kids faces. I'm pregnant ATM and will be due soon, I don't want her accidently hurting the newborn. I don't want to end up having to get rid of her, I want to train it out of her. She doesn't always bite soft, too, she's drawn blood with myself and my youngest child. Unfortunately đ my eldest and partner (and guests, sigh) find it endearing and tell me "she's just playing", and I'm trying to explain if she mauls a neighbour's kids face by accident or their child or my baby, they will soon change their tune! I had a friend in school, who's nose literally has this massive scar where her dog as a puppy, got carried away. The dog was re-homed and she has a permanent fear of dogs.
⢠Licking - this is just me. I hate licky dogs. We have had several dogs when I was a kid and none like this. She gets carried away and has stuck her tongue up the nose of the lot of them; she doesn't get that chance with me as I put my hand on her head but she still tries.. Kids adore it. Partner adores it đ Anyway to stop her doing it? At least for me đŽâđ¨
⢠When on a lead, there is absolutely no listening skills. She does what she wants. You can say "heel" and stop all you want, she will strangle herself silly.
⢠Jumping on sofa and stealing pillows, humping pillows, using sofa to launch herself onto living room table to steal food. Also uses sofa to launch into (already set up) baby cot - this certainly has to stop! I put it out already to train her "no" like I used to do with our cat. Our cats old now so he is already trained up in forbidden places etc.
Sorry it's so long đŽâđ¨ I am just tired and it doesn't help my partner and eldest, she goes straight to them when she's naughty/not getting her way, and then I have to tell them off, too. I'm not daft, I know it's because they give in đ
Thank you đ
2024.05.19 09:24 ChristLover10 The Last Child (Part 2)
(First one had a decent reception so uh... heres part two. Im gonna do these as often as I can as long as people still like em. If they fall off then oh well. Im still happy so many people like it.)
I contemplated, for what seemed to be an eternity, whether or not to kill it. Just... another bug I told myself. My hand was shaking... why was I shaking? Why couldnt I do it? Why? Just lift your gun, and fire. Do it you coward. Do it. My fingers desperately clutched the pistol grip. I could feel a bead of sweat drip down my wrist inside my glove.
3 must've picked up on my sudden anxiety. They handed me their teddy bear. "Its okay mister. Mr Ears will keep us safe. He usually protects me but you can borrow him if you want."
I stared at the bear. It was a ragged thing. A typical brown teddy bear that had been torn and resown multiple times. It had bloodstains on its belly and the color had faded from what I can only assume was years spent as a sponge for tears. Its ears were strangely enough a bright yellow color. The same yellow every helldiver knows all too well. Despite its condition you could tell this bear was well loved. And here this child was offering it to me.
I holstered my senator and grabbed the teddy. It felt oddly void of stuffing. Most likely from the constant resowing that was done. I held it back out to 3. "Ill let you hold on to him for now kid. But keep him close okay? Were gonna have a tough time gettin out of here so he'll need to help out alright?"
3 nodded. Damn. Hell of a name for a kid. Gotta think of something else. For now though, I had to find another way to get the beacon working. It had power, but no way to activate it. I wondered if I could reroute one of the broadcasting stations to send out a signal. Hell, we blow em up enough cant be too hard to get it working. I pulled up the local scan on the planets surface. There were a few points of interest I logged before I lost contact with the Mother of Iron.
First, was obviously extract. Needed to keep that saved. Second was a number of different bug holes we managed to clear out before extract. Ill keep those in just to be safe. Third, here it was. An illegal broadcasting station. It was a longshot for a number of reasons. One, I had to find a way to carry the beacons transmitter 4 miles north on a bug infested planet. Thats the easy part. Second... well. Ive got to get 3 there alive with me. I didnt know what had stopped me from killing them at the moment but now I think that it was the thought that maybe our on ship doctors could cure her. Yeah. Thats it! If.. IF I could get us off this rock then we would both be able to get the best care there is. That.. yeah. That could work. Third though. Third was the hardest part. It was rare for a superdestroyer to turn around and send extract for a single Helldiver that had, in their eyes, failed to make it on board the first one. I had to convince them it was worth the time, and money, needed to be spent. Damn. I guess I had time to think of a pitch. For now. Beacon. Broadcasting tower. Simple.
submitted by ChristLover10 to helldivers2 [link] [comments]
I contemplated, for what seemed to be an eternity, whether or not to kill it. Just... another bug I told myself. My hand was shaking... why was I shaking? Why couldnt I do it? Why? Just lift your gun, and fire. Do it you coward. Do it. My fingers desperately clutched the pistol grip. I could feel a bead of sweat drip down my wrist inside my glove.
3 must've picked up on my sudden anxiety. They handed me their teddy bear. "Its okay mister. Mr Ears will keep us safe. He usually protects me but you can borrow him if you want."
I stared at the bear. It was a ragged thing. A typical brown teddy bear that had been torn and resown multiple times. It had bloodstains on its belly and the color had faded from what I can only assume was years spent as a sponge for tears. Its ears were strangely enough a bright yellow color. The same yellow every helldiver knows all too well. Despite its condition you could tell this bear was well loved. And here this child was offering it to me.
I holstered my senator and grabbed the teddy. It felt oddly void of stuffing. Most likely from the constant resowing that was done. I held it back out to 3. "Ill let you hold on to him for now kid. But keep him close okay? Were gonna have a tough time gettin out of here so he'll need to help out alright?"
3 nodded. Damn. Hell of a name for a kid. Gotta think of something else. For now though, I had to find another way to get the beacon working. It had power, but no way to activate it. I wondered if I could reroute one of the broadcasting stations to send out a signal. Hell, we blow em up enough cant be too hard to get it working. I pulled up the local scan on the planets surface. There were a few points of interest I logged before I lost contact with the Mother of Iron.
First, was obviously extract. Needed to keep that saved. Second was a number of different bug holes we managed to clear out before extract. Ill keep those in just to be safe. Third, here it was. An illegal broadcasting station. It was a longshot for a number of reasons. One, I had to find a way to carry the beacons transmitter 4 miles north on a bug infested planet. Thats the easy part. Second... well. Ive got to get 3 there alive with me. I didnt know what had stopped me from killing them at the moment but now I think that it was the thought that maybe our on ship doctors could cure her. Yeah. Thats it! If.. IF I could get us off this rock then we would both be able to get the best care there is. That.. yeah. That could work. Third though. Third was the hardest part. It was rare for a superdestroyer to turn around and send extract for a single Helldiver that had, in their eyes, failed to make it on board the first one. I had to convince them it was worth the time, and money, needed to be spent. Damn. I guess I had time to think of a pitch. For now. Beacon. Broadcasting tower. Simple.
2024.05.19 09:19 AdTrick7283 The Bollywood film âMohabbateinâ (2000) is a groundbreaking sex-ed film about male masturbation.
Spoilers ahead.
Bollywoodâs roster of adult films is a barren wasteland, dotted by the occasional Tusshar KapooMilap Zaveri release. Yet, there may be hope for the genre as long as trailblazing production house YRF keeps churning out experimental masterpieces. For well before there were Kyaa Kool Hain Hum, Masti, and Ragini MMS, there was Mohabbatein. As on several other occasions, YRF embraced the role of innovator and at the turn of the millennium brought to Bollywood what is till date the industryâs only sex-ed film. Unlike Bollywoodâs other attempts at adult cinema, Mohabbatein seeks to educateânot titillateâas moustachioed maestro Aditya Chopra examines attitudes towards male masturbation, specially amongst adolescents. To avoid offending conservative sensibilities, this sociological examination is cleverly hidden within a family-friendly romantic drama tale and presented in allegorical terms.
Mohabbatein features an ensemble cast, led by Amitabh Bachchan and DDLJ background actor Shah Rukh Khan, with Aishwarya Rai as a guest star. Although the cast also includes celebrated thespians Uday Chopra, Jugal Hansraj, and Shamita Shetty, a complete listing is omitted here for the sake of brevity. Bachchan plays Narayan Shankar, headmaster of the prestigious Gurukul boysâ college. Shankar is a stickler for rules, and imposes upon his students the need for tradition, prestige, and discipline. His rules extend to a blanket ban on romantic relationships, which forms the crux of the filmâs conflict. SRK plays Raj Aryan, a music teacher and disgraced Gurukul alumnus who has returned to the institute under anonymity, with the single goal of melting Shankarâs icy heart and impressing upon him the power of love. Finally, Aishwarya Rai plays the deceased Megha, Shankarâs late daughter and the love interest of Raj Aryan.
In a figurative sense, Gurukulâwith its forced confinement, all-male student body, and rigid rulesâis a portrayal of restrictive societies that enforce adolescent sexual repression through gender segregation and harsh oversight. Narayan Shankar, as headmaster, is the enforcer of said oversight and abides by his oppressive regulations to set an example. Gurukulâs official mottoââParampara Prathishta Anushasanââmay be shortened to âPP Anushasanâ, the word âPPâ being slang for a manâs meat pole of love and âAnushasanâ meaning discipline or regulation. Thus through its motto, the institution reveals its intention to exercise total control over its studentsâ genitalia.
Metaphorically, Narayan Shankarâs rejection of all things romantic/sexual, and his stubborn opposition to any form of changeâstated by him multiple times throughout the filmâis an allusion to his opposition to puberty and the sexual changes it brings along with it. His choice of garments throughout the filmâdull black trousers coupled with matching black sherwanisâprevents viewers from getting a view of his lush curves and adds to his thoroughly sexless demeanour. Additionally, Shankar takes pride in his habit of staring right at the sun for several minutes every morning, which is a clever allusion to the popular myth about masturbation causing damage to eyesightâa lifetime of total abstinence from masturbation has prevented Shankarâs eyes from taking any damage, and therefore he can stare full-bore into the sun for as long as he pleases. Given all this, it is unknown how he fathered a daughter in his state of permanent prepubescence, so it may be deduced that he somehow reproduced asexually. In sum, Shankar is a man struggling to indefinitely delay his own sexual maturity, and thereby desperately clinging on to a simple, childlike innocence of all sexual matters. Raj Aryan exists as the foil to Narayan Shankar, having arrived at Gurukul with the singular purpose of altering Shankarâs stunted outlook towards sexual maturity. In an allegorical sense, he portrays the biological agents and changes that act as messengers of puberty and sexual maturity, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormones and testosterone. Visually, his urbane, well-dressed appearance, along with his suave and cultured manner, stands in contrast to the dull cluelessness of Narayan Shankar and his wards, and is indicative of his sexual confidence and maturity.
Furthermore, his choice of musical instrumentâthe violinâis hardly coincidental. A violin requires precise, well-timed stroke-like movements to be made using a long, cylindrical piece of wood. The sight of Raj Aryan lounging comfortably in a chair and playing the violin with long, languid strokes, whilst wearing an expression of both contentment and pleasurable exertion, is certainly suggestive without appearing crass. The fact that his lover Megha is deceased does not decrease Raj Aryanâs passion in the slightest, as she makes an appearance in his imagination every time he leans back, closes his eyes, and handles his violin. Through such a combination of clever visual double entendres, the film conveys Raj Aryanâs use of masturbation and masturbatory fantasies as a healthy outlet for sexual expression and release.
To Gurukulâs ignorant masses, Raj Aryan is nothing short of a revelation. Like a masturbatory Pied Piper, he draws the ignorant, curious, and hypnotized students to his lessons, where he impresses upon them the need to break free of Gurukulâs restrictive confinements and open their hearts and prostate glands to the power of love. In a metaphorical sense, he encourages the students to accept the changes coursing through their bodies, and let puberty begin to run its course.
To best educate Gurukulâs students, Raj Aryan organises a secret dance ball, inviting over students from a neighbouring womenâs college. Considering the allegorical nature of storytelling in Mohabbatein, the college and its students are likely imaginary, and the secret dance ball is actually an educational musical lesson on some of the more practical and logistical aspects of masturbation. YRF films have always been renowned for making their song-and-dance routines an integral part of the story, and Mohabbatein is no exception to this tradition of artistic excellence. As Gurukulâs students shuffle into the dance ball, Raj Aryan takes the centre stage and croons, âAankhein khuli ho ya ho band/Deedar unka hota hai/Kaise kahoon main o yaara ye/Pyaar kaise hota haiâ, with the lyrics making it clear that while there are many paths to self-pleasure, the path one takes does not matter so long as the destination is the same. With sufficient practice, a master of the art may hone his skills to the point where imagination is all that is required. Meanwhile, the less-skilled are free to keep their eyes open and rely on whatever visual aids they may prefer. Bearing in mind the wide variety of means and techniques employed, it is not for one man to tell another how best to beat his meat.
This educational demonstration, however, is cut short upon the surprise appearance of Narayan Shankar, who discovers Raj Aryan's attempt to arouse Gurukulâs pupils to rebellion against his rules. Shankar uses his authority to turn Raj Aryanâs movement temporarily flaccid, but a defiant Raj Aryan takes up Shankarâs opposition as a challenge, and vows to bring about love in every heart, a cramp in every right hand, and a scraggly hair sprouting from every smooth chin. Raj Aryan begins his campaign by asking Gurukulâs pupils to each write a love letter upon orange maple leaves. The orange maple leaf is a common visual theme throughout the movie, and for good reasonâa maple leaf with its five lobes bears an uncanny resemblance to an outstretched palm with its five fingers, coloured an inflamed red perhaps due to excessive use. Thus, the act of writing a love letter upon an orange maple leaf is a clever visual metaphor for the students actually expressing gratitude and affection towards their own hands for the newly-discovered joys their hands have provided them with.
However, the ever-vigilant Narayan Shankar eventually catches onto Raj Aryanâs actions, and realizes that his fearsome gaze is no longer capable of wilting studentsâ defiant boners. Faced with this prospect, a desperate Shankar begins expelling students, hoping to discourage their peers and Raj Aryan, and therefore stave off the advent of puberty and sexual maturity amongst his wards. This leads to the filmâs climax, wherein a gratuitously dripping-wet Raj Aryan meets Shankar, and defiantly tells him that whilst he may have won the battle, he has lost the war, for despite all his authority, Shankar will be forever left alone, because he lacks the powers of imagination and fantasizing that Raj Aryan possesses. Raj Aryan then reveals to Shankar that despite the death of Megha (Shankarâs daughter, it may be remembered), he still fantasizes about her with perfect clarity. However, as previously mentioned, Shankar had likely reproduced asexually to sire Megha, and asexual reproduction leads to genetically-identical offspring. A horrified Shankar realizes that therefore, by masturbating to Meghaâhis cloneâRaj Aryan has been indirectly masturbating to Shankar himself for the past several years. Left shaken by this discovery of the transitive properties of masturbation, a broken Shankar is unable to recover from his shock and resigns as headmaster of Gurukul, leaving Raj Aryan to take the helm and finally bring about his purpose to a glorious conclusion.
Over two decades after release, Mohabbatein stands alone in Indian cinema. Few films have ever attempted such deftly-layered storytelling in treatment of such delicate subject matter. Indeed, if the bar were ever raised, it was only by YRFâs own other creations in subsequent years. No other films, however, have ever had the courage and wit to portray sex-ed as Mohabbatein so well did, and if the subject shall ever make an appearance in the educational curriculum, there can be no doubt that Mohabbatein shall be required viewing for all students, educators, and educational policymakers.
submitted by AdTrick7283 to bollywoodmemes [link] [comments]
Bollywoodâs roster of adult films is a barren wasteland, dotted by the occasional Tusshar KapooMilap Zaveri release. Yet, there may be hope for the genre as long as trailblazing production house YRF keeps churning out experimental masterpieces. For well before there were Kyaa Kool Hain Hum, Masti, and Ragini MMS, there was Mohabbatein. As on several other occasions, YRF embraced the role of innovator and at the turn of the millennium brought to Bollywood what is till date the industryâs only sex-ed film. Unlike Bollywoodâs other attempts at adult cinema, Mohabbatein seeks to educateânot titillateâas moustachioed maestro Aditya Chopra examines attitudes towards male masturbation, specially amongst adolescents. To avoid offending conservative sensibilities, this sociological examination is cleverly hidden within a family-friendly romantic drama tale and presented in allegorical terms.
Mohabbatein features an ensemble cast, led by Amitabh Bachchan and DDLJ background actor Shah Rukh Khan, with Aishwarya Rai as a guest star. Although the cast also includes celebrated thespians Uday Chopra, Jugal Hansraj, and Shamita Shetty, a complete listing is omitted here for the sake of brevity. Bachchan plays Narayan Shankar, headmaster of the prestigious Gurukul boysâ college. Shankar is a stickler for rules, and imposes upon his students the need for tradition, prestige, and discipline. His rules extend to a blanket ban on romantic relationships, which forms the crux of the filmâs conflict. SRK plays Raj Aryan, a music teacher and disgraced Gurukul alumnus who has returned to the institute under anonymity, with the single goal of melting Shankarâs icy heart and impressing upon him the power of love. Finally, Aishwarya Rai plays the deceased Megha, Shankarâs late daughter and the love interest of Raj Aryan.
In a figurative sense, Gurukulâwith its forced confinement, all-male student body, and rigid rulesâis a portrayal of restrictive societies that enforce adolescent sexual repression through gender segregation and harsh oversight. Narayan Shankar, as headmaster, is the enforcer of said oversight and abides by his oppressive regulations to set an example. Gurukulâs official mottoââParampara Prathishta Anushasanââmay be shortened to âPP Anushasanâ, the word âPPâ being slang for a manâs meat pole of love and âAnushasanâ meaning discipline or regulation. Thus through its motto, the institution reveals its intention to exercise total control over its studentsâ genitalia.
Metaphorically, Narayan Shankarâs rejection of all things romantic/sexual, and his stubborn opposition to any form of changeâstated by him multiple times throughout the filmâis an allusion to his opposition to puberty and the sexual changes it brings along with it. His choice of garments throughout the filmâdull black trousers coupled with matching black sherwanisâprevents viewers from getting a view of his lush curves and adds to his thoroughly sexless demeanour. Additionally, Shankar takes pride in his habit of staring right at the sun for several minutes every morning, which is a clever allusion to the popular myth about masturbation causing damage to eyesightâa lifetime of total abstinence from masturbation has prevented Shankarâs eyes from taking any damage, and therefore he can stare full-bore into the sun for as long as he pleases. Given all this, it is unknown how he fathered a daughter in his state of permanent prepubescence, so it may be deduced that he somehow reproduced asexually. In sum, Shankar is a man struggling to indefinitely delay his own sexual maturity, and thereby desperately clinging on to a simple, childlike innocence of all sexual matters. Raj Aryan exists as the foil to Narayan Shankar, having arrived at Gurukul with the singular purpose of altering Shankarâs stunted outlook towards sexual maturity. In an allegorical sense, he portrays the biological agents and changes that act as messengers of puberty and sexual maturity, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormones and testosterone. Visually, his urbane, well-dressed appearance, along with his suave and cultured manner, stands in contrast to the dull cluelessness of Narayan Shankar and his wards, and is indicative of his sexual confidence and maturity.
Furthermore, his choice of musical instrumentâthe violinâis hardly coincidental. A violin requires precise, well-timed stroke-like movements to be made using a long, cylindrical piece of wood. The sight of Raj Aryan lounging comfortably in a chair and playing the violin with long, languid strokes, whilst wearing an expression of both contentment and pleasurable exertion, is certainly suggestive without appearing crass. The fact that his lover Megha is deceased does not decrease Raj Aryanâs passion in the slightest, as she makes an appearance in his imagination every time he leans back, closes his eyes, and handles his violin. Through such a combination of clever visual double entendres, the film conveys Raj Aryanâs use of masturbation and masturbatory fantasies as a healthy outlet for sexual expression and release.
To Gurukulâs ignorant masses, Raj Aryan is nothing short of a revelation. Like a masturbatory Pied Piper, he draws the ignorant, curious, and hypnotized students to his lessons, where he impresses upon them the need to break free of Gurukulâs restrictive confinements and open their hearts and prostate glands to the power of love. In a metaphorical sense, he encourages the students to accept the changes coursing through their bodies, and let puberty begin to run its course.
To best educate Gurukulâs students, Raj Aryan organises a secret dance ball, inviting over students from a neighbouring womenâs college. Considering the allegorical nature of storytelling in Mohabbatein, the college and its students are likely imaginary, and the secret dance ball is actually an educational musical lesson on some of the more practical and logistical aspects of masturbation. YRF films have always been renowned for making their song-and-dance routines an integral part of the story, and Mohabbatein is no exception to this tradition of artistic excellence. As Gurukulâs students shuffle into the dance ball, Raj Aryan takes the centre stage and croons, âAankhein khuli ho ya ho band/Deedar unka hota hai/Kaise kahoon main o yaara ye/Pyaar kaise hota haiâ, with the lyrics making it clear that while there are many paths to self-pleasure, the path one takes does not matter so long as the destination is the same. With sufficient practice, a master of the art may hone his skills to the point where imagination is all that is required. Meanwhile, the less-skilled are free to keep their eyes open and rely on whatever visual aids they may prefer. Bearing in mind the wide variety of means and techniques employed, it is not for one man to tell another how best to beat his meat.
This educational demonstration, however, is cut short upon the surprise appearance of Narayan Shankar, who discovers Raj Aryan's attempt to arouse Gurukulâs pupils to rebellion against his rules. Shankar uses his authority to turn Raj Aryanâs movement temporarily flaccid, but a defiant Raj Aryan takes up Shankarâs opposition as a challenge, and vows to bring about love in every heart, a cramp in every right hand, and a scraggly hair sprouting from every smooth chin. Raj Aryan begins his campaign by asking Gurukulâs pupils to each write a love letter upon orange maple leaves. The orange maple leaf is a common visual theme throughout the movie, and for good reasonâa maple leaf with its five lobes bears an uncanny resemblance to an outstretched palm with its five fingers, coloured an inflamed red perhaps due to excessive use. Thus, the act of writing a love letter upon an orange maple leaf is a clever visual metaphor for the students actually expressing gratitude and affection towards their own hands for the newly-discovered joys their hands have provided them with.
However, the ever-vigilant Narayan Shankar eventually catches onto Raj Aryanâs actions, and realizes that his fearsome gaze is no longer capable of wilting studentsâ defiant boners. Faced with this prospect, a desperate Shankar begins expelling students, hoping to discourage their peers and Raj Aryan, and therefore stave off the advent of puberty and sexual maturity amongst his wards. This leads to the filmâs climax, wherein a gratuitously dripping-wet Raj Aryan meets Shankar, and defiantly tells him that whilst he may have won the battle, he has lost the war, for despite all his authority, Shankar will be forever left alone, because he lacks the powers of imagination and fantasizing that Raj Aryan possesses. Raj Aryan then reveals to Shankar that despite the death of Megha (Shankarâs daughter, it may be remembered), he still fantasizes about her with perfect clarity. However, as previously mentioned, Shankar had likely reproduced asexually to sire Megha, and asexual reproduction leads to genetically-identical offspring. A horrified Shankar realizes that therefore, by masturbating to Meghaâhis cloneâRaj Aryan has been indirectly masturbating to Shankar himself for the past several years. Left shaken by this discovery of the transitive properties of masturbation, a broken Shankar is unable to recover from his shock and resigns as headmaster of Gurukul, leaving Raj Aryan to take the helm and finally bring about his purpose to a glorious conclusion.
Over two decades after release, Mohabbatein stands alone in Indian cinema. Few films have ever attempted such deftly-layered storytelling in treatment of such delicate subject matter. Indeed, if the bar were ever raised, it was only by YRFâs own other creations in subsequent years. No other films, however, have ever had the courage and wit to portray sex-ed as Mohabbatein so well did, and if the subject shall ever make an appearance in the educational curriculum, there can be no doubt that Mohabbatein shall be required viewing for all students, educators, and educational policymakers.
2024.05.19 09:16 Zestyclose_Heart1166 Crandallâs extreme astroturfing lost them my business
Iâm in the market for a new or refurbished high quality home office chair. So Iâve been learning about this market just over the past several days. My current chair is a Nouhaus ErgoFlip that I bought 4 years ago for $200 (because the arm rests flip up) but itâs terrible now and I need to replace it.
After doing some research, it seemed that refurbished is the way to go since the quality is almost as good as new and itâs 1/2-1/3 the price. Iâm leaning towards getting the Steelcase Leap V2 as it seems to be the best chair you can get for under $600 as per many reviews.
After some more research, the two main competitors for this type of refurbished chair seemed to be BTOD and Crandall. Between the two, Crandall seemed to be a no brainer as they offer thicker seats than the normal Leap which you would think makes it more comfortable than BTOD. I also saw glowing praise of Crandall on this subreddit and on Amazon. So I was very close to buying a refurbished Leap from the Crandall website and paying extra for the thicker back and seat, for around $600. I even made a post about it here a couple days ago. Subsequently, as I was in the process of making a purchase on the Crandall website, I saw an option to purchase a newer refurbished Leap, but couldn't utiiize it. I called Crandall sales to inquire more, but to my surprise, no one picked up the phone during business hours. That's very unusual for a company sales department not to pick up the phone.
This prompted me to hold off and do a bit more digging. I was disturbed by what I found. It started by seeing the âtop critical reviewâ of the Crandall refurbished Leap on their Amazon page (which only displays on a desktop and not my phone):
https://www.amazon.com/product-reviews/B08PPVCCST/ref=cm_cr_unknown?ie=UTF8&reviewerType=all_reviews&filterByStar=two_star&pageNumber=1
The 2 star review with 81 "helpful" votes basically calls Crandall a scam because their foam seating is extremely cheap, breaks down quickly, and IS NOT COVERED by their 12 year warranty. I havenât really seen this highly-upvoted criticism (on Amazon) addressed here.
In fact, as I looked more at this subreddit, it seems Crandall heavily astroturfs this subreddit (and perhaps the Amazon page too) by taking random accounts, temporarily using them to shill for Crandall, and pass themselves off as being disinterested third parties. These accounts then seem to be discarded (barely any subsequent posts after the accounts served their purpose of shilling Crandall in a thread and upvoting other shilling posts). Again, these accounts do not disclose that they are being operated by Crandall employees. In some older threads, the account name says "deleted" for obvious astroturfed posts, so Crandall seems to outright delete their more obvious examples. The owner also appears frequently to present extra legitimacy, which by itself would be fine, but of course as your attention is focused on him, it isnât apparent that his employees are swarming this sub.
This post noticed the pattern 4 years ago and it certainly hasnât gotten any better since I've seen this behavior in many threads made after that. It also seems to be an issue people want to tiptoe around for some reason as it's rarely squarely addressed judging from a search:
https://www.reddit.com/OfficeChairs/comments/gpk9bw/is_it_just_me_or_is_crandall_office_chairs_a/
Maybe Iâm old fashioned, but these highly aggressive and sneaky tactics really rub me the wrong way. Theyâve lost a sale from me. Ironically Crandall employees seem to spend all their time online engaging in these questionable tactics rather than simply answer the phone.
Just from doing my own Google searches I found out about a store called OHR Home Office Solutions thatâs based in the NYC and NJ area but ship all over. They seem to do refurbishments of many top chairs, including the Leap, Gesture, and Herman Miller Aeron, at least at Crandallâs quality, and for a decently cheaper price. I plan on visiting either their warehouse sale or showroom to test out the chairs in person and make a purchase there.
When I searched this subreddit for OHR, almost NOTHING came up. Thatâs really a shame. I dunno if Crandall owns this subreddit or something, but it should be for information, not unmarked advertisements, and I think the worthy alternative of OHR should be discussed more, instead of 50% of posts shilling for Crandall.
Thatâs my two cents anyway, hope this post helps others.
submitted by Zestyclose_Heart1166 to OfficeChairs [link] [comments]
After doing some research, it seemed that refurbished is the way to go since the quality is almost as good as new and itâs 1/2-1/3 the price. Iâm leaning towards getting the Steelcase Leap V2 as it seems to be the best chair you can get for under $600 as per many reviews.
After some more research, the two main competitors for this type of refurbished chair seemed to be BTOD and Crandall. Between the two, Crandall seemed to be a no brainer as they offer thicker seats than the normal Leap which you would think makes it more comfortable than BTOD. I also saw glowing praise of Crandall on this subreddit and on Amazon. So I was very close to buying a refurbished Leap from the Crandall website and paying extra for the thicker back and seat, for around $600. I even made a post about it here a couple days ago. Subsequently, as I was in the process of making a purchase on the Crandall website, I saw an option to purchase a newer refurbished Leap, but couldn't utiiize it. I called Crandall sales to inquire more, but to my surprise, no one picked up the phone during business hours. That's very unusual for a company sales department not to pick up the phone.
This prompted me to hold off and do a bit more digging. I was disturbed by what I found. It started by seeing the âtop critical reviewâ of the Crandall refurbished Leap on their Amazon page (which only displays on a desktop and not my phone):
https://www.amazon.com/product-reviews/B08PPVCCST/ref=cm_cr_unknown?ie=UTF8&reviewerType=all_reviews&filterByStar=two_star&pageNumber=1
The 2 star review with 81 "helpful" votes basically calls Crandall a scam because their foam seating is extremely cheap, breaks down quickly, and IS NOT COVERED by their 12 year warranty. I havenât really seen this highly-upvoted criticism (on Amazon) addressed here.
In fact, as I looked more at this subreddit, it seems Crandall heavily astroturfs this subreddit (and perhaps the Amazon page too) by taking random accounts, temporarily using them to shill for Crandall, and pass themselves off as being disinterested third parties. These accounts then seem to be discarded (barely any subsequent posts after the accounts served their purpose of shilling Crandall in a thread and upvoting other shilling posts). Again, these accounts do not disclose that they are being operated by Crandall employees. In some older threads, the account name says "deleted" for obvious astroturfed posts, so Crandall seems to outright delete their more obvious examples. The owner also appears frequently to present extra legitimacy, which by itself would be fine, but of course as your attention is focused on him, it isnât apparent that his employees are swarming this sub.
This post noticed the pattern 4 years ago and it certainly hasnât gotten any better since I've seen this behavior in many threads made after that. It also seems to be an issue people want to tiptoe around for some reason as it's rarely squarely addressed judging from a search:
https://www.reddit.com/OfficeChairs/comments/gpk9bw/is_it_just_me_or_is_crandall_office_chairs_a/
Maybe Iâm old fashioned, but these highly aggressive and sneaky tactics really rub me the wrong way. Theyâve lost a sale from me. Ironically Crandall employees seem to spend all their time online engaging in these questionable tactics rather than simply answer the phone.
Just from doing my own Google searches I found out about a store called OHR Home Office Solutions thatâs based in the NYC and NJ area but ship all over. They seem to do refurbishments of many top chairs, including the Leap, Gesture, and Herman Miller Aeron, at least at Crandallâs quality, and for a decently cheaper price. I plan on visiting either their warehouse sale or showroom to test out the chairs in person and make a purchase there.
When I searched this subreddit for OHR, almost NOTHING came up. Thatâs really a shame. I dunno if Crandall owns this subreddit or something, but it should be for information, not unmarked advertisements, and I think the worthy alternative of OHR should be discussed more, instead of 50% of posts shilling for Crandall.
Thatâs my two cents anyway, hope this post helps others.
