Quick sand pyros
Elegant & Gothic Lolita Fashion
2011.04.08 03:00 Elegant & Gothic Lolita Fashion
**Welcome to the Elegant & Gothic Lolita / Elegant & Gothic Aristocrat subreddit!** This is a place where we talk about wearing the Japanese street fashion. Not to be confused with the novel/movie of the same name and the associated fashion, nymphet. *This is an all-ages sub and all nsfw content will be automatically removed.*
2008.01.25 06:10 /r/Anime
Reddit's premier anime community.
2014.07.26 12:41 Juliandroid98 Sand Dunes on the Lords of Minecraft
2024.05.19 17:51 jr897 Generic tips for those struggling for classic and endless
I see a lot of comments on people who struggle with classic and to a lesser extent endless. Just wanted to provide a few tips for those who haven't done much competitive pokemon. There are a lot of basic tips that I see out there, but here are some I haven't seen as much so I figured I'd share.
For classic: For rival: Use early rival fights to work on predictions. For example, when running fuecoco the rival would swap to bombadier. This happened in early rival fights and happened also on level 195. You can take these swaps to predict when your opponent will want to stay in and to what they will swap to. This ties into my next tip....
Don't forget about status moves, especially for rival fights. Status moves include buffs like bulk up, minimize, and curses like baby-doll eyes and sand attack. Because of lum berry, if you are able to do things like fire off eerie impulses/charms/sand attacks and then spam t-wave or sleep then find a mon you can swap into without the opponent changing, then you can easily get +6spatk/+6spdf or +6atk/+6def with calm mind/bulk up on a sweeper and just click through everything the opponent has.
Likewise for eternatus. It doesn't have lum berry. Before the fight, move all of your lum berries to a shit pokemon that you'll use last. Eternatus resets all of its stat changes and full-restore's its status condition when you trigger its stage 2. This doesn't change your pokemon's stats. Nerf it to the ground with like an electrode with eerie impulse and t-wave and then set up on its face with a clam mind psychic pokemon. After you get your second pokemon in, you can also have it status the eternatus and it will never recover from that status as long as you don't give it a lum berry. Moves like roost/recover go a long way to helping.
If you're having trouble with a rival, pick up a rhyperior. They are pretty common. They do really well into both eternatus and rayquaza. Also, note your rivals starter pokemon. If its fire, get a water type, etc. And then get a buff move that you can use because the rival will always swap t1. Just remember to change to the right starter mon on the round prior to the rival fight (ex. round 144 or 94.)
If you struggle with early rounds, it sounds obvious but try throwing pokeballs. You can catch problematic pokemon with a great/ultra ball when the opposing pokemon is at 100% hp up through most of the pre-50 levels if you're lucky, and a little chip/status goes a long way. It also helps to not get too attached to certain pokemon because replacing the underleveled ones with new ones as you grind up is a great way to not have trash if your main goes down.
Meowth + gholdengo generate money with payday/make it rain and technician meowth goes a long way through the early game but falls off. Replace it at some point. Remember to cycle fakeouts by saccing trash mons if you need to. Also baby-doll eyes on zigzagoon has +1 priority if you are vs a tough physical attacker early and sand attack can go a long way vs tough mons.
Don't forget that if you have already opened an egg version of one of the mons you find in the end, you can catch multiple copies of that mon.
For endless: it's harder to get exp - cycle your trash mons out for new ones regularly with pokeballs, keeping only your main and maybe a secondary that you can try to keep up with rare candies and such.
remember passives. Squirtle has a sturdy passive and with mega blastoise for later, can be fused to get a broken ability/even better stats and be a solid late game carry. My biggest struggle has been with priority moves that hit and status before I move. This was fixed because I remembered about the following abilities: Dazzling/queenly majesty/armor tail These are broken passives and can be found on nidoqueen, crygonal, misdreavous, jinx, farigaraf, and most importantly fluttermane. If you haven't hit a fluttermane, no problem, use one of the others, but what's best is that the passive comes from the first mon and the ability comes from the second. Even though all of the above mon's abilities are subpar and even protosynthesis sucks, you can replace the trash ability with fusing with your legendary of choice. My current setup is fluttermane + calyrex shadow rider for ghost/fairy coverage + leech seed but you can replace calyrex for anything decent. If you can unlock endless, then you can beat classic and get a shit ton of eggs so I believe in y'all to find something solid.
If you want to do shedinja BS, go for dark/ghost fusion rather than normal/ghost. Each are both weak to 1 type (fairy and dark respectively) but there are no real fairy type priority moves vs sucker punch is everywhere. Some solid fusion choices are weavile and kingambit. Another great choice is mega houndoom. While you get a very mid spatk stat (shedinja's is only 30 but houndoom's is a whopping 140 for an averaged 85), you super pump your mon anyways and special has WAY more spread moves than physical with heat wave, snarl, and then your choice of coverage moves.
Speaking of spread moves, if you ever stop being able to one shot everything or start struggling but have a solid mon with a good spread move, then start refreshing shops for lures. This will only really take place in the 1000s so you should have millions/billions+ money and rerolling shouldn't be an issue for max/super lures. You get double shiny odds and the rounds are easier. You can use a backup mon to your main with rockslide (or thief)/kings rock/multihit/quick claw to still steal items and flinch mons that endure your first hit. In one of my runs, my calyrex shadow rider wasn't always one-shotting dark type pokemon. When you have enough lures going, the bosses have less health and this no longer became a problem.
Lastly, keep an eye out for mons that are decently fast and can use Thief (to a lesser extent, covet) and look for lucky eggs/type boosting items like fairy featheblack glasses/etc. Use thief! Steal everything early. Lucky eggs and especially golden eggs go a LONG way to keeping your mons up in levels and having them be relevant while you super boost one mon with rare candies.
Hopefully at least one of these things helped.
submitted by jr897 to pokerogue [link] [comments]
For classic: For rival: Use early rival fights to work on predictions. For example, when running fuecoco the rival would swap to bombadier. This happened in early rival fights and happened also on level 195. You can take these swaps to predict when your opponent will want to stay in and to what they will swap to. This ties into my next tip....
Don't forget about status moves, especially for rival fights. Status moves include buffs like bulk up, minimize, and curses like baby-doll eyes and sand attack. Because of lum berry, if you are able to do things like fire off eerie impulses/charms/sand attacks and then spam t-wave or sleep then find a mon you can swap into without the opponent changing, then you can easily get +6spatk/+6spdf or +6atk/+6def with calm mind/bulk up on a sweeper and just click through everything the opponent has.
Likewise for eternatus. It doesn't have lum berry. Before the fight, move all of your lum berries to a shit pokemon that you'll use last. Eternatus resets all of its stat changes and full-restore's its status condition when you trigger its stage 2. This doesn't change your pokemon's stats. Nerf it to the ground with like an electrode with eerie impulse and t-wave and then set up on its face with a clam mind psychic pokemon. After you get your second pokemon in, you can also have it status the eternatus and it will never recover from that status as long as you don't give it a lum berry. Moves like roost/recover go a long way to helping.
If you're having trouble with a rival, pick up a rhyperior. They are pretty common. They do really well into both eternatus and rayquaza. Also, note your rivals starter pokemon. If its fire, get a water type, etc. And then get a buff move that you can use because the rival will always swap t1. Just remember to change to the right starter mon on the round prior to the rival fight (ex. round 144 or 94.)
If you struggle with early rounds, it sounds obvious but try throwing pokeballs. You can catch problematic pokemon with a great/ultra ball when the opposing pokemon is at 100% hp up through most of the pre-50 levels if you're lucky, and a little chip/status goes a long way. It also helps to not get too attached to certain pokemon because replacing the underleveled ones with new ones as you grind up is a great way to not have trash if your main goes down.
Meowth + gholdengo generate money with payday/make it rain and technician meowth goes a long way through the early game but falls off. Replace it at some point. Remember to cycle fakeouts by saccing trash mons if you need to. Also baby-doll eyes on zigzagoon has +1 priority if you are vs a tough physical attacker early and sand attack can go a long way vs tough mons.
Don't forget that if you have already opened an egg version of one of the mons you find in the end, you can catch multiple copies of that mon.
For endless: it's harder to get exp - cycle your trash mons out for new ones regularly with pokeballs, keeping only your main and maybe a secondary that you can try to keep up with rare candies and such.
remember passives. Squirtle has a sturdy passive and with mega blastoise for later, can be fused to get a broken ability/even better stats and be a solid late game carry. My biggest struggle has been with priority moves that hit and status before I move. This was fixed because I remembered about the following abilities: Dazzling/queenly majesty/armor tail These are broken passives and can be found on nidoqueen, crygonal, misdreavous, jinx, farigaraf, and most importantly fluttermane. If you haven't hit a fluttermane, no problem, use one of the others, but what's best is that the passive comes from the first mon and the ability comes from the second. Even though all of the above mon's abilities are subpar and even protosynthesis sucks, you can replace the trash ability with fusing with your legendary of choice. My current setup is fluttermane + calyrex shadow rider for ghost/fairy coverage + leech seed but you can replace calyrex for anything decent. If you can unlock endless, then you can beat classic and get a shit ton of eggs so I believe in y'all to find something solid.
If you want to do shedinja BS, go for dark/ghost fusion rather than normal/ghost. Each are both weak to 1 type (fairy and dark respectively) but there are no real fairy type priority moves vs sucker punch is everywhere. Some solid fusion choices are weavile and kingambit. Another great choice is mega houndoom. While you get a very mid spatk stat (shedinja's is only 30 but houndoom's is a whopping 140 for an averaged 85), you super pump your mon anyways and special has WAY more spread moves than physical with heat wave, snarl, and then your choice of coverage moves.
Speaking of spread moves, if you ever stop being able to one shot everything or start struggling but have a solid mon with a good spread move, then start refreshing shops for lures. This will only really take place in the 1000s so you should have millions/billions+ money and rerolling shouldn't be an issue for max/super lures. You get double shiny odds and the rounds are easier. You can use a backup mon to your main with rockslide (or thief)/kings rock/multihit/quick claw to still steal items and flinch mons that endure your first hit. In one of my runs, my calyrex shadow rider wasn't always one-shotting dark type pokemon. When you have enough lures going, the bosses have less health and this no longer became a problem.
Lastly, keep an eye out for mons that are decently fast and can use Thief (to a lesser extent, covet) and look for lucky eggs/type boosting items like fairy featheblack glasses/etc. Use thief! Steal everything early. Lucky eggs and especially golden eggs go a LONG way to keeping your mons up in levels and having them be relevant while you super boost one mon with rare candies.
Hopefully at least one of these things helped.
2024.05.19 16:51 Obvious_Ad4159 Twice Awoken (Pilot chapter)
It has been 20 years since the first calamity struck Earth. A massive wave of solar radiation from a nearby star known as Prometheus 673B showered our solar system in 2025. Electronics have been rendered useless for months, giving humanity the glimpse of what life was like long before. But that was merely temporary. The true effect of the solar flare came in the form of an illness, that afflicted roughly 10% of the current population. Unlike anything we've ever seen, the illness did not kill, rather enhanced the afflicted. For the first time in human history, the term Esper was used seriously. Dubbed the Awoken, those afflicted with illness that stemmed from the solar flare of Prometheus, gained the ability to manifest their own thoughts into reality, with varying degrees of success. At first, nations and laws, society as whole, was not prepared to deal with these new humans and their abilities. Crime ran rampant for a while.
Five years after the incident, the world banded together in a unified front, known as the AMA, The Awoken Management Agency, a world wide agency tasked with handling and controlling the Awoken, allowing humanity to once more function as a whole. Satellites have been sent out as far Earth's gaze into space could reach, to watch our for any other potential cosmic events that may occur, like the one that happened with Prometheus back in '25.
Now, 20 years since the first incident, the satellites have picked up another major cosmic event on the horizon, this time coming from the Aquila constellation. Is humanity ready to withstand whatever cosmos has prepared for it?
[]
"Kenji. Wake up! You'll be later for your lectures, again."
The young man groaned, slowly turning to his side in bed, looking at his mother that stood at the doorway. "I'm up, I'm up."
Yawning and stretching, he sat up in bed, running his fingers through his hair, before turning to check the small clock on his nightstand.
"Wha? Late? Mom, it's only 8. Lectures don't start until 10." He sighed.
"Oh well. No need to cut it short, right? Plus, I've made breakfast." His mother replied and went back downstairs.
[]
AMA Information Database:
Kenji Aoto. Age: 21 Category: Type 1 Awoken Ability: Embodiment. The unique ability of Kenji Aoto, unlike other Awoken of the same type, allows him to alter his own body based on how he feels. Most Type 1s change their environment around them, rather than themselves. Type 1s are classified as such for having abilities that considered non dangerous to the general non awoken population.
[]
"We've got a lot of promising talent this year huh?" Nathaniel said to his daughter, as the two looked down at the auditorium full of students. The dean of the university was preparing his usual welcoming speech, as the assistants tried to quiet down the murmurs of the students.
"Yeah, we sure do." Clara smiled, not taking her eyes off the scene. "Quite a good number of Awoken too."
"Anyone interesting in particular?" Nathaniel asked.
"No, not really. They all have the standard abilities you would expect out of a type 1. Same level of control to boot." She responded.
"Well, I look forward to being their professor." Her father smiled, inhaling deeply. "The smell of youthful energy, so amazing. I can still remember your first day as a freshman."
Clara blushed a bit, nudging him in the ribs with her elbow. "Shouldn't you be down there giving your speech, Dr. Offset?"
Nathaniel rubbed the back of his neck with a slightly embarrasses laugh to boot. "Oh don't call me that. Ahem, yeah. I'll be going now. See you later for lunch?"
"Of course dad." Clara smiled, giving her father a little wave as he left the teacher conference room.
[]
AMA Information database:
Clara Harris. Age: 32 Category: Non-Awoken (regular human) The lead ambassador for Awoken rights and unification in the AMA. Daughter of the lead researcher in Awoken development and the head teacher of the Awoken department in Nagoya University, Japan, Nathaniel Harris.
Nathaniel Harris. Age: 55 Category: Type 2 Awoken Ability: Offset. Acquired during the first Prometheus flare, the ability of Dr. Offset (he thought the name was cool when he was in his 20s), allows him to offset numerical values. Though touching an object is not required to use the ability on it, the potency of the ability greatly improved when he has direct contact with it. This also extends to, in theory, numerical values pertaining to objects and their position in space, relative to Nathaniel. Meaning he can move objects or parts of them relative to where he's standing, by changing their coordinates, however there were no recorded instances of him doing so. Examples include: Increasing or reducing the temperature of a beverage by direct contact. Increasing or decreasing friction on a surface of an object temporarily by touching it.
In his youth, Nathaniel attempted to become a sort of hero, once his powers kicked in, but due to the very low potency of his abilities, he never really managed to make the cut as one, despite being a type 2. Type 2s are classified as such due to having abilities that could be considered dangerous, powerful or harmful for the general non awoken population.
[]
Location: Russia, Siberia. Time: 22:37 Facility: Maximum security prison for Awoken criminals in Russia, cell block 5.
Theodore laid in his bunk, staring at the ceiling. Each of his breaths released a soft cloud of vapor, that commonly occurs when someone is in a cold environment. In his case, the vapor was a byproduct of his ability, rather than the cold cell we was in. A thug with a love for violence, turned bank robber when his abilities fully developed, Theodore terrorized Russia and the neighboring countries. It wasn't until the AMA was finally assembled and operational, that he was arrested and sentenced to multiple life sentences in this highest security prison that Russia had at a time.
Even after being sent behind bars, he kept up his antics, becoming a nightmare for the guards and inmates alike. No man that was placed in a cell with him would last more than a few days before demanding transfer. Some even lost their lives to the former thugs whims, before their transfer requests could be approved. Hence Theodore has been placed in solitary, a cell designed with all the tech necessary to nullify his ability. There he spent the last 10 years of his life.
Despite being a type 1, an awoken with abilities that were not classified as dangerous to the general population, Theodore managed to use them to their fullest extent. His blessing of temperature manipulation, was a curse to everyone around him.
He looked outside, at the night sky, through his small cell window. Apparently, there was a big stellar event, similar to the one 20 years ago, that gave him the powers he now has. He heard guards and other inmates talk about it, how AMA is now prepared for such an event.
Theodore closed his eyes, imagining what this aurora would look like. The memory of that night, when Prometheus 673B's flare struck earth still fresh in his mind like it was yesterday. The otherworldly mixture of reds and yellows and greens. Like a primordial fire that was lit across the night sky.
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps outside his cell snapped him out of his memory.
"Huh?" He adjusted in bed, to see who was outside his cell.
A man, in a white cloak with golden details, stood outside his cell. Theodore was confused. The man was not one of the guards, he was bare footed and did not wear any uniform. And no way he was one of the other inmates, no one had the capabilities to leave their cells without being let out.
"Hey, who the hell are you? How did you get here? The guards letting us out or something?" The criminal walked over to his cell door. The bars were made of material that could withstand sudden changes in temperature without bending or breaking, preventing him from getting out.
The man said nothing, he didn't even turn towards the convict, he merely stood there, hood covering his as he looked up at the night sky through the decorative windows on the buildings roof.
"Hey asshat! I asked you a question. How the fuck did you get out of your cell? C'mon man, don't be a dick, let me out too." Theodore grabbed the bars and rattled them.
The cloaked man finally turned towards him. The convict was stunned, only for a second. The man has a beard and long hair, both as white as his cloak. But his eyes, they were as blue as the midday sky. He could have sworn energy seemed to pour out of them. Before he could say another word, the figure before him extended his hand at him, and with a snap of his fingers, a bold of lightning struck Theodore square in the chest. The convict was send flying, back hitting the wall opposite the cell doors.
[]
Location: Brazil, San Paolo. Time: 16:37 Facility: Remodeled Taubaté Prison, cell block 3.
Vitor sat on the bench press, just finishing a set, looking over the prison yard. Even behind bars, his connections did not dwindle. A former petty drug dealer, Vitor Alves quickly rose to power and influence once his powers awoke. He employed other Awoken with criminal tendencies as his own personal task force to drive all other competition into the ground. Once he held the entirety of San Paolo's drug empire in his hand, he set his sights farther. We wanted the entire city for himself, believing that no one could challenge his claim to that right.
With the help of the AMA, the Brazilian government swiftly put his plan to rest, and Vitor behind bars. The fight between the Awoken under Alves and the AMA/Brazilian forces was indeed a bloody one and resulted in a good number of civilian casualties. The drug lord was sent to Taubate, where he would spend the rest of his life. The prison was remodeled, per AMA standards, to be fully equipped and capable of holding Awoken criminals.
Despite having powers of temperature manipulation, capable of increasing temperature to lethal amounts, Vitor did not believe that to be his strongest ability. Money, influence, connections, those were real power, what truly carried him to the top of the criminal world.
Even now, as he sat on the bench press, doing a few reps before looking over the yard, Vitor was not powerless in the outside world. He waited on his informant, his connection to the outside, to appear so he could delegate orders to what was left of his followers and empire on the outside.
He wasn't sure if it was something he ate, or the heat from the pounding sun. Maybe it was even that sky flare that he heard AMA guards mention. Something indeed felt off, his vision seemed a bit blurry. As if the entire prison courtyard was moving slowly right before him. But the informant should be there soon, so Vitor decided not to go back to his cell just yet.
The other inmates, guards, even the basketball that the inmates played hoops with, suddenly slowed down to a halt. Through the statue like crowd, a single figure moved over to Vitor. His feet were bare, his body and face hidden behind a hooded cloak. The drug lord could only see his white beard and his eyes, as they seemed to be glowing a faint blue glow. Before he even got a chance to speak, the man extended his hand towards him and with a smirk, snapped his fingers, sending a bolt of lightning straight into the mans body, causing Vitor to fly several feet and collapse on the ground.
[]
"Ugh... What the fuck man?" Theodore cursed, as he regained his consciousness. Slowly, he got up to his knees, his head pounding like he was struck by a hammer. The cell felt colder than before. Looking around, he saw the entire cell frozen, every surface covered by a thick layer of ice. Bed, toilet, the cell doors, frozen solid. And the ice shifted. With every movement of his hands, the ice followed.
"Could it be?" The inmate whispered, focusing his mind, channeling his ability. Ice began to form in the palm of his hand, morphing freely. With a single wave of his hand, the frozen bed shattered into bits and pieces. Theodore inhaled, getting up to his feet, head still in pain. But the realization was crystal clear. He could now freeze things without having to touch them, manipulate what he froze, as well create ice out by freezing the water in the air. With a grin plastered across his face, Theodore thanked the mysterious man, of who there was not a single trace left, and decided that he's busting himself out of prison.
[]
"WARNING! WARNING! WARNING. PRISON BREAKS DETECTED ACROSS MULTIPLE AMA FACILITIES!" Blared the system on screen at the Awoken Management Agency in Nagoya. Other HQs across the globe received the same warning.
"What the hell is going on?" Clara said, running into the monitoring hall.
"I don't know. Prison breaks, across multiple locations world wide." Kaito replied, his eyes not leaving the monitors as he fired up the surveillance drones on the impacted locations.
"The main facilities that were absolutely totaled are Siberia and San Paolo." He continued.
"Think it could be?" Clara asked.
"Not possible. The protection against solar flares was at full power. Not a single particle should have hit the ground. I mean, we didn't lose any tech, unlike last time." Kaito shot her question down, pulling up the drone feed of the two prisons.
Taubate was in flames. The entire facility seemed to be entirely engulfed in a raging fire. The Russian counterpart held no better either. The entire prison was torn apart by massive glacier like formations, that seemed to jut out of the ground.
Clara, Kaito and other technicians presents stared, slackjawed, at the live drone feed. Something like that was not possible, no Awoken held that level of power. Not even if multiple Awoken united, could they produce that level of destruction across such a large area.
"Wait wait! What's that? Zoom in on one of the glaciers!" One of the technicians said, pointing at the big monitors.
Kaito's fingers flew across the keyboard, as the drone moved closer and the video on screen zoomed to its maximum. On one of the glacier formations, sat a man, clearly an inmate based on the jumpsuit he was wearing.
"Running identification." Chimed the computer.
"Inmate 4012: Theodore Ivarovski. Age: 36. Category: Type 1 Awoken. Ability: Low drop. His ability allows him to significantly drop the temperature of anything he touches, almost instantly."
"He's a type 1. No way in hell that he could pull of something like this." Clara said, eyes glued to the screed. "He must have re-awoken, there is no other explanation."
"Clara, in the last 20 years since the Prometheus, there was never a single instance of that happening. Some Awoken do push their abilities past the initial capabilities, but that's usually the end of it. It's a conspiracy theory." Kaito mumbled.
"Then how do you explain THAT?" She said, pointing at a massive piece of ice that was quickly forming above Ivarovski, before being sent flying towards the drone and cutting off the live feed.
[]
(Howdy y'all. This is a bit different from my usual write style, with a more manga like story/narration instead of the standard story/novel format I do. I hope you like it, I came up with it months ago, but due to time constrains with work I haven't gotten around to writing it. Based on how it's received, I may continue this along side Sand & Steel. You can read S&S on here:
Royal Road
Wattpad
Scribble Hub
Hope y'all have a nice day.
-M.W.A.)
submitted by Obvious_Ad4159 to HFY [link] [comments]
Five years after the incident, the world banded together in a unified front, known as the AMA, The Awoken Management Agency, a world wide agency tasked with handling and controlling the Awoken, allowing humanity to once more function as a whole. Satellites have been sent out as far Earth's gaze into space could reach, to watch our for any other potential cosmic events that may occur, like the one that happened with Prometheus back in '25.
Now, 20 years since the first incident, the satellites have picked up another major cosmic event on the horizon, this time coming from the Aquila constellation. Is humanity ready to withstand whatever cosmos has prepared for it?
[]
"Kenji. Wake up! You'll be later for your lectures, again."
The young man groaned, slowly turning to his side in bed, looking at his mother that stood at the doorway. "I'm up, I'm up."
Yawning and stretching, he sat up in bed, running his fingers through his hair, before turning to check the small clock on his nightstand.
"Wha? Late? Mom, it's only 8. Lectures don't start until 10." He sighed.
"Oh well. No need to cut it short, right? Plus, I've made breakfast." His mother replied and went back downstairs.
[]
AMA Information Database:
Kenji Aoto. Age: 21 Category: Type 1 Awoken Ability: Embodiment. The unique ability of Kenji Aoto, unlike other Awoken of the same type, allows him to alter his own body based on how he feels. Most Type 1s change their environment around them, rather than themselves. Type 1s are classified as such for having abilities that considered non dangerous to the general non awoken population.
[]
"We've got a lot of promising talent this year huh?" Nathaniel said to his daughter, as the two looked down at the auditorium full of students. The dean of the university was preparing his usual welcoming speech, as the assistants tried to quiet down the murmurs of the students.
"Yeah, we sure do." Clara smiled, not taking her eyes off the scene. "Quite a good number of Awoken too."
"Anyone interesting in particular?" Nathaniel asked.
"No, not really. They all have the standard abilities you would expect out of a type 1. Same level of control to boot." She responded.
"Well, I look forward to being their professor." Her father smiled, inhaling deeply. "The smell of youthful energy, so amazing. I can still remember your first day as a freshman."
Clara blushed a bit, nudging him in the ribs with her elbow. "Shouldn't you be down there giving your speech, Dr. Offset?"
Nathaniel rubbed the back of his neck with a slightly embarrasses laugh to boot. "Oh don't call me that. Ahem, yeah. I'll be going now. See you later for lunch?"
"Of course dad." Clara smiled, giving her father a little wave as he left the teacher conference room.
[]
AMA Information database:
Clara Harris. Age: 32 Category: Non-Awoken (regular human) The lead ambassador for Awoken rights and unification in the AMA. Daughter of the lead researcher in Awoken development and the head teacher of the Awoken department in Nagoya University, Japan, Nathaniel Harris.
Nathaniel Harris. Age: 55 Category: Type 2 Awoken Ability: Offset. Acquired during the first Prometheus flare, the ability of Dr. Offset (he thought the name was cool when he was in his 20s), allows him to offset numerical values. Though touching an object is not required to use the ability on it, the potency of the ability greatly improved when he has direct contact with it. This also extends to, in theory, numerical values pertaining to objects and their position in space, relative to Nathaniel. Meaning he can move objects or parts of them relative to where he's standing, by changing their coordinates, however there were no recorded instances of him doing so. Examples include: Increasing or reducing the temperature of a beverage by direct contact. Increasing or decreasing friction on a surface of an object temporarily by touching it.
In his youth, Nathaniel attempted to become a sort of hero, once his powers kicked in, but due to the very low potency of his abilities, he never really managed to make the cut as one, despite being a type 2. Type 2s are classified as such due to having abilities that could be considered dangerous, powerful or harmful for the general non awoken population.
[]
Location: Russia, Siberia. Time: 22:37 Facility: Maximum security prison for Awoken criminals in Russia, cell block 5.
Theodore laid in his bunk, staring at the ceiling. Each of his breaths released a soft cloud of vapor, that commonly occurs when someone is in a cold environment. In his case, the vapor was a byproduct of his ability, rather than the cold cell we was in. A thug with a love for violence, turned bank robber when his abilities fully developed, Theodore terrorized Russia and the neighboring countries. It wasn't until the AMA was finally assembled and operational, that he was arrested and sentenced to multiple life sentences in this highest security prison that Russia had at a time.
Even after being sent behind bars, he kept up his antics, becoming a nightmare for the guards and inmates alike. No man that was placed in a cell with him would last more than a few days before demanding transfer. Some even lost their lives to the former thugs whims, before their transfer requests could be approved. Hence Theodore has been placed in solitary, a cell designed with all the tech necessary to nullify his ability. There he spent the last 10 years of his life.
Despite being a type 1, an awoken with abilities that were not classified as dangerous to the general population, Theodore managed to use them to their fullest extent. His blessing of temperature manipulation, was a curse to everyone around him.
He looked outside, at the night sky, through his small cell window. Apparently, there was a big stellar event, similar to the one 20 years ago, that gave him the powers he now has. He heard guards and other inmates talk about it, how AMA is now prepared for such an event.
Theodore closed his eyes, imagining what this aurora would look like. The memory of that night, when Prometheus 673B's flare struck earth still fresh in his mind like it was yesterday. The otherworldly mixture of reds and yellows and greens. Like a primordial fire that was lit across the night sky.
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps outside his cell snapped him out of his memory.
"Huh?" He adjusted in bed, to see who was outside his cell.
A man, in a white cloak with golden details, stood outside his cell. Theodore was confused. The man was not one of the guards, he was bare footed and did not wear any uniform. And no way he was one of the other inmates, no one had the capabilities to leave their cells without being let out.
"Hey, who the hell are you? How did you get here? The guards letting us out or something?" The criminal walked over to his cell door. The bars were made of material that could withstand sudden changes in temperature without bending or breaking, preventing him from getting out.
The man said nothing, he didn't even turn towards the convict, he merely stood there, hood covering his as he looked up at the night sky through the decorative windows on the buildings roof.
"Hey asshat! I asked you a question. How the fuck did you get out of your cell? C'mon man, don't be a dick, let me out too." Theodore grabbed the bars and rattled them.
The cloaked man finally turned towards him. The convict was stunned, only for a second. The man has a beard and long hair, both as white as his cloak. But his eyes, they were as blue as the midday sky. He could have sworn energy seemed to pour out of them. Before he could say another word, the figure before him extended his hand at him, and with a snap of his fingers, a bold of lightning struck Theodore square in the chest. The convict was send flying, back hitting the wall opposite the cell doors.
[]
Location: Brazil, San Paolo. Time: 16:37 Facility: Remodeled Taubaté Prison, cell block 3.
Vitor sat on the bench press, just finishing a set, looking over the prison yard. Even behind bars, his connections did not dwindle. A former petty drug dealer, Vitor Alves quickly rose to power and influence once his powers awoke. He employed other Awoken with criminal tendencies as his own personal task force to drive all other competition into the ground. Once he held the entirety of San Paolo's drug empire in his hand, he set his sights farther. We wanted the entire city for himself, believing that no one could challenge his claim to that right.
With the help of the AMA, the Brazilian government swiftly put his plan to rest, and Vitor behind bars. The fight between the Awoken under Alves and the AMA/Brazilian forces was indeed a bloody one and resulted in a good number of civilian casualties. The drug lord was sent to Taubate, where he would spend the rest of his life. The prison was remodeled, per AMA standards, to be fully equipped and capable of holding Awoken criminals.
Despite having powers of temperature manipulation, capable of increasing temperature to lethal amounts, Vitor did not believe that to be his strongest ability. Money, influence, connections, those were real power, what truly carried him to the top of the criminal world.
Even now, as he sat on the bench press, doing a few reps before looking over the yard, Vitor was not powerless in the outside world. He waited on his informant, his connection to the outside, to appear so he could delegate orders to what was left of his followers and empire on the outside.
He wasn't sure if it was something he ate, or the heat from the pounding sun. Maybe it was even that sky flare that he heard AMA guards mention. Something indeed felt off, his vision seemed a bit blurry. As if the entire prison courtyard was moving slowly right before him. But the informant should be there soon, so Vitor decided not to go back to his cell just yet.
The other inmates, guards, even the basketball that the inmates played hoops with, suddenly slowed down to a halt. Through the statue like crowd, a single figure moved over to Vitor. His feet were bare, his body and face hidden behind a hooded cloak. The drug lord could only see his white beard and his eyes, as they seemed to be glowing a faint blue glow. Before he even got a chance to speak, the man extended his hand towards him and with a smirk, snapped his fingers, sending a bolt of lightning straight into the mans body, causing Vitor to fly several feet and collapse on the ground.
[]
"Ugh... What the fuck man?" Theodore cursed, as he regained his consciousness. Slowly, he got up to his knees, his head pounding like he was struck by a hammer. The cell felt colder than before. Looking around, he saw the entire cell frozen, every surface covered by a thick layer of ice. Bed, toilet, the cell doors, frozen solid. And the ice shifted. With every movement of his hands, the ice followed.
"Could it be?" The inmate whispered, focusing his mind, channeling his ability. Ice began to form in the palm of his hand, morphing freely. With a single wave of his hand, the frozen bed shattered into bits and pieces. Theodore inhaled, getting up to his feet, head still in pain. But the realization was crystal clear. He could now freeze things without having to touch them, manipulate what he froze, as well create ice out by freezing the water in the air. With a grin plastered across his face, Theodore thanked the mysterious man, of who there was not a single trace left, and decided that he's busting himself out of prison.
[]
"WARNING! WARNING! WARNING. PRISON BREAKS DETECTED ACROSS MULTIPLE AMA FACILITIES!" Blared the system on screen at the Awoken Management Agency in Nagoya. Other HQs across the globe received the same warning.
"What the hell is going on?" Clara said, running into the monitoring hall.
"I don't know. Prison breaks, across multiple locations world wide." Kaito replied, his eyes not leaving the monitors as he fired up the surveillance drones on the impacted locations.
"The main facilities that were absolutely totaled are Siberia and San Paolo." He continued.
"Think it could be?" Clara asked.
"Not possible. The protection against solar flares was at full power. Not a single particle should have hit the ground. I mean, we didn't lose any tech, unlike last time." Kaito shot her question down, pulling up the drone feed of the two prisons.
Taubate was in flames. The entire facility seemed to be entirely engulfed in a raging fire. The Russian counterpart held no better either. The entire prison was torn apart by massive glacier like formations, that seemed to jut out of the ground.
Clara, Kaito and other technicians presents stared, slackjawed, at the live drone feed. Something like that was not possible, no Awoken held that level of power. Not even if multiple Awoken united, could they produce that level of destruction across such a large area.
"Wait wait! What's that? Zoom in on one of the glaciers!" One of the technicians said, pointing at the big monitors.
Kaito's fingers flew across the keyboard, as the drone moved closer and the video on screen zoomed to its maximum. On one of the glacier formations, sat a man, clearly an inmate based on the jumpsuit he was wearing.
"Running identification." Chimed the computer.
"Inmate 4012: Theodore Ivarovski. Age: 36. Category: Type 1 Awoken. Ability: Low drop. His ability allows him to significantly drop the temperature of anything he touches, almost instantly."
"He's a type 1. No way in hell that he could pull of something like this." Clara said, eyes glued to the screed. "He must have re-awoken, there is no other explanation."
"Clara, in the last 20 years since the Prometheus, there was never a single instance of that happening. Some Awoken do push their abilities past the initial capabilities, but that's usually the end of it. It's a conspiracy theory." Kaito mumbled.
"Then how do you explain THAT?" She said, pointing at a massive piece of ice that was quickly forming above Ivarovski, before being sent flying towards the drone and cutting off the live feed.
