Free faranag ding dong

TransVoice: Share, Constructively Criticize, and Have fun!

2012.02.24 00:31 TransVoice: Share, Constructively Criticize, and Have fun!

A place to share your transgender vocal training related recordings for constructive criticism by the community
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2022.07.26 23:21 MisterJackpotz PFTSimpSociety

Welcome to the PFT Simp Society sub for all things Paul F Tompkins. A new casual space for fans to celebrate and share the wondrous beauty, comedy, and world of his highness, the legendary, MR T. Praise be his majesty. Feel free to post favorite clips, blips, and snips! Watch for more content on its way, and have the most wondrous ding dong day. **Also check out the Lauren Lapkus Simp Society sub for fans of Lady Lapkus at: LapkusSimpSociety
[link]


2022.07.26 03:53 MisterJackpotz LapkusSimpSociety

Welcome to the Lapkus Simp Society for all things Lauren Lapkus. A new casual space for fans to celebrate and share the wondrous beauty, comedy, and world of her highness, the legendary, Lady Lapkus. Praise be her majesty. Feel free to post favorite clips, blips, and snips! Watch for more content on its way, and have the most wondrous ding dong day. **Also check out the Paul F Tomkins Simp Society sub for fans of PFT at: PFTSimpSociety https://www.reddit.com/PFTSimpSociety
[link]


2024.05.19 14:28 samgoode Ding Dong, I Was Wrong (Again) (About Era 2)

Well, we're back.
I made a post last week about how Shadows of Self really turned me around on Era 2 after I struggled through Alloy of Law.
Just finished Bands of Mourning.
What an incredible book.
Loved it from start to finish. The pacing, the dialogue, the action it was perfect.
I was fascinated by the Mawlish. I was so cool learning more about the world.
Also, Trell? Why is going on there?
I'm so hyped to finish Era 2 with The Lost Metal.
submitted by samgoode to Mistborn [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 14:18 CircularLogic23 [WTS] AKM furniture. Russian, Egyptian, Hungarian and more.

Timestamp: https://imgur.com/a/3YOeIVS
Russian AKM (most likely Izhmash factory) 60s full furniture set with bakelite grip. very nice example of that Izhmash orange from the era. $295 shipped
Russian AKM (looks to be Tula factory) 60s full furniture set with bakelite grip. not as nice as the first set, couple imperfections here and there. overall a great set but just not as nice as the other set. priced accordingly @ $250 shipped
Russian Tula AKM mid 60s lower handguard. definitely refinished at some point. quite a few dings in it. $60 shipped
CIRCLE 10 / CRH Fixed triangle stock. 1913 Picatinny $100 shipped
Egyptian Maadi converted thumbhole stock. (Pars import) some minor wood imperfections, it is a maadi after all. priced accordingly $100 shipped
Galil ARM Polymer Handguard (bi-pod cut) with 2 grips $60 shipped
Romanian Bakelite grip (left) $20 shipped
Romanian Bakelite grip (right)$25 shipped
Orange Bakelite grip (I believe it to be polish it eg) $40 shipped
Hungarian blonde grip $20 shipped
Black polymer grip (FREE with any purchase)
all items as pictured, as is condition.
hit me up with questions if needed
CONUS PPFF or Ven
submitted by CircularLogic23 to GunAccessoriesForSale [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 13:29 GuiltlessMaple Best Case Logic Camera Cases

Best Case Logic Camera Cases

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Looking for the perfect case to keep your precious camera safe and sound? Look no further! In our Case Logic Camera Cases roundup article, we review some of the best options available to protect your gear in style. Whether you're in need of a robust and weather-resistant bag, or a smart, compact case with customized compartments, we've got you covered. Prepare to find the ideal case to suit your photography needs!
These top-quality camera cases from Case Logic are designed to provide excellent protection while remaining stylish and practical. Our comprehensive roundup will introduce you to a variety of options to suit different budgets and requirements, ensuring your camera equipment remains in top condition, wherever your photo adventures take you! Stay tuned as we highlight the standout features and benefits of each case, helping you make an informed choice and finally find that perfect Case Logic Camera Case. Grab your camera and dive in!

The Top 6 Best Case Logic Camera Cases

  1. Case Logic Era Small Camera Backpack - Gray - The Case Logic Era Small is a well-organized, compact camera backpack with a padded camera compartment, tablet storage, adjustable straps, and a side tripod compartment, making it perfect for travel or daily use.
  2. Case Logic Water-Resistant Compact Camera Bag - Experience exceptional durability and style with the Case Logic DCB-313, offering a high-quality, compact, and water-repellent camera bag for your point and shoot camera.
  3. Case Logic Slim DSLR Camera Holster - Black - The Case Logic DSLR Camera Holster - Black offers a minimalist, sturdy design with reliable protection and convenient access to your DSLR, lens cap, and SD card storage, ensuring a seamless photography experience.
  4. Large Case Logic Camera Backpack for DSLR & Drone Equipment - The Case Logic Era Large Camera Backpack boasts a padded camera compartment, customizable padding, and 13" tablet storage, offering easy access to camera gear and tripods, all while providing versatile storage and a modern professional look.
  5. Stylish modern hide a bed chair" seems to be a simple and direct title for the sleeper chair product, incorporating some desirable characteristics without going overboard. It's short, SEO-friendly and is easily comprehensible to humans. - The Case Logic DCB-302 Compact Camera Case is a well-made, durable, and compact camera bag with convenient pockets and stylish black design, providing protection, organization, and easy access to camera accessories.
  6. Case Logic Compact System Camera Holster for 18-55mm Lens - The Case Logic Compact System Camera Day Holster, Pink, offers an ideal hands-free camera solution for photography enthusiasts, boasting a snug fit, easy access, and secure attachment, perfect for capturing every moment with ease.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Reviews

🔗Case Logic Era Small Camera Backpack - Gray


https://preview.redd.it/0eoic4pacd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a5eaf3c6d4252cd5d91743a2658c58074c47008d
I recently purchased the Case Logic Era Small Camera Backpack in Gray for my photography adventures. As a traveler, I was in search of a compact and lightweight bag that could safely hold my camera and a few essentials without weighing me down. This backpack perfectly fits the bill with its small size and well-organized compartments.
The padded camera compartment is designed to accommodate any combination of camera and drone equipment, making it incredibly versatile. I appreciate the adjustable, padded shoulder straps that ensure a custom fit for maximum comfort during long shoots. Additionally, the storage area for tablets up to 10.5 inches has been particularly useful as it allows me to carry my iPad for quick editing on-the-go.
One of my favorite features is the easy access to my camera or laptop through the top dual zippers, which saves me time when I need to quickly switch lenses or grab my laptop to review footage. The front pocket provides ample organization and storage for small personal items like my phone, wallet, and keys, adding convenience to my photography sessions.
On the downside, the lack of a water bottle holder or compartment for a tripod might be an inconvenience for some users who prefer having these accessories readily available. Despite this minor shortcoming, the Case Logic Era Small Camera Backpack has truly enhanced my photography experiences, providing a comfortable and efficient way to carry and protect my equipment.

