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[trashmouth-richie]

I feel like I’m really bad at prompts so I’m just gonna go with my “do’s” from costar today…

Stomping. Instant coffee. Cold* shower.

*“Cold” autocorrected to “come” and I almost didn’t fix it, soooo…do with that what you will.

OH MY LOVE.

hoping my slutty choices for this prompt find you well.

18+, no minors, acts of sex, yay.

**peep my little hints at 90s tv and movies—there are 4 🖤

<1k

send me a prompt from this post ! (writers block is killing me !)

Cold beads of water trickle like ice down your body. Making your already pert nipples stand at attention and harden in an instant. 

Cursing the boy you’ve been best friends with since diapers, you turn the faucet off in a quickened haste— exiting the tub in an anything but graceful fashion, stubbing your toes on the way out. 

“Eddie!” your shrill voice is clouded by the throbbing in your foot and the chatter in your teeth. “Did you pay the water bill?”  

One job, the menace had one job— one duty for the small shared apartment, and it was to pay the water bill each month. 

Wrapping yourself in a threadbare towel that had once been a swim towel for an uppity family— you stomp down to his bedroom, kicking open the door with enough rage to channel Jackie Chan.

You should have knocked. Fuck, why didn’t you knock? 

Eddie was naked.

Pale-moon colored ass on display. 

Thigh muscles rippled beneath dark patchwork tattoos, arms that never looked muscly suddenly flexed tight. A veiny hand wrapped tight around a black haired pony tail. Hips, his hips were— fucking, thrusting, pounding. 

His mouth was slack, slick like an oil painting, head back and eyes rolled to squinted ivory surrounded with a colossal woodland of thick lashes.

Sweat coated his brow, dribbling down until it collected on his cupids bow, a salty pooled tease. His rougey lips were spit coated, sheer— glossy— begging for your tongue to taste them. 

Your heart thumped loudly, heat in your core on its own tempo, hot and deep. 

And then you hear it. 

A whimper. Softer than silk, low, whiny, almost sweetly pathetic in its delivery from a deep space in his throat. 

Your cheeks warm, cunt heated like a fire, sirens going off for extreme temperatures. 

Oh—fuck.

His eyes meet yours and you hold his gaze for a second. The clouded look of a man being sucked dry took over his normal instant coffee colored irises. Glaucoma esque beauty in the dark swirls, and you wet your lips at the sight of him— at Eddie Munson— resident freak of Hawkins and your best friend. 

Jesus.

Both your lips explicitly mutter words with eyes wild doe like. His going from lazy pleasure to shock. Yours were covered with your palm, the other reaching, fumbling for the door knob. 

Apologizing profusely you suddenly stammer around clearing your throat and trying to leave ASAP. 

The towel around your middle, the only thing keeping you decent, glides to the ground—falling gently like that fucking feather in opening scenes of Forest Gump. Practically in slow motion but still too quick for your blind shut eyes to catch it. 

Fuck.

Pulling with both hands on the knob your heart races to shut the door, not registering that the towel is wedged tight between the frame, making it impossible to shut. 

Shit shitshitshitshitSHIT

With a last feeble attempt of yanking your arms, the latch clicks into place and you beeline to your room with a slam of your door so hard it ricocheted off the walls, making a framed picture of you and Eddie at a Metallica concert fall to the ground, shattering the glass.

What the fuck? WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?!

Your heart boomed in your ears, back stuck to the door like you were holding it up. It wasn’t the first time you’d seen Eddie naked, pretty sure your entire graduating class saw him naked on more than one occasion. But this?! This was so mouthwatering better than any other time. 

Goosebumps spread across your skin at the burned image of Eddie getting head on your retinas. The two of you had never crossed those lines. Each dating, fucking around it never once crossed your mind what he would be like in the sack, or what his sack would be like in your mouth. 

You’re pleased when you don’t cringe at the dirty thoughts of him— it felt like second nature, like eve seeing adam —lol okay maybe not, but still! What your mind was conjuring up was biblical. 

A giggle surpasses your lips and you wipe a line of drool from the corner of your mouth. Nerves finally settling as your realization hits— who was it?

It wasn’t Sarah, you hadn’t seen her since last fall. Eddie had said she started dating Steve—his comic book “arch nemesis” but in reality another bestie, who spent most of his time wallowing on your couch about Nancy than he did actually going on dates. 

Mary ended up being a virgin—preacher’s daughter, one of seven. He stopped seeing Clarissa after she wouldn’t stop over explaining every single minute detail of her day. Could it be the girl with the green leather jacket? Darla? Daria? 

The horny ache in your belly soured like curdled milk. 

How dare her (whoever she was!) The thought of someone other than you pulling those noises from Eddie suddenly set you on edge. Rage burned through your veins like lightning. Spidering and leeching to your skin. 

The pajamas you had taken off before your shower lay in a heap on your floor and you quickly yanked them on. Muttering to yourself about every vile thing you could imagine about whoever the lucky girl was who currently had a mouthful of your roommate. 

You needed to leave. The clouds of embarrassment eased overhead, colliding with the lightning making a storm brew deep beneath your surface and you be damned if you were going to let the rain fall whilst still in this apartment. 

Keys in your palm you throw open your bedroom door, ready to bolt through your apartment and down to your car— destination unknown. 

You nearly knock him over in your attempt to run. But you’re stopped cold by sweaty bangs, a heaving chest, and the same stupid pair of boxers that had small tears along the elastic from years of wear. 

“Sweetheart…” he coaxed, voice so sugary and laced with tiny shreds of venom it could ice a wedding cake— then strike you dead. 

You had seen plenty of Eddie today, your body screamed for you to leave, but your feet were stuck in the icing, waiting for the bomb to drop. 

Warmth from your cheeks from your shame could keep a trailer with broken windows warm in a blizzard—your stomach flipped— dropped like lead as his next words hit like a bullet. 

“We need to talk.” 

part two

steve tied up

[aayakashii]

It seems I haven't quite had my fill of cuteness. So I humbly ask for part 4 of the plushie series with Luca, Ritsu, Zenji, Tohma, and Rui.

It's ok if you don't want to also

The most requested thing!! hehehe |ू´꒳`) I'm really happy you guys like the plushie headcanons, and thanks to the anon who originally requested it a few months ago too!!

Part 1, part 2, part 3

How Tokyo Debunker boys react after receiving a cute little plushie from MC – Luca, Ritsu, Zenji, Tohma, Rui, Ed and Lyca

Lucas Errant – husky plushie

Extremely happy that he is receiving such a thoughtful gift from you!

He never truly allowed himself to play with toys because of his studies, and then came the guilt of losing his brother… Letting himself relax like that barely ever crossed his mind.

So he doesn't really know what to do???

He just perches the cute plushie on his desk and politely greets it whenever he leaves his room and gets back.

He's a bit confused, but he's got the spirit!

Since the husky is always on his desk, it kinda becomes his study buddy really quick too.

Luca ends up reciting his notes to it and reading his books out loud, so it helps him get even better grades (if that's even possible).

He notices this and IMMEDIATELY goes to thank you.

He is 100% sure that you had this crazy elaborate plan to make him get better grades, which is why you made the plushie for him.

Now he’s asking you to maybe make one for Kaito so he stops going to so many remedial classes…

Because he’s denser than a (quickly researches what is the densest rock in the world) peridotite

And doesn’t realize that you gave him a handmade gift because you LIKE him........

He’ll have to ask someone for help after you get upset with him because of this.

Because the husky plushie definitely doesn’t know either and, for some reason, Kaito just refuses to help him!

Cut him some slack… he’s just dense. Like a peridotite.

Shinjo Ritsu – otter plushie

"For me?"

"Yes."

"I believe you are aware that a gift, in the law of property, is the voluntary and immediate transfer of property from one person to another and in order for the it to be legally effective it has to have donative intent, the delivery of the gift to the donee, and the acceptance of the gift."

“Okay...?”

“Therefore I accept the gift.”

“Cool…”

Congratulations, you have just given Ritsu his first official associate.

Or at least this is what he says to himself in his mind.

He was trained to become a lawyer since he was a little kid, so he never thought about playing with toys that much (and his father didn’t push him to do so as well).

But he gotta admit, having a handmade plushie, something his partner (as in business partner! Don’t get him wrong!) made for him exclusively does bring a feeling of joy he never quite felt before.

If anyone so much as THINK about touching his gift, he will be ready to recite the entire constitution, and every single law they broke, AND declare how many years they’ll get in prison just for touching his little otter friend.

He takes things such as private property very seriously after all.

He won’t take the plushie everywhere with him (what about safety?), but he does keep it right next to him in bed when he’s reviewing all the records he made throughout the day.

For a second, he wonders if he could sneak a camera into a plushie and give it to you, but oh no, that would be an invasion of privacy!

Or at least only until he finds a loophole in the law.

Kotodama Zenji – koi plushie

"My dear!!! Oh you truly are the most lovely flower to ever grace this earth! If my heart could still beat, it would be racing for you!!"

You managed to steal a little beaded bracelet artifact, something weak (or at least you hope so), and tied it on the plushie's tail.

And your theory was successful! Zenji could actually touch it, just like he could carry his doll due to its anomalous properties.

To say he’s absolutely SMITTEN with the plushie is an understatement.

He loves anything artistic and knowing that you spent your precious time creating that cute plushie for him makes him so so happy!

WILL carry it everywhere and write ballads about the koi. And poems. And he will read every single myth involving kois and post them on his youtube channel as well (please like and subscribe... PLEASE...)

Haku has the time of his life laughing at Zenji, because now he carries his doll, his biwa AND his plushie everywhere.

If you keep giving him gifts, he might actually need a whole cart to carry everything around him.

The little koi and the doll become his most loyal fans, and his company during nighttime, when everyone’s asleep.

If you see a koi plushie outside your window, don’t freak out. It’s just Zenji watching you sleep again.

He has the habit of calling the doll "his brother" and now he’s gonna call the koi plushie "his dearest".

The two people he cares about the most, right there in his arms: Jiro and you.

Ishibashi Tohma – orca plushie

"Oh? I wonder what made you think I am fit for receiving such an adorable little gift."

Tohma… does not know what to do with the gift you just gave him.

Don’t get him wrong, he appreciates it! Truly. He is mesmerized by the fact that you made a whole orca plushie with your own hands.

But he also doesn’t see how someone as intimidating as him deserves such an adorable gift.

Maybe all those months serving someone else with little appreciation made him forget how it feels to be pampered…

He places the plushie in the vault, right on his desk, and it becomes his companion when he needs to go through paperwork.

Tohma tried giving it a hug once and he got so damn sleepy RIGHT AWAY that now he just pats its head whenever he needs to take a break.

That little thing is dangerous, making him feel so comfortable… He can’t sleep, he’s a busy man! A little headpat to acknowledge the plushie will have to suffice.

However, he still hasn’t tried taking the plushie to his room yet.

He’s quite worried that his sleep will just be filled with dreams about you.

And oh dear... it'd be way too tough to wake up from something pleasant like that.

Mizuki Rui – black bunny plushie

You torture him, being so cute!

A plushie? For him? A black bunny you made with your own hands?!

He wishes he could squish you to death, but that could become quite literal if he actually touched you.

So instead, he squeezes the hell out of the bunny.

Absolutely loves the gift and takes it EVERYWHERE with him.

It basically becomes his bar’s little mascot.

He kisses the bunny’s cheeks every single time he lays his eyes on it. There’s a good morning kiss, a good afternoon kiss, a good evening kiss, plenty of see you later kisses… (he just wishes he was actually kissing you).

Rui will definitely get little accessories for the bunny and maybe even get matching ones for you.

He will also name it some variation of your name and refer to it during conversations as if he was talking about an actual living being.

Lyca and Ed are forced to acknowledge the bunny as their new dorm mate, but won’t let Rui get the bunny its own room because that would be too much!!

Oh, Rui will also buy a bottle of your perfume to spray on the plushie so when he hugs it, it smells like you

What? No, of course that’s not creepy at all, silly! He just loves everything about you, including your perfume!

Edward Hart – ram plushie

Oya, look at what his lovely human brought to him. And you made it yourself? Wonderful.

He has watched plenty of DIY tutorials on youtube, but was always too lazy to go through with them.

Now that he knows you’re skillful with your hands, though? Expect plenty of requests. Maybe do a little bat for him next, what do you think?