2024.05.19 09:07 wannaBgone (SA WARNING!!) I slept with my sister's ex-husband
I (19F) have been keeping this secret since I was a 12 year old girl. Obviously for confidentiality I'm not saying exact names. So I was 12 years old and in seventh grade I had just recently moved and my sister "ann" (age 26) had just moved in beside us she had also just been recently married to this guy named "Mark" (age 25 or 26). At the time I was deathly afraid of men because a few years earlier I was molested by my older brother. So initially I was afraid of Mark because of that. I had started to want to go over to my sister's since she was next door. For awhile I would just go and have fun. I eventually learned that Mark was a decent guy because he was nice to me. Sometimes he would be too nice. He would smack my butt and tell me I was cute or other things I'm not going to mention yet. At my sisters house they had a garage separate from the house with a side room for storage. Mark had made it into a gaming room for him and his friends. Of course I always wanted to play games on his Xbox since my mother hated video games. So the only place I could play was over there. One day I was in the side room playing Minecraft and I sat on a small stool beside Marks recliner chair. I was focused on building a house and then I feel a hand on my leg. I look at my leg and don't say anything thinking he was just messing around. He then moves his hand down to my privates and whispers in my ear "can I?" Of course being 12 and afraid I didn't say anything because I was frozen in shock. He proceeded to touch me. At the time I had such mixed emotions because I trusted him and I didn't understand because I was molested prior. The thing is that I liked it but I didn't want to like it. He ended up doing the deed while I had no emotion from shock. He took my virginity and I had no say in it. He went on and continued to "grape me" until I was 17. He divorced my sister and I thought I was free. He moved out of my sister's house and would visit because they had a son together. Ok these visits he would tell my mom that I should come "hangout" with him because I'm his "best friend" so my mom would make me go. We would go to the beach with my nephew and he would touch me under the water when his son wasn't looking. Eventually I moved away hoping that was the end. He messaged me the first week I had moved away because before I was 18 I had never had a phone due to my mom. He texted me saying we should meet up. I said no and then he said we were just going out to lunch. I agreed because he offered to pay and I was hungry. So I saw him and his new girlfriend. We ate and then he said he forgot his wallet so I paid 50 for our food. Then he said I should stay with him and his girlfriend the same night. He had driven me and I was scared so I said yes because i didn't know what he would do to me. He ended up doing it again right beside his girlfriend. I ended up going home in the morning and wanting to unalive myself because I couldn't get out of it. I then learned he had moved away shortly after the encounter. He would text me and say vulgar things and I would ignore him. One day he texted me and it said I have a free place for you. I said I'll think about it and he said I have two weeks before the place was gone so I needed to decide. I declined him and told him I wasn't risking my family for him after he "graped me" He told me I liked it and I needed to calm down. I ended up blocking him and no one has ever known I had $ex with him. It's always been "our secret" I've wanted to tell my sister but she would disown me forever. I don't know what to do and there's even more to the story I left out. If my sister ever sees this know that I'm sorry and there's nothing I can do to change what I did but I'm sorry.
submitted by wannaBgone to confessions [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 08:58 Open-Group-4171 Entry level intern architect â where should I go?
What cities or states are best for entry level architects?
I just finished my B. Arch degree, have some internship experience and a very competitive portfolio. Iâm not sure where to look for a job but I know for a fact that Iâm leaving NYC. Everyone left during the pandemic leaving many office buildings empty and I doubt this encourages firms here to take on new entry level candidates.
Are there certain cities or states that have more opportunity for entry level than others? More specifically, where are they simply building more per capita? I know that the post-pandemic âmusical chairsâ market has made cities like Miami and Austin inflated. Is this good or bad for architects? If the bubble bursts, enabled by consistently high interest rates, lower land values enable clients to spend more on architects, but it could also mean a recession where firms lay people off and clients have less capital.
More specifically, Iâm looking to do mostly single family residential at a small/medium boutique firm, ideally with some sustainability or solar component. But I have experience with other building scales as well.
Where should I go?
submitted by Open-Group-4171 to Architects [link] [comments]
I just finished my B. Arch degree, have some internship experience and a very competitive portfolio. Iâm not sure where to look for a job but I know for a fact that Iâm leaving NYC. Everyone left during the pandemic leaving many office buildings empty and I doubt this encourages firms here to take on new entry level candidates.
Are there certain cities or states that have more opportunity for entry level than others? More specifically, where are they simply building more per capita? I know that the post-pandemic âmusical chairsâ market has made cities like Miami and Austin inflated. Is this good or bad for architects? If the bubble bursts, enabled by consistently high interest rates, lower land values enable clients to spend more on architects, but it could also mean a recession where firms lay people off and clients have less capital.
More specifically, Iâm looking to do mostly single family residential at a small/medium boutique firm, ideally with some sustainability or solar component. But I have experience with other building scales as well.
Where should I go?
2024.05.19 08:54 BOfficeStats Domestic BOT Presale Tracking (May 18). Thursday/EA+THU Comps: Furiosa ($4.49M), Garfield ($1.22M/$1.97M), Bad Boys ($3.64M/$5.30M) and Inside Out 2 ($7.66M).
BoxOfficeTheory Presale Tracking
USA Showtimes As of May 17
Presales Data (Google Sheets Link)
BoxOfficeReport Previews
DOMESTIC PRESALES
Furiosa Thursday Comp assuming $5M for keysersoze123: $4.49M
MAY
April 23
April 25
April 27
April 30
May 2
May 4
May 7
May 9
May 11
May 14
May 16
Note: I have removed most tracking data that has not been updated for 2 weeks. I think there is value in keeping data for a week or two but at a certain point they start to lose their value and should not be treated the same as more recent tracking data.
submitted by BOfficeStats to boxoffice [link] [comments]
USA Showtimes As of May 17
Presales Data (Google Sheets Link)
BoxOfficeReport Previews
DOMESTIC PRESALES
Furiosa Thursday Comp assuming $5M for keysersoze123: $4.49M
- abracadabra1998 ($5.46M Thursday comp. GxK obviously really propping the average up but for now I could see that settling at around $5 Million, still good pace! (May 12). Really good stuff in this market (May 9). Reallyyyyyy good day 1 here. I want to note that: NO I do NOT think preview numbers will be that high; it's just highlighting the fact that this is likely a movie that will be running hot in my market, as cinephile blockbusters usually do. Next update I will have T-14 comps, which will be a lot lower due to the short release window (May 8).)
- AniNate (Encouraging to see the weekend fill out a bit. Been seeing a lot of promotion during the basketball playoffs so general awareness has to be getting there now. (May 15). Skimmed through ThuFri and Valley View (Cleveland vicinity) has sold roughly 60 Furiosa tix so far while Tinseltown (Canton) has sold 40. I'm guessing the upfront audience does lean more toward the urban/cosmopolitan sensibilities (May 9). Presales show there's definitely some hype for this. Regal gonna irritate trackers again, offering no upcharge IMAX for Furiosa (May 8).)
- Charlie Jatinder ($3.05M Thursday comp.)
- el sid ($5.8M average Thursday comp (without Exorcist 2) (May 12). Furiosa continues its strong performance in "my" theaters. The movie yesterday had already 1.310 sold tickets (for Thursday, May 23). Up 15% in ca. 24 hours which isn't bad at all after the first rush. Already comfortably in front of The Fall Guy's final sales (it had 1.071 counted on Thursday for Thursday) and almost on par with Civil War's final sales (1.357) and also the Apes finally had not more than 1.657 sold tickets in my theaters (May 11). I also can't complain about Furiosa's presales in my theaters, not at all. Already 1,138 sold tickets (in all of "my" 7 theaters) for May 23. 14 days left. Promising start. Civil War on Thursday of the release week for Thursday had 1,357 sold tickets and The Fall Guy finally had 1,071 sold tickets (May 9).)
- katnisscinnaplex ($3.94M Thursday comp.)
- keysersoze123 (Definitely chugging along. I am feeling good about 5m+ previews (May 15). It has way stronger sales than Garfield and that is expected. I am thinking of 5m previews for now (May 14). I think this is a solid OD presales. With a short PS window its probably looking at 5m+ previews (May 9).)
- TheFlatLannister ($4.71M Thursday comp. Second straight day of weak growth. Not a great sign (May 18). First meh day since presales started (May 17). Keeps climbing at a strong pace (May 11). This continues to grow at an excellent rate (May 10). Really strong day 2. The short presales is for sure a factor (May 9). Not seeing much of a breakout. Still pretty solid start to presales (May 8).)
- vafrow ($3.5M Thursday comp. A bit of a step back today (May 18). It's starting to heat up (May 17). Comps are showing as steady since the last update, but it actually dipped quite a bit this week before rebounding today. Advance ticket buying has been so off in this market recently for some reason. Holding pace with Apes is a good sign (May 16). It had a good day (May 12). Mediocre day 2 (May 10). Not the hottest start. IMAX is the format of choice though, so, ATP will be high (May 9).)
- YM! (Southeast Wisconsin: Pretty solid I guess for Furiosa. Seems that most of it's business is in the Marcus Theaters in Mequon/Waukesha so not really expecting much a diverse showing but there seems to be a fanbase around it. Feel good in everyone's 4.5-5M previews range (May 17).)
- vafrow (Getting a theatrical release up here in Canada, and early signs are that it might get a pretty decent screen count. Not super wide or anything, but a pretty decent amount for a weekend that has a lot of other releases (May 14).)
- abracadabra1998 ($0.72M EA comp and $1.19M Thursday comp. The two comps that are most helpful, Wish and Trolls (not PLF, EA on a weekend, family movies) are both pointing to a lot lower than average, so I'm inclined to give those a lot more weight. I'm thinking $500-600k for EA (May 18). Still not really accelerating, and the EA is falling against comps (May 12). Good EA numbers, but many of these comps were PLF-only EA, which this is not, so I think the ATP will be quite lower and that should be adjusted for (May 9).)
- AniNate (EA screenings are pretty filled to the brim here now for what that's worth. Maybe a surge in family demand will present itself later next week (May 17). EA sales look decent now, but this does feel rather weak compared to the IF presales. Not 100% certain what's going on here but based on this I buy the trades' opening estimates over the forum vibes (May 15). I definitely haven't seen as much of a rush here with Garfield as with IF (May 11).)
- el sid (The very even sales are a good sign (May 7). For Sunday, May 19, I can already report that also in my theaters it looks very good for Garfield. They will for sure add shows soon. It has so far only 1 show/theater and the shows are almost sold out, between 1 and 4 seats are still available. So my guess still is that this movie if it's not totally bad (and first reviews here were quite positive) will become a (big) hit. Seems not much on Thursday but it's a step in the right direction (May 6).)
- katnisscinnaplex ($0.91M EA comp and $1.11M Thursday comp. Lightyear probably the best comp here size-wise for Early Access, probably ends around 750-800k (May 18).)
- keysersoze123 (4 days later. Almost no pace so far. Sunday shows are near sellout and so limited growth. Previews are like 35% of Panda 4 and Friday is under 1/3rd. That said this will under index in MTC1 as Panda also did that. Still struggling to see this as a breakout. Looking at the current state, it looks like half of IF as well !!! Of course that had Reynolds and did not finish that great (May 17). Its definitely weaker than even Elemental. That said these movies tend to finish strong and so I am not writing it off so early. Just that the long PS window is irrelevant for them. They could rather start presales like a week before release and it would be all the same. Meh. We have to wait until next week to gauge where its going to finish. It has very low ATP as well and actual would be even lower as its going to see tons of kids tickets (May 14). Early shows are regular digital shows at 1PM this sunday. So ATP will be very low. I think 500k ish at best. Preview let us see how things go in the final week. Presales at this point are almost non existent (May 13).)
- TheFlatLannister ($2.18M Thursday comp. Not much movement at all in the past week. Probably heading to $2M+ (May 17).)
- vafrow ($0.4M Thursday comp. Comps don't paint a pretty picture though. EA shows are doing okay (May 11). Still no sales for my core sample for previews. But I did the larger sweep, which shows the interest right now is the Sunday early access shows. Looking at sales patterns, it's mainly blocks of 3/4 tickets, so likely families grabbing some. It's worth noting that the May holiday in Canada is the weekend of May 17-20th, not the weekend after with Memorial Day. I can see families prioritizing getting out the holiday weekend when they have more time (May 4).)
- YM! (The combined previews total for Garfield is 35 tickets with 23 tickets coming from EA, which is pretty solid. Still thinking around 2-2.75m previews with EA as while not as widespread, the showings seem like theyâre filling up nicely. Think Garfield does about the same as IF though OW as due to the likely lower ATP Keyser hinted at iirc and seemingly little screen space with no PLFs. Meh, kids animation doesn't really make much notion until the Monday for release and Garfield seems indicative of that. Thinking the 1.5-2M Thursday previews range folks were spitting out makes sense. Nothing screams breakout though and the fact it's getting one screen, maybe two at most for previews makes me feel like OW might be similar to IF (May 17).)
- abracadabra1998 ($3.78M Thursday comp. These numbers are from last Thursday, as per my post this morning. This is a more walk-up movie a la Aquaman or Apes so I think it's a pretty good start (May 18). Pretty good start for it honestly (May 16).)
- katnisscinnaplex ($5.30M EA+Thursday comp.)
- TheFlatLannister ($3.68M Thursday comp. Well, this is a pretty good start (May 17).)
- YM! (Again, another solid start-ish. I expect Bad Boys to have the most diverse audience. Can't really predict much on previews but I am feeling confident in the 55-60m OW range for the past few weeks (May 17).)
- vafrow ($3.45M Thursday comp. Comps are not the greatest. One, surprisingly hard to find a comparable film with similar start on sales. Plus, I think ticket buying patterns have changed pretty drastically in my market over the last few months. There's very little up front sales compared to late 2023. Dune was the exception (May 17).)
- BoxOfficePro (Fathom Events has also announced that select Regal Cinemas will present the films in 4DX on June 22/23/24 for Fellowship/Towers/Return respectively (May 14).)
- katnisscinnaplex (Up to ~1,400 shows now with new locations picking it up and others adding a second showing. LotR1 has sold 831 seats OD, LotR2 sold 715 seats OD, and LotR3 sold 735 seats OD. For comparison, Phantom Menace didn't break 800 tickets until T-3 and we're still over a month out. JW3 comp is currently around 9m (it was at 1,670 tickets sold at this point!) (May 6).)
- abracadabra1998 ($3.67M Thursday comp. Holy numbers of shows and seats! Multiplexes are really expecting a lot here. Sales off the bat not amazing here sadly, but we shall see where it goes (May 15).)
- AniNate (It is encouraging that Canton is already giving me something to work with with 12 Thursday preview sales. Same number for Fri-Sun. I do see nine sales for first Thursday at Canton now and I think that's a pretty solid start (May 15).)
- charlie Jatinder ($11.37M Thursday comp at MTC2.)
- katnisscinnaplex ($6.21M Thursday comp. Early sales just haven't been there lately except for the extreme fans. $12.27M Mario comp (May 18). Already at 180 shows for previews in my areas and still has a few theaters left to post. For comparison, Godzilla x Kong finished with 197, Kingdom of Apes 190, and Kung Fu Panda 205 (May 14).)
- keysersoze123 (At least the show counts show Plexes are expecting a big OW. I dont remember when we last had a animation movie start with so many shows. I wont count Mario as that was a fan driven movie. Definitely not great presales but this is not a fan driven movie. Let us see where things are in the final week (May 15). Too early to judge presales as ticket sales just started early this morning. Families dont book tickets on weekday mornings. Wait until evening today to judge it. From a release perspective its way bigger than all animation movies seen recently including Panda 4. Easily the biggest I have seen in a long time. Only movie which is not comparable is Mario but that was not just a family flick (May 14).)
- Porthos (VERY BAD COMPS: $8.06M Thursday comp. What a strange pre-sale pattern. Threw in Shazam 2 and Barbie simply due to having nothing suitable at T-27, and I wanted something that was backloaded in pre-sales. Was prepared to make a smart-aleck comment about the unsuitability of the pre-sale pattern of Barbie, but after today's update... Okay, yeah. Still no. But what a weird pattern. Was there some sort of promo that dropped today that I'm not aware of? Either way, just a great day (for this type of movie at this point in pre-sales) (May 17). Fairly strong day today, actually. Was concentrated at a couple of theaters (including a small group sale at one showing), but still, sales are sales (May 16). I really do not have good comps for this movie. Like, at all. Especially for D1. With that in mind, I did some digging and did manage to get the Elemental D1 numbers out of the old Tracking thread: IO2 = 5.45946x Elemental on D1 [13.10m]. Now will Inside Out 2 be as backloaded as Elemental? Well it's tough to literally sell 5.5x times the amount of tickets on the final couple of days that Elemental did, so perhaps not. But it does show how fracking backloaded purely kids animation is. Anyway, this is 30 days out and it isn't a CBM film (like AtSV) or CBM-adjacent film (like Incredibles 2). The Sonic 2 comp is perhaps a little concerning. On the other hand, nearly a weeks more of pre-sales so not exactly a great comp. 3.5% of presales are 3D and 40.1% are PLF (May 15). On the Saturday of release weekend (ie NOT EA) there is a special event screening for IO2: INSIDE OUT 2: FUNKO FAMILY EVENT! (2024) Sat June 15th. Might boost the OW slightly, depending on how wide this event is and how much more these tickets will presumably cost (May 11).)
- TheFlatLannister ($8.97M Thursday comp. Definitely the biggest rollout in showings since I've started tracking Florida. Bigger than even Dune 2 and it's only T-26 (May 18). This is a super super strong day 2. Probably just Orlando overindexing, but yeah starting to lean towards something big brewing. Florida presales are somehow even crazier. Sold 2357 seats and is getting a blockbuster rollout in terms of showing allocations. Kung Fu panda comp day 2: gives me $8.50M (May 15). Well, I can't really tell if this is a breakout or not yet. Looks very good especially in the first few hours. These are probably terrible comps, but might as well try something (May 14).)
- TwoMisfits (I'm kinda shocked at the opening set from my Cinemarks... 2 screens (1 PLF, 1 not) and 6 showings at my PLF 14 for Thursday (and 11 showings on the same screens once it runs full day - 7 PLF b/c 1 is 3d on the reg screen, 4 not)... 3 screens (.75 3d, 2.25 not) and 9 showings at the non-PLF 12 for Thursday (and 12 showings on 2.25 screens once it runs full day)... So, 2 and 2.25 screens for the weekend presale sets... Disney must be charging a huge % for themselves b/c this is an Elemental opening set at my PLF...a little more generous for Thursday at my non-PLF, but then they too drop to an Elemental opening set after the adult Disney base Thursday rush... (May 14).)
- vafrow (No new sales. Whatever glitches in the system on day 1 didn't push sales to day 2. I still think the lack of base ticket options will push families to wait. Cineplex has jacked up the cost of premium formats, plus they're throwing in an increase for opening weekend of major releases. It adds up quickly for families (May 16). With the site glitching yesterday, it might account for the slow start. But, what's interesting is the format breakdown. Nothing is being made available in anything close to a regular showtime. The one non 3D showing in Dolby is a matinee showing. Everything else is carrying a hefty premium. They'll likely release regular showtimes closer to release, but right now, it's priced to get eager fans to pay the premium formats (May 15).)
- YM! (Seems IO2 is playing more like a kid's animation than a family event in start of presales. However, it is pretty solid for what it is. Do not have comparisons for anything but I like that Majestic is healthy and it about 66% of Garfield T-6. Thinking anywhere from 75m-100m OW rn but can change as we go along (May 17). In fairness it's only been an hour but yeah sales are softer than I expected. However, it is a month out and will largely skew more towards kids than say TLM/Across so wasn't expecting a blitz like them. Here at Marcus theaters are going all out for IO2 with it having the lion share of PLFs with it getting both screens when there is two PLFs with tentpole like levels of screens (May 14). Was taking a look at Marcus Cinemas to see that they have preloaded Inside Out 2 showtimes which seem to start at 3:00 pm on a Thursday. It seems like Marcus is going all out on it as judging from showtimes it's taking away all of Bad Boysâ PLFs in that theaters that have two+ PLFs are giving all to IO2 (May 11).)
- keysersoze123 (Only number that matters is OD presales. after few days it will hit a trough and then it will plod along until social media reactions and reviews hit close to release. I think we can kind of predict its OW after its OD presales (May 18). RESPONSE TO PORTHOS: Captain Marvel had very strong sales on its OD despite early start. So OD is all about fans. It does not matter if you start 2 weeks before or 9 weeks. They will still book. So it would be interesting to compare OD sales not only with CM for @Porthos but also the big openers in 2022/23 period from MTC perspective. 1) DS2 - 230k ish. 2) Thor 4 - 136k ish. 3) Wakanda - 110k. 4) Ant 3 - 88K. 5) Guardians 3 - 70k ish. I wonder where Deadpool 3 will land. Anything is fine as long as it does pull in a Marvels (May 17).)
- Porthos (No point of comparison for a movie starting presales this early (60+ days before release). Only MCU entry which comes close was Captain Marvel back in Jan of 2019 (T-58 start date). Aside from that, the only other Disney release would be TROS starting at T-59. This is gonna be the longest pre-sale window for a major Disney release since The Last Jedi all the way back in 2017 (which looks to be around 70 days if a cursory check of when tickets went on sale is correct). Hell, it's gonna be the longest major release of any studio since Fast X's execrable 99 day pre-sale window. Have had some that came close-ish, but probably the most on-point recent comparison will be Jurassic World 3's 43 day pre-sale window, which is still over three weeks shorter than this one. I mention this because the sheer length of the pre-sale window will very likely depress the D1/D2/D3 sales somewhat. Maybe not much, but you can't tell me there'd be no difference between a T-21 launch, a T-29 launch, a T-35 launch and a T-65 launch. Sure, it's a matter of smaller degrees when comparing something like a BP2 (starting at T-38), but that extra month is probably gonna slice some numbers off the top of the pile, especially after the first day (May 17).)
MAY
- (May 19) Review Embargo Lifts [Garfield 9 PM EST]
- (May 20) Presales Start [Deadpool and Wolverine (9 AM EST)]
- (May 20) Opening Day [Monday: Spider-Man Homecoming Re-Release]
- (May 22) Presales Start [The Watchers]
- (May 23) Presales Start [Summer Camp]
- (May 23) Thursday Previews [Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga + Hit Man + The Garfield Movie + Sight]
- (May 26) Presales Start [Bikeriders]
- (May 27) Opening Day [Monday: Spider-Man Far From Home Re-Release]
- (May 30) Presales Start [A Quiet Place: Day One]
- (May 30) Thursday Previews [Ezra + Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle + Summer Camp + Robot Dreams]
- (June 3) Opening Day [Monday: Spider-Man No Way Home Re-Release]
- (June 5) Presales Start [Despicable Me 4]
- (June 6) Presales Start [Twisters]
- (June 6) Thursday Previews [Bad Boys: Ride or Die + The Watchers]
- (June 8) 1-Saturday Re-Release (1st day) [The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Extended Edition]
- (June 9) 1-Sunday Re-Release (1st day) [The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Extended Edition]
- (June 10) 1-Monday Re-Release (1st day) [The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Extended Edition]
- (June 13) Thursday Previews [Inside Out 2]
- (June 15) 1-Saturday Re-Release (2nd day) [The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Extended Edition]
- (June 16) 1-Sunday Re-Release (2nd day) [The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Extended Edition]
- (June 17) 1-Monday Re-Release (2nd day) [The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Extended Edition]
- (June 20) Thursday Previews [The Bikeriders + Janet Planet]
- (June 27) Thursday Previews [Blue Lock The Movie -Episode Nagi- + Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1 + A Quiet Place: Day One]
- (July 1) Presales Start [Longlegs]
- (July 2) Opening Day [Wednesday: Despicable Me 4]
- (July 4) Opening Day [Thursday: Possum Trot]
- (July 4) Thursday Previews [MaXXXine]
- (July 11) Thursday Previews [Fly Me to the Moon + Untitled New Line Horror movie]
- (July 18) Thursday Previews [Twisters]
- (July 25) Thursday Previews [Deadpool and Wolverine + Didi + Fabulous Four]
- (July 29) Presales Start [Alien: Romulus]
- (August 1) Thursday Previews [Harold and the Purple Crayon]
- (August 8) Thursday Previews [Borderlands + Colleen Hooverâs It Ends With Us + Cuckoo + The Fire Inside + Trap]
- (August 15) Thursday Previews [Alien: Romulus + Horizon An American Saga Chapter 2 + Ryanâs World the Movie: Titan Universe Adventure]
- (August 22) Thursday Previews [Blink Twice + The Crow + The Forge + Slingshot]
- (August 29) Thursday Previews [City of Dreams + Reagan + They Listen]
April 23
April 25
April 27
April 30
May 2
May 4
May 7
May 9
May 11
May 14
May 16
Note: I have removed most tracking data that has not been updated for 2 weeks. I think there is value in keeping data for a week or two but at a certain point they start to lose their value and should not be treated the same as more recent tracking data.
2024.05.19 08:48 meowzzz4352 Thoughts on my Symptoms
Now that I discovered this community I am pretty confident what is happening to me is all tied back to this lovely little jaw muscle. I see my GP Monday 8am . Hoping for any advice - better details - corrections on my wrong assumptions or statements and ultimately a little reassurance and validation from yall , That what is happening to me right now is all connected and I am not crazy.
10 months ago I had my last 2 upper molars pulled the "ol fashioned" way with the wiggling and the tugging and the ripping and the "Okay now you're going to feel a bit of pressure" followed by the feeling that your jaw is in fact being ripped out of your mouth.
Things started mild 6 months ago intensified around the 3 month mark and now these last 3 weeks I can barely function. I feel the definition of "Malaise" hits perfect. I'm afraid to leave my house the head pain / brain fog has me feeling like I could blackout any second, And the whoosh / vertigo / world spins has me terrified of driving.
So here is what I'm feeling in order of how they hit , everything is on the left side if that matters
Shoulder Blade - Everything is felt along the bottom of the blade.
Jolt of fire and burning on the skin -- A tearing and ripping under the skin on the muscle - Starts to vibrate a tingling fire sensation outward in a semi circle
When I put my tens unit on there the flexing caused pain on the top of shoulder and collarbone.
Always strongest when I lift or carry, random bursts when I'm sitting doing nothing and now even the weight of my phone sends it to 11
Muscles Weakness and Tremors
When the blade pain is bad, I can barely grip anything with my hand, Hands tremble and different arm muscles randomly will twitch and flex.
My jaw is now (2 weeks) shivering / chittering (IDK wtf it is) as if im cold. Digging my fingers into the facial knots will stop it. Always hits when I first get out of bed, then a few times during the day no pattern in the trigger
Eyes/Ears
Couldn't keep my contacts in more than half day , left only felt cloudy hazy blurry - They are brand new lenses and Ive been use the good "eye juice" with no changes. Tried yesterday had to take em out within an hour.
Sharp twinge zap inside the ear - cold trickling sensation down the canal - ends with a punch of pain behind ear on the thick neck tendon
The Whoosh (Is this brain fog? Something else?) Zap / Jolt of electricity on top of my brain but under my skull - The whoosh when i see everything spin a 360 for a second - And ends with me "off kilter' for minutes to hours, As if there is a delay between what my eye sees to when my brain processes. During the spell ill feel "wonky" "Out of body" "tunnelly vision"
The Exploding Head
Its a constant feeling / sensation that my head is filling with sludge.
Forehead & eye have waves of intense dull aches, This part is killing so bad right now, even with NSAIDS it never stops having pressure just relieves it slightly. When it kicks hard and throbs my eyes go really fuzzy and that im going to blackout feeling hits. I have not actually passed or blacked out thank god - my cats would eat me alive in a day -
Jaw/ cheek & gums are twitchy with tightness/fullness and pointy pain shockwaves. The M in the TMJ is a ball of rubberbands and it is so very tender. My face does not appear to have anything swelling outwards from here but poking around in there i find tons of lumps I can break up.. Opening and closing i have full range I think and right now no popping or pains when i do. The area by my ear where the bones connect is so tender, but I dont feel lumps much here. I feel such relief when I hit here with my point tool.
Side of my Neck has small mushy lumps just under the skin and some big daddies deeper in and these ones get stabbyy pains that pulse with my heart.
Back of my neck the bottom half is gravel I can break up pretty easy but I think 3 more come back in their place.
Base of skull I have golf balls burried deep,. They dont throb but when I rub them it is painful but in the best way because I feel such release everywhere else but then they hurt for days. When I rub them to hard and deep oh man sore for days.
All this ends at my upper back and this area is awful. It burns on the surface level 24/7. Icy hot tricks my brain for about and hour. I did some scraping massage here and it sounded like rice krispies and I think hese are adhesions vs knots. .Deeper is full of thick knots, I have the trigger point hook to dig in there and sometimes magic happens and the ache everywhere else gets better for a bit.
The floating bone
It was mild discomfort, odd feelings of tightness inside my actual throat, tingles and a dry feel. It started wiggling around on its own pretty often and when I felt that first water balloon pop inside yikes I was scared AF. Now it just moves whenever it wants. I barely touch it and it "shoots" to the other side. Massaging in here hurts so GOOD! Looking all the way up and feeling from chin towards throat I have many bumps all different sizes. And lastly when I move my head certain ways it feels as if there is a leak happening and almost mucus-y like I could cough but usually dont need to
If you are still with me many apologies this got longer than I thought it would. Today has been my worst day so far, all the pains I mentioned are now hitting at once. Today I was sitting here sobbing in pain it because I was at 13 / 10 and wouldn't ease no matter what I pressed on . 3 Naproxen with 3 ibuprofen gives me about 3 hours of refief right now. I know posture is a part of my pain levels and ive aready ordered some tools so I can correct.
submitted by meowzzz4352 to TMJ [link] [comments]
10 months ago I had my last 2 upper molars pulled the "ol fashioned" way with the wiggling and the tugging and the ripping and the "Okay now you're going to feel a bit of pressure" followed by the feeling that your jaw is in fact being ripped out of your mouth.
Things started mild 6 months ago intensified around the 3 month mark and now these last 3 weeks I can barely function. I feel the definition of "Malaise" hits perfect. I'm afraid to leave my house the head pain / brain fog has me feeling like I could blackout any second, And the whoosh / vertigo / world spins has me terrified of driving.
So here is what I'm feeling in order of how they hit , everything is on the left side if that matters
Shoulder Blade - Everything is felt along the bottom of the blade.
Jolt of fire and burning on the skin -- A tearing and ripping under the skin on the muscle - Starts to vibrate a tingling fire sensation outward in a semi circle
When I put my tens unit on there the flexing caused pain on the top of shoulder and collarbone.
Always strongest when I lift or carry, random bursts when I'm sitting doing nothing and now even the weight of my phone sends it to 11
Muscles Weakness and Tremors
When the blade pain is bad, I can barely grip anything with my hand, Hands tremble and different arm muscles randomly will twitch and flex.
My jaw is now (2 weeks) shivering / chittering (IDK wtf it is) as if im cold. Digging my fingers into the facial knots will stop it. Always hits when I first get out of bed, then a few times during the day no pattern in the trigger
Eyes/Ears
Couldn't keep my contacts in more than half day , left only felt cloudy hazy blurry - They are brand new lenses and Ive been use the good "eye juice" with no changes. Tried yesterday had to take em out within an hour.
Sharp twinge zap inside the ear - cold trickling sensation down the canal - ends with a punch of pain behind ear on the thick neck tendon
The Whoosh (Is this brain fog? Something else?) Zap / Jolt of electricity on top of my brain but under my skull - The whoosh when i see everything spin a 360 for a second - And ends with me "off kilter' for minutes to hours, As if there is a delay between what my eye sees to when my brain processes. During the spell ill feel "wonky" "Out of body" "tunnelly vision"
The Exploding Head
Its a constant feeling / sensation that my head is filling with sludge.