[]
(Howdy y'all. This is a bit different from my usual write style, with a more manga like story/narration instead of the standard story/novel format I do. I hope you like it, I came up with it months ago, but due to time constrains with work I haven't gotten around to writing it. Based on how it's received, I may continue this along side Sand & Steel. You can read S&S on here:
Royal Road
Wattpad
Scribble Hub
Hope y'all have a nice day.
-M.W.A.)
2024.05.19 15:35 Drakeishere_RUN The Year of the Dragon - Part 1 : 2014 Royal Rumble
26/01/2014 - WWE Royal Rumble
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Commentated by Jim Ross, JBL, and Michael Cole
We see some footage of superstars arriving to the arena today. The Authority arrive in a limousine; WWE Champion Randy Orton, Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and Kane. Daniel Bryan is shown walking with Brie Bella. "The Animal" Batista shows up in a truck and flexes for the camera. The feed cuts and glitches out revealing a dark room with a empty rocking chair moving slowly. "We're here."
The iconic voice of Jim Ross welcomes us to the 2014 Royal Rumble as pyro erupts from the stage and the fans go wild. The Authority's music plays and the mood quickly shifts, the crowd rains down boo's. Here comes the WWE World Champion Randy Orton. Orton talks trash to some fans in the front row while Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and Kane make their way out as well. Orton raises the title as HHH passes him a microphone. Orton is in a great mood tonight. He's got the night off and there will be 30 men all vying for a chance to get RKO'ed in the main event of Wrestlemania 30. The crowd chants, “Daniel Bryan” as Orton laughs and promises that Bryan doesn't stand a chance. If you want to win the Royal Rumble you have to be taller than these marks in the crowd, you can't be a front row wrestler like Daniel Bryan or CM Punk. The crowd breaks into a deafening “DANIEL BRYAN/CM PUNK!” chant as Orton highlights some of the past winners like himself, Triple H, and Batista. True superstars who all pass the airport test. Triple H takes the microphone and tells the fans to shut the hell up and respect greatness. The reason The Authority are out here is because they want an answer from Batista. Will The Animal join them, take the #30 spot, and win the Rumble to make the biggest Wrestlemania main event a reality? Batista's music hits and he gets a great reaction. First of all, Batista thanks the Pittsburgh fans and everyone in the WWE for welcoming him back with open arms. Batista has a ton of respect for Triple H and Orton after all those years in Evolution. They all shake hands and it looks like he's accepting the offer. Triple H tells Batista to make the right decision and do whats best for business. Batista gives the THUMBS UP! The Authority are all psyched up until.... Batista, who still has his thumb in the air, says "What's best for business.... is listening to these fans! Doing things the hard way, the same way he did it through his whole career. Batista didn't come back to be handed anything, he came back to prove he can still be The Animal. The man who beat Triple H in the main event of Wrestlemania.... The thumbs up is turned into a THUMBS DOWN! Kane charges at Batista but gets clotheslined! Randy Orton and Tripe H flee from the ring as The Animal delivers a Spinebuster to Kane and rattles the ropes! Triple H screams that Batista is going to regret this decision.....
A video package of the feud between Divas Champion AJ Lee and Mickie James is next. After AJ Lee defeated Naomi to retain her title on RAW, AJ declared she had no competition in the locker room. Cue the surprise return of Mickie James! Former psycho versus current psycho, legend versus future legend. They exchange verbal barbs over the next few weeks, with Mickie picking up some big wins and earning a title match. During a contract signing on the final RAW before the Royal Rumble, things finally turned physical and Mickie put AJ Lee through a table with a huge bulldog from the top rope! Everything comes to a head tonight with the championship on the line.
Tony Chimel lets us know that this contest is scheduled for one fall as Mickie James makes her entrance and gets emotional at the ovation from the audience in Pittsburgh. Divas Champion AJ Lee is next and she gets a mixed reaction; the fans love her but are definitely backing Mickie in this one.
AJ Lee (c) vs. Mickie James for the WWE Divas Championship
The match kicks off with AJ slapping Mickie across the face! James returns the favour and tackles AJ, raining down a flurry of punches. AJ Lee cowers into the corner but then takes advantage by slamming Mickie to the mat by her hair! AJ taunts Mickie and stomps her in the corner but when the champion charges, Mickie backdrops her over the ropes! Mickie hits a Thez Press from the apron and tosses AJ into the barricade!
They battle on the apron until AJ sends Mickie head first into the ringpost. Mickie seems genuinely hurt and the referee goes to check on her, allowing AJ to expose the turnbuckle on the opposite side of the ring. She shows no regard for her possibly injured challenger, ignoring the ref and dragging Mickie back into the centre of the ring. Out of nowhere, James nails the Mick Kick! AJ is down! 1-2-AJ gets her foot underneath the bottom rope! James goes for the Stratus-faction but AJ Lee launches her into the exposed turnbuckle! Mickie James is out cold! 1-2-3! AJ retains!
Result- AJ Lee wins by pinfall via exposed turnbuckle shot. (12:58)
The Royal Rumble tumbler is back! Stephanie McMahon is overseeing things as superstars enter to pick their spots in the Royal Rumble. We see Alberto Del Rio, Brodus Clay, and other superstars pick their numbers. Triple H and Paul Heyman in the background; they shake hands and it appears that HHH hands Heyman something before he walks off.
"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes is here! He introduces his sons, the WWE World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes and Goldust! The champions hug their father and make their way to the ring for a Six Pack Challenge Elimination Match! After being on the wrong side of The Authority, The Rhodes Brothers have been put in quite the predicament as they look to retain their title's against all odds.
Cody Rhodes and Goldust (c) vs. The New Age Outlaws vs. The Prime Time Players vs. Truth & Consequences vs. Hunico and Camacho vs. The Uso's in a Six Pack Challenge Elimination Match for the WWE World Tag Team Championship
Everything breaks down right off the bat. Bodies are flying everywhere. The Uso's hit a pair of dives over the ropes onto a pile of opponents. Back in the ring Hunico and Camacho eat a pair of Superkicks. Uso Splash to Hunico! 1-2-3!
Jey Uso pins Hunico via Uso Splash (Hunico and Camacho are eliminated)
The Prime Time Players take their turn dominating. Titus hits a Sit-Out Spinebuster to Billy Gunn. Darren Young launches Road Dogg from the ring and dropkicks an incoming Jimmy Uso. Xavier Woods comes out of nowhere with a springboard DDT on Titus O'Neil! Darren Young gets hit with a spinning elbow from R-Truth! Woods and Truth connect with a double Scissor Kick on Titus for the 3 count.
R-Truth pins Titus O'Neil via Double Scissors Kick (The Prime Time Players are eliminated)
Road Dogg chopblocks R-Truth immediately and throws him into the ringpost. Woods gets some shots in on Dogg but turns around into a Fameasser from Billy Gunn! 1-2-3!
Billy Gunn pins Xavier Woods via Fameasser (Truth & Consequences are eliminated)
Road Dogg grabs one of the tag title belts and brings it in the ring. The referee tries to stop him but Billy warns the referee that Triple H will fire him if he gets in their way. Billy holds Goldust as Road Dogg charges with the title ---- Goldust low blows Billy Gunn and ducks; Road Dogg knocks out Billy Gunn with the title belt! Cody Rhodes grabs Road Dogg and hits the Cross Rhodes!
Cody Rhodes pins Billy Gunn via Cross Rhodes (The New Age Outlaws are eliminated)
We are down to two teams. The Rhodes Brothers and The Uso's. The teams gather themselves in opposite corners as the crowd swells to a fever pitch. All four slug it out in the middle. Double Superkick to Goldust sends him to the floor. Cody hits the Bionic Elbow to Jimmy! Alabama Slam to Jey! Cody is all fired up! Cody goes for the Cross Rhodes but nearly gets pinned on a roll up. Double Superkick to Cody! Both The Uso's climb to the top rope but Goldust comes back in and drops Jimmy right on his yambags! Goldust meets Jey on the other side and delivers a giant superplex! BUT JIMMY RECOVERS AND FLIES OFF THE TOP! USO SPLASH TO GOLDUST! 1-2-CODY BREAKS UP THE PIN! Cody hits a Disaster Kick to Jimmy but gets Superkicked by Jey! With his last gasp of energy, Goldust nails Jey with the Final Cut! 1-2-3! Cody and Goldust retain!
Goldust pins Jey Uso via The Final Cut
Result- Cody Rhodes and Goldust retain the WWE World Tag Team Championship. (15:59)
CM Punk is taping his wrists in the locker room when Corporate Kane approaches with a bunch of security. Punk stands up ready to defend himself. But Kane tells him to calm down. He's here with a gift from The Authority. Kane hands Punk a Rumble number from the tumbler and tells him on behalf of The Authority, they wish him luck tonight. Kane leaves as punk opens the ball and shakes his head.
A video package showcases the rivalry between the United States Champion Dean Ambrose and Rob Van Dam. After RVD became # 1 Contender, The Shield brutalized him in a 3 on 1 beatdown. The next week, Rob Van Dam attacked Ambrose with a steel chair and delivered a devastating Van Daminator. Ambrose got busted open but the blood seemed to turn him into some kind of maniac. A bloodied Ambrose cut an iconically intense promo backstage in the boiler room where he challenged RVD to a Hardcore match at the Royal Rumble. Rob Van Dam accepted and began to tap into his hardcore style, even going as far as to bring back his old friend Sabu to help him fend off repeated attacks by The Shield. Tonight this rivalry concludes in a Hardcore match for the US Championship.
Dean Ambrose (c) vs. Rob Van Dam for the United States Championship in a Hardcore Match
Van Dam starts off hot with a barrage of kicks to Ambrose. RVD hits his signature barricade legdrop from the apron! He pulls out a kendo stick and starts unloading on the champion. Ambrose stops the beating by raking RVD's eyes and then snapping the kendo stick in half. Ambrose goes berserk, stabbing RVD with the sharp part of the broken kendo stick repeatedly in the corner as JR tells the TV audience to put their kids to bed because "this match is going to be bowling shoe ugly folks". Van Dam slides out of the ring and we see he's bleeding profusely. Ambrose stalks his prey on the outside but RVD tosses a steel chair full speed at his head! RVD goes under the ring and grabs a couple of trash cans and a lid. He smashes Ambrose over the head with the lid and throws him in the ring. RVD sets up a table on the outside but is momentarily distracted, trying to wipe the blood out of his eyes which allows Ambrose to crush one of the trash cans over Van Dam's head. Like a shark that smells blood in the water, Ambrose pounces on RVD and unloads punches to his open cut. The referee pulls him off and checks on RVD. But Ambrose is not done. Far from it. He goes under the ring and grabs a barbed wired baseball bat! As he gets in the ring, RVD kicks the barbed wired bat into Ambrose's face! Spike DDT! Van Dam puts a trash can over Ambrose's head and props him in the corner. VAN TERMINATOR WITH A STEEL CHAIR INTO THE TRASH CAN! RVD slowly drapes his arm over Ambrose. 1-2-Dean somehow kicks out! They exchange punches in the middle of the ring until Ambrose bites RVD's bloody head!!! RVD punches Ambrose just to get him off of him but Dean rebounds with a lariat that turns RVD inside out! Instead of going for the pin, Ambrose picks up the barbed wired baseball bat and smashes RVD in the back repeatedly! Van Dam rolls to the apron but Ambrose follows him and starts grinding the barbed wire in RVD's face! Using the pure adrenaline of survival instinct, RVD reverses into a suplex over the ropes, sending he and Ambrose crashing through the table on the outside!
The fans chant "Holy shit!" as the announcers question how much more these guys, specifically RVD, can take. RVD is first to his feet and throws Ambrose in the ring. RVD climbs to the top rope but Ambrose hits the ropes and causes him to lose balance. He tosses RVD off the top rope onto a trash can! Ambrose goes under the ring and grabs a bag..... The referee tries to stop him but Ambrose shoves him to the ground and empties the contents all over the ring ---- IT'S THUMBTACKS! He turns around and catches a steel chair hurled at him by RVD! VAN TERMINATOR! Ambrose falls into the tacks! RVD goes up top! FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH INTO THE TACKS! "BY GAWD!" Cover! 1-2-Ambrose kicks out by shoving a handful of tacks into RVD's face! Van Dam screams in pain as a now bloody Ambrose pulls himself to his feet and smiles. DIRTY DEEDS ON THE TACKS! 1-2-3!
Result- Dean Ambrose wins by pinfall via Dirty Deeds onto thumbtacks! (22:22)
Rob Van Dam is taken out on a stretcher as Dean Ambrose sits bloodied in the corner, with thumbtacks all over him and the United States Title over his shoulder, admiring his work.
Writer's Note: This match writes RVD out for the foreseeable future to give him a well deserved break. Ambrose is put over as a sadistic, hardcore, psycho path on RVD's way out.
We cut backstage where Mark Henry and The Big Show are picking their numbers. Stephanie McMahon plays nice with the legendary giants, telling them that there are always advantages to helping The Authority. Mark Henry laughs her off and walks out but Big Show appears to contemplate her words. Daniel Bryan walks in and has a face off with Triple H. Bryan wants to pick his Rumble number but HHH tells him there's only one ball left. He teases not giving it to him but places it in his hands. Bryan opens it, shakes his head and smiles, saying he wouldn't expect anything less from The Authority.
A video package on the history of the Royal Rumble match is next, highlighting past winners, elimination records, and obscure statistics. Ladies and gentlemen. We promised you a great main event.
Main Event- 30 Man Royal Rumble Match
1. Daniel Bryan
2. CM Punk
The two heroes of our story; enemies of The Authority that have been given the insurmountable task of winning from the opening spots if they want to main event Wrestlemania. They slug it out and the fans love every second of it.
3. Big E Langston
The Intercontinental Champion gets a chance to showcase his abilities in full spotlight. He tosses Bryan and Punk around much to the chagrin of the crowd. Punk and Bryan team up to stop the onslaught and slow the big man down.
4. Mark Henry
The World's Strongest Man double clotheslines Punk and Bryan before squaring up with Big E. The two meaty men begin slappin' meat until Henry squashes the IC Champion in the corner and takes advantage.
5. Alexander Rusev
The Bulgarian Brute from NXT goes nose to nose with Mark Henry. Rusev kicks Henry in the head and then charges full speed, clobbering him and sending Mark crashing from the ring for our first official elimination of the night!
Alexander Rusev eliminates Mark Henry
6. Evan Bourne
Bourne quickens the pace of the match and hits a barrage of high flying moves until he meets the brick wall known as Rusev. Rusev gets Bourne in a precarious position and clotheslines him so hard that he takes a nasty backflip bump off the apron ala Paul London 2005.
Alexander Rusev eliminates Evan Bourne
Rusev turns around and realizes he's surrounded by Bryan, Punk, and Big E! He fights valiantly but it's no use. YES+ Knee by Bryan! Rusev is rocked but still standing! GTS by Punk! Rusev is STILL somehow on his feet but falls back against the ropes ..... A clothesline from Big E sends Rusev over the ropes for another elimination!
Big E Langston eliminates Alexander Rusev
7. Alberto Del Rio w/Ricardo Rodriguez
As a former World Champion and Royal Rumble winner, Del Rio has to be considered dangerous in this match. He hits a nasty double foot stomp on Big E and trash talks the fans as they boo him out of the building. Bryan and Punk hit a Hart Attack on Del Rio to a massive pop!
8. Kevin Nash
It looks like The Authority have a couple of tricks up their sleeve tonight. Nash immediately targets Punk and Bryan, savouring the boo's from the audience. Meanwhile, Big E nearly has Del Rio eliminated until Rodriguez hops on the apron and allows Del Rio to get the advantage by jamming him thumb in Big E's eye! Del Rio kicks Big E in the face and eliminates the Intercontinental Champion!
Alberto Del Rio eliminates Big E Langston
Del Rio and Nash team up to beat down Punk and Bryan.
9. John Cena
Business is about to pick up! Cena hits the ring and takes the fight to Del Rio and Nash! AA to Del Rio! Nash immediately takes Cena down with a big boot and mocks the fans, pretending to cry. Jackknife Powerbomb to Cena! Nash tosses Punk over the ropes but Punk skins the cat and starts kicking Nash in his surgically repaired knee's.
10. Big Show
Nash throws Punk into the ring post and has a face off with The World's Largest Athlete. Nash extends his hand, wondering if Show is going to take The Authority up on their offer. Big Show teases joining him --- psych! Knockout Punch by Big Show! Nash crumples to the mat. The fans love it as Big Show gets hyped up and then starts chopping Del Rio in the corner.
11. X-Pac
Another surprise return! But is this another legend doing the bidding of The Authority? Pac does some crotch chops and gets a good reaction as he fist bumps The Big Show and hits a Bronco Buster to Del Rio! But X-Pac cannot be trusted as he kicks Big Show right in the family jewels! Kevin Nash pulls himself to his feet and two sweets X-Pac! Nash goes to stomping on The Big Show as Pac charges for a Bronco Buster on Punk ---- Cena takes X-Pac's head off with a clothesline and then AA's him from the ring!
John Cena eliminates X-Pac
Cena, Punk, and Bryan all attack Kevin Nash and buy enough time for Big Show to recover. Show grabs Nash by the throat and pushes him back over the ropes!
Big Show eliminates Kevin Nash
Show, Cena, Punk, Bryan, and Del Rio all fight and try to eliminate each other as the buzzer sounds for the next entrant.
12. Bray Wyatt
The mood has shifted in the arena! Bray Wyatt comes in like an absolute killer, wrecking everyone in his path. Sister Abigail to CM Punk! Daniel Bryan is the last one standing and the crowd breaks out into thunderous "YES!" chants as Bryan and Wyatt exchange stiff slaps and beat the piss out of each other!
13. Erick Rowan
A coincidence or the puppet strings of The Authority? The Wyatt Family now has two members and begin to dominate. Big Show grabs their throats but Rowan breaks free with several headbutts! Big Show slumps back against the ropes --- Wyatt and Rowan dump him to the floor!
Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan eliminate Big Show
Wyatt sits in the corner moving his hands like a orchestra conductor as Rowan chokes Daniel Bryan on the opposite side of the ring. Del Rio tries to eliminate John Cena.
14. Brodus Clay
The Funkasaurus is in no dancing mood, he knows how serious this opportunity is and he also knows what he's up against. As soon as he slides in the ring, Wyatt and Rowan put the boots to him. Clay fights back but it's no use. It's Wyatt Family domination as Bray hits a Sister Abigail and then Rowan throws the big man over the ropes.
Erick Rowan eliminates Brodus Clay
CM Punk is Bray Wyatt's next target but he fights for his life and hits a big roundhouse kick to Rowan! Bray has to fend for himself and he smiles, it's time to dance!
15. Kofi Kingston
Kingston is a house of fire, flying all over the ring. SOS to Bray Wyatt! Trouble in Paradise to Del Rio! Kingston springboards off the ropes but gets caught by Erick Rowan! Rowan press slams Kofi to the outside ---- Kofi lands on the barricade! He trust falls back into the crowd and they surf him around as the arena breaks out into huge "KOFI!" chants.
16. Santino Marella
Santino breaks out THE COBRA! Wyatt does the creepy spider walk which freaks Santino out ---- he eliminates himself and walks to the back!
Santino Marella eliminates himself
17. Ezekiel Jackson
As Jackson walks down to the ring, the crowd bring Kofi back to the barricade and he hops to the apron! Bray Wyatt launches himself into Kofi, sending him flying into in the arms of Ezekiel Jackson! Kofi is all pumped up at avoiding elimination twice but Jackson bodyslams Kofi on the floor! Kofi is now out and Big Zeke has his first elimination before he even gets in the ring!
Ezekiel Jackson eliminates Kofi Kingston
Jackson joins the match and exchanges some shoulder blocks with Erick Rowan. Bray Wyatt continues to brawl with Daniel Bryan while John Cena fights Del Rio.
18. Christian
Captain Charisma joins the match and finds himself squaring off with his old rival Ezekiel Jackson. Jackson gets him up for a Powerslam but Christian fights out and hits the Killswitch! Christian then ducks a Bray Wyatt clothesline and hits a Spear! Del Rio cheapshots Christian and tells the fans to shut up as he chokes Captain Charisma in the corner.
19. Chris Jericho
Y2J makes quite the entrance with a boatload of pyro. Jericho slaps Del Rio and locks in the Walls of Jericho! The ring begins to fill up now as strategy changes this late into the match; nobody wants to risk elimination at this point.
20. The Boogeyman
JBL gets real quiet all of a sudden as the legend crawls out and smashes a clock on his head! Boogeyman gets in the ring and begins eating a handful of worms! This gets Bray Wyatt's attention and the two spooky guys have a staredown. The Eater of Worlds vs. The Eater of Worms. Boogeyman sets Wyatt up for the Pumphandle Slam but Erick Rowan boots him in the head and then tosses him from the ring!
Erick Rowan eliminates The Boogeyman
21. Fandango w/Summer Rae
As Fandango dances his way to the ring, Christian and Jericho team up to eliminate Ezekiel Jackson.
Christian and Chris Jericho eliminate Ezekiel Jackson
Fandango sets his sights on Jericho and shows a more vicious side of himself, stomping Y2J relentlessly. Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan try to eliminate Christian.
22. Luke Harper
The Wyatt Family is now at full strength. They dominate the field and Luke Harper clotheslines Fandango off the apron!
Luke Harper eliminates Fandango
Bray instructs them to eliminate Bryan but Punk and Cena have something to say about that.
23. Bad News Barrett
As Barrett picks the most opportune time to enter, The Wyatt Family gang up on Christian and Bray Wyatt tosses him out!
Bray Wyatt eliminates Christian
Chris Jericho puts up a fight, nailing Rowan with a Codebreaker! The numbers game is still in The Wyatt Family's favour --- Harper decapitates Y2J with a clothesline, and Wyatt eliminates him as well!
Bray Wyatt eliminates Chris Jericho
The clock begins to countdown so Barrett is forced to roll in the ring and Harper attacks him.
24. Shelton Benjamin
AIN'T NO STOPPIN' ME, NOOOO! The Gold Standard makes his return to WWE and gets a nice ovation from the Pittsburgh crowd. He single handedly ends The Wyatt Family's domination by diving onto all three of them! As Bray Wyatt scurries to his feet, Shelton greets him with a T-Bone Suplex! Erick Rowan charges full speed at Daniel Bryan but Bryan avoids him by pulling the rope down and Rowan crashes to the floor!
Daniel Bryan eliminates Erick Rowan
Rowan is pissed and starts dismantling the announce table until the referee's force him to leave. The ring is full of superstars with full intentions of headlining Wrestlemania. Bryan and Punk are spent. Cena too. Del Rio hides in the corner to stay alive. Shelton battles it out with Barrett and Harper. Wyatt pulls himself to his feet.
25. Batista
THE ANIMAL IS HERE! Batista is a one man wrecking crew. Spinebuster to Luke Harper! Batista Bomb to Barrett! Del Rio sneaks up and attempts to toss Batista out but The Animal reverses his momentum and eliminates Del Rio!
Batista eliminates Alberto Del Rio
Batista and Bray Wyatt lock eyes. Wyatt loves it and yells "Show me that Animal, David!" Batista crushes him with a Spear and then finds himself face to face with John Cena. Cena is much more exhausted and ends up getting Spinebustered for his troubles.
26. Roman Reigns
The powerhouse of The Shield enters the ring with bad intentions; Spear to Shelton Benjamin! Superman Punch to Daniel Bryan! Reigns and Batista do battle until Wyatt and Harper attack them ---- Batista and Reigns hit a pair of Spears to The Wyatt Family!
27. Dolph Ziggler
Ziggler comes down with a microphone and tells everyone in the ring that this is his year. Number 27 is the most coveted position as more people have won the Rumble from this spot than any other. He smashes Batista with the microphone and unloads punches on The Animal! Dolph with a Superkick to Barrett and a Zig Zag to John Cena! 10 superstars are left in the ring with 3 more to make their entrance.
28. Seth Rollins
The Architect of The Shield is here and he joins Roman Reigns as they go face to face with Wyatt and Harper! Electricity in the air folks! Things break down; Bray and Roman fight in the corner as Harper drops Rollins with a clothesline! John Cena hoists Luke Harper up and sends him to the floor with an AA!
John Cena eliminates Luke Harper
Bad News Barrett sneaks up and dumps Cena from the ring! John Cena is eliminated! Revenge for The Nexus at last!
Bad News Barrett eliminates John Cena
29. Sheamus
The Celtic Warrior imediately Brogue Kicks Shelton off the apron!
Sheamus eliminates Shelton Benjamin
Everyone fights as the clock counts down for our final entrant.
30. Brock Lesnar w/Paul Heyman
Now we know what Triple H gifted Paul Heyman earlier! The Beast enters the ring and F5's Bad News Barrett to the floor!
Brock Lesnar eliminates Bad News Barrett
Dolph Ziggler jumps on Brock's back and tries to choke him out but Lesnar reverses into an F5 position! Lesnar sends Dolph flying over the ropes!
Brock Lesnar eliminates Dolph Ziggler
Lesnar now targets Batista and hits a series of shoulder blocks in the corner. He picks The Animal up for an F5 but Batista fights out and clotheslines Brock out of the ring!!!
Batista eliminates Brock Lesnar
Brock is in shock along with the announcers and everyone in the arena. He starts pacing around the ring as Batista sets Bray Wyatt up for a Batista Bomb. Lesnar shoves the referee to the ground and slides back in the ring, tossing Batista out!
Brock Lesnar eliminates Batista
Lesnar smashes Batista with the steel steps and then F5's The Animal through the announce table! We're down to five as Rollins and Punk fight on the apron until Punk hits a GTS! Rollins crumbles unconscious to the floor!
CM Punk eliminates Seth Rollins
The final four of the 2014 Royal Rumble: CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, Bray Wyatt, and Roman Reigns. Punk and Bryan entered at number 1 and 2. Incredible accomplishment for them. Roman Reigns Spears Daniel Bryan and then sidesteps Bray Wyatt, sending him flying from the ring!
Roman Reigns eliminates Bray Wyatt
CM Punk hits a GTS on Reigns and all three men are down. Triple H walks down to the ring and rips his jacket off. Kane follows behind him. Punk pulls himself to his feet as tells them to bring it. Randy Orton RKO's CM Punk out of nowhere! The WWE Champion soaks in the boo's as he and Kane throw CM Punk out! "This is bullshit" yells the fans and JR agrees!
Randy Orton and Kane eliminate CM Punk
Triple H smiles and grabs the sledgehammer. Orton and Kane hold Daniel Bryan as HHH charges with the hammer ---- Roman Reigns Spears Triple H! CM Punk pulls Orton from the ring and they brawl into the crowd! Daniel Bryan takes Kane out with the YES+ Knee! With everyone out of the equation, Reigns and Bryan get three minutes of back and forth action, a proper finish to the Rumble. Reigns gets locked in a triangle choke but shows tremendous strength, lifting Bryan up and over the ropes! Bryan holds onto Roman and drags him over with him! They battle on the apron until Bryan viciously kicks Roman in the head! Reigns falls to the floor! Daniel Bryan wins the 2014 Royal Rumble!
Daniel Bryan eliminates Roman Reigns
Winner of the 2014 Royal Rumble: Daniel Bryan
Fireworks explode as Daniel Bryan leads the fans in a YES chant and points at the Wrestlemania sign.
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Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Commentated by Jim Ross, JBL, and Michael Cole
We see some footage of superstars arriving to the arena today. The Authority arrive in a limousine; WWE Champion Randy Orton, Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and Kane. Daniel Bryan is shown walking with Brie Bella. "The Animal" Batista shows up in a truck and flexes for the camera. The feed cuts and glitches out revealing a dark room with a empty rocking chair moving slowly. "We're here."
The iconic voice of Jim Ross welcomes us to the 2014 Royal Rumble as pyro erupts from the stage and the fans go wild. The Authority's music plays and the mood quickly shifts, the crowd rains down boo's. Here comes the WWE World Champion Randy Orton. Orton talks trash to some fans in the front row while Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and Kane make their way out as well. Orton raises the title as HHH passes him a microphone. Orton is in a great mood tonight. He's got the night off and there will be 30 men all vying for a chance to get RKO'ed in the main event of Wrestlemania 30. The crowd chants, “Daniel Bryan” as Orton laughs and promises that Bryan doesn't stand a chance. If you want to win the Royal Rumble you have to be taller than these marks in the crowd, you can't be a front row wrestler like Daniel Bryan or CM Punk. The crowd breaks into a deafening “DANIEL BRYAN/CM PUNK!” chant as Orton highlights some of the past winners like himself, Triple H, and Batista. True superstars who all pass the airport test. Triple H takes the microphone and tells the fans to shut the hell up and respect greatness. The reason The Authority are out here is because they want an answer from Batista. Will The Animal join them, take the #30 spot, and win the Rumble to make the biggest Wrestlemania main event a reality? Batista's music hits and he gets a great reaction. First of all, Batista thanks the Pittsburgh fans and everyone in the WWE for welcoming him back with open arms. Batista has a ton of respect for Triple H and Orton after all those years in Evolution. They all shake hands and it looks like he's accepting the offer. Triple H tells Batista to make the right decision and do whats best for business. Batista gives the THUMBS UP! The Authority are all psyched up until.... Batista, who still has his thumb in the air, says "What's best for business.... is listening to these fans! Doing things the hard way, the same way he did it through his whole career. Batista didn't come back to be handed anything, he came back to prove he can still be The Animal. The man who beat Triple H in the main event of Wrestlemania.... The thumbs up is turned into a THUMBS DOWN! Kane charges at Batista but gets clotheslined! Randy Orton and Tripe H flee from the ring as The Animal delivers a Spinebuster to Kane and rattles the ropes! Triple H screams that Batista is going to regret this decision.....
A video package of the feud between Divas Champion AJ Lee and Mickie James is next. After AJ Lee defeated Naomi to retain her title on RAW, AJ declared she had no competition in the locker room. Cue the surprise return of Mickie James! Former psycho versus current psycho, legend versus future legend. They exchange verbal barbs over the next few weeks, with Mickie picking up some big wins and earning a title match. During a contract signing on the final RAW before the Royal Rumble, things finally turned physical and Mickie put AJ Lee through a table with a huge bulldog from the top rope! Everything comes to a head tonight with the championship on the line.
Tony Chimel lets us know that this contest is scheduled for one fall as Mickie James makes her entrance and gets emotional at the ovation from the audience in Pittsburgh. Divas Champion AJ Lee is next and she gets a mixed reaction; the fans love her but are definitely backing Mickie in this one.
AJ Lee (c) vs. Mickie James for the WWE Divas Championship
The match kicks off with AJ slapping Mickie across the face! James returns the favour and tackles AJ, raining down a flurry of punches. AJ Lee cowers into the corner but then takes advantage by slamming Mickie to the mat by her hair! AJ taunts Mickie and stomps her in the corner but when the champion charges, Mickie backdrops her over the ropes! Mickie hits a Thez Press from the apron and tosses AJ into the barricade!
They battle on the apron until AJ sends Mickie head first into the ringpost. Mickie seems genuinely hurt and the referee goes to check on her, allowing AJ to expose the turnbuckle on the opposite side of the ring. She shows no regard for her possibly injured challenger, ignoring the ref and dragging Mickie back into the centre of the ring. Out of nowhere, James nails the Mick Kick! AJ is down! 1-2-AJ gets her foot underneath the bottom rope! James goes for the Stratus-faction but AJ Lee launches her into the exposed turnbuckle! Mickie James is out cold! 1-2-3! AJ retains!
Result- AJ Lee wins by pinfall via exposed turnbuckle shot. (12:58)
The Royal Rumble tumbler is back! Stephanie McMahon is overseeing things as superstars enter to pick their spots in the Royal Rumble. We see Alberto Del Rio, Brodus Clay, and other superstars pick their numbers. Triple H and Paul Heyman in the background; they shake hands and it appears that HHH hands Heyman something before he walks off.
"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes is here! He introduces his sons, the WWE World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes and Goldust! The champions hug their father and make their way to the ring for a Six Pack Challenge Elimination Match! After being on the wrong side of The Authority, The Rhodes Brothers have been put in quite the predicament as they look to retain their title's against all odds.
Cody Rhodes and Goldust (c) vs. The New Age Outlaws vs. The Prime Time Players vs. Truth & Consequences vs. Hunico and Camacho vs. The Uso's in a Six Pack Challenge Elimination Match for the WWE World Tag Team Championship
Everything breaks down right off the bat. Bodies are flying everywhere. The Uso's hit a pair of dives over the ropes onto a pile of opponents. Back in the ring Hunico and Camacho eat a pair of Superkicks. Uso Splash to Hunico! 1-2-3!
Jey Uso pins Hunico via Uso Splash (Hunico and Camacho are eliminated)
The Prime Time Players take their turn dominating. Titus hits a Sit-Out Spinebuster to Billy Gunn. Darren Young launches Road Dogg from the ring and dropkicks an incoming Jimmy Uso. Xavier Woods comes out of nowhere with a springboard DDT on Titus O'Neil! Darren Young gets hit with a spinning elbow from R-Truth! Woods and Truth connect with a double Scissor Kick on Titus for the 3 count.
R-Truth pins Titus O'Neil via Double Scissors Kick (The Prime Time Players are eliminated)
Road Dogg chopblocks R-Truth immediately and throws him into the ringpost. Woods gets some shots in on Dogg but turns around into a Fameasser from Billy Gunn! 1-2-3!
Billy Gunn pins Xavier Woods via Fameasser (Truth & Consequences are eliminated)
Road Dogg grabs one of the tag title belts and brings it in the ring. The referee tries to stop him but Billy warns the referee that Triple H will fire him if he gets in their way. Billy holds Goldust as Road Dogg charges with the title ---- Goldust low blows Billy Gunn and ducks; Road Dogg knocks out Billy Gunn with the title belt! Cody Rhodes grabs Road Dogg and hits the Cross Rhodes!
Cody Rhodes pins Billy Gunn via Cross Rhodes (The New Age Outlaws are eliminated)
We are down to two teams. The Rhodes Brothers and The Uso's. The teams gather themselves in opposite corners as the crowd swells to a fever pitch. All four slug it out in the middle. Double Superkick to Goldust sends him to the floor. Cody hits the Bionic Elbow to Jimmy! Alabama Slam to Jey! Cody is all fired up! Cody goes for the Cross Rhodes but nearly gets pinned on a roll up. Double Superkick to Cody! Both The Uso's climb to the top rope but Goldust comes back in and drops Jimmy right on his yambags! Goldust meets Jey on the other side and delivers a giant superplex! BUT JIMMY RECOVERS AND FLIES OFF THE TOP! USO SPLASH TO GOLDUST! 1-2-CODY BREAKS UP THE PIN! Cody hits a Disaster Kick to Jimmy but gets Superkicked by Jey! With his last gasp of energy, Goldust nails Jey with the Final Cut! 1-2-3! Cody and Goldust retain!