The little ram probably becomes the only clean thing in his room, despite Ed holding it all the time when he’s bedrotting.

(That’s because Rui cleans it frequently. He doesn’t want you to think your gift went underappreciated)

And when I say constantly, I mean CONSTANTLY.

Something cute and comfy to hold while he rewatches that 10 hour conspiracy iceberg video for the 5th time? That is exactly what he needs.

He will try to take pictures of the ram watching videos with him for you, but it will be terribly unfocused.

You appreciate the thought despite that!

You don’t appreciate the message he sent though...

"Hello My Dear 😘❗️I Just Had To Show You This 📷❗️Look At How My New Little Friend 🐏 Is Watching Youtube 💻 With Me 🦇❤️ He Just Absolutely Loves ❤️ To Watch ✨️ Conspiracy Videos✨️ With Me 🦇 I Tried Inviting Lyca🐺 Too But He Won’t Reply To My Messages ✉️🚫😢 I Wonder Why 🤔❓️ Please Come Visit Me Anytime 👋🏰🥀 We’d Love To Watch Things With You👨‍❤️‍💋‍👨😘💋"

Lyca Colt – wolf plushie

“What's this?”

“It's a gift for you. I made it.”

“What do I do with it?”

“Um... nothing. You can cuddle it when you sleep, I guess?”

“Hmpft! I'm not a child, I don't need to cuddle things!!”

Don't worry, he thanks you properly after Rui scolds him and tells him to express gratitude when he gets gifts.

He is a little bit rough with it at first, since he never had a toy before, but he quickly gets extremely possessive of it and starts treating the plushie with a lot more care.

He WILL growl and bite if someone tries to take it from him.

Lyca kind of acts like a big brother to his wolf plushie, taking him to his favorite spots and explaining the things he learned to it (he needs to practice after all!)

The plushie becomes a nice reminder of you. Whenever he thinks about doing something he shouldn’t, he looks at the wolf’s beady eyes and thinks of yours as well.

Who would’ve thought this would be such a sure-fire way to make him behave a bit more.

Rui, however, is absolutely exasperated because he just knows that plushie will be another thing that will desperately need washing SOON and Lyca just won’t let him clean it.

Lyca eventually wraps his plushie in his stinky baby blanket (much to Rui’s despair) and cuddles with it to sleep every night.

His dreams become all about you, so don’t worry in case he has a little bit of a hard time looking at you the next day (and a little blush on his cheeks). It’s a little hard to explain!

Full masterlist

[lightandheatao3]

The Bunker - Criminal Minds

Chapter 11: The Bolt

Summary: Spencer Reid wakes up in a locked bunker to find half the current BAU and two of its departed members unconscious on the floor. The old team is back together but the reunion is not what any of them would have wished for. An Unsub from their past has decided it's time they all stop keeping secrets, even if it means exposing them by force.

Hotch and Derek have been pulled back into a world they tried to escape. Emily, Rossi, and JJ are doing their best to keep it together. Spencer is falling apart.

AKA a found family is reunited and forced to go through the most nightmarish version of family therapy imaginable.

Set months after the end of Criminal Minds: Evolution. Evolution referenced, but not necessary to understand the story.

Chapter Summary: Spencer has a plan. Derek wants to talk.

Read chapter 11 on AO3 or under the cut. Please check AO3 for content warnings. All comments and reblogs are extremely appreciated <3 I would love to know what you like about the story :)

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10

He twisted the bolt, gripping it with all the meager strength he could muster. For the first time, he was truly glad that the others had refused to let his muscles atrophy into nothing, despite his protests.

His finger tips had developed calluses over the past five food delivery cycles since he’d started working the thick, entrenched bolt loose. It was spot welded, but water had dripped onto it and anointed it with blessed rust.

In stolen moments, when nobody was paying enough attention to wonder why he lingered just that little bit longer at the sink, he worked away at it.

Now, as they all slept, he gave it one final twist.

Then it was his.

The rusted, two inch long, half inch thick bolt sat in his palm looking entirely not worth the effort. It was brittle, but it had a surprisingly sharp edge on the bottom.

It was fine. It was good enough to serve its purpose.

Now, it was all about the timing.

The next delivery would be soon after they all woke up, if everything went to schedule. They had built their sleep cycle around it, so it resembled something like breakfast.

He had to make his move when he knew she’d be watching.

Quick enough that the others couldn’t stop him. Effective enough that she would have to intervene immediately, without having time to gas them.

A shuffling sound from somewhere to his left alerted him that one of the others was awake.

Just in time, he deftly slid the bolt into the hole he’d created in the elastic waistband of the scrub pants the Unsub had dressed him in. The years of practicing sleight of hand as a child had payed dividends throughout his adult life.

“What are you doing?” whispered a groggy Derek, leaning against the empty door frame of the tiny, prison-like bathroom.

“Just needed some water,” he whispered back. “Couldn’t sleep.”

It felt like they were meeting in the dead of night, like it should be dark. It reminded him of the whispered moments they used to have in dark motel rooms on cases when neither of them could keep the nightmares at bay.

Derek folded his arms over his chest. “I’m glad I got you alone for a second,” he said, glancing backwards to where the others soundly slept. “I want to talk to you.”

He sat down on the closed toilet lid like it was a chair. Spencer considered dodging past him, but instead he leaned back so he was sitting on the edge of the low sink. It almost felt like they had privacy.

“What’s up?” asked Spencer, like they’d just run into each other at the water cooler at work.

Whatever Derek had to say, hopefully he would get it over with quickly. He wanted to care, really. He did. But he had more important things to focus on than trying to conjure up his absentee feelings for a heart to heart.

“I just wanted to say… You know I love you, right?” he said, nudging Spencer's leg with his foot. “I know I’ve been kind of a dick, but it’s just because…” he looked out at the grey concrete and the solid steel door. “Well. You know.”

Spencer softened. Something close to sympathy crept its way through the invisible glass bubble that was separating him from the rest of them, and he almost felt it for real. “I know,” he said. “Me too.”

“Good,” said Derek. “Because I’m worried about you, pretty boy. You’re really freaking me out.”

Spencer stared at him blankly. “I think you have bigger things to worry about right now, man.”

Derek huffed. “Maybe. But I’ve got a bad feeling. I mean, none of us are really okay right now. I get that. I know I’m not. But you’re being weird, even for you. Do you realize you’ve stopped quoting statistics at us? You’ve been in the hospital recovering from gunshot wounds and still quoting stats at me,” he said. “I don’t like you being this quiet.”

“I don’t have any good statistics for this situation,” he said. “Do you really want to hear the chances of us being found alive after so long?”

“It’s not just that,” said Derek. “It’s like a part of you has shut off. I’m worried. I’ve seen you do some reckless, self-destructive shit over the years, especially when you get it into your head that it’s the only way to protect other people.”

Spencer’s mind raced. Could he tell what he was planning? What was he getting at?

“I’m fine,” he said. “I mean, not fine, but you don’t have to worry. It’s like you said, withdrawal has screwed up my neurotransmitter levels, and the lack of vitamin D and iron aren’t doing any of us any favors. But I’ll be okay once we get out of here,” he explained, trying his hardest to sound reassuring despite his complete inability to believe for a single second that he was ever going to be okay again.

Derek smiled tightly, straining to keep his voice light, even as his nails dug into his biceps. “I want to believe that, pretty boy, I really do. But the thing is, I think you were pretty fucked up before we ever woke up in this godforsaken bunker, and that you’ve probably been seriously depressed for a long time, because the thing is, happy people don’t do heroin. And I think if we get out of here, you fully intend to go right back to shooting up.”

He sounded like he was speaking to one of his kids. Spencer had been there once when his son had come home from kindergarten crying because another boy pushed him, and Derek had sounded exactly like this when he tried to talk his son through how to handle the situation.

“What’s your point?” he asked.

He hadn’t intended to sound petulant or sarcastic, but even he could hear how it came across.

Derek grit his teeth. When he spoke, he forgot to whisper. “My point, is if that’s the only future you’re capable of imagining for yourself right now, you might not be motivated to do everything in your power to keep yourself safe.”

Spencer stood up straight.

He knew. Derek knew.

“Whatever happens, Derek, you have to know that I am doing everything I can to get you out of here. To get all of us out,” he said calmly, stepping towards the doorway and the main room.

Derek put his arm across the exit, blocking him in.

“Give it to me, Spencer.”

"Give you what?" he shot back.

"Man, I saw you. You might be quick, but I know what to look for. Just hand it over."

The sound of the others stirring caught both of their attention. “What’s going on?” came JJ’s voice.

As soon as Derek turned his head, he took his shot.

He ducked under his arm and darted into the room, pressing himself against the corner farthest from the half-awake group.

Derek cursed and swung around to face him. The others scrambled to their feet.

“What’s going on?” repeated JJ urgently.

“You’re the one who said it first,” pointed out Spencer, still focused on Derek. “We need to do something extreme.”

“We doesn’t have to mean you, Spencer,” he said, stepping forward.

“Then who? You? I don’t have kids waiting for me to come home to them.”

Four sets of eyes widened in shock and comprehension.

“What are you doing, Spencer?” asked Emily, raising her hands and taking a step forward.

Faster than the rest of them could get to him, he pulled out the bolt, pressing the sharp, ragged end to his wrist. “Stay away!” he shouted.

JJ lunged for him. He pressed harder, ready to move, but Derek grabbed her and hauled her back.

“Everyone calm down!” yelled Derek.

“Spencer, what the fuck are you doing?” shouted Emily, who for the very first time since waking up in the bunker, looked like she was about to fall apart.

He glanced up at the camera. “I wanted to time this better,” he muttered, mostly to himself. “Emily, I’m sorry,” he said, meeting her eyes.

“I know what you’re trying to do,” said Hotch, putting a hand on Emily’s shoulder and as she clasped her hands over her mouth and fought back tears. “This isn’t the way, Reid. We don’t even know if they’re watching.”

“No, but it’s close to the next delivery and she likes to time them for dramatic effect. Have you noticed that? I’m willing to bet she is watching. Besides, I’m on camera now. We won’t have another shot at this.”

Rossi raised his hands. “It doesn’t need to be you. I’m a lot older. I’ve got less on the line.”

“Nobody is doing anything,” said JJ furiously. “This is ridiculous! Don’t you fucking dare, Spencer, or I swear to god I will never forgive you.”

“I’m sorry,” he said again. “There’s no time to discuss it.” He glanced up at the vent, afraid he had already waited too long. “This instrument is imprecise, but if I do it right I'll have three to five minutes. That number goes up if you put pressure on the wound. She won’t have time to knock you out if she wants to save me, so someone is going to be coming into this room. Be ready for it." He took a ragged, steadying breath. "She’s not going to let me die. It’s going to be alright.”

He shot one last guilty look at Emily. This was cruel on all of them, but after everything, it felt like it was cruelest on her.

“You promised me you wouldn’t do this to me,” she said through silent tears.

“I’m sorry,” he said one last time.

He pressed down on the bolt, driving the sharp edge into his wrist hard, and dragging it up his forearm in one swift and violent motion. No hesitation.

Somewhere, a vast distance away, he heard screaming.

He was utterly transfixed as dark, shining red came pouring out of his arm.

After a small eternity, there were people, grasping at him, pulling at his body. The waterfall on his arm was covered by a pair of strong, dark hands, holding his skin together like Atlas held the world.

Oh.

Oh.

There it was.

All those things he hadn’t been feeling, there it all was.

The edges of his vision darkened. All around him there was noise, but he couldn’t extrapolate meaning from any of it.

All that existed in the world was the unyielding, crushing hopelessness that came rushing into his body with every drop of blood that rushed out.

Had this unbearable, all encompassing sadness been with him the whole time?

He’d been telling himself the same thing that he told the rest of them. He was doing this because somebody had to.

He was doing it because he had the least to lose.

He didn’t really believe she’d let him die if she could help it, and if she couldn’t help it, then at least he’d given them a chance. It was a noble sacrifice.

“Hang on, Spencer,” came a voice from somewhere above him. “Just hold on.”

“I’m sorry,” he said again.

As consciousness slipped away from him, he finally understood that the awful truth.

He realized that he didn't really want to wake up.