Forehead & eye have waves of intense dull aches, This part is killing so bad right now, even with NSAIDS it never stops having pressure just relieves it slightly. When it kicks hard and throbs my eyes go really fuzzy and that im going to blackout feeling hits. I have not actually passed or blacked out thank god - my cats would eat me alive in a day -
Jaw/ cheek & gums are twitchy with tightness/fullness and pointy pain shockwaves. The M in the TMJ is a ball of rubberbands and it is so very tender. My face does not appear to have anything swelling outwards from here but poking around in there i find tons of lumps I can break up.. Opening and closing i have full range I think and right now no popping or pains when i do. The area by my ear where the bones connect is so tender, but I dont feel lumps much here. I feel such relief when I hit here with my point tool.
Side of my Neck has small mushy lumps just under the skin and some big daddies deeper in and these ones get stabbyy pains that pulse with my heart.
Back of my neck the bottom half is gravel I can break up pretty easy but I think 3 more come back in their place.
Base of skull I have golf balls burried deep,. They dont throb but when I rub them it is painful but in the best way because I feel such release everywhere else but then they hurt for days. When I rub them to hard and deep oh man sore for days.
All this ends at my upper back and this area is awful. It burns on the surface level 24/7. Icy hot tricks my brain for about and hour. I did some scraping massage here and it sounded like rice krispies and I think hese are adhesions vs knots. .Deeper is full of thick knots, I have the trigger point hook to dig in there and sometimes magic happens and the ache everywhere else gets better for a bit.
The floating bone
It was mild discomfort, odd feelings of tightness inside my actual throat, tingles and a dry feel. It started wiggling around on its own pretty often and when I felt that first water balloon pop inside yikes I was scared AF. Now it just moves whenever it wants. I barely touch it and it "shoots" to the other side. Massaging in here hurts so GOOD! Looking all the way up and feeling from chin towards throat I have many bumps all different sizes. And lastly when I move my head certain ways it feels as if there is a leak happening and almost mucus-y like I could cough but usually dont need to
If you are still with me many apologies this got longer than I thought it would. Today has been my worst day so far, all the pains I mentioned are now hitting at once. Today I was sitting here sobbing in pain it because I was at 13 / 10 and wouldn't ease no matter what I pressed on . 3 Naproxen with 3 ibuprofen gives me about 3 hours of refief right now. I know posture is a part of my pain levels and ive aready ordered some tools so I can correct.
2024.05.19 08:48 DogsAteChildren You Were My Best Friend
From me to anyone who might want to, maybe need to, hear it. I share only as an experience that helps me every day.
My name is Joe and I am an Alcoholic. Today I am sober.
You were my best friend. Maybe one day Iâll remember you fondly, becauseâŚ. You were my best friend. I can never allow myself to forget you... You were always there for me. And I was always there to lift your spirits. You were my best friend. You spoke for me when I couldnât. You taught me so much. You pushed my every limit. I trusted you with everything. You were my best fucking friend... And you broke my fucking heart... So I will never forget you. But weâll be damned if I ever forgive us.
But I understand now that forgiveness is something youâd never want from me. Never need. You are a different breed of monster than me. I envied you, even thought I could be your equal. How wrong I was.
I was your best friend. You opened up for me as easily as I could spill my souls out to you. I was your best friend. Together we could never be truly alone. I really, really wanted to believe I was your best friend. You shared my dreams and hopes and fears every step of the way. You betrayed me and I let you. I practically begged you to. And I thought we were friends.
Maybe one day, it will all be better. You will have new best friends. Like you always do. I will find the ones I lost along the way. Like Iâve always wanted to. But you sure made me feel special when we were together. When I was down, you were right there with me. When I was high, you were you were right there with me.
You were my best man. My lover. My nemesis. My drive. My catalyst for change. I let you become everything to me. And I know now you never asked to be any of those things. But you were there for me anyway because friends just do that kind of thing, wrong or right.
You are my best friend. I see that now that I show you the respect you deserve. I am weak. You are strong, cunning, baffling and wise beyond my years. You are to be feared, not frolicked with.
You have taught me so very much and for that I paid dearly. Thank you old friend. For the good and the bad.
As all things must do, here that friendship ends and we part ways.
Signed Yours Truly, -A Dear Old Friend
submitted by DogsAteChildren to alcoholicsanonymous [link] [comments]
My name is Joe and I am an Alcoholic. Today I am sober.
You were my best friend. Maybe one day Iâll remember you fondly, becauseâŚ. You were my best friend. I can never allow myself to forget you... You were always there for me. And I was always there to lift your spirits. You were my best friend. You spoke for me when I couldnât. You taught me so much. You pushed my every limit. I trusted you with everything. You were my best fucking friend... And you broke my fucking heart... So I will never forget you. But weâll be damned if I ever forgive us.
But I understand now that forgiveness is something youâd never want from me. Never need. You are a different breed of monster than me. I envied you, even thought I could be your equal. How wrong I was.
I was your best friend. You opened up for me as easily as I could spill my souls out to you. I was your best friend. Together we could never be truly alone. I really, really wanted to believe I was your best friend. You shared my dreams and hopes and fears every step of the way. You betrayed me and I let you. I practically begged you to. And I thought we were friends.
Maybe one day, it will all be better. You will have new best friends. Like you always do. I will find the ones I lost along the way. Like Iâve always wanted to. But you sure made me feel special when we were together. When I was down, you were right there with me. When I was high, you were you were right there with me.
You were my best man. My lover. My nemesis. My drive. My catalyst for change. I let you become everything to me. And I know now you never asked to be any of those things. But you were there for me anyway because friends just do that kind of thing, wrong or right.
You are my best friend. I see that now that I show you the respect you deserve. I am weak. You are strong, cunning, baffling and wise beyond my years. You are to be feared, not frolicked with.
You have taught me so very much and for that I paid dearly. Thank you old friend. For the good and the bad.
As all things must do, here that friendship ends and we part ways.
Signed Yours Truly, -A Dear Old Friend
2024.05.19 08:48 Significant-Tower146 Best Car Window Shades
 | submitted by Significant-Tower146 to u/Significant-Tower146 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/ekwhzb04yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fb7613e33998f25cb9a4781cd4710885b2844dac Welcome to our guide on the best car window shades to keep the sun at bay and protect you and your family from harmful UV rays during your journeys. Discover the latest trends and designs in car window shades that cater to various vehicle models, including sedans and SUVs. Dive into the article to find the perfect fit for your ride, ensuring a comfortable and safe driving experience for all. The Top 11 Best Car Window Shades
ReviewsđSafeFit Safetemp Car Window Shades (2-Pack)https://preview.redd.it/jzykicg4yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6f2ae9f9205619cad854d8e9836f69c200e8f32b I recently had the opportunity to use the SafeFit Safetemp Car Sun Shades, and I can confidently say that they've been a game-changer when it comes to driving with my little one. As a mom who's always on the go, I'm constantly looking for ways to keep my baby comfortable and protected in the car, and these sun shades do just that. One of my favorite features is the easy one-push retract button. It allows me to quickly roll up the shades when we're not using them, which is perfect for those days when the sun decides to disappear mid-afternoon. Additionally, the patented White Hot system that turns white when it's too hot in the car is a brilliant safety feature that gives me peace of mind. However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. Some users mentioned that these sun shades are not 100% sun-blocking, and they don't fit full width of certain car windows. Nonetheless, I still find them to be a valuable addition to my car, especially when it's hot outside and I need to protect my baby's skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays. In conclusion, the SafeFit Safetemp Car Sun Shades are a must-have for any parent looking to keep their little one safe and comfortable while on the road. Despite a few minor cons, the overall experience with these sun shades has been positive, and I would highly recommend them to fellow parents. đFashionable Palm Tree Windshield Sun Shade for Cars, SUVs, and Truckshttps://preview.redd.it/t8z3ucp4yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=685e6e71926b9091d4edd694438ff6ba4debc7a8 The Auto Drive 2 Count Palm Tree Sunset Universal Twist Sun Shade has been a game-changer in keeping my cars cool and comfy, especially during the scorching summer months. As someone who loves the outdoors and spends a lot of time in the car, I can confidently say this product has made a world of difference. The vibrant tropical print is not only visually appealing but also offers effective protection against UV rays, ensuring my car's interior stays damage-free. Another standout feature is the twist shape which allows for easy storage, fitting perfectly in the trunk or backseat. However, there's one issue that I noticed with this product. It doesn't fit every car perfectly due to its universal size. While it works great for my SUV and other larger vehicles, it doesn't cover the entire windshield in smaller cars like the Ford Focus. Despite this minor inconvenience, I would highly recommend the Auto Drive 2 Count Palm Tree Sunset Universal Twist Sun Shade to anyone looking to keep their vehicle cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. đ2019 Ford F-150 SuperCab Full Vehicle TechShadehttps://preview.redd.it/rljfaq25yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0a62bbb74dc039986429ebe51df940070ea82f92 I recently got the WeatherTech TechShade Full Vehicle Kit for my car, and I must say, it's truly a game-changer. Living in a hot climate, keeping my car cool has always been a challenge. But with these shades, it's become a lot easier. Firstly, the shades are custom-fit, which means they perfectly match the dimensions of my vehicle's windows. This feature is particularly useful because it ensures that no sunlight can sneak in through any gaps. The shades also stay snug in each window opening, which is a testament to their quality. And when I need to use the car, I can easily roll them up and store them using the convenient hook and loop strap. Another aspect I appreciate is the foam core feature. It makes the shades easy to handle and gives them a sturdy fit. Plus, it prevents them from rattling when the car is in motion. However, there is one drawback. The shades are quite bulky when rolled up, which can be an issue if you don't have much storage space. But overall, I'm extremely satisfied with my purchase. It's definitely worth the investment, especially if you live in a hot climate like me. đCar Sunshade for Style and Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/r55uxbl5yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7f6abb366e918ba80e37b93713744541a60f448c I recently got the Genuine Dickies Classic Accordion Universal Black Sport Sunshade, and I have to say it's been a game-changer for my vehicle. Not only does it protect my car interior from harmful UV rays, but it also helps keep my vehicle surface temperature 44âF/25âC cooler on those hot summer days. One of the things that really stood out to me about this sunshade is its retro design. The black sun-deflecting background with black vegan leather accents and white stitching give it a classic, yet sporty look. It's definitely a step up from the flimsy sunshades I've used in the past. The sunshade is made of high-quality materials and has a sturdy construction. It unfolds easily and secures in place by your windshield visors. What's really convenient is that it comes with its own closure strap, making storage a breeze. However, it's worth noting that the sunshade may not fit perfectly in all types of vehicles. As mentioned in some reviews, it might be too large for some cars or SUVs. Therefore, it's crucial to measure your windshield before purchasing to ensure the best fit. Overall, I'm highly impressed with the Genuine Dickies Classic Accordion Universal Black Sport Sunshade. It's well-constructed, looks great, and offers excellent protection against the sun's rays. While it may not be a perfect fit for every vehicle, it's definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a sunshade. đBrica Stretch-to-Fit Sun Shade for Carshttps://preview.redd.it/4yovm0u5yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0252909048d5d9f96d50e20a0a113b60dc55bafa Stay protected from glare with the Brica Stretch to Fit Sun Shade, a top-notch travel companion for your car. The Safe-View Mesh feature ensures that your view is unobstructed while keeping harmful UV-A and UV-B rays at bay. It's designed with new and improved suction cup attachments that provide a secure grip on any car window. One feature that really wins me over is its ability to stretch up to nearly double the size, fitting perfectly on any side or rear car window. Plus, it comes with snaps along the perimeter that help in tailoring the shade to any window shape and size. The material used in this sunshade is premium, keeping it durable and functional for long car rides, especially with little ones in tow. Its visual appeal complements the interiors of your vehicle while offering superior sun protection. I would highly recommend this sunshade, especially for families with large windows in their cars such as SUVs, trucks, and minivans. It's great for those who want to keep the sun off while still maintaining a clear view from the car. However, do ensure to clean the window thoroughly before installation for maximum grip. In my experience, one minor issue was the need to readjust the suction cups occasionally, but this was easily manageable. Overall, the Brica Stretch to Fit Sun Shade has been a reliable and efficient addition to my car, providing a comfortable ride for all my passengers. Considering both pros and cons, this sunshade is definitely worth a try, especially if you prioritize safety and comfort on long car journeys. đDurable Car Sunshade Umbrella for Protecting and Coolinghttps://preview.redd.it/iceume86yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=63c27bd12ddf80182ff2b665b96d496c9043b698 I recently purchased Jasvic's Car Windshield Sun Shade Umbrella to protect my car from the harsh summer heat. This umbrella-shaped sunshade folds up like an umbrella, making it incredibly convenient to store in my car. I was a bit hesitant about using this design initially, being more familiar with the traditional folding shades, but its compactness and ease of installation quickly won me over. The sturdy high-hardness steel frame adds a strong sense of durability to the sunshade, providing protection against UV rays, heat, snow, and fog. This ensures that my car remains safe and undamaged throughout the changing seasons. I also appreciate how it creates a comfortable, cool driving environment while also shielding my car's electronics and seats from sun damage. Unfolding the sunshade and fitting it into the windshield is a breeze. However, I did learn the hard way that proper maneuvering is necessary to prevent scratches on my car's dashboard. Overall, this product stands out for its durability, versatility, and convenience, making it a must-have for anyone looking to protect their car and enhance their driving experience. đWeatherTech TechShade Full Vehicle Kit for 2019 Ford F-150 SuperCab (Silver & Black)https://preview.redd.it/kjvx4fn6yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d04fceee8b442ca14293b841acd17aff6d189671 I recently got my hands on the WeatherTech TechShade Full Vehicle Kit, and I must say, it's been a game-changer for my sun protection needs. The highlight of this product is its ability to keep the entire vehicle cooler by blocking out the sun's rays. Before I installed these, I used to dread getting into my car on a hot day. The interior would be sweltering, and it took ages for the air conditioning to cool everything down. But with the TechShade Full Vehicle Kit, my car stays significantly cooler. In fact, it feels much more bearable to get in and out of my vehicle now. Another feature that I absolutely love about this product is how custom-fit it is. When properly installed, each piece fits snugly in the window openings of my vehicle. This ensures that no light or heat is seeping in from the sides, which is exactly what I wanted. However, there is one part of the installation process that could use some improvement. The front windshield piece tends to sag a little, especially if you have a tinted windshield. Thankfully, this isn't a deal-breaker for me, but it would be nice to see this aspect of the design refined in future models. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase of the WeatherTech TechShade Full Vehicle Kit. It's definitely worth the investment if you want to keep your vehicle cool and protected from the harmful effects of the sun. đTechShade Windshield Sun Shade for 2019 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cabhttps://preview.redd.it/m8s8hqw6yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cd43fd83536fe3b7c371554e52fff3a3dd18f1cb The TechShade Full Vehicle Kit has been a game-changer for me during those sweltering summer days and chilly winters. I love how this custom-fit sunshade can be easily installed on my windshield and windows, keeping my car's interior cool and protected from the harsh sun. The dual-purpose design of the TechShade really stands out - it absorbs heat in the winter to help keep my car warm and defrost the windshield, while also reflecting sunlight in the summer to prevent my steering wheel and dashboard from getting scalding hot. One particular highlight of this product is its effortless storage. When it's not in use, I can simply roll up the shades and secure them with a strap. The only downside I've encountered is that the full vehicle kit is limited to select vehicles, which might be disappointing for some users. Overall, I have had a great experience with the WeatherTech TechShade Full Vehicle Kit. It's a little pricey, but it's definitely worth the investment for the quality, convenience, and protection it provides for my vehicle. đEasy-to-Apply Twirl Motion Car Window Sun Shade Shieldhttps://preview.redd.it/vzl4gzc7yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bb6f56d3d5741c6f8e469770b2566654c47aa316 As an avid car user, I've always struggled with the harsh midday sun blaring into my car's windows, making it unbearable to drive. That was until I discovered the TFY Car Window Sun Shade Protector Shine Blocker. This little gadget is a game-changer, as it effortlessly blocks glare, heat, and damaging sunlight from infiltrating my car doors' side windows. The best part? It's as easy as twirling to fold or unfold it when needed! The lightweight design is perfect for use on both front and rear door windows, without compromising visibility. I never imagined that a mesh fabric can do such wonders for allowing a clear view of the outside world while keeping the sun's harmful rays away. However, the size of these sunshades can be inconsistent, as some might find them too small, especially for larger vehicles. Another minor issue is that the silicone surface cups can occasionally lose their grip, particularly during humid days. All in all, the TFY Car Window Sun Shade Protector Shine Blocker is a must-have for anyone experiencing the same sun-related issues as I did. Its unique features and relatively affordable price make it an attractive choice for car owners seeking a convenient solution to combat the sun's unwelcome intrusion. đSock-Style Car Window Shade for Sun Protection and Privacyhttps://preview.redd.it/ghwixxs7yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9a80159b2b91d7ecb8c83ef1b54341b099292ce7 As a busy mom, I've always been in search of products that could keep my babies comfortably in the car while driving during the hot summer days. When I came across Magnelex Sock-Style Car Window Shades, I was excited to try it out. This product is incredibly easy to use. The elasticized band stretches to fit over your car door, which completely blocks UV rays from entering the car, ensuring my little ones stay cool and comfortable. The mesh is so fine, I can still enjoy fresh air and a view of the outside without worrying about the sun burning my baby's sensitive skin. However, one thing that could have been better is the size. It's always a guessing game when shopping online, and though I measured my car door accurately, there's still a tiny bit of it left out. But, given that it's designed universally to fit most passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs, it's a small inconvenience for the otherwise excellent sun protection it provides. In terms of installation, I love how there are no adhesives or suction cups involved. The shades just slip over the car doors, and all it takes is a simple pull to remove them. So, while changing cars or wanting to let the sun in, it's really hassle-free. Overall, the Magnelex Sock-Style Car Window Shades have made my car rides much safer and more comfortable for my babies. It's a must-have product for families with infants or pets! đStylish modern hide a bed chairhttps://preview.redd.it/6etbqab8yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cc5e2727d8417d7b48b946ae0914f7075e5803df As a parent, I understand the importance of a comfortable car ride, especially with young, sensitive eyes. That's why I decided to give the Ovege Car Window Shade a try. It promised to protect my baby's eyes from the harsh sun rays and give us much-needed privacy while we're on the road. I was truly impressed by how easy it was to install these shades using the suction magnets provided. However, I did notice they didn't fit perfectly on our car doors, leaving a few gaps. But overall, the shades provided great UV protection and helped maintain a cooler temperature in the car on hot days. A pleasant surprise was the "limo effect" these shades created when we rolled down the windows. Air could still flow freely without exposing us to the sun, making the ride more enjoyable. I must admit, I didn't need to worry about the fit every time I removed and reattached the shades. The strong suction magnets held them in place, and my windows were left unscratched. The one downside I experienced was that the shades didn't cover all the areas of our car windows. This left us with a few spots that let in sunlight. Nevertheless, we found a workaround by adjusting the placement of the shades. In conclusion, the Ovege Car Window Shade has made a significant difference in our car rides, providing us with privacy, UV protection, and a more comfortable driving experience. The pros of this product definitely outweigh the cons, making it a worthwhile addition for any car owner. Buyer's Guidehttps://preview.redd.it/a4yuxiw8yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3e41e0b968ca72db4f27fd6d251b58b6e982a45e None FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/uabstp69yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7f78c07821dcf4bd99709d3941ba1607d22547c6 What are the benefits of using car window shades?Car window shades offer several benefits, including reducing glare and heat inside the vehicle, protecting passengers from harmful UV rays, enhancing privacy, and adding a decorative touch to your car's interior.What types of car window shades are available?https://preview.redd.it/fbdo3yj9yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=991f87cd8087c15493b6d9b5389fc619806cafd4 There are various types of car window shades, such as suction cup shades, adhesive-based shades, roller shades, and pop-up shades. Suction cup shades attach directly to the car window, while adhesive-based shades attach with adhesive. Roller shades and pop-up shades are mounted on a rod or wire, allowing them to be pulled up and down manually. How do I choose the right car window shade for my vehicle?When selecting a car window shade, consider factors such as the size of your car windows, the type of shade that fits your vehicle's design, and the amount of sun protection you require. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a shade that can be easily removed or one that stays in place more permanently. https://preview.redd.it/8319n0w9yb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f2df36296204f10427eb1ea7d395a4670e3dda56 How do I install car window shades?Installation methods vary depending on the type of shade you choose. Suction cup shades typically attach directly to the car window, while adhesive-based shades use an adhesive strip to adhere to the window. Roller and pop-up shades come with a mounting kit that allows you to attach the shade to the window using screws or clips.Are there car window shades suitable for rear-facing car seats?Yes, some car window shades are specifically designed to accommodate rear-facing car seats. These shades typically have adjustable mounts, allowing you to position the shade securely above the car seat without obstructing the driver's view.How do I clean and maintain my car window shades?Cleaning and maintaining your car window shades is essential to ensuring they last long and continue to protect your vehicle. To clean, simply use a damp cloth or mild soap to wipe down the shade. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the shade. For maintenance, periodically inspect the shade for signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.Can I install car window shades on all car windows?While car window shades can be installed on most car windows, there are some limitations to consider. Some states have laws that require at least one side window to remain unobstructed, so you may need to leave one window without a shade. Additionally, some window shades may not fit properly on certain car models, so be sure to verify compatibility before making a purchase.How much do car window shades typically cost?The cost of car window shades can vary depending on factors such as the type of shade, the brand, and the size. Generally, suction cup shades and adhesive-based shades tend to be more affordable, while roller and pop-up shades may be priced higher. Prices can range from around $10 to $50 or more, depending on the features and quality of the shade.As an Amazon⢠Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 08:45 GhoulGriin Best Car Wash Cannons
 | submitted by GhoulGriin to u/GhoulGriin [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/ujf931rfxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=861903c2527ffc86dae7c3ee4d70e9d9cb7971c3 Get ready to impress with the ultimate car washing companion - the Car Wash Cannons! In this roundup, we'll explore the best gear on the market that'll make your car shine like new. Say goodbye to dirty windows and spots on your vehicle with these top-rated products. So buckle up your car detailing apron, and let's dive in! The Top 19 Best Car Wash Cannons
ReviewsđHeavy Duty Foam Cannon for Motorcycle & Car Washinghttps://preview.redd.it/qe9gzk7gxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3de9f922dfbb141bcd1e7f303765c4608a5b6e2b Last year, I got myself the FGDCHNJ Pressure Washer Foam Cannon for my daily car washing routine. I have the foam wash gun mounted on my pressure washer, and it has been a game changer for my cleaning game. The heavy-duty brass material of the foam cannon makes it sturdy and long-lasting, perfect for both residential and commercial usage. It's been months since I got it, and it still works like brand new! I'm surprised how versatile this foam cannon is. One thing I love about this foam cannon is the adjustable foam thickness level and spray angles. It's super easy to use, and I can switch it up to match my washing needs effortlessly. The wide-mouth bottle design also ensures that I'm using the foam efficiently without causing any cracks, which is fantastic. I have the foam cannon on a 2-5.3 GPM pressure washer that works with a 1/4 inch connector, and it's compatible with pressure washer connectors ranging from 725-4,000 PSI operating pressure. It can handle up to 60°C/140°F max temp. While I've had a great experience with it, there's one small con. The foam cannon is made in China, so some users experienced issues with receiving counterfeit products. But, the good news is that it has a free replacement policy if you face any defects. Overall, I'm satisfied with my purchase and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a durable and efficient car wash foam cannon. đMaximum Foam Output 3D Ultra Blast Foam Car Wash Cannonhttps://preview.redd.it/n0qeiqlgxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f76cc48491a9c068ae4a6af8a50411bdfdb45c34 Have you ever wished there was a better way to clean your car? 3D's Ultra Blast Foamer Car Wash Foam Cannon does just that with its shaving cream-like foam coverage and adjustable spray nozzle. This foam cannon is a game changer, turning car washing into a fun and efficient experience. The 1 liter soap reservoir holds plenty of solution to cover even the largest vehicles with a luxurious, creamy foam. Using this foam cannon has been a game-changer for my detailing business. With just one fill-up, I can complete 6 or more vehicles, including cars and SUVs. The thick plastic bottle and robust foam blaster nozzle, made of sturdy plastic and metal, add great longevity to this little piece of equipment. The foam cannon not only makes washing a breeze, but it also lubricates the finish better, making washing safer. Using the Ultra Blast Foamer Car Wash Foam Cannon will leave you with flawless car images to share on your social media platforms â a true testament to its effectiveness. Give this amazing foam cannon a try and revolutionize the way you clean your car! đPremium Foam Cannon for Detailing Truckshttps://preview.redd.it/pnwda4vgxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=548636012b9cc8511f0c3d5ca873751b8bcbedc5 I've had the chance to use TriNova's Foam Cannon and Gallon Car Wash Soap Kit, and I must say, it's been quite the experience. Whenever my car is in desperate need of a deep cleaning, I rely on this set to help me out. The foam cannon is a game-changer, and its compatibility with standard pressure washer quick connect attachments makes it easily accessible to anyone. Adjusting the nozzle for narrow or wide steam and using the air intake knob to create more or less foam ensures that my ride gets the attention it deserves. One of the features that stood out to me was the option to use a narrow or wide steam. This allowed me to target specific areas of my car that needed extra attention, like under the wheel wells and engine bay. I also appreciated the ease of use with its attachments being easy to connect to my pressure washer wand. However, the price tag can be a bit steep for some users. I've noticed that the plastic bottle isn't the most durable, so I would proceed with caution while handling it to prevent any damages. All in all, TriNova's Foam Cannon and Gallon Car Wash Soap Kit have proved to be a valuable addition to my car care routine. Its performance and convenience have made washing my car a breeze, and I highly recommend it to anyone in need of a top-notch car wash set. đTotal Wash Street Foam Cannon Bundlehttps://preview.redd.it/wa36vyahxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e81d74a58e38de0d504e7ccb8eca5d7549be39a9 I recently tried the First Purchase Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Kit, and I must say, it's been quite the game-changer for my car washing routine. This kit offers not just a single cannon but also an additional cartridge, a HydraCoat Quick Detailer, and a Total Wash Heavy Duty ($65 value) for free. One of the standout features I noticed is how fast and convenient this kit is, especially when it comes to covering large surface areas in a short amount of time. It's perfect for those of us who are constantly on the go and don't have the luxury to spend hours washing our cars. The Total Wash Street offers an impressive thick lather that is safe on all surfaces and finishes. With just one cartridge, it makes over 5 gallons of highly effective wash, which is incredibly cost-effective in the long run. While I appreciated the added value of the free products and the convenience of the Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Kit, there were some minor drawbacks. For one, I found that the spray pattern wasn't as even as I'd hoped, requiring a bit more effort to ensure the car was completely covered. Overall, however, I'm quite satisfied with my experience using the First Purchase Total Wash Street Foam Cannon Kit, and I look forward to continuing to use it for my car washing needs. Despite the minor drawbacks, the kit's versatility, cost-effectiveness, and time-saving capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for any busy car owner. đUltimate Touchless Wash Bundle for Effortless Vehicle Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/06tb62mhxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9b6db58872d35283e33663612ab43c6ebc2223d5 I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Touchless Foam Cannon Kit, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer for car enthusiasts. The kit includes everything you need to make your car washing experience a breeze. The first thing that really impressed me was the quality of the foam. It's so rich and thick, it practically clings to the car, ensuring every inch is covered. The concentrated foam soap not only removes stubborn stains but also leaves my car with a stunning shine. Now, let's talk about the pressure washer foam cannons. They're a real treat! With the option of choosing between a max PSI of 3,000 and 5,000, you can tailor your wash to your vehicle's needs. The cannons make the washing process effortless and mess-free. However, as with any product, there were a couple of minor drawbacks. I found the instructions a bit vague, which made getting the hang of it a bit tricky at first. But once I figured it out, it was smooth sailing. All in all, I'm incredibly satisfied with this Touchless Foam Cannon Kit. It's easy to use, highly effective, and a must-have for anyone who values their car's appearance. I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking to make their car washing routine stress-free and efficient. đHigh-Pressure Car Wash Cannons for Effortless Foam Applicationhttps://preview.redd.it/dfpa1u3ixb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0585b3e0826e674aa5e106c4f5a8391ca10d0289 As someone who enjoys keeping my car clean and shiny, I recently gave the GDHXW X-887 High Pressure Washer Gun a try. This little gadget packs a punch, with a 3000 PSI rating that left my car looking brand new. The foam lance, with a 1/4" quick connector fitting, made the washing process a breeze, as I simply had to fill it with warm water and a bit of soap. One nifty feature of this pressure washer gun is the adjustable spray nozzle, which allowed me to find the perfect stream of water for my needs. With 7 different spray angles, I could easily switch between watering my plants, washing my car, and even cleaning my driveway with ease. The core, made of quality brass, added a layer of durability to the device, and its solid brass body made it quite heavy. Now, there were a couple of things that could have been better. First, connecting it to my garden water pipe turned out to be quite a challenge, as the product's instructions didn't quite line up with the hardware I had. Secondly, it wasn't as ideal for professional use as I had hoped - the spray nozzle seemed to need a bit more tweaking to get it to work just right. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GDHXW X-887 High Pressure Washer Gun has proven to be a reliable tool for car cleaning enthusiasts like myself. With its adjustable spray nozzle, sturdy build, and surprisingly powerful pressure, this device has become an invaluable companion on my car cleaning journey. đCar Wash Cannon: Easy, Foam Soap Blasting Systemhttps://preview.redd.it/3gxs1ibixb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d97abe8edc40d994b37ebefa4cc69113127c586 I recently tried this Carwash Cannon Foam Soap Blaster, and it turned out to be quite the experience. I have to say, the ease of use and convenience of this product impressed me right away. It was simple to attach to my garden hose and start blasting foam all over my car. One of the standout features for me was the 5 different spray settings. I found that the foam setting between 3-5 (high) worked particularly well in covering my car in thick, cleansing foam. After letting it soak for a while, I used a wash mitt to scrub each section of the car and then rinsed it off, revealing a clean and shiny finish. However, I did find that it didn't completely eliminate the need for manual scrubbing. Some stubborn spots still required a bit of elbow grease to remove, but overall, the carwash cannon made the process much more enjoyable and efficient. In terms of cons, one thing I noticed was that the foam gun's performance seemed to vary slightly between uses. Sometimes it would produce a thick, generous foam, while other times it seemed to produce less foam with less force. Although this didn't significantly impact the overall cleaning experience, it did require some adjustment in technique when washing different areas of the car. Overall, I'm quite pleased with this Carwash Cannon Foam Soap Blaster. It has definitely made my car washing experience easier and more enjoyable. By using the right soap and paying attention to the foam settings, it delivers impressive results, and I'd recommend it for anyone looking to make their car washing routine more efficient and less of a hassle. đCar Wash Foam Cannon with Adjustable Thicknesshttps://preview.redd.it/y1pkxkrixb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ee8a52edbe0923dee9ca7285078d126886e22cb I recently tried the Foam Cannon from Proper Detailing Co. to make washing my car safer and quicker. One of the standout features is the wide mouth design that makes filling the cannon a breeze - just add water and foam shampoo. This cannon can be used with both electric and gas pressure washers, making it versatile and easy to use. I also love the stainless pickup tube filter, which ensures consistent foaming action even when I'm spraying at an angle. Another great advantage is the simplicity of the thickness knob, which makes it easy to control the ratio of foam to water. By turning the knob, I can achieve the perfect snowfoam for a sparkling clean car. The Foam Cannon from Proper Detailing Co. not only saves time but also keeps my car safe by creating a safe lubricant for washing without scratching or marring the paint. This quality product made by an Atlanta-based brand has made my car washing experience more enjoyable and hassle-free. đEffortless Car Wash Foam Cannon: Powerful Cleaning with Non-Tip Designhttps://preview.redd.it/08v2dj2jxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1a47eff1d3a8519789784fb5a39e00770cab8349 I've been using the Armor All Foam Cannon in my daily life, and I must say it made my car washing routine a lot more enjoyable and efficient. The foam cannon not only saves me time but also provides better results as it evenly coats my vehicle with less effort, making it easier to clean and removing dirt and grime more effectively. One of the key aspects I appreciated about this foam cannon was its ease of use. The non-slip grip, along with the wide, non-tip bottle, ensures that I can control the foam cannon with ease while it effectively covers my car. Moreover, being compatible with a 1/4 inch Quick-Connect tip makes it more versatile and convenient to use, even with my existing pressure washer. While I've had a positive experience with the Armor All Foam Cannon, there was one thing that I found slightly frustrating. The 1/4 inch Quick-Connect tip that came with it didn't match my power washer perfectly, which led to an occasional overflow of foam and a messier experience. However, once I figured out the right Quick-Connect tip for my pressure washer, it made the foam cannon even more practical and efficient. In conclusion, the Armor All Foam Cannon has made my car washing experience a lot better, and I'm happy to see improvements in both the appearance of my car and my overall satisfaction. Despite the initial hiccup with the Quick-Connect tip, the foam cannon remains a practical and smart solution for anyone looking to simplify their car washing routine. đPowerful Car Wash Foam Cannon Kit for Pressure Washershttps://preview.redd.it/ozwy6djjxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3e95b77d8e14ccb064c38c7d3b9e859fd332a23b Recently, I had a chance to use the MTM Hydro 28 Special PF22.2 Foam Cannon Kit as a car wash solution for my weekend projects. The kit includes everything you need for a pressure washer attachment, from plug adapters to fittings. The swivel function on the SG28 Spray Gun is a game-changer, as it prevents tangles while changing directions. The PF22.2 Foam Cannon itself is impressive, creating a consistent foam that helps deep clean the surface while saving time. However, one drawback I experienced is that it might not be the most efficient for larger surfaces like houses or fences. When I tested the product on my car, it delivered a thorough and even clean. The adjustable fan blades and 2-stage nozzle are great additions, allowing me to control the flow and coverage of the foam. The car wash gun's flexibility made it perfect for cleaning nooks and crannies around my car. Overall, the MTM Hydro 28 Special PF22.2 Foam Cannon Kit is a powerful and versatile tool for anyone looking to make their car washing routine more efficient and eco-friendly. đMTM Hydro Ultimate Car Wash Cannon Kit with Spray Gun and Stainless Steel Fittingshttps://preview.redd.it/ce11z92kxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=403b81a15e21b5a879503797e494d71ff8b4fb83 When I first tried the MTM Hydro Ultimate Foam Cannon Kit and Spray Gun, I was impressed by how quickly and efficiently it cleaned my car. The integrated swivel gun and stainless steel fittings made maneuvering it a breeze, even in tight spaces. One of my favorite features is the adjustable nozzle, which allowed me to control the amount of foam I needed to get rid of stubborn dirt and grime. However, I did notice that the maximum pressure it could handle was only 5,000 PSI and 12 GPM. Despite this, the car wash foam cannon still produced a thick and effective cleaner for my vehicle. With its compatibility with various pressure washers and its ability to eliminate the need for reaching, the MTM Hydro Ultimate Foam Cannon Kit and Spray Gun is definitely a must-have for both home and professional cleaning needs. đProfessional Car Wash Foam Cannon for Touchless Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/p9e1zvckxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7fe0cc26f0649a50d06504a6b3a2f9d6adef7144 The Suds Lab F1 Professional Foam Cannon has been a game-changer in my car washing routine. Its ability to transform liquid soap into a luxurious foam that easily covers my car in a matter of minutes is truly remarkable. The installation process is a breeze, requiring no additional tools and simply needing to be attached to my pressure washer. One of the standout features for me is the adjustable foam control, which allows me to fully control the level of foam dispensed. This has been incredibly useful in saving my soap, and I no longer have to rely on the traditional sponge and bucket method. The 32-ounce canister size adds to its convenience, ensuring a sufficient amount of soap for multiple washes. However, there is a downside to this foam cannon. It can be quite bulky, as it measures approximately 6.89 inches in length and 9.84 inches in height. This makes it a bit challenging to store when not in use. Also, the pressure wash can be quite powerful, which means it may not be suitable for delicate surfaces or those who prefer a gentler wash. Overall, the Suds Lab F1 Professional Foam Cannon is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to streamline their car washing process, but its size and power level should be considered before making a purchase. đUltimate Car Wash Foam Gun for Pressure Washer Accessories Kithttps://preview.redd.it/ps2d0upkxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6cd31410aa949e25072fa60beff226b38cb31355 I remember the first time I tested this foam cannon for my pressure washer. It was a game-changer! The powerful 1.1mm valve created the most impressive foam I'd ever seen. It made washing my car so much more effective and enjoyable. I was impressed by how easy it was to use - simply add soap, fill with water, and shake to create the perfect car wash foam. The adjustable nozzle allowed me to control the spray pattern, making the experience even better. One of the things I loved about this foam cannon is its durability. The wide neck design ensures it won't crack, even under heavy use. I've used it multiple times now, and it still performs excellently. Plus, the fact that it comes with Snow Foam Car Wash Soap makes it a perfect car wash kit. However, there was one aspect I found a bit annoying - the foam cannon can be quite heavy when filled with water. But overall, I'd highly recommend this foam cannon to anyone looking for an efficient and effective way to wash their car. Buyer's GuideCar Wash Cannons are powerful, versatile tools designed to tackle various car cleaning tasks with ease. They provide an efficient and convenient way to clean cars, whether it's for personal use or a professional car wash service. In this guide, we will discuss various important factors to consider when purchasing a Car Wash Cannon to ensure you make the right choice.Water Pressurehttps://preview.redd.it/u0pzthlnxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=16311f8d593b007051bb97240927596b97d3c640 Water pressure is a critical factor when choosing a Car Wash Cannon. Ensure that the device you select can handle the required pressure for your specific application. Water pressure requirements may vary depending on the type of cleaning task, such as washing vehicle interiors, exteriors, or removing stubborn dirt and stains. VersatilityConsider the versatility of the Car Wash Cannon. Look for devices that come with multiple attachments, such as different nozzles, extensions, and brushes. This will allow you to tackle various cleaning tasks with ease without needing separate tools for each job. Versatile Car Wash Cannons can save you time and money in the long run.Durability and Build QualityCar Wash Cannons should be built to withstand regular use and harsh cleaning conditions. Look for devices made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or industrial-grade plastics. Inspect the build quality and construction of the Cannon to ensure that it can handle the wear and tear that comes with consistent use. https://preview.redd.it/sgwlqvxnxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b722717ee61e8360766a1251bf56d17117ca61fa Power SourceCar Wash Cannons can be powered by electricity, compressed air, or a combination of both. Each power source has its advantages and disadvantages. Electric car wash cannons are generally more powerful and easier to use, while compressed air cannons are more suited for specific applications. Consider the type of car washing tasks you need to perform and choose a power source that best fits your requirements.Noise LevelsNoise levels are an essential consideration when selecting a Car Wash Cannon, especially if you plan to use it in a residential area or close to living spaces. Look for devices with lower noise levels to minimize disruption to your surroundings.Maintenance and Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/xxrkq7goxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f80a7218db35f5099ba7cd8fa6fe8cf690171692 Proper maintenance and cleaning of your Car Wash Cannon are crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Choose devices with replaceable or repairable parts to make it easier to maintain and clean. Additionally, follow the manufacturer's advice on maintenance and cleaning procedures to keep your Car Wash Cannon in top condition. Price and ValueFinally, consider the price and value of the Car Wash Cannon you are interested in purchasing. Higher-priced models may offer advanced features and better performance, but this doesn't always mean they are the best choice for your needs. Evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of the device and choose one that offers the best value for your money.By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision when selecting a Car Wash Cannon that suits your car cleaning needs and expectations. FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/dztawiroxb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2074a0dd1318abbe5b290aeadd191e0fa0bef4a2 What are Car Wash Cannons?Car Wash Cannons are high-powered, industrial-strength car wash systems designed for use at commercial car washes. These machines are capable of washing an entire vehicle at once and are perfect for high-volume car wash operations.How do Car Wash Cannons work?Car Wash Cannons use a combination of hot water, high-pressure cleaning jets, and specialized cleaning solutions to wash a vehicle. The process typically involves a pre-soak, foaming, and rinsing stage, followed by a high-pressure wash to remove dirt and grime. Finally, the vehicle is polished and waxed to give it a shiny finish.Are Car Wash Cannons easy to operate?While Car Wash Cannons are designed to be user-friendly, it is essential to receive proper training from the manufacturer or a certified technician. This will ensure that you are aware of all safety procedures and maintenance requirements to operate the machine efficiently.What are the benefits of using a Car Wash Cannon?