Goldust pins Jey Uso via The Final Cut
Result- Cody Rhodes and Goldust retain the WWE World Tag Team Championship. (15:59)
CM Punk is taping his wrists in the locker room when Corporate Kane approaches with a bunch of security. Punk stands up ready to defend himself. But Kane tells him to calm down. He's here with a gift from The Authority. Kane hands Punk a Rumble number from the tumbler and tells him on behalf of The Authority, they wish him luck tonight. Kane leaves as punk opens the ball and shakes his head.
A video package showcases the rivalry between the United States Champion Dean Ambrose and Rob Van Dam. After RVD became # 1 Contender, The Shield brutalized him in a 3 on 1 beatdown. The next week, Rob Van Dam attacked Ambrose with a steel chair and delivered a devastating Van Daminator. Ambrose got busted open but the blood seemed to turn him into some kind of maniac. A bloodied Ambrose cut an iconically intense promo backstage in the boiler room where he challenged RVD to a Hardcore match at the Royal Rumble. Rob Van Dam accepted and began to tap into his hardcore style, even going as far as to bring back his old friend Sabu to help him fend off repeated attacks by The Shield. Tonight this rivalry concludes in a Hardcore match for the US Championship.
Dean Ambrose (c) vs. Rob Van Dam for the United States Championship in a Hardcore Match
Van Dam starts off hot with a barrage of kicks to Ambrose. RVD hits his signature barricade legdrop from the apron! He pulls out a kendo stick and starts unloading on the champion. Ambrose stops the beating by raking RVD's eyes and then snapping the kendo stick in half. Ambrose goes berserk, stabbing RVD with the sharp part of the broken kendo stick repeatedly in the corner as JR tells the TV audience to put their kids to bed because "this match is going to be bowling shoe ugly folks". Van Dam slides out of the ring and we see he's bleeding profusely. Ambrose stalks his prey on the outside but RVD tosses a steel chair full speed at his head! RVD goes under the ring and grabs a couple of trash cans and a lid. He smashes Ambrose over the head with the lid and throws him in the ring. RVD sets up a table on the outside but is momentarily distracted, trying to wipe the blood out of his eyes which allows Ambrose to crush one of the trash cans over Van Dam's head. Like a shark that smells blood in the water, Ambrose pounces on RVD and unloads punches to his open cut. The referee pulls him off and checks on RVD. But Ambrose is not done. Far from it. He goes under the ring and grabs a barbed wired baseball bat! As he gets in the ring, RVD kicks the barbed wired bat into Ambrose's face! Spike DDT! Van Dam puts a trash can over Ambrose's head and props him in the corner. VAN TERMINATOR WITH A STEEL CHAIR INTO THE TRASH CAN! RVD slowly drapes his arm over Ambrose. 1-2-Dean somehow kicks out! They exchange punches in the middle of the ring until Ambrose bites RVD's bloody head!!! RVD punches Ambrose just to get him off of him but Dean rebounds with a lariat that turns RVD inside out! Instead of going for the pin, Ambrose picks up the barbed wired baseball bat and smashes RVD in the back repeatedly! Van Dam rolls to the apron but Ambrose follows him and starts grinding the barbed wire in RVD's face! Using the pure adrenaline of survival instinct, RVD reverses into a suplex over the ropes, sending he and Ambrose crashing through the table on the outside!
The fans chant "Holy shit!" as the announcers question how much more these guys, specifically RVD, can take. RVD is first to his feet and throws Ambrose in the ring. RVD climbs to the top rope but Ambrose hits the ropes and causes him to lose balance. He tosses RVD off the top rope onto a trash can! Ambrose goes under the ring and grabs a bag..... The referee tries to stop him but Ambrose shoves him to the ground and empties the contents all over the ring ---- IT'S THUMBTACKS! He turns around and catches a steel chair hurled at him by RVD! VAN TERMINATOR! Ambrose falls into the tacks! RVD goes up top! FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH INTO THE TACKS! "BY GAWD!" Cover! 1-2-Ambrose kicks out by shoving a handful of tacks into RVD's face! Van Dam screams in pain as a now bloody Ambrose pulls himself to his feet and smiles. DIRTY DEEDS ON THE TACKS! 1-2-3!
Result- Dean Ambrose wins by pinfall via Dirty Deeds onto thumbtacks! (22:22)
Rob Van Dam is taken out on a stretcher as Dean Ambrose sits bloodied in the corner, with thumbtacks all over him and the United States Title over his shoulder, admiring his work.
Writer's Note: This match writes RVD out for the foreseeable future to give him a well deserved break. Ambrose is put over as a sadistic, hardcore, psycho path on RVD's way out.
We cut backstage where Mark Henry and The Big Show are picking their numbers. Stephanie McMahon plays nice with the legendary giants, telling them that there are always advantages to helping The Authority. Mark Henry laughs her off and walks out but Big Show appears to contemplate her words. Daniel Bryan walks in and has a face off with Triple H. Bryan wants to pick his Rumble number but HHH tells him there's only one ball left. He teases not giving it to him but places it in his hands. Bryan opens it, shakes his head and smiles, saying he wouldn't expect anything less from The Authority.
A video package on the history of the Royal Rumble match is next, highlighting past winners, elimination records, and obscure statistics. Ladies and gentlemen. We promised you a great main event.
Main Event- 30 Man Royal Rumble Match
1. Daniel Bryan
2. CM Punk
The two heroes of our story; enemies of The Authority that have been given the insurmountable task of winning from the opening spots if they want to main event Wrestlemania. They slug it out and the fans love every second of it.
3. Big E Langston
The Intercontinental Champion gets a chance to showcase his abilities in full spotlight. He tosses Bryan and Punk around much to the chagrin of the crowd. Punk and Bryan team up to stop the onslaught and slow the big man down.
4. Mark Henry
The World's Strongest Man double clotheslines Punk and Bryan before squaring up with Big E. The two meaty men begin slappin' meat until Henry squashes the IC Champion in the corner and takes advantage.
5. Alexander Rusev
The Bulgarian Brute from NXT goes nose to nose with Mark Henry. Rusev kicks Henry in the head and then charges full speed, clobbering him and sending Mark crashing from the ring for our first official elimination of the night!
Alexander Rusev eliminates Mark Henry
6. Evan Bourne
Bourne quickens the pace of the match and hits a barrage of high flying moves until he meets the brick wall known as Rusev. Rusev gets Bourne in a precarious position and clotheslines him so hard that he takes a nasty backflip bump off the apron ala Paul London 2005.
Alexander Rusev eliminates Evan Bourne
Rusev turns around and realizes he's surrounded by Bryan, Punk, and Big E! He fights valiantly but it's no use. YES+ Knee by Bryan! Rusev is rocked but still standing! GTS by Punk! Rusev is STILL somehow on his feet but falls back against the ropes ..... A clothesline from Big E sends Rusev over the ropes for another elimination!
Big E Langston eliminates Alexander Rusev
7. Alberto Del Rio w/Ricardo Rodriguez
As a former World Champion and Royal Rumble winner, Del Rio has to be considered dangerous in this match. He hits a nasty double foot stomp on Big E and trash talks the fans as they boo him out of the building. Bryan and Punk hit a Hart Attack on Del Rio to a massive pop!
8. Kevin Nash
It looks like The Authority have a couple of tricks up their sleeve tonight. Nash immediately targets Punk and Bryan, savouring the boo's from the audience. Meanwhile, Big E nearly has Del Rio eliminated until Rodriguez hops on the apron and allows Del Rio to get the advantage by jamming him thumb in Big E's eye! Del Rio kicks Big E in the face and eliminates the Intercontinental Champion!
Alberto Del Rio eliminates Big E Langston
Del Rio and Nash team up to beat down Punk and Bryan.
9. John Cena
Business is about to pick up! Cena hits the ring and takes the fight to Del Rio and Nash! AA to Del Rio! Nash immediately takes Cena down with a big boot and mocks the fans, pretending to cry. Jackknife Powerbomb to Cena! Nash tosses Punk over the ropes but Punk skins the cat and starts kicking Nash in his surgically repaired knee's.
10. Big Show
Nash throws Punk into the ring post and has a face off with The World's Largest Athlete. Nash extends his hand, wondering if Show is going to take The Authority up on their offer. Big Show teases joining him --- psych! Knockout Punch by Big Show! Nash crumples to the mat. The fans love it as Big Show gets hyped up and then starts chopping Del Rio in the corner.
11. X-Pac
Another surprise return! But is this another legend doing the bidding of The Authority? Pac does some crotch chops and gets a good reaction as he fist bumps The Big Show and hits a Bronco Buster to Del Rio! But X-Pac cannot be trusted as he kicks Big Show right in the family jewels! Kevin Nash pulls himself to his feet and two sweets X-Pac! Nash goes to stomping on The Big Show as Pac charges for a Bronco Buster on Punk ---- Cena takes X-Pac's head off with a clothesline and then AA's him from the ring!
John Cena eliminates X-Pac
Cena, Punk, and Bryan all attack Kevin Nash and buy enough time for Big Show to recover. Show grabs Nash by the throat and pushes him back over the ropes!
Big Show eliminates Kevin Nash
Show, Cena, Punk, Bryan, and Del Rio all fight and try to eliminate each other as the buzzer sounds for the next entrant.
12. Bray Wyatt
The mood has shifted in the arena! Bray Wyatt comes in like an absolute killer, wrecking everyone in his path. Sister Abigail to CM Punk! Daniel Bryan is the last one standing and the crowd breaks out into thunderous "YES!" chants as Bryan and Wyatt exchange stiff slaps and beat the piss out of each other!
13. Erick Rowan
A coincidence or the puppet strings of The Authority? The Wyatt Family now has two members and begin to dominate. Big Show grabs their throats but Rowan breaks free with several headbutts! Big Show slumps back against the ropes --- Wyatt and Rowan dump him to the floor!
Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan eliminate Big Show
Wyatt sits in the corner moving his hands like a orchestra conductor as Rowan chokes Daniel Bryan on the opposite side of the ring. Del Rio tries to eliminate John Cena.
14. Brodus Clay
The Funkasaurus is in no dancing mood, he knows how serious this opportunity is and he also knows what he's up against. As soon as he slides in the ring, Wyatt and Rowan put the boots to him. Clay fights back but it's no use. It's Wyatt Family domination as Bray hits a Sister Abigail and then Rowan throws the big man over the ropes.
Erick Rowan eliminates Brodus Clay
CM Punk is Bray Wyatt's next target but he fights for his life and hits a big roundhouse kick to Rowan! Bray has to fend for himself and he smiles, it's time to dance!
15. Kofi Kingston
Kingston is a house of fire, flying all over the ring. SOS to Bray Wyatt! Trouble in Paradise to Del Rio! Kingston springboards off the ropes but gets caught by Erick Rowan! Rowan press slams Kofi to the outside ---- Kofi lands on the barricade! He trust falls back into the crowd and they surf him around as the arena breaks out into huge "KOFI!" chants.
16. Santino Marella
Santino breaks out THE COBRA! Wyatt does the creepy spider walk which freaks Santino out ---- he eliminates himself and walks to the back!
Santino Marella eliminates himself
17. Ezekiel Jackson
As Jackson walks down to the ring, the crowd bring Kofi back to the barricade and he hops to the apron! Bray Wyatt launches himself into Kofi, sending him flying into in the arms of Ezekiel Jackson! Kofi is all pumped up at avoiding elimination twice but Jackson bodyslams Kofi on the floor! Kofi is now out and Big Zeke has his first elimination before he even gets in the ring!
Ezekiel Jackson eliminates Kofi Kingston
Jackson joins the match and exchanges some shoulder blocks with Erick Rowan. Bray Wyatt continues to brawl with Daniel Bryan while John Cena fights Del Rio.
18. Christian
Captain Charisma joins the match and finds himself squaring off with his old rival Ezekiel Jackson. Jackson gets him up for a Powerslam but Christian fights out and hits the Killswitch! Christian then ducks a Bray Wyatt clothesline and hits a Spear! Del Rio cheapshots Christian and tells the fans to shut up as he chokes Captain Charisma in the corner.
19. Chris Jericho
Y2J makes quite the entrance with a boatload of pyro. Jericho slaps Del Rio and locks in the Walls of Jericho! The ring begins to fill up now as strategy changes this late into the match; nobody wants to risk elimination at this point.
20. The Boogeyman
JBL gets real quiet all of a sudden as the legend crawls out and smashes a clock on his head! Boogeyman gets in the ring and begins eating a handful of worms! This gets Bray Wyatt's attention and the two spooky guys have a staredown. The Eater of Worlds vs. The Eater of Worms. Boogeyman sets Wyatt up for the Pumphandle Slam but Erick Rowan boots him in the head and then tosses him from the ring!
Erick Rowan eliminates The Boogeyman
21. Fandango w/Summer Rae
As Fandango dances his way to the ring, Christian and Jericho team up to eliminate Ezekiel Jackson.
Christian and Chris Jericho eliminate Ezekiel Jackson
Fandango sets his sights on Jericho and shows a more vicious side of himself, stomping Y2J relentlessly. Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan try to eliminate Christian.
22. Luke Harper
The Wyatt Family is now at full strength. They dominate the field and Luke Harper clotheslines Fandango off the apron!
Luke Harper eliminates Fandango
Bray instructs them to eliminate Bryan but Punk and Cena have something to say about that.
23. Bad News Barrett
As Barrett picks the most opportune time to enter, The Wyatt Family gang up on Christian and Bray Wyatt tosses him out!
Bray Wyatt eliminates Christian
Chris Jericho puts up a fight, nailing Rowan with a Codebreaker! The numbers game is still in The Wyatt Family's favour --- Harper decapitates Y2J with a clothesline, and Wyatt eliminates him as well!
Bray Wyatt eliminates Chris Jericho
The clock begins to countdown so Barrett is forced to roll in the ring and Harper attacks him.
24. Shelton Benjamin
AIN'T NO STOPPIN' ME, NOOOO! The Gold Standard makes his return to WWE and gets a nice ovation from the Pittsburgh crowd. He single handedly ends The Wyatt Family's domination by diving onto all three of them! As Bray Wyatt scurries to his feet, Shelton greets him with a T-Bone Suplex! Erick Rowan charges full speed at Daniel Bryan but Bryan avoids him by pulling the rope down and Rowan crashes to the floor!
Daniel Bryan eliminates Erick Rowan
Rowan is pissed and starts dismantling the announce table until the referee's force him to leave. The ring is full of superstars with full intentions of headlining Wrestlemania. Bryan and Punk are spent. Cena too. Del Rio hides in the corner to stay alive. Shelton battles it out with Barrett and Harper. Wyatt pulls himself to his feet.
25. Batista
THE ANIMAL IS HERE! Batista is a one man wrecking crew. Spinebuster to Luke Harper! Batista Bomb to Barrett! Del Rio sneaks up and attempts to toss Batista out but The Animal reverses his momentum and eliminates Del Rio!
Batista eliminates Alberto Del Rio
Batista and Bray Wyatt lock eyes. Wyatt loves it and yells "Show me that Animal, David!" Batista crushes him with a Spear and then finds himself face to face with John Cena. Cena is much more exhausted and ends up getting Spinebustered for his troubles.
26. Roman Reigns
The powerhouse of The Shield enters the ring with bad intentions; Spear to Shelton Benjamin! Superman Punch to Daniel Bryan! Reigns and Batista do battle until Wyatt and Harper attack them ---- Batista and Reigns hit a pair of Spears to The Wyatt Family!
27. Dolph Ziggler
Ziggler comes down with a microphone and tells everyone in the ring that this is his year. Number 27 is the most coveted position as more people have won the Rumble from this spot than any other. He smashes Batista with the microphone and unloads punches on The Animal! Dolph with a Superkick to Barrett and a Zig Zag to John Cena! 10 superstars are left in the ring with 3 more to make their entrance.
28. Seth Rollins
The Architect of The Shield is here and he joins Roman Reigns as they go face to face with Wyatt and Harper! Electricity in the air folks! Things break down; Bray and Roman fight in the corner as Harper drops Rollins with a clothesline! John Cena hoists Luke Harper up and sends him to the floor with an AA!
John Cena eliminates Luke Harper
Bad News Barrett sneaks up and dumps Cena from the ring! John Cena is eliminated! Revenge for The Nexus at last!
Bad News Barrett eliminates John Cena
29. Sheamus
The Celtic Warrior imediately Brogue Kicks Shelton off the apron!
Sheamus eliminates Shelton Benjamin
Everyone fights as the clock counts down for our final entrant.
30. Brock Lesnar w/Paul Heyman
Now we know what Triple H gifted Paul Heyman earlier! The Beast enters the ring and F5's Bad News Barrett to the floor!
Brock Lesnar eliminates Bad News Barrett
Dolph Ziggler jumps on Brock's back and tries to choke him out but Lesnar reverses into an F5 position! Lesnar sends Dolph flying over the ropes!
Brock Lesnar eliminates Dolph Ziggler
Lesnar now targets Batista and hits a series of shoulder blocks in the corner. He picks The Animal up for an F5 but Batista fights out and clotheslines Brock out of the ring!!!
Batista eliminates Brock Lesnar
Brock is in shock along with the announcers and everyone in the arena. He starts pacing around the ring as Batista sets Bray Wyatt up for a Batista Bomb. Lesnar shoves the referee to the ground and slides back in the ring, tossing Batista out!
Brock Lesnar eliminates Batista
Lesnar smashes Batista with the steel steps and then F5's The Animal through the announce table! We're down to five as Rollins and Punk fight on the apron until Punk hits a GTS! Rollins crumbles unconscious to the floor!
CM Punk eliminates Seth Rollins
The final four of the 2014 Royal Rumble: CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, Bray Wyatt, and Roman Reigns. Punk and Bryan entered at number 1 and 2. Incredible accomplishment for them. Roman Reigns Spears Daniel Bryan and then sidesteps Bray Wyatt, sending him flying from the ring!
Roman Reigns eliminates Bray Wyatt
CM Punk hits a GTS on Reigns and all three men are down. Triple H walks down to the ring and rips his jacket off. Kane follows behind him. Punk pulls himself to his feet as tells them to bring it. Randy Orton RKO's CM Punk out of nowhere! The WWE Champion soaks in the boo's as he and Kane throw CM Punk out! "This is bullshit" yells the fans and JR agrees!
Randy Orton and Kane eliminate CM Punk
Triple H smiles and grabs the sledgehammer. Orton and Kane hold Daniel Bryan as HHH charges with the hammer ---- Roman Reigns Spears Triple H! CM Punk pulls Orton from the ring and they brawl into the crowd! Daniel Bryan takes Kane out with the YES+ Knee! With everyone out of the equation, Reigns and Bryan get three minutes of back and forth action, a proper finish to the Rumble. Reigns gets locked in a triangle choke but shows tremendous strength, lifting Bryan up and over the ropes! Bryan holds onto Roman and drags him over with him! They battle on the apron until Bryan viciously kicks Roman in the head! Reigns falls to the floor! Daniel Bryan wins the 2014 Royal Rumble!
Daniel Bryan eliminates Roman Reigns
Winner of the 2014 Royal Rumble: Daniel Bryan
Fireworks explode as Daniel Bryan leads the fans in a YES chant and points at the Wrestlemania sign.
2024.05.19 14:53 Sqall_Lionheart_ How flying under the reaper boosted our confidence and allowed us to improve
Last post for a while, I swear, I just happened to be able to play with friends and we had an eventful weekend and I can interact a bit while stuyding.
So how it started: we lost our gilded voyage loot. How? incompetence. We cold have double boarded the galleon that raised the sails to bomard our brig and stole it, we could have just beelined with the wind to another outpost, we could have seen that the friend of our alliance left us to go sell his loot (they were a duo, but his friend was talking with his GF on the phone and was basically playing his own game for the past hour), we could have rammed first when we respawned instead of trying a drive by etc. Point is, we recovered scraps from this gally server hoppers (I assume), and it was our own fault we lost it. We tried HG, but tilted as we were, the first match being someone who shot down our mast in 0.3 sec after the invasion started, didn't exactly coold the spirits, so I took an executive decison. If our cowardice and inexperience were our doom, we would have sailed the seas with an open challenge: we would become reapers. And so we raised the flag and decided to start our first night as reapers doing the OoS guilded voyage. During the whole trip the mood wasn't "omg I hope people don't pull up", it was "WHEN are people pulling up?". And pulling up they did. At the end of the voyage we successfully sunk 4 ships and secured our gilded voyage. The mindset was that they either feared us and stay away, or the moment that they were in the vicinity they were a threat, no if or buts, they could have had a voyage in the same island, but since the moment that people on console don't use the game chat (source PS5 guy), we only saw combat in sight.
Yestarday we sailed once again under the reaper's, and we successfully defeated 3 ships, reached level 5 and sold, preparing to sail for a skull fort. When we were about to sell the last 7 dark skulls, someone else raised the reaper's or I assume came out of a single HG victory cause they were level 3, sinked us when we were stationary (our ship somehow clipped with a patch of sand and would'nt go forward). We sail back for them, but they sell the 5 dark skulls remaining, after reaching either level 4 or 5, and they quit. I know that because we see their ship sinking while we approached the hideout.
What do we do? We sail for an HG match, and we win against some guys who kept saying "we are cooking them bro" "they think they are smart but they aren't". Spoiler: we weren't being cooked and I basically boarded 3 times, stealing all their supplies, and one time the guy complitely misses me and says "he's so low". I died because instead of shooting the blund against his friend I took out the fruit only to discover that I was full HP and get one blunded myself.
Anyway we exit with a win, and the active skull fort in that server get's replaced with a FoF. They say that third time is the charm and it definetly was: we sailed for a ghost fortress, raided for supplies and headed to the FoF as lvl3 reapers, we complete the fort extremely quick, get all the loot and head out for the hideout. We end up the night with our current crowning achievement: raiding and securing a fort as reapers.
We started off as scaredy cats, but when we decided to be reapers, we immediately filled up with confidence, knowing that we would have been attacked, but we wouldn't fight to escape, we would fight to sink. I cannot reccomend enough to fellow new players to fly under the reapers once you got a grasp of the ship: you shift your mentality from "oh bother, they found me of all people" to "I was exepecting you, we either lose everything or we ball". If you were to find people with more experience, chances are that you would have lost anyway, only thing that changed is that you allowed them to find you because you wanted practice. If you wanted to make safe gold, you most likely would have flied under the GH, not the reaper. If your mentality with the reapers is to get that 2.5x, hoping that NO ONE will come for you with the mark because "ooooh, reaper scary", you will only swallow a bitter pill when everything comes crashing down.
submitted by Sqall_Lionheart_ to Seaofthieves [link] [comments]
So how it started: we lost our gilded voyage loot. How? incompetence. We cold have double boarded the galleon that raised the sails to bomard our brig and stole it, we could have just beelined with the wind to another outpost, we could have seen that the friend of our alliance left us to go sell his loot (they were a duo, but his friend was talking with his GF on the phone and was basically playing his own game for the past hour), we could have rammed first when we respawned instead of trying a drive by etc. Point is, we recovered scraps from this gally server hoppers (I assume), and it was our own fault we lost it. We tried HG, but tilted as we were, the first match being someone who shot down our mast in 0.3 sec after the invasion started, didn't exactly coold the spirits, so I took an executive decison. If our cowardice and inexperience were our doom, we would have sailed the seas with an open challenge: we would become reapers. And so we raised the flag and decided to start our first night as reapers doing the OoS guilded voyage. During the whole trip the mood wasn't "omg I hope people don't pull up", it was "WHEN are people pulling up?". And pulling up they did. At the end of the voyage we successfully sunk 4 ships and secured our gilded voyage. The mindset was that they either feared us and stay away, or the moment that they were in the vicinity they were a threat, no if or buts, they could have had a voyage in the same island, but since the moment that people on console don't use the game chat (source PS5 guy), we only saw combat in sight.
Yestarday we sailed once again under the reaper's, and we successfully defeated 3 ships, reached level 5 and sold, preparing to sail for a skull fort. When we were about to sell the last 7 dark skulls, someone else raised the reaper's or I assume came out of a single HG victory cause they were level 3, sinked us when we were stationary (our ship somehow clipped with a patch of sand and would'nt go forward). We sail back for them, but they sell the 5 dark skulls remaining, after reaching either level 4 or 5, and they quit. I know that because we see their ship sinking while we approached the hideout.
What do we do? We sail for an HG match, and we win against some guys who kept saying "we are cooking them bro" "they think they are smart but they aren't". Spoiler: we weren't being cooked and I basically boarded 3 times, stealing all their supplies, and one time the guy complitely misses me and says "he's so low". I died because instead of shooting the blund against his friend I took out the fruit only to discover that I was full HP and get one blunded myself.
Anyway we exit with a win, and the active skull fort in that server get's replaced with a FoF. They say that third time is the charm and it definetly was: we sailed for a ghost fortress, raided for supplies and headed to the FoF as lvl3 reapers, we complete the fort extremely quick, get all the loot and head out for the hideout. We end up the night with our current crowning achievement: raiding and securing a fort as reapers.
We started off as scaredy cats, but when we decided to be reapers, we immediately filled up with confidence, knowing that we would have been attacked, but we wouldn't fight to escape, we would fight to sink. I cannot reccomend enough to fellow new players to fly under the reapers once you got a grasp of the ship: you shift your mentality from "oh bother, they found me of all people" to "I was exepecting you, we either lose everything or we ball". If you were to find people with more experience, chances are that you would have lost anyway, only thing that changed is that you allowed them to find you because you wanted practice. If you wanted to make safe gold, you most likely would have flied under the GH, not the reaper. If your mentality with the reapers is to get that 2.5x, hoping that NO ONE will come for you with the mark because "ooooh, reaper scary", you will only swallow a bitter pill when everything comes crashing down.