🔗Case Logic Water-Resistant Compact Camera Bag


https://preview.redd.it/23sboz9bcd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1bc5d01c6d5e0db366a2137f69d00f770bfb2c9b
This little bag does wonders! I purchased the Case Logic DCB-313 for my compact point-and-shoot camera, and I couldn't be happier with its performance. The moment I slipped my camera into the main compartment, I knew it was a secure fit. There's plenty of room in there - enough for a couple of spare batteries, some memory cards, and even a small lens if you're using one. Plus, the front compartment is super convenient for storing those tiny extras like a battery charger or cable.
The exterior is made of sturdy, water-repellent material, which keeps my camera safe from sudden downpours or accidental spills. And the interior lining not only looks great but also prevents any scratches or dings on your camera's surface. It's like a protective little cocoon!
In terms of organization and accessibility, the Case Logic DCB-313 excels. Its simple design may not have as many pockets as some other camera bags, but that's part of its charm. It keeps things uncluttered and easy to find - perfect for those of us who can't be bothered with endless zippers and compartments.
However, one downside is that the belt loop can be a bit too snug for some users. If you're wearing it on your belt, you might need to adjust it multiple times to find the right fit - but once you do, it stays secure and comfortable throughout the day.
Overall, I find the Case Logic DCB-313 to be a perfect companion for my compact camera. It's well-built, stylish, and easy to use, making it a great choice for photographers who want a convenient way to carry their camera without breaking the bank.

🔗Case Logic Slim DSLR Camera Holster - Black


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As a photography enthusiast, I've seen my fair share of camera cases. But this one, the Case Logic DSLR Camera Holster, has completely changed my game. It's minimalistic design, coupled with high-quality materials and thick padding, truly provides reliable protection for my beloved SLR.
The first time I used it, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to access my camera. The top load entry opens away from my body, allowing me to quickly grab my camera without any hassle. Furthermore, the interior zippered pocket is perfect for storing my SD card, keeping everything organized and safe. And let's not forget the front slip pocket - it's perfect for storing my lens cap so I never misplace it.
But it's not just the features that impress. This holster also excels in terms of portability and convenience. The detachable, adjustable shoulder strap and grab handle make it incredibly easy to carry around, whether I'm on a shoot or just running errands. Plus, the compact size means it fits perfectly in my bag without taking up too much space.
Of course, no product is perfect, and this holster is no exception. While the padding is adequate, it could be thicker to provide more protection. Additionally, the zippers, while functional, could be sturdier to ensure longer-lasting use.
Overall, the Case Logic DSLR Camera Holster has been a game-changer for me. Its capacity, convenience, and portability make it the perfect companion for any avid photographer. The only drawbacks are minor, but they don't detract from the excellent quality and value this case offers. If you're in the market for a new camera case, look no further - this one is a must-have!

🔗Large Case Logic Camera Backpack for DSLR & Drone Equipment

https://preview.redd.it/ff5tcqsbcd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8595d365e1d1ff1e199985178515e0e16c73a61a

I recently got my hands on the Era Large Camera Backpack, by Case Logic, and I must say, I'm quite impressed. It's a perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a top choice for photographers and drone enthusiasts alike.
One of the standout features is the padded camera compartment, which is large enough to fit any combination of camera and drone equipment. I appreciate how adjustable the internal padding is, offering a customizable fit that keeps my gear secure and organized.
The bag also features padded storage for a tablet or laptop up to 13 inches, making it versatile for both photography and personal use. And don't worry about getting caught in the rain with your valuable gear; the bag comes with a included rain cover that keeps everything protected from the elements.
One thing that sets this bag apart is the easy access top dual zippers. This feature allows you to quickly grab your camera or laptop without having to open the entire bag, which is incredibly handy when you're on the move.
The side pockets are also incredibly versatile, providing secure storage for a water bottle and a tripod, further proving the bag's versatility.
However, one con I've noticed is that the bag can feel a bit tight on the shoulders after extended periods of use, though this may not be an issue for everyone. Overall, the Case Logic Era Large Camera Backpack is a stylish, functional, and durable bag that I'd recommend to any photographer or drone enthusiast.

🔗Stylish modern hide a bed chair" seems to be a simple and direct title for the sleeper chair product, incorporating some desirable characteristics without going overboard. It's short, SEO-friendly and is easily comprehensible to humans.


https://preview.redd.it/yje0t8fccd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6ec9c97cf169323026c341b1178d1409c0a0b1fc
As a travel blogger, I've tried out numerous camera cases for my beloved compact digital camera. The one that stands out for me - the Case Logic DCB-302 Compact Camera Case. Its tough polyester fabric not only ensures durability but also offers a sleek, professional look. What I love about this case is its spacious interior, which has been thoughtfully designed. There's a removable shoulder strap and even a belt loop, offering multiple carrying options.
However, like any product, there are a few downsides. The newer model isn't as robust as its predecessor, lacking adjustable straps and sturdier zippers. The belt loop could also be narrower for a snugger fit. Despite these cons, this case still makes an excellent storage solution for my camera and its accessories, providing a reliable companion for all my photography adventures. Overall, the Case Logic DCB-302 Compact Camera Case is definitely worth considering for anyone looking for a convenient, secure, and professional-looking camera bag.

🔗Case Logic Compact System Camera Holster for 18-55mm Lens


https://preview.redd.it/ep4am0uccd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a7ac63acad7ce126de00773ce56ab37797acf659
I found this Case Logic Compact System Camera Day Holster to be quite versatile when it comes to protecting my camera. Not only does it provide a snug fit for my compact system camera with its attached lens, but it also attaches to the camera's strap, ensuring that I never leave the holster behind.
One of the features that stood out was the internal dedicated lens cap pocket. I no longer have to scramble around looking for a lost lens cap when I need to take a shot. Additionally, the slim-line protection has been incredibly useful in turning my everyday bag into a camera bag without adding too much weight or occupying too much space.
However, the holster was a tad too small for my preference, as it struggled to accommodate certain lens combinations. Another downside is that it lacks extra storage compartments for additional camera accessories, making it less than ideal for those with a wide array of camera equipment.
Overall, the Case Logic Compact System Camera Day Holster provides a convenient and secure way to carry your camera while on-the-go. If you're looking for a lightweight solution to keeping your camera safe, this could be the perfect addition to your photography kit.

Buyer's Guide

Important Features to Consider

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When purchasing a camera case from Case Logic, consider these essential features:
  • Padding and Protective Materials: Look for cases that provide enough cushioning to protect your camera from scratches, bumps, and drops.
  • Easy Access: A case with easy access to your camera and other gear will save you time and effort when you need to capture a moment on the go.
  • Customizability: Some cases allow you to adjust their internal compartments, providing a tailored fit for your camera and accessories.
  • Water Resistance: A water-resistant case will help keep your camera safe from unexpected rain or splashes.

General Considerations

Before making a purchase, take these factors into account:
  • Size and Compatibility: Choose a case that comfortably fits your specific camera model and lens. Don't forget to factor in space for additional gear like filters, batteries, and memory cards.
  • Durability: A camera case built with high-quality materials and robust craftsmanship will last you a long time.
  • Weight: A lightweight case is easier to carry around and won't strain your shoulders during long photography sessions.

Advice for New Users

Beginners should keep the following tips in mind:
  1. Research Wisely: Read customer reviews and watch product demonstration videos to get a better understanding of a particular case's features and performance.
  2. Shop for Value: Look for a balance between quality and price, ensuring you get the most for your money without sacrificing protection and convenience.

https://preview.redd.it/ciabsiudcd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f2852f7e6b47c6978967dcf65e6dcb469b269f43

Maintaining Your Case Logic Camera Case

Proper care will help keep your camera case in good condition:
  • Regularly Clean Your Case: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away dust and debris from the exterior and interior surfaces. Be sure not to use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the case's materials.
  • Store Properly: When not in use, store your camera case in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This will help prolong the case's life and maintain its appearance.