How much do Car Wash Cannons cost?The cost of a Car Wash Cannon can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size of the machine, the features it includes, and the manufacturer. It is best to contact the manufacturer directly or consult a reputable dealer for an accurate price quote.What maintenance is required for a Car Wash Cannon?Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your Car Wash Cannon operates efficiently and safely. This may include cleaning filters, replacing worn parts, and inspecting the entire system for any potential issues. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and consult a certified technician for any necessary repairs.As an Amazon⢠Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 08:43 jpd2979 A year and a half later and I'm still angry/traumatized...
Disclaimer: I don't want unsolicited advice or anyone telling me what to do. I want to know if you relate or have been what I've been through.
I'm in 12 step recovery. Specifically AA. And I've been sober for almost 11 years. About a year and a half ago I found myself in what I didn't know at the time was a very emotionally abusive friendship with another alcoholic who had significantly less time than me. Pretend I'm not a bad guy and take my word for it. I felt gaslighted. When I confronted him about things he was doing that were bothering me, he ghosted me deliberately and blocked my number without warning me. I went crazy after the fact that that happened. And then after that we talked about a month later and he basically said he refuses to believe any narrative where I was victimized by him. And he proceeded to tell me I'm crazy and implied I was delusional because I had a different take on things he was doing that I accused him of. And I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. This dude and I were inseparable best buds in a bromance together and then one day he just decided to be extremely cold, and rather than just admit that he was wrong and sorry he hurt me, he really doubled down on the fact that he had "every right" to ghost me. And it got really out of hand. Bc I went missing and left AA bc I was so heartbroken and upset that someone I was so close to could so thoroughly violate my trust. And so everyone's looking for me and showing up at my house and I'm not there. They all think I either relapsed or killed myself. I didn't. And at one point, unbeknownst to me, a mutual friend of ours gets him to call me. He called and didn't leave a voicemail. I eventually start texting everyone letting them know I'm alright. And I call him and he doesn't answer or text me back for 48 hours so I was pissed bc I thought he was playing games. And so I blow up on him and lose control of my anger and I'm like I know where you live, where you go to meetings, play games with me fucker I dare you to. And the last text I ever got from him was extremely callous, basically trying to make me feel like a bad person for blowing off all my friends for a month, and he basically said he called me to tell me that and then he said bc I threatened him, he'd call the police if I ever contacted him again. And I'm just in absolute shock that the dude I was once sleeping at his house, hanging out with him nonstop, someone I took care of when he was sick. Someone I gave rides to meetings. He was like for a minute there my ride or die. And now he's being so fucking cold as to call the police on me. And ok... Normally I would be like valid, I threatened him. But I've called the cops on his neighbors once before back when we were friends bc they were assaulting one another and he called me a "snitch" and flipped out on me for getting the cops involved bc he was still on probation. So he's a goddamn hypocrite.
And ever since this bullshit happened, I think about it almost at any point where I have idle time in my day. I think about it CONSTANTLY. I want JUSTICE. I want to feel like this douchebag got a dose of karma for acting like the biggest asshole on the planet to me. I want him to lose custody of his child. I want him to relapse and go back to prison. I want him to suffer. And I know for a fact I'm not crazy the way he said I was because so many other ppl including his own mutual friends have heard my side of the story and have had my back saying I didn't deserve that. And not to mention, I've met several men since him that I've had very healthy relationships with and they treat me with respect. Like I have one best friend I can talk to on the phone for 6 hours. We're going to Europe together later this year. I'm going out to Vegas to see him. He's seen me at my very worst when all of this was going on. He tells me he loves me constantly. So I know based on the actions of other people that this guy was a total dirtbag to me.
And like I said, I'm angry, and I'm traumatized and I remember every finite detail as if it happened yesterday. And at times, I find my wheels are just spinning thinking crazy shit like oh I'm gonna go find that fucker and bash his windows in on his car. And I'm constantly thinking about how if there is a God, why haven't I found something out about him like oh he lost his job. Oh he quit school. Oh he did this or did that. But radio silence. And if anything he's outwardly doing "really well" according to some of my friends. And I'm over here just ready to do everything short of killing him. And all day long I think of either the day he reaches out to make amends to me, or the day we bump into each other somewhere and what I'm going to say, and it ranges from emotional to pissed off to violent to this to that. And I'm losing my mind. And I am fully aware of resentment being like drinking poison expecting the other person to die. NONE OF THOSE BULLSHIT SAYINGS HELP!!! I get temporary relief when I'm either hanging out with friends or I get relief when I'm doing something to help someone else out. But I just want serenity. And no. I don't want to forgive him. I don't want to in any way let him back into my life. I'm not interested in making amends for anything at all if there even was anything bc I'm not about to sit there and get manipulated again even if I'm being the better person by admitting where I was wrong.
And I haven't been to an Al Anon meeting in over a year. And I'm scared to go back. I automatically feel like I'm a porcupine ready to shoot my quills out at anyone who personally attacks me, bc the worst part about abusive people is they make us have to constantly defend ourselves and our actions when they don't have to do shit! And lately I've been very seriously thinking once my service position at this one meeting I chair at is up, I'm fucking dipping out of AA for good. I don't need these manipulative people anymore. I've gone through enough hell. I constantly see examples of shady fuckers like him "working the steps" and "calling their sponsosponsee" and all this horse shit, when like that best friend of mine who I'm going to Europe with, he hasn't been to a meeting in over a year and somehow he's the most understanding compassionate person I know but he's "dry" and all of them are "working a spiritual program of action"... Then where the f** is my amends?? And yes, I don't care if that makes me sound entitled. You're lying if you've never felt that way about someone else in your life... I'm just done. Lately I just am so exhausted that I just wanna work and never talk to anyone ever again except for like maybe 3 people. Everyone else can go suck it. Especially him.
submitted by jpd2979 to AlAnon [link] [comments]
I'm in 12 step recovery. Specifically AA. And I've been sober for almost 11 years. About a year and a half ago I found myself in what I didn't know at the time was a very emotionally abusive friendship with another alcoholic who had significantly less time than me. Pretend I'm not a bad guy and take my word for it. I felt gaslighted. When I confronted him about things he was doing that were bothering me, he ghosted me deliberately and blocked my number without warning me. I went crazy after the fact that that happened. And then after that we talked about a month later and he basically said he refuses to believe any narrative where I was victimized by him. And he proceeded to tell me I'm crazy and implied I was delusional because I had a different take on things he was doing that I accused him of. And I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. This dude and I were inseparable best buds in a bromance together and then one day he just decided to be extremely cold, and rather than just admit that he was wrong and sorry he hurt me, he really doubled down on the fact that he had "every right" to ghost me. And it got really out of hand. Bc I went missing and left AA bc I was so heartbroken and upset that someone I was so close to could so thoroughly violate my trust. And so everyone's looking for me and showing up at my house and I'm not there. They all think I either relapsed or killed myself. I didn't. And at one point, unbeknownst to me, a mutual friend of ours gets him to call me. He called and didn't leave a voicemail. I eventually start texting everyone letting them know I'm alright. And I call him and he doesn't answer or text me back for 48 hours so I was pissed bc I thought he was playing games. And so I blow up on him and lose control of my anger and I'm like I know where you live, where you go to meetings, play games with me fucker I dare you to. And the last text I ever got from him was extremely callous, basically trying to make me feel like a bad person for blowing off all my friends for a month, and he basically said he called me to tell me that and then he said bc I threatened him, he'd call the police if I ever contacted him again. And I'm just in absolute shock that the dude I was once sleeping at his house, hanging out with him nonstop, someone I took care of when he was sick. Someone I gave rides to meetings. He was like for a minute there my ride or die. And now he's being so fucking cold as to call the police on me. And ok... Normally I would be like valid, I threatened him. But I've called the cops on his neighbors once before back when we were friends bc they were assaulting one another and he called me a "snitch" and flipped out on me for getting the cops involved bc he was still on probation. So he's a goddamn hypocrite.
And ever since this bullshit happened, I think about it almost at any point where I have idle time in my day. I think about it CONSTANTLY. I want JUSTICE. I want to feel like this douchebag got a dose of karma for acting like the biggest asshole on the planet to me. I want him to lose custody of his child. I want him to relapse and go back to prison. I want him to suffer. And I know for a fact I'm not crazy the way he said I was because so many other ppl including his own mutual friends have heard my side of the story and have had my back saying I didn't deserve that. And not to mention, I've met several men since him that I've had very healthy relationships with and they treat me with respect. Like I have one best friend I can talk to on the phone for 6 hours. We're going to Europe together later this year. I'm going out to Vegas to see him. He's seen me at my very worst when all of this was going on. He tells me he loves me constantly. So I know based on the actions of other people that this guy was a total dirtbag to me.
And like I said, I'm angry, and I'm traumatized and I remember every finite detail as if it happened yesterday. And at times, I find my wheels are just spinning thinking crazy shit like oh I'm gonna go find that fucker and bash his windows in on his car. And I'm constantly thinking about how if there is a God, why haven't I found something out about him like oh he lost his job. Oh he quit school. Oh he did this or did that. But radio silence. And if anything he's outwardly doing "really well" according to some of my friends. And I'm over here just ready to do everything short of killing him. And all day long I think of either the day he reaches out to make amends to me, or the day we bump into each other somewhere and what I'm going to say, and it ranges from emotional to pissed off to violent to this to that. And I'm losing my mind. And I am fully aware of resentment being like drinking poison expecting the other person to die. NONE OF THOSE BULLSHIT SAYINGS HELP!!! I get temporary relief when I'm either hanging out with friends or I get relief when I'm doing something to help someone else out. But I just want serenity. And no. I don't want to forgive him. I don't want to in any way let him back into my life. I'm not interested in making amends for anything at all if there even was anything bc I'm not about to sit there and get manipulated again even if I'm being the better person by admitting where I was wrong.
And I haven't been to an Al Anon meeting in over a year. And I'm scared to go back. I automatically feel like I'm a porcupine ready to shoot my quills out at anyone who personally attacks me, bc the worst part about abusive people is they make us have to constantly defend ourselves and our actions when they don't have to do shit! And lately I've been very seriously thinking once my service position at this one meeting I chair at is up, I'm fucking dipping out of AA for good. I don't need these manipulative people anymore. I've gone through enough hell. I constantly see examples of shady fuckers like him "working the steps" and "calling their sponsosponsee" and all this horse shit, when like that best friend of mine who I'm going to Europe with, he hasn't been to a meeting in over a year and somehow he's the most understanding compassionate person I know but he's "dry" and all of them are "working a spiritual program of action"... Then where the f** is my amends?? And yes, I don't care if that makes me sound entitled. You're lying if you've never felt that way about someone else in your life... I'm just done. Lately I just am so exhausted that I just wanna work and never talk to anyone ever again except for like maybe 3 people. Everyone else can go suck it. Especially him.
2024.05.19 08:36 jay_blue_ comments about my physical appearance
i might be overreacting, but my family has been making comments about how skinny i look and that i should start lifting weights. i started running, and was told to stop and eat more
some info, iâve been on a wl journey for 3 months and lost 20lbs, im pretty proud of myself for it. i donât see a huge difference in the mirror but iâm hella self conscious about my body. i take criticism to heart and it makes me feel insecure that my family had to say something. recently iâm adapting to calisthenics and incorporating it into my life, but they donât know that. idk why i feel so shitty about this, iâm trying my best.
submitted by jay_blue_ to family [link] [comments]
some info, iâve been on a wl journey for 3 months and lost 20lbs, im pretty proud of myself for it. i donât see a huge difference in the mirror but iâm hella self conscious about my body. i take criticism to heart and it makes me feel insecure that my family had to say something. recently iâm adapting to calisthenics and incorporating it into my life, but they donât know that. idk why i feel so shitty about this, iâm trying my best.
2024.05.19 08:35 Heroman3003 Taking Care of Broken Birds [Part 3]
More misery bird? More misery bird. Really miserymaxxing with these fics I have going, but hey, this one is not that miserable actually! Krekos is back and ready to be dense and downcast, but maybe not quite miserable? Read and see!
Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
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Memory transcription subject: Krekos, Krakotl Refugee
Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didnât feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
âAre you doing this now? Really?â, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators arenât yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. Itâs telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didnât forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I canât say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than Iâd expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one thatâs usually the target of flockâs ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasnât too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved Iâve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! Thatâs how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldnât pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isnât actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I donât know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones Iâd start following even without them being established, so I wonât have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
As if following the rules will be enough to make them like you.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterdayâs incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earthâs non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I havenât told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didnât want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe thatâs the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that Iâve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
And you expect to start studying again with that attitude? Youâll flunk out even from this primitive predator education course.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. Itâs the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they canât deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or packâs, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the lonerâs behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldnât be back until afternoon, and theyâd never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldnât they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lenaâs insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didnât have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
âMr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!â, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
âHello, Rosie. Why are you here?â
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
âI just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?â
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
âThey did tell me visitors are allowed as long as thereâs no trouble when I first moved in.â
And before I could type a followup message asking her why sheâs here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
âCan I see the chickens?â, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
âWait! Youâll scare them!â, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she canât understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didnât start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe thatâs where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
âGrandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think theyâre cute.â, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosieâs grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
âDoes your grandfather know youâre here?â
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
â...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.â
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
â...he doesnât know Iâm here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...â, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldnât help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
âIâm sorry... But if I told grandpa, heâd tell me Iâm forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! Youâre nice and youâre a space bird!â
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I donât know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and Iâd rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, Iâd rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they arenât allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
âI see. What did you want to talk to me about then?â, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
âI wanna know more about space! And aliens! Itâs all so cool but grandpa says itâs all dangerous because mom and dad died. But itâs not! The hedgehog people were nice, and youâre nice too!â
I wasnât sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldnât try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
âI am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.â
âBut youâre from there! You know way more than me. I donât even know what you are called. And thereâs gotta be cool things out in space!â
I let out a sigh. I suppose itâs childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
And then you let your teacher die.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
âOkay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.â
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
âYes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!â Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. âI dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?â
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I wonât disappoint her then.
âI am from a species called âkrakotlâ. Weâre avians, as is obvious. Our home is...âdead, gone, reduced to glass and ash by our own hubris â...was Nishtal. A beautiful planet...â
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
âWhat about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but theyâre the only ones I know name of.â
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
âThey are called âgojidâ, and theyâre from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.â
I am not sure if thatâs something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didnât want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but thereâs still joy left in her. I wouldnât want to be the one to ruin that.
âCool! What about other people? I wanna know more!â
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. Itâs weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isnât just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly arenât too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didnât know much of. I told her about Venlil Primeâs tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasnât. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
Not that I, of all people, deserved it...
âHey! Stop that!â
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasnât directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
âWhat are you doing?! Donât touch them!â
I didnât want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didnât want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
âSorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.â She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
âThat was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?â, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
âTheyâre chickens! They arenât dangerous. They donât peck that painful and Iâve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.â
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
âMwah! There, all better.â
She did a human âkissâ on the back of the cattle birdâs neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, Iâve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
âYou gotta kiss it so it heals better! Thatâs what mom taught me.â The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasnât unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldnât be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if thatâs the case, maybe thatâs how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
âI see. I did not know that.â I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole âwatching a human childâ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
âWait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?â She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
âItâs nearly twelve.â I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
âOh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!â
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lenaâs car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
â...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.â
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesnât mean their son wonât be... I felt the panic rising as I realized Iâd need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
âKen, you said itâs going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?â Lenaâs voice. She should have told him, thatâd give me time to prepare why didnât they give me time why.
âNo, no problems, just, really surprised, thatâs all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? Youâre really... trembly.â
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
âI-Iâm fine...â
...thankfully translators donât translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
âHey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didnât think...â He looks over at Lena and Reginald. âCalm down... I can wear my visor if you want?â
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
âI... Iâm good...â
Why would it last? It almost felt good after all.
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young humanâs face, as he sighed and shook his head.
âI screwed this up, Iâm sorry. Let... Let me try again.â He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. âHello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told youâre a refugee they took in to help out. Itâs nice to meet you. Whatâs your name?â
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald werenât. Thatâs a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
âMy name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. Itâs... nice to meet you?â
The smile on Kennethâs face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didnât want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
âYou know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought itâd be that literal.â
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
âLetâs head inside. Krekos, weâre having dinner, youâre welcome to join us.â Reginald said, picking up Kennethâs bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. âWe will be having meat... But thereâs still going to be stuff you can eat too. Itâs a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.â
âDad, you shouldnât have!â Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
âNone of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know youâre still... uncertain about meat so you donâtââ
âIâll join.â
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
âThatâs great to hear! Iâve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that youâll enjoy!â Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didnât notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And thatâs how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldnât be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, Iâll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
Like you could ever be on the same level as humans.
âSo, Fahl? Thatâs where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?â Lena asked.
âYeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.â
Thatâs right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
âHonestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!â
I couldnât resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kennethâs attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
âSo, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.â
Thatâs a weird question. Isnât it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?â
âIâm from Nishtal.â
âNo, no, thatâs not what I meant,â Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, âI meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but itâs not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place theyâd be.â
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasnât about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the humanâs anticipating stare before I answered.
âI did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.â I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
âOh.â
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldnât take it.
âI-Iâm full... Thank you for the meal.â I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew itâs not safe to just fly over other peopleâs territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
Flying away from any danger is the only thing Iâm good for anyway. The only thing I ever do.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like Iâm actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but itâs still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau itâs much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and youâre just fine, free to soar the skies...
Alone. With no one to ever share it with me again.
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on whatâs below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time Iâve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
Swooping at them from the sky like a predator to intimidate them into behaving... Like an arxur warden.
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didnât see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, itâd be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe thatâs the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kennethâs preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, Iâd really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasnât anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didnât get nearly killed today... Thatâs nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
âUh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? Itâs just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didnât think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please donât worry about me?â He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. âI didnât mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.â
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginaldâs weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldnât understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
âN-No, itâs fine... Iâm sorry for... intruding on you and your family.â
âNo, no, dude, youâre fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I canât believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. Iâm not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know theyâll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dadâs judgment is to be trusted.â His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. âSo, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?â
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasnât sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of âfriendsâ is anyone theyâre cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. Youâd think translators would properly use âacquaintanceâ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I canât just say no, and... I canât come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
âYeah... I guess thatâd be for the best.â I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
âCool! Anyway, Iâll try to get some shuteye early, I couldnât sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!â
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out âas we go from thereâ. So itâs not a schedule, itâs just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldnât have to deal with humansâ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasnât entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if thereâs some required reading to prepare?
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Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
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Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didnât feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
âAre you doing this now? Really?â, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators arenât yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. Itâs telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didnât forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I canât say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than Iâd expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one thatâs usually the target of flockâs ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasnât too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved Iâve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! Thatâs how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldnât pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isnât actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I donât know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones Iâd start following even without them being established, so I wonât have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterdayâs incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earthâs non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I havenât told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didnât want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe thatâs the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that Iâve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. Itâs the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they canât deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or packâs, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the lonerâs behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldnât be back until afternoon, and theyâd never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldnât they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lenaâs insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didnât have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
âMr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!â, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
âHello, Rosie. Why are you here?â
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
âI just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?â
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
âThey did tell me visitors are allowed as long as thereâs no trouble when I first moved in.â
And before I could type a followup message asking her why sheâs here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
âCan I see the chickens?â, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
âWait! Youâll scare them!â, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she canât understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didnât start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe thatâs where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
âGrandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think theyâre cute.â, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosieâs grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
âDoes your grandfather know youâre here?â
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
â...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.â
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
â...he doesnât know Iâm here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...â, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldnât help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
âIâm sorry... But if I told grandpa, heâd tell me Iâm forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! Youâre nice and youâre a space bird!â
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I donât know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and Iâd rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, Iâd rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they arenât allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
âI see. What did you want to talk to me about then?â, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
âI wanna know more about space! And aliens! Itâs all so cool but grandpa says itâs all dangerous because mom and dad died. But itâs not! The hedgehog people were nice, and youâre nice too!â
I wasnât sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldnât try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
âI am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.â
âBut youâre from there! You know way more than me. I donât even know what you are called. And thereâs gotta be cool things out in space!â
I let out a sigh. I suppose itâs childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
âOkay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.â
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
âYes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!â Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. âI dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?â
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I wonât disappoint her then.
âI am from a species called âkrakotlâ. Weâre avians, as is obvious. Our home is...â
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
âWhat about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but theyâre the only ones I know name of.â
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
âThey are called âgojidâ, and theyâre from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.â
I am not sure if thatâs something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didnât want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but thereâs still joy left in her. I wouldnât want to be the one to ruin that.
âCool! What about other people? I wanna know more!â
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. Itâs weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isnât just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly arenât too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didnât know much of. I told her about Venlil Primeâs tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasnât. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
âHey! Stop that!â
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasnât directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
âWhat are you doing?! Donât touch them!â
I didnât want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didnât want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
âSorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.â She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
âThat was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?â, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
âTheyâre chickens! They arenât dangerous. They donât peck that painful and Iâve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.â
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
âMwah! There, all better.â
She did a human âkissâ on the back of the cattle birdâs neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, Iâve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
âYou gotta kiss it so it heals better! Thatâs what mom taught me.â The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasnât unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldnât be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if thatâs the case, maybe thatâs how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
âI see. I did not know that.â I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole âwatching a human childâ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
âWait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?â She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
âItâs nearly twelve.â I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
âOh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!â
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lenaâs car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
â...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.â
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesnât mean their son wonât be... I felt the panic rising as I realized Iâd need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
âKen, you said itâs going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?â Lenaâs voice. She should have told him, thatâd give me time to prepare why didnât they give me time why.
âNo, no problems, just, really surprised, thatâs all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? Youâre really... trembly.â
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
âI-Iâm fine...â
...thankfully translators donât translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
âHey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didnât think...â He looks over at Lena and Reginald. âCalm down... I can wear my visor if you want?â
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
âI... Iâm good...â
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young humanâs face, as he sighed and shook his head.