2024.05.19 12:55 Stage-Piercing727 Best Carry Handle Scope
 | submitted by Stage-Piercing727 to u/Stage-Piercing727 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/fw3vaoj16d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f746be7a3b8a7925727f9811d39222dd26be9909 Get ready to enhance your shooting experience with our top picks for carry handle scopes. These versatile devices not only provide excellent clarity and accuracy but also come with a convenient carry handle for easy transportation and handling. Explore our roundup of the best carry handle scopes on the market, sure to impress any outdoor enthusiast or professional marksman. The Top 19 Best Carry Handle Scope
Reviews🔗Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 Black Ir-E Crossbow Scope with LED Illuminationhttps://preview.redd.it/3qq4og626d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fc7676684001ccf5ae92a483625cebd5991def58 I recently had the opportunity to try out the Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 Ir-E Crossbow Scope. This black 1021 model was a great addition to my hunting gear, providing exceptional clarity thanks to its multicoated optics and 1-inch mono tube construction. The fast focus eyepiece is a game-changer, allowing me to quickly adjust my sight even when on the move. One feature that stood out was the illuminated cross-hair reticle, which came in both blue and red. It was perfect for low-light situations, making it easier for me to spot my target. I appreciated the adjustment click value of 0.5 inches at 100 yards, as it gave me accurate and consistent shot adjustments. However, there were a few downsides to this otherwise great scope. The exit pupil was smaller than I would have liked, making it a bit more challenging to see the cross-hair reticle at times. Additionally, the scope's weight was lighter than expected, which might not have been ideal for everyone. Overall, I'm happy with my experience using the Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 Ir-E Crossbow Scope. It's a quality product with some small drawbacks, but its pros certainly outweigh the cons. If you're in the market for a reliable crossbow scope, this one is definitely worth considering. 🔗Mil-Spec Detachable AR-15 Carry Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/6d7ydxc26d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ee10f8948f8cbfd7095ce367789dcf067a5aeed I recently had the chance to try out this detachable carry handle for an AR-15 rifle. The black finish perfectly matched the rest of my gun, and the Mil-Spec construction added a level of durability I hadn't experienced before. Attaching and detaching it was a breeze, and it blended well with my existing red dot sight. However, I did find that it added a bit of weight to the overall gun, which I noticed especially after carrying it for extended periods of time. Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone looking to add a reliable carrying handle to their AR-15 setup. 🔗National Geographic Handheld Telescope - CF600, 50mm Aperture, Explore the Starshttps://preview.redd.it/ciylb7o26d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c3836466afdba226d7889d9609c4cde2d57c1748 The National Geographic CF600 Carbon Fiber telescope has been my trusty companion for some stargazing sessions. Its sleek black carbon fiber design not only looks cool but is sturdy enough to handle the wear and tear of my eager fingers. The scope's 50mm lens and focal length of 600mm provide a great starting point for anyone interested in amateur astronomy, allowing me to get a decent view of the moon and some of the brighter stars in the night sky. One of the telescope's standout features is the alt-azimuth mount and tripod combo. It's smooth and easy to use, making it simple for me to move the scope up, down, and side to side while scanning the sky. I appreciate the two included eyepieces, which offer a range of magnification options, making the scenery even more intricate and detailed. However, my experience hasn't been entirely rosy. The tripod and pan handle could have been more robust. I found that they tended to wobble and shake, not necessarily due to the weight of the telescope but the vibration of my hands as I adjusted the scope. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's a noticeable drawback. Overall, the National Geographic CF600 Carbon Fiber telescope is a great first telescope for the aspiring astronomy enthusiast in need of a simple and stylish tool to explore the night sky. With a few improvements, it could offer an even more enchanting starry-eyed experience. 🔗Versatile 50mm APO Astrograph Guide Scope with Finder Stalk and T-Threadshttps://preview.redd.it/fc0kvfo36d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e126357ee449efb5feca98ad2c48188c5fb2fb1c I've been using the Sky-Watcher EvoGuide 50DX as my guide scope for a few weeks now, and let me tell you, it's been quite the journey. The first thing that struck me was the stunning contrast of the images it delivered. The ED glass really does its job in providing those deep, rich views of the stars. The finder stalk and V-style mounting rail made it a breeze to attach this little gem to my bracket. It was a smooth process and really made me feel like a pro astronomer. Although it's not a huge scope, its focal length of 242mm and f/4.8 aperture have proven to be a great match for my astrophotography. The built-in T-threads are also a bonus. With an optional adapter, I can easily transform it into a low-focal length astrograph. It's perfect for those times when I want to change up my observing style. However, there have been a few hiccups. Sometimes, the centering screws seem to play too loose, making it a bit of a challenge to get the telescope perfectly aligned with the mount. But overall, it's been a great addition to my stargazing setup. 🔗Portable 40x60 Monocular Telescope with Smartphone Holder and Tripodhttps://preview.redd.it/z4ev1ao36d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e4d93c8f234736d395a5c3c08421c4568d3b7570 As someone who's spent countless hours enjoying the great outdoors, I can confidently say that the Pankoo Monocular Telescope has become one of my go-to accessories. While hiking, I used it to observe the mesmerizing birdlife, and during a camping trip, I utilized its tripod to observe the night sky. The sharp, clear imagery that I saw through this telescope made every experience more unforgettable. However, there's one drawback – the product could have been easier to handle if it came with a carry handle. This 40x60 monocular is no stranger to diverse environments, making it suitable for every age as well as numerous outdoor activities. Climbing, hiking, driving, racing, traveling, sightseeing – this telescope is the perfect companion for them all! The added features, such as the smartphone holder and tripod, make it even more convenient to use on the go. The accompanying velvet bag, dust cover, and cleaning cloth ensure that your telescope stays pristine and ready for your next adventure. The user manual provided makes it easy to understand how to operate the telescope, completing the package. Overall, the Pankoo Monocular Telescope is a must-have for anyone eager to explore the world around them, but just remember to add a carry handle for optimal ease of use! 🔗Simmons Venture Black FMCWPTRIPODHARD/Soft Case Spotting Scopehttps://preview.redd.it/hf5ofsu36d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8e2eb9aae7a9fff6ebe9ddd3afb38bbba7e1e31 As a hunting enthusiast, I've used the Simmons 15-45x60 Venture Black FMCWPTripodHard/Soft Case spotting scope for several months, and it has proven to be a reliable option. The fully-multi coated optics deliver a bright image, even in low-light conditions, which is crucial when hunting at dawn and dusk. The scope's sturdy tabletop tripod with a built-in window mount ensures a stable viewing experience. One feature that stood out is the hard plastic case that safely stores the scope and tripod. The soft carrying case is a plus for easy transportation in the field. The lens has excellent clarity, making it great for identifying and tracking game at varying distances. However, I noticed that the eye relief can be uncomfortable when using higher magnification levels. Overall, the Simmons 15-45x60 Venture Black FMCWPTripodHard/Soft Case is a solid spotting scope option for hunters looking for affordability without sacrificing performance. The accessories make it a convenient and complete package for outdoor adventures. 🔗Klein Tools ET16 Borescope for Android Devices with Removable Carry Handle and 10-Foot Gooseneck Cablehttps://preview.redd.it/7rhlctg46d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=34d49bf9bcafdafdd9b2aedd2e6b9010688f4d2d I recently tried the Klein Tools ET16 Borescope for Android devices, and my experience was quite interesting. The product features a 10-foot (3m) armored gooseneck cable, which is a great addition for extended reach. However, I noticed that the camera seemed a bit tricky to operate with one hand while holding the phone in the other. One of the highlights of the product is its waterproof IP67 9 mm camera, which captures high-quality 640 x 480 pixel images and videos. I had no issues sharing these images and videos via text or email using the Klein Tools App available on Google Play store. While the borescope app is available on Google Play store, I found that some users experienced difficulties in connecting the device. I personally didn't face such an issue, but I noticed that the app didn't require any additional charging as it runs off the phone battery. Overall, my experience with the Klein Tools ET16 Borescope was mixed. On one hand, the product's features worked well and helped me capture images and videos effortlessly. However, the issue with the app not working for some users is a concern that the company needs to address. Despite the minor drawbacks, I still found the product to be useful for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. 🔗Ergonomic Black Mamba Top Handle for Enhanced Shooting Controlhttps://preview.redd.it/om51zkm46d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e02f2eae3e59e163a1e5a577bb1760b5e28cbeac As a photography enthusiast, the SmallRig Black Mamba Top Handle quickly became my go-to accessory for capturing those perfect moments. The ergonomic design not only makes it a comfortable addition to my camera, but also enhances my shooting experience at any angle. The compact, lightweight construction of this top handle, made of aluminum alloy and silica gel, is a game changer for those of us who don't want to be weighed down during our shoots. One of the standout features of this handle is its sleek, Black Mamba-inspired shape, which not only exudes style, but also provides a smooth feel in my hands. However, I did notice that the top handle could use a few locking mechanisms to secure it more firmly on the device. Other than that, this top handle has become an essential part of my camera setup, truly elevating my photography experience. 🔗Lightweight Carbon Fiber Shovel Handle for Ultimate Digging Experiencehttps://preview.redd.it/zip0eqy46d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e53c57b6502ba1f72bce73192b64ef2abd16b8f2 I recently tried out this Carbon Fiber Travel Sand Scoop Shovel Handle Universal Lightweight Pole for Beach Metal Detecting Treasure Hunting Long Tube Rod and I must say, it was quite the handy tool. The carbon fiber material made it both robust and lightweight, which was a great combination for a tool that would be used for long periods of time. One of the standout features was the multi-functionality of the tool. It could be used for sand scooping, metal detecting and other activities, making it a great universal choice. The lightweight long pole provided a comfortable grip that was not easily slipped from my hand, ensuring a secure hold on the scoop. The scoop itself was quite handy, sifting out sand and dirt with ease, leaving just the metal object behind. Suitable for use on the beach, in water, or with a metal detector, this pole ensured optimal performance even when used for extended periods of time. Overall, I was quite impressed with the product and would definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys gardening and outdoor activities. 🔗Movcam Lens Carry Handle for Arri Alura Lenseshttps://preview.redd.it/qlo50ah56d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f7e5e93feb2a8520b793ccf0f3d23552b9a43cd2 The Movcam Lens Carry Handle became an essential addition to my filmmaking kit. This ergonomic and robust handle perfectly complemented my Arri Alura 45-250mm lens, providing the perfect balance of comfort and stability. The handle easily attached to the lens, allowing for smooth and seamless transitions during shooting without the need for any additional tools or attachments. However, the Movcam Lens Carry Handle also had some minor drawbacks that needed to be addressed. First, the grip felt quite slick, making it difficult to achieve a secure hold when shooting in wet or slippery conditions. Second, the handle was not adjustable, making it challenging to accommodate different users or scenarios. These drawbacks did not significantly impact my overall satisfaction with the product, as I found the Movcam Lens Carry Handle to be a reliable and valuable companion during my film endeavors. 🔗Explore the Universe with Titan 70mm Telescope - Rotatable 360° and Smartphone Adapterhttps://preview.redd.it/db1b7no56d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4f56d4c5b1ca1b13fa7d5c006cd14cc3434896d1 Exploring the cosmos just got easier with the Titan 70mm telescope. Its sleek design, portability, and ease of use make it a favorite for both beginners and experienced stargazers. With a 360mm focal length, this refractor offers two eyepieces for magnifications of 18x and 60x, enabling users to truly appreciate the beauty of the lunar terrain or deep sky wonders. One of the standout features of this telescope is the fully rotatable diagonal, which allows for the perfect viewing angle regardless of your position. And with the convenience of a full-length AZ panhandle mount, navigating the night sky is a breeze. Another highlight is the included smartphone adapter, which captures the wonders you see in the eyepiece and saves them for future exploration. And, for those who want to take their stargazing on the go, a travel case is provided, making this telescope a must-have for any space enthusiast. 🔗DJI RS Series Handheld Gimbal Briefcase Handle Reviewhttps://preview.redd.it/j65car166d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eb090c96bbff9718a78de90e0aabcec5dcd88af3 Imagine a cinematographer armed with a sleek new tool — the DJI Briefcase Handle for RS Series. As someone who's tested it in real life, let me share my experience. Picture this: on a challenging set, this unassuming handle becomes your guardian angel, providing the extra stability and comfort you need for those low-angle shots. The first thing that stood out to me was the handle's design. It was lighter and smaller than I expected, making storage a breeze. The compatibility with the DJI RS series handheld gimbals is a breath of fresh air, and the lack of additional tools required for mounting is a huge plus. However, I did notice a small issue with the locking mechanism. If not tightened properly, it could potentially lead to an expensive drop. But this is a minor issue, and it's clear that the handle provides more stability and ease of use than I've experienced with other gimbals. It's become an essential part of my kit. Overall, the DJI Briefcase Handle for RS Series gets a solid 4.5 stars from me. It's an investment worth making for those seeking professional-quality, low-angle shots. 🔗UZI 5x20 Periscope: Adjustable Height, Durable and Weatherproof, with Detachable Handle and Carrying Casehttps://preview.redd.it/vbtzisi66d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1f68460a5111d628f84e1ce5e10faaa699095dcf In my experience, the UZI 5x20 Periscope has been a handy tool for surveillance and exploration. Made of durable anodized aluminum housing, this periscope offers a sleek and weatherproof design. The glass lenses and prisms provided a sharp and clear view, allowing me to see in detail from a distance. One feature that stood out is the focusing eyepiece, which made it easy to adjust the focus based on the distance to the object I was observing. However, the lack of a detachable handle made it more difficult to hold and maneuver the periscope confidently when using it for extended periods. The height adjustment was a great addition, allowing me to see above and around obstacles for an improved view. The carrying case with a shoulder strap also made it convenient to transport and store the periscope when not in use. Overall, the UZI 5x20 Periscope has been a reliable tool for my daily needs, but its lack of a detachable handle and potential for some difficulty in assembling the scope properly were noticeable drawbacks. 🔗Compact NATO Top Handle for Select Sony Camerashttps://preview.redd.it/kugs2wv66d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=71d78bb5ab171d5c52f7a26dfee5730d8935f3ab This Compact Nato Top Handle from Tilta has been a game-changer in my daily video shooting routine. It's a comfortable and ergonomic addition to my Sony a7 IV full camera cage, providing a secure attachment. The aluminum and stainless steel construction adds a sleek touch to my setup, and the black finish blends in perfectly. One of the highlights of this handle is its compatibility with select Tilta cages, making it a versatile accessory. The multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 mounting points come in handy when attaching external accessories. Even the front cold shoe mounting point is a great feature. However, I couldn't help but notice an issue with the rear Arri mount holes. They appear to have the smaller, non-standard screw, making it incompatible with some accessories I wanted to use. Despite this minor setback, the overall experience with this handle has been positive. Its compact design suits small cameras well, and the Nato rails on the other side add an extra layer of stability. The aluminum and stainless steel construction not only adds ruggedness but also gives it a premium look. So, if you're looking for a comfortable handle with a minimalist design, this Tilta handle is worth considering. 🔗Portable Telescope Carry Handle for VC, VMC, and Refractor Modelshttps://preview.redd.it/zbwctfm76d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=066302ff63901428728eac97293d54c700f7228e As an enthusiastic amateur astronomer, I've been keeping a close eye out for accessories and tools that make handling my telescope smoother and more enjoyable. That's why when I stumbled upon the Vixen Optics Metal Carry Handle, I couldn't resist giving it a try. From the get-go, this little handle seemed like a practical and sturdy solution to make transporting my telescope much more manageable. The metal construction provided me with the reassurance of durability, not to mention it offered a perfect balance of weight distribution. However, it wasn't until closer inspection that I noticed a few essential details. For starters, the handle was designed solely for specific telescope models (VC, VMC, and refractor types), and it appeared that not every telescope would be compatible. Additionally, it came with only one screw, and the lack of a multi-tool was somewhat disappointing. Despite these minor quibbles, I found the Vixen Optics Metal Carry Handle to be a worthwhile investment. It has greatly streamlined my stargazing experience, giving me peace of mind as I transport my telescope to different locations with ease. Buyer's Guidehttps://preview.redd.it/omrinrg96d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6dbb0727523820de16b9d31a3c3aaea2991d8ce4 When it comes to scope selection, a carry handle scope is a versatile and practical choice for many shooters. Whether you're an avid hunter, target shooter, or competitive marksman, a carry handle scope can provide you with a reliable and accurate sighting system. In this buyer's guide, we'll discuss the features and considerations that are important when selecting a carry handle scope. We'll also provide some general advice to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right scope for your needs. Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/va64q2l96d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=60454f9b896fde2586b173e8e1723a59ac1a9bc5 Carry Handle DesignA carry handle scope should have a strong and durable carry handle that allows for easy and comfortable carrying of your firearm. Look for a handle that is ergonomically designed and made from a material that provides a good grip, such as rubber or polymer. The scope should also have a solid mount that securely attaches the scope to your firearm, ensuring a stable and aligned sight picture.Lens Qualityhttps://preview.redd.it/raeaumy96d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7f352a4b5b4b3f5e62030ff53a2a3a2f14781994 The quality of the lenses in a carry handle scope is essential for accurate and clear sighting. Look for a scope with high-quality lenses made from low-dispersion glass, which reduces chromatic aberration and provides a crisp and clear image. The lenses should also be fully multi-coated to minimize glare and improve light transmission. This will result in a brighter, clearer, and sharper image, even in low-light conditions. Magnification and Objective Lens SizeThe magnification and objective lens size of a carry handle scope are important factors to consider. The magnification determines how much the image is magnified, while the objective lens size affects the amount of light that enters the scope. A scope with a larger objective lens will typically provide a brighter image, while higher magnification allows you to see targets at greater distances. Choose a scope with the appropriate magnification and objective lens size based on your shooting needs and environment. https://preview.redd.it/u4haf5ma6d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7bed87eef69027bbe9aee804c903f7fe195cd408 ConsiderationsBudgetAs with any purchase, budget is an important consideration when shopping for a carry handle scope. Higher-end scopes will typically offer better optics, more advanced features, and a more robust construction. However, there are also many quality scopes available within a lower price range. Consider your budget and the priorities for your shooting needs when selecting a carry handle scope.Purpose and EnvironmentThe purpose and environment in which you will be using your carry handle scope are also important factors to consider. Hunters may require a scope with a greater magnification range and more advanced features for precise shot placement, while target shooters and competitive marksmen may prioritize clarity and accuracy at a fixed range. The environmental conditions you will be shooting in, such as light levels and weather, should also be taken into account when selecting a carry handle scope.AdviceWhen looking for a carry handle scope, it's essential to read reviews and do your research. Talk to other shooters, consult with a professional at your local shooting or outdoor store, and read online forums and reviews to get an idea of what to expect from different scopes. Be sure to properly test the scope in your environment before making a final decision, and always follow proper scope mounting and care procedures to ensure the best performance and longevity.As with any purchase, be sure to choose a carry handle scope from a reputable manufacturer or retailer. This will help ensure that you are getting a quality product with reliable performance. Lastly, don't forget to factor in the cost of additional accessories, such as scope covers, sunshades, and mounts, which may be necessary for optimal performance and protection of your scope. FAQ**### What is a Carry Handle Scope?**A Carry Handle Scope is a type of rifle scope that is designed for hunting and long-range shooting. It combines a rugged construction with multiple reticle options to enhance accuracy and versatility. The carry handle scope is easily mounted above the rifle's action and is typically used in situations that require quick target acquisition.**### What are some popular brands for Carry Handle Scopes?**Popular brands for Carry Handle Scopes include Leupold, Vortex Optics, Bushnell, and Primary Arms. These brands offer a range of styles, magnification options, and reticles to cater to various shooting needs. **### What types of reticles are available on Carry Handle Scopes?**There are several types of reticles available on Carry Handle Scopes, including the BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), Mil-Dot, and Illuminated reticles. BDC reticles display graduations that can be used to calculate bullet drop at different distances, while Mil-Dot reticles offer adjustments for both elevation and windage in terms of milliradians. Illuminated reticles allow for improved visibility in low-light conditions. ### What are the advantages of using a Carry Handle Scope verses other types of scopes?* Carry Handle Scopes are lightweight and compact, making them an ideal choice for those who prioritize mobility.
### How do I choose the right Carry Handle Scope for my needs?* Consider the type of shooting you'll be doing and select a scope with a suitable reticle and magnification range.
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2024.05.19 12:33 Significant-Tower146 Best Carolina Rig Hook
 | submitted by Significant-Tower146 to u/Significant-Tower146 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/mman9a7z1d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=579ffd01ffe0b4e52f4e93312b371a33bf2744e8 Welcome, fishing enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of Carolina Rig Hooks. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting your fishing journey, our roundup of top-rated Carolina Rig Hooks is sure to pique your interest. From their durability to their versatility, these hooks are a must-have in any fisherman's tackle box. So, buckle up as we explore the best Carolina Rig Hooks on the market, and get ready to reel in some fantastic catches! The Top 20 Best Carolina Rig Hook
Reviews🔗Mustad Carolina Rig Fishing Hook Kithttps://preview.redd.it/mqhh1wsz1d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0ed00f3de9abc1bfaf7117f96cbb0564e8275190 Using the Mustad Carolina Rig Assorted Fishing Hook Kit in my local river was a game-changer. The variety in sizes and materials of the hooks in the kit allowed me to test out different techniques with ease. They were well-made and sturdy, allowing me to catch several fish with just a few modifications to my lure. However, I encountered a slight challenge when trying to attach the weight to the hook. The connection wasn't as smooth as I'd hoped, and it took a bit more time to get it right. The kit also lacked instructions, which might have made this process easier for a beginner. Despite these small setbacks, the Carolina Rig Assorted Fishing Hook Kit made my fishing experience more enjoyable and versatile. Its array of hooks and additional accessories made it a valuable tool for both new and experienced anglers looking to spice up their fishing techniques. 🔗Ready-to-Fish Carolina Rig Fishing Kithttps://preview.redd.it/9hvovj402d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=38be0babf9ba482364b1a7b403372325ee3b8c98 I've been fishing with the Carolina Ready Rig for a few weeks now and it's been a game changer. As a seasoned angler, I appreciate how effortlessly this rig eliminates the need for hunting around my tackle box for small components. Top Brass Tackle has really thought this through, from the precise brass weight to the no-fuss 10 mm glass bead. One aspect I particularly enjoy is how the design makes my fishing sessions much easier. No more struggling with bead placement or dealing with broken beads after a few casts. This rig is an excellent option for both novice and experienced anglers alike. Plus, the durability of the brass sinker and stainless steel wire leader makes it perfect for salt and freshwater fishing. The only small con was that initially, the shiny brass finish on the sinker changed color after a few weeks in saltwater. But overall, I've been really happy with this Carolina Ready Rig. It's made my fishing sessions more efficient and enjoyable, and I look forward to catching more fish with it. 🔗Complete Carolina Rigging Kit by Eagle Clawhttps://preview.redd.it/kee5hhg02d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f03c0a6d13e4aee65fb00560b61a0181b8eeb1c1 As an avid fisherman, I've tried a variety of rigging kits to snag the biggest catches. Eagle Claw's 52 Piece Carolina Rigging Kit is a game-changer. Its attention to detail and quality is clear from the moment you unpack the kit. From sliding sinkers that slip through even the thickest weeds to ball-bearing swivels, this Carolina rig kit delivers on its promises. My personal favorite - the fish-catching noise it produces - is truly remarkable. It's helped me snag more fish than I've ever caught before. That being said, the one area where it could be improved is the labeling of the sinkers by weight. Even though the variety of weights is great, it would be more helpful if they were marked clearly. Also, if you're in an area where lead sinkers are not allowed, this might not be the kit for you. Overall, Eagle Claw's Carolina Rigging Kit is a fantastic addition to any fishing gear collection. It's a go-to for catfish and bass enthusiasts alike. 🔗6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz - Efficient Bass Fishing Solutionhttps://preview.redd.it/mco5ezq02d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cc84a547060350752e78dc3c5f69f9aa0cd2b5aa As someone who has spent countless hours on the water, the 6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz has been a game-changer for me. After dealing with the frustrations of rigging my Carolina Rig and dealing with the constant break-offs, I decided to give this pre-rig a try. One of the biggest highlights for me has been the time-saving aspect. With the pre-rigged hook, I can spend more time casting and reeling in fish instead of tying knots and fiddling with excess weight. Not only does it save time, but it has significantly reduced the number of break-offs I've experienced, keeping my line intact and increasing my chances of landing a big one. The durability of this pre-rig is also top-notch. The flexible wire has allowed me to drag it through every type of structure without getting hung up, giving me the freedom to focus on the fish rather than worrying about losing my rig. Plus, the fact that it comes in three different sizes and two different metals (lead and tungsten) means there's an option for any fishing situation. Of course, nothing is perfect, and I did encounter a minor drawback when switching between lead and tungsten options. The switch required me to remove the weight and reattach it, which took a bit of extra time. However, this small inconvenience is easily outweighed by the benefits this pre-rig provides. Overall, I'd highly recommend the 6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz to anyone looking to save time, reduce break-offs, and increase their chances of catching bass. 🔗Carolina Ready Rig Hook for Sensitive Baitshttps://preview.redd.it/7x0j44612d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8fbb58fb470d0d4a59320dbaa55999d22c6ec674 In my experience, the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig has been a game-changer. I remember the first time I used it, it was a chilly morning and I was struggling to put together a Carolina rig, but these pre-assembled ones made my life so much easier. Each rig is made with brass, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers, which together create a loud and attention-grabbing presence in the water. The best part for me? No more fumbling with beads and weights in cold weather. Each rig comes already assembled and ready to use, saving me a considerable amount of time. Plus, they're built strong and sturdy, holding up well even in challenging fishing conditions. However, there was one downside I noticed. On a couple of occasions, the wires seemed to bend easily, causing some issues in the line. But overall, the pros outweighed the cons, and I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for an efficient and reliable Carolina rig solution. 🔗Quality Carolina Live Bait King Rig for Tournament Fishermenhttps://preview.redd.it/tbvz3ym12d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98019d2d98805ebd77a3d041090271937c8222e6 Using the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig has been a game-changer in my fishing adventure. The slow troll rig is perfect for tournament fishermen like myself, with its bronze hooks that are professionally snelled with 60 lb. camo coated wire. The live bait size 2/0 nose hook and the 4X Eagle Claw size 4 treble hooks have proved reliable and sturdy during my fishing trips. Model LBR has one treble hook and model DLBR has two treble hooks, both variations offering different options depending on your fishing needs. The leader is neatly finished off with a size 7 barrel swivel, ensuring smooth and stable action. This rig also comes with an optional ultra mylar duster, which adds an extra layer of attractiveness for the fish. While using the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig, I found some pros and cons in my experience. The pros were the reliable hooks, the versatility of having two different treble hook models, and the option to add the ultra mylar duster for additional attraction. However, the cons were the lack of information on the product specs and minimal user reviews. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig remains a trusty tool in my fishing arsenal. 🔗Complete Carolina Rig Kit for Ultimate Fishing Experiencehttps://preview.redd.it/ojctc8722d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=570dd0f400443a97d4d3378512ec7f2774ac31db When I first received the Crme Lure Carolina Rig Kit, I was impressed by its compact, organizer-like nature, designed to keep all the lures and rigging in one place. The variety of colors available in the lures made me excited to see how they'd perform in the water. On my first fishing trip with this kit, I encountered a rather small bass. Although it wasn't a monster catch, I managed to hook it using a Carolina rig from this kit. One downside I encountered was the difficulty in finding the appropriate rigging components. The instructions provided were quite detailed, but they seemed to be written for an audience with more experience in fishing. Nevertheless, I managed to work it out with a bit of trial and error. The lures themselves performed quite well, with different types of lures attracting diverse species of fish. However, they did have a tendency to get snagged on underwater debris, which was a bit of a setback. Despite the initial challenges, I found the Crme Lure Carolina Rig Kit to be a versatile and durable tool for improving my fishing skills. As a beginner, it was great to have a handy reference in the form of a comprehensive guide. Additionally, the rigging components were high-quality and seemed to withstand the test of time. In summary, the Carolina Rig Lure Kit is an excellent selection for novice or experienced fishermen who want to enhance their skills with a variety of rigging options. The kit offers great value with a plethora of lures and rigging components, and I'd definitely recommend it. Just remember to keep an eye out for potential rigging fumbles and stay patient when it comes to using instructions. 🔗Owner Rig N Hook - High-Quality Fishing Equipment for Your Adventureshttps://preview.redd.it/0jpq4oo22d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=02d5ffaad0253e6af824b814a1b70752deac0c9d I had the opportunity to try out Owner Rig N Hook while fishing for my daily catch. As an avid fisherman, I've used various hooks in the past, but this one stood out for its unique features and incredible performance. One of the most noticeable aspects of Owner Rig N Hook is its sharp and sturdy cutting point. It's designed to provide a strong and reliable hookset, ensuring that my catch does not escape. The black chrome finish not only adds a touch of elegance but also offers enhanced corrosion resistance, which is perfect for my trips to the lake. The short shank on these hooks is particularly useful when working with plastics that have a short but thick profile, such as spider grubs or creature baits. The wide gap and heavy wire make it an ideal choice for Texas RigN and Carolina RigN, as well as Split ShotN techniques. However, I did notice that these hooks tend to straighten more often than other hooks. While it's not a major issue, it's something to keep in mind when using them, especially for larger fish. Overall, Owner Rig N Hook has become a staple in my tackle box. It provides a reliable and efficient hookset, making my fishing experiences all the more enjoyable. The high-quality materials and design make it a worthwhile investment for any avid fisherman. 🔗Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig - Loudest 5/16 oz Black Hook Sethttps://preview.redd.it/xb541e132d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=46e56a8c5e2233f2fccd5886dcc565af3cc2f117 The Carolina Ready Rig is a game-changer in the world of fishing. This sturdy and easy-to-use rig is made with Top Brass's brass weights, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers, creating the loudest rig any fisherman has ever heard. The combination of these materials results in a perfect Carolina rig that can withstand even the toughest fishing conditions. One of the biggest highlights of this product is the time it saves. Gone are the days of digging out beads and weights, as the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig is already pre-rigged and ready to go. The rigs are simple to use and make attaching lures a breeze, saving valuable time on the water. However, the wire on these rigs can be delicate and may bend easily, causing some problems. Despite this minor issue, the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig is a top-quality product that is designed to last. The materials are of high quality and the pricing is reasonable, making these rigs accessible to all. Overall, the Carolina Ready Rig is an excellent choice for anyone looking to catch more fish with less hassle. 🔗Efficient Carolina Rig Weight for Fishing Successhttps://preview.redd.it/vtzhyud32d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=06466cfb19ff45ccb813a9c14a28df2a79d04c32 In my experience, the Strike King EZ-Rig Carolina Rig Sinker has been a game-changer in my fishing trips. The convenience of having everything pre-rigged has saved me a lot of valuable fishing time. The glass beads not only produce a rattling sound that attracts fish, but they also add a flashy appearance that helps to make a big impact. The stainless steel wire ensures that the rig will hold up even after multiple uses. The environmentally friendly brass weights are also a huge plus, as they add the right amount of weight without causing any harm to the environment. The rig is compact and easy to carry, making it a top choice for anyone looking for a quick and simple set-up. Overall, the Strike King Lures Carolina Rig Weight has been a lifesaver for me during my fishing adventures. 🔗Proven Carolina Rig Kit for Fishing Successhttps://preview.redd.it/vkl29eu32d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e603d8b1477d11c45fcb073e66a113288352a3ce I recently tried out Karl's Stash Carolina Rig Kit, and I must say, it was quite the experience. As someone who's always on the lookout for a good fishing setup, this kit caught my eye with its promise of a tried and true fish catching system. The first thing that struck me was the design of the rig itself. Its heavy power, coupled with a moderate fast action, provided me with an unexpected amount of precision and control. The line, which was perfect for a weight range of 14-20lb Fluorocarbon or Monofilament, held up incredibly well under the strain of my fishing escapades. However, there were a couple of aspects that I didn't quite gel with. For one, the brass weights seemed a bit outdated compared to the tungsten ones I've gotten used to. Another minor inconvenience was the large weights that sometimes bogged down in the sand, making retrieval a smidgen more difficult. Despite these minor setbacks, I found myself consistently landing good catches with the help of this rig. Its simple, yet effective design makes it a great choice for both beginners and experienced fishers alike. I highly recommend giving it a try if you're looking to spice up your fishing experience. After all, the proof of the pudding is in the catching, and this rig sure does catch! 🔗Easy-to-use Carolina Rig for Fishinghttps://preview.redd.it/1ucsza642d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=62fbf77823b2aa08c0d49e717f4630c7ae259a5b I've been using the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rigs for my fishing trips, and I must say, they've made my life so much easier. The brass weights, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers create a loud, fish-enticing rig that is ready to use right out of the box. One thing that stood out to me was the sturdiness of the rig. It's a well-made product that can handle the rough and tumble of a day on the water. I also appreciated the ease of use - it's a simple, straightforward rig that's perfect for those times when I don't want to spend a lot of time on prep work. That being said, there were a couple of downsides as well. Occasionally, the wire would bend easily, causing issues with the rig. And while the one bead not three thing was a minor inconvenience, it was nothing that couldn't be fixed with a quick trip to the hardware store or a little bit of DIY ingenuity. All in all, the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rigs are a solid choice for any angler looking to make their fishing trips a little easier. They're well-made, easy to use, and a great time-saver. 🔗Easy-Adjust Carolina Rig Hook - 8 Packhttps://preview.redd.it/bmtk1qm42d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=162f42597c9b1c4be84f4e657f959ac4ec8baff5 I recently started using the Carolina Keeper 8 pack and I must say it has greatly improved my fishing experience. What stands out in my experience is how easy and convenient it is to tie that one knot instead of the three that I used to need. It eliminates the swivel and simplifies the process of adjusting the leader length. The keeper even works well for different types of fish like striper, hybrid, trout, and all saltwater species. One of the pros of using this product is the ease of setting up the Carolina rig. It saves a lot of time and effort compared to using a swivel and tying knots. However, a minor con that I've encountered is that the keeper may slide down the line if you're using heavy weights, especially in heavier currents. Overall, the Carolina Keeper is an excellent product that has made the Carolina rig setup convenient and efficient. Despite the minor drawback, the pros definitely outweigh the cons, and I highly recommend it to any angler looking to improve their fishing game. Buyer's GuideWelcome to the buyer's guide section for Carolina Rig Hooks. In this guide, we will discuss the important features to consider when purchasing a Carolina Rig Hook, as well as general advice to help you make the best choice for your needs. Let's dive in and explore this exciting category of fishing tackle. https://preview.redd.it/v9hpgd082d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a0d0f981f7c801238e40ebdd5b8fc77734e7ff62 Features to Consider
Additional Considerations
https://preview.redd.it/6y7wnre82d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=623be99f98adc518139b876bd49e7c52414fe624 General Advice
FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/3x61u7s82d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ca4eca97a7ee4b48568c292ec0ddf39fa64bef1e What is a Carolina rig hook?A Carolina rig hook is a specific type of fishing hook designed for use with the Carolina rig, a widely popular fishing technique in the Southeastern United States. These hooks are typically made of strong, durable materials and are suitable for catching a variety of freshwater fish, such as bass, catfish, and sunfish.What makes a Carolina rig hook different from other fishing hooks?There are a few key differences between a Carolina rig hook and other fishing hooks: 1. They have a slightly different shape, typically featuring a straight body with two wide gaps between the shank and the eye. 2. Carolina rig hooks are designed to be fished with a heavy sinker attached to a leader, which allows the hook to sink quickly through the water column. 3. They can be used with live bait or artificial lures, making them versatile for various fishing scenarios. https://preview.redd.it/fgj539892d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cb1812ba6a34075f7164a85e09ded35585b83170 What materials are Carolina rig hooks made of?Carolina rig hooks are usually made from high-quality metal alloys, such as steel or tungsten, as these materials offer superior strength and durability. Some hooks may also incorporate nickel, titanium, or other coatings to improve their anti-corrosion properties.What are the benefits of using a Carolina rig hook?
How do I rig a Carolina rig hook?To rig a Carolina rig, follow these steps: 1. Thread the leader onto the rod or line, with the heavier end at the bottom. 2. Slide on a sinker, adjusting the weight according to the depth and current conditions. 3. Attach the Carolina rig hook to the leader, with the loop end facing upwards. 4. Add a swivel between the leader and the line to prevent line twist. 5. Tie on your bait or lure, ensuring it is secure and free to move naturally. 6. Cast your line and wait for a bite.Are Carolina rig hooks compatible with other fishing techniques?While Carolina rig hooks are specifically designed for use with the Carolina rig, they can also be used with other fishing techniques, such as the bottom bait rig, as long as the correct size and weight are chosen.What size and weight should I choose for my Carolina rig hook?The choice of hook size and weight will depend on the type of bait or lure you are using and the target fish species. As a general rule, smaller hooks are suitable for smaller baits and fish, while larger hooks are appropriate for larger baits and fish. When determining the weight, consider the depth and current conditions to ensure the hook sinks properly and is not too heavy or too light for the chosen bait or lure.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 12:21 LastWeekInCollapse Last Week in Collapse: May 12-18, 2024
Record temperatures, record migration, record emissions, record displacement, record PFAS……start building an ark.
Last Week in Collapse: May 12-18, 2024
This is Last Week in Collapse, a weekly newsletter compiling some of the most important, timely, useful, soul-crushing, ironic, stunning, exhausting, or otherwise must-see/can’t-look-away moments in Collapse.
This is the 125th newsletter! You can find the May 5-11 edition here if you missed it last week. You can also receive these posts (with images) every Sunday in your email inbox with Substack.
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Flash flooding in northern Afghanistan killed 300+ people and destroyed 1,000+ homes. Hundreds of thousands of others have been affected. Last month, similar floods in the region killed 70+. Four died in Texas storms last week as well.
Venezuela is suffering from record wildfires, which so far this year have burned about 5M acres—almost the size of Sardinia. Some experts think indigenous people started the blaze as an attempt at forest clearance, which quickly got out of hand. “Institutional failures” compounded the disaster when the ailing government responded with an inadequate number of poorly equipped firefighters. Another study from last week examined the impact of wildfires on soil health.
Flooding and “cold lava” killed 50+ in Indonesia, injuring dozens and displacing several thousand. Cold lava is a mixture of water and rocks tumbling down the side of a volcano. Meanwhile, an actual volcano erupted in Indonesia, sending smoke & ash 5000m high; further eruptions are possible soon.
The Swiss Re Institute published a 37-page report last week about natural disasters in 2023—and how much damage, in USD, they caused. The largest catastrophe was the February 7.8 earthquake in Türkiye & Syria, which killed 59,000+ people and caused $163B+ in damage. The report is full of interesting graphics & data about natural disasters.
France is growing more concerned about a dam on Lake Geneva, controlled exclusively by Switzerland. The Rhône River, which begins in Switzerland and flows south through France, is shrinking in summers as climate change melts Switzerland’s remaining glaciers.
The Tonlé San River has been dammed in Vietnam, lowering the level in Cambodia and sometimes drying the river downstream entirely. Meanwhile, China’s lychee harvest is getting blasted by rain, impacting the world’s largest source of lychee. And, once again, Saudi Arabia is suffering flooding in its inland regions. 7 dead in historic flooding in Iran.
The eminent climate scientist James Hansen posted that, since “human-made aerosols and their cooling effect are in decline,” the cooling effect of La Niña will be counterbalanced by these rising temperatures. He also identifies a “large anomaly of increased absorbed solar radiation at midlatitudes in the Northern Hemisphere” responsible for rising temperatures there. CO2 levels are rising faster today than they have at any point in the previous 50,000 years…and a study of millennia-old trees determined last summer was the hottest worldwide in 2,000+ years…
Record nighttime May temperatures were tied in the Philippines and Vietnam. A couple Indonesian cities broke records for May temperatures. And a number of southern African states saw more records drop. And Toronto saw a record tied for the number of days reaching 14 °C (57 °F). A heat wave has returned to Bangladesh. Flooding in Cali (pop: 2.9M), Colombia.
The University of Washington was ordered to stop a geoengineering project that scientists sere conducting from the deck of a decommissioned aircraft carrier. The experiment ejected aerosolized saltwater in an attempt to reflect solar radiation. A comparative study in Nature Communications of a number of carbon pricing found that, yes, carbon pricing does work to reduce the total CO2 emitted.
It’s that time of the year again. Wildfires in Canada grow, some of which are moving towards the tar sands—forcing thousands to evacuate. 39 of the total nation’s blazes are “out of control,” resulting in air quality alerts in the United States. Meanwhile, across the Caribbean, water shortages have become the new normal, and residents (and tourists) are finding their old consumption habits hard to change. St. Lucia has declared a water emergency. In Myanmar, water shortages worsen, particularly as related to the spiraling conflict.
At least ⅛ of Europeans live in a place at risk of extreme flooding—so says a 175-page report from the European Environment Agency posted on Wednesday. The number of people living in flood-risk coastal areas in the EU & UK is expected to jump 24% by 2050. The graphics-packed report also considers how flooding will impact healthcare facilities, mental health, wastewater treatment plants, the spread of disease, cyanobacteria, permafrost thaw, and much else.
A 74-page working paper which is not yet peer-reviewed claims that earlier estimates for how much GDP would be impacted by another 1 °C temperature rise is way less than it would be in actuality. The paper claims the real cost (in USD) is about 6x greater. They claim “global temperature has much more pronounced impacts on economic activity than local temperature” and that extreme weather is mostly behind the projected decline in productivity.
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Epidemiologists are worried about how climate change in Africa may extend the life of disease-bearers like ticks and mosquitoes. Other epidemiologists are worried about how cattle may become a permanent reservoir for H5N1. Growing traced of bird flu have been found in wastewater testing in the U.S., but investigators think it may be runoff from infected dairy farms.
Obesity, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure rates today globally are 50% higher than in 2000—though researchers claim that air pollution still poses a larger threat. Of a study participants in Hawai’i, 75% had respiratory issues, probably from the Maui wildfires last year.
The 2024 World Migration Report is out, and its 384 pages are not as apocalyptic as one might think. However, internally displaced people are at their all-time highest. India, Mexico, Russia, China, and Syria lead the world in emigrants; another document contains the definitions for who exactly constitutes a migrant. Unfortunately much of the data relied upon ends in 2022. Data from this year, not included in the above report, indicates a 40% jump in traffic through the Darien Gap compared to the same time period in 2023.
Some analysts believe “Peak China” may be over, signaling a period of economic tapering-off, as well as a growing militancy. Increasing U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods are continuing to separate the two economies. The Netherlands finally formed a provisional government, though its proposed immigration & farming policies have set it at odds with the EU.
The Federal Reserve, the U.S. central bank, released a 46-page report on potential climate risks to the banking system’s resilience. As far as I understood, most of the risk lies in extreme weather events and the risk to insurance agencies.
Part of southeast England experienced an outbreak of Cryptosporidium, a diarrhea & vomiting illness, highly contagious, which can last weeks. At least 22 cases have been reported. Meanwhile, the CDC is issuing warnings about the more dangerous strain of monkeypox circulating in the DRC, although cases are currently limited to Africa.