[rubirose15]

Man I'm so fucking pissed that food service jobs were considered "essential" during the pandemic yet we're treated like shit. Minimum wage, zero respect, insane workload. And everyone views it as an easy job for teenagers. It's fucking not. Not anymore. It's almost factory work and it's because it HAS TO BE. Demand for fast food has grown exponentially in the last decade, honestly even just the last few years due to the rise of delivery apps from covid. However even though the work is literally designed to be done by a full team of people, there's probably only 2-3 people in the store expected to do the work of 4-7 people. And the GM is up your ass about labor even though your boss has already been cutting hours and you're struggling to run the restaurant because of it. And because of high labor you really can't get more than 25 hrs/week. So. Find a second job if you even have time I guess.

I'm just. You have to work with extremely hot oil, heavy machinery, those heavy fucking soda bibs. It's a lot of bending over and lifting heavy objects. A lot of shoulder movement. And you're standing for 4-8 hours at a time. And then you have to talk to customers who don't even see you as a person. Even the nice ones.

The nature of the job is so repetitive and overstimulating. The kitchen is burning hot, the fryers are always hissing or humming, the noise of the printer is so mechanical and jarring, and everyone is yelling for one reason or another. Again these jobs are seen as being for TEENAGERS.

Then on top of that you have to pay attention to the front counter and answer calls. Many stores only have one person on register for cash tracking purposes, and this person is very likely to also be helping prepare and package orders. Again, 2-3 people doing the work of 4-7. It's stressful when you're the only one packing orders and there's a line of people in the front and your only options are to make them wait or abandon your current task.

Ugh, and don't even get me started on coffee shops. The standards set for quick service restaurants like St*rbucks are almost impossible to achieve. Coffee is supposed to take fucking time to make. It's not meant to be pumped out en masse in under 2 minutes. And then it has like all the above problems except the oil, but I have burned myself on portafilters and steam wands.

I don't even know what my point is anymore. Just fucking respect your food service workers. I'm sick of people being like "just do your job. I worked at x in high school and it wasn't that bad." I'm so happy for you. But food service isn't even the same as it was 5 years ago. It's really difficult to remain positive and enjoy your job when your job just hates you so fucking much.

[sanguinifex]

Y’know the “classic children’s literature” canon is largely pretty fucked up.

C.S. Lewis was racist and homophobic and sexist, not to mention Extremely Christian and trying to convert you (seriously, there are exactly 2 books where the bad guys aren’t women or Muslims by another name, and one of those 2 doesn’t even have an antagonist once Eustace gets un-dragoned)

Roald Dahl was notoriously antisemitic and just kind of misogynistic in general. Keeps trying to sell the idea that ugly people are inherently evil and pretty people are inherently good. Also like the Oompa Loompas are a) canonically black in the books and b) slave labor, and this is promoted as positive? Charlie’s dad would’ve had a job if Wonka hadn’t been literally stealing people to avoid paying workers. Also, like, the nerve of leaving a chocolate factory to a random kid who knows nothing about chocolate except it tastes good, when probably at least a dozen of the Oompa Loompas are qualified to run the place. Like, Dahl is great at giving people nightmares, but the inherent assumptions begin the worlds he builds are not something I want to give to a 10-year-old and tell them it’s Great Literature and something to emulate, the way I was. (Also, I was actually 8, come to think of it.)

JKR. Well. Besides the TERFery and racism/antisemitism. There’s just a complete disregard for bodily autonomy that’s so present in her work that it becomes obvious it’s part of how she views the world? Like, it’s supposed to be a funny joke to slip someone a potion that turns them into a canary. Admittedly the delivery of that line was 109% but like. What if he’d got stuck like that? You can’t just transmogrify people like that without asking them. You also shouldn’t do the “muggle” equivalent like putting Nair in someone’s shampoo. That’s assault, Joanie. I think this also feeds into her transphobia, because she just doesn’t seem to have anything that would hold her back from swapping someone’s gender for giggles if she were able to. It’s not just the HP series, either, it’s her works aimed at adults as well. Like, she’d be the type to barge into the bathroom while you’re peeing and then get offended when you’re upset by this because “We’re all girls here.” But oh it’s a modern classic and you have to read it to understand nerd culture…well, you could make that argument 10 years ago but it’s a bit less solid in 2023. I wouldn’t ban a kid from reading it, but I wouldn’t give them a box set. If they brought it home from the library I’d give a quick talk that I’m not mad at them for reading it but they should be aware that the author is a jerk.

Stephanie Meyer: Completely inescapable if you were a tween girl anywhere between 2005 and 2010. You had to plough through 4 doorstoppers of toxic Mormon heterosexuality just to understand what anyone was talking about. Like, I think it should be shelved with a pamphlet about healthy vs unhealthy relationships in it. Also, like, Meyer profited off the names of Native people and didn’t give them a cent. Also Bella you need a vampire like a fish needs a bicycle, just take some vitamin D supplements and you’ll get over him

Again, I’m not saying “don’t read these books.” Many of them are well-written and have historic and sociological and literary value. This post is about how we tell children that these demonstrably bigoted authors, whose bigotry shines through in their writing because they’re too unaware of it to file it down, that these are Great Writers and suitable to emulate. It’s not just that bigotry could be absored by young readers, it’s also that ir build a false foundation that will crumble under literary analysis, creating a life of doubting one’s own word choices, among other problems!

[eolewyn1010]

Charité, season 4 - episode 1

Alright. Let's do this. Consider everything past this point a spoiler, and yourself warned.

The dramatic lighting and music (vocalizing instead of the instrumentals that dominated the Charité music over three seasons) make the first scene appear very stylized, like a theater play. I don't hate it, but it sure is something else. I guess they broke with the continuity when they chose this season's setting.

Post-Corona, and she's not wearing a mask in surgery? Consider me unimpressed.

Ew. What did that poor greenscreen do to you?

"fires in Czechia coming closer to Saxony" - 2049 taking notes from 2022, huh? Ever so optimistic.

At least we get pretty lesbians. In fond memory of Therese...

They sure took the fashion choices in an interesting direction. And by that I mean, eurgh.

Who is this slimeball and can I castrate him.

Heritage of the last several seasons: An uncouth but motherly nurse with a heavy Berlin dialect; every generation needs one.

See, if you can 3D-project shiny holographs into the middle of the room, you should adapt your architecture. An auditorium that uses this technology should be built in a circle around the projector so everyone has the same chances of seeing the goddamn things! Logic, anyone?

In about 25 years, colors in architecture will have died out for good. Depressing, but not unlikely. The look of this place is giving me anxiety.

This woman's mouth movements don't fit her words at all. Why is she dubbed, and why so poorly?

"I don't eat sweets." *has sweets standing next to her* Is she dumb, or does she think Doc Safadi sr. is dumb?

Oh, nice, they have a botanical garden!

Super-quick zoom! Do you see our modern technology? DO YOU SEE IT YET!? More zoom! Sheesh, cut it out.

Why is everyone so awkward / impolite to Julia? Because her wife is pushing the health reform?

Poly marriage. Nice. ...and also, Nachtigall, ick hör dir trapsen.

Maral is ever so charming to Dylan. Isn't it nice to condescend to your co-worker from day 1?

Oh, nice, they all have universal translators. I get that they want to put in a lot of international variety, but why does the girl not speak any German when her mother does?

Take out ovarial tissue? From a teenager??? If she ever decides to have kids, can't she start by trying it the more obvious way? Why take it out in the first place? It's well-kept in her body, isn't it?

This mother is the worst.

Julia actress's delivery of her lines is very inconsistent. Some scenes, she plays good; others, she sounds like a third-grader reciting Erlkönig.

Did they steal that shot from Tatort: Der Herr des Waldes?

This concrete house is as fugly on the inside as it is on the outside. Thanks, I hate it.

Ehm. Okay. ngl, Martin's and Otto's PDA looked a lot more believable. Can you at least commit to your gay smoochies?

Why does the Armenian-German kid have a French name?

Brat wants to join the army for his democratic values. What, does he want to bring freedom to the poor savages? Gawd.

Starting to think Nils and Seda aren't a couple anymore, which makes the friendly relationship they have all the nicer.

Rest of the family is bitching. Greeeaaat.

Giving your doctor false medical information before surgery? Sure, why not! Is everyone here an idiot?

I don't really vibe with these extreme zooms.

Now she's wearing a mask - that's barely even covering her chin, nevermind her nose. Why is this so inconsistent?

Really good of you to treat a dying patient in hearing distance to another patient who has the same disease. Like. Just lock down sound transmission to the neighbor quarantine room?? Why is everyone so illogical?

Yeah, fuck. He's only a background character, so we give up after three attempts.

Maral got her self-righteousness from Seda, huh?

Yay, pandemics! Every generation needs one.

This all sounds very negative because I'm not terribly into the speculative future setting, but honestly, I don't hate watching it. My engagement with it is low in comparison to previous seasons Charité, but it still is interesting. And I'm kinda committed to the trash factor.

[wouldntyou-liketoknow]

Day 7: Needles

(Disclaimer: three of the characters in this story belong to me. You can find more information about Azalea here. For more information about Caliban, go here.  For more information about K.O., go here.  For my personal headcanons on Murdock, who belongs to the Markiplier Cinematic Universe, go here. And if you’d like to learn more about the mob these guys all work for, go here.)

(Additional Note: I got some partial inspiration for this story from this lovely drawing by the extremely talented @rebar2042. Please go give them a follow and share their awesome art!!!) 

(Trigger Warnings: descriptions of illegal business, physical violence, abduction, blood, syringes, poisonous substances, torture, implied dismemberment, implied cannibalism, implied murder, talk of death/dying, strong language. Please let me know if I missed anything.)

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3   Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13

Unless you counted his tinted glasses, Murdock looked absolutely nothing like himself right now. 

In the place of his currant-colored turtleneck and black overcoat was a pale button-up and a half-zipped fleece jacket that was the same shade as a cornflower, complete with a screen-printed logo (an orange circle outlined with white) to match the cap resting atop his head. His raven hair was hidden, tied-back and pulled-up, though some of his bangs peeked out from beneath the rim. 

Murdock understood the importance of disguises; any hitman who didn’t was a moron who could look forward to a career that would last a couple years at most before ending in humiliation rather than mystery. 

Yes, he was more attached to his usual work clothes, but he took satisfaction in that particular sentimentality being more fucked-up than one would probably expect. Aside from that and the business angle of things, costumes really were just a fun concept to play around with. Even now, as he pulled into the cul-de-sac and parked near the curb, the adrenaline that’d already been slithering around his lungs spiked when he glanced at his reflection in the rearview mirror. 

He hopped out, stepping around the decoy mail truck to hoist the back door up. After pulling out the dolly and loading a larger-than-average box onto it, he tucked a much smaller package and a clipboard under his arm and strolled up the driveway of the nearest house.  

Murdock rolled his shoulders, taking a quick, deep breath. He went over the script in his head for what was probably the eighth time today, then reached out and rapped his knuckles against the front door. 

Five seconds or so passed, and then the telltale sound of muffled footsteps approached from the other side. 

Murdock put on a polite, well-rehearsed smile as the door was pulled open.

He immediately had to bite his tongue to keep that smile in place as he registered the man now hovering in the threshold. 

He was the same height as Murdock, appearing a bit older. . .well, that was Murdock’s best guess, at least. The amount of tattoos on his skin was truly shocking. Only a few patches of his natural skin were left in between each of them. 

For the most part, Murdock didn’t really have an opinion on tattoos. He was aware of how painful the process tended to be: therefore, when any of his victims happened to be inked, he tended to take that as something of a personal challenge for interrogation and the like. He knew it was best to avoid getting any himself, and he knew whatever body art anyone else decided to get was none of his business.

But he also knew how the lines between good body art and bad body art were not fine.

At all. 

It seemed his latest target didn’t have that same understanding.

“Delivery for Mr. Abbott Tudye?” Murdock announced, willing his tone to sound lighter than usual. 

“Right on time,” the target replied with a nod. Glancing at the larger package, he backed up a few paces, holding the door open. Murdock took the invitation, dragging the dolly along and leaning it against the nearest wall as the door was closed behind him. 

“I’ll need—” Murdock cut himself off, just barely managing not to swear in surprise at the discovery that his target was among the ranks of people who’d gotten famous online for having actual pictures of faces permanently drawn on the backs of their heads.

The target turned to face him, casually raising an eyebrow. 

Murdock cleared his throat. “I’ll, uh, need a signature for both packages, please,” he amended, holding the clipboard aloft. 

The target blinked at this, but simply shrugged and took the offering into his hands. “. . .Y’know you don’t have to keep that act up in here, right? Suppliers are the last people to tattle on in my book.” He then outstretched his free hand, patronizingly gesturing for Murdock to fork over the smaller package

“Look, those papers are part of the contract. I just want to be thorough” Murdock reported, giving up the box like a good little boy and biting back a grimace at the sight of the back of the target’s hand.

(Was that tattoo seriously supposed to be depicting a lion’s head? If so, then it was proof of miracles, because it would’ve made the damn Gripsholm Lion look natural!)

His sudden surge of disbelief and disappointment was quickly calmed by smugness. He could tell when he was being lied to, but that didn’t really bother him right now. The pack of lies he’d personally help to set up for this job were much more clever. 

“Besides,” he added, ever-so-slightly raising his voice, “you can never really tell when there’s some extra eyes or ears around. Not until it’s too late, I mean.” 

The target snorted, rolling his eyes and shaking his head with a smirk. “Okay, calm down with the conspiracy, buddy.” He walked past Murdock to set the clipboard and pen down on his coffee table, his focus now consumed by the package. He fished a small knife out of his pocket, pushing the blade toward the thick line of tape. “Since you bring up eyes and ears, though. . .have you heard anything about my trigger? It’s been a good while since I sent him out, and he hasn’t reported back to me at all.” 

“I’m afraid not. I did try to ask around, though,” Murdock answered, his expression flickering. 

On one hand, the target had his back to him yet again; Murdock knew he had acting skills, but just how little this guy thought things through almost made his performance way too easy. 

On the other hand, the target turning his back to Murdock meant he had to look at that second stupid fucking face again. 

Oh, well.

He kept speaking, making sure the sound of his voice drowned out the way he carefully dragged one of his own knives down the length of the larger package. “But I wouldn’t worry about it too much. We’ve all gotta lay low after a job, don’t we? Your guy is probably a lot closer than you realize.”

The larger package silently twitched. A pair of brown eyes glinted at Murdock through the sliver of space between cardboard folds. The hitman smirked, raising a hand to count down on his fingers and mouthing along.

Three. . .two. . .

The scream that tore through the air was at an octave usually reserved for fire alarms, but neither Murdock nor his accomplice flinched at it. 

A small thump followed the distress call, which was now breaking apart into shorter wails as the target backed away from the box he’d just opened. Murdock copied those movements, making sure to stay behind him. The target turned around soon enough, of course, his face contorted in absolute horror at the fact that he’d gotten so close to a pale, dried-blood-covered human foot instead of the cocaine block he’d been expecting.

“Y-you. . !” The target cried, now charging forward, anger joining his fear. “What tHE FUCK IS—”

His words suddenly wilted into unintelligible sputters of pain. He’d been a mere inch from Murdock when a blurry shape came jettisoning out of the larger package to collide with his neck, forcing him to double over.

“Haven’t you heard to not blame the messanger?” A new voice inquired, sounding like a casual lacing of venom in sugar. A petite woman emerged from the package, holding an unusually large packing tape dispenser and narrowing her eyes at the target in a way that should’ve turned him to stone. “I mean, this whole thing was my idea, so. . .”

“I’m not denying that,” Murdock promised, jokingly doffing his delivery cap to Azalea.

Azalea, in turn, nodded, her expression shifting from composed fury to maniacal at lightspeed. The target tried to regain his bearings, tried to keep shouting, but she had other ideas. In a single, fluid movement, she stepped closer and bashed the tape dispenser against his nose. She repeated this action until the target was on the floor, and even then she kept swinging the strange choice of weapon up and down onto his head again, and again, and again, and again. 

Murdock was prepared to step in, but his instincts told him that wouldn’t be necessary. His expression grew more curious than sinister as he watched his colleague convince the target that he could be a phrenologist’s dream come true. Sure, the tape dispenser had some solid weight to it, but. . .wow.

“Impressive,” Murdock mused once the target finally went still and Azalea finally paused for breath. “And I thought I’d end up having to knock him out.” 

“What, am I supposed to just let you take all the credit?” Azalea huffed a laugh, rising to her feet to look up into her accomplice’s dark eyes. “This is a half-and-half job.”

“It sure is.” Murdock knelt down beside the target’s unconscious form, fishing a few zip-ties as well as a bundle of thick cloth out of his disguise jacket’s interior pockets. Once the target was properly bound and gagged, Murdock crammed him into the same package that Azalea had previously been hiding in, not being the least bit gentle. He held the panels closed so Azalea could reseal them (which was a bit awkward, since the tape dispenser was now broken due to being used as a makeshift hammer).

“I’m a little surprised Cal let me take this,” Murdock mentioned as he strolled across the target’s living room, leaning down to stuff the severed foot back into the small package. 

Azalea shrugged. “Feet are mostly just skin and bones. Plus, from what he’s told me, they just sell better on some markets than others.” 

“. . .I mean, do the connoisseurs of those ‘other markets’ really know if the feet they’re looking up are still attached to people?” Murdock pondered, cackling when Azalea rolled her eyes and lightly punched him in the side. 

“I texted the cleaning crew while I was in there,” Azalea pronounced, nodding to the larger package and its new cargo. “They should be here in thirty minutes or so.”

“Great!” Murdock nodded, remembering that The Pentas Family’s chop-shop was in need of a new car. “And we’re still set on the site you picked out?” 

At his cohort’s affirmative hum, he bared his teeth in a patented, dangerous grin. He grabbed the dolly’s handle, then gestured to the front door. “Shall we, then?”

Azalea’s smile was a bit more lively, but that didn’t mean it wasn’t frightening. “Let’s.” 

___

Reilpi Woods was a quaint place. It was only a fifteen-minute drive from the Cove Port Inlets, stretching for miles and miles and miles; a good portion of it grew near the beaches and along the seaside cliffs. Sure, its title kind of sounded like the beginning of a drunk madman’s attempt at a prophecy, but it really was a nice place. A convenient place, too.

With how deep it went, it could be plausible for someone to, hypothetically, get lost on a camping trip and never come back. That also made up for many of the hardships that came with burying a body (after tricking the authorities into digging up untouched soil in a specific location with a false report, of course). 

The branches on the majority of its trees intertwined with one another, forming more than enough of a shield from both the sun or the odd camera-equipped drone piloted by some background character whose life could potentially be changed for the worse.

The trees in question came in varying heights: some were as towering as houses, and others were short enough to be scaled quite easily. 

Murdock had chosen a tree that seemed to be right in the middle of those categories. It didn’t take too much effort to aim and toss the long end of the rope coil over a thick, sturdy branch. He gave the line an experimental tug, just to be certain it was secure, then began pulling it hand-over-fist. 

“HMPE. Nice,” Azalea complimented, watching her accomplice work as she retrieved the small, pink-stained wooden chest she’d previously hidden in the decoy mail truck’s glove compartment. 

“I only work with the best,” Murdock replied cheerfully. “The hardware store had a great sale earlier this week.” 

Once his and Azalea’s target had been hoisted a few inches, just able to stand upright with bound wrists suspended over his head, Murdock strode over to a smaller tree nearby, tying the end of the rope into a tight knot around its trunk.

When exactly the target had regained consciousness, neither of them could be sure. By the time he’d started making noise, they’d already driven a good, long way into the heart of the forest. He’d tried to start running as soon as Murdock reopened that package, only to collapse on his face about three seconds afterwards. Even now, strung up and shirtless, he apparently still thought there was some use in writhing. He kicked and swayed, eyes bulging, chest heaving. His attempts to hurl obscenities at his captors were well-muffled by the gag that’d been tied around his mouth. 

Azalea dragged a collapsable table out of the trunk, unfolded it a few feet away from where the target stood, and set the aforementioned pink chest on top of it. 

“So,” Murdock pronounced as he walked past her, carrying a long leather case he’d produced from under the driver’s seat. “How much time do you think you’ll need?”

Azalea hummed as she pried the little chest open: five empty syringes had been organized into a little pyramid, kept in balance by the line of five glass vials sitting right beside them. “Well, each dosage will need at least a few minutes to take effect. I already have some pretty good estimates, so maybe. . .twenty-five minutes? At most?” 

“Yeah, that’ll be just fine.” Murdock nodded. “Becky’s a fast worker.” 

Though Azalea didn’t pause as she pushed a needle into a rubber stopper, she still couldn’t help but chuckle.

Murdock refused to stop his movements as well. While opening up the leather case and lifting a shovel out, he raised an eyebrow at his colleague’s laughter. “What’s so funny?” 

Azalea tilted her head, flicking at the now full syringe before setting it down to prepare one of the others. “You always give the others flack for naming their equipment, but you don’t have any room to talk.” 

“Excuse you, I’ve got tons of room,” Murdock protested. “Becky is special. She’s been there for me ever since I started out.”  He hugged the shovel close, some brief yet total adoration worming its way onto his face. He then spun Becky in his hands and brought her tip down into the soil about ten feet from where the target was hanging. 

“Good for her,” Azalea replied. “Still, are you sure you’ll be done around the same time I am? I wouldn’t want to just keep you out here for hours.”

Slight hypocrite or not, Murdock did have a bit of a point. The blades of Becky’s cutting tip were ridged, implying that she was capable of slicing through more than just dirt. There were black grips along the socket and handle. She truly had a polish to her, one that would seem more appropriate on a blessed and/or cursed weapon of yore. 

“Hours?” Murdock barked a sarcastic laugh, glancing back and forth between Azalea and the ground. He worked himself into a pattern of movement, the little pile of loose dirt beside him growing bit by bit. “Becky and I will race you, Aza!”

Azalea blinked, placing a hand on her hip. “That hole’s gonna have to be six feet deep, at least.”

“And it will be!” Murdock insisted. Nodding at the target, he added, “Plus, we’ll be putting him in vertically.”

“You think I don’t know that?” Azalea retorted. She fidgeted in place. “. . .Aren’t longer holes harder to dig out than wider holes?”

There was no response from Murdock this time. He just kept digging, though he peered up at her over his glasses. His eyes were just barely visible, but that expectant, daring look was obvious.

“Okay, then.” Azalea offered a polite shrug before turning on her heel and approaching the target. 

The target snarled at her, raised a leg to try and kick her. But as she gracefully sidestepped out of the way, she saw how he finally seemed to notice what was now in her hand. His scowl wavered, his muffled insults came to an abrupt halt, the patches of skin unmarked by tattoos turned pale as the needle caught a stray beam of light peeking through the canopy above. 

Azalea rolled the first syringe between her fingers, thoughtful as she paced around the soon-to-be sentient pincushion. She had the experience to know which areas were most sensitive to injections: hands, the soles of the feet, palates, that little groove between the upper lip and the nose. 

She couldn’t really go for any of those areas right now, but that wouldn’t be a problem. Run-of-the-mill muscles could always make getting a shot more of a struggle than strictly necessary. 

With that in mind, Azalea halted in her tracks just behind the target. He tried to turn himself around to keep facing her, but he wasn’t fast enough. He didn’t even have time to recoil as she stabbed the needle deep into his lumbar, effectively piercing the tattooed eye of a snake that had bent fangs and looked more drunk than menacing. 

Azalea pressed the plunger down with enough force to almost risk crushing it. She held onto it for a few long seconds, just to be sure, then stepped back. The syringe stayed in place when she let go of it, well and truly stuck in the target’s skin. 

Slowly but surely, a dark red bead rose up around where the needle met the syringe’s hub. And as it began to trickle down, leaving a thin, red streak to disrupt the tattoos below that embarrassing snake, the target started bellowing. 

The cries were low at first, but they grew louder in no time, broken up by the target’s gasps for air. The skin around the injection site was already swelling—it couldn’t really be compared to an allergic reaction or the like, but it was still horribly noticeable.

From what Azalea had heard, Gila monster venom caused an intense burning sensation, as well as dizziness, a rapid heart rate, and sometimes even a decrease in blood pressure.  Cases of being bitten by the lizard in question were rarely ever fatal, but that was just fine.

A dosage of something fatal would’ve been too good for the target.

About a week had passed since the incident.

That one spot on Azalea’s arm still ached and stung like no other, but she didn’t have to wrap a new set of bandages around it anymore. The dull red mark still stuck out against the rest of her skin, but it seemed to be getting a little smaller every day. Hell, by now it could’ve been mistaken for a simple scrape, as though Azalea just had a disagreement with the sidewalk pavement. 

The tranquilizer gun fit shockingly well in the pocket of her vest. The weapon was a lot like Azalea, actually; it was small enough to underestimate, and it packed way more than enough of a punch to make whoever was doing the underestimating regret all the choices they’d made to get to that point.  

Azalea didn’t need to use it very often—remember, her way of work was all about stealth and cunning and HAHA YOU FOOL, YOU’LL NEVER LOOK AT A COOKIE THE SAME WAY AGAIN BECAUSE YOU’RE DEAD NOW!—but ever since that fateful evening, she’d made a point to carry it every moment she wasn’t in the public eye. Once she and her peers all made sure that the threat was truly gone, she’d return it to that innocent-looking little safebox in her cabinet. 

The Pentas Family wasn’t on total lockdown; just lying low for a bit. There’d been no complaints about The Boss’ orders, of course. Just like there was no doubting that they’d come out on top. But that impromptu emergency meeting had still been so tense. . .

Azalea gave the Gila monster venom about three minutes to work its magic. The target had yet to vomit, but the nausea in his eyes was painful just to look at. 

She checked in on Becky and Murdock, who were still preparing the grave.

The mound of dirt had definitely grown, but the bottom of the hole was still very much shallow. 

Murdock glanced up as his accomplice approached. He stayed just as silent as Becky, but the sheer amount of excited determination on his face spoke volumes. 

Azalea didn’t really have anything to say either, so she just gave him a curt nod before retreating to start the next phase of the session. 

Warrior wasp venom wasn’t lethal, but it could almost make you wish it was. The insect in question was aggressive and territorial, so encounters with it weren’t exactly uncommon in certain parts of South America. 

Some victims likened the sting to boiling oil being poured over your skin. Others compared it to being chained down in front of an active volcano, right in the path of all that flowing lava. Perhaps no two victims could describe it in the exact same way? 

Azalea wasn’t certain, and she probably never would be. It wasn’t like the target had a chance to give her a description.

Or. . .maybe he did, in a way.

Because just a moment after she stabbed the second syringe into his right deltoid, he confirmed the rumor that warrior wasp venom made people sound absolutely insane when they screamed. 

Azalea lightly shook her head, drumming her nails against the box she was carrying in time with her footsteps. Aforementioned box was full of sweets, but unlike many of its predecessors, none of those sweets would end up killing whoever decided to help themself. 

K.O. deserved a reward for being so quick and so efficient with the bullet graze, after all. Yes, he’d already gotten paid for taking on the last-minute assignments, but Azalea couldn’t just not thank him personally. 

Due to his walnut allergy, K.O. had to be very, very careful about the treats he consumed. Anything involving chocolate was almost always too risky, but Azalea had plenty of recipes for different types of candy. She knew this gift wasn’t much, but she also knew that K.O. would still be happy with it. 

As if on cue, K.O. popped up right as Azalea rounded the corner. He was halfway leaning through the door to his den, light streaming across the old platform. What a coincidence: Azalea hadn’t told him about her plan to stop by, but she’d still predicted that he’d be down here. 

What she hadn’t predicted was for Caliban to be down here, too. Last she’d heard, her brother was running his own errands around town. But, sure enough, here he was, doubled-over and gritting his teeth as he trudged onto the old platform from the opposite direction. 

That was what made Azalea stop short before she could call out to either of them. 

Something was wrong.

Caliban always kept his back straight unless. . .

An awful type of energy slithered along Azalea’s neck as she quickened her pace, nearly dropping her cargo.

A panicked shout caught in her throat, making both Caliban and K.O. flinch as they finally looked over and realized she was here with wide eyes. 

Even with the dark blue shade of the fabric, it was easy to see a stain blooming through the lower half of Caliban’s button-down. 

Even in the dim lighting, it was easy to see how the hand Caliban pressed against his stomach was covered in glistening red.

Even through the immediate cacophony of questions on Azalea’s part and instructions on K.O.’s part, it was easy to hear droplets of blood plopping against concrete as they trickled out between Caliban’s fingers. 

Yet another wasp’s venom was next on Azalea’s list for the session, so the syringe containing it would go in the target’s left deltoid. To compliment the other, see?

Not immediately, though.

“The guy you sent is dead,” Azalea announced, speaking to the target for the first time since she’d knocked him unconscious. Her voice was soft, and muffled, agonized, unintelligible groans were still leaking out of his mouth. But she knew that he could hear her. 

“. . .Or, I’m pretty sure he is, at least. He was kept alive for a few days after his little stunt, but there’s no saving him now,” she continued. 

Visible shivers had been wracking their way up and down the target’s body all this time. Azalea knew that they were involuntary, that they were just more side-effects of the poisons she’d given him so far.

Now, however, he froze in place.

Azalea smirked, practically able to see her words registering in his mind. “Nobody’s going to find either of you, y’know. Even if someone actually tries to look, they won’t get any leads.”

She resumed her pacing, never taking her eyes off the target, watching as his ragged breathing stuttered. 

“I know, I know. Scenarios like that are pretty underwhelming, but that’s more on you for springing this on us the way you did.” Azalea shrugged as she passed the syringe from one hand to the other. 

Her smile widened a bit. “Don’t worry, though! We’ll try to make things more interesting for your other cronies. I bet one of them will end up being found again and again for a month or so. It’ll have to happen in a different city, but that’s not too big of a problem.”

Tarantula hawks got their name from their frightening diet, but that most certainly wasn’t the only thing they were infamous for. By some terrifying miracle, their stings truly felt similar to an active hair dryer after it was dropped into someone’s bathtub. They were described as explosive

The toxin was apparently explosive enough to give the impression of electric currents literally tearing their way through your bloodstream. 

“This is like a weird variation of sibling ESP,” K.O. blurted as he carefully prodded at the puncture site with gloved hands. “Really, I’m surprised some cosmic imbalance hasn’t been triggered.”

“Don’t remind me,” Azalea replied, wringing her hands. She’d just returned from washing them for the third time. The skin around her knuckles almost felt a little dry. 

“Hey, if I had to be jumped, at least it was by an amateur,” Caliban mused, chewing his lip while staring at the ceiling. A good few minutes had passed since he'd stopped shaking and choking on air. It seemed the sheer awkwardness of having to lay across someone else’s workout equipment with his shirt half-unbuttoned was balancing out his stress. 

“Good point,” K.O. agreed as he soaked yet another washcloth into the bucket of cold, clean water he’d brought from upstairs.“I don’t really work with knives, and I can still see how that idiot should’ve used a drill if he wanted to cause some real penetration.”

The resulting fit of snickers on Caliban’s part were so sudden and loud that he lurched forward. Said snickers automatically had to compete with the way Caliban sucked in a sharp breath between his teeth as K.O. swept the washcloth over the latest wound.

“. . .I should’ve seen that coming.” The mental image of a person’s guts getting all twisted around a drill bit wasn’t pretty, but Azalea still clicked her tongue and fondly rolled her eyes as she carried over a thick roll of gauze.“If Murdock isn’t around to make jokes like that, then someone else always will. Always.” 

“We’ve all gotta do our part.”  K.O. took the bandages, offering a proud, smug grin in return. “Okay, Cal: sit up slowly but don’t move your feet too much. And keep your arms above your stomach.” 

Caliban was still giggling at the semi-dirty quip as he complied with the other mobster’s instructions. His face fell, however, as he looked down at the new gash on the left side of his abdomen. Sure, the bleeding had stopped, and sure, it was actively being hidden by layers of fresh heavy-duty bandages. 

But even with the knowledge that it hadn’t gone deep enough to cause any serious infections, Azalea could tell that it hurt much more than Caliban was letting on. She sidled around K.O., careful to give him enough space as she stood beside her brother. She quietly rested one of her hands on his shoulder, trying to help him stay steady. 

Despite the initial panic, things had moved nice and quickly. Time hadn’t even seemed to slow down and make everything feel worse for once.

It hadn’t exactly been pleasant to feel her brother’s blood spill onto her hands while K.O. rushed to get something more effective for applying pressure, but Azalea knew how much of a tough cookie he was. This wasn’t the first time Caliban had gotten stabbed; this wasn’t even the worst example out of all the other scars decorating his torso. If he could heal up from all those other cases, then this one would be a cakewalk. He was going to be fine.

Azalea stared into her brother’s eyes, hoping to somehow filter all those little reminders into his brain without speaking. 

Caliban stared right back at her. And, judging by the way his features seemed to relax a bit more, her efforts were successful. “That’s the thing about stabbing,” he finally continued, the usual grin back on his face. “You have to know where just the right spots are if you want to be effective. Otherwise you’ll just make the rest of us look bad.” 

“Well, I’m sure you can give that moron a proper demonstration once we track him down,” Azalea promised, madness flickering along her otherwise gentle expression. 

The tired look returned to Caliban’s eyes. He let out a melodramatic sigh, shaking his head sulkily. “No, I really can’t.”

“Why not?” K.O. asked as he secured the last layer of padding.

“Because the guy was covered in tattoos!” Caliban threw his hands up in frustration, eyes growing wider and just a bit more wild than before. “And when I say covered, I mean COVERED! Ink like that just completely ruins the meat! Makes it taste horrible!” He made the mistake of ever-so-slightly stretching his stomach, which prompted him to grind his jaw, screw his eyes shut and fall back with yet another hiss. 

“. . .So, you’re saying other types of ink could make people taste better?” K.O. wondered with a smirk. 

“Yes, K.O. That’s exactly what I’m saying,” Caliban deadpanned, craning his neck to raise an eyebrow at his colleague, who held up his hands in mock surrender. 

Azalea, meanwhile, kept drawing circles on Caliban’s shoulder, all the ideas on what to do to her brother’s attacker quickly forming a maze in her mind.

“. . .They weren’t even flattering tattoos,” Caliban murmured, gingerly folding his arms across his chest. “Seriously, there was a pinup girl on one of his arms and she looked like a random stranger just offered to share a toilet seat with her.” 

“Did you seriously not see this coming?” Azalea inquired, halting right in front of the target. “That’s hard to believe.”

The fourth and final syringe was ready. It was almost as long as a pencil, wider than the three that had been used before it. Its needle was thicker, shinier, sharper, the meanest-looking thing in Azalea’s collection. But even if it wasn’t, that wouldn’t have mattered.

When you were handling a dosage of fresh, pure, unadulterated bullet ant venom—a substance that was infamous for literally being described as “walking over flaming charcoal with three-inch nails in your heels”—nothing really mattered.

“Turning the art festival into a gun range wasn’t enough, huh? You just couldn’t resist going after my brother yourself.”

The target’s head had been hanging. He must’ve been tired from shaking it side-to-side as if that would somehow convince his brain to magically alleviate the torment. But it suddenly jerked up like that of a marionette puppet.

Like a new, foreign weight had just settled around his shoulders, encouraging the tiny rivers of blood to keep trickling down his chest and back. Not chasing all the pain away, but somehow managing to distract him from it, if only for a moment. His bloodshot, watery eyes seemed to grow even wider than before as he stared at his torturer. 

“What, couldn’t you tell?” A sarcastic chuckle bubbled up in Azalea’s throat. “I know he’s a lot taller than me, but still: isn’t the resemblance obvious?”

She pretended to mull the question over for a few long seconds, then snapped her fingers.

“Oh wait, that’s right! There really is no way you could’ve known about that.”

She rested her thumb on the syringe’s plunger. Her knuckles were turning white as she kept the barrel pinned between her index and middle finger.

“You probably didn’t even know I was there for your first little rendezvous. . .” she continued, drawing even nearer, now holding her little weapon aloft. 

The target attempted to stagger back, attempted to turn his head away.

Azalea, in response, reached up and gripped his chin, digging her nails into the skin of his jaw as she forced him to face her. Her other hand was a blur, the syringe glinting hungrily.

“. . .Because you’re just a bottom-feeding coward.”

The needle sank into the target’s flesh; the left side of his abdomen, to be specific. 

There was still half of the venom left in the syringe when the target started screaming. His legs gave out from under him as though his bones had dissolved into his blood. As his knees couldn’t touch the ground, he swayed to and fro in a very unnatural manner with such violent convulsions that he could’ve been mistaken for having a seizure. 

He’d been screaming for the majority of the session, of course, but this scream was. . .something else. It was like nothing Azalea had ever heard before; and this wasn’t even the first time she’d used bullet ant venom.

Eh, what else could be expected from the brilliant, intense, undeniable crown queen of pain?

Even with the new ache in her ears, Azalea felt a smile etch its way across her face. It wasn’t calm just yet, but it would get there eventually. She’d reached her goal: there was no way in hell that this target wasn’t regretting his choice to screw around with her, Caliban, and the rest of their family. 

“Looks like I’m done over here,” Azalea pronounced, wiping her hands as she turned to look at Murdock. “Sorry if all this noise has been bothering you.”

“Oh, not at all,” Murdock reassured, his voice suspiciously more chipper than tired. 

Azalea was about to jokingly ask if he’d brought a second shovel along so she could help him finish digging out the grave.

She was about to. . .but she couldn’t.

Surprisingly enough, the way her jaw hit the ground didn’t disrupt the pile of dirt beside Murdock, which had transformed from an improvised molehill to a small mountain. It even seemed to be a couple inches taller than he was! The hole that’d been excavated was just wide enough to put an adult human in feet-first. It also seemed to go much, much deeper than six feet; a sunray was shining down into it, and yet the bottom was still shrouded in darkness!

“H-how—HOW—?!” Azalea stammered, glancing back and forth between Murdock and the pit.

“Like I said, Aza: Becky works fast,” Murdock explained without really explaining, smirking like a bastard as he rested his arms on his beloved shovel’s handle. 

“AAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUGH!” The target tried to add. 

Azalea blinked, slowly raising her hands to massage her temples and reminding herself that she and Murdock had someone to bury. There wasn’t time to question the potential reality-bending powers of some tactical shovel. “Fine, okay, whatever. Could you just bring him down, please?”

Murdock nodded. “My pleasure.” He cradled Becky in his arms one last time before setting her back down in her leather case and returning it to the decoy mail truck. After that, he made his way over to where he’d tied the line. Azalea followed him, orbiting around the target one last time before the rope went loose.

Just because those four syringes were empty didn’t mean she wanted to waste them, after all.

@sammys-magical-au @the-matpat-ever @rebar2042

[changingplumbob]

Knightstone Household: Chapter 7, Part 4

Promoting the alien agenda* by having more aliens in my sims world. *Alien agenda is not real, much like the gay or trans agendas that are also, not real

If Silas was the infant prince of pout, his brother is the infant prince of grump. Highlights in Part 4 include birth, Silas embracing his big brother role and the new Knightstone infant being difficult in a way Mercedes could only dream of.

Suzanna decides to confront her worries and has a day at work without her disguise. Faye is annoyed but none of her other coworkers flinch. One work task is to mind control sims to be ravenous but she takes pity on Faye, setting her to clean instead. The day ends and she's officially on family leave

Adam: How was work

Suzanna: Really good actually, I got promoted

Adam: Level 10?

Suzanna: Level 10!

Silas: What that mean

Suzanna: Pending a few more brainwaves, I'll be able to get us to Sixam

Adam: I'm not sure if I'm excited or nervous

Silas: I want to meet more aliens

Suzanna: So he's excited

After many unsuccessful attempts at building a sandcastle (apparently there's no room) Silas and I discover he can play in the backyard sand. Eventually Suzanna coaxes him into learning some basic needs on flashcards. He's not too impressed. Imagination is better to him than thinking.

Hold everything, it's go time! Suzanna has started labour and we are off to the hospital. Dr Faria administers an epidural and Suzanna begins to wonder if natural birth was such a good idea. Luckily Adam is here with her and does his best to keep her mind off the pain.

Suzanna decides to defy science and sleep with her eyes open. Following her nap she has a quick snack. Then it's time for yoga ball exercises while Adam entertains her. Eventually Suzanna has had enough. She calls Dr Farias to check and yep, we're fully dilated. Time to move to the delivery room.

Adam: Remember your breathing

Suzanna: I'm scared

Adam: I'm right here

Dr: We need some big pushes now

Suzanna: I can't

Dr: Come on, big push

Suzanna: *screams*

Baby: *cries*

Adam: You did it starlight

Suzanna: I did?

Dr: You did

Suzanna has the record shortest game labour sitting at 12 hours.

Adam and Suzanna Knightstone are proud to announce the birth of their second child, Pollock Knightstone (Pol for short). Adam is a fan of abstract art so he is named after a key artist. While initial appearance was purple, when rested at home Pollock developed a shade of blue closer to his father.

Silas: Brother here!

Suzanna: Quiet starshine, here he is

Silas: *coos*

Suzanna: This is Pollock

Silas: Mummy he pretty, good job

Adam: *laughs*

Silas: But he not steal my starshine

Suzanna: His normal nickname will be Pol I think but I could call him-

Silas: Moondust!

Suzanna: Moondust he is

After agreeing Adam will get up when Pollock needs him the parents head to bed. Silas meanwhile is delighted his parents agreed to let him share a room with Pol. He entertains him with a few jokes before getting a smile in response. Eventually he settles into bed happy.

When Adam goes to check on a crying Pollock he finds Silas doing his best to cheer him up. Adam takes over, giving him some food, while Silas has a quick play. When Pollock has finally settled Adam heads back to bed and Silas autonomously puts his toy away, I'm impressed little dude.

Suzanna has woken up extremely uncomfortable. She is full of milk and her chest feels way too heavy. She does some pumping however and that seems to settle them down for now.

Silas: Morning Pol, how you

Pol: *snores*

Silas: Oh you sleep, okay

Pol: *snores*

Silas: You still sleep now?

Pol: *snores*

Silas: Pops Pol very sleepy

Adam: He's a newborn son, they have to sleep to grow

Silas: Ohh

Suzanna goes in as soon as Pollock starts crying. She gives him a feed but he's still crying afterwards. She tries some cuddles and kisses. After a long time he is soothed and happily goes back to sleep.

Today is the premiere of a new show and geek Suzanna is excited. Adam is pretty sure he's already found plotholes after 10 minutes but Suzanna shushes him. Silas walks in and wants to know what they're watching. Silas is mainly interested in the pretty colours, reaching level 5 imagination.

After the show it is time for Pollock to age up to an infant. He's busy crying to Adam's dismay, and has to be calmed down before the event can start. Sparkles and clouds and we are away. Pollock has rolled the sensitive infant trait which sounds like it will fit his clingy newborn nature.

Suzanna picks up Pollock and senses something wrong. While Silas loved to snuggle in close, Pol seems to be recoiling. She puts him down for tummy time but something is still off. More off than this not counting as a head lift! Come on people, that's 100% a lift head milestone if I ever saw one.

Again Suzanna lifts a sobbing infant. She puts him on the playmat while she goes to get some milk and the problem is revealed. Pol Hates Being Held! He is horrified at being scooped up and feels relief and freedom when put down. Unfortunately he has to be held while being fed milk, no arguments. Bubbles!

Suzanna takes some time to pump and let Pol recover from being held. Silas seizes his moment and goes over to play with Pol, telling him all about the magic ring. After a while Pol seems interested and lifts his arm up, reach milestone unlocked! He smiles at Silas who chatters away to him.

Suzanna: Bedtime

Silas: Mummy, NO! Put him back

Suzanna: He's been awake a long time starshine

Silas: *pouts*

Pol: *cries*

Suzanna: There there moondust, I know, mean Mummy had to carry you

Silas: What now

Suzanna: Now we say goodnight and go find some food *puts on lullaby*

Silas: Goodnight Pol

Suzanna's turn to be on night duty. Pollock wakes up feeling pretty angry but Suzanna gets a smile out of him. Diaper change time and turns out Pol is a Free-Air Tinkler. However it's a number 2 issue, no pee on Suzanna just yet. I get that Pol is angry at being carried but his scowl is adorable!

Suzanna: Come on moondust, tummy time

Pol: *whimpers*

Suzanna: You can do it, mummy believes in you

Pol: *cries*

Suzanna: Keep trying

At long last Pollock raises his head enough for the milestone to count. He holds for 2 seconds then falls back down but I have proof he did it! Well done Pol

Suzanna and Pollock keep practising tummy time for a while. Then it's feeding time, burping time and eventually night night time again. For a second I think he's going to be a self-soother, but no. Fingers in mouth is completely unrelated.

Previous Part ... Next Part

[extremewebtech92]

Step Into The Future: Key Features of Modern Website Design

The digital landscape is ever-evolving. Just like fashion, the trends in web design keep changing, bringing in fresh perspectives and innovative designs. Modern website design isn’t just about making a site look good; it's about user experience, compatibility, adaptability, and more. To truly step into the future, it's vital to understand these key features As the digital realm transforms, so does the demand for top-notch web designers. Among the frontrunners in Pune City is Extreme Webtech, the No1 Website Design Agency in Pune. What sets them apart?

1. Responsive Design

In today's multi-device world, responsive design is not an option; it's a necessity. A site must look impeccable and function seamlessly, whether viewed on a desktop, tablet, or mobile phone.

2. Minimalistic Approach:

Less is more when it comes to modern design. Clean layouts, ample white space, and a decluttered look make for a more engaging user experience.

3. User-Centric Navigation:

A modern website ensures that users can find what they're looking for with ease. Streamlined navigation, intuitive menus, and clear calls to action are hallmarks of user-centric design.

4. Engaging Visuals:

High-quality visuals, from images to videos, play a crucial role in retaining user attention. They should complement the content and not overshadow it.

5. Interactive Elements:

Hover animations, scroll-triggered animations, and other interactive elements can make a website feel alive and responsive to user actions.

6. Fast Loading Times:

A site that takes ages to load is a site that users will abandon. Optimization techniques, such as compressing images and using content delivery networks, ensure quick load times.

7. Accessible Design:

Modern websites are built for everyone, including users with disabilities. This means ensuring that sites are usable for those with screen readers, hearing impairments, and other accessibility needs.

8. Integrated Social Media:

In the era of social media, integrating social platforms into a website can boost engagement and visibility.

9. Search Engine Optimization (SEO):

A beautifully designed website is of little use if people can't find it. Proper SEO ensures that a site ranks well on search engines, increasing its visibility.

10. Strong Security:

With increasing cyber threats, a modern website needs to prioritize security. This includes SSL certificates, regular updates, and safe coding practices.

11. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs):

PWAs are a blend of the best parts of web and mobile apps. They can work offline, send push notifications, and give users an app-like experience on desktop and mobile.

12. Voice User Interface (VUI):

As voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri become ubiquitous, integrating voice search and commands into websites is becoming a norm. This enhances accessibility and user experience, especially for those on the go.

13. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR):

The integration of AR and VR into web design offers a more immersive experience for users. From virtual try-ons in fashion e-commerce to interactive property tours in real estate, AR and VR are reshaping user experiences.

14. Dark Mode:

Popularized by apps like Twitter and Instagram, dark mode offers a visually relaxing experience for users, especially in low-light conditions. Modern websites now offer this as a toggle option for user convenience.

15. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Chatbots:

AI-driven chatbots provide instant customer service, guiding visitors, answering queries, and even processing orders. These bots make websites more interactive and user-centric.

16. Motion UI:

Subtle animations, transitions, and graphics can capture user attention and make browsing a website more engaging. Motion UI is about finding the right balance between static content and animated elements.

17. Content Personalization:

Modern websites use AI and user behavior analytics to curate content specifically tailored for each visitor, enhancing user engagement and conversion rates.

18. Internet of Things (IoT) Integration:

With everyday objects being interconnected and sharing data, websites will soon be the hub of this communication. Imagine a fitness brand's site integrating data from smartwatches, shoes, and even apparel. Web design will need to adapt to present and analyze this vast amount of data in user-friendly ways.

19. 5G Connectivity:

The rollout of 5G will revolutionize browsing speeds and website functionality. Web designers will have more bandwidth to play with, leading to richer media experiences, instantaneous load times, and more immersive interactive features.

20. Quantum Computing:

Quantum computers, with their immense processing power, will revolutionize data analysis and operations that today's computers find challenging. For web design, this could mean instantaneous rendering of high-definition 3D visuals, real-time multilingual translations, and AI capabilities beyond our current comprehension.

21. Data Privacy and Protection:

As technology advances, so do the concerns about user data privacy. Modern websites will have to place even greater emphasis on securing user data, transparent data usage policies, and compliance with international regulations.

22. Immersive 3D Elements:

3D visuals and interfaces will become more common, providing a depth and immersion previously reserved for high-end video games and specialized software.

23. Real-time Collaboration:

As remote work and global collaboration become the norm, websites will incorporate real-time collaborative tools, allowing multiple users to interact, share, and modify content simultaneously.

Customized Solutions:

Every brand is unique. Extreme Webtech recognizes this and provides tailored web design solutions that resonate with a brand's essence.

Expert Team:

Boasting a team of seasoned professionals, they bring in-depth knowledge, experience, and passion to each project.

Client Testimonials:

Their portfolio gleams with positive feedback and testimonials, a testament to their unparalleled services.

Innovative Approach:

They stay ahead of the curve by continually updating their knowledge and techniques, ensuring their clients always get the best of modern web design.

Extreme Webtech: Navigating the Future

Extreme Webtech is not just a passive observer in this digital revolution. They are active participants, pioneers even. Their design ethos reflects a deep understanding of these emerging technologies and the implications they have on web design. Their ongoing investment in research and development, upskilling, and infrastructure ensures that they remain ahead of the curve.

Their approach is holistic, understanding that a website isn't just about aesthetics or functionality in isolation. In the modern digital ecosystem, a website is an integrated platform that operates in conjunction with numerous other technologies, devices, and platforms. With this foresight, Extreme Webtech offers its clients future-proof solutions that are both relevant today and adaptable for tomorrow.

Name:- Extreme web Tech

Address:- B1 Flat No 23, Shreeram Darshan Phase 2, Opp. Sawant Vihar, Morebaug, Katraj, Pune – 411046

Phone Number:- +919405379630

Website:- https://www.extremewebtech.net

Conclusion:

The horizon of web design stretches far beyond what we see today. As the lines between the physical and digital worlds blur, web design will evolve to become more than just about 'websites.' It will be the gateway to a fully interconnected digital existence. And in this brave new world, having the right partner is crucial. With their expertise, vision, and commitment to innovation, Extreme Webtech stands out as the beacon for businesses navigating the complex digital future. In Pune and beyond, they are the harbinger of the digital revolution in web design.

[i-am-the-egg-to-rule-all-eggs]

I hear a sharp 3 knocks on my door. I spin around and pull out my Glock 23 and fire 3 quick shots into the door. A slump is heard on the other side, and muffled cursing. The bastards thought they could catch me like that. No. One doesn't outpizza the hut and not learn a few things along the way.

I grab my perfect pizza and suspend it on one hand as I quickly dash upstairs. Two men clad in bright red riot gear are waiting. I fire 2 more shots into their faces and spring up onto the wall as they, too, fall over dead. I spring past their bodies into my hallway. Dashing madly, I throw my gun into the face of another agent that pops out of the ceiling and dive into my room. I'm here for one thing and one thing only. I grab a blue pizza delivery bag marked with the Dominoes logo, and quickly slide my perfect pizza into the bag. I only have a second to catch my breath before the walls cave in and 4 riot-gear clad men charge into my room. Not to be deterred from my mission, I jump on one and rip of his head. I stare coldly into his panicked eyes as he screams in incomprehension. I throw his head like a baseball at another agent, putting a hole into his midsection, as I jump to the third agent. This one I use as a springboard as I jump out of the window, smashing his skull into the carpet, and leaving the final one to stare at the gory scene. I don't blame them for this. They couldn't know who they're fucking with.

I jump onto the helicopter that was unlucky enough to be dropping off four more guys and swing in through the side door. I rip off the metal door and throw it at the pilot within, sending him flying through the windshield. I curse under my breath. I hadn't flown in a helicopter with a broken windshield since searching for the magic tomatoes of Northumbria. I take the controls and lift away. I'm safe for now. They couldn't possibly know the location of my client.

The helicopter ride is smooth enough, if you don't count the squad of troopers they tried to hijack my copter with. I smile to myself as I hear their souls screaming in the 2 liter Pepsi bottles I found in the back. I almost feel bad for them, just drinking the stuff is hell enough for most. I hear the wind blow harder, and I know my destination is close.

I put down the copter in front of a beautiful Grecian estate. Green grass dotted with wildflowers stretches for acres, and neat hedges make a rough path to 2 parallel rows of columns. They lead to the front of the huge building where a short man-esque being is standing. He's a little squat dude, wearing a loud floral print shirt that clashes terribly with his bright red skin. He's got two coiled horns amidst messy jet-black hair. I've delivered for this guy a few times. He's a pretty nice guy, and he pays extremely well. I walk up to the estate, holding 2 soul-filled 2 liters and the pizza on my back. As I draw close I see he's drinking some sort of wine that smokes in the bottle. He snorts, and fixes me with squinted eyes, though with how scrunched up the guys face is, that could just be his normal stare. Its tricky to tell with this guy. He bellows out in a gravelly voice, "YER LATE!"

"Sorry," I say. "Ran into the usual trouble" I gesture the bottles. "Want something to drink?"

He ponders the bottles for a second, and shakes his head. "NAH. I GOT PLENTY O' WINE"

"Suit yourself. Now, payment?"

He snorts again, and waves his hand. Four duffel bags drop from the sky. I unzip one, revealing ebony black bars. I touch one, and it's freezing. "Alright, this'll do" I take of my bag, and slide the still-steaming pizza out from my bag. "Your pizza, sir. Made with only the freshest ingredients"

He takes a slice, and shoves it full into his face, munching loudly. He beaches loudly "AH, THA' HITS THE SPOT, THA' DOES" He takes the pizza. "ILL CONTACT TH' SAME WAY IF I WANT ANOTHER. NOW LEAVE" He bellows.

"If you don't mind, could you leave me a good review on the Dominoes-"

"YEAH, YEAH, DON' WORRY 'BOUT IT."

I leave, to head back to Dominoes HQ. As I land the copter on the tarmac, I open my Dominoes app. A new review pops up.

5 stars, from "Satan"

You’ve done it. You’ve created the perfect pizza. That was the day you learned that “No one outpizzas the hut” wasn’t a slogan… it was a warning.

[code-wizards12]

About Company Code Wizards

Code Wizards is, truly the swish app growth company in Chandigarh, as it mostly makes unique value services to meet guests.

This Company Deals with App-making methods and growth, which demand making software work for mobile bias, web platforms, or desktop surroundings. This covers stages, such as planning, designing, testing, and implant an action.

Code Wizards is a classy app development company in Chandigarh, that supply quality services to meet guests.

What is an App?

The user can use a software application, aimed to achieve specific tasks, to raise their knowledge by making use of its many benefits.

Companies must understand the importance of joining with their target audience through mobile apps.

In addition, people and their terms are meet through the app which serves as a platform for many links.

How Does App Helps?

Mobile apps can be extremely helpful for both businesses and users. As it helps in build a Stronger Brand, Quickly Connecting with Customers, and getting a Competitive Edge in Understanding User Behavior.

Increase in Customer joy.

Our mobile apps help to grow customer loyalty & charm for businesses. The same apps allow ready messages, in-app purchases, and, notices.

Useful marketing tool

With mobile apps, businesses don't need to be tense They can reach guests over apps easily. The same mobile apps can give data for accounts, newsfeeds, and other sale details.

Increase deals and earnings.

Businesses can grow earnings and deals by blend mobile apps with social connect sites, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Further, this club not only improves customer but also helps brand loyalty.

Brand awareness

Your mobile app shows your brand and serves as a useful tool for raising brand attention and reaching your business goals.

Types of app development?

Developing web applications includes making applications that can easily enter online and run in web browsers. HTML, CSS and JavaScript are the most common web technologies for creating these apps. They offer a various and platform-independent method, as users can access them from many devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones.

1- Waterfall

It’s fit for systems with a strong environment and it gives a clean range.

2-Nimble

We break the design into speeds to give right replies. Thus, we build features and test them in short cycles.

3- Rapid operation development( RAD)

People reply to circles, which is good. Furthermore, visual growth tools are mixed to forward the process.

4- DevOps

DevOps joins software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops); thus, it supports faster and extra true software delivery.

5- Extra development

It helps raise customer value as it stress on lower free effort, and it aims for better growth process.

6- Crossbred development

It approves law work; moreover, it speeds up app development over many platforms.

7-Low- law/ No- law development

These platforms offer visual app development links and extra factors, which as a result enable quick development and easier change.

Android App Development

This usually calls for skill with Android Studio Thus, developers commonly use the United Development Environment. Moreover, they also need skills in programming classics like Java or Kotlin.

I Phone App Development

The instructor begins the iOS app development course with the most fundamental things; furthermore, they introduce you to the iOS platform and the Swift programming language. In addition, they slowly start to deal with more growth.

Why Choose Code Wizards?

Determining the 'swish' web development company can vary, indeed, it is based on specific conditions, budget, as well as design conditions. Moreover, these factors can greatly affect the overall effect of the project. Hence, Code Wizards gives all the money for the stylish business and increases in every sector.

API union

App logical

Assure quality

App revises

Conclusion 

Code Wizards, as a leading app development company in Chandigarh, not only takes pride in being a lead app development company but also promises to supply high-end results. Hence, they understand your business conditions and develop apps.

[actionpropaneinc]

The Benefits Of Reliable Emergency Propane Delivery For Commercial Properties

The owners of commercial properties and businesses consider uninterrupted propane supply as their lifeline to operate smoothly on a daily basis. For example, propane is necessary for heating, cooking, or powering equipment in almost all industries. But accidents, for example, shortage of supply, equipment failure, or severe weather, can leave business locations without their supply of propane. This is where the emergency delivery of propane comes in. In this article, we shall discuss the main benefits of using credible emergency propane delivery for businesses and how emergency propane services for industry protect your operations from possibly costly interruptions.

1. Avoiding Business Disruptions

Preventing operational shutdown is one of the most valuable features of having emergency propane delivery. For businesses that rely on propane for heating or to facilitate the operation of critical equipment, running out of propane can very easily shut down operations. This would mean freezing temperatures, a non-functioning cooking system, or stalled production in a restaurant, industrial site, or warehouse. Having emergency propane delivery for businesses available means having a quick response and ensuring propane is provided when needed the most to keep your business running and serving clients at all times.

2. Safety and Compliance

Any business that uses propane has to comply with rigid safety codes, and an unexpected depletion can put safety into great jeopardy along with compliance. For example, the comfort and safety of the workers and clients in healthcare facilities, hotels, and commercial kitchens depend on propane. Propane shortage would not only violate local codes and regulations but also compromise the safety standards. With emergency propane service to the industry, such risks are avoided, and the right amount of propane will be on hand, providing businesses with the necessary amounts while not compromising on safety standards.

3. Absolute Minimization in Down Time for Critical Operations

In manufacturing, food service, and agriculture, time is money. Losing any second means huge losses. This will minimize the operational delays due to unexpected propane shortages through an emergency propane delivery service. Committed emergency propane services to industries ensure the business receives the propane it needs as quickly as possible with minimal time-cost and avoid losses.

4. More Peace of Mind

You may then feel secure knowing that emergency propane delivery is available if you need it during the operation of your business, especially in a wide array of businesses that significantly rely on a steady supply of propane. A dependable service allows for preparation, such as extreme weather or a sudden high demand. A well-trusted emergency propane delivery service allows commercial property owners to focus on what matters most-running their business-without having to think about potential propane shortages or delays.

5. Emergency Propane Delivery for Remote Locations

There is no greater importance than the delivery of emergency propane services that are reliable in such places concerning businesses sited in remote or inaccessible regions. Such businesses are more susceptible to logistical challenges especially during harsh weather conditions or emergencies. A propane delivery service with experience handling deliveries to remote locations can ensure the business is not left stranded without propane at such times. Emergency propane services for the industry in such locations maintain an uninterrupted flow of activities, whether the heating is for production purposes, generating power, or for machinery operations.

6. Cost Savings in the Long Run

On paper, one might view an emergency propane delivery plan as costing a business money, but it can prove to save the business money in the long term. Unexpected interruptions from propane shortfalls may result in costly repairs, lost revenues, as well as damage to a reputation. When you invest in a reliable business emergency propane delivery, you are proactively defending your operations against potential costs. Additionally, a reliable vendor ensures efficient propane deliveries, thereby eliminating the possibility of overuse or waste.

7. Tailored Solutions for Your Business

With professional emergency propane services for industry providers, getting customized solutions that suit your business needs is easier than you can ever think of. Whether small or large, an industrial operation requires a reliable provider who looks at the propane specific requirement and then offers a solution to prevent running out of propane stock. These solutions may involve monitoring propane usage regularly, automated refills, and fast emergency response times. This customized service ensures that your company always has the propane you require on demand.

Conclusion

This is more than just a convenience but rather an essential component for business operations using propane for heating, cooking, and powering some industrial equipment. Emergency propane services for industry give businesses an opportunity to avoid costly shutdowns, ensure safety and conformity, minimize downtime, and have peace of mind knowing that their propane will be available in any scenario, especially emergency ones.

Whether you are at a remote location or experiencing a seasonal surge in demand and just need a backup plan, Action Propane, Inc. is your company of choice for propane delivery and service. Reach out today to find out more on how to enable you to stay fully operational no matter what.

[smsapiprovider2]

The Top 10 SMS APIs in India for 2024: Choose the Right Fit for Your Business

Communication with clients that is effective has been a key element of success for companies. In the current digital world, SMS remains a powerful method of engaging. Businesses are looking to deliver timely, relevant messages to their customers, SMS APIs are now an essential tool that seamlessly inscribing messaging capabilities into their systems.

In India The SMS API landscape provides various options for companies of any size, all of which offer distinctive features to send messages quickly and effectively. These APIs ease the process of communicating to customers, allowing businesses to streamline their communications strategies, be it for marketing notifications, transactions-related updates.

Why Selecting the Right SMS API Matters

When evaluating the possibility of an SMS API, it’s crucial to concentrate on aspects like the ease of integration and reliability, security and the ability to scale. An API that is reliable and secure will not only guarantee quick and secure delivery of messages, but can also provide valuable information about the performance of your campaign and how well it is received by your audience. A well-thought-out choice will increase your chances of connecting with your clients in a meaningful manner.

The Best SMS APIs in India for 2024

Below are the top ten SMS APIs that are distinctive in India for their innovative capabilities, high-quality performance, and user-friendliness:

D7 Networks

The Best SMS API in India for 2024 D7 Networks offers a reliable and extremely scalable SMS API that is praised by companies because of its global reach and local knowledge. With a user-friendly system, D7 Networks ensures fast and safe delivery, which makes it an ideal choice for businesses in India. Its user-friendly interface with powerful analysis, make it a great choice for businesses looking for an all-in-one solution for messaging.

Website: https://d7networks.com/ 

2. Twilio

Twilio remains a well-known global service thanks to its flexible API that can be used with various programming languages. The company is known for its solid infrastructure, Twilio guarantees excellent delivery and features like mass messaging, authenticating, as well as comprehensive reports.

3. Nexmo (Vonage)

Today, as being part from Vonage, Nexmo delivers a robust SMS API that allows for global reach, personalized messages as well as real-time tracking of delivery. Its ease of use and extensive features make it a great choice for any business of any size.

4. MSG91

The platform is well-known popular in the Indian market MSG91 is a great choice for companies that want to achieve high rates of deliverability and real-time analytics. It is designed to accommodate both transactional and promotional SMS using an API that is easy to integrate.

5. Plivo

The SMS API of Plivo is renowned because of its simple and reliable infrastructure. It provides quick messages and support for a variety of languages. It also offers features like detailed logs and messages scheduling, which makes it a suitable choice for businesses with a range of communication needs.

6. Textlocal

Textlocal provides an easy-to-use SMS API with a wide range of options, including OTP service, URL shortening, and tracking. It’s ideal for businesses seeking a cost-effective high-quality, feature-rich SMS.

7. Bulk SMS Gateway

The service is specialized in bulk messaging, with the focus on user-friendliness usage and competitive pricing. The API was designed to allow seamless integration, and supports both transactional and promotional SMS.

8. Kaleyra

Previously named Solutions Infini, Kaleyra offers an extensive SMS API that comes with advanced features like individualization of messages, scheduling as well as Unicode support. Kaleyra’s global reach as well as its ingenuity makes it an ideal choice for companies seeking to boost their communication strategies.

9. Route Mobile

Route Mobile stands out for its security and adherence to industry standards. It is a complete SMS API that is focused on protection of data, making it an excellent choice for companies operating in industries that are regulated.

10. SMSGatewayCenter

With a particular focus on transactionsal SMS, SMSGatewayCenter provides a secure API that guarantees speedy, secure delivery of messages. The platform is able to provide comprehensive analytics, which allows organizations to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best SMS API to suit your company is an important choice that will significantly affect the effectiveness of your communications. If you are looking for global reach, local expertise or other features that are specialized these options offer secure solutions that will help you achieve your goals for messaging in 2024. Take your time evaluating your particular needs and then select the API which best meets your needs as a business.

[adamstowingtpa]

Common Problems Solved by a Roadside Assistance Service

When unexpected car trouble strikes, having access to reliable roadside assistance can make a difference. From minor inconveniences like a flat tyre to a dead battery, roadside assistance services provide on-the-spot help, ensuring you stay safe and minimize disruption to your day. Here’s a look at some common problems roadside assistance in Tampa can solve and how these services can help get you back on the road quickly.

Flat Tire Repairs and Replacements

Flat tyres are one of the most frequent issues drivers face. Roadside assistance services can help by sending a professional to replace the flat tire with your spare. In some cases, perform minor repairs on-site. If a spare tyre isn’t available or the damage is severe, they may help tow your vehicle to the nearest service station for repairs.

This service is especially helpful for drivers who may not know how to change a tyre themselves or are driving in unsafe conditions where stopping on the road could be dangerous.

2. Battery Jump-Starts and Replacement

A dead battery can leave you stranded, during extreme weather or if your vehicle has been parked for a long time. Roadside assistance services offer battery jump-starts to get you moving again. If the battery is completely dead and unable to hold a charge, some services may even provide on-site battery replacement, depending on availability and location.

This solution saves drivers from finding help nearby or calling a tow truck, getting them back on the road faster. This service can be a lifesaver for those who often leave lights on by accident or drive short distances.

3. Emergency Fuel Delivery

Running out of fuel is another common issue, for drivers on long trips or unfamiliar areas. If stuck with an empty tank, roadside assistance can deliver enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station.

Most services provide a small amount of fuel, allowing you to get to a safe place to refuel. Thus, you can avoid the inconvenience of walking to the nearest gas station. There is also no need to wait for friends or family to bring fuel. This is especially useful for drivers in remote areas where gas stations may not be close by.

4. Lockout Services

Locking your keys in the car is surprisingly easy, especially in a hurry. Roadside assistance can help you regain access to your vehicle by providing professional lockout services, usually without damaging the vehicle. Technicians can usually use specialized tools to unlock the car and retrieve the keys.

This service is a great relief, particularly when you’re far from home, running late, or have young children or pets inside the car. Quick access to lockout assistance can turn a frustrating situation into a minor inconvenience.

5. Towing Services

When a car issue is too severe to be fixed on the spot—such as a major mechanical breakdown—the experts can arrange a tow to a nearby service station or a location of your choice. Most roadside assistance programs include towing within a certain distance. Although additional charges may apply for longer distances.

Towing services are invaluable for cases where a car won’t start or isn’t safe to drive. This gives drivers peace of mind, knowing they won’t be stranded and can get their car to a repair shop without extra hassle.

6. Winching and Extrication

When a vehicle becomes stuck in the mud, snow, or sand, rely only on roadside assistance to provide winching services to pull the car back onto a safe driving surface. Winching is often necessary if your car is stuck on an unpaved road or has slid into a ditch.

This service benefits drivers in rural areas, during winter, or on camping trips, where getting stuck is more common. The teams often have the tools and experience to extricate your car without causing additional damage and get you back on track.

7. Minor Mechanical Repairs

Sometimes a car problem is minor but still prevents the vehicle from operating. These issues include a loose wire, a broken belt, or a disconnected battery cable. Some roadside assistance providers can perform quick, small repairs on-site, saving you a trip to the mechanic.

Roadside technicians may not be able to handle extensive mechanical repairs. But they can often provide temporary fixes that allow you to drive to a repair shop for a more thorough assessment. This is a great way to avoid immediate towing and get the car moving again.

8. Support and Guidance During Emergencies

One of the more understated benefits of roadside assistance is the support and reassurance it provides during car trouble. Many providers offer 24/7 service and can guide drivers on what to do while waiting for help, provide updates on the technician’s arrival, and ensure that the driver is safe.

This support can comfort those anxious about being stranded or unfamiliar with car mechanics. Roadside assistance operators are trained to assess the situation, give instructions, and offer solutions. These services are especially helpful during night-time breakdowns or in unfamiliar areas.

9. Peace of Mind for Long-Distance Drivers

Roadside assistance provides invaluable peace of mind for anyone who drives frequently or over long distances. Whether you’re a commuter, a family traveler, or adventurer, knowing that help is just a call away makes the journey more enjoyable. It reduces anxiety around car troubles.

Final Thoughts

From minor mishaps to serious breakdowns, roadside assistance services help drivers address various issues on the spot. They provide practical solutions like jump-starts, lockout help, and tyre changes and offer reassurance and support. Investing in roadside assistance in Tampa from Adam's Buy Junk Cars & Towing Service can save you time, money, and stress, ensuring you’re never alone on the road.

[commercialvansolutions]

Top Waterproof Flooring Options for Commercial Vans

Commercial vans are versatile and valuable assets across various industries, from transportation and delivery to mobile workshops. Because these vehicles endure heavy traffic, exposure to moisture, and regular wear, choosing the right flooring is essential to maintain cleanliness, safety, and durability. Waterproof flooring is particularly beneficial in commercial vans since it protects against water damage and makes cleaning easier, keeping the interior in prime condition. Here are some of the top waterproof flooring options for commercial vans that combine resilience, ease of maintenance, and practical benefits.

1. Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring comes in sheets, tiles, or planks, making it easy to install and customize to fit a van’s specific dimensions. Vinyl sheets are especially effective because they minimize seams, reducing the chances of water seeping underneath the floor. This seamless quality not only enhances its waterproofing capabilities but also simplifies cleaning, as there are no gaps or grooves where dirt and water can accumulate. 

2. Rubber Flooring

Rubber flooring is another excellent waterproof choice for commercial vans, valued for its durability and slip resistance. This material is naturally water-resistant and can withstand significant amounts of moisture without damage or warping, making it perfect for vans that might be exposed to frequent spills, mud, or rainy environments. Rubber flooring provides excellent shock absorption, which is useful in reducing the impact of equipment and minimizing noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable workspace. 

3. PVC Flooring

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) flooring is a durable and waterproof solution that holds up well under high traffic and heavy equipment. Known for its resilience and toughness, PVC flooring can endure significant wear and tear, making it ideal for commercial vans that are subject to constant use. PVC flooring is often used in interlocking tile form, which allows for quick and easy installation and can be customized to fit the exact dimensions of the van.

4. Epoxy Coating

Epoxy coating is a heavy-duty waterproof option often used in industrial settings, making it an excellent choice for commercial vans with high demands. Epoxy coating creates a seamless, hard surface that’s extremely resistant to water, chemicals, and abrasions. Because it’s applied as a liquid and hardens into a solid layer, it forms a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the floor. Epoxy flooring is particularly beneficial for vans that carry heavy or sharp equipment, as it can withstand impact without cracking or chipping.

5. Marine-Grade Plywood with Waterproof Coating

Adding a waterproof coating, such as polyurethane or a rubberized paint, enhances the plywood’s water resistance, protecting it from spills, moisture, and other forms of wear. This option is durable and can be treated to increase slip resistance, although it may not provide as much cushion as rubber or vinyl. Marine-grade plywood with waterproof coating is also easy to cut and install, allowing for customization to fit any van layout.

Conclusion

Selecting the right waterproof commercial van flooring is critical for ensuring longevity, safety, and ease of maintenance. Vinyl flooring, rubber mats, PVC interlocking tiles, epoxy coatings, and marine-grade plywood with a waterproof finish each offer unique benefits that cater to different commercial needs. By choosing a durable, waterproof flooring solution, businesses can protect their investment, maintain a clean working environment, and create a safe, reliable space for any mobile operation.