âI screwed this up, Iâm sorry. Let... Let me try again.â He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. âHello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told youâre a refugee they took in to help out. Itâs nice to meet you. Whatâs your name?â
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald werenât. Thatâs a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
âMy name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. Itâs... nice to meet you?â
The smile on Kennethâs face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didnât want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
âYou know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought itâd be that literal.â
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
âLetâs head inside. Krekos, weâre having dinner, youâre welcome to join us.â Reginald said, picking up Kennethâs bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. âWe will be having meat... But thereâs still going to be stuff you can eat too. Itâs a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.â
âDad, you shouldnât have!â Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
âNone of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know youâre still... uncertain about meat so you donâtââ
âIâll join.â
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
âThatâs great to hear! Iâve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that youâll enjoy!â Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didnât notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And thatâs how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldnât be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, Iâll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
âSo, Fahl? Thatâs where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?â Lena asked.
âYeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.â
Thatâs right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
âHonestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!â
I couldnât resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kennethâs attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
âSo, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.â
Thatâs a weird question. Isnât it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?â
âIâm from Nishtal.â
âNo, no, thatâs not what I meant,â Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, âI meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but itâs not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place theyâd be.â
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasnât about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the humanâs anticipating stare before I answered.
âI did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.â I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
âOh.â
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldnât take it.
âI-Iâm full... Thank you for the meal.â I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew itâs not safe to just fly over other peopleâs territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like Iâm actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but itâs still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau itâs much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and youâre just fine, free to soar the skies...
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on whatâs below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time Iâve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didnât see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, itâd be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe thatâs the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kennethâs preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, Iâd really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasnât anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didnât get nearly killed today... Thatâs nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
âUh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? Itâs just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didnât think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please donât worry about me?â He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. âI didnât mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.â
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginaldâs weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldnât understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
âN-No, itâs fine... Iâm sorry for... intruding on you and your family.â
âNo, no, dude, youâre fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I canât believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. Iâm not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know theyâll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dadâs judgment is to be trusted.â His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. âSo, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?â
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasnât sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of âfriendsâ is anyone theyâre cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. Youâd think translators would properly use âacquaintanceâ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I canât just say no, and... I canât come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
âYeah... I guess thatâd be for the best.â I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
âCool! Anyway, Iâll try to get some shuteye early, I couldnât sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!â
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out âas we go from thereâ. So itâs not a schedule, itâs just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldnât have to deal with humansâ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasnât entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if thereâs some required reading to prepare?
2024.05.19 08:31 MedicMoth Greens 'State of the Planet' speech 2024 [FULL TRANSCRIPT]
Reposting here for posterity
Summary: Greens hits out at policies tailored for the wealthy, not the people; saying they are devoid of care and evidence. They said if they were delivering this year's budget, they would deliver the following by taxing wealth:
submitted by MedicMoth to nzpolitics [link] [comments]
Summary: Greens hits out at policies tailored for the wealthy, not the people; saying they are devoid of care and evidence. They said if they were delivering this year's budget, they would deliver the following by taxing wealth:
- An income guarantee for everyone
- Lift every family out of poverty
- More support for students or people out of work
- Extra help if you're sick or disabled
- Payments for families so kids can thrive
- More resourcing for the public service
- Free dental care
- Cheaper power bills
- Solar panels and batteries for homes
- Climate pollution reduction
MÄ te oranga o te taiao, ka ora ai te iwi. MĹ te takitini, kÄore mo te torutoru anake. Ki te mana whenua o tÄnei rohe, tĹŤ mai rÄ NgÄti WhÄtua, tÄnÄ koutou. Ki a tÄtou e huihui mai nei, ko ngÄ moemoeÄ o te PÄti KÄkÄriki te take, nau mai, haere mai, whakatau mai.
TenÄ koutou, tÄnÄ koutou, tÄnÄ tÄtou katoa.
Sixteen million dollars.
Thatâs how much the coalition parties raised to win last yearâs election.
Ten million for National.
Four million for Act.
Just under two million for New Zealand First.
Sixteen million dollars.
From property developers and business tycoons who have built their wealth by exploiting our natural environment.
To companies who profit from digging up our whenua and overfishing our oceans - activities that cause significant harm to our precious ecosystems.
Sixteen million dollars helped to put this government into power.
And in a little less than two weeks, the coalition government will unveil its first budget.
It has clearly been difficult for them to put it together.
To the right, Act is trying to fire all the people who make our public services work, while in their own cooker corner New Zealand First hoards 1.2 billion dollars for hand-chosen pet projects.
The Coalition has found half a billion dollars for new defence spending, but cancelled projects to improve buses and trains in Auckland and Wellington.
Theyâre borrowing billions to cover the cost of cutting taxes for wealthy property investors, because theyâve realised that the promises they made during the election campaign were slapdash and expensive.
Meanwhile, people with the least face ever higher costs.
Bus fares have already gone up.
Rents continue to rise, while the government is giving tax breaks to landlords instead of investing in more public housing.
So on Budget Day, when we see what the coalition has been able to cobble together, I want you to remember: sixteen million dollars.
Whatâs in the Budget for the people who paid for Nationalâs election campaign?
And what could have been in the budget instead if Aotearoa had a Government that prioritised people and planet?
Because I am not here for the relative few who donated those sixteen million dollars.
I am here for the many, including the 330,000 people who trusted the Green Party with their votes last year.
And I want to thank you all once again.
Your voices will continue to be heard.
You told us you wanted us to fight for an Aotearoa where everyone can get by, where our native wildlife and oceans thrive, where we take bold climate action, and where we honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
That is what we are doing. And we will be loud. And we will be staunch as always.
I am here for those who cannot sit by while the government tries to take the country backwards on the issues that matter most.
While the goal of a smoke-free generation goes up in smoke.
While new coal mines are dug into our precious conservation land, even as the Prime Minister claims to want to achieve climate change targets.
While the few with extraordinary wealth get what they want, at the expense of everyone else.
The Greens have always been, and will always be, the voice for a different kind of politics.
A politics centred in justice through honouring te Tiriti o Waitangi, not using it to drive a wedge in our communities.
A politics that celebrates the potential our country could live up to if it was grounded in manaakitanga and equity.
That acknowledges the richness of generations of tangata whenua and tangata tiriti working together to care for our whenua and collectively enjoying the fruits of mahitahi.
Where we protect PapatĹŤÄnuku out of aroha for her, and respect that her wellbeing is also what keeps us alive.
Where we share what we have so everyone in Aotearoa can live a good life.
Everything the Greens won over the last two terms in government with Labour was hard fought. Governments must make tradeoffs. But Governments are defined by their choices.
And right now, the coalition is making theirs clear.
If the Greens were delivering this yearâs budget, Iâll tell you what would be in it.
An income guarantee, so no matter what, everyone has what they need to live a decent life.
We could lift every family in Aotearoa out of poverty, and give people the peace of mind that theyâll be supported if they fall on tough times.
More support for students and people out of work, extra help if youâre sick or disabled, and simple payments for families so all kids can thrive.
Free dental care.
Successive governments have let basic dental healthcare get so expensive, that forty percent - forty percent! - of people avoid going to the dentist.
Itâs just too expensive.
In Aotearoa, we could choose to resource our public health services - funded by taxes on wealth, so that everyone can be looked after when they need it.
And if the Greens were putting together the Budget, it would fund our plan to make your homes warmer while cutting down your power bills AND climate pollution.
Solar panels and batteries for homes to store the sunâs free energy, taking pressure off the power grid.
But this year, with the help of sixteen million dollars from some of the wealthiest people in Aotearoa, National, Act, and New Zealand First have the privilege of making those decisions.
And I say to them, what are you going to do with it?
You have the choice to end poverty.
Or to give tax breaks to landlords.
To give back more to people who earn their living, instead of tax breaks for people who own more houses than they need, and who already get untaxed capital gains.
You have the choice to invest in solar power, or open up new coal mines.
The choices people make when they have power show us what they are motivated by. These choices define the world they want to create.
So today I want to talk with you about what motivates the Green Party.
Ko te mana o Te Tiriti.
Ko te oranga o te Taiao.
Ko ngÄ tĹŤmanako mĹ ngÄ tamariki.
We are motivated by generations of movements and leaders who have pushed for the sovereignty of tangata whenua guaranteed by te Tiriti o Waitangi.
A partnership on which this country was built, despite the continuous breaches by the Crown partner.
The Green Party is a Tiriti party.
Our leadership is a partnership between tangata whenua and tangata tiriti.
Our work seeks to honour the commitments made generations ago, to prosper together.
Our commitment to Tiriti justice is absolutely integral to everything the Greens do - just as it is integral to the future of Aotearoa.
Tino rangatiratanga is at the heart of healing relationships across communities and reconnecting all of us with our seas, our rivers, our bush, our mountains, and our whenua.
And central to our vision for a Tiriti-based future, is our commitment to restoring and protecting nature.
Because nature is in crisis.
Just out these doors, and below our feet, in the Hauraki Gulf, the impacts of commercial overfishing and the pollution washing into the water from the land, has brought the ecosystem to the brink.
North and west of here, great kauri are critically threatened.
To the south, unique animals found in no other country, are at risk from the bulldozers of mining companies, unless we protect them.
Four thousand different native species are at risk of extinction in Aotearoa.
Four thousand.
We can turn that around, but it takes commitment. It takes effort. It takes mahitahi. And it takes choices. Choices that put people and planet first, instead of a cynical politics that serves the short-term interests of wealthy donors.
If the government chooses not to prioritise restoring the health of the natural world in its first budget, that shows what they are motivated by, and it shows what kind of world they are prepared to leave to our tamariki.
It is our tamariki and mokopuna that motivate the Greens.
Not just the ones born tomorrow, but those after that, for seven generations down the line.
Sustainability doesnât just mean sustainability for nature, but for people too. This planet is our home. We need it to thrive.
The Greens have always been deeply motivated by care for other people, for communities, for those with us today and for those who will come after us.
We are motivated by every single child who goes to bed hungry tonight.
We are motivated by every single adult who isnât sure how theyâll pay the rent or mortgage next week.
As winter hits, we are motivated by every person who sits in the cold, staring at the heater, knowing they canât afford to turn it on.
Our challenge to the coalition government is to prove that you are motivated by this too.
Choose to do something about it.
The solutions to many of the problems we face in Aotearoa are clear. This week I had the privilege of meeting with rangatahi, and hearing about the solutions they want to see in their communities. They are THE experts in their own experience - and they know they need to be empowered and given better opportunities; not marginalised, patronised, ignored, and punished.
But the coalition government doesnât like those solutions, because they donât fit its agenda. They prefer catch phrases like âsocial investmentâ, to real data and lived experience.
A Government which says it is motivated by evidence-based solutions has cut funding to the world class Growing up in New Zealand study, and continues to ignore the evidence it provides. Like the evidence that 40% of children live in the most deprived areas.
If this government was truly invested in improving social outcomes, it would affirm and resource the experts who know best and have proven the most.
And that includes empowering the people with the lived experience of the systems failing them and their whÄnau. It requires removing all the barriers to wellbeing such as poverty and homelessness. We need to support whole whÄnau, instead of focusing on âfixingâ an individual after theyâve already been broken by poverty and neglect, and expecting them to rise above circumstances of deprivation that we should have all worked together to prevent in the first place. We need the solutions to be grounded in community knowledge and care. I hope this government is open to sitting with kai rangahau MÄori and families to learn more about what really needs to change.
When the Crown has repeatedly failed to be accountable for the harm it has caused to whÄnau MÄori, it is clear that we need an authentic transfer of power and resources - with a partnership of a strong public and social services sector working together, with communities, hapĹŤ and iwi, and whÄnau.
I have seen what works to support people off a destructive path in life. To instead become the best of themselves. There is a mountain of evidence about approaches that work where all other attempts have failed - particularly where there is deep trauma.
These approaches, like Kaupapa MÄori interventions, build the strength of whÄnau and community.
Now for far too long, successive governments have been stuck on catch phrase politics, devoid of evidence or genuine care.
Policies like bootcamps for the young, benefit sanctions for the already struggling, higher criminal penalties - a punitive, petty politics that makes life harder for those already
excluded, and does nothing to keep communities safe and well. This is divisive, stale, cruel and ineffective.
When I have met and listened to the very people at the forefront of this cruelty, the impact has been clear.
Such punitive and dehumanising measures have instead caused even further disconnection and hopelessness. The Greens know that meeting trauma with punishment isnât going to work. I want rangatahi to hear us loud and clear. You matter. Your whÄnau matters. You deserve dignity, a community and a country that sees your strength.
At a basic level, I think we all agree that identifying the causes of persistent hardship, and supporting people to get out of those situations, is a good idea.
And we all agree that the measure of a governmentâs success is whether it achieves outcomes, not how much money it spends on trying.
But the Government isnât actually doing this.
Two weeks ago the Minister of Finance said her government will âuse hard evidence to invest in what works.â
On that same day, the Minister of Social Development announced that people on a benefit will face financial sanctions if they donât attend work seminars.
Let me be clear, work seminars donât help people find jobs theyâre suited for - let alone create meaningful work with decent pay and conditions. The Ministry of Social Development has told the Minister there is no evidence for the governmentâs cruel approach. Sanctions do not make a difference for the number of people moving into paid work.
And the evidence against sanctions is extremely clear.
Financial sanctions for beneficiaries, who already donât have enough income to pay for lifeâs essentials, simply push people into further hardship.
That affects their children, their whÄnau, and their whole communities.
Instead, people need tailored support into work that matches their skills and interests, with a guaranteed income while retraining.
At the same time, the Government needs to invest in creating sustainable jobs that transition our economy away from fossil fuels.
Jobs with decent pay, secure hours and support for people to balance caregiving responsibilities. Jobs that support wellbeing for whÄnau, instead of seeing workers as just a cog in a labour machine.
When the Government rolls out policies like benefit sanctions, they are making a choice to ignore the evidence about the effect of their actions.
And it is our job to expose that.
I cannot say it enough: we have everything we need in Aotearoa for everyone to live a decent life.
We know what people need to rise up out of persistent hardship.
A warm, dry, affordable, and accessible home.
Healthy kai on the table.
The freedom to go to the doctor or the dentist when they need to, without having to worry about the cost.
And next week, the Government has a choice whether to put people at the heart of the budget - or not. If they donât, they are holding back the potential of our people and our communities to thrive.
And we will ask, exactly who are they governing for?
The Greens are here for the many, not just the few.
We carry decades of political leadership with us, starting from the late Jeanette Fitzsimons and Rod Donald, through to our newest co-leader Chloe Swarbrick.
We are here thanks to the thousands upon thousands of volunteers over the last three decades.
The many grassroots-led movements who we are honoured to have worked with for the kaupapa.
We draw our strength from knowing we are powered by the many. This gives us the strength to oppose a government whose sixteen million dollars of political donations got them where they are today.
Thanks to our people-powered campaign, we have our largest Caucus ever.
And it represents Aotearoa more than it ever has before.
Green politics is the alternative to this cynical, cruel coalition government.
And we are only just getting started.
2024.05.19 08:19 Glitch109 [Crossover Worldbuilding Idea] What if the MCU, DCEU, MonsterVerse, Resident Evil (Capcom Games), Avatar: The Last Airbender, Netflix's The Dragon Prince, Vivziepop's Hazbin Hotel/Helluva Boss, and Live Action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are set in the same universe?
Inspired by MichaeltheSpikester's idea of a shared world, decided to add my variation of it. But with extra media that I think would fit well with this shared world.
-Several dimensions that were connected to Earth-199999 are not only the Astral, Dark, Mirror, K'un-Lun, Ta Lo, Duat, etc. but also consisted of Chronobowl (DCEU), Mount Olympus (DCEU), Axis Mundi (MonsterVerse), 4 Nations (Avatar: The Last Airbender), Spirit World (Avatar: The Last Airbender), Xadia (Netflix's The Dragon Prince), Heaven & Hell (Hazbin Hotel/Helluva Boss), and the Kraang Dimension (TMNT).
-The Titan's origins originated from the Celestial Tiamut from the Earth's core with the cosmic energy mutating small creatures into giant monsters. It is revealed that every planet in the universe not only has its celestials but also has its own set of Titans that play a key role in the planet's ecosystem. King Ghidorah is revealed to be one of the last few members of his species who survived his planet's Emergence and the reason why he and his kind terraform worlds is to rebuild the home they lost.
-Heaven and the Kraang played a role in the development of the Human race where it is revealed that Humans have various animal DNA, thus having the dormant gene that ties them to their animal ancestor.
-Lilith would be considered the "First Scarlet Witch".
-Due to Heaven's influence, their magic created the Gods and Goddesses in the universe. Adam would eventually create the Council of Godheads, where he is good friends with Zeus from Thor: Love and Thunder (aka Jupiter, the Roman counterpart of Zeus).
-The celestial's cosmic energy not only created Hollow Earth but also created pockets from the Earth's surface that created portals that allowed access to Hollow Earth from the surface.
-Asgardians, ancient Wakanda, Eternals, and Titans banding together with humanity, ancient Atlantis, ancient Green Lanterns, Olympians, and Themsycira in the fight against Darkseid, Steppenwolf, and their forces in ancient history.
-It is revealed that Titans, such as Sehkmet, Na Kika, and an unnamed Thunderbird Titan are responsible for Bashenga's, Talokanil's, and Chafa's origins and abilities instead of the Gods and Goddesses from Thor: Love and Thunder.
-The Titans and Startouch Elves would be labeled as "low-level" gods by the Council of Godheads.
-Atlantis, Asgard, Themyscira, Heaven, and Olympus (When the Greek Gods were still around) were aware of the existence of Titans and the role they play in the Earth's ecosystem. Similar to Asgardians, Titans were responsible for many legends and myths regarding mythical creatures and gods. The relationship between them and benevolent titans would be at best mutual notably towards those like Godzilla and Mothra but otherwise would be at odds with destroyer titans like Rodan and Scylla.
-The Eternals are aware of the Titans as well. Ikaris proposed killing them since they would be affecting the Earth's population and preventing the Emergence from progressing. However, Ajak talked him out of it as they observed Godzilla's species preserving the balance of nature, keeping the population steadying, keeping the other Titans at bay, and hunting/killing giant Deviants as well.
-The Eternals once met with Mothra, who Sersi and Sprite formed a close bond with.
-The animalistic Egyptian Gods and Goddesses (Khonshu, Anubis, Ammit, Tawaret, Horus, etc.) were once human-looking Gods/Goddesses before being exposed to the Kraang's Ooze, which mutated them into more animalistic creatures.
-Godzilla has a mixed relationship with the Eternals. While he approves them for keeping the Earth safe, he doesn't trust them due to their "unnatural" nature due to being from space, which is the same with King Ghidorah.
-Prior to his arrival on earth. King Ghidorah had a fearful reputation across the cosmos by civilizations, similar to that of Darkseid and Thanos.
-Both Thor and Rodan once fought each other in the past when Rodan at some point appeared in Scandinavia and terrorized the people, which prompted the Thunder God to engage. It was a long, withdrawn, and lengthy battle that eventually ended with Thor finally driving Rodan off. Like many legends and myths, this fight inspired one of those about Thor fighting a "Great Bird of Fire".
-Shazam was the first Sorcerer Supreme and taught the Ancient One magic.
-Wonder Woman and the original Shazam took part in imprisoning Ammit alongside the other Egyptian Gods and Goddesses.
-The radiation of Hollow Earth caused certain viruses and organisms to become more hostile when infecting their host while granting them various abilities. Examples include the T-Virus and the E-Series mold.
-Both Asgard and Mount Olympus are aware of Aaravos and his past crimes.
-The Ancient One visited both Xadia and the 4 nations once to learn more about both world's magic. The Ancient One also helped in imprisoning Aaravos.
-While Xadia is aware of dark magic, they are unaware of the Dark Dimension and Dormammu.
-King Ghidorah was without a doubt probably the only being that Darkseid and Thanos had ever developed a grudging respect. Both warlords are aware of King Ghidorah due to being just as feared by civilizations across the cosmos as they are. Despite classing Titans as "low-level" gods, the Council of Godheads also feared King Ghidorah due to his destructive nature.
-The Necrosword is made of the same metallic material used by the Exorcist Angels during their exterminations.
-Wonder Woman's presence in World War I inspired Johann Schmidt (aka Red Skull) to pursue mythology in hopes of creating weaponry for HYDRA.
-Captain America and Wonder Woman met during World War II when Steve was doing his USO Show.
-SHIELD is aware of Monarch and STAR Labs and has often collaborated with each other in the past.
-Packard is a relative of Nick Fury.
-Asgard and Krypton having had a history with one another and the former having tried to warn the latter of their inevitable doom, but were dismissed.
-Prior to Krypton's destruction. Zod and his soldiers had a run-in with Yondu and the Ravagers.
-Both SHIELD and Nick Fury were not only aware of the Titan's existence but also aware of Superman's arrival on Earth and kept close tabs on him since he was a child.
-Both Superman and Chris Redfield were Captain America fans when younger.
-After the T-Virus Incident in Raccoon City, SHIELD and Monarch helped with the clean-up.
-Bruce Wayne, William Stenz, Amanda Waller, and Chris Redfield were all targets of Project Insight.
-Alongside SHIELD, STAR Labs, B.S.A.A., and Monarch were all infiltrated by HYDRA Agents who sought their resources. They stole various technological weapons created by the Motherbox, samples of the T-Virus, and stole Titan DNA to create Titan clones.
-After the Turtles made their debut, SHIELD and Monarch kept close eye on them based on their mutation.
-After the Civil War, Amanda Waller proposed Task Force X to the government, in which Theaddeus Ross was among those who approved it while William Stenz opposed it. Abomination and Baron Zemo were among the possible candidates for Task Force X.
-Task Force X and Monarch weren't affected by the Sokovia Accords due to their connections with the government.
-After the Baker House Incident, SHIELD and Monarch not only helped clean up the situation but also got clues on the E-Series's origin. Not trusting the B.S.A.A. or Blue Umbrella, they gave the info to Chris, which led to his isolation from both organizations.
-Talokan would be considered one of the Kingdoms of Atlantis. Ocean Master would later try to recruit Namor, but decides not to as he was warned by the other rulers that Namor is more dangerous than Ocean Master himself.
-Karathen is revealed to be one of the lost Titans of Earth.
-Wakanda is aware of the existence of Atlantis but their ancestors have made a treaty with each other in not interfering. After the events of Aquaman, both T'Challa and Arthur meet in secret to discuss how to unite their kingdoms together and reveal their secret to the world. While Arthur respects T'Challa, he wants to keep Atlantis a secret until the time is right.
-Katolis would be aware of various magical humans such as Original Shazam and the Ancient One.
-Clark Kent/Superman, Diana Prince/Wonder Woman, Billy Batson/Shazam, and Mothra are beings capable of lifting Mjolnir.
-At the Senate hearing, alongside Serizawa, Nick Fury and Calvin Swanwick (Martian Manhunter) are among those who defended the Titans while Thaddeus Ross and Amanda Waller voiced against them.
-After the Titans were released, several Titans, such as Titanus Sehkmet, Behemoth, and Mokele-Mbembe all resided near Wakanda and all bonded with T'Challa/Black Panther while Titans such as Titanus Na Kika, Tiamat, and Amhuluk all resided near Talokan and bond with Namor.
-By the end of Infinity War and during the events of Endgame. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Lois Lane, Martian Manhunter, Joker, Lex Luthor, Black Mask, Victor Zsasz, Black Canary, Renee Montoya, Huntress, Cassandra Cain, Bruce the Hyena, Bloodsport, Harley Quinn, Rick Flagg, King Shark, Ratcatcher 2 and Sebastian, Polka-Dot Man, Captain Boomerang, Savant, Javelin, Blackguard, Mongal, T.D.K., Weasel, Thinker, Billy Batson/Shazam, Billy's foster parents and siblings, Amanda Waller, Emilia Harcourt, John Economos, Adebayo Waller, Clemson Murn/Ik Nobe Llok, Goff/Sophie Song/Eek Stack Ik Ik, Casper Locke, Larry Fitzgibbon, James Gordon, Atlanna, Mera, Arthur Jr., Starro, Peacemaker, White Dragon, Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Cyclone, Atom Smasher, Adrianna Tomaz, Karim, Amon Tomaz, Ishmael GregoSabbac, Blue Beetle and the Reyes family, Victoria and Jenny Kord, Carapax, Madison Russell, Mark Russell, Illene Chen, Houston Brooks, Sam Coleman, Nathan Lind, Illene Andrews, Jia, Josh Valentine, Bernie Hayes, Travis Beasley/Trapper, Walter and Maia Simmons, Ren Serizawa, Alan Jonah, Godzilla, Kong, half of the known titans, Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Claire Redfield, Ethan Winters, Mia Winters, Zoe Baker, Joe Baker, Mother Miranda, Karl Heisenberg, Lady Dimitrescu, Salvatore Moreau, Donna Beneviento, The Duke, Chris's Team, the Turtles, and Baxter Stockman would be amongst the survivors of The Blip.
-Flash, Cyborg, Aquaman, Perry White, Martha Kent, Stephen Shin, Deadshot, Deathstroke, Katana, Killer Croc, Ling Chen, Rick Stanton, Diane Foster, Jackson Barnes, Anthony Martinez, Lauren Griffin, Rodan, other half of the known titans, Jill Valentine, Ada Wong, Sensei Splinter, Bebop, and Rocksteady were amongst the victims of The Blip.
-Similar to Scott Lang, Black Adam, Mothra, Khaji-Da, and the inhabitants of the 4 nations, Xadia, Heaven, and Hell would not be affected by the Blip.
-The only beings that sensed the Blip were the Avatar (Aang), The Archdragons of Xadia (Zubeia, Rex Igneous, Domina Profundis, and Sol Regem), the Seraphim (Sera and Emily), the Goetian Hierarchy (Stolas and Octavia), and the 7 Deadly Sins (Lucifer Morningstar, Asmodeus, Satan, Mammon, Beelzebub, Leviathan, and Belphegor).
-The victims of the Blip weren't sent to Heaven or Hell, they were stuck in Limbo.
-During the post-Blip, due to Thanos' actions, Godzilla had a hard time in trying to keep balance of the Earth with half of the remaining titans running loose. Due to the world powers struggling, they helped fund Apex Cybernetics to stabilize their economy as well as unknowingly helping Walter process with his Mechagodzilla experiment.
-Because of Thanos, the Corto Maltese government took advantage of this by continuing their experiments with Project Starfish and the Intergang were able to operate and have full control over Kahndaq. Many crime organizations in Gotham have either been dismantled due to the disappearance of the leaders or have been absorbed into the Black Mask Crime Organization. Jaime's family and his community go through financial struggles from Kord Industries due to the effects of the Blip.
-Due to less hero activity, the I.M.P.s operated their assassination business.
-Kingpin met with Joker and Black Mask during the Blip where the 2 made mutual agreements in developing a partnership. However, this agreement was broken due to Black Mask's death.
-The Joker was on Ronan's list of targets. However, due to his powerful influence, he was forced to back down.
-Due to the effects of the Blip, the butterflies decided to start their invasion by infecting powerful humans.
-After the Village's destruction, SHIELD aids Chris in a war against B.S.A.A.
-After Doctor Fate's death, Hawkman gives the Helmet of Fate to Kamar-Taj for safekeeping so it doesn't fall into the wrong hands.
-The Avengers and Justice League team up and join the time heist to find the Infinity Stones. With Iron Man's and Batman's technology, they create a black and red infinity gauntlet. Hulk still snaps his fingers which brings every living being back. During the final battle with Thanos, the Justice Society, Black Adam, Godzilla, and the other Titans arrive to join in the fight.
-Victoria Kord and Walter Simmons are among the many people who also had a hatred towards Tony Stark and are joyful about his death.
-After the events of Blue Beetle, Damage Control tried to apprehend him but was forced to back down due to public support.
-Godzilla would grow hostile towards the Hex that Wanda made. Due to being composed of cosmic radiation from the celestial, Godzilla and the other Titans are revealed to be immune to magic due to their massive size as well as not being affected by the Hex's effects. However, once Wanda leaves Westview, Godzilla will leave as well.
-After Endgame, Apex Cybernetics not only seeks to eliminate Titans but also superpowered individuals as well. After the events of GvK, Damage Control cleaned up the damage and acquired their resources.
-Among the deceased that would be in Heaven based on Adam's rule: "Act selfless, Don't Steal, and Stick it to the man" would be Tony Stark/Iron Man, Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow, Peggy Carter, Ancient One, Ben Parker, May Parker, Pietro Maximoff/Quicksilver, Phil Coulson, Steve Trevor, Jonathan Kent, Chato Santana/El Diablo, Silas Stone, Rick Flag, Alberto Reyes, JosĂŠ Morales, Ignacio Carapax/OMAC, and Nuidis Vulko.
-Among the deceased that would be in Hell and have the potential to become Overlords are Obadiah Stane/Iron Monger, Ivan Vanko/Whiplash, TrevoThe Mandarin, Alexander Pierce, Dreykov, Xu Wenwu, Quentin Beck/Mysterio, Roman Sionis/Black Mask, Victor Zsaasz, David Kane/Black Manta, and Walter Simmons.
-Wanting to reconnect with his daughter, Mark Russell resigns his position as leader of Monarch and Bruce BanneHulk becomes the next head of Monarch due to his knowledge of Nuclear Physics.
-Both the Great Protector and Dweller-in-Darkness are revealed to be Titans who stumbled upon Ta Lo.
-In Xadia, Viren was resurrected 5 years later rather than 2 (Events of S1-3 take place in 2019-and S4-6 take place in 2024).
-Due to the effects of the Emergence and the Deviants, Godzilla would ally with the Eternals in hunting down and killing the Deviants as well as stopping the Emergence from happening.
-The Benevolent Titans have gained a reputation due to their involvement in keeping the planet safe and healthy.
-Driven by vengeance, Overlord Quentin Beck/Mysterio pays the I.M.P.s to assassinate Peter ParkeSpider-Man. However, this is during the events of No Way Home and when Doctor Strange performs the spell that erases everyone's memory of who Spider-Man is, the I.M.P.s were affected as well and called the mission off due to their amnesia.
-Maya Lopez's/Echo's Powers awaken the ancient Thunderbird Titan that lives near her hometown. She successfully bonds with the Titan.
-Ms. Marvel would not only be a Captain Marvel fan but also a Wonder Woman and Mothra fan as well.
-Riri Williams is a huge fan of both Iron Man and Cyborg which influenced her to create her own enhanced suits. While she has an intense hatred towards Apex Cybernetics after their dirty secrets were exposed, Riri started making concepts on how to build a giant-mech suit to combat hostile Titans.
-Thor recruits Wonder Woman and the Shazam family to help them stop Gorr the God Butcher. They arrive at Omnipotence City where Wonder Woman exposes the Greek Gods being the Roman counterparts with Zeus' real identity revealed to be Jupiter. After the mission, Thor gives Shazam the Thunderbolt.
-Wonder Woman then encounters Marc SpecteMoon Knight where she sees and speaks with Khonshu.
-When Doctor Strange and America Chavez arrive on Earth-838, they meet the Illuminati which not only consists of Captain Carter, Blackbolt, Captain Marvel (Maria Rambeau), and Mister Fantastic but also consists of Christian Bale's Batman and Brandon Routh's Superman.