North Carolina’s Senate voted to ban mask-wearing last week, under the reasoning that it would make police identification of protestors difficult. An fMRI study found lasting neurological changes in COVID survivors; they “had significantly higher cognitive complaints of mental fatigue and cognitive failure….even two years after recovering.” Experts say a summer rise in COVID cases is coming to the United States.
A study on The Canadian/American Great Lakes found that PFAS levels are increasing in the 3 largest lakes (Superior, Huron, and Michigan), while decreasing in the other two (Erie, Ontario). The study also found that precipitation is the primary means by which the Lakes are accumulating PFAS, since the chemicals are small & stable enough to move through the water cycle. Meanwhile, in England’s Lake District, a telecom failure resulted in raw sewage being pumped into England’s largest and most famous lake, Windermere, on-and-off for 10 hours; and a major British water CEO took a $4M USD pay package last year. And a look into the Chicago River’s health found that microplastics & trash are endangering health & biodiversity.
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An assassination attempt by a lone wolf on Slovakia’s PM left him in critical condition, but likely to survive. 11 civilians were slain by cartel fighters in a few battles in Mexico. Violence continues to spiral out of control in Goma, DRC.
In Haiti, everything worsens indefinitely. Guns have reportedly entered from Florida, a phenomenon which officials call an “iron river.” Police have been put on the defensive against the growing might of the gang warlords.
A brawl broke out in Taiwan’s parliament. An Iranian plot was allegedly foiled to smuggle weapons into Jordan to destabilize the pro-U.S. regime.
Dozens more died in Sudan from escalating violence around Darfur. People are warning about “a disaster on top of a disaster” and the possibility of Sudan splitting apart. Others have called it “hell on earth” as 1,000+ refugees cross the Chad border every day. Disease and malnutrition are growing, while famine encroaches upon 9M helpless victims of the conflict—but the world’s attention is elsewhere.
The U.S. Army Engineers completed constructing the pier in Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid. Some 600,000 Gazans have been displaced from Rafah already, and fighting has escalated against Hamas militants in northern Gaza.
Taliban forces skirmished with Pakistani soldiers for about 90 minutes last week. Taliban attacks in Pakistan, and counterattacks have resulted in a kind of ambient disruption for the rocky border zone.
Violent protests—and counteroperations—are continuing in New Caledonia (pop: 270,000), a Pacific island part of overseas France. The riots, which have killed 6 people so far, began after metropolitan France proposed a plan to expand voting rights beyond indigenous residents. A state of emergency has been declared amid worries about a spiral of violence taking hold.
As the Sahel dries out, experts are concerned about the links to rising terrorism in the region. The Sahel accounts for over 40% of global terrorism deaths—according to the analysts’ understanding of “terrorism.” Mali in particular has reportedly become home to 41 new, different non-state armed groups (NSAGs) since 2007. A contested election in Chad resulted in the consolidation of theinterim leader’s power.
Russia made several gains in the suburbs of Kharkiv, seizing several settlements which some analysts doubt they will hold. Putin claims they aren’t really trying to take Kharkiv anyway… Russia also made small progress in the Donbas—although they suffered their largest one-day casualties since the start of the war. The U.S. allocated another $2B to hasten the delivery of weapons to the front lines. The next weeks will be crucial on the front. Switzerland has invited 160+ nations to send delegates to a peace summit intended to design a path to making peace in this War.
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Select comments/threads from the subreddit last week suggest:
-Brazil’s flooding was really, really bad, judging from this post and its accompanying images. Across just one of Brazil’s 26 states, 600,000+ people have been made homeless, 100+ have died, and the storm season isn’t over yet. Some of the flooding isn’t expected to subside for another month.
-How specifically might climate change make humanity extinct? This thread crowdsources a number of plausible ways, from ordinary famines to nuclear war and even a massive deoxygenation process. I tend to think it will be a consequence of an eventual nuclear exchange, followed by extended famine and disease.
Got any feedback, questions, comments, complaints, upvotes, doom prophets to follow, hugelkultur guides, directions to off-grid bunkers, ark schematics, etc.? Check out the Last Week in Collapse SubStack if you don’t want to check collapse every Sunday, you can receive this newsletter sent to your (or someone else’s) email inbox every weekend. What did I forget this week?
submitted by LastWeekInCollapse to collapse [link] [comments]
Last Week in Collapse: May 12-18, 2024
This is Last Week in Collapse, a weekly newsletter compiling some of the most important, timely, useful, soul-crushing, ironic, stunning, exhausting, or otherwise must-see/can’t-look-away moments in Collapse.
This is the 125th newsletter! You can find the May 5-11 edition here if you missed it last week. You can also receive these posts (with images) every Sunday in your email inbox with Substack.
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Flash flooding in northern Afghanistan killed 300+ people and destroyed 1,000+ homes. Hundreds of thousands of others have been affected. Last month, similar floods in the region killed 70+. Four died in Texas storms last week as well.
Venezuela is suffering from record wildfires, which so far this year have burned about 5M acres—almost the size of Sardinia. Some experts think indigenous people started the blaze as an attempt at forest clearance, which quickly got out of hand. “Institutional failures” compounded the disaster when the ailing government responded with an inadequate number of poorly equipped firefighters. Another study from last week examined the impact of wildfires on soil health.
Flooding and “cold lava” killed 50+ in Indonesia, injuring dozens and displacing several thousand. Cold lava is a mixture of water and rocks tumbling down the side of a volcano. Meanwhile, an actual volcano erupted in Indonesia, sending smoke & ash 5000m high; further eruptions are possible soon.
The Swiss Re Institute published a 37-page report last week about natural disasters in 2023—and how much damage, in USD, they caused. The largest catastrophe was the February 7.8 earthquake in Türkiye & Syria, which killed 59,000+ people and caused $163B+ in damage. The report is full of interesting graphics & data about natural disasters.
“Last year, economic losses from natural catastrophes reached USD 280 billion, meaning that 62% of the global losses were uninsured….the insured losses surpassed USD 100 billion for the fourth consecutive year….annual insured losses will grow by 5–7% over the long term…today’s insured losses could double in 10 years….There were 142 insured-loss inducing catastrophes in 2023, a new record. Most were of medium severity, which we define as events resulting in losses of USD 1–5 billion….Over the last 30 years, we estimate that natural catastrophe insured losses have grown by 3 percentage points more annually than the global economy (in inflation adjusted terms)...”Flooding and heat waves are impacting Brazil’s oranges, responsible for about 70% of the world’s supply. One food analysts declared that the “era of cheap food is over”—in the UK, at least. That may be one reason why UK residents took record food bank packages last year. Madagascar is struggling to adapt to a future with far less rainfall.
France is growing more concerned about a dam on Lake Geneva, controlled exclusively by Switzerland. The Rhône River, which begins in Switzerland and flows south through France, is shrinking in summers as climate change melts Switzerland’s remaining glaciers.
The Tonlé San River has been dammed in Vietnam, lowering the level in Cambodia and sometimes drying the river downstream entirely. Meanwhile, China’s lychee harvest is getting blasted by rain, impacting the world’s largest source of lychee. And, once again, Saudi Arabia is suffering flooding in its inland regions. 7 dead in historic flooding in Iran.
The eminent climate scientist James Hansen posted that, since “human-made aerosols and their cooling effect are in decline,” the cooling effect of La Niña will be counterbalanced by these rising temperatures. He also identifies a “large anomaly of increased absorbed solar radiation at midlatitudes in the Northern Hemisphere” responsible for rising temperatures there. CO2 levels are rising faster today than they have at any point in the previous 50,000 years…and a study of millennia-old trees determined last summer was the hottest worldwide in 2,000+ years…
Record nighttime May temperatures were tied in the Philippines and Vietnam. A couple Indonesian cities broke records for May temperatures. And a number of southern African states saw more records drop. And Toronto saw a record tied for the number of days reaching 14 °C (57 °F). A heat wave has returned to Bangladesh. Flooding in Cali (pop: 2.9M), Colombia.
The University of Washington was ordered to stop a geoengineering project that scientists sere conducting from the deck of a decommissioned aircraft carrier. The experiment ejected aerosolized saltwater in an attempt to reflect solar radiation. A comparative study in Nature Communications of a number of carbon pricing found that, yes, carbon pricing does work to reduce the total CO2 emitted.
It’s that time of the year again. Wildfires in Canada grow, some of which are moving towards the tar sands—forcing thousands to evacuate. 39 of the total nation’s blazes are “out of control,” resulting in air quality alerts in the United States. Meanwhile, across the Caribbean, water shortages have become the new normal, and residents (and tourists) are finding their old consumption habits hard to change. St. Lucia has declared a water emergency. In Myanmar, water shortages worsen, particularly as related to the spiraling conflict.
At least ⅛ of Europeans live in a place at risk of extreme flooding—so says a 175-page report from the European Environment Agency posted on Wednesday. The number of people living in flood-risk coastal areas in the EU & UK is expected to jump 24% by 2050. The graphics-packed report also considers how flooding will impact healthcare facilities, mental health, wastewater treatment plants, the spread of disease, cyanobacteria, permafrost thaw, and much else.
“Europe has seen devastating floods following record rainfall, droughts of magnitudes not experienced in hundreds of years, continuing sea level rise, and increasing lake and sea temperatures….permanent water stress already affects 30% of people in southern Europe….since 2018, more than half of Europe has been impacted by extreme drought conditions….Climate change is expected to increase mercury bioaccumulation in the marine food chain due to rising ocean temperatures, ocean acidification and permafrost thawing….Depression, anxiety and PTSD may persist for years after a flooding event….Under the changing climate, northern Europe is becoming wetter in general, but drier in summer. Southern Europe is becoming drier, especially in winter. For central-eastern and western Europe, the trend is less clear…” -selections from the reportMilan suffered flooding last week, the worst May flooding in 170 years. Early spring in the UK has disrupted migratory bird species and their usual patterns.
A 74-page working paper which is not yet peer-reviewed claims that earlier estimates for how much GDP would be impacted by another 1 °C temperature rise is way less than it would be in actuality. The paper claims the real cost (in USD) is about 6x greater. They claim “global temperature has much more pronounced impacts on economic activity than local temperature” and that extreme weather is mostly behind the projected decline in productivity.
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Epidemiologists are worried about how climate change in Africa may extend the life of disease-bearers like ticks and mosquitoes. Other epidemiologists are worried about how cattle may become a permanent reservoir for H5N1. Growing traced of bird flu have been found in wastewater testing in the U.S., but investigators think it may be runoff from infected dairy farms.
Obesity, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure rates today globally are 50% higher than in 2000—though researchers claim that air pollution still poses a larger threat. Of a study participants in Hawai’i, 75% had respiratory issues, probably from the Maui wildfires last year.
The 2024 World Migration Report is out, and its 384 pages are not as apocalyptic as one might think. However, internally displaced people are at their all-time highest. India, Mexico, Russia, China, and Syria lead the world in emigrants; another document contains the definitions for who exactly constitutes a migrant. Unfortunately much of the data relied upon ends in 2022. Data from this year, not included in the above report, indicates a 40% jump in traffic through the Darien Gap compared to the same time period in 2023.
“The last two years saw major migration and displacement events that have caused great hardship and trauma, as well as loss of life….There have also been large-scale displacements triggered by climate- and weather-related disasters in many parts of the world in 2022 and 2023, including in Pakistan, the Philippines, China, India, Bangladesh, Brazil and Colombia….disinformation tactics are increasingly being used by nefarious actors with negative impacts on public, political and social media discourse on migration….Forced displacement is the highest on record in the modern era…overconsumption and overproduction linked to unsustainable economic growth, resource depletion and biodiversity collapse, as well as ongoing climate change (including global heating) are continuing to grip the world….the risk of further conflict has not been higher in decades, as military spending reached a new record high of USD 2,240 billion in 2022…” -excerpts from the introductionAnother report, focusing on internal displacement, came out last week; its 69 pages show a cross-section of about 47M people displaced by natural disasters (56%) or armed conflict (44%). Most of the disasters were storms & flooding, and most of the conflicts were civil wars of some form. This report also provides detailed region-by-region analyses—with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 46% of global IDPs.
“Conflict and violence triggered 13.5 million movements, the highest figure for the past 15 years….Disasters and conflict are presented as different triggers, but their impacts can overlap, often leading to repeated and/ or protracted displacement….Drought triggered 331,000 displacements in Somalia….Floods triggered 550,000 displacements in Ethiopia….Conflict and violence triggered 3.8 million displacements in DRC in 2023, a slight fall from the record four million in 2022, but still the second-highest figure globally after Sudan….nearly two-thirds of the internal displacements recorded in 2023 originated from Khartoum state. More than 39 per cent of the state's inhabitants were forced to flee, leaving entire neighbourhoods empty….Criminal and communal violence triggered nearly three-quarters of Nigeria's 291,000 conflict displacements….” -selections from the spotlight on sub-Saharan AfricaExperts are concerned about the mental health impacts that climate change has on our minds. Hotter temperatures reportedly increase depression & aggression. Wildfires and storms can cause PTSD. Workers feel stress and desperation as their usual industries are impacted. And air pollution influences ordinary brain processes in many ways.
Some analysts believe “Peak China” may be over, signaling a period of economic tapering-off, as well as a growing militancy. Increasing U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods are continuing to separate the two economies. The Netherlands finally formed a provisional government, though its proposed immigration & farming policies have set it at odds with the EU.
The Federal Reserve, the U.S. central bank, released a 46-page report on potential climate risks to the banking system’s resilience. As far as I understood, most of the risk lies in extreme weather events and the risk to insurance agencies.
Part of southeast England experienced an outbreak of Cryptosporidium, a diarrhea & vomiting illness, highly contagious, which can last weeks. At least 22 cases have been reported. Meanwhile, the CDC is issuing warnings about the more dangerous strain of m
North Carolina’s Senate voted to ban mask-wearing last week, under the reasoning that it would make police identification of protestors difficult. An fMRI study found lasting neurological changes in COVID survivors; they “had significantly higher cognitive complaints of mental fatigue and cognitive failure….even two years after recovering.” Experts say a summer rise in COVID cases is coming to the United States.
A study on The Canadian/American Great Lakes found that PFAS levels are increasing in the 3 largest lakes (Superior, Huron, and Michigan), while decreasing in the other two (Erie, Ontario). The study also found that precipitation is the primary means by which the Lakes are accumulating PFAS, since the chemicals are small & stable enough to move through the water cycle. Meanwhile, in England’s Lake District, a telecom failure resulted in raw sewage being pumped into England’s largest and most famous lake, Windermere, on-and-off for 10 hours; and a major British water CEO took a $4M USD pay package last year. And a look into the Chicago River’s health found that microplastics & trash are endangering health & biodiversity.
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An assassination attempt by a lone wolf on Slovakia’s PM left him in critical condition, but likely to survive. 11 civilians were slain by cartel fighters in a few battles in Mexico. Violence continues to spiral out of control in Goma, DRC.
In Haiti, everything worsens indefinitely. Guns have reportedly entered from Florida, a phenomenon which officials call an “iron river.” Police have been put on the defensive against the growing might of the gang warlords.
A brawl broke out in Taiwan’s parliament. An Iranian plot was allegedly foiled to smuggle weapons into Jordan to destabilize the pro-U.S. regime.
Dozens more died in Sudan from escalating violence around Darfur. People are warning about “a disaster on top of a disaster” and the possibility of Sudan splitting apart. Others have called it “hell on earth” as 1,000+ refugees cross the Chad border every day. Disease and malnutrition are growing, while famine encroaches upon 9M helpless victims of the conflict—but the world’s attention is elsewhere.
The U.S. Army Engineers completed constructing the pier in Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid. Some 600,000 Gazans have been displaced from Rafah already, and fighting has escalated against Hamas militants in northern Gaza.
Taliban forces skirmished with Pakistani soldiers for about 90 minutes last week. Taliban attacks in Pakistan, and counterattacks have resulted in a kind of ambient disruption for the rocky border zone.
Violent protests—and counteroperations—are continuing in New Caledonia (pop: 270,000), a Pacific island part of overseas France. The riots, which have killed 6 people so far, began after metropolitan France proposed a plan to expand voting rights beyond indigenous residents. A state of emergency has been declared amid worries about a spiral of violence taking hold.
As the Sahel dries out, experts are concerned about the links to rising terrorism in the region. The Sahel accounts for over 40% of global terrorism deaths—according to the analysts’ understanding of “terrorism.” Mali in particular has reportedly become home to 41 new, different non-state armed groups (NSAGs) since 2007. A contested election in Chad resulted in the consolidation of the
“If governments are continually unable to solve regional issues, the people will be at the whim of any terror group that has a basic organization. It serves these groups’ interests to promote insecurity where they can and create security where they want. A “hearts and minds” campaign in the Sahel could lead to long-term and locally supported insurgencies in a land that is currently rife with civil strife.” -from the articleSome wargamers concluded that a Trump victory in 2020 would spell the end of NATO, or at least the end of its utility. Vladimir Putin replaced his minister of defense with a top economic advisor, just before going to Beijing to reaffirm their friendship with “no limits.” Some say Putin is planning on a forever war. Some say NATO is gearing up for one, too.
Russia made several gains in the suburbs of Kharkiv, seizing several settlements which some analysts doubt they will hold. Putin claims they aren’t really trying to take Kharkiv anyway… Russia also made small progress in the Donbas—although they suffered their largest one-day casualties since the start of the war. The U.S. allocated another $2B to hasten the delivery of weapons to the front lines. The next weeks will be crucial on the front. Switzerland has invited 160+ nations to send delegates to a peace summit intended to design a path to making peace in this War.
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Select comments/threads from the subreddit last week suggest:
-Brazil’s flooding was really, really bad, judging from this post and its accompanying images. Across just one of Brazil’s 26 states, 600,000+ people have been made homeless, 100+ have died, and the storm season isn’t over yet. Some of the flooding isn’t expected to subside for another month.
-How specifically might climate change make humanity extinct? This thread crowdsources a number of plausible ways, from ordinary famines to nuclear war and even a massive deoxygenation process. I tend to think it will be a consequence of an eventual nuclear exchange, followed by extended famine and disease.
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2024.05.19 10:58 jenajiejing The Secret of Human Bodies – Examples Proving the Existence of the Greatest Creator
Xue Feng Though the modern medicine has limited knowledge of human bodies, what we have known is enough for us to admire the excellent human body structure and functions. Each system and organ in the human body is designed by the Greatest Creator. Even those trivial body parts have great functions. For example, there are several types of hairs on human bodies with distinct forms and functions. The head hair is designed to protect and beautify the head. It can grow long. According to the Bible, “But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.” The eyebrows can divert sweat and rain, preventing them into the eyes. That’s why they are lined above the two eyes. Eyelashes can prevent the dust and other things from entering the eyes. That’s why they are lined on the sides of the eyelids. Also they stand forward in a special curve because it wouldn’t hinder the eyesight or pierce into the eyes when closing the eyes. If the eyebrows and eyelashes are too long, they will hinder the eyesight. That’s why they wouldn’t grow as long as the hair or beards. The nasal hairs can filter the inhaled air. That’s why they grow inside the nostril and stand sideways and outwards. If they stand inwards, the other things will find it easy to come into the nostrils and difficult to go out. The armpit hairs can prevent the partial friction and help the sweat evaporate. Without the armpit hairs, we have to raise our arms. Otherwise the skin under the arm will become inflamed because of the friction and moist. Required by the function, the armpit hairs cannot grow as long as the head hairs, or as short as the eyebrows. Besides, they are soft and curving. If they are rigid and coarse, they will hurt the skin. And cilia grow on the intestinal epithelium. The cilia grow downward and vibrate together. The vibrating waves move downward from upward to help move down the intestinal contents. Cilia also grow on the airway and bronchus epithelium. However, they grow and vibrate in the opposite direction as those on the intestinal epithelium. Only in this way can they move the sputum upward to the throat and spit them. If they grow downward, the airway and bronchus would get stuck by the sputum and the humans would die from it. Now I wish to take two simple reflections of human bodies as an example. When foreign matters enter the nostrils or airways, they will arouse two protective reflections, sneeze or cough, which is designed to repel the foreign matters. But due to different situation, these two reflections differ in their approaches. The foreign matters in the nostrils are not urgent so the sneeze reflection can be prepared in a composed way. First, inhale slowly; open the mouth, and the soft place move upward to block the nostril. Then breathe in enough air through the mouth, and the pleural body contracts sharply to emit the air in the lungs quickly. When the emitting reaches its peak, the tongue rises abruptly to block the mouth to repel the air to go out swiftly through the nostrils. In this way the foreign matters in the nostrils are driven out. However, if the foreign matters enter the airway, it is an emergent situation. If the foreign matters are not driven out timely, the life will be put at risk. The inhaling is strictly forbidden because it will make the foreign matters go deeper and cause suffocation. So the cough doesn’t include the inhaling. Instead, the glottis closes immediately. At the same time, the pleural body contracts suddenly and adds the lung air pressure extremely. When the pressure is at its strongest point, the glottis opens suddenly and the lung air sends out explosively, compelling the foreign matters in the airway to the throat via the glottis. At this time, the soft place rises to block the nostrils. The foreign matters are spit out through the mouth. If the tongue and the soft place perform the same way as in the sneeze, the foreign matters emitted out of the airway will enter the nostrils, causing another trouble. In these two reflections, the body parts must cooperate closely. Any failure in the coordination will lead to the failure of the reflection, causing serious consequences. So these activities are not done freely. Instead, they are done as required by their functions and set procedures. These procedures are not learnt or practices. The program has been rooted in our brain nerve structure (nerve nucleus) when we are born. Otherwise, the babies will not survive. The advanced computer science has made it possible to simulate these activities. However, the simulation requires 3 conditions: 1. Device simulating the inhale and exhaling of human mouth, nose, throat, pleural and the sensing device; 2. The central control equipment simulating nerves and body system (compute, input and output devices). The above two devices are hardware. And software is also needed, namely (3). A program composed in strict compliance with the requirements to control the performance and procedure of each link, and arrange them in perfect coordination. All the three conditions are imperative. Otherwise the reflections can’t be realized. The program itself is not a substance structure. Instead, it is a smart use and spiritual result. There will be no such a thing as the program without the smart use. So we have to ask, the program is composed by the humans and stored in the computer, how about the control program in the human brain. Is it also composed by someone and stored in the human brain? Sneeze and cough are the simplest examples. There are numerous automatically controlled physical, bio-chemical and pathological human body activities, which are even more sophisticated than reflections of cough. Even today, some of them remain mysteries to us. So how are these sophisticated control programs composed? And where do they come from? Now let’s have a look at the sensory organs on human bodies. Why do we have two ears? The reason is that one ear is not able to identify the direction. With the ears lying on two sides of the head, the sound reaches the ears in sequence of time. Based on the slight receiving time difference, the brain can judge where the sound comes from. The auricle is the most outward component of the ear. It can introduce the sound into the external auditory canal. Within the auricle there is a thin layer of cartilage helping to retain the form of auricle, giving it wonderful elasticity and protecting it from the clashes. Without the cartilage, the auricle is just two useless pieces of skin hanging on the head side. If the thin bone is inside the auricle, it will break easily even if when you are sleeping on your side, damaging the auricle. There is fuzz on the outer segment of the external auditory canal preventing the sand and dust. The inner segment secretes cerumen to prevent insects. When foreign matters enter the external auditory canal, it will trigger head shaking, instead of sneeze or cough, to get the matters out. Because the external auditory canal is a blind passage, it is impossible to repel the foreign matters with air. Why don’t the foreign matters in the nostrils arouse the head-shaking reflection to repel them? That’s because the nostrils of humans almost lie in the middle of the head. The shaking is not able to produce enough centrifugal force. Besides, the human nostrils face downward and it is improper to repel the foreign matters by shaking the head. The sound is produced by the mechanical vibration of objects and is transmitted by the air fluctuation, or the sound waves. The human ears are actually working like a precise mechanical vibration monitor. In the inner ear there are a number of keyboards with different sizes, producing nerve impulses produced by echoing with corresponding frequencies. The brain, in accordance with the features of these impulses, identifies the strength, tunes and timbre of the sounds. We must note though there are many sensory organs in human bodies, only the inner ear is protected by the most solid and firm bones. In fact, it lies in the cave part of the temporal bone. Of all the sensory organs, only the ears monitor the mechanical vibration, which needs a relatively fixed position. Otherwise, it is not able to monitor the sound. If the inner ear lies in the soft tissues, when the sound wave arrives, the inner ear will vibrate with it. Thus it can hear nothing. Now the inner ear lies in the firm bone and it can’t sense the air vibration. So it is imperative to reduce the density waves to the mechanical vibrations before sending them to the inner ear. And there is such a reduction device at the middle bottom of the external auditory canal, which is called the eardrum. The eardrum has enough space to receive the air pressure. It is thin enough to vibrate when the sound wave arrives. Meanwhile, the eardrum is strong enough to push the transmission device. The long handle of the middle ear cartilage is attached to its inner side, the tensile force of which makes the eardrum sink inside slightly to maintain certain tension. This allows the eardrum to accurately reduce the arriving sound waves into the mechanical vibrations. No matter what the temperature is, the vibration function is not impacted. After the sound waves are reduced into the mechanical vibration, some rigid objects are needed to transmit the vibration to the inner ear. Of all body tissues, the most rigid objects are the bones. However, the bones are heavy in general and covered by the soft tissues, which are not suitable for the audio vibration. However, in the tympanic cavity between the eardrum and the inner ear, there are three unique tiny bones with delicate forms measured in millimeters. They are almost completely exposed to the air in the tympanic cavity. These three tiny bones are connected by ligament and form a transmission chain in curve with excellent audio vibration function, able to transmit accurately the vibration of the eardrum to the inner ear. The transmission device can properly multiply the weak vibration and reduce the strong sound wave. All of these structures are the super designs required by the acoustics. There are even smarter designs in the hearing organ. For example, to make the eardrum vibrate freely following the arriving sound waves, the two sides of the eardrums must be exposed to the air. As a result, there is a tympanic cavity full of air in the middle ear. If the cavity is filled by liquids, just as other cavities are, the eardrum is not able to vibrate because the liquids can’t contract. Besides, the cavity does not only need to be filled with air, but also needs to be connected to the outside world with a proper passage, to balance the static air pressure in the cavity with the outside air pressure. Otherwise, the air in the cavity will gradually be absorbed, causing the eardrum to sink excessively or damaging it. When the outside air pressure changes, (such as in mountain climbing, diving, the airplane takeoff or climate change), it will arouse uncomfortable feelings or lead to hearing malfunction. But the middle ear can’t be opened to the outside world directly, just like the external auditory canal or nostrils can. The reason is that the direct exposure will make the arriving waving sound reach the two sides of the eardrums at the same time via the external auditory canal and middle ear passage, counteracting the sound pressure. Thus the eardrums will not vibrate at all, unable to produce the hearing. So it is a difficult problem to connect the middle ear and the outside world. However, the human body, with a smart design, solves this problem. The middle ear is opened at the two sides in the upper rear of the pharynx via a half-opened passage (the so-called auditory tube). The auditory tube is locked in common times and only opened temporarily when taking the swallowing actions, balancing the air pressure in the middle ear shortly. After the swallowing action is over, the auditory tube is locked again. Apart from eating, human body would regularly take swallowing action unconsciously, even when he or she is sleeping. Thus the air pressure in the middle ear can be adjusted from time to time and avoid the hearing from being hindered. Besides, when swallowing, the swallowing segment and the soft palate will definitely rise, blocking the mouth and nostrils against the outside world. So on the moment when the ear and throat are opened shortly, though the air in the throat can enter the middle ear, the sound waves from the outside world are blocked against the middle ear. As a result, the hearing will not be interfered and can receive the outside sound and voice. Only the throat in the body can meet the special demand of the hearing organs. The throat is originally designed as part of the digestion and breathing system, it does not belong to sensory system. However, it can cooperate so smartly with the hearing organs. We have to admire the extremely delicate body-wise design. The vestibule in the inner ear controls the balance of the body. In the vestibule there are 3 semicircular canals. When the body loses balance, the mutually-vertical semicircular canals produce the balance impulse, which triggers the corresponding reflection via the balance center in the medulla brain. Why are there 3 semicircular canals instead of 2 or 4? And why are they mutually vertical? The reason is apparent. Humans live in the 3-dimensional space. There are 3 mutually-vertical movement directions, namely, front and rear, left and right, upward and downward. So the 3 mutually-vertical semicircular canals can monitor the movements. The number less than 3 or more than 3 would be insufficient or redundant. We can see the delicate and smart structure and function, and the supreme wisdom in them. They can’t be the accidental results. As the most important perception of human bodies, vision provides more information than that provided by all other perceptions. The vision is the perception of image and space and the visual organs must have the most precise and accurate structure completely different from other sensory organs. As a result, in the perspective of the embryo-genesis or neuro-anatomy, the main structure of the eyes is not just the common receptor. Instead, it is part of the cerebral cortex. The so-called optic nerves are completely different from other cerebrospinal nerves. In essence, the optic nerves are inner structure in the brain, transmitting the most sophisticated visual information. The eyes function like a precise camera. The retina composed of the photoreceptor cells is just like the films. The crystal, iris and the cornea works like the lens, diaphragm and the filter. However, the precision and automatic adjustment of the eyes is no match of any high-quality cameras. For example, the lens in modern cameras is made of special glass or hard plastics with fixed focal distance. When taking pictures for the landscapes with different distances, the lens position must be adjusted. Otherwise, the image will not be produced on the films. But this is an awkward approach. Imagine when the eyes are watching landscapes with different distances, the eyeballs have to protrude or recess alternatively, which looks ugly or damages the health and function of the eyes. However, the crystal in the eyes are transparent and elastic colloid, which can adjust automatically the focal distance in accordance with the distance of the objects to make sure all the objects can be imaged on the retina, without changing the position of the crystal. Such automatic adjustment function can’t be fulfilled by any camera. If we observe the eyes in the perspective of modern TV technologies, the eyes are more like the television camera, but thousands of times more precise than the television cameras. The TV image is composed of dense pixels (the mixed dark or brilliant light spots). Till now, the best TV image only contains less than 1 million pixels. However, the human eyes can produce image containing 20 billion pixels. Only the eyes can see the details of objects. No matter how clear or accurate the image is, it is still a plan view image. Then how the eyes can provide the dimensional image is a key issue of providing the complete vision. But it is not an easy task at all to convert the flat view image into the dimensional one. For a long time, people have been puzzled by how the conversion is done. Of course, we later knew the smartness and delicacy of the human body shown here. The two eyes send the flat view images they receive into the same nerve center, which contrasts and analyzes the images and judges the distance of the objects based on the slight visual angle difference caused by the position difference of the two eyes. Thus the dimensional image is produced. That’s why people have to have 2 eyes to establish the complete vision. Based on such understanding, humans have invented the dimensional movies. But the above is only the external process of how vision is formed. People have little knowledge about how the visual center works inside. We have to admit that the mysteries of human body structure and functions are beyond the intelligence of mankind. As a matter of fact, the distance judgment with two eyes is the triangulation technique which is precise and automatic. The accurate measurement needs two premises. First, the two eyes must focus on one object at the same time. Otherwise, there will be double vision, which means the one objects will be seen as two objects. As a result, the complete neuromuscular system is equipped on the outside of the eyeballs, making the eyeballs the most flexible and accurate organs. The ciliary muscle inside the eyeballs can adjust the conversion rate of the crystal at any time to focus on the object and form the clearest image. Second, the retina of the two eyes must be strictly symmetrical. Otherwise, the image contrast of the two eyes will become impossible. Furthermore, the images received by the two eyes must be transmitted at the same time to the same visual center for contrast and analysis. There are two visual nerves on the left and right side of the brain, supervising respectively the two sides of the vision field. The objects in the left of the vision field are reflected, via the eye pupil, on the retina of the right sides of the two eyeballs. The corresponding images in the two eyes, via the visual nerve, are sent to the visual center on the right side of the brain. The objects in the right of the vision field are reflected, via the eye pupil, on the retina of the left sides of the two eyeballs. The corresponding images in the two eyes, via the visual nerve, are sent to the visual center on the left side of the brain. The two visual nerves contrast the corresponding images coming from the eyes and produce the full-field dimensional images. The pairs of human parts are often symmetrical on the outside. Only the retinas are symmetrical in the same position. Namely, the left side is symmetrical to the left side and the right side symmetrical to the right side of the two retinas. That’s because the light rays come in directly. Otherwise, the visual centers can’t receive the corresponding images or get the coordinated vision. The structural symmetry of the retinas in the two eyes must be accurate to the utmost. Otherwise the images in the two eyes will not comply with each other and the ambiguity will occur. Besides, the corresponding images from the two eyes must be sent to the same visual center. Thus the optic nerves must have the corresponding special structure to realize the cross-transmission of the images. This is the unique “chiasma opticum” unique to the optic nerves. This function is not possessed by any other nervus cerebrospinalis because they don’t handle the information of images and space. If we use the computers and monitoring cameras to simulate the process of human vision, the input network of the computers has to have a similar chiasm. No other design can do it. Judging from the above, we can find all the human organs, structures and functions have shown the supreme wisdom. And these are the ways they should be. Some people think that human body has some useless organs, such as the thymus gland, appendix, tonsil and coccyx, in order to prove the human structure is imperfect. Some people used to believe that these organs were not that useful. Instead, they tend to arouse diseases such as appendicitis and tonsillitis. If these organs are cut off, it will not have much impact on the human body. In the past, people used to classify spleens and other organs into the useless organs. There was a list of useless organs in the past which included over 100 organs. But the list was long not because these organs are useless but because people at the time were ignorant. As more we know about the organs, most of them have been deleted from the list and there are only a few still remain in the list. Some people think that these organs are the leftovers of human evolution, which are called the “waste back organs” and use them as one of the evidences of evolution theory. This is a complete misunderstanding. Till not we have understood there are no such things as the “obsolescent organs”. It is simply the lack of knowledge of these organs. Take the thymus gland as an example. In the past, people didn’t know its function. Now we have understood it is the warning device of the human body against the inner and outer infection sources. As a result, the thymus gland contributes a lot to the human health. Another example, if the coccyx fractures, it will cause serious functional disturbance. So the coccyx is also an imperative part of human body. Some people might say these organs can trigger diseases. Then all human organs can lead to diseases, even brain and heart are of no exceptions. Why don’t we say the brain and heart are useless? Some organs, though they are not as important as the heart and brain and wouldn’t endanger life immediately when eliminated, are also useful. Just like if the hands or feet are lost, though not fatal, the human body is handicapped. After knowing the supreme and smart design of human structures and functions, you might want to know how they come into being. Who has designed and made such sophisticated and precise organs? We cannot avoid the question. Any truth-seeking person would admit that the extremely delicate organs and structures are not produced naturally or accidently. For instance, if someone gives you a top-class camera and tells you it is a natural one without designer or manufacturer; do you think his words are scientific and acceptable? The human body, which is even more delicate, accurate, flexible and practical, must have a supremely wise and capable creator behind it. On a spring Sunday morning in 1954, I saw a young stranger sitting in the chamber of a Church. When we started to talk, I knew that he was a student at Peking Union Medical College. He said to me, “Since I studied anatomy and physiology, I have felt the human body is really a wonder. It is not possible to understand it unless we interpret the wonder with a God.” He came to the church to seek an answer. The wonder of this young man is not the only example. I remember that when I was studying anatomy and physiology in school, some students surrounded our physiology teacher and kept asking him questions. Finally, the teacher, annoyed by so many questions, told us, “Please stop the questions because they will lead to religion in the end.” Because of the special political background at the time, the teacher’s warning silenced all the students. But his warning impressed me deeply and remained in my memory till today. My thought at that time was that the teacher was right because all the things were created by the God. Though he was not a Christian, he had to admit the truth and the further probe into the human body mysteries (part of the Universe mysteries) would definitely lead to the existence of the God (religion) in the end. Otherwise, it would be impossible to explain the wonders of the human body. The Bible says, “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.”(1:20 Romans 1) Was the teacher demonstrating his scientific spirit? No. The scientific spirit means the truth and boldly pursuit of the truth without avoiding any controversy. The teacher knew very clearly that one more step forward would lead to the God but he dared not move onto the path towards the truth. Instead, he asked his students to stop there. It has shown that many people refuse to admit the existence of God not because they don’t have the scientific spirit but because of the social pressure, individual consideration for their interest and prospect, just as what the teacher was doing at that time. Nevertheless, the existence of the God would not change. And we cannot live in such considerations for the reality forever. One day in the future, when we have to face the ultimate choice, we will have to face the supreme master who has created the Universe and the human beings. The Bible says, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” If we don’t accept the immoral God now, we have no excuse when it comes to the day. When we talk about the origin of all things in the Universe, some young people often ask, “You have said the humans are created by the God, then who has created the God?” The analogizing logics seem to be reasonable. But it is not true. Because the God is the creator instead of the created, you can’t link these together. The table is made by the carpenter. But you cannot say the carpenter and the table have the same origin. Human benings’ understand of the God is only limited to the enlightenment from the God to the humans. Otherwise, humans cannot understand the mystery of God’s nature. The God says, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” (Exodus 3:14 and Revelation 1:8). For the God, there is only the eternality, and there is no time, beginning or ending. Even in the scientific field, too many analogizing questions won’t be tolerated. One scholar was talking about the belief in the God with his students. One student asked suddenly and proudly, “Where does the Universe come from?” The scholar answers, “The Universe is created by the God.” The student continued to ask, “Who has created the God?” The scholar answered, “The God is Alpha and Omega and I am not created.” The student said, “This is not scientific at all.” The scholar then asked the student, “Where does the Earth come from?” The student answered, “The Earth comes from the Sun.” The scholar continued to ask, “Where does the Sun come from?” The student answered, “The Sun comes from the Galaxy.” The scholar asked again, “Where does the Galaxy come from?” The student hesitated and answered, “The Galaxy comes from the nature.” The scholar continued to ask, “Where does the nature come from?” The student couldn’t answer this question and said in anger, “The nature is the nature and comes naturally.” The scholar then laughed, “This is not scientific at all.” So we can conclude that the “scientific” answers are not scientific. Another example is that the sciences tell people that substances are composed of the molecules. Then what are the molecules composed of? The molecules are composed of the atoms. But what are the atoms composed of? They are composed of the electrons, protons and neutrons. Then what are the electrons, protons and neutrons composed of? Till now, we cannot find an answer to this question. The atomic physicists are now working hard to find the “elementary particle”. They are called “basic particles” because the scientists don’t expect the substances to be divided limitlessly. So they believe that one day they will find the ultimate component, the “elementary particle”. Of course, the scientists will not ask such question of “what is something composed of?” This is the extremity and everything ends here. The materialists claim that the Universe is limitless and that the materials are eternal and can be divided limitlessly, etc. They are simply the groundless conclusion of the philosophers. And there is an extremity in their logics, the materials. They say that the materials are Alpha and Omega but can’t tell where the materials come from. Now let’s have a look at the math. All numbers come from 1, followed by 2, 3…. You can’t ask what the 1 is because 1 is 1, and not other numbers. It means that 1 is the origin of all numbers. The Greatest Creator has created all things and the Greatest Creator is the origin of them. It will be meaningless to ask where the Greatest Creator comes from.