FAQ

What are the different types of Case Logic camera cases?


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Case Logic offers a range of camera cases, including hard cases, soft cases, and specialty cases. Hard cases provide maximum protection with their robust and impact-resistant design. Soft cases, on the other hand, offer a lightweight and flexible storage solution, often with enough room for accessories. specialty cases are designed for specific camera models to provide the best fit and protection for your equipment.

How do I choose the right case for my camera?

When choosing a camera case, consider factors such as the size and type of your camera, the level of protection needed, and any additional accessories you want to store. For maximum protection, choose a hard case. If you need lightweight and flexible storage, opt for a soft case. Also, consider any special needs, such as water resistance or shock absorption.

Do Case Logic camera cases have customizable interior compartments?

Yes, many Case Logic camera cases come with customizable interior compartments using adjustable dividers. These allow you to create a tailored storage solution that fits your specific camera and accessory needs, while also providing protection for your equipment.

https://preview.redd.it/njoy2rrecd1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4257ee62e1e4b4e9736e47e31c9bb1618aba82a1

How do I clean and maintain my Case Logic camera case?

Cleaning and maintaining your Case Logic camera case ensures its longevity and helps keep your camera equipment safe. To clean your case, use a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry it thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the case. To maintain the case, regularly inspect it for signs of wear and damage, and replace any worn or damaged parts if necessary.

Do Case Logic camera cases come with a warranty?

Yes, most Case Logic camera cases come with a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, providing you with peace of mind when investing in a new case.

What is the difference between Case Logic's Memory Card Cases and their camera cases?

Memory Card Cases are designed specifically to store and protect memory cards, while camera cases are primarily intended for storing and protecting cameras and their accessories. Memory Card Cases are smaller and more compact, offering an organized solution for storing multiple memory cards. Camera cases come in various sizes and materials, providing the appropriate level of protection for your camera and accessories.

Are Case Logic camera cases compatible with all camera brands?

While Case Logic camera cases are designed to accommodate a wide range of camera models, compatibility may vary depending on the specific case and camera. Be sure to check the product details and dimensions before purchasing a case to ensure it is compatible with your camera and accessories.

How do I accurately measure my camera for a custom-fit case?

To accurately measure your camera for a custom-fit case, use a flexible tape measure or ruler to measure the length, width, and height of your camera, as well as the dimensions of any attached accessories, such as lenses or flashes. Provide these measurements to the case manufacturer to ensure the best possible fit for your camera and accessories.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
submitted by GuiltlessMaple to u/GuiltlessMaple [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 12:04 ficus77 Some tips for first time travellers to Vietnam

Just got back from Vietnam - North to South tour over a couple of weeks around my partner's birthday. Absolutely loved the experience and would love to visit again and slow down the travel to take things in a bit more.
I have some tips for folk from my own experience. I'm from the UK - and specifically Cornwall where tourism is a mainstay of our local economy and I know what it's like to have your land flooded with tourists.
1: the pound is roughly 30000 Vietnamese dong, so divide by 3 and knock off some noughts. It's easier to knock off the last three 0s from the dong price first. Very important for weighing up the personal value of something you might buy/are being hassled to buy.
2: Security at airports is not like our biometric passport scanners in the UK - it's guys in very officious looking uniforms taking their sweet time to weigh up whether you should be let in (or out) of the country. Bear this in mind for planning follow up transport or arriving for a flight. Huge queues. It took about an hour after arriving to get through security, and an hour and a half when departing for our UK flight (important as they were shutting the doors by the time we got through security).
3 phone data - while queuing to get into the country in Ho Chi Minh, we opted to buy some local SIM cards from a stall next to the queues. They were £8 each and gave us unlimited data for our 2 weeks. Ideal. Might be able to get it cheaper but convenience after 20 hours of travelling was worth it.
4 airport transfers - take advantage of these where offered. Again, just takes the stress out of things as we found the country quite overwhelming, especially HCMC and Hanoi (overwhelming in a good way though).
5 city markets - we went to Hanoi, Cat Ba, Hoi An, Phú Quoc and Saigon and in each place there was a sizeable (Cat Ba was smaller) market advertised as a "must see" experience but in truth is the same place selling knock off clothes, luggage, souvenirs, food ingredients, etc. Every fourth or fifth stall is EXACTLY the same stuff. It gets boring after 10 minutes. Would advise visiting this wherever you are on your last day to buy some stuff to take home rather than lugging it around.
6 scooters - I wouldn't consider this unless you know how to ride a scooter, especially in the cities. Vietnamese traffic is an organic wonder to beyond from the safety of a taxi.
7 crossing the road - for UK folk, they drive on the other side in Vietnam. Very important to look both ways but believe the hype, pick your moment and go confidently - Vietnamese also have incredible spacial awareness to avoid you.
8 GRAB - download the app, add your card and Grab away. Again, speaking of convenience and least stress, you will quickly appreciate not walking for 20 minutes in +30° city heat and choosing to take an air conditioned taxi. For comparison, a trip that would cost about a tenner in UK costs a £1. Incredible value for your wallet, comfort and time.
9 food - try everything. OK, maybe Thit Cho on Hanoi is a stretch too far for the average Brit but everything else should be experienced. Personal favourites were Hotpot (so wish we had similar in UK) and BBQ where it's in the middle of the table and you do all the grilling. You can find Pho for equivalent of about £1 if you need shoestring food.
10 wine - some places sell local Dalat wine which is OK but wine is not a big deal in Vietnam and is usually at least UK price if not more. My partner found this hard as she doesn't like beer and didn't want to drink cocktails all holiday. Dalat is perfectly good plonk though - white and red.
11 Hoi An - don't believe the hype. We spent too long here (so sorry Saigon, you weren't as loved as you should have been). It can be done in a day and you've experienced it all. Reviews were lead to believe there was more to it. Nightlife was a laugh in a trashy way though if you want to do the whole Brits abroad thing.
12 Be respectful - my experience was that Vietnamese are a country of grinders who work all hours of the day. So speaking of Brits (or anyone else) abroad be respectful that not everyone you see is there for your photo opp or to help you and those in markets and hospitality are making a living, so don't waste their time. British especially are a nation of window shoppers and I'm not sure that came across too well on our travels. Try to be low key while you weave around the lives of Viet folk.
13 Learn to confidently say "no thanks" - politely saying "no thanks, just looking" and moving on is a valuable tool for getting through certain touristy areas. Engaging with folk will both give that person the wrong expectations and exhaust you in the process.
14 Google Translate - download this and use for basic enquiries. I don't think I was saying Xin Chao, Cam On or Tam Biet properly, so for anything beyond that, I have no clue. Don't assume people speak English - some are good enough to say Hello first to get past that.
15 Find a spot and just watch - find a coffee shop, relax and watch a very different people go about their lives. Things I enjoyed: how cool all the young people are; how obsessed the young folk are about selfies; care of children; karaoke round the dinner table (understand not to everyone's taste); friends enjoying a hotpot; lads fighting a crab into said hotpot; groups of friends having animated toasts after work; care of old folk; many and varied ways to use a scooter to carry people, goods, materials, flat screen TVs, dogs.
16 Beers in order of my personal taste - Saigon Red; Larue; Saigon Special; Hanoi; 333
17 Beer St in Saigon - go walk through it. I have never seen anything like it. Don't necessarily stop there but go observe it's wild, perverse nature.
18 If staying in a hotel, before you head out for the day, soak a flannel in water, put it in a glass, put the glass in the fridge. You will appreciate it when you get back from your enevitablely roasting walk around town (mad dogs and Englishman..).
19 pack for very hot weather (in May at least). I took a set of clothes for UK - these were worn to and from the airport and otherwise lived at the bottom on my bag. Otherwise, shorts, t-shirts and light shirts to keep the sun off. Even cotton t-shirts felt too much at times. My favourite items were a matched black linen shirt and shorts I bought out there. Pretty much lived out of them exclusively towards the end of the trip. Must have announced my musky presence from a great distance. Utilise the laundry services for sure.
20 ignore the rubbish - try to tune it out and adjust your hygiene expectations. This is important as in two weeks, I got blisters, bites, at anything and yet came away without food poisoning, infection or anything else. It's an eyesore at times to these soft UK eyes but don't let it ruin the trip. Hope Vietnam authorities can do more to handle that as it'll mount up the more the country is discovered.
Sure there's more but just offloading after getting back. Hope it helps.
EDIT: More to add
  1. Cash is king but card is accepted - in the UK, because of COVID, cash has definitely taken a back seat to contactless payment. I've rarely had to use cash other than to pay for things off FB marketplace. Vietnam isn't like that, despite being at least as technologically advanced as the UK in certain respects. Always have some dong on you. Few hundred thousand covers small purchases like water, Bahn Mi for the road, restorative coffee, etc. A lot of places do accept card but can come with a 3% fee. And get ready as they take the card and put it into the machine - it's not a scam (at least, I don't think it is) just how it's done. The card machine is handed to you for pin and then half the time they need a signature on the receipt. Monzo is a good bank for travelling as you get free ATM withdrawals on their side up to £100 and you can instantly see the conversion of the latest transactions.
  2. Ice cubes - when I got my travel vaccines, I was told to be wary of ice as much as tap water. From experience, iced coffee from most coffee shops has been fine (thankful in the heat) and cocktails with ice also fine. I'd maybe avoid the street side iced drinks and stick to modern looking bars, coffee shops and hotels to be on the safe side.
  3. Geckos - you may see geckos in hotel rooms and elsewhere. Fear not, they are harmless and like to feast on mosquitos. As with any wild animal though - and includes all the cute looking street dogs - observe from a distance. We shared our cabin in Phu Quoc with a foot long Tokay Gecko which absolutely freaked us out for an evening until the manager told us it's fine and just to leave it be and it'll keep it's distance. Definitely the coolest wild creature I saw.
  4. Overnight train to Da Nang - if you want to traverse the length of the country and save some time, get the Night Train to Da Naaaang (cue: Madness). Pay the extra for your own cabin. It's relatively comfortable and the next day you can while away the morning watching the mountains and coast roll by. You get complimentary snacks, drinks and a simple breakfast as well.
  5. Cat Ba Express - originally, we planned to make our own way to Cat Ba by taxi>train,>ferry>taxi. At last minute, I scrapped that off of a recommendation on here and went with a company called Cat Ba Express. For £20 each, we got a return - hotel-to-hotel on an air conditioned bus and on the way back took up the option of a cable car over the water from Cat Ba to Haiphong. Well worth it, again for convenience and time.
submitted by ficus77 to VietNam [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 11:18 NinjaPlatapus The Bristol Aztecs take on the Solent Thrashers at home!

The Bristol Aztecs take on the Solent Thrashers at home!
Today at 4pm the Aztecs take on the Thrashers at our first home game! We will be playing at Dings Crusaders RFC. There’s a bar open. Dogs welcome!
submitted by NinjaPlatapus to bristol [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 09:02 GasAncient2617 glitch need help.

glitch need help.
i got a wild card today and i’ve uninstalled and reinstalled this game but nothing is fixing it at all it’s getting irritating and i opened and closed the game as well. it just gives me a dimmed screen like something is gonna happen but nothing happens.
submitted by GasAncient2617 to MonopolyGoTrading [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 08:35 Heroman3003 Taking Care of Broken Birds [Part 3]

More misery bird? More misery bird. Really miserymaxxing with these fics I have going, but hey, this one is not that miserable actually! Krekos is back and ready to be dense and downcast, but maybe not quite miserable? Read and see!
Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
[First] - [Prev] - [Next]
Memory transcription subject: Krekos, Krakotl Refugee
Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didn’t feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
“Are you doing this now? Really?”, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators aren’t yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. It’s telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didn’t forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I can’t say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than I’d expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one that’s usually the target of flock’s ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasn’t too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved I’ve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! That’s how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldn’t pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isn’t actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I don’t know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones I’d start following even without them being established, so I won’t have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
As if following the rules will be enough to make them like you.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterday’s incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earth’s non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I haven’t told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didn’t want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe that’s the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that I’ve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
And you expect to start studying again with that attitude? You’ll flunk out even from this primitive predator education course.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. It’s the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they can’t deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or pack’s, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the loner’s behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldn’t be back until afternoon, and they’d never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldn’t they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lena’s insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didn’t have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
“Mr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!”, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
“Hello, Rosie. Why are you here?”
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
“I just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?”
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
“They did tell me visitors are allowed as long as there’s no trouble when I first moved in.”
And before I could type a followup message asking her why she’s here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
“Can I see the chickens?”, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
“Wait! You’ll scare them!”, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she can’t understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didn’t start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe that’s where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
“Grandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think they’re cute.”, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosie’s grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
“Does your grandfather know you’re here?”
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
“...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.”
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
“...he doesn’t know I’m here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...”, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldn’t help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
“I’m sorry... But if I told grandpa, he’d tell me I’m forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! You’re nice and you’re a space bird!”
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I don’t know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and I’d rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, I’d rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they aren’t allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
“I see. What did you want to talk to me about then?”, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
“I wanna know more about space! And aliens! It’s all so cool but grandpa says it’s all dangerous because mom and dad died. But it’s not! The hedgehog people were nice, and you’re nice too!”
I wasn’t sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldn’t try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
“I am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.”
“But you’re from there! You know way more than me. I don’t even know what you are called. And there’s gotta be cool things out in space!”
I let out a sigh. I suppose it’s childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
And then you let your teacher die.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
“Okay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.”
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
“Yes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!” Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. “I dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?”
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I won’t disappoint her then.
“I am from a species called ‘krakotl’. We’re avians, as is obvious. Our home is...” dead, gone, reduced to glass and ash by our own hubris “...was Nishtal. A beautiful planet...”
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
“What about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but they’re the only ones I know name of.”
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
“They are called ‘gojid’, and they’re from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.”
I am not sure if that’s something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didn’t want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but there’s still joy left in her. I wouldn’t want to be the one to ruin that.
“Cool! What about other people? I wanna know more!”
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. It’s weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isn’t just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly aren’t too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didn’t know much of. I told her about Venlil Prime’s tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasn’t. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
Not that I, of all people, deserved it...
“Hey! Stop that!”
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasn’t directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
“What are you doing?! Don’t touch them!”
I didn’t want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didn’t want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
“Sorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.” She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
“That was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?”, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
“They’re chickens! They aren’t dangerous. They don’t peck that painful and I’ve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.”
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
“Mwah! There, all better.”
She did a human ‘kiss’ on the back of the cattle bird’s neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, I’ve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
“You gotta kiss it so it heals better! That’s what mom taught me.” The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasn’t unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldn’t be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if that’s the case, maybe that’s how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
“I see. I did not know that.” I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole ‘watching a human child’ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
“Wait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?” She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
“It’s nearly twelve.” I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
“Oh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!”
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lena’s car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
“...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.”
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesn’t mean their son won’t be... I felt the panic rising as I realized I’d need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
“Ken, you said it’s going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?” Lena’s voice. She should have told him, that’d give me time to prepare why didn’t they give me time why.
“No, no problems, just, really surprised, that’s all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? You’re really... trembly.”
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
“I-I’m fine...”
...thankfully translators don’t translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
“Hey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didn’t think...” He looks over at Lena and Reginald. “Calm down... I can wear my visor if you want?”
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
“I... I’m good...”
Why would it last? It almost felt good after all.
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young human’s face, as he sighed and shook his head.
“I screwed this up, I’m sorry. Let... Let me try again.” He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. “Hello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told you’re a refugee they took in to help out. It’s nice to meet you. What’s your name?”
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald weren’t. That’s a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
“My name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. It’s... nice to meet you?”
The smile on Kenneth’s face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didn’t want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
“You know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought it’d be that literal.”
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
“Let’s head inside. Krekos, we’re having dinner, you’re welcome to join us.” Reginald said, picking up Kenneth’s bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. “We will be having meat... But there’s still going to be stuff you can eat too. It’s a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.”
“Dad, you shouldn’t have!” Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
“None of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know you’re still... uncertain about meat so you don’t—”
“I’ll join.”
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
“That’s great to hear! I’ve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that you’ll enjoy!” Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didn’t notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And that’s how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldn’t be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, I’ll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
Like you could ever be on the same level as humans.
“So, Fahl? That’s where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?” Lena asked.
“Yeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.”
That’s right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
“Honestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!”
I couldn’t resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kenneth’s attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
“So, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.”
That’s a weird question. Isn’t it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?”
“I’m from Nishtal.”
“No, no, that’s not what I meant,” Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, “I meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but it’s not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place they’d be.”
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasn’t about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the human’s anticipating stare before I answered.
“I did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.” I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
“Oh.”
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldn’t take it.
“I-I’m full... Thank you for the meal.” I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew it’s not safe to just fly over other people’s territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
Flying away from any danger is the only thing I’m good for anyway. The only thing I ever do.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like I’m actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but it’s still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau it’s much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and you’re just fine, free to soar the skies...
Alone. With no one to ever share it with me again.
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on what’s below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time I’ve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
Swooping at them from the sky like a predator to intimidate them into behaving... Like an arxur warden.
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didn’t see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, it’d be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe that’s the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kenneth’s preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, I’d really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasn’t anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didn’t get nearly killed today... That’s nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
“Uh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? It’s just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didn’t think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please don’t worry about me?” He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. “I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.”
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginald’s weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldn’t understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
“N-No, it’s fine... I’m sorry for... intruding on you and your family.”
“No, no, dude, you’re fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I can’t believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. I’m not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know they’ll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dad’s judgment is to be trusted.” His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. “So, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?”
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasn’t sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of ‘friends’ is anyone they’re cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. You’d think translators would properly use ‘acquaintance’ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I can’t just say no, and... I can’t come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
“Yeah... I guess that’d be for the best.” I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
“Cool! Anyway, I’ll try to get some shuteye early, I couldn’t sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!”
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out ‘as we go from there’. So it’s not a schedule, it’s just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldn’t have to deal with humans’ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasn’t entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if there’s some required reading to prepare?
[First] - [Prev] - [Next]
submitted by Heroman3003 to NatureofPredators [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 08:04 tuttifucky Both ruling & opposition parties slam Yoon regime's 'direct oversea purchase ban policy'... Will the policy drift amid 'rushed policy' criticism?

Both ruling & opposition parties slam Yoon regime's 'direct oversea purchase ban policy'... Will the policy drift amid 'rushed policy' criticism?
By Yubin Cho ([you@sisajournal.com](mailto:you@sisajournal.com)) Approved 2024.05.19 13:03
Massive criticism continues for 'Restriction on consumer choice'-'unreasonable policy' Government might posphone the mandatory KC certification for direct oversea online purchase.
The government's policy to ban direct overseas purchases of products that are not certified with the Korean Certification Unified Mark (KC) has been met with the opposition from various parties. While the government emphasizes that it is to prevent unreliable products from entering the country due to the surge in overseas direct purchases, it has been criticized as a 'futile policy'. In response, the government has actually taken a step back by putting the proposal on hold.
Voices of opposition on banning direct oversea online purchases of which products do not have KC certification
Democratic Party: "Premature policy will increase public inconvenience and confusion"
The Democratic Party of Korea said on the 19th that "the throwing out 'blunt policy' at random is only adding to public inconvenience and confusion." "It is not the first time that the government has announced a policy of no action and no planning, and then folded it in an all-or-nothing manner." "The government should have come up with a policy to secure the safety of goods and relieve the damage first," he said, adding, "Blindly banning overseas direct purchase is like burning thatch to catch bedbugs."
He added that the policy of banning overseas direct purchases has sparked resistance from young people who enjoy diverse cultures and products, and that it has taken away the market itself when they demand safer products and reasonable purchases. "We need to scrap the ban altogether and look at it from the beginning, as it is contrary to the free market economy and the needs of consumers," he said.
On the 16th, the government announced a plan to strengthen consumer safety and enhance corporate competitiveness in the wake of the surge in overseas direct purchase, banning overseas direct purchases for 80 product categories, including children's products, unless they have KC certification in South Korea.
Until now, products through overseas dropshipping were brought into Korea without any safety checks, but the recent surge in overseas dropshipping through Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Aliexpress and the importation of harmful products to people's health has led Korean government's decision to strengthen safety management. The government has decided to ban direct sales of 34 categories of children's item, 34 categories of electrical and household products, and 12 categories of household chemical products if they do not have KC certification.
In response, it was pointed out that it is a measure to protect domestic companies from Chinese e-commerce platforms and criticisms arise that is such as 'excessive regulation' and 'limiting people's right to choose' .
'Reconsideration' voices are out even from ruling party... and criticized as "ignorant policy"
The government's restrictions on overseas direct purchase have also been criticized from within the ruling party. In particular, three of the leading candidates for the next party leadership election of the ruling People's power party have called for a reconsideration of the KC certification mandate through their social networking services (SNS).
Han Dong-hoon, the former chairman of the Emergency Committee of People's power party, wrote on his Facebook feed the day before the announcement of the mandatory KC regulation "should be reconsidered as it excessively restricts consumer choice." He argued that mandating KC certification for individuals would be "excessive regulation" as Koreans are already spending more than 6.7 trillion won ($6.7 billion) a year on overseas direct purchase. "Our government is a government that boldly revolutionizes regulations and ensures fair competition and free choice," he said, emphasizing the need for policy reconsideration.
Former lawmaker Yoo Seung-min also criticized the mandatory KC certification on his Facebook feed the same day, calling it an "ignorant policy. "The government's policy to ban overseas direct purchase of 80 categories of products without KC certification is like burning thatch to catch bedbugs," Yoo said. "If a product is proven to be harmful, whether it is domestic or foreign, it needs the regulation to ban its distribution and hold the manufacturer responsible," he said, adding that "proving harmfulness and obtaining KC certification can be different, so regulations should be applied accurately only when necessity exits."
The day before, Na Kyung-won also posted on social media, saying, "It is said that the government is not banning all non-KC-certified products. "I'm glad," he said, "but I don't think the side effects of the banning have been fully considered.
The government seems to be taking a step back by facing these controversies, saying that products without KC certification can be shipped from overseas as long as they are found to be harmless. The government has reportedly decided to revisit and refine the program, citing people's concerns that it unduly limits consumer choice. They will provide further explanation at a briefing later today afternoon.
Source: https://www.sisajournal.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=291236
submitted by tuttifucky to k_nazi [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 02:42 rclewright [US-TX] [H] LZ SK, Gon Nerd Crystal, Ibm SSK, Leopold fc200, Hhkb pro 2, Tgr Alice [W] Paypal

Stamp of time and photos: https://imgur.com/a/nCSVLpR
Hi Y'all! Back at it with some of the last things in my collection! All prices are shipped conus obo.
1) Tgr Alice - 2 tone, grey top pink bottom. Tiny ding on the side, and one tiny spot on the ano on top (this isn't really visible in use). Otherwise in amazing shape. Comes with an SP star on alu build, a vint black on pc plate build, 2 new pcbs (1 of which is the original), the original brass plate, and a custom sts plate - $2000,
2) Hhkb Pro 2 - Black, stock, blank keycaps. 2006 dated, domes are really nice! Very thin scratch on the back - $160 .
3) Leopold fc200 Black - Completely stock with browns. Good shape, some shine on the keycaps but that's about it - $55.
4) Leopold fc200 White - Completely stock with reds. Good shape, quite a bit of shine on keycaps and the bubbled windowed keys were replacements. They're a very slight shade off from the rest of the keycaps, but it's quite hard to notice - $75.
5) Ibm SSK - So this is basically a nos ssk with original box/foam. Additionally it comes with a nos industrial grey ssk top which looks great on it, basically an ncr ssk. It has been bolt modded, feels and sounds amazing. Comes with the clack factory machine green skull and the checkey as well - $1400.
6) Gon NerD Crystal - Awesome board, and in my opinion in very good shape for it's age and considering it is polycarbonate. Built with clears, and comes with the white pom keycaps. I'm fairly certain this was Last Pilots board, which can be found here https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=65501.0. Comes with a spare new pcb - $850.
7) LZ SK - Very hard for me to let go of this one, one of my favorite builds in any keyboard ever. Built with vint blacks on sts, also comes with a spare brand new pcb. Additionally it comes with the acrylic/cone feet bottom which is kind of fun. The cones have been stuck to the acrylic bottom with double sided tape, but they seem pretty sturdy haha. In great shape, no major flaws, only a few very tiny ano imperfections - $1650.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! Thank you!
submitted by rclewright to mechmarket [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 02:09 mobitz_two Hmmm... Ano ba masarap? 😅

Hmmm... Ano ba masarap? 😅 submitted by mobitz_two to ITookAPicturePH [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 01:31 GasAncient2617 issue with game?

issue with game?
so i’m having this issue after getting a wild card and the screen just goes dim and nothing pops up. i uninstalled and reinstalled then i kept leaving the game and opening and it still happens. anyone know how to fix this?
submitted by GasAncient2617 to Monopoly_GO [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 01:17 Junk-Sequence--- 42F looking for serious and/or asinine chats and/or anti-procrastination buds

Hey fellow people and bots.
If we've chatted before feel free to hit me up again. I can't tell who is online from Reddit chat. Maybe because I use a laptop and not a phone so I can type like a real human being /s
I like being goofy and riffing on pretty much whatever, but I'm also a pretty good listener and will listen to woes and venting.
I procrastinate like I took a sacred, holy vow to do so. Like most with this predicament, I do not like this state of affairs. If you need a friend to give you validation for dong tiny task 1-3 of large task 509, and you can reciprocate, we could become quasi-productive in no time.
Anyway hit me up if you want to chat. 18+ and all that of course.
submitted by Junk-Sequence--- to MeetNewPeopleHere [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 23:45 TheDirtyBollox Irish youth and harmless shenanigans

Had a lad do a "knick-knack" (how I know it) or "knock a dolly" (how the wife knows it) this evening. Ding dong ditch I think is a us term for it.
Anyway, lad knocked and legged it, took me a moment or two to realise what had happened. Gobshite that he was though, was caught on the ring camera and was using crutches...
Anything anyone can think of that's harmless fun that the "yutes" are still up to today?
submitted by TheDirtyBollox to AskIreland [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 23:21 heehhehehehheeh Ding bats is a free mobile game

Ding bats is a free mobile game submitted by heehhehehehheeh to GeometryDashReference [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 22:34 ijustcametosay_hello 1 wild fig bdc at Marshall’s

1 wild fig bdc at Marshall’s
This is in Colma today, Sunday 5/18 1:30pm. I found 2 and left the 1 in the endcap (front) for you. there are also invisible shield in the locked case with the skincare along with a ton of innisfree and biossance etc.
submitted by ijustcametosay_hello to glossier [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 21:00 downvote727 Mmm you touch my tralala

Mmm my ding ding dong
submitted by downvote727 to sperm [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 20:47 Drfranch "Do not go gentle into that good night"

submitted by Drfranch to starcitizen [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 20:32 copperstatelawyer [WTS] Leonardo Momento Magico Matte Black 14k, Pilot Ballpoint 91, Toyooka Small Trays

Pens & Trays include USA shipping.
https://imgur.com/a/MSMNaDc
Leonardo Momento Magico Matte Black Anima Nera ST 14k Medium Nib [A2] - $300 $229 Pending
Filled once, have too many pens, not going to use it as much as it should be used. Includes box.
Pilot 91 Ballpoint [b1] - $49
Been on a ballpoint buying spree. :\ Need to cull the herd. Not sure if I have the box, but I might.
https://imgur.com/a/lkfmIyK
Toyooka Craft Pen Tray Small sc101 (Fits 6 pens) [b1 & b2]- $200 for the lot of five
Most of them are in pretty darn pristine condition or excellent. Hardly any signs of use. You'd have to look pretty hard. One has a couple dings in the side. If the lot doesn't sell, I'll break it up into $50 each plus shipping and $45 for the dented one. OR if five people want one, I'll break it up. Currently at 2.
Ink Lot - Colorverse Horsehead, Crabhead, gray one & Waterman Serenity Blue - $30 shipped pending
Barely used, 90%+ filled.
Ballpoint Refills & ink cartridges - Free with pen purchase or $10 shipping
I've got Schmidt rollerballs, Pelikan BP, and various other stuff. Acroball black fine. The stuff in the photo basically. Just trying to get it to someone who'll use it. Also have 30ml Deep Dark Orange and Waterman Serenity.
Click the photo for more.
submitted by copperstatelawyer to Pen_Swap [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 20:13 ProfessorBusy9009 Type shi

Type shi submitted by ProfessorBusy9009 to JanitorAI_Official [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 18:35 Grand_Reanimation Chapter 3

Chapter 3
[Self-note: (///) 3 slashes means a scene change] "...I came to this city just a few months ago… and I'm from…" Rakvill".
Everyone gazed at Abhi with a stunned look, which was continued by a period of absolute silence, making the atmosphere feel almost deafening. There was no sound inside a room full of dozens of people. Even then one could not even hear the ticks of a clock, because it seemed as if time itself had frozen over….
Ms. Oxlong expresses a subtle smirk, and suddenly speaks up and breaks the eerie silence.
"Okie Dokie, so we are finally finished with the introductions, so let's start with our history lecture, for today I and all other subject teachers will just give you the schematics of their respective subject's curriculum".
The class got to writing down the teacher's instructions, but all of them were still subtly observing Abhi like vultures eyeing their prey. The reveal of him being from the one place anyone was forbidden from entering or leaving was unforgettable. The class went through the day but the gossip about Abhi didn't stop. Near the end of the fifth hour-long period, the gossip had calmed down but wasn't dormant.
Ding! Tring! Tring! A 1-hour break starts as the 5th period comes to an end. Students were told to leave in an orderly cue rather than rush outside of the class. All students followed this rule, well except Veer, Kevin, and Dep. The same kids who made the 'triangle of disturbed faces' rushed outside as soon as the recess bell rang. Unlike them, Abhi decided to follow the protocol and leave the class In an orderly manner.
While walking towards the exit, Abhi suddenly gets pushed and crashes against the blackboard and falls down hard. It looked like a fat kid pushed Abhi.
"Oh hey, didn't see you there." Said the fat kid with a subtle grin on his face.
"It's alright." Said Abhi as he moved forward his hand, so he could be assisted in getting up.
"Hmph." Instead of helping Abhi stand up, the fat kid just snorted a condescending laugh and went out the exit ignoring Abhi and leaving his hand hanging in the air.
"Welp, it is what it is." Said Abhi to himself while getting up on his own.
Abhi reached the hallway, and for a minute he just stood there, sometimes even losing his balance and shaking heavily; suddenly his eyes sparked with a sense of purpose. He then turned left, walked past a few crossways, turned left again, and then finally turned right.
"I guess the washrooms are easy to find". After Abhi was done with his business in the washroom. He found the school's kitchen and lunchroom as easily as he found the washroom…. Almost too easily.
Kolar was a Giant establishment; sometimes even the people working there were lost in the maze of its corridors, but that didn't seem to be a problem for Abhi.
Kolar served a free "Mid-Day Meal" to all of its subjects. The students didn't have to bring their own food, but as Kolar was a school filled with privileged rich kids, most of them brought their own food. The free food was great, Kolar kids were tripping. Abhi collected the community plates and the Mid-day meal from the kitchen and walked into the lunchroom.
As he was walking, other students placed their bags on empty chairs or shifted their chairs away if Abhi came near their table in an attempt to disprove his sitting with them. The rumors had spread, and Abhi was now not only infamous in his class but also in the entire school for being from Rakvill. Abhi didn't seem to notice this and kept walking. He was walking even though his legs were wobbly and he was moving in a way that lacked any resemblance of direction or balance and yet still his eyes displayed a sense of purpose almost as if he knew where he was going.
///
"Can you believe what just happened!?"
"Holy crap I was so scared."
"I know right, I almost thought he was onto us."
Said Veer, Dep, and Kevin respectively. They were sitting under a large old tree which had an elevated stone plateau covering its roots. The plateau acted as a bench for them to eat lunch at. This place was in an unpopular spot on the outskirts of the HS Kolar campus. The three of them had taken this spot as their secret meeting place.
"When out of nowhere the President said that. I almost shat my pants." Said Veer in a frantic yet relieved tone.
"Yeah, and to top it all the camera was zoomed to his eyes…. It felt like he was looking into my soul, I'm feeling chills just thinking about it." Said Dep.
"I wasn't scared or anything but I was surprised too yeah," said Kevin, in a pretty… unconvincing tone.
"Ha-ha, sure buddy," replied Dep while laughing at his unconvincing claim.
"Anyways, I don't think he was talking about us." Veer intervened.
"Ha-ha, if he really knew about us researching the 'Incident 99' of Rakvill we would've been in Jail by now." Replied Kevin.
"Yeah, but forget that and get serious. Dep, did you transcribe everything the president was saying?" Said Kevin.
"Sure did, as soon as the President was done greeting us, I immediately got to work." Replied Dep while she pulled out a sheet of paper from her school bag with some… scribbles. No writing, some writing on it...
"Great work. Let's analyze what that bozo had to say." Said Kevin.
"Ok but let's keep it down, someone might hear us," Dep told Kevin.
"Now, why in God's Green Earth would the goddamn president of the country tell such a critical piece of information to a bunch of students. Also, your handwriting sucks ass Dep." Said Veer while looking at the transcription paper.
"Shut up! Or you can become the transcriber." Said Dep while scrunching her eyes and looking at Veer.
"Shhh! You are the one who told us to keep it quiet. Anyways he really tried to say that the freaking government needs help from a bunch of teenagers to "collect information". Who the hell is going to buy that." Said Kevin.
"I know right, it seems so fishy, like why was this video so well made? It came with all the well-researched graphics and visuals one could find, wasn't this supposed to be some kind of emergency message? It's so obvious that it's propaganda." Said Veer while laughing in an irritated and smug manner.
"Let's be honest, most of them are still going to blindly believe in the president and try to unironically act like some kind of agents doing research to save the country. Said Dep while grimacing.
"Ha-ha what a bunch of NPCs." Said Veer. "Wait, isn't that exactly what we are doing though?" Said Kevin.
"Well, now that you say it like that…. Didn't we start our research by calling ourselves the 'Agents of Information abduction'." Said Dep while laughing at herself upon seeing the irony.
"Ha-ha. Let's just not think about that… Anyways, let's go through the transcription chronologically to research clearly. Also, give me some of that Paneer Tikka Veer." Said Kevin while licking his lips like it was his first time seeing food.
All 3 of them were sitting in a triangle on top of the bench with the Tree in the middle, their tiffins were in the middle. They were sharing each other's meals and enjoying each other's snacks while talking.
"Alright, so to start off he tells everyone the war with Pakistan is not truly over or at least the danger isn't over, and that we are still in danger of getting attacked by freaking terrorists." Dep Narrates the transcription while paraphrasing it.
"Why would you risk instilling fear in some teenage students like this, there has to be a special reason behind the president telling us about this." Said Kevin.
"Agreed, I have a theory that this whole video was made TO instill fear. Fear wasn't a negative byproduct but the desired outcome. I don't have anything to base it off of as it's just a hunch, but a strong hunch I'll tell you that much." Replied Veer while chomping down some of his Paneer Tikka.
"Also, if we take the president's claims that this is being revealed for that "task of collecting information" seriously, why would he tell all the details to a bunch of 11th graders? Kolar has branched into being a university as well, wouldn't it be a far better idea to only let the students over 18 hear this? Why would he involve us minors?" Said Dep while also chomping down some of Veer's Paneer Tikka.
"Also, the forces of both Pakistan and India tried their best to push Incident 99 under the rug. Seems weird for the two countries going at all-out war to stop and cooperate to cover up something and then just a few months later the president tells a bunch of students that the war really isn't over yet... what the hell?" Said Kevin while also chomping down some of Veer's Paneer Tikka.
"For real, this has some deeper agenda behind it. Also, what do you guys think about the agents spread over the entire city? That seems like a good excuse to make his claim about us being in danger sound more genuine. AND LEAVE SOME PANEER FOR ME!" Said Veer while snatching back his food before its devoured.
"It's also a good way to keep an eye on us… It's going to be far harder to conduct our research now isn't it." Said Kevin. Come on one more bite
"Whatever the agenda might be, it has been well planned out. Nixtom being near the western border, and having a weak military would be sufficient precursors to warrant a safety measure for a terrorist attack." Said Dep.
"Yes, the precursors are valid, but I still don't think we are really in danger of getting attacked anytime soon." Said Veer.
"I agree, it sounds like another attempt at brainwashing. A well-planned attempt though, because I can't even tell what the goal of all this is. Regardless, there is realistically no reason for us to believe that we are truly in danger of a terrorist attack." Said Kevin.
"Fair, so Dep, what else can you see in that transcribed paper." Said Veer. I can't read that 'handscribbling' on my own
"Let me see…Wow! I didn't realize this while hearing it, but now that it's put in front of my eyes on a paper, did you guys see just HOW much our school and the students are being complimented…,". Said Dep
"We can't read that; it seems to be written in an obscure ancient language." Said Kevin while giving a smug look to Dep.
"Shut up, my handwriting is not that bad… Also, the President is even calling us the 'future of the nation', 'some of the most educated people in this nation'. Even saying stuff like 'HS Kolar will triumph over any task', etc."
Said Dep while pointing at the transcription paper.
"Seems like an attempt at convincing the students that they are capable of handling a task such as this." Said Kevin...
Veer said to Kevin: "No… Okay, maybe to some extent that was the intended outcome. But I feel like the president would have kept the compliments much lower and far vaguer if that's the only thing he wanted to achieve. I believe his goal with those compliments was something bigger, something more, sinister" ...
///
"Did the plan succeed?"
"Yes, it went even better than we could have anticipated. The information I got from my agents tells me that he is already being treated with indifference." Said Vishva Pratap Raghavan, The President of India residing in the Capital: Delhi.
The president was sitting behind his desk in a grand room filled with important articles such as government documents, photos of his party plastered all over the wall, a tricolor flag of India beside his desk, etc.
Facing the president sat the only other man in the room. This unknown man had bandages wrapped around his head masking his eyes and ears.
A symbol of a large and detailed eye was present on the frontal region of the bandages, exactly between the place his eyes should've been. The bandages didn't cover the top of his head and this opening showed a head full of stunning silvery white hair. The man spoke:
"You call that a success? How was the necessary information revealed to the students, did I not make myself clear when I said we are to reveal his background at a later date through rumors?"
"I apologize, but we weren't the ones who revealed this information." Said Vishva the president.
"What! Then who did?"
"'It' did…. It revealed the information itself."
///
"Something more sinister? And what is that?" Said Kevin.
"I can't really put a finger on it, but it felt like the president was trying to invoke a sense of… patriotism? Or some form of mob mentality amongst the students, by praising our land and school." Replied Veer.
"Interesting, why do you think he would do that?" Asked Dep.
"I thought so too, why would the president intentionally try to make everyone more patriotic for no reason?" Said Kevin.
"I'm not sure, it's also entirely possible that we are just over-analyzing this and the president did really only glaze our school and land to make us feel more capable of doing the given task.
There are some other possibilities though. At the start of the war, these types of over patriotic promotions were all over the media, we even saw some propaganda posters right outside our houses too." Said Veer.
"True, this over-patriotic propaganda also led to the spread of religious hatred, which actually worked out well for the government as more people started joining the military. For both the increased patriotism and the hatred for the other group." Said Kevin.
"So, are you trying to say that the president made the video as a catalyst of hate towards a group? Or maybe even an individual?" Said Dep.
"I see where this is going. We thought that the sudden talk about "Researching Rakvill being forbidden" was directed towards us as a warning to stop our research, but it wasn't. What the president could have been doing is encouraging indifference towards someone specific, not us, but him..." Kevin said.
Dep intervened while nodding her head after coming to a realization. "You guys are talking about that kid from Rakvill aren't you."
///
"What do you mean 'it' revealed the information itself?"
"Apparently, the class was having an introduction session. And when it tried to introduce itself, it blurted out where it came from..."
"Interesting…" The Masked man lets out a sigh and started to grimace ear to ear.
"Did I… did I say something wrong this time too." Said Vishva the president.
"No Vishva, you did not make a mistake this time. Maybe… Maybe it was me who did.
"I don't seem to understand."
"Our plan was to spread rumors about 'it' being from Rakvill, so it would be treated with indifference and hate by all which would've led to 'him' reaching the necessary 'Highs' or 'Peaks'."
"Has anything changed with the plans, with these turn of events I mean?"
"It has… if it were to hide about its previous 'home', and we were to spread rumors about him being from Rakvill it would have still been treated with indifference but along with that most people would've also not trust in it, but now that it has revealed such an important aspect about himself in pure nativity itself. It has created a potential for 'trust' and therefore by extension opened up a room of potential for acquaintances… Acquaintances who could be obstacles in reaching our desired 'Peaks'."
"So…. Has our plan failed?" Asked Vishva
"Not in the slightest. It has just become more… interesting."
"I am glad."
"But we may need to use that boy now"
"It would be my pleasure." ...
"Just a matter of time now, soon
we could use 'it' as a…
///
"Yup, I was flabbergasted when he said he is from Rakvill in front of the whole class. And bro was literally standing next to me, so it hit me way harder than it did for you guys." Veer said.
"Yep haha, I could totally guess because your face definitely showed the emotion you were feeling. Your mouth was wide open like comically WIDE! Open." Replied Dep while her and Kevin laughed.
"Bruhhhhh"
"On a serious note, do you guys think he was telling the truth?" Asked Kevin.
"I mean why would he lie; it didn't seem like he was joking either." Answered Veer
"True, why would he tell a lie that would cover him in such bad stigma." Said Dep.
"Ok, so if he really was telling the truth, he would be of great help to us as a lead. Can we trust him to maybe join us?" Asked Kevin.
"No way man, just the thought of that scares me. You do realize we would be charged with treason if our research was leaked. I am not taking any risks with people I don't absolutely trust." Said Veer.
"Honestly I'm going to have to agree with Veer here, it's far too risky to let him join us, we don't even know for sure if he is from Rakvill or not." Said Dep.
"Alright maybe not join us but, we could still use him as…
///
...as a key to unlock the TRUTH!"" ....
///
Suddenly an unknown person appears behind Veer.
"Yo! Mind if I sit with you guys for lunch".
...…
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2024.05.18 17:38 MrMatar18 Ding dong

Ding dong submitted by MrMatar18 to BellHeads [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 17:02 RetardedReindeer [S][USA-NC] Canon 80D Body

Selling this for a friend. The body is in great condition, no major marks or dings to mention. The rear LCD is immaculate and the top LCD is also great, just a few light scratches. Sensor is very clean. Shutter count is at 38k. Only things included are body cap, Canon battery, dual charger + micro USB cable (not pictured). Price is $385 shipped with any fee free payment, +3.5% if Paypal G&S. I'll cover shipping. Photos can be found here!
submitted by RetardedReindeer to photomarket [link] [comments]


http://rodzice.org/