-Same with Wakanda, the U.N. held a conference on whether the Titans should be contained or killed. Director Fontaine would state that the Titan's radiation helps balance the ecosystem of the planet and propose a solution where they can imprison the Titans and drain this energy they embody to help sustain the ecosystem, thus having them alive, but tortured.
-After Shuri takes the heart-shaped herb and becomes the next Black Panther, she communicates with Sehkmet, Behemoth, and Mokele-Mbembe for the first time. She convinces them to take part in the battle against Namor by battling against Na Kika, Tiamat, and Amhuluk.
-After the battle, Wakanda becomes harmonious with their Titans as they are welcomed in Wakanda and become its protectors alongside Shuri.
-After the alliance with Talokan, Aquaman visits Shuri on the same beach where she meets her nephew, T'Challa II, and warns her about her deal with Namor. Then he introduces his son, Arthur Jr., where he and T'Challa II develop a brotherly bond with each other.
-Due to the Secret Invasion, Superman was affected by the Anti-Alien Act and was forced into hiding.
-During the events of Secret Invasion, the Turtles were forced into hiding due to being confused for Skrulls.
-After the events of The Flash, Doctor Strange and Clea confront him that his actions in altering time created more incursions and recruit him to have them fixed.
-After the events of the Marvels, Monica Rambeau not only meets Binary and Beast but also meets Michael Keaton's Batman and Sasha Calle's Supergirl.
-After the events of Lost Kingdom, Atlantis revealed its existence to the world by joining alliances with the UN and Wakanda.
-Ms. Marvel's Quantum Bands and Shang-Chi's Ten Rings start behaving weirdly as they detect a signal from deep within Hollow Earth, signifying a war cry from ancient Titans known as the Skar King and Shimo.
-As Namor is preparing for the war against the surface by aligning themselves with Wakanda, he commands the Titans he bonded to gain strength. However, one of the Titans, Tiamat, is killed by Godzilla, and Namor is saddened when hearing the news.
-Ms. Marvel's Quantum Bands attracts the attention of Mothra, who believes that Mothra may be the key to bringing back Monica Rambaeu.
-The Avatar's (Aang) awakening was sensed by Doctor Strange.
Overall, this is my take on how this shared world would go. If you have any suggestions on how the shared world would go, feel free to reply!
Special thanks to MichaeltheSpikester for the idea!
submitted by Glitch109 to WhatIfFiction [link] [comments]
-Several dimensions that were connected to Earth-199999 are not only the Astral, Dark, Mirror, K'un-Lun, Ta Lo, Duat, etc. but also consisted of Chronobowl (DCEU), Mount Olympus (DCEU), Axis Mundi (MonsterVerse), 4 Nations (Avatar: The Last Airbender), Spirit World (Avatar: The Last Airbender), Xadia (Netflix's The Dragon Prince), Heaven & Hell (Hazbin Hotel/Helluva Boss), and the Kraang Dimension (TMNT).
-The Titan's origins originated from the Celestial Tiamut from the Earth's core with the cosmic energy mutating small creatures into giant monsters. It is revealed that every planet in the universe not only has its celestials but also has its own set of Titans that play a key role in the planet's ecosystem. King Ghidorah is revealed to be one of the last few members of his species who survived his planet's Emergence and the reason why he and his kind terraform worlds is to rebuild the home they lost.
-Heaven and the Kraang played a role in the development of the Human race where it is revealed that Humans have various animal DNA, thus having the dormant gene that ties them to their animal ancestor.
-Lilith would be considered the "First Scarlet Witch".
-Due to Heaven's influence, their magic created the Gods and Goddesses in the universe. Adam would eventually create the Council of Godheads, where he is good friends with Zeus from Thor: Love and Thunder (aka Jupiter, the Roman counterpart of Zeus).
-The celestial's cosmic energy not only created Hollow Earth but also created pockets from the Earth's surface that created portals that allowed access to Hollow Earth from the surface.
-Asgardians, ancient Wakanda, Eternals, and Titans banding together with humanity, ancient Atlantis, ancient Green Lanterns, Olympians, and Themsycira in the fight against Darkseid, Steppenwolf, and their forces in ancient history.
-It is revealed that Titans, such as Sehkmet, Na Kika, and an unnamed Thunderbird Titan are responsible for Bashenga's, Talokanil's, and Chafa's origins and abilities instead of the Gods and Goddesses from Thor: Love and Thunder.
-The Titans and Startouch Elves would be labeled as "low-level" gods by the Council of Godheads.
-Atlantis, Asgard, Themyscira, Heaven, and Olympus (When the Greek Gods were still around) were aware of the existence of Titans and the role they play in the Earth's ecosystem. Similar to Asgardians, Titans were responsible for many legends and myths regarding mythical creatures and gods. The relationship between them and benevolent titans would be at best mutual notably towards those like Godzilla and Mothra but otherwise would be at odds with destroyer titans like Rodan and Scylla.
-The Eternals are aware of the Titans as well. Ikaris proposed killing them since they would be affecting the Earth's population and preventing the Emergence from progressing. However, Ajak talked him out of it as they observed Godzilla's species preserving the balance of nature, keeping the population steadying, keeping the other Titans at bay, and hunting/killing giant Deviants as well.
-The Eternals once met with Mothra, who Sersi and Sprite formed a close bond with.
-The animalistic Egyptian Gods and Goddesses (Khonshu, Anubis, Ammit, Tawaret, Horus, etc.) were once human-looking Gods/Goddesses before being exposed to the Kraang's Ooze, which mutated them into more animalistic creatures.
-Godzilla has a mixed relationship with the Eternals. While he approves them for keeping the Earth safe, he doesn't trust them due to their "unnatural" nature due to being from space, which is the same with King Ghidorah.
-Prior to his arrival on earth. King Ghidorah had a fearful reputation across the cosmos by civilizations, similar to that of Darkseid and Thanos.
-Both Thor and Rodan once fought each other in the past when Rodan at some point appeared in Scandinavia and terrorized the people, which prompted the Thunder God to engage. It was a long, withdrawn, and lengthy battle that eventually ended with Thor finally driving Rodan off. Like many legends and myths, this fight inspired one of those about Thor fighting a "Great Bird of Fire".
-Shazam was the first Sorcerer Supreme and taught the Ancient One magic.
-Wonder Woman and the original Shazam took part in imprisoning Ammit alongside the other Egyptian Gods and Goddesses.
-The radiation of Hollow Earth caused certain viruses and organisms to become more hostile when infecting their host while granting them various abilities. Examples include the T-Virus and the E-Series mold.
-Both Asgard and Mount Olympus are aware of Aaravos and his past crimes.
-The Ancient One visited both Xadia and the 4 nations once to learn more about both world's magic. The Ancient One also helped in imprisoning Aaravos.
-While Xadia is aware of dark magic, they are unaware of the Dark Dimension and Dormammu.
-King Ghidorah was without a doubt probably the only being that Darkseid and Thanos had ever developed a grudging respect. Both warlords are aware of King Ghidorah due to being just as feared by civilizations across the cosmos as they are. Despite classing Titans as "low-level" gods, the Council of Godheads also feared King Ghidorah due to his destructive nature.
-The Necrosword is made of the same metallic material used by the Exorcist Angels during their exterminations.
-Wonder Woman's presence in World War I inspired Johann Schmidt (aka Red Skull) to pursue mythology in hopes of creating weaponry for HYDRA.
-Captain America and Wonder Woman met during World War II when Steve was doing his USO Show.
-SHIELD is aware of Monarch and STAR Labs and has often collaborated with each other in the past.
-Packard is a relative of Nick Fury.
-Asgard and Krypton having had a history with one another and the former having tried to warn the latter of their inevitable doom, but were dismissed.
-Prior to Krypton's destruction. Zod and his soldiers had a run-in with Yondu and the Ravagers.
-Both SHIELD and Nick Fury were not only aware of the Titan's existence but also aware of Superman's arrival on Earth and kept close tabs on him since he was a child.
-Both Superman and Chris Redfield were Captain America fans when younger.
-After the T-Virus Incident in Raccoon City, SHIELD and Monarch helped with the clean-up.
-Bruce Wayne, William Stenz, Amanda Waller, and Chris Redfield were all targets of Project Insight.
-Alongside SHIELD, STAR Labs, B.S.A.A., and Monarch were all infiltrated by HYDRA Agents who sought their resources. They stole various technological weapons created by the Motherbox, samples of the T-Virus, and stole Titan DNA to create Titan clones.
-After the Turtles made their debut, SHIELD and Monarch kept close eye on them based on their mutation.
-After the Civil War, Amanda Waller proposed Task Force X to the government, in which Theaddeus Ross was among those who approved it while William Stenz opposed it. Abomination and Baron Zemo were among the possible candidates for Task Force X.
-Task Force X and Monarch weren't affected by the Sokovia Accords due to their connections with the government.
-After the Baker House Incident, SHIELD and Monarch not only helped clean up the situation but also got clues on the E-Series's origin. Not trusting the B.S.A.A. or Blue Umbrella, they gave the info to Chris, which led to his isolation from both organizations.
-Talokan would be considered one of the Kingdoms of Atlantis. Ocean Master would later try to recruit Namor, but decides not to as he was warned by the other rulers that Namor is more dangerous than Ocean Master himself.
-Karathen is revealed to be one of the lost Titans of Earth.
-Wakanda is aware of the existence of Atlantis but their ancestors have made a treaty with each other in not interfering. After the events of Aquaman, both T'Challa and Arthur meet in secret to discuss how to unite their kingdoms together and reveal their secret to the world. While Arthur respects T'Challa, he wants to keep Atlantis a secret until the time is right.
-Katolis would be aware of various magical humans such as Original Shazam and the Ancient One.
-Clark Kent/Superman, Diana Prince/Wonder Woman, Billy Batson/Shazam, and Mothra are beings capable of lifting Mjolnir.
-At the Senate hearing, alongside Serizawa, Nick Fury and Calvin Swanwick (Martian Manhunter) are among those who defended the Titans while Thaddeus Ross and Amanda Waller voiced against them.
-After the Titans were released, several Titans, such as Titanus Sehkmet, Behemoth, and Mokele-Mbembe all resided near Wakanda and all bonded with T'Challa/Black Panther while Titans such as Titanus Na Kika, Tiamat, and Amhuluk all resided near Talokan and bond with Namor.
-By the end of Infinity War and during the events of Endgame. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Lois Lane, Martian Manhunter, Joker, Lex Luthor, Black Mask, Victor Zsasz, Black Canary, Renee Montoya, Huntress, Cassandra Cain, Bruce the Hyena, Bloodsport, Harley Quinn, Rick Flagg, King Shark, Ratcatcher 2 and Sebastian, Polka-Dot Man, Captain Boomerang, Savant, Javelin, Blackguard, Mongal, T.D.K., Weasel, Thinker, Billy Batson/Shazam, Billy's foster parents and siblings, Amanda Waller, Emilia Harcourt, John Economos, Adebayo Waller, Clemson Murn/Ik Nobe Llok, Goff/Sophie Song/Eek Stack Ik Ik, Casper Locke, Larry Fitzgibbon, James Gordon, Atlanna, Mera, Arthur Jr., Starro, Peacemaker, White Dragon, Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Cyclone, Atom Smasher, Adrianna Tomaz, Karim, Amon Tomaz, Ishmael GregoSabbac, Blue Beetle and the Reyes family, Victoria and Jenny Kord, Carapax, Madison Russell, Mark Russell, Illene Chen, Houston Brooks, Sam Coleman, Nathan Lind, Illene Andrews, Jia, Josh Valentine, Bernie Hayes, Travis Beasley/Trapper, Walter and Maia Simmons, Ren Serizawa, Alan Jonah, Godzilla, Kong, half of the known titans, Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Claire Redfield, Ethan Winters, Mia Winters, Zoe Baker, Joe Baker, Mother Miranda, Karl Heisenberg, Lady Dimitrescu, Salvatore Moreau, Donna Beneviento, The Duke, Chris's Team, the Turtles, and Baxter Stockman would be amongst the survivors of The Blip.
-Flash, Cyborg, Aquaman, Perry White, Martha Kent, Stephen Shin, Deadshot, Deathstroke, Katana, Killer Croc, Ling Chen, Rick Stanton, Diane Foster, Jackson Barnes, Anthony Martinez, Lauren Griffin, Rodan, other half of the known titans, Jill Valentine, Ada Wong, Sensei Splinter, Bebop, and Rocksteady were amongst the victims of The Blip.
-Similar to Scott Lang, Black Adam, Mothra, Khaji-Da, and the inhabitants of the 4 nations, Xadia, Heaven, and Hell would not be affected by the Blip.
-The only beings that sensed the Blip were the Avatar (Aang), The Archdragons of Xadia (Zubeia, Rex Igneous, Domina Profundis, and Sol Regem), the Seraphim (Sera and Emily), the Goetian Hierarchy (Stolas and Octavia), and the 7 Deadly Sins (Lucifer Morningstar, Asmodeus, Satan, Mammon, Beelzebub, Leviathan, and Belphegor).
-The victims of the Blip weren't sent to Heaven or Hell, they were stuck in Limbo.
-During the post-Blip, due to Thanos' actions, Godzilla had a hard time in trying to keep balance of the Earth with half of the remaining titans running loose. Due to the world powers struggling, they helped fund Apex Cybernetics to stabilize their economy as well as unknowingly helping Walter process with his Mechagodzilla experiment.
-Because of Thanos, the Corto Maltese government took advantage of this by continuing their experiments with Project Starfish and the Intergang were able to operate and have full control over Kahndaq. Many crime organizations in Gotham have either been dismantled due to the disappearance of the leaders or have been absorbed into the Black Mask Crime Organization. Jaime's family and his community go through financial struggles from Kord Industries due to the effects of the Blip.
-Due to less hero activity, the I.M.P.s operated their assassination business.
-Kingpin met with Joker and Black Mask during the Blip where the 2 made mutual agreements in developing a partnership. However, this agreement was broken due to Black Mask's death.
-The Joker was on Ronan's list of targets. However, due to his powerful influence, he was forced to back down.
-Due to the effects of the Blip, the butterflies decided to start their invasion by infecting powerful humans.
-After the Village's destruction, SHIELD aids Chris in a war against B.S.A.A.
-After Doctor Fate's death, Hawkman gives the Helmet of Fate to Kamar-Taj for safekeeping so it doesn't fall into the wrong hands.
-The Avengers and Justice League team up and join the time heist to find the Infinity Stones. With Iron Man's and Batman's technology, they create a black and red infinity gauntlet. Hulk still snaps his fingers which brings every living being back. During the final battle with Thanos, the Justice Society, Black Adam, Godzilla, and the other Titans arrive to join in the fight.
-Victoria Kord and Walter Simmons are among the many people who also had a hatred towards Tony Stark and are joyful about his death.
-After the events of Blue Beetle, Damage Control tried to apprehend him but was forced to back down due to public support.
-Godzilla would grow hostile towards the Hex that Wanda made. Due to being composed of cosmic radiation from the celestial, Godzilla and the other Titans are revealed to be immune to magic due to their massive size as well as not being affected by the Hex's effects. However, once Wanda leaves Westview, Godzilla will leave as well.
-After Endgame, Apex Cybernetics not only seeks to eliminate Titans but also superpowered individuals as well. After the events of GvK, Damage Control cleaned up the damage and acquired their resources.
-Among the deceased that would be in Heaven based on Adam's rule: "Act selfless, Don't Steal, and Stick it to the man" would be Tony Stark/Iron Man, Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow, Peggy Carter, Ancient One, Ben Parker, May Parker, Pietro Maximoff/Quicksilver, Phil Coulson, Steve Trevor, Jonathan Kent, Chato Santana/El Diablo, Silas Stone, Rick Flag, Alberto Reyes, JosĂŠ Morales, Ignacio Carapax/OMAC, and Nuidis Vulko.
-Among the deceased that would be in Hell and have the potential to become Overlords are Obadiah Stane/Iron Monger, Ivan Vanko/Whiplash, TrevoThe Mandarin, Alexander Pierce, Dreykov, Xu Wenwu, Quentin Beck/Mysterio, Roman Sionis/Black Mask, Victor Zsaasz, David Kane/Black Manta, and Walter Simmons.
-Wanting to reconnect with his daughter, Mark Russell resigns his position as leader of Monarch and Bruce BanneHulk becomes the next head of Monarch due to his knowledge of Nuclear Physics.
-Both the Great Protector and Dweller-in-Darkness are revealed to be Titans who stumbled upon Ta Lo.
-In Xadia, Viren was resurrected 5 years later rather than 2 (Events of S1-3 take place in 2019-and S4-6 take place in 2024).
-Due to the effects of the Emergence and the Deviants, Godzilla would ally with the Eternals in hunting down and killing the Deviants as well as stopping the Emergence from happening.
-The Benevolent Titans have gained a reputation due to their involvement in keeping the planet safe and healthy.
-Driven by vengeance, Overlord Quentin Beck/Mysterio pays the I.M.P.s to assassinate Peter ParkeSpider-Man. However, this is during the events of No Way Home and when Doctor Strange performs the spell that erases everyone's memory of who Spider-Man is, the I.M.P.s were affected as well and called the mission off due to their amnesia.
-Maya Lopez's/Echo's Powers awaken the ancient Thunderbird Titan that lives near her hometown. She successfully bonds with the Titan.
-Ms. Marvel would not only be a Captain Marvel fan but also a Wonder Woman and Mothra fan as well.
-Riri Williams is a huge fan of both Iron Man and Cyborg which influenced her to create her own enhanced suits. While she has an intense hatred towards Apex Cybernetics after their dirty secrets were exposed, Riri started making concepts on how to build a giant-mech suit to combat hostile Titans.
-Thor recruits Wonder Woman and the Shazam family to help them stop Gorr the God Butcher. They arrive at Omnipotence City where Wonder Woman exposes the Greek Gods being the Roman counterparts with Zeus' real identity revealed to be Jupiter. After the mission, Thor gives Shazam the Thunderbolt.
-Wonder Woman then encounters Marc SpecteMoon Knight where she sees and speaks with Khonshu.
-When Doctor Strange and America Chavez arrive on Earth-838, they meet the Illuminati which not only consists of Captain Carter, Blackbolt, Captain Marvel (Maria Rambeau), and Mister Fantastic but also consists of Christian Bale's Batman and Brandon Routh's Superman.
-Same with Wakanda, the U.N. held a conference on whether the Titans should be contained or killed. Director Fontaine would state that the Titan's radiation helps balance the ecosystem of the planet and propose a solution where they can imprison the Titans and drain this energy they embody to help sustain the ecosystem, thus having them alive, but tortured.
-After Shuri takes the heart-shaped herb and becomes the next Black Panther, she communicates with Sehkmet, Behemoth, and Mokele-Mbembe for the first time. She convinces them to take part in the battle against Namor by battling against Na Kika, Tiamat, and Amhuluk.
-After the battle, Wakanda becomes harmonious with their Titans as they are welcomed in Wakanda and become its protectors alongside Shuri.
-After the alliance with Talokan, Aquaman visits Shuri on the same beach where she meets her nephew, T'Challa II, and warns her about her deal with Namor. Then he introduces his son, Arthur Jr., where he and T'Challa II develop a brotherly bond with each other.
-Due to the Secret Invasion, Superman was affected by the Anti-Alien Act and was forced into hiding.
-During the events of Secret Invasion, the Turtles were forced into hiding due to being confused for Skrulls.
-After the events of The Flash, Doctor Strange and Clea confront him that his actions in altering time created more incursions and recruit him to have them fixed.
-After the events of the Marvels, Monica Rambeau not only meets Binary and Beast but also meets Michael Keaton's Batman and Sasha Calle's Supergirl.
-After the events of Lost Kingdom, Atlantis revealed its existence to the world by joining alliances with the UN and Wakanda.
-Ms. Marvel's Quantum Bands and Shang-Chi's Ten Rings start behaving weirdly as they detect a signal from deep within Hollow Earth, signifying a war cry from ancient Titans known as the Skar King and Shimo.
-As Namor is preparing for the war against the surface by aligning themselves with Wakanda, he commands the Titans he bonded to gain strength. However, one of the Titans, Tiamat, is killed by Godzilla, and Namor is saddened when hearing the news.
-Ms. Marvel's Quantum Bands attracts the attention of Mothra, who believes that Mothra may be the key to bringing back Monica Rambaeu.
-The Avatar's (Aang) awakening was sensed by Doctor Strange.
Overall, this is my take on how this shared world would go. If you have any suggestions on how the shared world would go, feel free to reply!
Special thanks to MichaeltheSpikester for the idea!
2024.05.19 08:12 XFlame05 Love this meta
 | submitted by XFlame05 to stunfisk [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 08:10 Wild_Garage_1471 Shortness of breath and heart pressure when moving
Hello people, I am a 22 years old male and I am very curious what youâd say is wrong with me. I am going to see a cardiologist but my appointment is a month away as cardiologist are extremely busy in my country idk why, but what can it be?. So, itâs very hard to describe but I will do my best. Every time I get out of a car, I stand up, and I have extreme tightness in my chest Iâd say is even directly on my heart, I feel the pressure in my arms and ears aswell sometimes. Also my heart is beating stronger to the point I can hear or feel it sometimes. And this is going on basically every time I get up from my chair, bed whatever really. Itâs annoying and I feel like Iâm having a heart attack sometimes. Iâm not overweight my bmi is good but Iâd say Iâm in a pretty bad shape physically as Iâve been working from home for the last two years and I stopped exercising in my 20s but I have been active all my life.
submitted by Wild_Garage_1471 to AskDocs [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 08:08 DepartmentEcstatic YESTERDAY was my day everyone!
Explant and lift of 400 mL Mentor silicone. Today has been rough, and I have been having sneezing fits lol, which are very painful!! Zyrtec has not helped.
I honestly have a lot of mixed feelings so far. It took me 6 years to choose a surgeon and I traveled out of state. I had an overall good experience, and my nurses and the support staff was all wonderful, however, I wish my surgeon had taken more time to explain things to me as far as how things will look after and what she will do. I felt like everything was so rushed and I was given so much great pre and post op info, but not actual info about my procedure.
I have a list of questions to ask my surgeon on Monday. I haven't seen my breasts yet and am all wrapped up and I can't help but worry. I noticed that her markings were very high nipples on the OR and I asked about this and she said she would make them a little lower as I had stretch marks on the upper part of my breasts and I didn't want the areola to be in the stretch marks...I just feel like that stuff should have been talked about first. Not as I was about to get put to sleep! It just moved way too fast.
I'm grateful it's over, and just hoping that that is just her style and she has such beautiful before and after photos and many happy patients on the support groups so I'm trying to let go and say what's done is done and trust that she used her expertise to do the best job on me as possible and that I will be happy with the outcome.
I'm draining a lot on my first day and the pain and pressure is a lot. I know the first few days are usually the worst and I'm only 32 hours out from surgery. Happy to share any info and wishing health and fast healing to all the ladies going through this with me!!
submitted by DepartmentEcstatic to ExplantSurgery [link] [comments]
I honestly have a lot of mixed feelings so far. It took me 6 years to choose a surgeon and I traveled out of state. I had an overall good experience, and my nurses and the support staff was all wonderful, however, I wish my surgeon had taken more time to explain things to me as far as how things will look after and what she will do. I felt like everything was so rushed and I was given so much great pre and post op info, but not actual info about my procedure.
I have a list of questions to ask my surgeon on Monday. I haven't seen my breasts yet and am all wrapped up and I can't help but worry. I noticed that her markings were very high nipples on the OR and I asked about this and she said she would make them a little lower as I had stretch marks on the upper part of my breasts and I didn't want the areola to be in the stretch marks...I just feel like that stuff should have been talked about first. Not as I was about to get put to sleep! It just moved way too fast.
I'm grateful it's over, and just hoping that that is just her style and she has such beautiful before and after photos and many happy patients on the support groups so I'm trying to let go and say what's done is done and trust that she used her expertise to do the best job on me as possible and that I will be happy with the outcome.
I'm draining a lot on my first day and the pain and pressure is a lot. I know the first few days are usually the worst and I'm only 32 hours out from surgery. Happy to share any info and wishing health and fast healing to all the ladies going through this with me!!
2024.05.19 08:06 Mantis_Shrimp47 The monster in the sand dunes turned my brother into a bird
"You gotta know that there's an art to it, Ezra," Hitch said, cutting another piece of duct tape.
The sleeves of his weather-beaten coat were shoved all the way up his arms, to stop the fabric from falling over his knuckles while he was working, and goosebumps lined his skin. He was strapping a rubber chicken to the back of his truck, over the lens of the shattered backup camera, with the legs pointing down so that they hung a couple inches above the ground. There were dents in the hood from the crash last week, and scratches along the door from scraping into a curb. The chicken, hopefully, would keep him from breaking anything else.
"You can't go cheap," Hitch said. "The cheap rubber chickens only make noise when pressure lets go. That's no good. As soon as I back up into something, I want this chicken to be screaming like itâs in the depths of hell."
âSure thing,â I said in a monotone, leaning against the side of the truck.
There were scrambled electronic parts piled in the back of the truck, the innards of a radio, a broken computer, tangled wires, a couple loose pairs of earbuds. He found the parts in alleyways or bummed them off his friends for a couple bucks or stole them from the vacation homes that were left empty for most of the year. Then he sold them for a profit at the scrapyard. Hitch had bounced between minimum-wage jobs for a while after high school, spending a couple months as a bagger at the grocery store or as a seasonal worker at the farm two hours down the highway. He'd never stuck with it. At the very least, the scrapyard got him enough money to eat and occasionally spend a night in a motel when he got tired of sleeping in his car.
Hitch pressed the last piece of tape in place and grinned up at me. "I've got something for you, duck."
The nickname came from when Iâd broken my leg as a child and waddled around in a cast until it was healed. I hated it with a burning passion, and I glared at Hitch with the ease of twenty-one years of practice. He had a duck tattoo at the base of his thumb that heâd gotten in a back-alley shop as a teenager. He said that heâd gotten it to remind him of me, and the fact that I hated the nickname was just a bonus. It was shaky-lined, with an uneven face, but he loved it anyway.
The handle stuck when Hitch tried to open the door, a consequence of the rust collecting in the crevices of the car and running down the sides like blood from a cut. The car groaned when the door finally popped open, a metal against metal screech that had me flinching away. Hitch dug through the cluttered fast food containers in the passenger-side footwell, eventually coming up with a crinkly paper bag. He waved away the flies buzzing around the opening of the bag and held it out to me.
The last time Hitch had brought me food, Iâd gotten food poisoning because heâd left it out in the midday sun for two days. The donut was squished slightly, and the icing was stuck to the bag. I still ate it, grimacing at the harsh citrus flavor. Taking Hitchâs food was an instinct engraved from the days when Dad had given us a can of kidney beans for dinner and Hitch had drank the juice, leaving the beans for me.
I rarely went hungry anymore, three mostly square meals a day and granola in my pockets just in case, but habits didnât die easy.
These days, Hitch only brought me food when he wanted my help, like when he saw a place he wanted to hit but was worried about doing it alone.
I got in the car, like I always did.
We drove past the cluster of seafood-themed restaurants with chipped paint decks, the beachfront park where there were always shifty-eyed men sitting under the slide, the single room library where all the books had been water damaged in the flood last year. The change was quick as we drove across Main Street, heading closer to the beach. The roads were freshly paved, the concrete a smooth black except where the sun had already started to pick away at it. The three-story homes lining the sides of the street were crouched on elegant stilts, with space underneath for a car or three. Most of the garages were empty, with the lights off and curtains drawn in the house. Come summer, the streets would be swarming with tourists and vacationers, but until then, most of the buildings nearest to the beach were unoccupied.
Hitch stopped as the sun started to go down at a house that was leaning precariously out towards the beach, tilted ever so slightly, the edge of its foundation buried in the shifting sand of the beach. It certainly looked deserted, with an overgrown yard and blue paint peeling off the door in sheets.
Hitch took his hammer out of the backseat, hoisting it over his shoulder. It was two feet of solid metal with rags wrapped around the head to muffle the sound of the hits. Hitch squared up, bending his knees and holding the hammer like a baseball bat. Before he could swing, though, the door creaked open on its own, the hinges squeaking. The house beyond was dark enough that I could only make out general shapes, glimpsing the curve of a sofa to the left, what was maybe the shimmer of a chandelier on the other side.
Hitch lowered his hammer, looking vaguely disappointed that he didnât get to use it. âThatâsâŚweird as hell.â
âMaybe the deadbolt broke, maybe they forgot to lock it, it doesnât matter,â I hissed, checking our surroundings for other people again. âJust hurry up and get inside before someone calls the cops.â
Hitch flicked the lightswitch on the wall, and the lights flickered on. They were dim, buzzing audibly and blinking off occasionally. The walls were plastered with contrasting swatches of wallpaper and splattered with random colors. There was neon orange behind the dining table, a galaxy swirl in the kitchen, and on the ceiling there was a repeating floral pattern covered in nametag stickers. Each of the stickers was filled out with The Erlking. Chandeliers hung in every room, three or four for each, and rubber ducks sat on every table. A miniature carousel sat in the corner along with a towering model rocket.
Sand was heaped on every surface, at least a couple inches everywhere. It was piled in the corners and stuck to the walls, and it covered the floor in a thick blanket. Our hesitant steps into the house left footprints clearly outlined in the sand.
Hitch took a cursory look around and headed immediately for the TV mounted on the wall. âLook out the windows and tell me if anyone is coming.â
I shook the sand out of the blinds and pulled them open, then had to brush sand off of the window before I could see anything.
Hitch was quick, practiced at finding and appropriating the things that were worth taking. He came back to me with an armful of electronics and chandeliers, dumping it at my feet before turning to head deeper into the house again.
There was a thump, somewhere upstairs, and then footsteps, slow and deliberate. Hitch froze at the threshold of the room, then ran for the door with me just ahead of him, sand flying out from under our feet.
My hand was almost brushing the doorknob, close enough that I could see the light from the streetlamp outside streaming in through the cracks in the door. My fingers touched the wood and it gave under my touch, becoming malleable and warm. I yelped, stumbling backwards, and the door started to melt. The paint ran down in thick drops, pooling at the bottom of the door, and the wood warped like metal being welded. The soft edges of the door ran into the walls until there was no sign of an exit ever being there.
âWell, well, well,â said a cultured voice with just an edge of snooty elitism. âWhat do we have here?â
The man was well over eight feet tall, with long black hair covering his eyes. He was wearing a yellow raincoat with holes cut out of the hood to accommodate the deer antlers jutting upwards from his head. There was sand settled on his shoulders and hovering around his head like a halo.
âWho the fuck are you?â Hitch said, inching towards a window.
He smiled, just a little bit, and his teeth shone in the dim light. âI am the Erlking.â
Hitch nodded, and seemed about to respond. I grabbed him by the hand and pulled him towards the window. I could feel sand in the wind roaring against my back as the Erlking growled in anger, the grains scraping harshly against my cheeks.
We were almost to the window when Hitch was ripped away from me, and I came to a startled halt. The sand had formed long grasping arms that pressed Hitch against the floral wallpaper. His wrists were held tight, and as I watched, a sandy hand wrapped around his mouth and forced its way between his teeth. He gagged, and sand trickled out of the corners of his mouth.
The Erlking strolled towards him, not seeming to be in any sort of rush. âYou know, Iâm not very fond of your yapping.â
He made an idle gesture and the sand wrapped around my ankles, tethering me in place.