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2024.05.19 10:57 jenajiejing The Secret of Human Bodies – Examples Proving the Existence of the Greatest Creator
 | submitted by jenajiejing to primordialtruths [link] [comments] Xue Feng https://preview.redd.it/inye2mb6lc1d1.jpg?width=606&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=91a7161a35c1824c81442d04ca1efb17d2cbda20 Though the modern medicine has limited knowledge of human bodies, what we have known is enough for us to admire the excellent human body structure and functions. Each system and organ in the human body is designed by the Greatest Creator. Even those trivial body parts have great functions. For example, there are several types of hairs on human bodies with distinct forms and functions. The head hair is designed to protect and beautify the head. It can grow long. According to the Bible, “But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.” The eyebrows can divert sweat and rain, preventing them into the eyes. That’s why they are lined above the two eyes. Eyelashes can prevent the dust and other things from entering the eyes. That’s why they are lined on the sides of the eyelids. Also they stand forward in a special curve because it wouldn’t hinder the eyesight or pierce into the eyes when closing the eyes. If the eyebrows and eyelashes are too long, they will hinder the eyesight. That’s why they wouldn’t grow as long as the hair or beards. The nasal hairs can filter the inhaled air. That’s why they grow inside the nostril and stand sideways and outwards. If they stand inwards, the other things will find it easy to come into the nostrils and difficult to go out. The armpit hairs can prevent the partial friction and help the sweat evaporate. Without the armpit hairs, we have to raise our arms. Otherwise the skin under the arm will become inflamed because of the friction and moist. Required by the function, the armpit hairs cannot grow as long as the head hairs, or as short as the eyebrows. Besides, they are soft and curving. If they are rigid and coarse, they will hurt the skin. And cilia grow on the intestinal epithelium. The cilia grow downward and vibrate together. The vibrating waves move downward from upward to help move down the intestinal contents. Cilia also grow on the airway and bronchus epithelium. However, they grow and vibrate in the opposite direction as those on the intestinal epithelium. Only in this way can they move the sputum upward to the throat and spit them. If they grow downward, the airway and bronchus would get stuck by the sputum and the humans would die from it. Now I wish to take two simple reflections of human bodies as an example. When foreign matters enter the nostrils or airways, they will arouse two protective reflections, sneeze or cough, which is designed to repel the foreign matters. But due to different situation, these two reflections differ in their approaches. The foreign matters in the nostrils are not urgent so the sneeze reflection can be prepared in a composed way. First, inhale slowly; open the mouth, and the soft place move upward to block the nostril. Then breathe in enough air through the mouth, and the pleural body contracts sharply to emit the air in the lungs quickly. When the emitting reaches its peak, the tongue rises abruptly to block the mouth to repel the air to go out swiftly through the nostrils. In this way the foreign matters in the nostrils are driven out. However, if the foreign matters enter the airway, it is an emergent situation. If the foreign matters are not driven out timely, the life will be put at risk. The inhaling is strictly forbidden because it will make the foreign matters go deeper and cause suffocation. So the cough doesn’t include the inhaling. Instead, the glottis closes immediately. At the same time, the pleural body contracts suddenly and adds the lung air pressure extremely. When the pressure is at its strongest point, the glottis opens suddenly and the lung air sends out explosively, compelling the foreign matters in the airway to the throat via the glottis. At this time, the soft place rises to block the nostrils. The foreign matters are spit out through the mouth. If the tongue and the soft place perform the same way as in the sneeze, the foreign matters emitted out of the airway will enter the nostrils, causing another trouble. In these two reflections, the body parts must cooperate closely. Any failure in the coordination will lead to the failure of the reflection, causing serious consequences. So these activities are not done freely. Instead, they are done as required by their functions and set procedures. These procedures are not learnt or practices. The program has been rooted in our brain nerve structure (nerve nucleus) when we are born. Otherwise, the babies will not survive. The advanced computer science has made it possible to simulate these activities. However, the simulation requires 3 conditions: 1. Device simulating the inhale and exhaling of human mouth, nose, throat, pleural and the sensing device; 2. The central control equipment simulating nerves and body system (compute, input and output devices). The above two devices are hardware. And software is also needed, namely (3). A program composed in strict compliance with the requirements to control the performance and procedure of each link, and arrange them in perfect coordination. All the three conditions are imperative. Otherwise the reflections can’t be realized. The program itself is not a substance structure. Instead, it is a smart use and spiritual result. There will be no such a thing as the program without the smart use. So we have to ask, the program is composed by the humans and stored in the computer, how about the control program in the human brain. Is it also composed by someone and stored in the human brain? Sneeze and cough are the simplest examples. There are numerous automatically controlled physical, bio-chemical and pathological human body activities, which are even more sophisticated than reflections of cough. Even today, some of them remain mysteries to us. So how are these sophisticated control programs composed? And where do they come from? Now let’s have a look at the sensory organs on human bodies. Why do we have two ears? The reason is that one ear is not able to identify the direction. With the ears lying on two sides of the head, the sound reaches the ears in sequence of time. Based on the slight receiving time difference, the brain can judge where the sound comes from. The auricle is the most outward component of the ear. It can introduce the sound into the external auditory canal. Within the auricle there is a thin layer of cartilage helping to retain the form of auricle, giving it wonderful elasticity and protecting it from the clashes. Without the cartilage, the auricle is just two useless pieces of skin hanging on the head side. If the thin bone is inside the auricle, it will break easily even if when you are sleeping on your side, damaging the auricle. There is fuzz on the outer segment of the external auditory canal preventing the sand and dust. The inner segment secretes cerumen to prevent insects. When foreign matters enter the external auditory canal, it will trigger head shaking, instead of sneeze or cough, to get the matters out. Because the external auditory canal is a blind passage, it is impossible to repel the foreign matters with air. Why don’t the foreign matters in the nostrils arouse the head-shaking reflection to repel them? That’s because the nostrils of humans almost lie in the middle of the head. The shaking is not able to produce enough centrifugal force. Besides, the human nostrils face downward and it is improper to repel the foreign matters by shaking the head. The sound is produced by the mechanical vibration of objects and is transmitted by the air fluctuation, or the sound waves. The human ears are actually working like a precise mechanical vibration monitor. In the inner ear there are a number of keyboards with different sizes, producing nerve impulses produced by echoing with corresponding frequencies. The brain, in accordance with the features of these impulses, identifies the strength, tunes and timbre of the sounds. We must note though there are many sensory organs in human bodies, only the inner ear is protected by the most solid and firm bones. In fact, it lies in the cave part of the temporal bone. Of all the sensory organs, only the ears monitor the mechanical vibration, which needs a relatively fixed position. Otherwise, it is not able to monitor the sound. If the inner ear lies in the soft tissues, when the sound wave arrives, the inner ear will vibrate with it. Thus it can hear nothing. Now the inner ear lies in the firm bone and it can’t sense the air vibration. So it is imperative to reduce the density waves to the mechanical vibrations before sending them to the inner ear. And there is such a reduction device at the middle bottom of the external auditory canal, which is called the eardrum. The eardrum has enough space to receive the air pressure. It is thin enough to vibrate when the sound wave arrives. Meanwhile, the eardrum is strong enough to push the transmission device. The long handle of the middle ear cartilage is attached to its inner side, the tensile force of which makes the eardrum sink inside slightly to maintain certain tension. This allows the eardrum to accurately reduce the arriving sound waves into the mechanical vibrations. No matter what the temperature is, the vibration function is not impacted. After the sound waves are reduced into the mechanical vibration, some rigid objects are needed to transmit the vibration to the inner ear. Of all body tissues, the most rigid objects are the bones. However, the bones are heavy in general and covered by the soft tissues, which are not suitable for the audio vibration. However, in the tympanic cavity between the eardrum and the inner ear, there are three unique tiny bones with delicate forms measured in millimeters. They are almost completely exposed to the air in the tympanic cavity. These three tiny bones are connected by ligament and form a transmission chain in curve with excellent audio vibration function, able to transmit accurately the vibration of the eardrum to the inner ear. The transmission device can properly multiply the weak vibration and reduce the strong sound wave. All of these structures are the super designs required by the acoustics. There are even smarter designs in the hearing organ. For example, to make the eardrum vibrate freely following the arriving sound waves, the two sides of the eardrums must be exposed to the air. As a result, there is a tympanic cavity full of air in the middle ear. If the cavity is filled by liquids, just as other cavities are, the eardrum is not able to vibrate because the liquids can’t contract. Besides, the cavity does not only need to be filled with air, but also needs to be connected to the outside world with a proper passage, to balance the static air pressure in the cavity with the outside air pressure. Otherwise, the air in the cavity will gradually be absorbed, causing the eardrum to sink excessively or damaging it. When the outside air pressure changes, (such as in mountain climbing, diving, the airplane takeoff or climate change), it will arouse uncomfortable feelings or lead to hearing malfunction. But the middle ear can’t be opened to the outside world directly, just like the external auditory canal or nostrils can. The reason is that the direct exposure will make the arriving waving sound reach the two sides of the eardrums at the same time via the external auditory canal and middle ear passage, counteracting the sound pressure. Thus the eardrums will not vibrate at all, unable to produce the hearing. So it is a difficult problem to connect the middle ear and the outside world. However, the human body, with a smart design, solves this problem. The middle ear is opened at the two sides in the upper rear of the pharynx via a half-opened passage (the so-called auditory tube). The auditory tube is locked in common times and only opened temporarily when taking the swallowing actions, balancing the air pressure in the middle ear shortly. After the swallowing action is over, the auditory tube is locked again. Apart from eating, human body would regularly take swallowing action unconsciously, even when he or she is sleeping. Thus the air pressure in the middle ear can be adjusted from time to time and avoid the hearing from being hindered. Besides, when swallowing, the swallowing segment and the soft palate will definitely rise, blocking the mouth and nostrils against the outside world. So on the moment when the ear and throat are opened shortly, though the air in the throat can enter the middle ear, the sound waves from the outside world are blocked against the middle ear. As a result, the hearing will not be interfered and can receive the outside sound and voice. Only the throat in the body can meet the special demand of the hearing organs. The throat is originally designed as part of the digestion and breathing system, it does not belong to sensory system. However, it can cooperate so smartly with the hearing organs. We have to admire the extremely delicate body-wise design. The vestibule in the inner ear controls the balance of the body. In the vestibule there are 3 semicircular canals. When the body loses balance, the mutually-vertical semicircular canals produce the balance impulse, which triggers the corresponding reflection via the balance center in the medulla brain. Why are there 3 semicircular canals instead of 2 or 4? And why are they mutually vertical? The reason is apparent. Humans live in the 3-dimensional space. There are 3 mutually-vertical movement directions, namely, front and rear, left and right, upward and downward. So the 3 mutually-vertical semicircular canals can monitor the movements. The number less than 3 or more than 3 would be insufficient or redundant. We can see the delicate and smart structure and function, and the supreme wisdom in them. They can’t be the accidental results. As the most important perception of human bodies, vision provides more information than that provided by all other perceptions. The vision is the perception of image and space and the visual organs must have the most precise and accurate structure completely different from other sensory organs. As a result, in the perspective of the embryo-genesis or neuro-anatomy, the main structure of the eyes is not just the common receptor. Instead, it is part of the cerebral cortex. The so-called optic nerves are completely different from other cerebrospinal nerves. In essence, the optic nerves are inner structure in the brain, transmitting the most sophisticated visual information. The eyes function like a precise camera. The retina composed of the photoreceptor cells is just like the films. The crystal, iris and the cornea works like the lens, diaphragm and the filter. However, the precision and automatic adjustment of the eyes is no match of any high-quality cameras. For example, the lens in modern cameras is made of special glass or hard plastics with fixed focal distance. When taking pictures for the landscapes with different distances, the lens position must be adjusted. Otherwise, the image will not be produced on the films. But this is an awkward approach. Imagine when the eyes are watching landscapes with different distances, the eyeballs have to protrude or recess alternatively, which looks ugly or damages the health and function of the eyes. However, the crystal in the eyes are transparent and elastic colloid, which can adjust automatically the focal distance in accordance with the distance of the objects to make sure all the objects can be imaged on the retina, without changing the position of the crystal. Such automatic adjustment function can’t be fulfilled by any camera. If we observe the eyes in the perspective of modern TV technologies, the eyes are more like the television camera, but thousands of times more precise than the television cameras. The TV image is composed of dense pixels (the mixed dark or brilliant light spots). Till now, the best TV image only contains less than 1 million pixels. However, the human eyes can produce image containing 20 billion pixels. Only the eyes can see the details of objects. No matter how clear or accurate the image is, it is still a plan view image. Then how the eyes can provide the dimensional image is a key issue of providing the complete vision. But it is not an easy task at all to convert the flat view image into the dimensional one. For a long time, people have been puzzled by how the conversion is done. Of course, we later knew the smartness and delicacy of the human body shown here. The two eyes send the flat view images they receive into the same nerve center, which contrasts and analyzes the images and judges the distance of the objects based on the slight visual angle difference caused by the position difference of the two eyes. Thus the dimensional image is produced. That’s why people have to have 2 eyes to establish the complete vision. Based on such understanding, humans have invented the dimensional movies. But the above is only the external process of how vision is formed. People have little knowledge about how the visual center works inside. We have to admit that the mysteries of human body structure and functions are beyond the intelligence of mankind. As a matter of fact, the distance judgment with two eyes is the triangulation technique which is precise and automatic. The accurate measurement needs two premises. First, the two eyes must focus on one object at the same time. Otherwise, there will be double vision, which means the one objects will be seen as two objects. As a result, the complete neuromuscular system is equipped on the outside of the eyeballs, making the eyeballs the most flexible and accurate organs. The ciliary muscle inside the eyeballs can adjust the conversion rate of the crystal at any time to focus on the object and form the clearest image. Second, the retina of the two eyes must be strictly symmetrical. Otherwise, the image contrast of the two eyes will become impossible. Furthermore, the images received by the two eyes must be transmitted at the same time to the same visual center for contrast and analysis. There are two visual nerves on the left and right side of the brain, supervising respectively the two sides of the vision field. The objects in the left of the vision field are reflected, via the eye pupil, on the retina of the right sides of the two eyeballs. The corresponding images in the two eyes, via the visual nerve, are sent to the visual center on the right side of the brain. The objects in the right of the vision field are reflected, via the eye pupil, on the retina of the left sides of the two eyeballs. The corresponding images in the two eyes, via the visual nerve, are sent to the visual center on the left side of the brain. The two visual nerves contrast the corresponding images coming from the eyes and produce the full-field dimensional images. The pairs of human parts are often symmetrical on the outside. Only the retinas are symmetrical in the same position. Namely, the left side is symmetrical to the left side and the right side symmetrical to the right side of the two retinas. That’s because the light rays come in directly. Otherwise, the visual centers can’t receive the corresponding images or get the coordinated vision. The structural symmetry of the retinas in the two eyes must be accurate to the utmost. Otherwise the images in the two eyes will not comply with each other and the ambiguity will occur. Besides, the corresponding images from the two eyes must be sent to the same visual center. Thus the optic nerves must have the corresponding special structure to realize the cross-transmission of the images. This is the unique “chiasma opticum” unique to the optic nerves. This function is not possessed by any other nervus cerebrospinalis because they don’t handle the information of images and space. If we use the computers and monitoring cameras to simulate the process of human vision, the input network of the computers has to have a similar chiasm. No other design can do it. Judging from the above, we can find all the human organs, structures and functions have shown the supreme wisdom. And these are the ways they should be. Some people think that human body has some useless organs, such as the thymus gland, appendix, tonsil and coccyx, in order to prove the human structure is imperfect. Some people used to believe that these organs were not that useful. Instead, they tend to arouse diseases such as appendicitis and tonsillitis. If these organs are cut off, it will not have much impact on the human body. In the past, people used to classify spleens and other organs into the useless organs. There was a list of useless organs in the past which included over 100 organs. But the list was long not because these organs are useless but because people at the time were ignorant. As more we know about the organs, most of them have been deleted from the list and there are only a few still remain in the list. Some people think that these organs are the leftovers of human evolution, which are called the “waste back organs” and use them as one of the evidences of evolution theory. This is a complete misunderstanding. Till not we have understood there are no such things as the “obsolescent organs”. It is simply the lack of knowledge of these organs. Take the thymus gland as an example. In the past, people didn’t know its function. Now we have understood it is the warning device of the human body against the inner and outer infection sources. As a result, the thymus gland contributes a lot to the human health. Another example, if the coccyx fractures, it will cause serious functional disturbance. So the coccyx is also an imperative part of human body. Some people might say these organs can trigger diseases. Then all human organs can lead to diseases, even brain and heart are of no exceptions. Why don’t we say the brain and heart are useless? Some organs, though they are not as important as the heart and brain and wouldn’t endanger life immediately when eliminated, are also useful. Just like if the hands or feet are lost, though not fatal, the human body is handicapped. After knowing the supreme and smart design of human structures and functions, you might want to know how they come into being. Who has designed and made such sophisticated and precise organs? We cannot avoid the question. Any truth-seeking person would admit that the extremely delicate organs and structures are not produced naturally or accidently. For instance, if someone gives you a top-class camera and tells you it is a natural one without designer or manufacturer; do you think his words are scientific and acceptable? The human body, which is even more delicate, accurate, flexible and practical, must have a supremely wise and capable creator behind it. On a spring Sunday morning in 1954, I saw a young stranger sitting in the chamber of a Church. When we started to talk, I knew that he was a student at Peking Union Medical College. He said to me, “Since I studied anatomy and physiology, I have felt the human body is really a wonder. It is not possible to understand it unless we interpret the wonder with a God.” He came to the church to seek an answer. The wonder of this young man is not the only example. I remember that when I was studying anatomy and physiology in school, some students surrounded our physiology teacher and kept asking him questions. Finally, the teacher, annoyed by so many questions, told us, “Please stop the questions because they will lead to religion in the end.” Because of the special political background at the time, the teacher’s warning silenced all the students. But his warning impressed me deeply and remained in my memory till today. My thought at that time was that the teacher was right because all the things were created by the God. Though he was not a Christian, he had to admit the truth and the further probe into the human body mysteries (part of the Universe mysteries) would definitely lead to the existence of the God (religion) in the end. Otherwise, it would be impossible to explain the wonders of the human body. The Bible says, “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.”(1:20 Romans 1) Was the teacher demonstrating his scientific spirit? No. The scientific spirit means the truth and boldly pursuit of the truth without avoiding any controversy. The teacher knew very clearly that one more step forward would lead to the God but he dared not move onto the path towards the truth. Instead, he asked his students to stop there. It has shown that many people refuse to admit the existence of God not because they don’t have the scientific spirit but because of the social pressure, individual consideration for their interest and prospect, just as what the teacher was doing at that time. Nevertheless, the existence of the God would not change. And we cannot live in such considerations for the reality forever. One day in the future, when we have to face the ultimate choice, we will have to face the supreme master who has created the Universe and the human beings. The Bible says, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” If we don’t accept the immoral God now, we have no excuse when it comes to the day. When we talk about the origin of all things in the Universe, some young people often ask, “You have said the humans are created by the God, then who has created the God?” The analogizing logics seem to be reasonable. But it is not true. Because the God is the creator instead of the created, you can’t link these together. The table is made by the carpenter. But you cannot say the carpenter and the table have the same origin. Human benings’ understand of the God is only limited to the enlightenment from the God to the humans. Otherwise, humans cannot understand the mystery of God’s nature. The God says, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” (Exodus 3:14 and Revelation 1:8). For the God, there is only the eternality, and there is no time, beginning or ending. Even in the scientific field, too many analogizing questions won’t be tolerated. One scholar was talking about the belief in the God with his students. One student asked suddenly and proudly, “Where does the Universe come from?” The scholar answers, “The Universe is created by the God.” The student continued to ask, “Who has created the God?” The scholar answered, “The God is Alpha and Omega and I am not created.” The student said, “This is not scientific at all.” The scholar then asked the student, “Where does the Earth come from?” The student answered, “The Earth comes from the Sun.” The scholar continued to ask, “Where does the Sun come from?” The student answered, “The Sun comes from the Galaxy.” The scholar asked again, “Where does the Galaxy come from?” The student hesitated and answered, “The Galaxy comes from the nature.” The scholar continued to ask, “Where does the nature come from?” The student couldn’t answer this question and said in anger, “The nature is the nature and comes naturally.” The scholar then laughed, “This is not scientific at all.” So we can conclude that the “scientific” answers are not scientific. Another example is that the sciences tell people that substances are composed of the molecules. Then what are the molecules composed of? The molecules are composed of the atoms. But what are the atoms composed of? They are composed of the electrons, protons and neutrons. Then what are the electrons, protons and neutrons composed of? Till now, we cannot find an answer to this question. The atomic physicists are now working hard to find the “elementary particle”. They are called “basic particles” because the scientists don’t expect the substances to be divided limitlessly. So they believe that one day they will find the ultimate component, the “elementary particle”. Of course, the scientists will not ask such question of “what is something composed of?” This is the extremity and everything ends here. The materialists claim that the Universe is limitless and that the materials are eternal and can be divided limitlessly, etc. They are simply the groundless conclusion of the philosophers. And there is an extremity in their logics, the materials. They say that the materials are Alpha and Omega but can’t tell where the materials come from. Now let’s have a look at the math. All numbers come from 1, followed by 2, 3…. You can’t ask what the 1 is because 1 is 1, and not other numbers. It means that 1 is the origin of all numbers. The Greatest Creator has created all things and the Greatest Creator is the origin of them. It will be meaningless to ask where the Greatest Creator comes from. |
2024.05.19 10:34 _Triple_ [STORE] 900+ KNIVES/GLOVES/SKINS, 100.000$+ INVENTORY. BFK Lore, Gloves Amphibious, Skeleton Fade, Bowie Emerald, BFK Auto, Gloves MF, Talon Doppler, Gloves POW, Bayo Tiger, Gut Sapphire, Stiletto MF, M9 Ultra, Ursus Doppler, Flip Doppler, M9 Stained, Nomad CW, Paracord CW, AK-47 X-Ray & A Lot More
Everything in my inventory is up for trade. The most valuable items are listed here, the rest you can find in My Inventory
Feel free to Add Me or even better send a Trade Offer. Open for any suggestions: upgrades, downgrades / knives, gloves, skins / stickers, patterns, floats.
All Buyouts are listed in cash value.
KNIVES
★ Butterfly Knife Lore (Factory New), B/O: $7194.77
★ Butterfly Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2025.74
⎯★ M9 Bayonet Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $557.87
★ M9 Bayonet Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $529.41
★ M9 Bayonet Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $465.39
⎯★ Talon Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $1295.27
★ Bayonet Tiger Tooth (Minimal Wear), B/O: $746.28
★ Karambit Bright Water (Field-Tested), B/O: $688.15
⎯★ Flip Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $547.93
★ Flip Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $476.69
★ Flip Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $278.18
★ Flip Knife Black Laminate (Well-Worn), B/O: $258.83
★ Flip Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $181.64
⎯★ Stiletto Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $686.04
★ Stiletto Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $665.41
★ Stiletto Knife, B/O: $601.39
★ Stiletto Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $418.25
★ Stiletto Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $227.80
★ Stiletto Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.96
★ Stiletto Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $192.79
⎯★ Nomad Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $518.11
★ Nomad Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $169.78
★ Nomad Knife Forest DDPAT (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $166.88
★ StatTrak™ Nomad Knife Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $335.79
⎯★ Skeleton Knife Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $442.05
★ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Minimal Wear), B/O: $426.24
★ Skeleton Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $314.03
★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2361.28
★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $376.53
⎯★ Ursus Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $557.12
★ Ursus Knife, B/O: $471.42
★ Ursus Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $212.37
★ Ursus Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $187.66
★ Ursus Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $178.18
★ Ursus Knife Ultraviolet (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $155.13
★ Ursus Knife Boreal Forest (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.26
⎯★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Minimal Wear), B/O: $204.83
★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Field-Tested), B/O: $184.50
★ StatTrak™ Huntsman Knife Lore (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $224.11
⎯★ Bowie Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $2142.02
★ Bowie Knife, B/O: $230.44
★ Bowie Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $209.20
★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.51
★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03
⎯★ Falchion Knife Night (Field-Tested), B/O: $132.54
★ Falchion Knife Urban Masked (Well-Worn), B/O: $112.81
★ Falchion Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $108.81
★ Falchion Knife Forest DDPAT (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.82
★ Falchion Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.46
★ StatTrak™ Falchion Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $143.08
⎯★ Paracord Knife Crimson Web (Minimal Wear), B/O: $486.48
★ Paracord Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $163.12
⎯★ Survival Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $138.26
★ Survival Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03
⎯★ Gut Knife Sapphire (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1127.79
★ Gut Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $286.17
★ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $246.55
★ Gut Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $240.77
★ Gut Knife, B/O: $210.49
★ Gut Knife Lore (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.22
★ Gut Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $151.51
★ Gut Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.94
★ Gut Knife Rust Coat (Well-Worn), B/O: $118.99
★ Gut Knife Boreal Forest (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.80
★ StatTrak™ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $237.96
⎯★ Shadow Daggers Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $264.92
★ Shadow Daggers Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $253.03
★ Shadow Daggers Tiger Tooth (Factory New), B/O: $237.22
★ Shadow Daggers Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.40
★ Shadow Daggers Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $144.42
★ Shadow Daggers Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $105.20
★ StatTrak™ Shadow Daggers Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $150.46
⎯★ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $365.99
★ Navaja Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $228.93
★ Navaja Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $227.43
★ Navaja Knife Slaughter (Factory New), B/O: $209.06
★ Navaja Knife, B/O: $203.16
★ Navaja Knife Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $132.57
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $121.69
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.95
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $100.41
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $369.01
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $109.95
GLOVES
★ Sport Gloves Amphibious (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2394.67
★ Sport Gloves Omega (Well-Worn), B/O: $572.33
★ Sport Gloves Bronze Morph (Minimal Wear), B/O: $338.88
★ Sport Gloves Big Game (Field-Tested), B/O: $323.66
⎯★ Specialist Gloves Marble Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1652.07
★ Specialist Gloves Tiger Strike (Field-Tested), B/O: $599.14
★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Web (Well-Worn), B/O: $231.57
★ Specialist Gloves Buckshot (Minimal Wear), B/O: $126.21
⎯★ Moto Gloves POW! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $996.99
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Field-Tested), B/O: $383.31
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Well-Worn), B/O: $276.00
★ Moto Gloves Turtle (Field-Tested), B/O: $180.28
⎯★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $502.29
★ Hand Wraps Giraffe (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.73
★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $178.32
⎯★ Driver Gloves Queen Jaguar (Minimal Wear), B/O: $181.01
★ Driver Gloves Rezan the Red (Field-Tested), B/O: $101.66
⎯★ Broken Fang Gloves Jade (Field-Tested), B/O: $127.88
★ Broken Fang Gloves Needle Point (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.55
⎯★ Bloodhound Gloves Guerrilla (Minimal Wear), B/O: $127.94
★ Hydra Gloves Case Hardened (Field-Tested), B/O: $102.55
WEAPONS
AK-47 X-Ray (Well-Worn), B/O: $478.95
AUG Hot Rod (Factory New), B/O: $425.83
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Hyper Beast (Factory New), B/O: $413.95
M4A4 Daybreak (Factory New), B/O: $309.51
StatTrak™ AK-47 Aquamarine Revenge (Factory New), B/O: $305.43
AK-47 Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $196.38
StatTrak™ M4A4 Temukau (Minimal Wear), B/O: $174.64
P90 Run and Hide (Field-Tested), B/O: $167.03
AWP Asiimov (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.33
Souvenir SSG 08 Death Strike (Minimal Wear), B/O: $140.00
M4A1-S Printstream (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.70
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Golden Coil (Field-Tested), B/O: $117.48
AWP Asiimov (Well-Worn), B/O: $115.97
StatTrak™ Desert Eagle Printstream (Minimal Wear), B/O: $112.96
StatTrak™ AK-47 Asiimov (Minimal Wear), B/O: $110.85
Souvenir M4A1-S Master Piece (Well-Worn), B/O: $102.42
AK-47 Bloodsport (Minimal Wear), B/O: $100.53
Trade Offer Link - Steam Profile Link - My Inventory
Some items on the list may no longer be available or are still locked, visit My Inventory for more details.
Send a Trade Offer for fastest response. I consider all offers.
Add me for discuss if there is a serious offer that needs to be discussed.
2024.05.19 09:44 -notausername_ TSMR X - The X Factor
 | Tansio Mirai is a Chinese company that has quickly been building in notoriety over the last few years, and I would be surprised if you have not already heard of them. Their Sands and Lands iems in particular were very big sellers and quite highly regarded in their respective price range for high levels of detail. Will they continue to tread that path on their tenth anniversary edition iem? In a simple word, no. The "X" feels like a compilation of everything they have released and all that they have learned. I'll explain how further shortly. submitted by -notausername_ to headphones [link] [comments] The unboxing is a great experience and includes a very nice braided cable, some ear tips, a cleaning tool, case and a tool to change the tuning switches. Tuning switches you say? That will be part of the explanation I mentioned above so please dear reader, don't give up on me so soon ;). The iems themselves are a very nice 3d printed variety, with a beautiful aquamarine type colour that really looks fantastic in the sunlight. They are a hybrid type iem, containing 2 dynamic drivers, + 4BA + 1 Custom Film Retarding Driver. From the manufacturer: Low frequency: 2 x 8mm strong magnet dynamic, hollow coaxial structure, Carbon mixed diaphragm Mid frequency: 2 x Knowles balanced armature High frequency: 2 x Sonion balanced armature Full frequency effect: 1 x custom film retarding driver The custom film retarding driver seems similar to the tech in u12t and the like, not sure if this is considered a "driver" persay, but I am not here to get hung up on semantics. There are three tuning switches as well (123), the default being 020. I spent most of my time hovering between 020 and 003. I can without a doubt say that unlike other iems I have tried with tuning switches, these are legitimately not a gimmick and have a very audible effect on the sound. In a sense it makes them sound like three totally different iems. 100 is extremely bassy, causing bleed into the mids. If you are a supreme basshead this may be your bag. For me, it was far too much and caused a loss of upper detail that is important to me. 020 on the other hand is a w shape style, causing the mids to recess very slightly yet still sound full bodied, and brings the bass down enough to bring out the treble nicely. 003 still has loads of bass but brings the mids forward and brings out much more of the high end detail, without ever getting sibilant. I feel like this was personally my favorite setting, though as always ymmv! This is where I feel Tansio Mirai have really changed their game! Previously known for treble filled iems with gobs of detail, this is a comparably different path for them, yet with the tuning switches you still get the option to get a more detailed, analytical style. Win win for all really! I recommend tip rolling with these, since they have short nozzles I needed a longer tip to really do them justice and get the seal I was looking for. Once I did however, WOW. This leads me to my next section and the one you have probably been patiently waiting for, the sound! First let's start off with what I think is the best part of these, the bass. It is visceral, raw, but also textured and well presented. It does not bleed into the mids or cause these to be a warm iem. The best way I can describe these is a baby IER-Z1R, and considering the price difference, that is probably one of the biggest compliments I can bestow! Seriously, the bass presentation here is fantastic. It is bass you feel deeply, and it is deep with loads of impact. Easily the best I have heard in this price range. The mids are slightly recessed, though mostly in the lower mids. I would say this is done perfectly for my tastes. The mids have loads of detail and sound equally good with male and female vocal ranges. Upper mids have a lot of energy but never getting peaky, shouty or sibilant. Percussion sounds fantastic, guitars have lots of crunch, vocals soar and are never placed too far back. The treble is great, well extended with lots of detail while rolling off at the top to avoid any sibilance or sharpness. Micro detail is present, without being too in your face. They have an airy presentation that leaves lots of room to pick out individual sounds, however I would not consider them analytical at all. Imaging is average for the price. The soundstage is decently wide, however it is taller and deeper than usual in this price giving a pretty 3d or holographic effect uncommon at this price. If you can't tell, I think this is a fantastic IEM, and at the price I think it is an absolute steal. Even at the regular price of 699 usd this would be a competitive IEM. 5/5 |
2024.05.19 09:39 -notausername_ TSMR X - The X Factor
 | Tansio Mirai is a Chinese company that has quickly been building in notoriety over the last few years, and I would be surprised if you have not already heard of them. Their Sands and Lands iems in particular were very big sellers and quite highly regarded in their respective price range for high levels of detail. Will they continue to tread that path on their tenth anniversary edition iem? In a simple word, no. The "X" feels like a compilation of everything they have released and all that they have learned. I'll explain how further shortly. submitted by -notausername_ to iems [link] [comments] The unboxing is a great experience and includes a very nice braided cable, some ear tips, a cleaning tool, case and a tool to change the tuning switches. Tuning switches you say? That will be part of the explanation I mentioned above so please dear reader, don't give up on me so soon ;). The iems themselves are a very nice 3d printed variety, with a beautiful aquamarine type colour that really looks fantastic in the sunlight. They are a hybrid type iem, containing 2 dynamic drivers, + 4BA + 1 Custom Film Retarding Driver. From the manufacturer: Low frequency: 2 x 8mm strong magnet dynamic, hollow coaxial structure, Carbon mixed diaphragm Mid frequency: 2 x Knowles balanced armature High frequency: 2 x Sonion balanced armature Full frequency effect: 1 x custom film retarding driver The custom film retarding driver seems similar to the tech in u12t and the like, not sure if this is considered a "driver" persay, but I am not here to get hung up on semantics. There are three tuning switches as well (123), the default being 020. I spent most of my time hovering between 020 and 003. I can without a doubt say that unlike other iems I have tried with tuning switches, these are legitimately not a gimmick and have a very audible effect on the sound. In a sense it makes them sound like three totally different iems. 100 is extremely bassy, causing bleed into the mids. If you are a supreme basshead this may be your bag. For me, it was far too much and caused a loss of upper detail that is important to me. 020 on the other hand is a w shape style, causing the mids to recess very slightly yet still sound full bodied, and brings the bass down enough to bring out the treble nicely. 003 still has loads of bass but brings the mids forward and brings out much more of the high end detail, without ever getting sibilant. I feel like this was personally my favorite setting, though as always ymmv! This is where I feel Tansio Mirai have really changed their game! Previously known for treble filled iems with gobs of detail, this is a comparably different path for them, yet with the tuning switches you still get the option to get a more detailed, analytical style. Win win for all really! I recommend tip rolling with these, since they have short nozzles I needed a longer tip to really do them justice and get the seal I was looking for. Once I did however, WOW. This leads me to my next section and the one you have probably been patiently waiting for, the sound! First let's start off with what I think is the best part of these, the bass. It is visceral, raw, but also textured and well presented. It does not bleed into the mids or cause these to be a warm iem. The best way I can describe these is a baby IER-Z1R, and considering the price difference, that is probably one of the biggest compliments I can bestow! Seriously, the bass presentation here is fantastic. It is bass you feel deeply, and it is deep with loads of impact. Easily the best I have heard in this price range. The mids are slightly recessed, though mostly in the lower mids. I would say this is done perfectly for my tastes. The mids have loads of detail and sound equally good with male and female vocal ranges. Upper mids have a lot of energy but never getting peaky, shouty or sibilant. Percussion sounds fantastic, guitars have lots of crunch, vocals soar and are never placed too far back. The treble is great, well extended with lots of detail while rolling off at the top to avoid any sibilance or sharpness. Micro detail is present, without being too in your face. They have an airy presentation that leaves lots of room to pick out individual sounds, however I would not consider them analytical at all. Imaging is average for the price. The soundstage is decently wide, however it is taller and deeper than usual in this price giving a pretty 3d or holographic effect uncommon at this price. If you can't tell, I think this is a fantastic IEM, and at the price I think it is an absolute steal. Even at the regular price of 699 usd this would be a competitive IEM. 5/5 |
2024.05.19 09:33 FossilBoi Viracocha Unbound - Part Twenty: False Bottom
Once the grisly hunt had ended, we waited until the hunters were over the hill and gone. As we sat in the Reina del Cielo, we processed everything. Not only were the Pullman-Seldano people here and messing up the place, but were going as far as to commit wanton murder on the wildlife. “Ok, guys,” Calderon said, breaking the tense silence. “I know that was awful to see - and take it from me, I’ve seen some shit across the world, all kinds of shit done to animals - but we’ve got to keep going. What if they come back?” We reluctantly agreed, and off we went, initially silently as we feared there may still be some people in the area. We continued northwest along the Yaku River, and as another hour ticked by, we found ourselves at yet another tributary. This time, the one that connects the Yaku, Utjawi, and Kasike Rivers. “Hold on, we gotta do a quick reorientation along the current here,” Calderon announced as he started to prevent the plane from drifting off down the wrong river. But then, as we started our cross, an explosion shook the water, and we were briefly tossed up into the air, landing back down with a tremendous splash. “What the hell? What was that?”
Then the whole river system started to shake, the water bashing against and spilling onto the shores like an overflowing bathtub. As this happened, over the sound of roaring, agitated water came the sound of stone crumbling. Then, as Calderon tried to maneuver to where the river continued to our northwest, one of the hydrofoils made contact with the shoreline, and we were briefly stuck. Once the hydrofoil was dislodged, then our whole right side began to sink, and we saw that the shoreline was collapsing, sand and silt falling into a large space below. With our left side in the air and the water pushing us, we found ourselves falling downward. We fell surprisingly not far down, only about 15 or 20 feet down. We landed in a pool of brownish water, and as the river water and falling sand and silt above followed us down, we looked around to see just what kind of cavity we fell into. Surprisingly (or perhaps not, at this point), it was manmade.
We had landed in a large tunnel dug into the bedrock. The ‘river’ we landed in seemed to be a stream of dirty runoff following the main path of the tunnel route next to us. The end behind us led on into blackness, and the end in front of us was shut away by a steel gate. 30 feet away sat a large vehicle next to stacks of steel crates. This vehicle resembled a massive bulldozer, with several clawed metal arms tucked on the side, giving it a somewhat insectoid appearance. The main blade was divided into two parts, which resembled enormous metal claws then they did a bulldozer blade. As my eyes wandered around the area, I noticed that the vehicle was restrained by chains, with a small sign nearby reading in big red letters: “OUT OF ORDER.” We reluctantly disembarked the plane to assess the damage, and while it wasn’t severe, it was yet another blow that stopped our progress. We had resigned ourselves to our little inconvenient fate when we heard a snarl above us. Looking up and peering over the edge was the head of a toothy gulper. The aquatic dinosaur clearly took an interest in us, and even though it seemed to be deciding whether or not to follow us down, the river made its choice for it, the water shoving the animal down with us, thankfully next to the plane instead of on top of it.
The enormous animal flopped around upon landing and tried to go for us. Running back inside the safety of the plane, we were shoved into the rock wall to our left, and Calderon and Missy aimed weapons at the creature, but didn’t fire yet. As this happened, the toothy gulper tried to wrap itself around the plane. “What are you waiting for? Fire!” Mary Ann yelled. Missy shook her head. “Not yet, it has to line up.” Mary Ann looked confused, approaching Missy’s station. “Now?” Missy shook her head. The creature was now bearing down on our right wing, its elongated body lining up to around the gate. “Now!” Missy exclaimed, and the electrical guns fired. The toothy gulper was shot backwards, flying back at great speed as it’s enormous body collided with the gate, bringing it down with a loud clash. With this came the sounds of further objects clattering. As the dust cleared, the path ahead was shown to be dimly lit, with a row of weak yellow lights along the ceiling. Shelves collapsed as tools and other objects rolled out into view. One of these was unlike the others: a yellow crystal that caught the light as it rolled out, with bits of stone still stuck to it. Then the appearance of the crystal made sense. Viracochite. This was a mine. And the smoking gun? The label on the vehicle not far away, and logo proudly emblazoned on various tools and other items spilling out? Pullman-Seldano.
submitted by FossilBoi to MonarchCustomTitans [link] [comments]
Then the whole river system started to shake, the water bashing against and spilling onto the shores like an overflowing bathtub. As this happened, over the sound of roaring, agitated water came the sound of stone crumbling. Then, as Calderon tried to maneuver to where the river continued to our northwest, one of the hydrofoils made contact with the shoreline, and we were briefly stuck. Once the hydrofoil was dislodged, then our whole right side began to sink, and we saw that the shoreline was collapsing, sand and silt falling into a large space below. With our left side in the air and the water pushing us, we found ourselves falling downward. We fell surprisingly not far down, only about 15 or 20 feet down. We landed in a pool of brownish water, and as the river water and falling sand and silt above followed us down, we looked around to see just what kind of cavity we fell into. Surprisingly (or perhaps not, at this point), it was manmade.
We had landed in a large tunnel dug into the bedrock. The ‘river’ we landed in seemed to be a stream of dirty runoff following the main path of the tunnel route next to us. The end behind us led on into blackness, and the end in front of us was shut away by a steel gate. 30 feet away sat a large vehicle next to stacks of steel crates. This vehicle resembled a massive bulldozer, with several clawed metal arms tucked on the side, giving it a somewhat insectoid appearance. The main blade was divided into two parts, which resembled enormous metal claws then they did a bulldozer blade. As my eyes wandered around the area, I noticed that the vehicle was restrained by chains, with a small sign nearby reading in big red letters: “OUT OF ORDER.” We reluctantly disembarked the plane to assess the damage, and while it wasn’t severe, it was yet another blow that stopped our progress. We had resigned ourselves to our little inconvenient fate when we heard a snarl above us. Looking up and peering over the edge was the head of a toothy gulper. The aquatic dinosaur clearly took an interest in us, and even though it seemed to be deciding whether or not to follow us down, the river made its choice for it, the water shoving the animal down with us, thankfully next to the plane instead of on top of it.
The enormous animal flopped around upon landing and tried to go for us. Running back inside the safety of the plane, we were shoved into the rock wall to our left, and Calderon and Missy aimed weapons at the creature, but didn’t fire yet. As this happened, the toothy gulper tried to wrap itself around the plane. “What are you waiting for? Fire!” Mary Ann yelled. Missy shook her head. “Not yet, it has to line up.” Mary Ann looked confused, approaching Missy’s station. “Now?” Missy shook her head. The creature was now bearing down on our right wing, its elongated body lining up to around the gate. “Now!” Missy exclaimed, and the electrical guns fired. The toothy gulper was shot backwards, flying back at great speed as it’s enormous body collided with the gate, bringing it down with a loud clash. With this came the sounds of further objects clattering. As the dust cleared, the path ahead was shown to be dimly lit, with a row of weak yellow lights along the ceiling. Shelves collapsed as tools and other objects rolled out into view. One of these was unlike the others: a yellow crystal that caught the light as it rolled out, with bits of stone still stuck to it. Then the appearance of the crystal made sense. Viracochite. This was a mine. And the smoking gun? The label on the vehicle not far away, and logo proudly emblazoned on various tools and other items spilling out? Pullman-Seldano.
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 it’s in the depths of hell."
“Sure thing,” 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 I’d 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 he’d gotten in a back-alley shop as a teenager. He said that he’d 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, I’d gotten food poisoning because he’d 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 Hitch’s 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 didn’t 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 didn’t get to use it. “That’s…weird as hell.”
“Maybe the deadbolt broke, maybe they forgot to lock it, it doesn’t matter,” I hissed, checking our surroundings for other people again. “Just hurry up and get inside before someone calls the cops.”
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. “Look out the windows and tell me if anyone is coming.”
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.
“Well, well, well,” said a cultured voice with just an edge of snooty elitism. “What do we have here?”
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.
“Who the fuck are you?” Hitch said, inching towards a window.
He smiled, just a little bit, and his teeth shone in the dim light. “I am the Erlking.”
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. “You know, I’m not very fond of your yapping.”
He made an idle gesture and the sand wrapped around my ankles, tethering me in place.
“I yap all the time,” Hitch said. “Three-time olympic yapper, that’s me. Best to just let me go now and save yourself some trouble.”
The Erlking tapped a manicured nail against Hitch’s mouth, hard enough to hurt, judging by the way he flinched away. “But why would I ever let you go when I’ve gone to this much trouble to catch you and your sister? It’s so hard, these days, to find people that no one will miss.”
Hitch struggled against the sand, trying to escape and failing. “What do you want with us, then? You just said it, we’re nobody.”
“I’m fae, dear one,” the Erlking said. “I get my power from my followers. And I think that you two will make lovely additions to my flock.”
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 Erlking’s 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 Hitch’s 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 Erlking’s 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 Sam’s 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. I’d bought it as a fiftieth birthday gift for myself, and I took comfort in the heavy weight of it over my shoulders.
“Coming!” 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.
“Hi, I’m Sam, I specialize in supernatural consultation and hunting, how may I help you today?” Sam said, customer-service pep in her voice. She stood in the doorway, solidly blocking entry into the office.
“My name is Ezra, I’m for a consultation. I emailed you but you didn’t respond?” I shifted in place, suddenly feeling awkward.
“Oh! Yeah, I lost the password for the email ages ago. Sorry for the bad welcome, I get lots of people thinking I’m crazy or pulling a prank and harassing me.”
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 they’d been used heavily.
“So what can I help you with?” Sam asked again, more sincere this time.
“Thirty years ago, my brother was turned into a bird,” I started. I’d 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.
“I’ve almost given up on finding him, at this point,” I said. “But I saw your ad in the newspaper, and…here I am, I suppose.”
“Here you are,” 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. “Tell me everything.”
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. “I left him there. I ran and I didn’t look back.”
I had been to dozens of detectives and investigators over the years, once the police had dropped Hitch’s case. I’d 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. “Sometimes you have to leave people behind.”
I tightened her hold on Sam’s hand and drew it towards me, like I could make Sam listen if only I squeezed tight enough. “But that’s why I’m here. I don’t want to leave him behind.”
“Okay then. I’ll do my best to help you.” Sam agreed, finally. Then she paused, and said softly, “You know…I think I met your brother once. He might have saved my life. He’s certainly why I started in this business.”
“Really? What happened?” 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. Sam’s 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 didn’t 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 Sam’s 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.
“She’s a good kid, of course, but she’s a bit…” 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. She’s a bit strange, maybe. She’s a bit intense. She’s a bit abrasive. She’s 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.
“Your auntie got an abortion, you know,” her mother had said from her place on the couch, slurring her words. “Pill in the mail and then bam, no more baby.”
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.
“I love you, you know? But sometimes I wonder…” She settled back onto the couch. “Yeah. I wonder.”
She’d gotten up, then, back to the kitchen. She’d 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 didn’t 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 mother’s 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 wouldn’t 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.
“Hey, kid, get out of here,” 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.
“Trust me, you don’t want to run into Mr. Salty, the queen bitch himself,” the bird said.
“Mr. Salty?” 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. “Ah, don’t call him that. He’d turn you into a toad.”
The bird gestured with its head, towards the looming sand structure. “That’s his castle. He’s in there, probably scuttling along the ceiling or some shit because that’s the sort of weirdo he is.”
Sam nodded, encouraging. She pulled back her foot and lined up her shot, the way she’d 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.
“What’s your fucking problem?” it squawked. “I was trying to help you!”
“I don’t need the help of a demon,” Sam yelled, trying to remember the exorcism that her mama had taught her once, because her mama believed in being prepared for anything.
“I’m not a demon,” the bird said indignantly.
It was at about that moment that Sam gave up and just decided to roll with it.
“What are you, then?” Sam asked.
The bird shuffled its clawed feet, looking about as awkward as it could, given that it didn’t really have recognizable facial expressions. “Technically I’m a familiar of the Erlking, prince of the fae, but I prefer to be called Hitch.”
“You can’t blame me for assuming, though,” Sam said. “Ravens do tend to be associated with murder.”
“Hey, excuse you,” Hitch said. “I’m a rook, not a raven. Ravens are way bigger.”
“Sure,” 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. “Don’t be an idiot.”
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.
“Don’t,” Hitch warned, suddenly serious. “Just leave, kid, I mean it. I’ve seen too many people go down this road and you don’t want to be one of them.”
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 wasn’t attached to her body. It hadn’t 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.
“Well, I warned you,” Hitch said, defeated. “I did warn you.”
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 wasn’t 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 mother’s 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. “Help. Help me, daughter.”
“That’s not your mother,” 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.
“Okay,” Sam said, shaking all over. “Okay.”
She backed away from the sandcastle, not looking away.
“Failure,” her mother hissed as she stepped away. “I never wanted a daughter like you.”
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.
“I’ve been back here a hundred times. There’s nothing left,” 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.
“What are you doing?” I asked.
Sam shrugged. “Not much, really. I’m…I guess you could say that I’m knocking.”
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 didn’t open.
“We demand entrance, under your honor,” Sam yelled. There was a hard rush of wind, and I gripped Sam’s 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.
“I am here to bargain for the life of my brother,” 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. “I remember you. I almost got you, once.”
Sam glared at him but didn’t respond.
“You want your brother,” The Erlking said to me, and he almost sounded amused. “Then go get him.”
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.
“Holy shit,” 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.
“Better hurry up!” 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 Sam’s 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 didn’t 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 didn’t want to let me go, and they fought the whole way, but slowly, I made progress. I kept hold of Hitch’s 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.
“Interesting,” 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 he’d 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 he’d 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 didn’t 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 it’s in the depths of hell."
“Sure thing,” 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 I’d 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 he’d gotten in a back-alley shop as a teenager. He said that he’d 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, I’d gotten food poisoning because he’d 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 Hitch’s 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 didn’t 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 didn’t get to use it. “That’s…weird as hell.”
“Maybe the deadbolt broke, maybe they forgot to lock it, it doesn’t matter,” I hissed, checking our surroundings for other people again. “Just hurry up and get inside before someone calls the cops.”
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. “Look out the windows and tell me if anyone is coming.”
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.
“Well, well, well,” said a cultured voice with just an edge of snooty elitism. “What do we have here?”
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.
“Who the fuck are you?” Hitch said, inching towards a window.
He smiled, just a little bit, and his teeth shone in the dim light. “I am the Erlking.”
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. “You know, I’m not very fond of your yapping.”
He made an idle gesture and the sand wrapped around my ankles, tethering me in place.
“I yap all the time,” Hitch said. “Three-time olympic yapper, that’s me. Best to just let me go now and save yourself some trouble.”
The Erlking tapped a manicured nail against Hitch’s mouth, hard enough to hurt, judging by the way he flinched away. “But why would I ever let you go when I’ve gone to this much trouble to catch you and your sister? It’s so hard, these days, to find people that no one will miss.”
Hitch struggled against the sand, trying to escape and failing. “What do you want with us, then? You just said it, we’re nobody.”
“I’m fae, dear one,” the Erlking said. “I get my power from my followers. And I think that you two will make lovely additions to my flock.”
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 Erlking’s 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 Hitch’s 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 Erlking’s 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 Sam’s 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. I’d bought it as a fiftieth birthday gift for myself, and I took comfort in the heavy weight of it over my shoulders.
“Coming!” 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.
“Hi, I’m Sam, I specialize in supernatural consultation and hunting, how may I help you today?” Sam said, customer-service pep in her voice. She stood in the doorway, solidly blocking entry into the office.
“My name is Ezra, I’m for a consultation. I emailed you but you didn’t respond?” I shifted in place, suddenly feeling awkward.
“Oh! Yeah, I lost the password for the email ages ago. Sorry for the bad welcome, I get lots of people thinking I’m crazy or pulling a prank and harassing me.”
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 they’d been used heavily.
“So what can I help you with?” Sam asked again, more sincere this time.
“Thirty years ago, my brother was turned into a bird,” I started. I’d 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.
“I’ve almost given up on finding him, at this point,” I said. “But I saw your ad in the newspaper, and…here I am, I suppose.”
“Here you are,” 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. “Tell me everything.”
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. “I left him there. I ran and I didn’t look back.”
I had been to dozens of detectives and investigators over the years, once the police had dropped Hitch’s case. I’d 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. “Sometimes you have to leave people behind.”
I tightened her hold on Sam’s hand and drew it towards me, like I could make Sam listen if only I squeezed tight enough. “But that’s why I’m here. I don’t want to leave him behind.”
“Okay then. I’ll do my best to help you.” Sam agreed, finally. Then she paused, and said softly, “You know…I think I met your brother once. He might have saved my life. He’s certainly why I started in this business.”
“Really? What happened?” 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. Sam’s 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 didn’t 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 Sam’s 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.
“She’s a good kid, of course, but she’s a bit…” 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. She’s a bit strange, maybe. She’s a bit intense. She’s a bit abrasive. She’s 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.
“Your auntie got an abortion, you know,” her mother had said from her place on the couch, slurring her words. “Pill in the mail and then bam, no more baby.”
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.
“I love you, you know? But sometimes I wonder…” She settled back onto the couch. “Yeah. I wonder.”
She’d gotten up, then, back to the kitchen. She’d 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 didn’t 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 mother’s 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 wouldn’t 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.
“Hey, kid, get out of here,” 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.
“Trust me, you don’t want to run into Mr. Salty, the queen bitch himself,” the bird said.
“Mr. Salty?” 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. “Ah, don’t call him that. He’d turn you into a toad.”
The bird gestured with its head, towards the looming sand structure. “That’s his castle. He’s in there, probably scuttling along the ceiling or some shit because that’s the sort of weirdo he is.”
Sam nodded, encouraging. She pulled back her foot and lined up her shot, the way she’d 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.
“What’s your fucking problem?” it squawked. “I was trying to help you!”
“I don’t need the help of a demon,” Sam yelled, trying to remember the exorcism that her mama had taught her once, because her mama believed in being prepared for anything.
“I’m not a demon,” the bird said indignantly.
It was at about that moment that Sam gave up and just decided to roll with it.
“What are you, then?” Sam asked.
The bird shuffled its clawed feet, looking about as awkward as it could, given that it didn’t really have recognizable facial expressions. “Technically I’m a familiar of the Erlking, prince of the fae, but I prefer to be called Hitch.”
“You can’t blame me for assuming, though,” Sam said. “Ravens do tend to be associated with murder.”
“Hey, excuse you,” Hitch said. “I’m a rook, not a raven. Ravens are way bigger.”
“Sure,” 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. “Don’t be an idiot.”
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.
“Don’t,” Hitch warned, suddenly serious. “Just leave, kid, I mean it. I’ve seen too many people go down this road and you don’t want to be one of them.”
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 wasn’t attached to her body. It hadn’t 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.
“Well, I warned you,” Hitch said, defeated. “I did warn you.”
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 wasn’t 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 mother’s 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. “Help. Help me, daughter.”
“That’s not your mother,” 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.
“Okay,” Sam said, shaking all over. “Okay.”
She backed away from the sandcastle, not looking away.
“Failure,” her mother hissed as she stepped away. “I never wanted a daughter like you.”
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.
“I’ve been back here a hundred times. There’s nothing left,” 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.
“What are you doing?” I asked.
Sam shrugged. “Not much, really. I’m…I guess you could say that I’m knocking.”
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 didn’t open.
“We demand entrance, under your honor,” Sam yelled. There was a hard rush of wind, and I gripped Sam’s 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.
“I am here to bargain for the life of my brother,” 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. “I remember you. I almost got you, once.”
Sam glared at him but didn’t respond.
“You want your brother,” The Erlking said to me, and he almost sounded amused. “Then go get him.”
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.
“Holy shit,” 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.
“Better hurry up!” 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 Sam’s 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 didn’t 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 didn’t want to let me go, and they fought the whole way, but slowly, I made progress. I kept hold of Hitch’s 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.
“Interesting,” 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 he’d 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 he’d 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 didn’t 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 07:40 GuiltlessMaple Best Car Compasses
 | submitted by GuiltlessMaple to u/GuiltlessMaple [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/kw3bst30mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eebc8e209771cdafca3c374e25afc201a3033cc5 Whether you're an avid adventurer, a regular road tripper or just someone who likes to be prepared for anything, a car compass can be an invaluable addition to your dashboard. Our Car Compasses roundup is here to help you navigate through the vast array of options available, guiding you towards the perfect compass for your needs. Keep reading to discover the best Car Compasses that won't leave you guessing in which direction to turn. At its core, our review compares and contrasts the functionality, design, and ease of use of various car compasses. We've evaluated each product based on its ability to perform accurately and reliably, all while staying user-friendly and visually appealing. Our aim is to provide you with comprehensive information that simplifies your decision-making process, enabling you to confidently choose the ideal car compass for your vehicle. So, embark on this journey with us and let us guide you towards the perfect compass to accompany you on your every drive. The Top 11 Best Car Compasses
Reviews🔗Mini Car Ball Compass with Accurate Pointinghttps://preview.redd.it/qflclmt0mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=828b18285b6ea1070354b135acab3d38efbb01df As someone who's always on the road, I can't tell you how often I've needed a reliable compass to guide me. The KANPAS V28 Mini Automotive Dashboard Car Ball Compass has been a game-changer for me. It's no liquid leaking housing design gives me peace of mind knowing it won't fail in harsh conditions. Plus, its shockproof and waterproof features make it perfect for off-road adventures. One of the standout features of this compass is how it reads - opposite to traditional pointers which can sometimes be confusing. It's straightforward to use and even has an interesting installation process that involves tearing off double-sided tape. However, there's a special reminder with this compass: ensure you confirm the correct direction outside the car before finding a suitable location inside the car. Also, avoid iron and magnetic items in the car from affecting the ball compass reading. Despite these small caveats, the KANPAS V28 Mini Automotive Dashboard Car Ball Compass is definitely worth considering for your navigation needs. 🔗Illuminated Commander Compass with Automatic MVAhttps://preview.redd.it/9591fh21mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2a3c4c87c4f653d8436d2b0f953ccb3da550a81c Bell Automotive's Illuminated Commander Compass is my go-to companion when navigating through the night. The automatic Magnetic Variation Adjustment (MVA) keeps me on track, with an easy mount on either the dash or windshield. Its light-up feature is especially useful during those late-night drives when the sun has tucked itself in for the night. While the compass is generally reliable and easy to use, I had a couple of hiccups during its installation. The suction cups that came with it didn't work quite as expected on my vehicle's vinyl dash, so I had to resort to a bit of glue to secure it properly. Additionally, the light button seemed a tad finicky and occasionally stopped working for no apparent reason. However, I appreciated the fact that I could still see the readings even when the light was off. Despite some minor issues, the overall experience with Bell Automotive's Illuminated Commander Compass has been quite positive. Its ability to keep me headed in the right direction, especially during nighttime adventures, has been a real lifesaver. If you're in the market for a reliable compass to navigate your drive, this one is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to get creative with the installation process to ensure optimal performance in your specific vehicle. 🔗Custom Accessories Low Profile LED Compasshttps://preview.redd.it/is8x7ak1mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b8d991b39bb3dbb540243aa9eeb809a35451b86d I recently purchased a Low Profile Lighted LED Compass for my car, and while I had high hopes, my experience wasn't quite as smooth as I'd hoped. The best part of this compass is undoubtedly its sleek and low-profile design; it looks far more expensive than it actually is. Plus, the lighted dial makes reading the compass at night a breeze. However, the compass's primary function - accurately pointing to the north - just doesn't seem to work for me. Regardless of where I place it in my car or what direction I'm driving, the compass consistently points to the east or northwest, which makes it practically useless. I wouldn't necessarily say that this compass is a waste of money, as it does have a cool backlit display and a compact design. But if you're looking for an actual functional compass to use while driving, I'd recommend looking elsewhere. For $8, I guess you get what you pay for, but it's disappointing that something as simple as a compass can't handle a little interference from my car's electronics. 🔗Personalized Dash Compass for Your Car Journeyshttps://preview.redd.it/6qa7yup1mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=65b526c209e866f39de3e6cd272c60d1fffa7efc I recently added the Victor Products Inc Suction Cup Mini Compass to my car and it's been a game-changer for me on my roughest routes. The free-floating ball and liquid damping ensure quick settling, making navigation a breeze even when the road ahead gets bumpy. I love how the large letters make for easy reading at any angle, and the suction cup attaches easily to my windshield for quick access. The mini-size and suction cup feature make this compass incredibly portable, making it perfect for camping trips or weekend getaways. I also appreciate the sleek black color that matches my car's interior perfectly. However, I did have one issue: the compass tends to stick on one direction, which can be a bit frustrating at times. Overall, I'm happy with the Victor Products Inc Suction Cup Mini Compass and would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable navigation tool for their car. The quick settling and easy-reading features make it stand out from the rest, despite a minor problem we encountered with the compass direction. 🔗Dashboard Compass Ball for Car or Boathttps://preview.redd.it/4nnj2272mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=385ea30f48a98b7041777d06643edee75b966554 I recently got my hands on the RINGGLO Car Compass Ball and I must say, it's been a game-changer for my navigation needs while driving. The high-quality ABS plastic material not only makes it sturdy but also gives it a sleek look that complements my car's interior perfectly. One of the things I love about this compass is its wide applicability - not just for cars, but also for boats, trucks, and caravans. Its easy-to-use design and self-adhesive mount make it incredibly convenient to install wherever you need it most. Plus, its compact size means it doesn't take up much space on your dashboard. However, there are a few cons to note as well. Firstly, the compass requires a horizontal position to ensure accurate readings, which might be challenging when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Secondly, it's advisable to keep the compass away from magnetic sources to maintain its accuracy, which could be inconvenient at times. In conclusion, the RINGGLO Car Compass Ball is an excellent tool for navigation, especially if you're looking for something stylish and functional. Its wide applicability and easy installation make it a valuable addition to any vehicle. Just remember to follow the guidelines provided to get the most out of this innovative compass. 🔗SOL Lensatic Compass with Flip-Up Lenshttps://preview.redd.it/yqz2krf2mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1f20ee1bcf25afb720fc2049f0146160876d57da I recently had the chance to test out the Sol Lensatic Compass, and I must say, it's a game-changer when it comes to navigating on outdoor trips. The compass is incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for backpacking and hiking adventures. The lensatic design allows for precise readings, and the large, luminous directional letters make it easy to read even in low light conditions. One of the standout features of this compass is its durability. The sturdy synthetic housing provides ample protection for the compass, while also making it easy to grip and maneuver. Additionally, the included cover acts as an extra layer of protection and helps make sighting easier. However, there are a few cons to consider. The magnetic floating compass can be somewhat difficult to ensure it's pointing north due to the thick liquid inside. Additionally, the grip on the heading dial is not as effective as it could be, making it a bit challenging to rotate. Overall, the SOL Lensatic Compass is an excellent navigation tool for those who love the outdoors. Its lightweight design and precise readings make it perfect for hiking, camping, and hunting adventures. While there are a few minor drawbacks, these are easily outweighed by its many positive features. 🔗Illuminated Compass for Automobileshttps://preview.redd.it/1f5pfvt2mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9f9101f2a9909ef3b63505f783b3f1ec117f84b6 I recently got the chance to try out Bell Automotive's Lighted Compass and overall, it was quite an interesting experience. The mounting options were really user-friendly with suction cups for the windshield and adhesive tape for the dashboard, making it easy to install without causing any damage. One of the standout features was its unique disc-style floating dial and liquid damping, which proved incredibly useful in quickly settling the compass over bumpy roads. The display of eight directional points was also a definite plus, although I wish there was a way to illuminate the dial for night driving without having to hold the button down continuously. However, there are a few drawbacks that I experienced. First off, the compass struggled to provide accurate readings due to interference from the vehicle's metal elements, even when used outside the car. Additionally, the adhesive tape didn't hold up well in hot weather, causing the compass to lose its positioning. In conclusion, while the Bell Automotive Lighted Compass does have some interesting features, you might want to consider its inconsistencies before making a purchase. On the other hand, if you're primarily looking for a compass to use outside your car, or you drive a vehicle with minimal metal components, this compass might prove useful. 🔗Car Compass Ball Dashboard Mount (Black)https://preview.redd.it/hmeyr353mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9d1279411e54049aaaf500634c7eea3b5ebcd3c2 When I first bought the 2pcs Car Vehicle Compass Ball Dashboard Self Adhesive Mount Navigation, I was skeptical about its accuracy and usability. But after using it for a few trips, I must say it has become an essential tool for navigation. The smooth and brightly colored surface along with the automatic rotation feature make it a breeze to follow the direction. It's perfect for those who prefer a more traditional method of navigation and it certainly adds a touch of retro charm to my car. One downside is that the compass can be a little sensitive to magnetic fields, so I have to be careful about where I place it. Additionally, direct sunlight might affect its performance, so I usually keep it tucked away when I'm parked under the sun. Overall, this compass mount has greatly enhanced my driving experience with its clear readout, easy installation, and stylish design. It's a reliable and affordable tool that's a must-have for any vehicle. 🔗Durable Military Tritium Lensatic Compasshttps://preview.redd.it/dd5gsyi3mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a74ec1ddcf1c83641001a578ee54f23b7174b8a1 I recently got my hands on the Cammenga Official US Military Tritium Lensatic Compass Clam Pack 3HCS, and let me tell you, it's a game changer for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. As an avid camper and hiker, I've relied on GPS and other digital tools in the past, but there's just something about having a reliable, physical compass that you can trust in a pinch. This compass is built like a tank, with a sturdy metal housing that keeps it shockproof. It's also designed to withstand water, sand, and extreme temperatures, making it perfect for any adventure you can throw at it. One of my favorite features is the lens for magnification and the sighting wire for precise readings - these little details make all the difference when you're trying to navigate unfamiliar terrain. Now, let's talk about those dependable dial graduations. They have both mils and degrees for easy reading, and the mil-radians give you a high level of accuracy in your plotting and measuring. But the real star of the show is the tritium illumination, which provides you with a clear view of the compass in low light or darkness, without needing any external light sources. However, no product is perfect, and this compass does have some drawbacks. The belt clip on the carrying case is a bit flimsy, and it broke a few times during my tests. Additionally, the lens can be a bit difficult to focus, especially in low light conditions. Despite these minor issues, I wholeheartedly recommend the Cammenga Official US Military Tritium Lensatic Compass Clam Pack 3HCS to anyone who wants a reliable, accurate, and durable compass for their next outdoor adventure. Just make sure you keep an eye on that belt clip and bring along some spare batteries for your other electronic gear! 🔗Bell Suction Cup Mini Compact Car Compass - Blackhttps://preview.redd.it/vyx489u3mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=842db8e90d18a547c139fba240fe6a8e59c33672 I recently purchased the Bell Suction Cup Mini Compass and it's been an interesting addition to my vehicle. The compact design is perfect for mounting it on my windshield, and the free-floating ball and liquid damping help it settle quickly over bumpy roads. One thing I really appreciate about this compass is how easy it is to read. The large letters ensure that I can see the direction even when I'm not directly facing the compass. However, one downside is that the suction cup occasionally falls off if the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight. No big deal, though, as it's easy to reattach. Another standout feature of the Bell Suction Cup Mini Compass is its low cost. It may not be the most high-tech compass out there, but for the price, it works great. If you're looking for a simple, affordable solution to help you orient yourself while driving, this compass is definitely worth considering. 🔗Bell Automotive Digital Compass and Mirror Mounthttps://preview.redd.it/5mqps884mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=da01837cb5647888ed1357b4d553304ca50360dd I recently installed the Bell Automotive 22-1-29001-8 Digital Compass on my car's existing rear view mirror, and I've found it incredibly useful for long road trips. The device provides an effortless calibration process and efficiently displays 8 directional points without taking up much space on the mirror. One of my favorite features of this compass is its ability to connect with my car's touchscreen via a display light function. This has made navigation far simpler, especially during nighttime driving. However, I have experienced some difficulties with the compass occasionally, mainly regarding its readability in bright sunlight. Another drawback worth mentioning is the compass's accuracy issues, which seem to arise more frequently when installed in certain vehicles, such as my friend's Toyota Corolla. Fortunately, in my car, the compass has been working perfectly fine and has even helped me avoid getting lost on several occasions. In summary, if you're looking for a compact and feature-rich digital compass that doesn't obstruct your view while driving, the Bell Automotive 22-1-29001-8 Digital Compass might be worth considering. Just remember to consider its readability and accuracy limitations before making a purchase decision. Buyer's GuideNone https://preview.redd.it/9bs003u4mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1b9aa8cca183183215931f6fc9101f5ae07a1e3 FAQWhat are the benefits of using a car compass?A car compass helps drivers navigate unfamiliar routes, provides an alternative to GPS systems, and offers a reliable backup navigation solution in case of GPS malfunction or power issues. https://preview.redd.it/b08tpf35mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e41bcf45c347517124e4a5a3cdc86dbaf6067264 How do car compasses work?Car compasses work by detecting the Earth's magnetic field, allowing them to determine direction accurately. They are typically mounted on the dashboard or windshield, providing easy visibility and accessible navigation information.What are the different types of car compasses?
https://preview.redd.it/2kijv1i5mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b72c35a44dbe47bce6c72c588ee562bf1b512722 Are car compasses accurate?Yes, car compasses are generally accurate if installed and used correctly. Factors that can affect accuracy include magnetic interference from other devices and improper installation, among others.How do I install a car compass?
https://preview.redd.it/lc8r3v06mb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d305526cb286db8a9b77bab4361024773e234f9 How do I maintain and store my car compass?To maintain a car compass, avoid exposing it to strong magnetic fields and store it in a secure, magnetic-free location when not in use. Regularly clean the compass with a soft, dry cloth and check for proper functionality.Can I use a car compass in conjunction with a GPS system?Yes, a car compass can be used as a backup navigation solution alongside a GPS system. Some digital compasses even offer compatibility with GPS devices, providing complementary navigation information.How do I know if I need a car compass?You may need a car compass if you frequently drive in areas with limited GPS signal, when traveling off-road or to remote locations, or to provide an extra layer of navigation security in case your GPS system fails.What features should I look for in a car compass?
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2024.05.19 06:47 GuiltlessMaple Best Canon Underwater Camera Case
 | submitted by GuiltlessMaple to u/GuiltlessMaple [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/n8ppu0plcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b7417dcb4b79a208a94ccfe236a5a112ac9fa7c9 Canon Underwater Camera Cases are perfect for capturing those unforgettable underwater moments. Our article presents a comprehensive roundup of the best models, highlighting their features, durability, and ease of use. Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, this review will help you choose the right Canon Underwater Camera Case to protect your camera and enhance your underwater photography experience. In this article, we'll delve into the top Canon Underwater Camera Case models in the market, discussing their unique selling points and how they cater to different photography needs. Our comparison will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and ensure your camera remains safe on your next underwater adventure. The Top 6 Best Canon Underwater Camera Case
Reviews🔗Canon WP-DC40 Underwater Camera Casehttps://preview.redd.it/ipp2neylcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c4696570283ff02b843456f353aea45e45ff8b7 I recently took my Canon camera on a snorkeling trip to Hawaii, and it was nothing short of amazing. With the Canon Waterproof Underwater Case WP-DC40 (S60/70), I didn't have to worry about water damage and could take stunning photos at depths up to 130 feet. The case's intuitive controls allowed me to capture every breathtaking underwater moment with ease. One of the standout features was the accessibility of all camera buttons and knobs. This made it incredibly user-friendly, even for someone like me who isn't a professional photographer. The seal also proved to be reliable, with no leaks even during my 102-foot dives. On the downside, the sunlight through the water occasionally made it difficult to see the screen, but it wasn't a deal-breaker. Overall, the Canon Waterproof Underwater Case was a fantastic addition to my camera gear, and I can't imagine traveling without it now. 🔗Underwater Case for Canon PowerShot SD700 IShttps://preview.redd.it/16fwlqfmcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2115cf11c0fdd7b2ee66827f503942253091c91d As a photography enthusiast, I recently discovered the Canon WP-DC5 Waterproof Case. I've been taking my Canon PowerShot SD700 IS digital camera everywhere, and this underwater case has been a lifesaver. The case is designed to protect my camera from sea water and sand, which means I don't have to worry about damaging it while exploring the underwater world. Its reliability and ease of use are truly impressive. Using it underwater was a breeze, and it opened up new shooting possibilities that I never thought were possible with a regular camera case. With its help, I've been able to capture stunning underwater photos at depths of up to 130 feet, even on my first dive. The highlights of this product are its ability to protect your camera from harsh underwater environments and its ease of use. However, it's essential to take care of the lens port and keep the camera open when not in use to maintain the seals. Additionally, some users might experience issues with water droplets on the port affecting their shots. Overall, the Canon WP-DC5 Waterproof Case has been a game-changer for me. It has allowed me to explore the underwater world without worrying about damaging my camera. Its reliability, ease of use, and ability to capture high-quality underwater photos make it a must-have for any adventurous photographer. 🔗Waterproof Case for Canon Digital Camerashttps://preview.redd.it/ge8252vmcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=505b12b5add8e1ca5fc24f692485d07e192b87ff I recently had the chance to use Canon's WP-DC27 Waterproof Case for my underwater photography explorations. As an avid scuba diver and photographer, finding a reliable case to protect my camera was crucial. The Canon WP-DC27 didn't disappoint. It provides excellent protection against water, sand, and dust, making it accessible for photographers who want to capture dynamic shots in various environments. The ease of use was one of the highlights of this product. Its compact design and secure seals made the camera easy to load and unload, even with my hands covered in scuba diving gloves. The clear front panel allowed for easy access to the camera's controls, such as adjusting white balance and toggling shooting modes. On the downside, I did find that the lens port wasn't threaded to accept additional lenses like macro or wide-angle options. While this isn't a deal-breaker for basic scuba diving and snorkeling, it may be disappointing for photographers looking for more flexibility in their shots. In conclusion, Canon's WP-DC27 Waterproof Case is a reliable and user-friendly option for photographers on-the-go and exploring different terrains. Its durability and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to capture their adventures to the fullest without worrying about their camera's wellbeing. 🔗Ikelite Underwater Housing for Canon PowerShot G9/G9 Mark IIhttps://preview.redd.it/udytcu6ncb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d676d4ebca17661e72c11c73701613601770014 I recently got my hands on the Ikelite Underwater Action Housing for my Canon PowerShot G9 X camera, and let me tell you, it has been a game-changer for my underwater photography adventures! With its ability to capture high-quality video and still images at depths up to 200 feet beneath the surface, this compact, lightweight housing has made exploring the depths of oceans and lakes a whole new experience. One of the standout features of this action housing is its scratch-resistant glass lens port. This ensures full use of the camera's zoom range without any vignetting, giving me super-clear shots even in the most challenging underwater environments. Additionally, the front of the port accepts press-on color-correcting filters and is 67mm threaded for attaching optional accessories, which further enhances the versatility of my underwater photography setup. Another feature I absolutely love is the custom ABS-PC blend housing with acetyl controls. This material provides strength, UV protection, and fundamentally corrosion-free performance, making it perfect for withstanding the harsh underwater conditions. Plus, its light gray/white color on the front, sides, top, and bottom contrasts with the clear back, making it easy for me to monitor the O-ring seal and rear camera controls at a glance. The built-in, flat, optical glass lens port with a 3-inch diameter is another highlight. It allows attachment of optional, accessory wide-angle and macro conversion lenses as well as color-correction filters, giving me the flexibility to capture the perfect shot in any underwater environment. However, there is one downside to this action housing – it lacks a strobe connector and access to the camera's flash. While quality photos are still possible with an optional constant light source at any depth or with available sunlight down to about 60 feet, I would have appreciated more connectivity options for even greater creative control. In summary, the Ikelite Underwater Action Housing has made exploring the depths of oceans and lakes an unforgettable experience. Its scratch-resistant glass lens port, custom ABS-PC blend housing, and compatibility with various accessories make it a top choice for avid underwater photographers. While it may not have the most advanced features and lacks a strobe connector, the overall quality and performance are worth considering for anyone looking to take their underwater photography skills to the next level. 🔗Ikelite Underwater Housing for Canon EOS M10 (200 ft Depth Rating)https://preview.redd.it/xfhi7alncb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a65c50db977323c6d7cfbc0941dccf4d2ba590cf Ikelite's Underwater Housing for Canon EOS M10 is like a trusty, waterproof companion for my beloved camera. It's more than capable of keeping up with my adventurous spirit, offering a depth rating of 200 ft (60m). The controls on this housing are impressive, allowing me to access all my camera's functions except for the Mobile Device Connection button. A slight negative buoyancy in fresh water means I don't have to worry about it floating away. But it's not all perfect. The actual buoyancy can vary depending on the lens and port I choose, which can be a bit of a pain. Also, the 1/4-20 thread tray mounting with 3-inch (76mm) spacing is a bit limiting if you're looking for more versatile mounting options. All in all, Ikelite's housing has been a game-changer for my underwater photography adventures. It's made capturing those magical moments much easier and more enjoyable. 🔗Nauticam Canon EOS R5 Underwater Housinghttps://preview.redd.it/50jo9pzncb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=02d3c552bf4f6ac647e4791434169055702b8906 I recently had the opportunity to use the Nauticam Underwater Housing for my Canon EOS R5. This housing follows Nauticam's innovative approach, offering compatibility with both EOS R lenses and native RF optics using an adapter. The dimensions of the housing are 357mm x 200mm x 161mm (W x H x D), and it has a depth rating of 100m. It weighs 3.5kg in air, but becomes slightly lighter at -0.5kg in water when including the camera body and battery. The port area is of the N120 type. One of the standout features for me was its portability. Even with my Canon EOS R5 securely tucked inside, the housing felt sturdy and reliable. It's evident that a lot of thought has gone into the design, making it incredibly user-friendly. However, there were a few cons to consider. While the housing is generally well-built, the included torque screws for the port attachment feel a bit delicate. Additionally, the integrated vacuum system, though a useful feature, can be a bit sensitive to pressure changes and occasionally needs resetting. Overall, the Nauticam Underwater Housing for the Canon EOS R5 provided excellent protection and control for my camera while underwater. Despite some minor drawbacks, I would recommend this product to any Canon users looking to take their photography skills below the surface. Buyer's GuideChoosing the right Canon underwater camera case can be essential, whether for professional photography or casual photography while exploring the depths. This guide will inform you of the crucial factors to consider prior to making your decision in order to equip you with the ideal underwater camera case for your needs.1. Type of Underwater ActivityUnderwater housings are designed to cater to different activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, or surf photography. For example, some cases are suitable for deep-sea diving whilst others could be for surface water sports. Hence, it is essential to consider the type of underwater photography you're likely to engage in for you to choose the appropriate housing. https://preview.redd.it/sh75v0focb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7fad980e157c19999435345c4a1039d7e6ebb8da 2. Depth RatingThe depth rating of a case indicates the maximum depth it can withstand without water seeping into the camera. This detail is critical as it ensures the camera stays protected at your desired depth. If you're primarily shooting above water while surfboard, a low depth rating would suffice. However, for professional divers, a high depth rating camera case would be more appropriate.3. Lens CompatibilityLens compatibility could restrict your choices. Some underwater camera cases are compatible with wide-angle lenses, others with standard lenses. Depending on your photography requirements, you should choose a case that fits your preferred lens.4. Ease of UseUnderwater photography often involves quick action. Hence, it’s necessary to select a model that allows simple and swift movement, particularly during those crucial underwater moments. Features such as ergonomic handling, easy-to-use buttons, and controls would be beneficial for smooth photography sessions. https://preview.redd.it/znofdi3pcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=89b5db13a784c1cddccb61eb14123707c9e6a1bc 5. DurabilityThe durability of the underwater camera cases is another crucial factor to consider. High-quality polycarbonate materials or aluminum bodies are known for their robustness and long-lasting performance. Ensure you select a case designed to withstand the rigors of your photography activities.6. Price RangeUnderwater camera cases can vary significantly in price. The cost is often dependent on factors such as complexity of design, type of materials used, and additional features. While it’s vital to invest in a high-quality case, ensure that you only pay for what you need by prioritizing the features that are most essential for your photography style.7. Brand ReputationThe credibility and reputation of the brand can be a strong indication of the quality and reliability of the product. Make sure to choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality waterproof camera housings.By taking these considerations into account, you will be well-equipped to choose the ideal Canon underwater camera case to suit your specific photography needs. https://preview.redd.it/dx2tmkbpcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=13ba90b00783e3d9da466fbcda8858da254fa311 FAQHow deep can a Canon underwater camera case go?The depth rating varies depending on the specific model and brand of the underwater camera case. Generally, Canon underwater camera cases can withstand depths between 150 to 200 feet (approximately 45 to 60 meters). It's crucial to check the product's specifications to ensure it meets your needs for the depth of water you plan to explore.Which Canon camera models are compatible with these underwater camera cases?Almost all the Canon PowerShot series and some EOS DSLR and mirrorless models are compatible with Canon underwater camera cases. Popular models include the PowerShot G7 X Mark III, G5 X Mark II, SX70 HS, and the EOS 90D. Please refer to Canon's compatibility chart for the specific model you own or consider purchasing. https://preview.redd.it/8y90bswpcb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f80cdaea7c4679965ed8ae114021c09e180ef8fb Can I use my Canon camera in a generic underwater camera case?While it is possible to use a generic underwater camera case for some Canon camera models, it is highly recommended to use the original Canon underwater camera case designed specifically for your camera model. This ensures proper fit, functionality, and protection for your camera, ultimately extending its lifespan.How do I clean and maintain my Canon underwater camera case?After each use, rinse the case thoroughly with clean water and thoroughly dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using any solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep the seals and O-ring clean and free of sand or grit. Lubricate the O-ring with a silicone lubricant occasionally to ensure a tight seal. Regularly inspect the case for wear, damage, or accumulated debris.What is the best setting to use on my Canon camera when shooting underwater?Using the underwater shooting mode (typically designated as "UW" or "sea") is often recommended, as it optimizes the camera settings for shooting in low-light, minimizing backscattering, and increasing color reproduction. Additionally, ensure that you shoot in RAW format to have greater flexibility in post-processing.How do I ensure a leak-free seal on my Canon underwater camera case?Before each dive or use, inspect the seals and O-ring for any wear, damage, or accumulated debris. Clean the seals and O-ring thoroughly and apply a silicone lubricant. Secure all latches on the case, ensuring they are fully engaged. Perform a "vacuum test" by submerging the case in a shallow pool or tub of water, and inspect for any visible water or bubbles after about 10 minutes. If everything is dry, your case is properly sealed. Always double-check the seals and latches before every dive or use.What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless Canon underwater camera case?The primary differences between a DSLR and mirrorless Canon underwater camera case are their size, weight, and controls. DSLR underwater camera cases tend to be larger and heavier, provide more physical controls, and accommodate interchangeable lenses, offering more flexibility for advanced photographers. In contrast, mirrorless underwater camera cases are more compact, have fewer physical controls, but often yield higher image quality relative to the camera size.How do I prevent fogging inside the Canon underwater camera case?Before diving or shooting underwater, put a silica gel desiccant packet or anti-fog gel on the inside of the lens port. This helps absorb any moisture and prevent fogging. Make sure the camera, lens, and case are at the same temperature as your surroundings before sealing the case. When changing lenses, ensure the camera is dry and free of any moisture. Avoid touching any lens elements or the interior lens port, as body oils and moisture can cause fogging.Can I use third-party strobes with my Canon underwater camera case?Yes, you can use third-party strobes with some Canon underwater camera cases. However, compatibility depends on the model of your case and the specific strobe. Some strobes may require a dedicated adapter or sync cord to connect to the camera, so it's essential to consult the manufacturer's guidelines for proper installation and compatibility.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 06:11 Appropriate_Achoo Well when you put it that way…
 | You actually have a much higher chance making money from a Ponzi scheme. (It’s the last 10-20% of investors that lose everything when the ponzi falls apart.) submitted by Appropriate_Achoo to antiMLM [link] [comments] With water machine MLMs, you need to sell a whole lot of expensive packages before you come close to covering the $15,000+ you’ve spent on water machines and supplements that your “mentor” told you to buy to get started. Remember everyone, the Income Disclosures don’t lie. Don’t let an old friend, family member, or some wacka-do on FB pull you into the quick sand that they jumped feet first in to. You need to let this be an expensive life lesson for them. |
2024.05.19 06:00 gamagloblin I need help cleaning.
Every year I cover my pool and trap much of the leaves, needles, and debris in the cover and pull it off in the spring. The small needles from the fir trees, frogs, bugs and everything else gets through no matter what cover I use (rural location). I have a cartridge filter and I literally have 6 cartridges that I rotate when I vacuum in the spring because they get clogged in minutes and I have to take apart my filter and put a clean filter in. It runs well for a couple minutes and then I have to clean the skimmer, pump filter and swap the cartridge for a clean one. I’ve tried a sand filter and it clogged quickly also. There has to be a better way. It takes me days to get the pool clean because there is so much debris at the bottom. Please help me find a better way. What can I do better?
submitted by gamagloblin to AboveGroundPools [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 05:53 yippye wtt NA
2024.05.19 02:29 _Triple_ [STORE] 900+ KNIVES/GLOVES/SKINS, 100.000$+ INVENTORY. BFK Lore, Gloves Amphibious, Skeleton Fade, Bowie Emerald, BFK Auto, Gloves MF, Talon Doppler, Gloves POW, Bayo Tiger, Gut Sapphire, Stiletto MF, M9 Ultra, Ursus Doppler, Flip Doppler, M9 Stained, Nomad CW, Paracord CW, AK-47 X-Ray & A Lot More
Everything in my inventory is up for trade. The most valuable items are listed here, the rest you can find in My Inventory
Feel free to Add Me or even better send a Trade Offer. Open for any suggestions: upgrades, downgrades / knives, gloves, skins / stickers, patterns, floats.
All Buyouts are listed in cash value.
KNIVES
★ Butterfly Knife Lore (Factory New), B/O: $7194.77
★ Butterfly Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2025.74
⎯★ M9 Bayonet Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $557.87
★ M9 Bayonet Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $529.41
★ M9 Bayonet Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $465.39
⎯★ Talon Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $1295.27
★ Bayonet Tiger Tooth (Minimal Wear), B/O: $746.28
★ Karambit Bright Water (Field-Tested), B/O: $688.15
⎯★ Flip Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $547.93
★ Flip Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $476.69
★ Flip Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $278.18
★ Flip Knife Black Laminate (Well-Worn), B/O: $258.83
★ Flip Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $181.64
⎯★ Stiletto Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $686.04
★ Stiletto Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $665.41
★ Stiletto Knife, B/O: $601.39
★ Stiletto Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $418.25
★ Stiletto Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $227.80
★ Stiletto Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.96
★ Stiletto Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $192.79
⎯★ Nomad Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $518.11
★ Nomad Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $169.78
★ Nomad Knife Forest DDPAT (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $166.88
★ StatTrak™ Nomad Knife Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $335.79
⎯★ Skeleton Knife Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $442.05
★ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Minimal Wear), B/O: $426.24
★ Skeleton Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $314.03
★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2361.28
★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $376.53
⎯★ Ursus Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $557.12
★ Ursus Knife, B/O: $471.42
★ Ursus Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $212.37
★ Ursus Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $187.66
★ Ursus Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $178.18
★ Ursus Knife Ultraviolet (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $155.13
★ Ursus Knife Boreal Forest (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.26
⎯★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Minimal Wear), B/O: $204.83
★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Field-Tested), B/O: $184.50
★ StatTrak™ Huntsman Knife Lore (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $224.11
⎯★ Bowie Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $2142.02
★ Bowie Knife, B/O: $230.44
★ Bowie Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $209.20
★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.51
★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03
⎯★ Falchion Knife Night (Field-Tested), B/O: $132.54
★ Falchion Knife Urban Masked (Well-Worn), B/O: $112.81
★ Falchion Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $108.81
★ Falchion Knife Forest DDPAT (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.82
★ Falchion Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.46
★ StatTrak™ Falchion Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $143.08
⎯★ Paracord Knife Crimson Web (Minimal Wear), B/O: $486.48
★ Paracord Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $163.12
⎯★ Survival Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $138.26
★ Survival Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03
⎯★ Gut Knife Sapphire (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1127.79
★ Gut Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $286.17
★ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $246.55
★ Gut Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $240.77
★ Gut Knife, B/O: $210.49
★ Gut Knife Lore (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.22
★ Gut Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $151.51
★ Gut Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.94
★ Gut Knife Rust Coat (Well-Worn), B/O: $118.99
★ Gut Knife Boreal Forest (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.80
★ StatTrak™ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $237.96
⎯★ Shadow Daggers Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $264.92
★ Shadow Daggers Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $253.03
★ Shadow Daggers Tiger Tooth (Factory New), B/O: $237.22
★ Shadow Daggers Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.40
★ Shadow Daggers Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $144.42
★ Shadow Daggers Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $105.20
★ StatTrak™ Shadow Daggers Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $150.46
⎯★ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $365.99
★ Navaja Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $228.93
★ Navaja Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $227.43
★ Navaja Knife Slaughter (Factory New), B/O: $209.06
★ Navaja Knife, B/O: $203.16
★ Navaja Knife Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $132.57
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $121.69
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.95
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $100.41
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $369.01
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $109.95
GLOVES
★ Sport Gloves Amphibious (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2394.67
★ Sport Gloves Omega (Well-Worn), B/O: $572.33
★ Sport Gloves Bronze Morph (Minimal Wear), B/O: $338.88
★ Sport Gloves Big Game (Field-Tested), B/O: $323.66
⎯★ Specialist Gloves Marble Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1652.07
★ Specialist Gloves Tiger Strike (Field-Tested), B/O: $599.14
★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Web (Well-Worn), B/O: $231.57
★ Specialist Gloves Buckshot (Minimal Wear), B/O: $126.21
⎯★ Moto Gloves POW! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $996.99
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Field-Tested), B/O: $383.31
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Well-Worn), B/O: $276.00
★ Moto Gloves Turtle (Field-Tested), B/O: $180.28
⎯★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $502.29
★ Hand Wraps Giraffe (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.73
★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $178.32
⎯★ Driver Gloves Queen Jaguar (Minimal Wear), B/O: $181.01
★ Driver Gloves Rezan the Red (Field-Tested), B/O: $101.66
⎯★ Broken Fang Gloves Jade (Field-Tested), B/O: $127.88
★ Broken Fang Gloves Needle Point (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.55
⎯★ Bloodhound Gloves Guerrilla (Minimal Wear), B/O: $127.94
★ Hydra Gloves Case Hardened (Field-Tested), B/O: $102.55
WEAPONS
AK-47 X-Ray (Well-Worn), B/O: $478.95
AUG Hot Rod (Factory New), B/O: $425.83
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Hyper Beast (Factory New), B/O: $413.95
M4A4 Daybreak (Factory New), B/O: $309.51
StatTrak™ AK-47 Aquamarine Revenge (Factory New), B/O: $305.43
AK-47 Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $196.38
StatTrak™ M4A4 Temukau (Minimal Wear), B/O: $174.64
P90 Run and Hide (Field-Tested), B/O: $167.03
AWP Asiimov (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.33
Souvenir SSG 08 Death Strike (Minimal Wear), B/O: $140.00
M4A1-S Printstream (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.70
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Golden Coil (Field-Tested), B/O: $117.48
AWP Asiimov (Well-Worn), B/O: $115.97
StatTrak™ Desert Eagle Printstream (Minimal Wear), B/O: $112.96
StatTrak™ AK-47 Asiimov (Minimal Wear), B/O: $110.85
Souvenir M4A1-S Master Piece (Well-Worn), B/O: $102.42
AK-47 Bloodsport (Minimal Wear), B/O: $100.53
Trade Offer Link - Steam Profile Link - My Inventory
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2024.05.19 02:21 Livid_Chart4227 Art Deco dresser
 | I picked this up for free on Facebook. Early 1900s waterfall style dresser. submitted by Livid_Chart4227 to FurnitureFlip [link] [comments] While it looks bad, a quick wipe of the top with mineral spirits revealed the walnut veneer top was just superficial scratches in the clearcoat. Used sanders with 150 grit to carefully get the clear coat off. Then 220 in a finish sander. Had to use stripper on the beading on the frame. Stained the piece a dark walnut ans sprayed 3 coats of lacquer. I made a dark toning lacquer for the frame. Drawer boxes needed repairs then sanding and a coat of Howard's Feed and Wax. The handles were refinished with antique gold spay paint and clear lacquer. First pic is what it looked like when I got it. Second is after wiping with mineral spirits where I could see the potential. |
2024.05.19 01:46 xSaturnityx Picked up a 1986 Yamaha yx600 for like $900, is it even worth it to keep trying to fix it?
Sorry for the long post, there's a TLDR at the bottom, just thought i'd put all the details out there.
The bike is a 1986 Yamaha YX600, a slightly odd 'mutt' bike. Bought it a bit ago. It ran when stored, but it was stored for a good while. The dude was super cool so I trusted it, and hey it was $900 for basically a complete bike+helmet+original owners manual+$150 motorcycle ramp, and just a random box of extra small parts.
I bought an original ECU to just keep it simple, I bought original gauge cluster (unfortunately don't remember entirely since it's been a while, but a modern aftermarket gauge cluster would not work, so I had to go with OEM.) Thankfully Ebay was a savior, there were not many parts for this bike and I should have done more research, but fortunately I found one seller that exclusively sells a bunch of parts for it.
After all was said and done it ran, just not very well. Then one day I noticed it was kinda running hot, I somewhat chocked it up to just being super hot outisde, but then noticed some smoke coming out of the crankcase after parking somewhere to check. It was definitely having trouble. Then it just simply wouldn't start up. Got super worried but after letting it cool down for an hour it was alright to start, and just got home quickly.
I went out after a bit and started it to check what was going on, I had a temp gun and noticed cylinder 3 was sitting at a cool 600-700 degrees, while the others were like 300-350. Go figure, it's a 4 cylinder bike with a 4-carb rack. One for each cylinder because... Dunno. The entire thing is such a PITA to take apart but I was determined.
Rebuilt it and cleaned the entire thing 3-4 times, but for some reason Cylinder 3 was running completely lean and I could not figure it out for so long. Then one time when taking it apart again, I noticed that the brass float valve would not seat properly in carb 3, it was like a mm or two high, causing the float needle to have ever so less clearance, jamming the needle up into the float valve when fuel would flow in, sealing the fuel hole entirely until it sucked whatever fuel it could from the bowl. No matter how I bent the prongs of the float, I couldn't get it to seat correctly.
I never understood this, I took it apart and every single time would switch the brass float valve, I had like 3 different kits to grab from, they were all the exact same size and float valve. Look down into the hole that the valve seats in, across all 4 carbs it was the exact same with zero difference, the hole was clean and smooth, so there was no visual reason it wouldn't fit! It irritated me so much that after the fourth time putting it back together and testing it, watching it either dump fuel out or get zero fuel to the bowl after a second, I just put the bike in storage.
I wanted to fix it, but could not figure out how, and nowhere had any information since getting info on the bike in the first place was super rough. I could either try to sand and polish the hole, or even sand down the valve and risk ruining something, or try to buy a whole new carb rack. The issue was that nobody was selling the carb set anywhere, I saw it once on Ebay but it was gone within like a day and was like $500 and didn't see another at any point.
And now time has gotten away from me quite a bit. Don't really have the time or space to work on it, and at this point I am contemplating even attempting to sell a broken bike, or just storing it until I can get to it someday and just try to figure out if any other aftermarket carbs will work for it.
TLDR: Don't have much time anymore, but i've been told the bike is rare in the sense of not too many people really owning one since it's a mutt bike, and the carb is a PITA with one of the four carbs running dangerously lean with a simple surface level issue that I can't solve after rebuilding it 4 times (Brass float valve wont seat all the way for some reason, causing the needle to get stuck in the hole and not allow fuel to flow in until the bowl empties and it gets a brief burst of fuel), and at this point it seems like my only option would be to buy a new carb rack or the specific carb and hope it's in okay condition if I could ever find one that's oem and doesn't cost half what I paid for the bike or isn't destroyed, find an aftermarket one that actually works, try to even attempt to sell it again later on (tried, no luck) or when I finally get time try to fix it and just continue to keep it in storage.
submitted by xSaturnityx to motorcycles [link] [comments]
The bike is a 1986 Yamaha YX600, a slightly odd 'mutt' bike. Bought it a bit ago. It ran when stored, but it was stored for a good while. The dude was super cool so I trusted it, and hey it was $900 for basically a complete bike+helmet+original owners manual+$150 motorcycle ramp, and just a random box of extra small parts.
I bought an original ECU to just keep it simple, I bought original gauge cluster (unfortunately don't remember entirely since it's been a while, but a modern aftermarket gauge cluster would not work, so I had to go with OEM.) Thankfully Ebay was a savior, there were not many parts for this bike and I should have done more research, but fortunately I found one seller that exclusively sells a bunch of parts for it.
After all was said and done it ran, just not very well. Then one day I noticed it was kinda running hot, I somewhat chocked it up to just being super hot outisde, but then noticed some smoke coming out of the crankcase after parking somewhere to check. It was definitely having trouble. Then it just simply wouldn't start up. Got super worried but after letting it cool down for an hour it was alright to start, and just got home quickly.
I went out after a bit and started it to check what was going on, I had a temp gun and noticed cylinder 3 was sitting at a cool 600-700 degrees, while the others were like 300-350. Go figure, it's a 4 cylinder bike with a 4-carb rack. One for each cylinder because... Dunno. The entire thing is such a PITA to take apart but I was determined.
Rebuilt it and cleaned the entire thing 3-4 times, but for some reason Cylinder 3 was running completely lean and I could not figure it out for so long. Then one time when taking it apart again, I noticed that the brass float valve would not seat properly in carb 3, it was like a mm or two high, causing the float needle to have ever so less clearance, jamming the needle up into the float valve when fuel would flow in, sealing the fuel hole entirely until it sucked whatever fuel it could from the bowl. No matter how I bent the prongs of the float, I couldn't get it to seat correctly.
I never understood this, I took it apart and every single time would switch the brass float valve, I had like 3 different kits to grab from, they were all the exact same size and float valve. Look down into the hole that the valve seats in, across all 4 carbs it was the exact same with zero difference, the hole was clean and smooth, so there was no visual reason it wouldn't fit! It irritated me so much that after the fourth time putting it back together and testing it, watching it either dump fuel out or get zero fuel to the bowl after a second, I just put the bike in storage.
I wanted to fix it, but could not figure out how, and nowhere had any information since getting info on the bike in the first place was super rough. I could either try to sand and polish the hole, or even sand down the valve and risk ruining something, or try to buy a whole new carb rack. The issue was that nobody was selling the carb set anywhere, I saw it once on Ebay but it was gone within like a day and was like $500 and didn't see another at any point.
And now time has gotten away from me quite a bit. Don't really have the time or space to work on it, and at this point I am contemplating even attempting to sell a broken bike, or just storing it until I can get to it someday and just try to figure out if any other aftermarket carbs will work for it.
TLDR: Don't have much time anymore, but i've been told the bike is rare in the sense of not too many people really owning one since it's a mutt bike, and the carb is a PITA with one of the four carbs running dangerously lean with a simple surface level issue that I can't solve after rebuilding it 4 times (Brass float valve wont seat all the way for some reason, causing the needle to get stuck in the hole and not allow fuel to flow in until the bowl empties and it gets a brief burst of fuel), and at this point it seems like my only option would be to buy a new carb rack or the specific carb and hope it's in okay condition if I could ever find one that's oem and doesn't cost half what I paid for the bike or isn't destroyed, find an aftermarket one that actually works, try to even attempt to sell it again later on (tried, no luck) or when I finally get time try to fix it and just continue to keep it in storage.