âI yap all the time,â Hitch said. âThree-time olympic yapper, thatâs me. Best to just let me go now and save yourself some trouble.â
The Erlking tapped a manicured nail against Hitchâs mouth, hard enough to hurt, judging by the way he flinched away. âBut why would I ever let you go when Iâve gone to this much trouble to catch you and your sister? Itâs so hard, these days, to find people that no one will miss.â
Hitch struggled against the sand, trying to escape and failing. âWhat do you want with us, then? You just said it, weâre nobody.â
âIâm fae, dear one,â the Erlking said. âI get my power from my followers. And I think that you two will make lovely additions to my flock.â
He flicked Hitch's nose and Hitch gasped. Feathers started to form on his arms, popping out from under his skin in a spray of blood.
Hitch pushed off the wall, using his bound hands as a fulcrum, and his knees crashed into the Erlkingâs stomach. The Erlking fell backwards, wheezing, and the sand around my ankles loosened.
Hitch made desperate eye contact with me as feathers shot up his neck and jerked his head towards the window. The message was obvious. Run.
The last thing I saw before crashing out the window and into freedom was Hitchâs body twisting, his arms wrenching into wings and feathers covering every inch of his skin. By the time I landed on the concrete outside, he was a small black bird, held tightly in the Erlkingâs hands. The whole building was sinking into the ground, burnished-gold sand piling up over top and streaming from the windows.
Thirty years later, I saw Samâs Supernatural Consultation and Neutralization written in neat, looping handwriting on a piece of paper taped to the door. The tape was peeling at the corners and the paper was yellowed with age, but there was obviously care put into the sign, in its perfectly centered text and looping floral designs drawn over the edges in gold marker.
I knocked, hesitantly, drawing my woolen coat closer around my shoulders. Iâd bought it as a fiftieth birthday gift for myself, and I took comfort in the heavy weight of it over my shoulders.
âComing!â someone called from within the depths of the office.
There were a couple crashes, and the sound of paper shuffling. Eventually, the door was opened by a young woman with ketchup stains on her shirt and pencils stuck through her hair.
âHi, Iâm Sam, I specialize in supernatural consultation and hunting, how may I help you today?â Sam said, customer-service pep in her voice. She stood in the doorway, solidly blocking entry into the office.
âMy name is Ezra, Iâm for a consultation. I emailed you but you didnât respond?â I shifted in place, suddenly feeling awkward.
âOh! Yeah, I lost the password for the email ages ago. Sorry for the bad welcome, I get lots of people thinking Iâm crazy or pulling a prank and harassing me.â
She ushered me into the office, clearing papers off one of the chairs to make room for me to sit down. There was a collection of swords along one wall, all of them polished to perfection, several with deep knicks in the metal which indicated that theyâd been used heavily.
âSo what can I help you with?â Sam asked again, more sincere this time.
âThirty years ago, my brother was turned into a bird,â I started. Iâd told this story so many times that it barely felt ridiculous to say anymore. I was used to the disbelieving looks, the careful pity. But Sam just nodded along, face open and welcoming.
âIâve almost given up on finding him, at this point,â I said. âBut I saw your ad in the newspaper, andâŚhere I am, I suppose.â
âHere you are,â Sam echoed, smiling. She pulled one of the pencils out of her hair and took a bit of paperwork off of one of her stacks, turning it over so that the blank side sat neatly in front of her. âTell me everything.â
I told Sam everything, and she wrote it all down, pencil scratching along the paper.
The last part of the story was always the hardest to tell. âI left him there. I ran and I didnât look back.â
I had been to dozens of detectives and investigators over the years, once the police had dropped Hitchâs case. Iâd been to professional offices with smartly-dressed secretaries and met scraggly men in coffee shops. All of them had given me the same look, pity and annoyance all mixed up into a humor-the-crazy-lady soup. Sam, though, just seemed thoughtful.
Sam leaned forward and put a hand over mine, carefully, like she thought that I would pull away. âSometimes you have to leave people behind.â
I tightened her hold on Samâs hand and drew it towards me, like I could make Sam listen if only I squeezed tight enough. âBut thatâs why Iâm here. I donât want to leave him behind.â
âOkay then. Iâll do my best to help you.â Sam agreed, finally. Then she paused, and said softly, âYou knowâŚI think I met your brother once. He might have saved my life. Heâs certainly why I started in this business.â
âReally? What happened?â I asked.
This is the story that Sam told me, related to the best of my abilities:
It was a new moon, so the only illumination came from the stars gazing idly down and distant porch lights shining across the scraggly brush of the dunes. Samâs neighbors were decent people who cared about baby turtles, so the lights were a low, unobtrusive red, and the ocean sloshed like blood. Sam walked on the beach almost every night, drawing back the gauzy pink curtains and clambering out her bedroom window. She didnât often bother to be quiet; her mama worked the late shift and came home exhausted. As long as Sam got home before the sun, her mama would never find out that she paced the shoreline and dreamed of inhaling sand until her lungs became their own beach.
The sky was lightening. The sun would come up soon, and that meant Samâs time on the beach was over. She needed to get back to her real life, go to her fifth grade class and stop that nonsense, as her mother would say. Her mother loved to say things like that, pushing Sam into her proper place by implication alone.
âSheâs a good kid, of course, but sheâs a bitâŚâ Her mother would trail off there, usually getting a commiserating expression from whoever she was talking to. Sam always wondered how that sentence would have finished. Sheâs a bit strange, maybe. Sheâs a bit intense. Sheâs a bit abrasive. Sheâs quiet enough but when Jason tried to steal her pencil in math class, she stabbed him in the hand so hard that the lead tattooed him.
Her mother was better, for the most part. The days of her stocking up the fridge, and leaving a post-it note on the counter, and leaving for days at a time were gone. But Sam still stepped around the place on the kitchen tile where her mother had collapsed and caved her head in, even though the bloodstains had been replaced with new tile.
âYour auntie got an abortion, you know,â her mother had said from her place on the couch, slurring her words. âPill in the mail and then bam, no more baby.â
She had clapped her hands together to illustrate her point. Her mother jerked forward and grabbed Sam by the wrist, then, staring up at her until Sam met her eyes.
âI love you, you know? But sometimes I wonderâŚâ She settled back onto the couch. âYeah. I wonder.â
Sheâd gotten up, then, back to the kitchen. Sheâd been stumbling, a shambling zombie of a woman. The ground in the entryway of the kitchen was raised, ever so slightly, and her mother went down hard. Her head cracked against the tile, chin first, and she didnât move.
Sam had been the one to call the ambulance. She had stared at the scattering of loose teeth on the ground while she waited, and considered what her life would be like with a dead mom. Not so bad, she thought, and immediately felt guilty for it.
Her mom was better, now, for the most part. But Sam still stepped around the place on the kitchen floor where she had collapsed. There was still a matchbox hidden under her bed with the gleaming shine of her motherâs lost teeth, two canines and a molar. It was nice, having a piece of her mom to keep. Even if she left again, Sam would still have part of her.
Sam sighed, and turned away from the ocean. As she faced towards the low dunes further up the beach, she saw a sandcastle sitting nestled among them. It was such a strange sight that her eyes skipped over it at first, almost automatically, disregarding it because it was so out of place.
Sam found sandcastles out on the beach sometimes, usually half-collapsed and on the verge of being washed away by the waves, but she had never seen anything like the sandcastle in front of her. It was life-sized, something that wouldnât have looked out of place in the Scottish highlands, with spires shooting up above her head and carefully etched out bricks lining each side. The front wall was dominated by an arched set of double doors, twice her height, with a portcullis nestled at the top, ready to be dropped. All of it was lovingly detailed, down to the rust on the tips of the towers and the wood grain of the door. It was made out of wet, densely-packed sand, held together impossibly. It had not been there two hours ago, when she had come to the beach.
There was a bird sitting on the overhang of the door, small and black.
As soon as she took a step towards the sandcastle, the bird shook out its feathers and swooped down towards Sam, landing at her feet with a little stumble.
âHey, kid, get out of here,â said the bird.
Sam closed her eyes, very deliberately. When she opened them, the bird was still there. Sam considered herself a very reasonable person, so she immediately drew the most logical conclusion. The bird was, she was almost certain, a demon.
âTrust me, you donât want to run into Mr. Salty, the queen bitch himself,â the bird said.
âMr. Salty?â Sam inquired, polite as she knew how to be. She edged to the side, trying to get a good angle to kick the bird like a soccer ball.
The bird did something similar to a wince, all its feathers fluffing up then settling back down. âAh, donât call him that. Heâd turn you into a toad.â
The bird gestured with its head, towards the looming sand structure. âThatâs his castle. Heâs in there, probably scuttling along the ceiling or some shit because thatâs the sort of weirdo he is.â
Sam nodded, encouraging. She pulled back her foot and lined up her shot, the way sheâd seen athletes do on TV. She aimed right for its sharp beak and let loose. The bird saw it coming, its beady eyes widening, and it cawed in distress. It flapped away, avoiding her kick only to fall backward into the sand in a scramble of wings.
âWhatâs your fucking problem?â it squawked. âI was trying to help you!â
âI donât need the help of a demon,â Sam yelled, trying to remember the exorcism that her mama had taught her once, because her mama believed in being prepared for anything.
âIâm not a demon,â the bird said indignantly.
It was at about that moment that Sam gave up and just decided to roll with it.
âWhat are you, then?â Sam asked.
The bird shuffled its clawed feet, looking about as awkward as it could, given that it didnât really have recognizable facial expressions. âTechnically Iâm a familiar of the Erlking, prince of the fae, but I prefer to be called Hitch.â
âYou canât blame me for assuming, though,â Sam said. âRavens do tend to be associated with murder.â
âHey, excuse you,â Hitch said. âIâm a rook, not a raven. Ravens are way bigger.â
âSure,â Sam said, not really paying attention. Her eyes had caught on the details of the sandcastle, and she was transfixed by the slow spirals of the sand, the strange beauty of it. She found herself stepping towards the great doors, lifting a hand to knock, and as she did, the sand warped in front of her eyes, heaving itself towards her with bulging slowness. The door creaked open before her, revealing a vast, empty room. Just before she stepped inside, she felt a piercing pain in her foot, and she yelped, leaping backwards.
Hitch pecked her again, really digging his beak in. âDonât be an idiot.â
Sam glared at him, rubbing her foot. About to retort, she finally really took in the room inside the sandcastle, and her words died in her throat.
There was a body just past the threshold of the door, face down and limbs hanging limp at its sides. Long hair splayed out in a halo around its head.
âDonât,â Hitch warned, suddenly serious. âJust leave, kid, I mean it. Iâve seen too many people go down this road and you donât want to be one of them.â
Sam ignored him. She made her way across the beach, slipping with every step. The sand felt deeper, piling up around her feet in silent drifts. She picked up the nearest stick and poked the body with it through the door, ready to leap back if anything went wrong, staying firmly outside of the sandcastle.
This close, Sam could tell that it used to be a woman. Her head wasnât attached to her body. It hadnât been a clean amputation, either. Her upper body was bruised, with chunks taken out of it, and the bones in her neck hung mangled, not connected to anything.
âWell, I warned you,â Hitch said, defeated. âI did warn you.â
Sam nudged the head with the end of the stick, nudging it over so that she could see the face. Her mother stared back at her, torn to pieces, breath still wheezing from her lungs. She wasnât blinking, just gazing forward with glazed eyes. Sweat dripped down from her hairline.
Sam screamed and dropped the stick, tripping over herself in her haste to get away.
Her motherâs eyes were wide and pleading, and she was mouthing desperate words at Sam. Her vocal cords were broken to bits, and the only sound that came out was a strained groan.
The head rolled, inching closer to Sam like a grotesque caterpillar.
Her mother gasped for air, torn lips fluttering. Finally, comprehensible words came out. âHelp. Help me, daughter.â
âThatâs not your mother,â Hitch said, quiet.
Sam knew that. Her mother was sleeping back at home, and anyways her mom had never asked for her help. She had an aversion to accepting charity, as she put it.
âOkay,â Sam said, shaking all over. âOkay.â
She backed away from the sandcastle, not looking away.
âFailure,â her mother hissed as she stepped away. âI never wanted a daughter like you.â
The sun came up over the horizon. The sandcastle, Hitch, and her mom all disintegrated into sand as the light hit them.
The beach, the next night, was almost exactly how I remembered it. The beams of our flashlights sent light bouncing across the dunes, illuminating the waves, and I imagined faces in the foam of the waves.
âIâve been back here a hundred times. Thereâs nothing left,â I said.
Sam took the car key out of her purse and pointed it at the sand, adjusting the sword slung over her shoulder in order to do it. The key had belonged to Hitch; Sam had requested an item of his, and it was the only thing I had left. She rested the key on the sand and drew a circle around it, inscribing symbols around the borders.
âWhat are you doing?â I asked.
Sam shrugged. âNot much, really. IâmâŚI guess you could say that Iâm knocking.â
The key laid inert on the sand for long enough that I was just about to give up and go home, admit to myself that Hitch was dead and that I was a fool to believe that Sam could actually help me. Then a building started to take shape, flickering in and out like it was struggling to get away. With a pop of displaced air, the sandcastle settled into existence.
Sam banged on the entryway. Nothing happened. She did it again, harder, and scowled when the door still didnât open.
âWe demand entrance, under your honor,â Sam yelled. There was a hard rush of wind, and I gripped Samâs arm to keep my balance, but the doors cracked open reluctantly.
The inside of the sandcastle consisted of one enormous hall, the roof arching up out of sight. Rafters crisscrossed from wall to wall, and a cobbled path led further into the building, but other than that, it was completely empty, except for the birds. There were thousands of them, perched on the rafters or hopping along the ground. They parted in front of Sam and I, and reformed behind us, leaving us in a small pocket of open space. They were all black-feathered, with sharp beaks and beady eyes.
The Erlking sat on a throne at the end of the hall, lounging across it with his feet up on the armrest. He watched them as they came forward, the soft caw of the birds the only sound.
âI am here to bargain for the life of my brother,â I said, with as much dignity as I could muster, before the Erlking could say anything.
The Erlking ignored her, tilting his head to look at Sam. âI remember you. I almost got you, once.â
Sam glared at him but didnât respond.
âYou want your brother,â The Erlking said to me, and he almost sounded amused. âThen go get him.â
As if by some sort of silent signal, every bird in the room took flight at once, and their cawing made me think of screams. I covered my head against the flapping of their wings, and my vision was quickly obscured by the chaotic movement of them. I found myself on my knees, just trying to escape them.
A hand met my shoulder. Sam urged me to my feet, and together we ran for the edge of the room, where the swarm was the thinnest. We pressed ourselves into the corner and the swarm spiraled tighter and tighter at the center of the room. It went on until there seemed to be no differentiation between the birds, all of them fused together into one creature.
When the chaos died down, the birds had become one mass, with wings and eyes and talons sticking out of its flesh, thrashing and chirping. Human body parts stuck out of it, bulging out from the feathers. It was hands, mostly, with a couple knees or staring eyes. The bird amalgamation had no recognizable facial features, but there was one long beak extending from the front of its head. Most of the body parts were concentrated around the beak, and they peeked out from where the beak connected with muscle, or grew from the tongue, nestled between the two crushing halves of the beak.
It turned its beak down and crawled forward, using the hands to balance. The fingers scrambled over the ground. I was afraid of centipedes as a child, and I felt that same crawling dread when it started moving.
âHoly shit,â Sam whispered, which was rather disappointing, because I had been hoping that at least one of us knew what to do.
The creature turned, a lurching movement that crushed some of the hands underneath it, and started heaving itself slowly towards our corner.
âBetter hurry up!â the Erlking called from his throne.
It was blocking the exit, by then. The shifting body of it had moved to block us off. It ambled towards us and I tried to sink further into the corner.
As it approached, getting close enough that I could smell the stink of it, I saw a flash of a tattoo on one of the hands. I leaned in, trying to find it again, like looking for dolphins surfacing in the ocean. And again, I caught a glimpse of a duck tattoo, the tattoo that Hitch had gotten on his hand as a teenager.
I ripped away from Samâs death grip and ran for the monster.
I fell to my knees in front of it, wincing as I impacted the ground, and reached into the nest of hands. I could feel them tearing at my forearms and ripping into me with their sharp nails, but I kept going. I pressed further in, up to my shoulder in a writhing mass of limbs, aiming for the spot where I had last seen that tattoo.
The hands were tugging at me, wrapping around my back and hair. They were pulling together, trying to draw me completely into the mass of them. I was aware of Sam at my side, anchoring me in place and bashing any hand that got too close with her sword or the sparks that leapt from her hands with muttered words. But I didnât think it would be enough. They were too strong, and there were too many of them.
I was up to my waist in the hands when something grabbed my palm. I felt the way it clung to me, and the calluses on its palm, and I knew that I had found my brother.
I flung herself back. The hands didnât want to let me go, and they fought the whole way, but slowly, I made progress. I kept hold of Hitchâs hand in mine the whole time, gripping it as hard as I could. I finally broke free, Hitch with me, and Sam was immediately charging the creature, able to use her sword with much greater strength without being worried about injuring Hitch. She swung it forward, and it sliced through the wrist of one of the hands. It fell without a sound, red sand flowing out of it. It deflated until it looked like dirty laundry, just a piece of limp flesh. The creature shrieked, scuttling away enough that the door was finally accessible. The three of us ran for it, Sam and I supporting Hitch between us.
I looked back as I left and found the Erlking staring right at me.
âInteresting,â he murmured, his voice carrying impossibly across the vast space between us.
The sandcastle collapsed behind us, the great walls falling in on themselves. We were out in the morning sun, the sandcastle disappearing as we watched. Hitch was on the ground in front of me, as young as heâd been thirty years ago, when he was captured. He started laughing, feathers puffing out of his mouth. He laughed until he cried and I hugged him in the way that heâd held me when I was young, in the times when my life had been defined by hunger and fear.
Hitch left, afterwards. He scratched at the pinhole scars covering his body, where feathers burst through his skin, and pulled his long sleeves down around his wrists. He didnât know where he was going but he told me that he needed time
I had spent thirty years worth of time without him. I wanted to grab my brother by the shoulders and beg him to stay. But he flinched when I hugged him goodbye and he refused to go near sand and he stared distrustfully at the birds chirping in the trees. Hitch needed to go away and I loved him too much to stop him.
I sat out on the beach every morning. I felt the sun on my face and I waited for Hitch to come home.
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The sleeves of his weather-beaten coat were shoved all the way up his arms, to stop the fabric from falling over his knuckles while he was working, and goosebumps lined his skin. He was strapping a rubber chicken to the back of his truck, over the lens of the shattered backup camera, with the legs pointing down so that they hung a couple inches above the ground. There were dents in the hood from the crash last week, and scratches along the door from scraping into a curb. The chicken, hopefully, would keep him from breaking anything else.
"You can't go cheap," Hitch said. "The cheap rubber chickens only make noise when pressure lets go. That's no good. As soon as I back up into something, I want this chicken to be screaming like itâs in the depths of hell."
âSure thing,â I said in a monotone, leaning against the side of the truck.
There were scrambled electronic parts piled in the back of the truck, the innards of a radio, a broken computer, tangled wires, a couple loose pairs of earbuds. He found the parts in alleyways or bummed them off his friends for a couple bucks or stole them from the vacation homes that were left empty for most of the year. Then he sold them for a profit at the scrapyard. Hitch had bounced between minimum-wage jobs for a while after high school, spending a couple months as a bagger at the grocery store or as a seasonal worker at the farm two hours down the highway. He'd never stuck with it. At the very least, the scrapyard got him enough money to eat and occasionally spend a night in a motel when he got tired of sleeping in his car.
Hitch pressed the last piece of tape in place and grinned up at me. "I've got something for you, duck."
The nickname came from when Iâd broken my leg as a child and waddled around in a cast until it was healed. I hated it with a burning passion, and I glared at Hitch with the ease of twenty-one years of practice. He had a duck tattoo at the base of his thumb that heâd gotten in a back-alley shop as a teenager. He said that heâd gotten it to remind him of me, and the fact that I hated the nickname was just a bonus. It was shaky-lined, with an uneven face, but he loved it anyway.
The handle stuck when Hitch tried to open the door, a consequence of the rust collecting in the crevices of the car and running down the sides like blood from a cut. The car groaned when the door finally popped open, a metal against metal screech that had me flinching away. Hitch dug through the cluttered fast food containers in the passenger-side footwell, eventually coming up with a crinkly paper bag. He waved away the flies buzzing around the opening of the bag and held it out to me.
The last time Hitch had brought me food, Iâd gotten food poisoning because heâd left it out in the midday sun for two days. The donut was squished slightly, and the icing was stuck to the bag. I still ate it, grimacing at the harsh citrus flavor. Taking Hitchâs food was an instinct engraved from the days when Dad had given us a can of kidney beans for dinner and Hitch had drank the juice, leaving the beans for me.
I rarely went hungry anymore, three mostly square meals a day and granola in my pockets just in case, but habits didnât die easy.
These days, Hitch only brought me food when he wanted my help, like when he saw a place he wanted to hit but was worried about doing it alone.
I got in the car, like I always did.
We drove past the cluster of seafood-themed restaurants with chipped paint decks, the beachfront park where there were always shifty-eyed men sitting under the slide, the single room library where all the books had been water damaged in the flood last year. The change was quick as we drove across Main Street, heading closer to the beach. The roads were freshly paved, the concrete a smooth black except where the sun had already started to pick away at it. The three-story homes lining the sides of the street were crouched on elegant stilts, with space underneath for a car or three. Most of the garages were empty, with the lights off and curtains drawn in the house. Come summer, the streets would be swarming with tourists and vacationers, but until then, most of the buildings nearest to the beach were unoccupied.
Hitch stopped as the sun started to go down at a house that was leaning precariously out towards the beach, tilted ever so slightly, the edge of its foundation buried in the shifting sand of the beach. It certainly looked deserted, with an overgrown yard and blue paint peeling off the door in sheets.
Hitch took his hammer out of the backseat, hoisting it over his shoulder. It was two feet of solid metal with rags wrapped around the head to muffle the sound of the hits. Hitch squared up, bending his knees and holding the hammer like a baseball bat. Before he could swing, though, the door creaked open on its own, the hinges squeaking. The house beyond was dark enough that I could only make out general shapes, glimpsing the curve of a sofa to the left, what was maybe the shimmer of a chandelier on the other side.
Hitch lowered his hammer, looking vaguely disappointed that he didnât get to use it. âThatâsâŚweird as hell.â
âMaybe the deadbolt broke, maybe they forgot to lock it, it doesnât matter,â I hissed, checking our surroundings for other people again. âJust hurry up and get inside before someone calls the cops.â
Hitch flicked the lightswitch on the wall, and the lights flickered on. They were dim, buzzing audibly and blinking off occasionally. The walls were plastered with contrasting swatches of wallpaper and splattered with random colors. There was neon orange behind the dining table, a galaxy swirl in the kitchen, and on the ceiling there was a repeating floral pattern covered in nametag stickers. Each of the stickers was filled out with The Erlking. Chandeliers hung in every room, three or four for each, and rubber ducks sat on every table. A miniature carousel sat in the corner along with a towering model rocket.
Sand was heaped on every surface, at least a couple inches everywhere. It was piled in the corners and stuck to the walls, and it covered the floor in a thick blanket. Our hesitant steps into the house left footprints clearly outlined in the sand.
Hitch took a cursory look around and headed immediately for the TV mounted on the wall. âLook out the windows and tell me if anyone is coming.â
I shook the sand out of the blinds and pulled them open, then had to brush sand off of the window before I could see anything.
Hitch was quick, practiced at finding and appropriating the things that were worth taking. He came back to me with an armful of electronics and chandeliers, dumping it at my feet before turning to head deeper into the house again.
There was a thump, somewhere upstairs, and then footsteps, slow and deliberate. Hitch froze at the threshold of the room, then ran for the door with me just ahead of him, sand flying out from under our feet.
My hand was almost brushing the doorknob, close enough that I could see the light from the streetlamp outside streaming in through the cracks in the door. My fingers touched the wood and it gave under my touch, becoming malleable and warm. I yelped, stumbling backwards, and the door started to melt. The paint ran down in thick drops, pooling at the bottom of the door, and the wood warped like metal being welded. The soft edges of the door ran into the walls until there was no sign of an exit ever being there.
âWell, well, well,â said a cultured voice with just an edge of snooty elitism. âWhat do we have here?â
The man was well over eight feet tall, with long black hair covering his eyes. He was wearing a yellow raincoat with holes cut out of the hood to accommodate the deer antlers jutting upwards from his head. There was sand settled on his shoulders and hovering around his head like a halo.
âWho the fuck are you?â Hitch said, inching towards a window.
He smiled, just a little bit, and his teeth shone in the dim light. âI am the Erlking.â
Hitch nodded, and seemed about to respond. I grabbed him by the hand and pulled him towards the window. I could feel sand in the wind roaring against my back as the Erlking growled in anger, the grains scraping harshly against my cheeks.
We were almost to the window when Hitch was ripped away from me, and I came to a startled halt. The sand had formed long grasping arms that pressed Hitch against the floral wallpaper. His wrists were held tight, and as I watched, a sandy hand wrapped around his mouth and forced its way between his teeth. He gagged, and sand trickled out of the corners of his mouth.
The Erlking strolled towards him, not seeming to be in any sort of rush. âYou know, Iâm not very fond of your yapping.â
He made an idle gesture and the sand wrapped around my ankles, tethering me in place.
âI yap all the time,â Hitch said. âThree-time olympic yapper, thatâs me. Best to just let me go now and save yourself some trouble.â
The Erlking tapped a manicured nail against Hitchâs mouth, hard enough to hurt, judging by the way he flinched away. âBut why would I ever let you go when Iâve gone to this much trouble to catch you and your sister? Itâs so hard, these days, to find people that no one will miss.â
Hitch struggled against the sand, trying to escape and failing. âWhat do you want with us, then? You just said it, weâre nobody.â
âIâm fae, dear one,â the Erlking said. âI get my power from my followers. And I think that you two will make lovely additions to my flock.â
He flicked Hitch's nose and Hitch gasped. Feathers started to form on his arms, popping out from under his skin in a spray of blood.
Hitch pushed off the wall, using his bound hands as a fulcrum, and his knees crashed into the Erlkingâs stomach. The Erlking fell backwards, wheezing, and the sand around my ankles loosened.
Hitch made desperate eye contact with me as feathers shot up his neck and jerked his head towards the window. The message was obvious. Run.
The last thing I saw before crashing out the window and into freedom was Hitchâs body twisting, his arms wrenching into wings and feathers covering every inch of his skin. By the time I landed on the concrete outside, he was a small black bird, held tightly in the Erlkingâs hands. The whole building was sinking into the ground, burnished-gold sand piling up over top and streaming from the windows.
Thirty years later, I saw Samâs Supernatural Consultation and Neutralization written in neat, looping handwriting on a piece of paper taped to the door. The tape was peeling at the corners and the paper was yellowed with age, but there was obviously care put into the sign, in its perfectly centered text and looping floral designs drawn over the edges in gold marker.
I knocked, hesitantly, drawing my woolen coat closer around my shoulders. Iâd bought it as a fiftieth birthday gift for myself, and I took comfort in the heavy weight of it over my shoulders.
âComing!â someone called from within the depths of the office.
There were a couple crashes, and the sound of paper shuffling. Eventually, the door was opened by a young woman with ketchup stains on her shirt and pencils stuck through her hair.
âHi, Iâm Sam, I specialize in supernatural consultation and hunting, how may I help you today?â Sam said, customer-service pep in her voice. She stood in the doorway, solidly blocking entry into the office.
âMy name is Ezra, Iâm for a consultation. I emailed you but you didnât respond?â I shifted in place, suddenly feeling awkward.
âOh! Yeah, I lost the password for the email ages ago. Sorry for the bad welcome, I get lots of people thinking Iâm crazy or pulling a prank and harassing me.â
She ushered me into the office, clearing papers off one of the chairs to make room for me to sit down. There was a collection of swords along one wall, all of them polished to perfection, several with deep knicks in the metal which indicated that theyâd been used heavily.
âSo what can I help you with?â Sam asked again, more sincere this time.
âThirty years ago, my brother was turned into a bird,â I started. Iâd told this story so many times that it barely felt ridiculous to say anymore. I was used to the disbelieving looks, the careful pity. But Sam just nodded along, face open and welcoming.
âIâve almost given up on finding him, at this point,â I said. âBut I saw your ad in the newspaper, andâŚhere I am, I suppose.â
âHere you are,â Sam echoed, smiling. She pulled one of the pencils out of her hair and took a bit of paperwork off of one of her stacks, turning it over so that the blank side sat neatly in front of her. âTell me everything.â
I told Sam everything, and she wrote it all down, pencil scratching along the paper.
The last part of the story was always the hardest to tell. âI left him there. I ran and I didnât look back.â
I had been to dozens of detectives and investigators over the years, once the police had dropped Hitchâs case. Iâd been to professional offices with smartly-dressed secretaries and met scraggly men in coffee shops. All of them had given me the same look, pity and annoyance all mixed up into a humor-the-crazy-lady soup. Sam, though, just seemed thoughtful.
Sam leaned forward and put a hand over mine, carefully, like she thought that I would pull away. âSometimes you have to leave people behind.â
I tightened her hold on Samâs hand and drew it towards me, like I could make Sam listen if only I squeezed tight enough. âBut thatâs why Iâm here. I donât want to leave him behind.â
âOkay then. Iâll do my best to help you.â Sam agreed, finally. Then she paused, and said softly, âYou knowâŚI think I met your brother once. He might have saved my life. Heâs certainly why I started in this business.â
âReally? What happened?â I asked.
This is the story that Sam told me, related to the best of my abilities:
It was a new moon, so the only illumination came from the stars gazing idly down and distant porch lights shining across the scraggly brush of the dunes. Samâs neighbors were decent people who cared about baby turtles, so the lights were a low, unobtrusive red, and the ocean sloshed like blood. Sam walked on the beach almost every night, drawing back the gauzy pink curtains and clambering out her bedroom window. She didnât often bother to be quiet; her mama worked the late shift and came home exhausted. As long as Sam got home before the sun, her mama would never find out that she paced the shoreline and dreamed of inhaling sand until her lungs became their own beach.
The sky was lightening. The sun would come up soon, and that meant Samâs time on the beach was over. She needed to get back to her real life, go to her fifth grade class and stop that nonsense, as her mother would say. Her mother loved to say things like that, pushing Sam into her proper place by implication alone.
âSheâs a good kid, of course, but sheâs a bitâŚâ Her mother would trail off there, usually getting a commiserating expression from whoever she was talking to. Sam always wondered how that sentence would have finished. Sheâs a bit strange, maybe. Sheâs a bit intense. Sheâs a bit abrasive. Sheâs quiet enough but when Jason tried to steal her pencil in math class, she stabbed him in the hand so hard that the lead tattooed him.
Her mother was better, for the most part. The days of her stocking up the fridge, and leaving a post-it note on the counter, and leaving for days at a time were gone. But Sam still stepped around the place on the kitchen tile where her mother had collapsed and caved her head in, even though the bloodstains had been replaced with new tile.
âYour auntie got an abortion, you know,â her mother had said from her place on the couch, slurring her words. âPill in the mail and then bam, no more baby.â
She had clapped her hands together to illustrate her point. Her mother jerked forward and grabbed Sam by the wrist, then, staring up at her until Sam met her eyes.
âI love you, you know? But sometimes I wonderâŚâ She settled back onto the couch. âYeah. I wonder.â
Sheâd gotten up, then, back to the kitchen. Sheâd been stumbling, a shambling zombie of a woman. The ground in the entryway of the kitchen was raised, ever so slightly, and her mother went down hard. Her head cracked against the tile, chin first, and she didnât move.
Sam had been the one to call the ambulance. She had stared at the scattering of loose teeth on the ground while she waited, and considered what her life would be like with a dead mom. Not so bad, she thought, and immediately felt guilty for it.
Her mom was better, now, for the most part. But Sam still stepped around the place on the kitchen floor where she had collapsed. There was still a matchbox hidden under her bed with the gleaming shine of her motherâs lost teeth, two canines and a molar. It was nice, having a piece of her mom to keep. Even if she left again, Sam would still have part of her.
Sam sighed, and turned away from the ocean. As she faced towards the low dunes further up the beach, she saw a sandcastle sitting nestled among them. It was such a strange sight that her eyes skipped over it at first, almost automatically, disregarding it because it was so out of place.
Sam found sandcastles out on the beach sometimes, usually half-collapsed and on the verge of being washed away by the waves, but she had never seen anything like the sandcastle in front of her. It was life-sized, something that wouldnât have looked out of place in the Scottish highlands, with spires shooting up above her head and carefully etched out bricks lining each side. The front wall was dominated by an arched set of double doors, twice her height, with a portcullis nestled at the top, ready to be dropped. All of it was lovingly detailed, down to the rust on the tips of the towers and the wood grain of the door. It was made out of wet, densely-packed sand, held together impossibly. It had not been there two hours ago, when she had come to the beach.
There was a bird sitting on the overhang of the door, small and black.
As soon as she took a step towards the sandcastle, the bird shook out its feathers and swooped down towards Sam, landing at her feet with a little stumble.
âHey, kid, get out of here,â said the bird.
Sam closed her eyes, very deliberately. When she opened them, the bird was still there. Sam considered herself a very reasonable person, so she immediately drew the most logical conclusion. The bird was, she was almost certain, a demon.
âTrust me, you donât want to run into Mr. Salty, the queen bitch himself,â the bird said.
âMr. Salty?â Sam inquired, polite as she knew how to be. She edged to the side, trying to get a good angle to kick the bird like a soccer ball.
The bird did something similar to a wince, all its feathers fluffing up then settling back down. âAh, donât call him that. Heâd turn you into a toad.â
The bird gestured with its head, towards the looming sand structure. âThatâs his castle. Heâs in there, probably scuttling along the ceiling or some shit because thatâs the sort of weirdo he is.â
Sam nodded, encouraging. She pulled back her foot and lined up her shot, the way sheâd seen athletes do on TV. She aimed right for its sharp beak and let loose. The bird saw it coming, its beady eyes widening, and it cawed in distress. It flapped away, avoiding her kick only to fall backward into the sand in a scramble of wings.
âWhatâs your fucking problem?â it squawked. âI was trying to help you!â
âI donât need the help of a demon,â Sam yelled, trying to remember the exorcism that her mama had taught her once, because her mama believed in being prepared for anything.
âIâm not a demon,â the bird said indignantly.
It was at about that moment that Sam gave up and just decided to roll with it.
âWhat are you, then?â Sam asked.
The bird shuffled its clawed feet, looking about as awkward as it could, given that it didnât really have recognizable facial expressions. âTechnically Iâm a familiar of the Erlking, prince of the fae, but I prefer to be called Hitch.â
âYou canât blame me for assuming, though,â Sam said. âRavens do tend to be associated with murder.â
âHey, excuse you,â Hitch said. âIâm a rook, not a raven. Ravens are way bigger.â
âSure,â Sam said, not really paying attention. Her eyes had caught on the details of the sandcastle, and she was transfixed by the slow spirals of the sand, the strange beauty of it. She found herself stepping towards the great doors, lifting a hand to knock, and as she did, the sand warped in front of her eyes, heaving itself towards her with bulging slowness. The door creaked open before her, revealing a vast, empty room. Just before she stepped inside, she felt a piercing pain in her foot, and she yelped, leaping backwards.
Hitch pecked her again, really digging his beak in. âDonât be an idiot.â
Sam glared at him, rubbing her foot. About to retort, she finally really took in the room inside the sandcastle, and her words died in her throat.
There was a body just past the threshold of the door, face down and limbs hanging limp at its sides. Long hair splayed out in a halo around its head.
âDonât,â Hitch warned, suddenly serious. âJust leave, kid, I mean it. Iâve seen too many people go down this road and you donât want to be one of them.â
Sam ignored him. She made her way across the beach, slipping with every step. The sand felt deeper, piling up around her feet in silent drifts. She picked up the nearest stick and poked the body with it through the door, ready to leap back if anything went wrong, staying firmly outside of the sandcastle.
This close, Sam could tell that it used to be a woman. Her head wasnât attached to her body. It hadnât been a clean amputation, either. Her upper body was bruised, with chunks taken out of it, and the bones in her neck hung mangled, not connected to anything.
âWell, I warned you,â Hitch said, defeated. âI did warn you.â
Sam nudged the head with the end of the stick, nudging it over so that she could see the face. Her mother stared back at her, torn to pieces, breath still wheezing from her lungs. She wasnât blinking, just gazing forward with glazed eyes. Sweat dripped down from her hairline.
Sam screamed and dropped the stick, tripping over herself in her haste to get away.
Her motherâs eyes were wide and pleading, and she was mouthing desperate words at Sam. Her vocal cords were broken to bits, and the only sound that came out was a strained groan.
The head rolled, inching closer to Sam like a grotesque caterpillar.
Her mother gasped for air, torn lips fluttering. Finally, comprehensible words came out. âHelp. Help me, daughter.â
âThatâs not your mother,â Hitch said, quiet.
Sam knew that. Her mother was sleeping back at home, and anyways her mom had never asked for her help. She had an aversion to accepting charity, as she put it.
âOkay,â Sam said, shaking all over. âOkay.â
She backed away from the sandcastle, not looking away.
âFailure,â her mother hissed as she stepped away. âI never wanted a daughter like you.â
The sun came up over the horizon. The sandcastle, Hitch, and her mom all disintegrated into sand as the light hit them.
The beach, the next night, was almost exactly how I remembered it. The beams of our flashlights sent light bouncing across the dunes, illuminating the waves, and I imagined faces in the foam of the waves.
âIâve been back here a hundred times. Thereâs nothing left,â I said.
Sam took the car key out of her purse and pointed it at the sand, adjusting the sword slung over her shoulder in order to do it. The key had belonged to Hitch; Sam had requested an item of his, and it was the only thing I had left. She rested the key on the sand and drew a circle around it, inscribing symbols around the borders.
âWhat are you doing?â I asked.
Sam shrugged. âNot much, really. IâmâŚI guess you could say that Iâm knocking.â
The key laid inert on the sand for long enough that I was just about to give up and go home, admit to myself that Hitch was dead and that I was a fool to believe that Sam could actually help me. Then a building started to take shape, flickering in and out like it was struggling to get away. With a pop of displaced air, the sandcastle settled into existence.
Sam banged on the entryway. Nothing happened. She did it again, harder, and scowled when the door still didnât open.
âWe demand entrance, under your honor,â Sam yelled. There was a hard rush of wind, and I gripped Samâs arm to keep my balance, but the doors cracked open reluctantly.
The inside of the sandcastle consisted of one enormous hall, the roof arching up out of sight. Rafters crisscrossed from wall to wall, and a cobbled path led further into the building, but other than that, it was completely empty, except for the birds. There were thousands of them, perched on the rafters or hopping along the ground. They parted in front of Sam and I, and reformed behind us, leaving us in a small pocket of open space. They were all black-feathered, with sharp beaks and beady eyes.
The Erlking sat on a throne at the end of the hall, lounging across it with his feet up on the armrest. He watched them as they came forward, the soft caw of the birds the only sound.
âI am here to bargain for the life of my brother,â I said, with as much dignity as I could muster, before the Erlking could say anything.
The Erlking ignored her, tilting his head to look at Sam. âI remember you. I almost got you, once.â
Sam glared at him but didnât respond.
âYou want your brother,â The Erlking said to me, and he almost sounded amused. âThen go get him.â
As if by some sort of silent signal, every bird in the room took flight at once, and their cawing made me think of screams. I covered my head against the flapping of their wings, and my vision was quickly obscured by the chaotic movement of them. I found myself on my knees, just trying to escape them.
A hand met my shoulder. Sam urged me to my feet, and together we ran for the edge of the room, where the swarm was the thinnest. We pressed ourselves into the corner and the swarm spiraled tighter and tighter at the center of the room. It went on until there seemed to be no differentiation between the birds, all of them fused together into one creature.
When the chaos died down, the birds had become one mass, with wings and eyes and talons sticking out of its flesh, thrashing and chirping. Human body parts stuck out of it, bulging out from the feathers. It was hands, mostly, with a couple knees or staring eyes. The bird amalgamation had no recognizable facial features, but there was one long beak extending from the front of its head. Most of the body parts were concentrated around the beak, and they peeked out from where the beak connected with muscle, or grew from the tongue, nestled between the two crushing halves of the beak.
It turned its beak down and crawled forward, using the hands to balance. The fingers scrambled over the ground. I was afraid of centipedes as a child, and I felt that same crawling dread when it started moving.
âHoly shit,â Sam whispered, which was rather disappointing, because I had been hoping that at least one of us knew what to do.
The creature turned, a lurching movement that crushed some of the hands underneath it, and started heaving itself slowly towards our corner.
âBetter hurry up!â the Erlking called from his throne.
It was blocking the exit, by then. The shifting body of it had moved to block us off. It ambled towards us and I tried to sink further into the corner.
As it approached, getting close enough that I could smell the stink of it, I saw a flash of a tattoo on one of the hands. I leaned in, trying to find it again, like looking for dolphins surfacing in the ocean. And again, I caught a glimpse of a duck tattoo, the tattoo that Hitch had gotten on his hand as a teenager.
I ripped away from Samâs death grip and ran for the monster.
I fell to my knees in front of it, wincing as I impacted the ground, and reached into the nest of hands. I could feel them tearing at my forearms and ripping into me with their sharp nails, but I kept going. I pressed further in, up to my shoulder in a writhing mass of limbs, aiming for the spot where I had last seen that tattoo.
The hands were tugging at me, wrapping around my back and hair. They were pulling together, trying to draw me completely into the mass of them. I was aware of Sam at my side, anchoring me in place and bashing any hand that got too close with her sword or the sparks that leapt from her hands with muttered words. But I didnât think it would be enough. They were too strong, and there were too many of them.
I was up to my waist in the hands when something grabbed my palm. I felt the way it clung to me, and the calluses on its palm, and I knew that I had found my brother.
I flung herself back. The hands didnât want to let me go, and they fought the whole way, but slowly, I made progress. I kept hold of Hitchâs hand in mine the whole time, gripping it as hard as I could. I finally broke free, Hitch with me, and Sam was immediately charging the creature, able to use her sword with much greater strength without being worried about injuring Hitch. She swung it forward, and it sliced through the wrist of one of the hands. It fell without a sound, red sand flowing out of it. It deflated until it looked like dirty laundry, just a piece of limp flesh. The creature shrieked, scuttling away enough that the door was finally accessible. The three of us ran for it, Sam and I supporting Hitch between us.
I looked back as I left and found the Erlking staring right at me.
âInteresting,â he murmured, his voice carrying impossibly across the vast space between us.
The sandcastle collapsed behind us, the great walls falling in on themselves. We were out in the morning sun, the sandcastle disappearing as we watched. Hitch was on the ground in front of me, as young as heâd been thirty years ago, when he was captured. He started laughing, feathers puffing out of his mouth. He laughed until he cried and I hugged him in the way that heâd held me when I was young, in the times when my life had been defined by hunger and fear.
Hitch left, afterwards. He scratched at the pinhole scars covering his body, where feathers burst through his skin, and pulled his long sleeves down around his wrists. He didnât know where he was going but he told me that he needed time
I had spent thirty years worth of time without him. I wanted to grab my brother by the shoulders and beg him to stay. But he flinched when I hugged him goodbye and he refused to go near sand and he stared distrustfully at the birds chirping in the trees. Hitch needed to go away and I loved him too much to stop him.
I sat out on the beach every morning. I felt the sun on my face and I waited for Hitch to come home.
2024.05.19 08:05 Cool-Imagination-978 Hernia as a child
Hi not sure if this is the best place to ask but any help would be greatly appreciated. As a child I had a hernia operation when I was 5(male). I'm not sure why I had it and now as a 32 year old everybody in my family has given me a different story. Hurt myself in a soccer game, wrestling at day care or that I was born with it and they had to wait until I was bigger for surgery.
Is it common to have operations at that age? What causes them as I don't believe I was doing any heavy lifting at that age.
submitted by Cool-Imagination-978 to Hernia [link] [comments]
Is it common to have operations at that age? What causes them as I don't believe I was doing any heavy lifting at that age.
2024.05.19 07:58 ConsequenceSure3063 Best Car Duster
 | submitted by ConsequenceSure3063 to u/ConsequenceSure3063 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/zv74mi7zob1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=686d0ce11438839717e06186744f1fc2fc3218bb If you've ever struggled to keep your prized automobile clean and spotless, then you'll want to pay attention. In this article, we'll be diving into the world of car dusters, exploring the top options available on the market that could make your car-cleaning routine a breeze. From essential features to user-friendly designs, we'll help you find the perfect car duster for your needs. So, buckle up and get ready to witness what these innovative tools can do for your cherished vehicle. The Top 19 Best Car Duster
ReviewsđEffective Removable Microfiber Car Duster for Dust-Free Vehicleshttps://preview.redd.it/v99y3xszob1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c1d6899d5f29b3704fdf12eb24a2bc77b2a9a193 The Speedway Car Duster is a true lifesaver for car enthusiasts. This duster is not only easy to use but also incredibly effective at eliminating dust from your vehicle. The microfiber material is soft and gentle on your car's finish, while the removable and washable feature ensures that your duster stays clean and dust-free. One of the standout features of the Speedway Car Duster is the metal tube handle. It provides a sturdy grip, making it easy to maneuver around your car, even in tight spaces. The purple color also adds a touch of elegance and style, making this duster a great addition to your car care routine. Using the Speedway Car Duster is a breeze - simply run it over your car's surface, and watch as the dust magically disappears. 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Overall, it's a solid choice for car owners seeking a reliable, eco-friendly cleaning solution. đUltimate Car Duster Kit: Effortless Sparkle and Cleanlinesshttps://preview.redd.it/u01lkrj0pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fe653e64d697a10e12300af42f10a227500bbb42 I recently got my hands on the upra Ultimate Car Duster Kit, and I must say, this is the best car duster set I've ever used. Not only does it have a sturdy build that won't fall apart or unravel over time, but it also features a special design and tight joint that prevents snagging things on or in my car. One of the things that stood out to me the most was the set's large car duster with a minimum length of 22.8 inches and a maximum length of 32.6 inches. Along with the circular one measuring 11.8 inches in diameter and 4.33 inches in length, and a mini car air vent duster with a dimension of 6.3 inches, this kit has got me covered for all my car cleaning needs. The fine material applied, high-class microfiber, makes sure I leave no lint or wax behind â something I appreciate when I want my car to look as good as new both indoors and outdoors. With its powerful dust or dirt removing performance, this car duster has saved me a significant amount of time and money and works for all vehicle types, from trucks to SUVs and even motorcycles. Now, I must say, it does require some maintenance, but it's worth the investment considering how efficient and easy to operate it is. Upra really knows how to create a top-notch product, and their Ultimate Car Duster Kit is the perfect proof of that. đOriginal California Mini Car Duster for Dust Removalhttps://preview.redd.it/h92ft5v0pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a4cb8a80f171815e9632d4879cc054c13c33338 The California Mini Duster has been a game-changer in my daily life. I've been using it for dusting both at home and in my car, and let me tell you, it's made a huge difference in the cleanliness of my interiors. One of the standout features of this product is the baked-in wax treatment. It's not just a cleaner, but also a protector for my vehicle's interior. I've noticed that after using the Mini Duster, the surfaces seem to have a nice shine, which is thanks to that special wax treatment. However, one downside I've found is that while it's great for dusting, it does tend to leave a bit of lint behind. Not a lot, but enough to notice. I've had to shake it out a few times, and I've even ended up using a small brush to get rid of the excess lint. The Mini Duster's compact size is another plus, making it perfect for on-the-go use. It fits in the palm of my hand and doesn't take up much space in my car, which is super handy. Using the Mini Duster has made me appreciate just how much dust I didn't realize was lying around. Now, I find myself using it all the time, and I can definitely say that it's been a great addition to my cleaning arsenal. đPremium Wood Handle Car Duster for Interior Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/e6dmph81pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=47dd9067635e084e04997530f3b041235bc39683 The Original California Car Duster Platinum Mini Dash Duster has been a game-changer in my life. The special paraffin wax-treated cotton strands make it super easy to lift dust off without leaving any marks behind. The attractive wood handle is not only visually appealing but also sturdy and comfortable to hold. While I enjoy using it for auto purposes, its versatility has proven to be beneficial in my home as well. However, I must mention a minor inconvenience - there was no vinyl storage bag included as mentioned. Nonetheless, it's a fantastic product worth considering for anyone seeking an effortless solution to dust removal. đSoft Microfiber Car Duster for Scratch-Free Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/3xqxzzr1pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d2a15505c07230320c267200cbc587260dd0e52 As someone who's always on the lookout for a car duster that leaves no trace, I gave the bzczh Soft Microfiber Car Duster a try. I've been using it for a few weeks now, and I must say, it's been a game-changer. This duster is incredibly soft, making it perfect for gently removing dust from the exterior of your car without causing any damage. I'm impressed by how well it picks up even the tiniest particles, leaving my car's surface spotless. The extendable handle is really convenient, allowing me to reach those hard-to-reach spots without straining my back. And the best part? No pesky lint, pollen, or swirl marks to worry about. However, one downside I noticed is that the duster seems to lose some of its softness after a few washes. But it's not a deal-breaker, as the results are still noticeably better than what I've experienced with other dusters. In conclusion, the bzczh Soft Microfiber Car Duster definitely lives up to its name, providing a gentle yet effective solution for keeping your car's exterior dust-free. Despite the minor downside, its pros outweigh the cons, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a car duster that truly delivers. đProfessional Quality Car Duster for Spotless Interior Detailinghttps://preview.redd.it/xrvpc5w2pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c56e0bfc6dac8e4401ce53b05286d316aa6781ad I recently discovered the TAKAVU Interior Car Detail Duster and couldn't be happier with the result. As a car enthusiast, I've been searching for a dusting solution that not only leaves my vehicle looking incredible but also doesn't require constant maintenance. This car duster truly exceeded my expectations. Its electrostatic microfiber chenille is a game-changer, as it captures and locks away dust and debris without leaving traces of lint or residue behind. I appreciated how effortlessly it tackles various surfaces, from my car's interior to other items around the house. However, I did encounter a minor issue with the design. The duster occasionally needed some repositioning to ensure complete coverage, but it was a small price to pay for the overall results. Despite this minor inconvenience, I still highly recommend the TAKAVU Interior Car Detail Duster. Its ability to leave my car's interior spotless has saved me countless trips to the car wash, and it has become a staple in my detailing toolkit. Plus, it's an excellent gift for car lovers in your life! đCar Duster with Solid Wood Handle and Soft Dusting Fibershttps://preview.redd.it/47g98o13pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=91cc1649d89d43b5fdd3ffa27b1073a3ed4d7b9b I recently received the Classic Car Duster with a solid wood handle for my daily car maintenance. The long and narrow design of the duster allows me to easily access those tight and hard-to-reach areas, making it a fantastic tool for those who are particular about their car's appearance. One of the most significant features that stood out to me was the 3-inch long threads, which attract and lift dust from the vehicle's surface. I've noticed a marked improvement in the overall cleanliness and shine of my car thanks to this duster. However, it is essential to note that due to the 100% cotton construction, there may be some lint and wax residue during the initial use. But once this product breaks in, it becomes even softer and continues to perform exceptionally well for years to come. Frequent shaking before, during, and after use helps to prevent this issue. Lastly, I appreciate the durable storage cover included in the package, which ensures the duster remains in pristine condition when not in use. Overall, I highly recommend this Classic Car Duster for anyone looking to achieve that showroom finish every time. đExtendable Car Duster Set with Anti-Rust Stainless Steel Brushhttps://preview.redd.it/b58dzyl3pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9dd56b8fe8c26ca158b5c55eade2cf973ab96e3d Riding around in a dusty car is never fun, but with the Ride Kings Car Duster Set, it's become easier to keep your vehicle clean. This clever car duster set comes with an extendable handle, perfect for reaching areas like the roof, windshield, and hood of large vehicles. The ergonomic handle is soft and comfortable to grip, even during long cleaning sessions. One of the standout features of this car duster set is its dual-brush head. The large brush head covers a larger area and quickly removes dust, while the smaller brush is perfect for tackling those hard-to-reach spots. The set also comes with a stainless steel brush rod that's light yet strong, with a non-slip, soft foam handle for even more convenience. What's especially cool about this car duster set is its portability. The brush set can be carried in the trunk of your car for easy use during road trips. With its removable brush head, you can easily fold it and store it for optimal travel convenience. Not only is this car duster set functional, but it's also eco-friendly. Its paraffin-treated cotton thread can effectively remove dust and pollen without using water, making it ideal for those living in desert or coastal areas. One minor drawback is that the Ride Kings Car Duster Set is not suitable for wet use. But overall, with its retractable handle, flexible brush head, and gentle touch, this set is the perfect addition to any car care routine. đUniversal Car Duster with Extension and Rotation Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/egfr6fw3pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2fcae20c7622a79fa25057293f5f5285612ce2af A few weeks ago, I decided to try out the Triple Threat Extending and Rotating Truck and RV Duster from California Car Duster. As someone who's always on the go, I needed a versatile duster that could handle my busy lifestyle. I was curious to see if it could live up to the hype and clean my dusty SUV with ease. Right out of the box, I was impressed with the duster's aluminum handle. The extension feature made it simple to adjust the length, reaching high areas like the roof of my vehicle. The larger duster head was perfect for getting into tight spaces and hard-to-reach corners in my SUV and garage. However, I did notice a small issue with the rotating feature - it didn't spin as freely as I would have liked. And at times, the brush seemed to move dust around instead of lifting it efficiently. Still, I could see the wax-treated 100% cotton mop working its magic on lighter dust. The best part was the convenient storage bag that came with it. I could easily slip it in the back of my SUV when I needed to use it, and keeping the duster in a safe place ensured it would always be clean and ready to use when I needed it. Overall, the Triple Threat Extending and Rotating Truck and RV Duster from California Car Duster was a helpful addition to my car care routine. It made cleaning my SUV quicker and more efficient, and the extension feature and storage bag were thoughtful touches. While there were some minor drawbacks, I would still recommend this duster to anyone looking for an easy and effective way to keep their SUV or RV clean. đPremium Extra Large Car Duster with Marine Varnished Wood Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/7vfzu8n4pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a2ffc32844154f554b416cabe1cc4f99b7d84981 The OCM Premium Extra Large Car Duster has been a game-changer in my daily life. Its robust design, combined with its lightweight nature, makes it effortless to use. The marine varnished solid wood handle adds a touch of sophistication, while the duster's head is crafted from superb 100% cotton threads. These cotton threads are infused with a unique wax formula, which makes them gentle and perfect for cleaning delicate surfaces. However, it's essential to note that the duster may initially leave some lint and wax residue as you use it for the first few times. This is completely normal, and the residue will gradually diminish as the duster breaks in and gets softer. The duster boasts an extra-large head which significantly reduces cleaning time and ensures that your car or truck always has a shiny, showroom finish. Its durability is unmatched, and its storage cover, made of heavy gauge vinyl, ensures the duster head is protected while not in use. Overall, this OCM Premium Extra Large Car Duster is a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants a top-quality car detailing product that saves time and money. The duster's excellent performance, combined with its ease of use, makes it a no-brainer for professional detailers and enthusiasts alike. đEffortless Dash Duster for Clean Vehicle Interiorshttps://preview.redd.it/uh9kx1s4pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=366a3dadb0578453dd6a6e2be6d98ed6256b17c6 I've been using the California Duster for months now, and it's been a game-changer for keeping my car's interior clean and free of dust. The paraffin wax-treated cotton mop is perfect for its intended purpose, providing an effortless and gentle dust-lifting experience without damaging my car's surfaces. One of the most notable features of the California Duster is its clever design, with a rounded shape that makes reaching even the trickiest corners and tight spaces a breeze. Not only does this help keep my dashboard looking pristine, but it also works wonders on various household surfaces, from mini blinds and shutters to appliances. However, there is one downside to the California Duster: its relatively short length. I've found myself needing to contort my arm in some positions to reach certain areas, which can be a bit uncomfortable after a while. Overall, I'd definitely recommend the California Duster for anyone looking to keep their car or home interior in tip-top shape without causing any damage. It might be a bit short for some users, but it's a small price to pay for an effective and eco-friendly product. đUnique Ostrich Feather Duster for Car Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/rialep95pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fa7f3ce79a7489b4c69b7fa9dcb982c1b20cfbdf For the past couple of weeks, I've been using the Aldwin Ostrich Feather Duster as part of my daily house cleaning routine. Let me tell you, it's like having a little army of soft, fluffy soldiers fighting against dust and grime. Each feather feels like a million tiny cleaning superheroes, gently gliding through the air, tackling every smudge and speck in their path. One of the things I love about this duster is its eco-friendliness. The feathers are sourced from farmed ostrich, ensuring no harm is done to the environment or endangered species. And the fact that the feathers are washed, deodorized, deinsectized, and fumigated before use? That's just an extra bonus. The wooden handle is a great addition, providing a sturdy connection between the feathers and the handle. It's just one of those things that makes this duster feel solid and reliable in your hand. And speaking of handling, the ostrich feathers are static-free, which means they don't leave any annoying little particles on your clothes or furniture. The best part is that this duster is reusable and washable. You can simply wash it in warm water and let it dry, and it's as good as new. It's like having a little cleaning companion that you can take anywhere, from your home to your car. However, I will say that the duster does require a bit of care when it comes to storing it. Since the feathers are delicate, it's important to hang it or place it in a vase where it won't be crushed or bent. But all in all, it's a fantastic product that's made a significant difference in my cleaning routine. đOriginal California Car Duster for Interior Cleaninghttps://preview.redd.it/7tr6mno5pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e2b091037f1574d00a4e98943649b88792f51e3e I've been using the Original California Car Duster Black Mini Duster in my car for a few weeks now, and I must say, it's a game-changer. What stands out the most is its ability to lift dust from even the toughest to reach spots, both inside and out. The baked-on wax-treated cotton strands are soft yet effective, making the cleaning process effortless. One downside I've noticed is that it can be a bit bulky for smaller vehicles, but its compact size is perfect for most cars. I also appreciate that it's lightweight and easy to use. The mini duster comes with a convenient storage bag, making it a great addition to any vehicle owner's cleaning toolkit. All in all, the Original California Car Duster Black Mini Duster has made a positive impact on my daily life. It's easy to use, effective, and best of all, it's durable and doesn't require any maintenance or replacements. Highly recommended for anyone looking to keep their car clean and dust-free. Buyer's GuideWhen it comes to maintaining the cleanliness of your car's interior, a car duster is an essential tool. It helps remove dust, dirt, and debris from your car's surfaces without causing any scratches. However, with so many different car dusters on the market, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. Here are some important features, considerations, and advice to help you make the best choice.Materialhttps://preview.redd.it/45261a48pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5bb60155d2d64389b39dcb6343228374d08ab0e0 The material of the car duster is crucial. It should be made of soft, non-abrasive, and durable material that won't damage your car's interior. Common materials include microfiber, cotton, and polyester. Microfiber is a popular choice because it's soft, gentle, and effective at picking up dirt and dust. However, it may be more expensive than other materials. Cotton and polyester are also good options, but they might not be as effective at picking up fine dust as microfiber. Size and ShapeThe size and shape of the car duster can impact its effectiveness and ease of use. Look for a duster with a head that's large enough to cover a significant area but not so large that it's difficult to maneuver. The shape should be designed to cover a wide range of surfaces, such as dashboard, console, and seats. Some car dusters come with different attachments for specific tasks, like cleaning vents or tight spaces.Handle LengthThe length of the handle can make a big difference in your comfort and reach. Consider the height of your car's interior and ensure the handle is long enough to reach all areas easily. If you have a low-slung car or need to clean high areas, look for a car duster with an adjustable handle. https://preview.redd.it/gir1a7p8pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=450b10e3b0ab25d5f7295d8d2bfe0eb150bf25fc MaintenanceA car duster should be easy to clean and maintain. Look for a duster with a removable and washable head to make cleaning simpler. Some car dusters also come with a storage bag or pouch to keep them organized when not in use.PricePrice is always an important factor when considering a product. Car dusters can range in price from budget options to high-end models. Consider how much you're willing to spend and what features are most important to you when deciding on a car duster. Remember that a higher price doesn't always guarantee better quality.Reader Reviews and Ratingshttps://preview.redd.it/4fxm55l9pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c50b823120cc07622f381f7e6eb282f1d0bf0791 Reading reviews and ratings from other buyers can help you make a more informed decision. Look for car dusters with high ratings and positive reviews. Pay attention to feedback on ease of use, durability, and effectiveness. When it comes to choosing the right car duster, it's essential to consider factors like material, size, shape, and maintenance. By doing your research and finding the best car duster for your needs, you'll be able to keep your car's interior clean and beautiful. FAQWhat is a Car Duster?A Car Duster is a tool commonly used by car enthusiasts and professionals to quickly and easily remove dust, dirt, and debris from cars. It is designed to avoid the scratches and swirls that can be caused by regular wiping or cleaning methods. https://preview.redd.it/3oqpq5t9pb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abefd10fcbf64ae101739735bd1ee0fc4103d462 How does a Car Duster work?A Car Duster typically consists of a soft, microfiber cloth that is loosely attached to a handle. When the user lightly runs the duster across the car's surface, the static electricity built up in the microfiber cloth attracts and picks up dust and dirt particles. This method helps to prevent scratching, as the cloth does not have to physically rub against the car's surface.What types of Car Dusters are available?There are several types of Car Dusters available in the market, such as: * Flat Car Dusters
Can a Car Duster be used on all car surfaces?Yes, a Car Duster can be used on most surfaces of a car, including exterior paint, windows, mirrors, and even the interior. However, it is crucial to avoid using it on delicate areas such as rubber trim or plastic parts that can get damaged by static. Always read the product instructions and test it on a small, inconspicuous area before use on any specific part of the car.How often should I use a Car Duster?The frequency of using a Car Duster depends on your personal preference and the level of dust and debris your car accumulates. However, it is generally recommended to clean your car regularly to prevent dirt buildup, protect the paint, and maintain its overall appearance. A weekly or bi-weekly maintenance routine can ensure your car stays clean and well-maintained.How do I clean and maintain my Car Duster?To clean your Car Duster, you can simply wipe it thoroughly with a damp cloth, or use a mild detergent and water solution if it's severely dirty. After cleaning, allow the duster to air dry completely to prevent any mold or mildew growth. To maintain the effectiveness of the duster, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prolong its lifespan.As an Amazon⢠Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |