#Damaged Duct Replacement

[purebreezeairductcleaners]

How to Use Regular Inspections to Identify Air Duct Replacement Needs

Air ducts play a vital role in maintaining your home’s comfort by circulating air efficiently throughout your space. Over time, air ducts can become damaged, leaky, or clogged with debris, which impacts their performance. Regular inspections are essential to catch these issues early and prevent costly repairs. In some cases, these inspections may reveal the need for air duct replacement to ensure optimal HVAC performance and air quality.

The Importance of Regular Air Duct Inspections

Regular inspections of your air ducts are crucial for identifying potential problems before they escalate. Over time, ducts can develop cracks, loose connections, or even suffer from blockages due to accumulated debris. These issues can lead to inefficient airflow, uneven room temperatures, and increased energy consumption. Early detection through routine inspections helps address these problems, preventing more significant damage that might require an urgent air duct replacement.

Signs Your Air Ducts May Need Replacement

There are several signs that your air ducts may require attention. If you notice uneven heating or cooling, higher-than-usual energy bills, or excessive dust buildup in your home, these could be red flags. Other indicators include strange noises coming from your HVAC system or visible damage to ductwork during an inspection. When these signs appear, a professional assessment can determine whether air duct replacement is necessary.

Extending the Life of Your HVAC System Through Inspections

Regular air duct inspections not only identify when replacement is needed but also help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. Addressing minor issues early prevents them from escalating into major problems that can overwork your system. This proactive approach can save you money on energy costs and avoid the need for premature HVAC replacements. Routine maintenance, paired with timely air duct replacement, ensures your system operates efficiently for years.

Benefits of Air Duct Replacement

When inspections reveal significant duct damage, replacing the ducts can bring several benefits. A new duct system eliminates leaks, improving airflow and ensuring consistent temperatures throughout your home. This also enhances your HVAC system’s energy efficiency, helping to reduce utility bills. Moreover, air duct replacement improves indoor air quality by preventing contaminants like dust, mold, and allergens from circulating, making your home a healthier place.

How Often Should You Schedule Inspections?

To maintain a well-functioning HVAC system, it’s recommended to schedule air duct inspections every three to five years. However, homes with older systems, frequent HVAC usage, or noticeable performance issues may require more frequent inspections. By identifying problems early, you can plan for necessary maintenance or air duct replacement, avoiding unexpected disruptions and ensuring consistent home comfort.

Stay Ahead with Proactive Air Duct Care

Don’t let hidden air duct issues compromise your home’s comfort and efficiency. Regular inspections are the key to maintaining a healthy HVAC system. If your ducts show signs of wear or damage, consider scheduling a professional evaluation. When replacement is necessary, air duct replacement ensures your system runs smoothly, providing a more comfortable and energy-efficient home environment.

[nothomegal]

ITS CHRISTMAS EVE (or at least where I live bc timezones) and I would like to gove Pyramid Head smoochies under mistletoe pls 😌

Aww I was having this idea too! And since it's Christmas allow me to bless you with a drawing!...

...And a lilttle one-shot!

"Mistletoe"

(Pyramid Head x GN Reader)

Warning: suggestive implications by the end, but mostly fluff!

Word Count: 1k

Christmas was always a funny holiday for (Y/N). Either because they never truly felt connected to it or because they haven't felt the 'magic of Christmas' since childhood. Don't get me wrong, they would still put some decorations when they could, but ever since they came to Silent Hill such tradition was lost.

Not like they mind it too much though, they already have the absolute best gift and company they could ever ask for! Just tell me, who in their right mind would be upset about having a nearly 8ft tall demi-god creature as your forever partner? You have to be chronically insane to turn down such blessing!

And speaking of the creature, (Y/N)'s daydream was interrupted when a large hand curled around their arm and stopped them. They shoot a curious glance to their lover, who was already looking at whatever got his attention.

Right above them, placed on the old metallic door frame with, what they suppose is duct tape, were hangign a bunch of oddly shaped pieces of paper. Some pieces where green, others painted green, and all of them where kept together with a piece of damaged red cloth that was tied as a bow.

(Y/N) stares at that weird construction with furrowed brows, really trying to grasp what the hell they're looking at. Pyra was still as well, but his head tilted towards his human as he curiously observes their reaction. Seems like they too have no clue what is this-.

However, (Y/N) manages to make out the shape of it and instantly burst out laughing.

—"No way! No way someone actually made one!"— you say between laughs.

The beast simply observes them, letting out a low wondering rumble. Is that another pointless joke humans have? (Y/N) is laughing hard so it must be something very funny or very stupid.

After the laughter had ceased, (Y/N) takes a look at their monster and suddenly remember what he wanted in the first place. Oh, right. They were supposed to explain what is that.

—"Okay, okay."— you say between giggles as you point at the object. —"That thing over there is supposed to be a mistletoe. Remember when I told you about Christmas and how people decorate that one fuzzy tree? Well, this thing is also kinda a Christmas tradition. People hang it somewhere high and when two step or pass underneath it, they have to kiss."—

While (Y/N) explains, Pyra listens to them carefully. But the second they mention the kiss part, the air between them shifts and becomes... Odd. And Pyra himself still, way too still.

(Y/N) of course feels the change, and is quick to start clarifying.

—"But of course, it's optional. It's not like you're forced to kiss anyone. If anything, I never did! So I suppose this will remain as a silly tradition some-"—

Their speech is replaced by a tiny gasp when the monster suddenly grabs their jaw, gently lifting and moving their gaze where he needed. Their eyes narrow slightly when they noticed a tongue peek out from his helmet and slowly, almost shily, wiggle towards their face.

—"Aww. What a polite guy."— you chuckle as a little blush creeps on your cheeks. —"Well of course I'll give you a kiss."—

Ever since they introduced this new method of showing affection, it wasn't rare to witness Pyra ask for a 'kiss' once or twice. It's kinda funny to see how shy he gets, always taking it slow and giving them enough time to stop or pull away. Do they do that? Nuh-uh! Do they think it feels gross? Weird, yes. But (Y/N) is deranged so it's fine.

The pink muscle soon presses against their lips, and they respond by giving it a kiss while holding it in place gently, totally unbothered by its wet and slippery texture. They could feel Pyra practically melt into the gesture, he does it every time. It's small, but is the closest they can get to an actual kiss, and the intimacy and specialness of it seems to get the beast to his very core.

After some second, when (Y/N) attempts to lean back, a pair of big arms gets a hold around them, cementing them in place completely and pulling them closer to the monster. The said beast lets out a low menacing growl as his tongue licks their cheek and part of the jaw. The message was clear...

M̵̞͔̥̏̌̊o̷͕͒̓͑ͅŗ̷̭̝̓̾e̵̠̤͓̅̒̋.

He wanted more.

Despite the apparentaly hostile growls, (Y/N) showed no intimidation and simply chuckled as they roll their eyes.

—"Someone is feeling frisky, huh?"—

Another, and a bit louder, growl resonated from inside the beast's helmet. His grip around them tightening and the tongue sliding along their lips, almost begging for them to kiss it again.

—"Calm down tiger. We both know if we continue you'll get too carried on."— you coo, sliding one of your hands along one side of his helmet.

He groans with certain displeasure, but his grip soon losens as he slightly tilts his head into their touch, yet he doesn't let go neither.

—"If you're really feeling like doing it then let's go somewhere else. You don't want anyone to see me naked, don't you?"—

This time their answer is no longuer a growl or a sound, but the same pair of big hands lighting their form up and swinging over a broad shoulder.

Before starting to walk however, the monster reaches up and snatches the little paper mistletoe. (Y/N) of course notices that and can't hold back the little laugh.

—"Well well, see you really liked this particular tradition."—

They get no response as the monster resumes his walking. But the small squeeze on one of their thighs was enough proof to know that they got it right and it won't be the last time the see the little item.

After this little interaction, and probably after what's about to come, (Y/N) doubts to ever be able to feel that magic of Christmas again.

However, they realize that they still experienced something new. The magic of the mistletoe.

Is that an actual thing? Who knows.

But it worked on Pyra so it must be a thing, right?

It worked well after all.

...Too well.

[fandumb-whimsey]

Scarecrow Leg Observations/Headcanons

aka I thought about it too much and now it's everyone else's problem.

(important note: I am not in the medical field and I learned/looked up a lot of this with the help of Dr. Google)

The leg brace seems like a simple detail which can be overlooked in the larger design. On the surface, it's pretty straight forward: leg got damaged and now needs an orthopedic brace to function. This in and of itself is interesting since the artist undoubtedly referenced actual braces, specifically old ones, to fit Scarecrow's aesthetic:

This is a running theme with him; he seems to favor old, antique items and will repair things (like the use of duct tape or zigzag stitching for tears on his costume) before replacing them, which fits an image of someone coming from a background of poverty. Not entirely important to the conversation, just an interesting aside.

There is official material which states his leg is "permanently broken", which is probably the easiest, most succinct way to state this issue, but it's not entirely an accurate way to put it. If a leg is considered broken beyond repair, it's likely to be amputated. Bones which don't heal correctly the first time can be broken again and realigned to heal properly, often through surgery with the use of pins, rods, plates, and/or screws. However, "permanently broken" could also be implying he has suffered irreparable nerve damage which affects the use of the leg (more on that in a moment). One possibility: The bones in Scarecrow's leg do not heal properly due to the severity of his fractures likely needing surgery. Unable to access such resources after his run-in with Croc, this results in a malunion. In his case, the misalignment could be subtle as there is no obvious bend or twist in his leg, but still causes problems which requires use of a brace.

Another possibility: Perhaps he is lucky and his leg does heal well. Maybe there's no malunion at all. Unfortunately, whether the bones mend together well or not, evidence strongly implies that it was broken seriously enough that it damaged his peroneal nerve, leading to muscle weakness and foot drop, which necessitates the use of the brace to function.

If you look closely, you can see there is additional support around Scarecrow's ankle that would otherwise prevent rotation of that joint. You can see this in the game when he circles Batman on the airship:

When he takes a step with his good leg, the foot remains more parallel to the floor. Compare that to the foot in the brace, where the toes point upward with each stride due to being in a fixed position. I feel this is a strong indication of him having lasting damage here (such as foot drop) and part of why the leg brace is vital to his mobility (and undoubtedly one of many reasons why he's so furious at Batman).

Something like this often has trickle down effects. Having to compensate for a weaker limb can throw the body off balance, especially if it's a leg. This can create joint and back pain outside of (or in addition to) the issues related to the initial trauma. Combined with the other things he has had to deal with, there is something to be said of Scarecrow's tenacity. He is very driven and ambitious, even if it's the pure, seething drive for vengeance which causes him to persevere. It's a quality one can admire. :)

The rambling ends here, thanks for reading. And an extra big thanks to a very special someone who, without their help, none of this would be possible...I'm of course talking about my guy KILLER CROC for going absolutely feral in those Asylum sewers, really gave Jonny here a spooky glow-up, am I right?

Pictured: Scarecrow regretting his fear toxin frivolity into the sewers.

[macgyvermedical]

For episode explainers, have you done the episode of Psych where Shawn gets shot? S4e9

"...If you could just mail me to my dad's house now, that'd be... that'd be awesome."

I feel like I did this one, or maybe it's somewhere deep in my drafts, but I'll do it again, just for you Anon.

If you weren't watching American TV in the mid 2000s, Psych was a loosely-Sherlock-Holmes-based comedy about a brilliant detective who has severe ADD (as was the diagnosis at the time) which he uses, along with his father's extensive training, to pretend to be psychic.

In this particular episode, he ends up shot in the shoulder and kidnapped by the bad guys of the week, who are halfway through a plan to rob an armored vehicle transporting money between two banks.

So, essentially the big questions for this episode:

Where is the bullet wound exactly and is there a way to get shot in the shoulder that doesn't incur permanent damage?

Would his unconsciousness due to head injury be reasonable?

With said bullet wound and later head injury, would Shawn be able to escape the trunk, run for his life, and later jump between two moving vehicles with the extent of injury he suffered?

Bullet Wound:

So I get at least 2 asks a month that insinuate that getting shot in the shoulder (or abdomen) is some kind of relatively minor injury, and what can be done about them outside of a hospital.

Certainly that's how those kind of injuries are treated in fiction. Just to clear it up, however, getting shot in the shoulder is not only potentially life threatening due to non-tourniquet-able bleeding, but it can also be permanently disabling. Also, barring a shallow graze, there is no bullet-related shoulder injury that can be healed to full function without surgery.

Shoulders are not slabs of muscle- there's a TON of stuff in the shoulder that can be hella messed up by a bullet. These include the subclavian artery and vein, a nerve plexus, the brachial nerve, multiple bones, and tons of tiny little muscles (and also bigger muscles). Consider these 2 pics:

Based on where the blood makeup was applied, it looks like Shawn's wound starts maybe just above his rib cage but below his clavicle (shoulder bone), goes through his scapula (shoulder blade) and exits a little higher up than it entered. This puts him at risk for a lot of damage.

Potential damage includes: torn artery and vein (though unlikely given he did not bleed out where he was shot), injury to the nerve and nerve plexus (unlikely due to the fact that he is using his arm in the next episode), and potentially very bad injury to the scapula.

Duct taping the wound would do nothing for the bleeding without pressure also being applied, and while the guy that shot him was a sniper, likely with some combat first aid training, it doesn't look like he did much in the way of actually trying to stop bleeding.

To repair a torn artery or vein, a microsurgeon would have to literally sew the vessels back together. If they didn't, Shawn would have lost his arm. Or, in the case of injury to the vein, suffered permanent swelling in that arm.

Repairing a nerve is surprisingly more difficult. The surgeon basically sews the sheath around the nerve back together, but the nerve has to reconnect itself. This can take years and years, during which time the arm would be numb and paralyzed.

For the scapula, an orthopedic (bone) surgeon would have to replace all the pieces with either bone cement or fix them in place with metal plates. This would probably be the "easiest" to fix on the time frame in the episode.

Head injury:

When I started this blog 10 years ago, head injuries in fiction were used like they are in this episode- basically as a convenient way to knock someone out without lasting damage. As most of you know by this point, if someone is unconscious after a head injury, they are going to have some lasting damage.

In Shawn's case, it looks like he was out for long enough to move him to a chair and duct tape his wound. Maybe about 5 minutes. That's a fairly long time to be out after a head injury. Maybe not "learn to walk and talk again" but enough that he's going to spend the next few months unable to work, read, or look at screens without a fairly severe headache.

So, like, could this have happened? Sure, but the next episode would have to take place several months later, which I don't think it does.

Action scenes:

Well, Shawn would have trouble here. A broken scapula is going to severely limit movement and weight-bearing capacity on that left arm. He might have been able to run while holding the arm close to his body, but cutting the duct tape in the trunk of the car, texting Gus with both hands, and catching himself after jumping from the pickup to Lassiter's car would have been nearly impossible.

Also he would have spent probably several days in the hospital recovering from emergency surgery, and potentially months in outpatient physical and occupational therapy after a series of injuries like this.

So in conclusion, there was some literary license taken, as there usually is. Hope you liked it!

[annakie]

FIXING THE HOUSE - PART FOURTEEN (B) - THE TRUE FINAL CHAPTER!

Copper Green

Part One: I Do Not, In Fact, Have the Power

Part Two: Let’s Spend Lots of Money!

Part Three: All These Things That I’ve Done

Part Four: I Really Want to Stay At My House

A little interlude.

Part Five: Power Down

Part Six: You Will Leave Some Paint

Part Seven: Backwards to go Forwards

Part Eight: Master of Bathrooms

Part Nine: Within a Room, Somewhere

Part Ten: Rooms With No View

Part Eleven: Big Bang Room Part A and also Part B!

Part Twelve: We Can Make It On the Outside

Part Thirteen: Mauve Haze Symphony

Part Fourteen (A) - In the Kitchen

Part Fourteen (B) - Copper Green (YOU ARE FINALLY HERE!!)

Guys, we've arrived.

I can't believe this is the last Fixing the House post. Well, unless I find some other major thing to fix? But I SURE HOPE NOT. I don't have the money for that. :p

Y'all... I wasn't going to touch the kitchen. I really wasn't. I mean, I needed to get it rewired with the entire house. And it definitely had its quirks like we talked about at the end of the last post but it was... okay. It had the 2009 facelift and there were certainly bigger problems in the house. The "new" countertop and sink were holding up well 15 years later, still looked quite good! And OKAY we needed to replace the floor along with all the other new flooring Arturo put in, it's all one big room pretty much and there was a little water damage around the sink and fridge, but it wasn't terrible.

Well. Then... things happened.

Honestly, the first thing that happened was the flooring, like I talked about. I'd written out a priority list and there were a couple of "nice to have" things in the kitchen but they all ranked low. But the thing was, there had been one thing in the kitchen I really wanted, but looking at my budget, after asking Arturo the price of the floor vs the price of the thing I wanted... I went with the floors.

What I really wanted though was new cabinet doors and drawers.

I'd just said in the previous post (and tbh I added it a few minutes after posting, in case you read the previous post right after I posted it) that the bottom cabinet doors would just open on their own all the time. Annoying. And the drawers kept falling off the tracks, and one drawer had fallen apart and so was wasted space.

So I didn't even want new cabinets, JUST the doors and drawers, maybe something more modern than the cheap and obviously 60's doors that were there. I think the layout of the kitchen is as good as it could get without like HUGE fixes.

(And hilariously - and putting this out there first that we did not do this, - Arturo had A PLAN of what he really wanted to do. He VERY MUCH wants to tear out that entire wall with the oven and pantry, and put in a HUGE island. We'd have to do a post or two for support. I pointed out that I'd lose the pantry, and a couple of days later he came back with a plan to move the pantry to the side closer to the door, and also to raise the dropped ceiling by re-routing the air ducts located there, which is the reason for the lower ceiling in the kitchen anyway. If ever in the future there is an update to this series of posts... that's probably going to be why. But no, we didn't do that. I'm thinking about it for some day when I get a financial windfall though :p )

But... yeah. Looking at the budget, the floor was in worse shape, more practical, more economical.

Then, when I'd made peace in my heart that we were just not going to really touch the Okay Kitchen much, two things happened.

First, my mom called one night to discuss how things were going. We had a good long talk and near the end she asked about the kitchen. I told her that I had thought about the cabinets and had Arturo price it for me, and it would be about the same as the floor, so I'd chosen the floor. "Do both," mom said. "There's money if you need it. I know you're good for it."

Not wanting to take a loan from my parents, I told her thank you and I'd think about it.

And then right about the same time, Arturo told me how his brother, who was also a contractor, had, a couple of years ago, renovated a hotel. In one part of the hotel they'd put in this granite, and then the hotel owner decided a few days later he didn't like that granite and told Arturo's brother to get rid of it and bought some new countertop.

Instead of throwing it away, Arturo's brother stored that basically new granite in Arturo's backyard. Where it had sat since then.

Both Arturo's wife and the city (or maybe HOA?) were telling him he had to get rid of it. He showed me a picture of it. The picture was taken at night and kind of grainy so I wasn't sure about it.

So he brought me a sample the next day, just a like 1' wide piece.

It was black and kind of coppery in person and I fell in love almost instantly. I put the shittiest picture he sent me up there on purpose.

"Well," I asked. "How much?" Granite was a pipe dream, after all. I hadn't ever seriously dared to dream about ever having granite. I mean, really. GRANITE? In this house? Not possible.

"Oh," Arturo replied "you can just have it. You'll have to pay my regular countertop guy for the install but that should only be like, $500."

My jaw practically dropped open. What the fuck. Granite didn't belong in this house. And now I could have it?!? For FREE!?!

I was almost in tears when I told Arturo yes, and thanked him like a thousand times.

That night I called my mom, told her what Arturo said, and asked for that loan.

I mean, hell, I couldn't get granite countertops without getting the cabinets done, right?

---

It wasn't just the doors. When I decided to do this, it triggered something else. I just needed to do the kitchen right this time. It was okay now. But it could be even better, and mom agreed. I was at this point invested in making sure the whole house had all the shitty things fixed. I could have the best kitchen a reasonable budget could give me. I was getting granite countertops and new cabinets and I needed to bring a few more things up to that quality.

Look, I haven't posted many pics yet, so let's start with these. They're kinda like one I posted from 2009! But these instead have Fry checking things out. I guess technically these pics come after the next one because this was countertop day, ah well.

What you can see in these pictures is that the drawers would be on secure tracks along the side instead of one track hanging overhead, that was easy to drop off of.

I made the decision that the backsplash had to get upgraded. That wasn't an easy decision but as much as I loved the copper tiles... they were losing their luster and needed to go.

I didn't want to entirely lose the "old copper" though. I did look into what a new range hood would cost and decided the old one was just fine, thank you, let's keep that and the lazy susan in the pantry as the cool reminders of the kitchen's roots.

I asked Arturo for more outlets there in that pic above by the fridge. New lighting above the sink, wired in and not taking up a precious outlet.

A week or so later, just a day or two after the new floors were in, there was a knock on the door and a whole crew of 20-something guys streamed in. I had no idea it took a village to replace a small kitchen's worth of doors and drawers, but everything had been made.

I stayed out of their way and let them do their thing all afternoon.

Throughout the day the old doors came off, and the naked new doors went in. It was honestly a bit bittersweet, seeing the old doors get stacked up to probably be discarded. They took them, though. Maybe they resold them as vintage. I do not care.

At the end of that day, the kitchen looked like this:

One drawer and that end cabinet needed refitting, and the drawers on the other side, but holy crap, look, I have Shaker-Style cabinets! Not painted yet, no handles or knobs yet, but they had... hinges with springs??!!? They aren't super fancy, no soft-close or anything but the drawers... I mean they stayed on their tracks?? Didn't just fall open!? AND YOU CAN OPEN THEM ALL THE WAY AND GET TO WHAT'S IN BACK?

(Sidenote: Remember how said the old cabinet doors came open on their own all the time? Turns out I was wrong. The night after these went in Pemily started crying LOUDLY in the kitchen when... it turns out she couldn't open these cabinets. Yeah, the old doors didn't have springs in the hinges and SHE was the one opening them all the time, she just hates closed doors! She can't get these open, the springed hinges make them too heavy for her. It took several days for her to stop crying about it. I would show her what's inside sometimes to calm her down.)

---

Arturo said he should have told me before the cabinet guys showed up to empty the kitchen, so I made their lives harder by not having that done, so I got started on that ASAP that night.

That was was RIGHT after we got the dining room furniture put back in the dining room. Got most of the boxes from the Office/DR unpacked (not the green china cabinet, as you can see below) and put away and immediately the DR looked like this.

I also took the opportunity to do a big purge of the kitchen. That huge box in the front left became where I put all the cookware, dishware and utensils that I no longer wanted. I threw out like five trash bags of expired food but mostly expired cleaning products and misc kitchen things that I no longer wanted but weren't good enough for giveaway.

A lot of the things put in that box or thrown out once belonged to my grandparents, a lot of that red and green pattern dishware from that previous post's picture. I just didn't use most of it and had gotten stuff that was more to my taste.

I called my parents and for some reason felt like I needed permission to get rid of it. They granted it, absolving any guilt I had. I just was tired of having crammed cabinets. It was time to make hard choices. I ended up giving that box of stuff to my across the street neighbors. They have yard sales often and so knowing the stuff probably got sold to someone else and is still in use somewhere feels better than knowing it went directly in the trash. I had planned to donate it to Goodwill or something but honestly my neighbor benefiting from it with no more effort from me felt just fine, thanks!

Around this time, another box arrived, something I'd shopped many hours for and had mostly bought with accumulated points on my credit card. I was so excited, it was one of my favorite things I'd bought.

Here's a preview.

We'll get back to it, though.

---

There was a bit of drama with the granite countertop install. Arturo's normal guys decided to try and charge me double of what they would normally charge for an install this size. They showed up to do the work then told Arturo it'd be $800. Arturo got into a slightly heated argument with them and threw them out of my house. He said they were trying to take advantage of me, and wouldn't let them.

Two days later another pair of guys he worked with, normally his second choice, showed up. They wanted $430. DONE!

Arturo is amazing, y'all. And these guys did an amazing job on the countertop install.

That night when it was in, I stood in the kitchen for, I don't know, twenty minutes or so like crying with joy just repeatedly wiping down and running my fingers over the granite. It was so gorgeous, it was beyond what I imagined I could ever have in my house, when I started with that ancient, yellowed, worn-out countertop 21 years ago.

My kitchen was going to be pretty. It could be something to walk into and say "WOW!" about, instead of me feeling like I had to apologize for.

---

So, backsplash.

I looked at several places online but it was on Amazon that I fell in love. I knew the second I saw it that it was perfect. I ordered the boxes without consulting Arturo, and somehow managed to buy the exact right number.

I knew pretty early on what color I wanted the cabinets. It wouldn't be a gigantic change, but I was sure the second I saw it that it was perfect. I wanted classic Americana. I wanted the perfect compliment to the star of the show in the kitchen.

I wanted Sage. Just the sage that was simply called Sage in the Sherwin-Williams Swatch Book. I considered other sages, but no. The classic Sage was perfect.

The final cabinet fitting with the Cabinet Crew happened a week or so after the first. It was really not fun being without a fully functional kitchen for like two weeks but I lived through the inconvenience, I could always microwave or crock pot even on the most inconvenient days. After they were done, Arturo took all the doors and drawers back off. They were all painted in one day in the backyard thanks to spray-pump technology. It took me DAYS to do it the first time in 2004! And look at this, it wasn't much past noon when I took the above pic!

I was even more certain that I made the right color choice as soon as I saw the final product.

It took a day for the cabinets themselves to get painted.

Around then we also started talking wall colors for the kitchen and pantry. I knew the pantry shelves would also be sage, and the pantry door. But the walls...

Something in me said no to green walls. Too much green. Something in me said... go bold.

The backsplash had arrived recently and there was a bit in the backsplash that I really loved, and I was like... would this be crazy? Should the rest of the walls pull out this color?? The color was a very dark brown. Like, a coppery brown. Dark brown walls. Is it insane? Janarie (Arturo's main painter) and my mom both sounded very unconvinced when I discussed it with them. I was split between two browns, and I brought my idea to Arturo, and he said that he actually had a practically new gallon of one of those colors, Black Bean, from his previous job, so we wouldn't even have to buy that paint. Hell yeah.

The doors got put on as soon as the cabinets were dry a day or so later. The backsplash went on that same day, Arturo and his guys stayed late to get the backsplash on so the grout could dry overnight.

The grout... I'd picked a brown, matching Black Bean almost exactly. Pulling it together even more.

When the backsplash was on, Arturo confessed that he thought maybe after seeing it on the walls that Black Bean was going to be too dark with the backsplash and brown grout. We talked about instead painting the walls an offwhite.

The pantry was small and would look even smaller and TOO dark if it were done in Black Bean, we'd both agreed on that. So I got the Sherwin Williams website to tell me what shade of white went well with Sage. It gave me Heron White, so we got a gallon of that, thinking we'd probably do all the walls that color at that point. The pantry walls got done that day and I asked Janarie to hold off starting on the kitchen walls until Arturo and I could talk about it, she painted the shelves sage instead. The Heron White looked more off-white-y on the website than in person and I was like... I do not want pure white walls in my kitchen. I just don't.

So when Arturo got there we decided to go ahead with the Black Bean plan after all, and hey, it's just paint and if we hated it, we do another color.

We did the small wall where the lightswitch is by the microwave first.

And it looked fucking awesome.

Arturo and Janarie quickly painted all of the walls in the kitchen Black Bean. I started a new little project at the end of the day and got all my real copper bottom cookware all polished. I'd bought a used 1960's set of Revere Ware, from when it had pure copper bottoms from Ebay a few years ago. It was an economical way to get some quality copper cookware and I'm very happy with it, though the handles sometimes need repairs.

That night i screwed new (copper colored) hooks into my pots and pans wall, that same wall Dad and I had covered with paneling... and holy shit, look how amazing this looks y'all.

Black Bean and polished copper, an outstanding combination. I love it so much.

We ended up painting the ceiling the Heron white, as it had gotten a bit gnarly with splashes and time, and it looks amazing. That's also done in the above picture.

---

I bought a few more things like perfectly matching sage potholders and dishcloths (from All Clad, sure why not? The color is right!)

One more thing to talk about so I can just post another picture -- another small change i had done was had a light put in the pantry. It was always so dark and hard to see in parts of the pantry. No more!

Heron white and sage pantry! I also bought those new copper canisters for fresh coffee grounds always, and another set behind it for flour/sugars/oats.

One thing about the pantry... THE FREAKING DOOR.

We had to replace the ugly door that came off the tracks with a door that fit, and stayed on the tracks, and was pretty.

We got a solid bi-fold door. Arturo put it on and I LOVED IT.

But then I thought the handle was too high. So I asked if we could move the handle. He said no, but we could flip the door over and it would be lower.

So we did that. And then over the next couple of days I realized it made it so the door as opening from the wrong half of the fold and was harder to open in general.

One of the few times I genuinely annoyed Arturo for during the renovations was when I asked him to flip the door back over, lol. But he did it. SORRY ARTURO. You were right and I was WRONG!

Now painted, with pretty new door pull, too!

---

What knobs/cabinet/drawer pulls were like another big area I spent a LOT of time. I shopped around the stores but I wanted things that went together. I found on Amazon an entire set of things that were handles, cup pulls and knobs. Arturo and I talked a lot about what went where and in what configuration but in the end I found exactly what I wanted. I almost made a real dumb decision to get cup pulls for EVERYTHING but Arturo and some pictures I saw where someone else did that talked me out of it.

The color on the knobs on top in particular is a little brighter than I'd like but the style is exactly what I wanted and it's a very tiny thing I can live with.

Okay and KITCHEN LIGHTING is a big thing.

Those stupid, deep recessed wells where the lights were? Arturo went "Yeah we're covering those up and putting in can lights." I tried suggesting putting some dangling pendulum type lights that would reach the bottom of the wells to keep some of the depth of the wells, since the ceiling is so low in the kitchen, but he said that those still wouldn't distribute light well and it would still be dark in the kitchen. He talked me into covering the wells and putting in can lights like the office/dining room.

So I agreed, and he was right.

---

OK here, judge my 2024 food choices.

Or just tell me how great my Sage and Heron White pantry looks. It's a bit better organized now than in this pic.

----

Okay, y'all. Let's finally do some real reveal pics!!!

Guys. GUYS.

The bright lighting.

The Black Bean wall.

The Sage shaker-style cabinet doors.

The Copper knobs, cup pulls and snag-free door handles.

The All-Clad sage potholders.

THE GRANITE COUNTERTOPS.

The new floor.

THE BACKSPLASH. Copper. Hexagons. In three colors of copper, and dark brown grout that lets the copper be the centerpiece. Closeup of that coming soon.

A sliver of the new pantry door.

OH and I didn't even mention... we painted the oven black with a special heat-resistant paint so that it fit in better. Yes, I still have the same oven. It works fine, except for the 50-degrees off thing which is not at all a problem once you know about it. Maybe someday I'll get a new one, but I truly don't need it now and there were a lot of places that needed the investment more. It blends into the kitchen painted black and I'm very happy with it.

Um, I think at some point I mentioned I love copper, right?

I got copper-colored flatware.

But also... look at these drawers that smoothly pull out all the way and stay on their tracks!!!

A closer look at that backsplash and the painted oven. New copper spoon rest. Also the kitchen utensil holder is new. I've gotten rid of most of the black utensils and replaced them with stainless steel since.

It all goes together so well.

Reverse angle!

Oh! One more new thing I forgot to mention I think anywhere (Maybe in the dining room post? Not sure?) is that we also put a new light and switch in over the entryway. I realized that when we took out the old ceiling fan and put in one that didn't have a light, that when I entered the house from the garage I had no immediate access to any light since the lights in the dining room are on the wall opposite the oven. So we took out a very old ADT alarm panel, which came with the house when I bought it and was nothing but an eyesore, put a new lightswitch and single light there for immediate entryway lighting. Brighter and more convenient!

Also the door handle on the door to the garage was VERY weirdly about six inches into the door instead of a normal length. No idea why, but it required a special doorknob that was in bad shape. Since we were replacing all the doorknobs in the house, Arturo had to drill a new doorknob hole and he somehow seamlessly patched the old hole, I don't know how he did it but you can't even see the old hole. Now the doorknob is right where you'd expect it to be.

But here's a picture where you can see I'd shoved a dishtowel in the old hole for insulation before it was patched lol.

-----

Okay, okay so... let's look at the other half of the kitchen. In just a sec.

My entire adult life I have dreamed about a certain thing in my kitchen... well I mean besides granite countertops.

A copper sink.

So I started wondering if I could possibly afford that.

And YEOUCH. They ranged from pricey but... maybe to lol no that's more than I'm spending on the rest of the kitchen two or three times over.

Also I started really reading into what it took to maintain one and was like uhhh... that seems like a lot of work. Maybe not.

And then I saw online this one company... Strictly Sinks? And they did colored stainless steel sinks? And they were... okay definitely not cheap but relatively affordable. And they made copper colored stainless steel sinks. Pretty well reviewed, too.

And... I just absolutely fell in love. With one in particular.

The next day I showed it to Arturo and asked if we could make it work and he was like "Yes we can, and you have to get that sink. It's beautiful."

So I DID IT.

We'd also need a new faucet, and we measured and discussed how high I could go for a new faucet with the cabinet there. I took a chance with one that I absolutely loved.

And it all came together more amazingly than I could have ever hoped for.

Y'all... just... just look at this.

Pemily says Hi, and wants to know if you can open the cabinet doors for her please.

I cannot believe this is my house.

An under-counter farmhouse style sink in the most gorgeous copper color and the easy maintainability of stainless steel.

A faucet that fits with enough clearance under the sink that's tall enough to fill a big pot, and in an absolutely perfect, oil-rubbed bronze color.

I love that you pull down the head of it for a very flexible hose so you can spray ANYWHERE easily. It has three modes of spray. A regular stream, a light circular shower shown above, and a a button to push that turns it into a heavy spray.

And the sink. It's so gorgeous. I'm so happy with EVERYTHING about it. The sink came with the grates to help protect the bottom and keep the bottoms of pots/dishes soaking from getting gunky. If you look at the close-up pic of the stove area there's a beautiful wooden cutting board that the sink also came with that slots right over the sink for easy chopping and scraping right into the garbage disposal.

(Speaking of which, when they took out my old sink they damaged the garbage disposal so Arturo gave me a new one for free he already had laying around. Let's hope this one stays working well.)

The square bowls and drains are so stylish, too. The color is perfect. I'm so happy about it. When people walk into the kitchen the sink is the first thing they notice and ooh over. It's the centerpiece, and it deserves it as much as the granite. The backsplash gets its fair share of attention as well. And the Black Bean really was the right choice for the walls. The lighting situation has improved so much that even with the darker appliances and black countertop, I really thinks everything comes together and balances so well.

Look at the SHINE!

I had the copper containers by the sink already but my favorite drink mixes and snacks go in there for easy access. Also yay, four outlets! Bought a new toaster, too.

And the over-sink lighting is hard wired, bright LED lights that stretch about 2/3rds of the way under the counter. It looks fantastic and so dramatic in the dark as you can see in the first reveal pic above. I keep it on on all day now, it's bright enough that I often don't turn on the overhead lights.

Who knew a kitchen didn't have to be dim and dingy?!

I love it so much y'all. So. Very. Much.

---

But there's been ONE more big change since these pics were taken.

The fridge there... so we painted it black with a thick sticky paint and... I painted it more after that picture and it looked pretty good!

But it had also been making a lot of noise for the last couple of years, getting worse all the time.

It was 21 years old, and very cheap when I bought it. I wasn't sure it was doing its job that well anymore. And it had the "can't open all the way" problem discussed in the previous post.

My parents had visited a few weeks earlier, as had my bro/SIL+ niblings and all had commented on the noise. The fridge was dying y'all and that is one thing you don't want to delay on too long. I'd been delaying awhile.

So I told my mom I was going to delay paying her back for a little while longer and on Black Friday did a lot of research, went to Lowe's and made a decision.

A side-by-side. Whirlpool so hopefully quality (New dishwasher is Whirlpool and doing great after 4 years.)

It's pretty much the smallest full-size side by side there is and i had very specific size requirements.

Verrrrry specific, lol. Honestly this is bad because it's supposed to have more room to vent, so I have it pulled away from the wall a bit more than I would otherwise. This fridge fits in the space., but not by much.

It's beautiful!

And I can stand in front of it and open both doors all the way.

Please feel free to continue judging my food choices.

It is THE last Big Purchase. It's now time for repayment and re-savings.

Well, as soon as I finish getting the generator hooked up. I have the stuff I need, just gotta get the electrician out to do the work.

---

HEY, if you've read all this, thank you so much for reading/liking/commenting! I know it's been a six-month saga for us both! I hope it was fun / entertaining to read, but mostly it was self-indulgent for me.

I honestly hope every one of you get to someday make your living space into what you want it to in a budget-friendly(ish!) way.

And I hope you all find your own Arturos if you want one!

Merry Christmas / Happy Hanukkah / Happy Holidays / Happy New Year y'all! <3

[limpfisted]

some disability wyll stuff regarding occular prosthesis. eye trauma tw, obviously. i do not have any eye prothesis and am not a doctor or historian, but i wanna talk about wyll seriously as disabled and fantasy disabled rep

medieval “glass eyes” were UNCOMFORTABLE.

modern day prothesis need to be removed and cleaned every three weeks or so. every six months or so, they need to be polished. debris/grit/slime can get on the outside of the eye. the eye can be scratched and grow cloudy.

the modern prosthesis needs to be replaced every so often. you’ll notice it because your eye socket will shift and change, and so it needs to be refitted to be more comfortable. your socket/eyelid will eventually start to sag, your tear ducts will leak discharge, and you might start to get infections and further dryness when it needs to be replaced.

bc wyll’s eye is a sending stone—we can assume that mizora is the only one who is allowed to replace it. we dont know if wyll is allowed to take out his eye and clean it himself—but tbh. we can make some assumptions considering the eye itself is a method of controlling him

she uses the maintenance/upkeep/replacements of the eye as a further way to control him, and probably further humiliate him lbr

we can also probably extrapolate that while his eye was damaged in the fight with mizora, mizora was the one who removed it and thats how he got the scars on his face. we don’t know if she used anaesthesia. considring the scars on the face make it seem like he at least tried to struggle, probably not

a big reason wyll is really good disabled rep to me personally, is a lot of disabled people rely on abusers as “caretakers” and then cant leave them. even when theyre not particularly good caretakers

its also worth noting again it can take people who lose an eye months to recover, WITH physical therapy. judging distances, holding things, cutting food, driving, are all things that can be hard at first. plus depression, ptsd, feeling dysphoric and a sense of loss

wyll has to relearn how to fight p much, and do it all on his own. we dont know when he got his first contract from mizora. we dont know the first time he was sent to avernus

but u can imagine mizora wasnt altogether kind about it.

in general i think wyll deserves a soft eyepatch and to never have to wear a prothesis again, that would be so traumatic tbh

[isawthesainz]

Race Recap 22: Las Vegas, USA

Sunday 24th November 2024

Build-Up:

Following the Brazilian Grand Prix, Mercedes is given two €5,000 fines for adjusting the tyre pressure on both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell’s cars after the aborted race start. Carlos Sainz is also reprimanded for moving the car whilst the marshals were attempting recovery following his crash. Both Russell and Lando Norris are fined €5,000 for leaving the grid after the aborted start signal was shown

Norris labels Max Verstappen’s victory in Brazil ‘just luck’, adding that he thought the race ‘shouldn’t have been red flagged’

On 6th November, Zhou Guanyu announces that he will part ways with Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber at the end of the 2024 season

Later that day, it is announced that Gabriel Bortoleto had signed a multi-year contract with Stake from 2025. Valtteri Bottas will leave the team at the end of the 2024 season

Also on 6th November, it is reported that Red Bull will need to pay Williams $20 million in compensation to break Franco Colapinto out of his current contract

It is also rumoured that Bottas will return to Mercedes as a reserve driver in 2025

On 7th November, the F1 Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) releases a robust statement urging the FIA to reconsider its approach to penalties, driver conduct, and fines, particularly with regards to recent fines for swearing

On 11th November, it is reported by a Spanish newspaper that Sergio Perez will remain at Red Bull for the 2025 season

On 12th November, it is announced that Alpine will switch to a Mercedes-Benz power unit and gearbox from 2026

It is also announced that F1 Race Director Niels Wittich (who replaced Michael Massi in 2022) has stepped down from the role with immediate effect

Also on 12th November, it is announced that F1 will host a season launch event for the 2025 season at the O2 Arena in London on 18th February 2025. All 10 teams will unveil their 2025 cars during the event with all 20 drivers present

On 14th November, it is announced that the Monaco Grand Prix will remain on the F1 calendar until at least 2031

On 17th November, it is announced that Stéfano Domenicali will leave his position as F1’s CEO

On 22nd November, it is reported that F1 is set to welcome an eleventh team for the 2026 season and beyond. It is understood to be the continuation of the Andretti project. However, the proposed name is not yet clear, with General Motors believed to be taking on greater involvement

Alex Albon brings out the red flag in FP2 after stopping on track in the pit lane exit with a fuel system issue

Lance Stroll also brings out the red flag in FP3 after his car starts smoking and he is forced to stop on track

Franco Colapinto brings out the yellow flag in Q2 after crashing into the barriers. The Williams is destroyed, with a missing tyre, damage to two other tyres and half of the front wing missing

Race Highlights:

Russell starts the race in pole position, followed by Sainz and Pierre Gasly, but Charles Leclerc is able to over take Gasly and Sainz on the first corner

Oscar Piastri receives a 5-second penalty for a false start

On Lap 13, Esteban Ocon misses the pit box, leaves the pits, goes around another lap, and then pits again

On Lap 16, Gasly reports on the radio that something is wrong with his car. Alpine respond that there were no issues, but smoke is then seen billowing out of the car. Gasly is able to bring the car back to the garage to retire from the race

At the halfway point, Williams tell Albon to retire the car due to mechanical issues. It looked like a plastic bag was stuck in an air duct

On Lap 27, Sainz crosses the line for the pit lane, but Ferrari tell him to stay out at the last minute

On Lap 33, Russell comes into the pits with a 32-second lead over his teammate. He rejoins the race maintaining the lead, still 13 seconds ahead of Hamilton

Verstappen finishes in fifth ahead of Norris in sixth, meaning he achieves his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship victory

Race Results:

1st Place: George Russell

2nd Place: Lewis Hamilton

3rd Place: Carlos Sainz

[atopfourthwall]

Watching thru Star Trek Voyager for the first time. Do you like this series if so, favorite episode?

Posting my full thoughts below a read more because spoilers. But it's a mixed bag at best, favorite episode the two-parter Scorpion.

It's biggest issue is that it refuses to abide by its central concept: a Starfleet vessel lost 70,000 lightyears from home with few resources and in a place the Federation have never been to, made up of a mixed crew of both Starfleet and the Maquis - a rogue terrorist organization set on freedom from Cardassian oppression due to shitty treaties the Federation made in the name of peace.

Voyager goes for seven years and you would think with a premise like this, the ship should be a WRECK by the time it gets home - barely held together with duct tape, flickering lights and debris in spots because there just isn't time or necessity to deal with minor stuff like that when there are bigger concerns to deal with. You'd think the crew has gotten more lax, dirtier or with more rolled up sleeves and casualwear as the situation has made them less of a formal structure like a regular Starfleet vessel and more like a found family, maybe with a ton of alien crewmembers from the Delta Quadrant who have decided to join Voyager along the way because they (and the Federation by proxy) have offered something that wasn't present in their corner of the galaxy, something better and they want to join the mission back home. You'd think the ship itself would have changed in appearance as they've had to patch it with technology and because they don't have regular drydocks to replace lost/damaged systems and bulkheads. Sure, Star Trek has replicator technology, but I can't imagine Voyager has MASSIVE replication technology capable of creating HUGE swaths of the hull. At the very least, you'd think you'd see cracks in the hull hastily sealed up - maybe a kind of Kintsugi thing where the cracks are a different color because of special alien material used to keep it strong. You'd think those Maquis crewmembers, despite being former Starfleet, wouldn't be wearing Starfleet uniforms because why would they? They're here because they're stuck and what's Starfleet going to do if they haven't shined their boots? Throw them all in the brig for however long it takes to get home? More interpersonal conflicts between crewmen as they have to find a way to live together, have different approaches to solving problems, maybe deal with the crippling loneliness and despair that comes with thinking you may never make it home (either because of the dangers of space travel or just because it'll be 70 years on our current technology to get there).

But no. Nothing like that ever happens in Voyager.

Because it followed the pattern that had made Star Trek TNG so successful (despite it having a premise that DEMANDS more serialization), every episode the reset button is pressed. The ship is restored to normal, character development is rare or confined to a single episode. The few attempts at serialization are just… badly written (or just met with a shrug), which probably explains why they mostly dropped it in later seasons. You'd be forgiven for watching the first episode and then the last while thinking "Wow, not much changed except for Janeway's hairstyle."

Oh, but there WAS change… just not very much. A new cast member to replace one leaving… and a character brought on to be the breakout character - one of the few times we brought on new crew from this part of the galaxy - was shuffled away the episode beforehand because inexplicably some of his people were farther out than they ever should have been and he decided to stay with them because he met them for a few days. A romance between cast members that… was okay, but not great. Another romance introduced at the last second because they needed one of their characters to actually DO something because they had spent 7 years inventing boring hobbies and interests for him separate from his identity as fake-90s-Native American-whose-entire-culture-was-thought-up-by-a-fraud-who-tricked-Hollywood-into-thinking-he-knew-what-he-was-talking-about.

A lot of plots could have happened on any other Trek show. A lot of plots dealt with "Hey, maybe we'll get home THIS time!" and they of course would not. They invented a whole new way of propulsion that allowed you to be in every spot in the universe at once (and easily reversed the negative side effects by the end of the episode)… aaand then just pretended it never happened. The recurring villain enemies ranged from godawful to okay, but not fully realized.

Behind the scenes it was often full of office politics before actual quality. Whenever an episode needed some padding? Add technobabble. Have an ambitious idea for an episode? Nope, we're not interested in anything challenging. Do anything that might make the characters look bad or have more shades to them? Noooope. There were plans and ideas, things thrown out like, for instance, a year-long storyline where the ship would get as battered as I suggested… and it was shot down, turned into a two-parter with the reset button pushed hard at the end of it.

There's plenty to like about Voyager. Some really do love the characters and I like a lot of them, too. And there are plenty of episodes that I recommend and really enjoy and rewatch… but it's mostly wasted potential. It's telling that Ron Moore, who joined Voyager's writing staff after Deep Space 9 ended because he wanted to keep doing Star Trek, left after only 3 episodes… and went on to make the Battlestar Galactica remake, which for all its flaws did the Voyager concept considerably better and with all of those ideas I mentioned up top concerning the crew, the damage to the ship, the shades of grey, the hopelesness at times but still hope, etc.

[grand-theft-carbohydrates]

that feeling when 99 plays in the last episode and it slowly dawns on you that it's reigen's theme song. i need 2 million yen right now for replacement tear ducts. and another 20 million for emotional damages.

[lumenflowered]

Some options for removing scorch marks from flooring:

Turn back time to before the marks happened

Rip out the floor and replace it and pretend you didn't have to

Cause different damage over the marks to obscure them

Cover the marks in duct tape as a "temporary" measure forever

Use a water, ground, or rock type move on the floor to counter fire

Adamantly deny that the marks on the floor are from scorching

Scorch the rest of the floor evenly so the marks don't show

Burn down the house, change your name, move to another region, and never speak of this shame again

Not an option.

Hypothetically viable but I would have to find new flooring to replace it with.

Then I would have a different problem?

I am thoroughly uncertain as to where Reina keeps the duct tape.

I don't think it was actually a Fire-type move, exactly, though I see your logic.

I am a bad liar.

While I am certain my Arcanine would love to do so, I do not believe anyone else would love him doing this.

It is not my house to burn down. I happen to like my name. I would rather not move to another region. I am quite happy to do that last part though.

[purebreezeairductcleaners]

How to Use Regular Inspections to Identify Air Duct Replacement Needs

Air ducts play a vital role in maintaining your home’s comfort by circulating air efficiently throughout your space. Over time, air ducts can become damaged, leaky, or clogged with debris, which impacts their performance. Regular inspections are essential to catch these issues early and prevent costly repairs. In some cases, these inspections may reveal the need for air duct replacement to ensure optimal HVAC performance and air quality.

The Importance of Regular Air Duct Inspections

Regular inspections of your air ducts are crucial for identifying potential problems before they escalate. Over time, ducts can develop cracks, loose connections, or even suffer from blockages due to accumulated debris. These issues can lead to inefficient airflow, uneven room temperatures, and increased energy consumption. Early detection through routine inspections helps address these problems, preventing more significant damage that might require an urgent air duct replacement.

Signs Your Air Ducts May Need Replacement

There are several signs that your air ducts may require attention. If you notice uneven heating or cooling, higher-than-usual energy bills, or excessive dust buildup in your home, these could be red flags. Other indicators include strange noises coming from your HVAC system or visible damage to ductwork during an inspection. When these signs appear, a professional assessment can determine whether air duct replacement is necessary.

Extending the Life of Your HVAC System Through Inspections

Regular air duct inspections not only identify when replacement is needed but also help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. Addressing minor issues early prevents them from escalating into major problems that can overwork your system. This proactive approach can save you money on energy costs and avoid the need for premature HVAC replacements. Routine maintenance, paired with timely air duct replacement, ensures your system operates efficiently for years.

Benefits of Air Duct Replacement

When inspections reveal significant duct damage, replacing the ducts can bring several benefits. A new duct system eliminates leaks, improving airflow and ensuring consistent temperatures throughout your home. This also enhances your HVAC system’s energy efficiency, helping to reduce utility bills. Moreover, air duct replacement improves indoor air quality by preventing contaminants like dust, mold, and allergens from circulating, making your home a healthier place.

How Often Should You Schedule Inspections?

To maintain a well-functioning HVAC system, it’s recommended to schedule air duct inspections every three to five years. However, homes with older systems, frequent HVAC usage, or noticeable performance issues may require more frequent inspections. By identifying problems early, you can plan for necessary maintenance or air duct replacement, avoiding unexpected disruptions and ensuring consistent home comfort.

Stay Ahead with Proactive Air Duct Care

Don’t let hidden air duct issues compromise your home’s comfort and efficiency. Regular inspections are the key to maintaining a healthy HVAC system. If your ducts show signs of wear or damage, consider scheduling a professional evaluation. When replacement is necessary, air duct replacement ensures your system runs smoothly, providing a more comfortable and energy-efficient home environment.

[practically-an-x-man]

Cassandra crashes through your OCs' window, battered and covered in blood. It looks like she just lost a fight with the supervillain of the week, and she has a broken wing that she can't reverse the transmogrification spell on without hurting herself more. What do they do?

Ooooh, thank you!!

Rae: Actually knows how to set a broken wing, thanks to living with Warren, and promptly does so. She bandages up Cassandra's other wounds, offers her some water and a quick meal if it'll help, and sends her on her way.

Robin: Sends her down to Hank's lab to get medical attention, and immediately calls someone to repair the window - it wouldn't be the first time she's had to get that replaced.

Madison: Probably throws a knife at her at first, just as a reflex to her crashing through the window, but once she gets over the immediate shock she offers some field first aid and tries to get her broken wing set well enough for it to starting healing or for Cassandra to reverse the spell.

Ophelia: Brings her into her lab and patches her up, but asks way too many questions about how she's able to spontaneously generate functional, biological wings without any apparent conservation of matter. Probably also grabs her actuators to take care of the supervillain herself, once she's finished cleaning Cassandra up.

Gia: Screams and throws flowerpots at her until Cassandra staggers out to find some other help, then patches up the window with duct tape and a sheet of plastic and checks her bank account to see if she can even afford to have it replaced. She also doesn't sleep for a week after that.

Jasper: Dealing with wings is... new, but they look up a few anatomical diagrams and veterinary guidelines and are able to set the bone using that and their medical background to guide them. Cassandra might be a little surprised at how nonchalant Jasper is (at least after they've gotten over the shock of her crashing through the window), but they've dealt with witches before.

Kestrel: Goes to grab Warren, since he's got more experience with it than they do (hard to set your own broken wing when you're in kestrel form, and all) (also it's funny that both Warrens would have experience with this lmao), and he gets the bone set and splinted. Kestrel then uses a healing charm to heal it up enough for Cassandra to reverse her spell and remove the wings.

Katherine: Calls on Heka to regenerate Cassandra's own magical energy, so she can take care of her own healing and transmogrification spells, and the two of them proceed to spend hours talking about and comparing their respective forms of magic.

Quinn: Assumes it's some sort of hallucination and literally ignores Cassandra until she just gives up. Only realizes it was real when Billy asks her why the wall of her trailer is all dented in.

Eris: At best, offers to cut Cassandra's broken wing off so she can reverse the spell (it can't heal wrong if it's not there, right?). At worst, immediately jumps into the fight and probably does more damage than the original supervillain.

Nikoletta: Tries to help as best she can (there's a half-formed idea somewhere about sending Cassandra's wings to the shadow realm as a makeshift way of reversing the spell, but I'm not sure that really makes sense), but makes Cassandra promise in writing to pay for the window repair since Nik really can't afford to pay for it herself. She's also really curious about Cassandra's shadow-based magic and spends a while talking about it (and secretly spends the next week trying to see if she can summon wings of her own)

Jimmy: With much respect to Jimmy... what the fuck would he do? I guess he'd call someone at the Paranormal Research Center and see if they can help, but there's really not much he can offer here.

[skizzmm]

Not your average dentist

characters: Rizer Schafer x Kain saint basin

word count: 8454

warnings: blood & gore, rizer sticks his finger in kains wound

-

Rizer adjusted his glasses, the lenses catching the dim light from his lamp and obscuring his eyes as he straightened the last of his paperwork. His slender fingers tapped absently on his desk, impatience seeping into each movement.

It had been months since Kain last walked through these doors. Every day had felt like a painful repetition, one that was missing its most critical, chaotic element. Rizer’s patience had worn thin, and his smile—always too wide, too bright—never quite reached his eyes.

Kain’s absence was noticeable in the way a missing puzzle piece threw off the entire picture. Rizer found himself glancing toward the waiting area whenever the bell above the door chimed, expecting to see Kain sprawled across the seats or antagonizing his other clients just for the fun of it. But every time, it was just another regular person with a regular problem, and that grated on Rizer’s nerves. It was petty, even childish, how something so small could get under his skin. But it wasn’t just about Kain not being there—it was the boredom, the blandness of every day without him.

Rizer tugged at the collar of his deep brown blazer, straightening it with an absentminded flick of his wrist. the subtle pattern of plaid becoming more pronounced against the light pink tie that's been paired with the otherwise neutral suit. a meticulous ensemble designed to draw just the right amount of attention to himself. brushing off invisible specks of dust Rizer moved across his office with a graceful, rehearsed ease. He flicked off the lights, each switch echoing with a hollow click, his silhouette casting elongated shadows against the clinic’s sterile walls. He paused at his desk, his fingers trailing absently along the edge of the counter, when his door slammed open.

Rizer looked up, his smile freezing on his face as Kain walked in—or more accurately, stumbled in.

Kain’s broad frame filled the doorway, casting a long shadow that didn’t quite fit the cocky, defiant figure Rizer was used to. the once-white tank top now stained with dirt and blood, clinging to his chest in a way that emphasized the heaving rise and fall of his breath. His jeans were ripped at the knee, and his skin was littered with bruises in various stages of healing, some fresh and angry red, others fading to sickly yellows and purples. A makeshift bandage of duct tape and fishing wire held together a nasty gash on his shoulder, the wound already half-healed in the most haphazard way possible. It was clear that whatever Kain had been up to, it was brutal and far from safe.

Rizer’s eyes flicked over every inch of him, cataloging the damage with a clinical precision. The swollen cheek, the dried blood on his knuckles, the slight limp in his step—it all painted a picture of a man who’d been through hell and back and was barely holding himself together. For a moment, Rizer’s grin faltered, replaced by something colder, more calculating.

Despite Kains unraveling state he still carried himself with the same swagger, even if it was slightly subdued by the pain. He staggered forward past Rizer, his steps uneven, and collapsed onto Rizers desk chair, stretching out like he owned the place, taking up as much space as possible despite the obvious strain it put on his battered body.

Kains expression was unreadable, his eyes were heavy-lidded, glassy with fatigue and the faint beginnings of a scowl that never quite left his face. His hair was slightly mussed, the short strands sticking up in odd directions as if he’d run his hands through it too many times. Blood was smeared across his cheek, and a large, crude ‘X’ scar stretched across his face, the old staples embedded within it glinting faintly.

“Late night stroll, Kain?” Rizers smile was all sweetness. Kain felt blood rush to his ears. He hadn’t heard Rizer’s voice for weeks. He felt his wounds ache.

Rizer stepped closer, his shoes barely making a sound against the polished floor. “Let me guess—lost a fight with a dumpster?”

Kain scoffed, his jaw set tight as he forced himself to sit up a little straighter, stubbornly ignoring the pain that flared with the movement. “Better than losin’ a fight to your closet every morning.” His voice was rougher than usual, like gravel scraping over concrete. There was no mistaking the irritation in his tone, but it wasn’t directed at Rizer—not entirely, at least.

Rizer chuckled deep in his throat and Kain watched as his Adam’s apple bobbed up and down. He burned. He turned his head away to stare at the meticulously lined fountain pens.

A soft smile flittered across Rizer’s lips, his Cupid’s bow twisting delicately and sweetly, though it didn't reach his eyes. Rizer moved closer, his movements slow and deliberate, as he slid his hands into his pockets, his lean body casting a shadow on Kain’s as the warm lamp light made a vignette around Rizer. From here, he looked like an angel. His red bangs brushed against his brow as he tilted his head and parted his mouth. “And here I assumed you’d found a new dentist.”

“Been busy.” Kain shot back, lacking his usual intensity. His head lolled back against the chair, his body slumping further as he let out a ragged breath. “Didn’t come here to chat,” he muttered, his voice hoarse and barely audible. “Just… needed a place to sit.”

Rizer’s gaze lingered on the poorly stitched gash on Kains shoulder. He knew Kain well enough to guess what “busy” meant—old debts, grudges from prison, or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Kain was a magnet for trouble, and it was clear that trouble had found him in spades. But it wasn’t the injuries themselves that caught Rizer’s attention; it was the way Kain wore them, with that same brash indifference, as if daring anyone to pity him.

Kain bristled under Rizers gaze, feeling spikes of electricity race up his skin as his hair stood on its ends. He tried to convince himself it was just the pain, but he still avoided Rizer’s sweltering stare.

Rizer’s smile tightened, “Oh, I see. My clinic’s just a fancy waiting room now, is it? A pit stop on your nightly escapades?” his footsteps were soft on the polished floor the sound being absorbed by the transition to plush carpet, as Rizer stood in front of kain. Propping himself against his desk lightly.

Kains shoulders tensed as Rizer’s cold fingers ghosted over his busted knuckles, feeling the tension coil beneath his skin. His flinch was almost imperceptible, but it was enough to spark a flicker of satisfaction in Rizer’s chest.

Kain pulled his hand back, annoyance flashing in his eyes. “Don’t start.”

“Hm?” Rizer tilted his head, watching Kain with an unblinking intensity, his gaze was sharp, probing. “You stroll in here looking like you took a joyride through a meat grinder, and expect me not to comment?”

Kain glared up at him, his frustration simmering just beneath the surface. “I ain’t here for a lecture.”

“Oh I know. As prickly as you are, you’re still blood and bone like the rest of us mere mortals,” Rizer sardonically laughed, his finger tapping his knee. “Remember that when you're trapezing around dumpsters, for all our sanity.”

A clock ticked faintly. Kain could hear the distant honking of cars in rush hour.

“Well, then.”

“Well, then what?”

“You got a bandage, or somethin? Or should I just keep bleeding all over your shitty chair.” Kain waved his hand dismissively.

Rizer let out a short laugh. “Alright, let’s have a look at you then.” He pushed himself up with unnecessary flair.

Rizer slipped away into a room further inside the dentistry, the door closing behind him with a soft click. Kain’s eyes followed until the last sliver of Rizer’s figure vanished. As soon as Rizer was out of sight, Kain exhaled sharply, releasing the breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding.

He flexed and unflexed his hand trying to stop the tremors, He squeezed his eyes shut, attempting to drown out the adrenaline that buzzed in his veins, breathing shallowly through his nose as he fought to steady himself. He knew he’d pushed himself too far this time.

When he opened his eyes, Kain stared at his open palm, its lines edged with dirt and blood, the callouses stark, white, brown and red.

When Rizer came back, Kain didn’t turn to look. Despite Rizer’s footsteps barely resounding through the small room, Kain could feel him when he came close. With his eyes cast down, his nape tingled as Rizer’s leather shoes came into view in front of him, disturbing the oriental pattern of the rug that he was vacantly tracing with his eyes. Rizer set down a pristine white box on his desk, and Kain wondered if he’d ever used his surgical tools for anything other than playing around with dentures or whatever he did for his job.

Rizer pulled up a chair, sitting across from Kain as he opened the kit with a swift practiced motion, like it was some grand performance.

Rizer looked up, his expression flickering with something between irritation and amusement as he took in the makeshift bandages—duct tape, fishing wire, and patches of gauze barely clinging to the mess of Kain’s injuries.

“I must say, your creative flair for using thick wire and your own skin as a knitting medium has me at a loss for words,” Rizer’s hand brushed against Kain’s handiwork of half fishing wire, half angry taut flesh on his shoulder. all held together by duct tape. “As an industry expert I am both horrified and impressed.”

“Expert in what?”

“In stitching together rained on puppies that need to take care of themselves more.”

Kain said nothing, his eyes fixed on Rizer’s fingers as they hovered over the poorly wrapped tape, teasing it loose with a kind of clinical curiosity. Rizer peeled back the edge, his gaze lingering on the dried blood and mottled bruises beneath, lips curling into a half-smile as if savoring the mess laid bare. “How long have you been parading around like this?”

Kain furrowed his brows, the weight of the last few hellish days pulling his expression into something dark and brooding. His eyes drifted past Rizer, settling on the floral-patterned sofa behind him glaring at it as if it had somehow offended him, before he finally spoke. “Wasn’t keeping count.” His voice was gruff, edged with the kind of pride and stubborn defiance that kept him standing when most would have crumbled.

"You could have shown up earlier," Rizer said, pulling back the tape on his shoulder further, observing how the abused flesh sticks and peels away from the adhesive, taking in every detail of Kains biceps tensing and contorting, his body revealing everything Kains stoic expression was trying to mask. "I would’ve loved to place all your battered pieces back together. I may be a dentist, but you’d be quite surprised what a little self-taught surgical know-how can do.”

Kain rolled his eyes as if Rizer’s words were some bad joke he’d heard one too many times. “Didn’t know you were moonlighting as a butcher now,” he shot back, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Guess the tooth-pulling business just wasn’t enough for a thrill, huh?”

“You can never have too many hobbies” Rizer mused, peeling back the duct tape and fishing line from Kains shoulder with practiced ease. Kain clenched his teeth, refusing to let out so much as a wince, even when the sting shot up his arm.

Rizer’s expression remained carefully neutral, but there was a flicker of something else—something that Kain couldn’t care to place. The unspoken tension hung between them, thick and unyielding, and for the first time in months, Kain felt something other than pain—something that kept him tethered to this gaudy dental clinic, to the maddening, insufferable man who always seemed to be waiting for him.

Rizer's fingers moved carefully, his touch more invasive than caring, it wasn't just the visible wounds that caught his attention-there was something off about the way Kain was holding himself, a tightness in his breathing that he was clearly trying to mask, fingers digging into his ribs as if trying to hold himself together by sheer force of will. Rizer’s eyes followed the movement, his attention drawn to the awkward, pained way Kain’s chest hitched with each breath. And then he saw it—a faint, irregular flutter in the fabric of Kain’s shirt, a suspicious dip that hinted at something far worse beneath.

”Excuse me,” Rizer hummed, reaching out to lift the hem of Kain's tank top, his fingertips brushing the edge of the worn fabric. The touch was brief, barely more than a whisper of contact, but it was enough to make Kain’s muscles tense beneath his skin. Before Rizer could lift the fabric further, Kain’s hand shot out, gripping Rizer’s wrist in a bruising hold. The sudden resistance was a jolt to Rizer's system, an act of rejection that lit a fire under his already simmering frustration. The pressure was immediate, a warning—one that made Rizer’s blood boil.

Kain’s eyes were sharp, defiant, but there was something else beneath the anger—a flash of vulnerability that he tried desperately to hide. the action was pure reflex, sharp and desperate, In that instant, Kain’s defiance was more than pride—it was survival, a refusal to let Rizer see how deep his wounds ran. how careless he had been.

For a moment, Rizer didn’t move. He just stared at Kain’s hand, his fingers tightening around his wrist in a grip that was both painful and strangely intimate. Rizer’s smile didn’t falter, but his irritation simmered just beneath the surface, bubbling up in the slight twitch of his lips. He could feel the heat of Kain's rejection like a brand against his skin making his fingers curl slightly, Rizer didn't know whether he wanted to strangle him or pull him closer.

“now you're acting coy, Kain? We’re past the point of modesty, don’t you think.” Rizer's smile remained plastered on his face, always putting emphasis on Kains name, his voice dripping with mock sweetness.

Kain's grip tightened, his fingers digging into Rizer's wrist before his lips parted, ready to bark out a retort but Without warning, Rizer's hand reached up, wrapping around Kain's throat with a firm but measured pressure. his fingers curling intimately around the curve of his neck. He squeezed, not enough to choke but enough to force Kain’s head back against the chair.

Kain’s eyes flittered from Rizer’s hand to his eyes and back, as he felt his head tilt upwards in Rizer’s leather chair. The chair he sat in to make his appointments. The chair he sat in when taking calls. Rizer leaned up, eyes becoming more level with Kain’s as his back arches. Everything was Rizer, his hair, his smell, his lips parting, his slow inhales and exhales. Kain couldn’t take it, but he couldn’t avert himself from him. There was nothing in this world except him.

“You’re a mess,” Rizer murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. Kain’s eyes stared at Rizer’s lips. He didn’t hear the words.

The chair hit the wall with a dull thud, kains broad shoulders absorbing the impact as Rizer pressed closer. Rizers smile was thin, The lines of his face were tense, his usual mask of charisma and charm twisted by a desperate need for control. “You keep pushing me away,” Rizer murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, but it was laced with an edge that sent a shiver down Kain’s spine. He leaned in closer, his tone softening, “And for what? To pretend you’re still in control? That you don’t need anyone?”

“You think I haven’t noticed? The way you keep coming back here, bleeding all over my clinic like some stray dog?”

Kain’s breath hitched as Rizer’s fingers glided across his juglar, his body coiled like a spring ready to snap, He could easily break Rizer's hold, could overpower him in a heartbeat if he wanted to, but he didn’t push Rizer away. Not yet. Instead, he stared down at him, eyes blazing, deep down he didn't care if Rizer went further, if he pressed harder.

For a split second, Rizer felt the urge to keep squeezing, to tighten his grip until Kain couldn’t breathe, couldn’t speak, couldn’t push him away ever again. His thumb pressed against Kain’s pulse, feeling the frantic thud beneath the skin, and it was maddening—how easily He could make Kain bend, make him beg, and Kain would let him. But even as the thought flickered in his mind, Rizer’s grip loosened, the violence simmering down into something more restrained.

Rizer didn't need to say it out loud, but the implication was clear: no matter how hard Kain fought, Rizer would always find a way to pull him back, to dig his claws in deeper. And there was a comfort in knowing he didn't have to hide anything- not from Rizer, not ever. All Kain could do was stare at the man in front of him, His Hand slipping from Rizers wrist and dropping to his thigh.

The ambient light seemed to dull, the colors in the room fading to a muted background as Kain’s world narrowed to the pressure encircling his throat. Rizer’s grip slowly relaxed, the tension in his fingers And Kains jaw easing as he pulled back, Rizers expression flickering with a rare hint of restraint. He didn’t want to push too far—not yet.

“may I?” Rizer murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, Kains eyes drifted from Rizers to his light pink tie, before absentmindedly rubbing the callous on his thumb with his forefinger “do whatever you want.” Kain grunted. Rizers fingers glided lower, slipping beneath the torn hem of Kain’s tank top, lifting the fabric slowly, his touch light and lingering.

Beneath the skin was defined muscle, a thin waist from an undoubtedly unsatisfactory diet, but strong and defined nonetheless. Kain stiffened as he felt Rizer’s eyes survey his abdomen. An ugly wound, The gash was violent, a jagged tear that ran across Kain’s stomach, hastily closed with nothing more than a few crude staples-barely enough to hold the skin together. The skin was inflamed, red and swollen, with dark, congealed blood seeping from the edges. It looked barely stitched, as if Kain had been in too much of a hurry to care whether it was done properly. It was the kind of wound that should have left him bedridden—or dead.

Kain’s collarbone dipped delicately above his chest that heaved slowly as he tried to control his breathing. His blood thrummed in his ears and he felt his breath pick up when Rizer.

"Kain," Rizer drawled, his voice taking on a saccharine lilt that made Kain’s head spin, the attention feeling like a spotlight burning into his skin. Each beat a reminder of how close he was to unraveling, but he kept his face tight, eyes fixed on anything but Rizer. He could feel every brush of Rizer’s fingers as they traced the jagged wound on his abdomen, the touch cold and electric, sending a jolt of pain mixed with something he didn’t want to name.

“You’ve really outdone yourself this time. What were you thinking, coming here like this? Were you trying to die, or did you just want me to see?” Rizer leaned in, his breath skimming Kain’s cheek, close enough that Kain could almost feel the words sink beneath his skin. “Or do you just enjoy the pain?”

Kain’s jaw clenched, his teeth grinding as he fought the impulse to flinch, to back away from the intensity of Rizer’s gaze. The room felt too small, the walls closing in, every nerve in his body strung tight and screaming for release. The words clawed their way out, rough and bitter. “This ain’t a fucking show. Just stitch me up, and I’ll leave.”

Rizer hiked his tank top higher. He hooked his thumb through the fabric and rested it at the base of Kain’s Adam apple to keep it in place. Kain swallowed.

“Oh of course, I’ll stitch you up, and you can go back to your brawling, then you can return to spill your insides all over me again. Is that what you want? Are you going to keep barking at any helping hand like a dog without an owner?” Rizer’s voice rose in its inflection gradually, first coming across as its usual thinly veiled mockery, but there wasn’t humour in it—something about it felt tense, desperate.

Kain’s glare faltered, Rizer’s eyes gleamed, savoring the sight of Kain so exposed. It was proof that no matter how strong Kain pretended to be, he could still bleed, still break, still need someone to put him back together.

“You should’ve gone to a hospital,” Rizer murmured, his voice low. He pulled back just enough to look Kain in the eyes, his smile twisted with something uncomfortably close to genuine concern, though it was tainted. “But I suppose that’s too simple for you. No, you’d rather bleed out here, wouldn’t you? Bleed out in front of me. It’s almost poetic.”

Kain swallowed, his throat dry as sandpaper. He tried to muster the strength to snarl back, but all that came out was a ragged, breathless laugh. “Yeah, real poetic,” he rasped, his voice dripping with sarcasm despite the tremor that crept into it.

Rizer just smiled tilting his head, as red strands obscured his eyes His fingers hovered just over the torn staple, his touch more intimate than any caress. It was invasive, violating in the way Rizer always was, slipping past every barrier Kain tried to put up.

and then, with a deliberate slowness, he hooked his fingers under the first staple, feeling the metal bite into his skin. He tugged, the movement sharp and unkind,The staple, already half-embedded in swollen, inflamed flesh, caught against Rizer's touch and tore free with a sickening pop, blood welling up and spilling over Rizer's fingers.

Kain's breath hitched, but he didn't flinch, his body rigid as he endured the sharp, stinging pain. Rizer watched him closely,

“Did that hurt?" Rizer asked softly, his voice a low, mocking purr, though his eyes gleamed with genuine curiosity. before he pressed his palm against the angry, swelling edges of the wound. The skin was hot under his touch, feverish, and Kain held his breath, his body instinctively jerking back. “no it fucking tickled.”

"One down," Rizer said, his voice infuriatingly cheerful as He flicked the bloodied staple to the floor, Kain grimaced, deciding he won’t make another sound for the satisfaction of this fucking piece of—

Rizers hand dipped into the wound, his fingers burying themselves deep into the torn flesh as he began to pull out the staples one by one. Kain's body jerked, his muscles spasming in response to the sudden intrusion, but he bit down hard on the inside of his cheek, Rizer's movements were slow, deliberate, each tug of a staple accompanied by a cruel twist of his fingers, The wound gaped wider with each staple removed, and Rizer's hand delved deeper, his fingertips brushing against torn muscle and raw, bleeding tissue. Kain's teeth gritted together, the pain a constant, burning reminder of his own recklessness.

“Really, I might as well just stitch together a cadaver.” Rizer sighed, as if he was the one in pain.

A few staples later, Kain was half passed out and sprawled haphazardly on Rizer’s chair, breathing hard and sweat running down his chin and down to the hollow of his throat. Rizer watched Kain as he attempted to sit up.

Rizer sighed again, watching Kain struggle with his head hung low. He peered through his bangs above spectacles. “You don’t know, do you?”

“...What?”

Suddenly, Kain felt a sharp, ice hot fire travel from his navel to his throat. Kain could barely suppress a groan. He made a strangled noise in his throat.

“This,” Rizer’s finger swirled in the open wound indicatively, “would have killed you if it was 3 centimeters to the left.” His finger plunged deeper as Rizer put his lips to Kain’s ear, his free fingers once again finding Kains throat, tilting his head back “A wound of this depth,” Rizer inched further in, “would cause hepatoma.”

“Do you know what would happen next?” Rizer murmured in Kain’s ear, lips brushing against skin with every word.

Rizer added a finger. “Do you?”

"Fuck!" Kain's entire body tensed, a strangled sound escaping his throat as Rizer's fingers twisted and dug, violating the tender tissue. the sound echoing in the small, sterile space. The pressure behind Kain’s eyes built, hot and relentless, his heart pounding erratically in his ears. He could feel Rizer’s fingertips grazing organs he wasn’t ready to lose, violating spaces no one was meant to touch. His body jerked involuntarily, and before he could stop himself, his hand shot out, gripping Rizer's shoulder with a desperate, crushing force. His fingers dug in, squeezing hard enough to hurt, and for a split second, Kain was utterly exposed-his eyes screwed shut, his face twisted in a mix of agony and anger, breaths coming in ragged gasps. “I don’t fucking—know!”

Rizer held Kain’s gaze, his eyes deep and disarming. His smile was soft and his eyes glazed over as he arched his fingers against the warmth of Kains wound just enough to elicit another sharp, guttural groan from Kain. his head falling back, He squeezed his eyes shut, the sting of unshed tears blurring his vision as Rizer’s fingers probed deeper, his grip on Rizers shoulder tightened to the point of desperation. Kains head pounded, the pressure building behind his temples as he focused on the dull throb of his heartbeat, on the icy burn of Rizer's hands invading his body, on anything but the searing humiliation of it all.

“You’d die.”

The sound that tore from his throat was unrecognizable, a guttural mix of fury and something bordering on panic—something Kain hadn’t felt in a long time. He could feel Rizer’s breath against his ear, taunting, his words drifting like poison into Kain’s mind.

There was a ringing in Kain’s ears. he felt his reactive tear ducts fill his eyes with moisture. He squinted through the haze as Rizer dragged his fingers along the wound, feeling the raw, open flesh give beneath his touch, slick and warm with fresh blood, Kains muscles twitched around Rizer like they were sucking him in, urging him to go further, eager to uncover everything Kain kept buried beneath skin and bone. If Rizer could, he'd crawl inside Kain completely.

Rizer's mind wandered as his fingers moved slowly, brushing against Kain's trembling muscles, He imagined what it would be like to go further to crawl inside Kain completely, to be surrounded by the heat and pressure of his insides. wrapping his fingers around Kain's heart, feeling the powerful, rhythmic thump beneath his grip, each beat a fragile promise of life that only he controlled. Rizer would take over entirely, squeezing just enough to force Kain's blood through his veins, keeping him alive by sheer will and touch.

Rizer's breath hitched at the thought, a thrill coursing through him at the idea of being the sole force that kept Kain's heart beating, the only thing standing between Kain and life. He wanted to be the one to pump Kain's blood, to dictate every beat, every breath-Rizer's hands would be Kain's lifeline, his only means of survival. He craved that power, that intimacy, to make himself the singular point of dependence Kain could never escape. The thought of having Kain's entire existence in his grasp made Rizers fingers jolt with barely restrained hunger, a craving to possess him from the inside out, to be the one Kain needed just to keep living.

Rizer hovered close, an itching heat flaring in his chest, his breaths growing shallow as his excitement twisted into something raw and feverish, nearly vibrating out of him. His movements were slow, twitchy, every bit of restraint slipping. He leaned in, his breath icy against Kain's cheek, inhaling the scent of sweat and blood that clung to Kain so intensely. Kains breath caught as Rizer’s lips skimmed his jaw. It felt like worship, but beneath it was a searing intent that made Kain’s skin prickle, Rizers breath trembled with a manic edge as he traced his lips across Kains trembling jaw.

Every press and drag of Rizers lips a desperate act of possession; the coldness of his breath and the faint smell of mint was sobering, Kains breath stuttered, and his teeth parted. Rizers free hand moved with purpose, gliding up the curve of Kain’s neck. His fingers spread wide, sprawling over Kain’s nape as though claiming territory, each touch heavy and deliberate. Kain’s throat bobbed as he swallowed, his breath catching as Rizer’s thumb traced the sharp line of his jaw before sliding up, brushing against the two gold piercings in Kain’s right ear with a teasing pressure. He lingered there, thumb grazing the metal, his touch a mix of control and familiarity, as if the coolness of the piercings were something only Rizer had the right to feel.

Kain’s eyes fluttered shut, and for a brief, stolen second, he let himself feel it all—the chill of Rizer’s breath, the insistent pressure of his hands, the invasive intimacy. His fingers twitched, aching to respond, to lash out or to pull Rizer closer, but all he could do was sit there, breath ragged and pulse wild, as Rizer’s touch branded him in ways Kain didn’t know how to fight.

Kain's waist jerked, a sharp, involuntary movement, his attention being brought back to Rizers other more occupied hand, slick with blood, digging his nail ever so slightly into kains wound, Rizers own restraint slipping through his fingers like sand.

This seering agony was familiar, Kain spent a lifetime being undone by forces beyond his grasp, torn apart by an unforgiving world, but here, with Rizer, Kain chose this -chose the pain, the tearing, the pulling. it was a more gentle and loving violence. He knew exactly when and how he would come apart. It felt like an embrace, all-consuming, unconditional. He allowed Rizer to pry into parts of him that felt too jagged to be held. Rizer saw the unlovable in Kain, the scars and aggression and instead of recoiling, he reveled in it.

Rizer's lips trailed down, his breath cold and ragged as he moved from Kain's Jaw to his neck, pressing open- mouthed kisses against sweat-slick skin. His fingers relax slightly in kains stomach. The pain was dull and constant now instead of sharp and seering. A strained groan tore from Kain’s throat, his body twitching and skin flushed beneath deep brown. It was a sensation he’d never felt before, It was as if Rizer was digging past flesh, past bone, clawing his way into Kain’s very soul, replacing every sensation with himself. his muscles clenching beneath Rizers hands, fighting back but never truly pushing him away.

Kain let Rizer in—let him break and bend and dig. Rizer knew Kain saw him for what he was. And Kain didn’t care. He took it all, swallowed it whole, unbothered by the depravity. It was almost laughable how easily Kain saw through him, dismissing Rizer’s carefully constructed show as if it was just background noise. Kain was unbreakable, the one person who could take everything Rizer was and not shatter under the weight.

Rizer's mouth found Kain's collarbone, his lips brushing against the curve of his shoulder before sinking his teeth in with a sudden, feral bite.

Kain's body went rigid, a restrained sound escaping him, Rizers mouth twitched as if savoring a private joke. His fingers curled, the slick heat of blood coating his hand until Rizer felt it-a hard, jagged edge buried within the flesh. His eyes widened, the realization sending a jolt of excitement through him.

Rizer's movements became more invasive and insistent as he slipped two more fingers in, prodding the object, feeling the sharp bite of glass scraping against bone and tissue. Kain's body jerked at the intrusion, clenching his fists so hard his knuckles turned white threatening to rip the fabric of Rizers suit from his shoulders,

The fresh pain of Rizers teeth sinking into him grounded Kain back to Rizer, his bite lingered, the numbing coolness and the sting of mint from Rizers mouth on his skin mixed with the brutal, unyielding pain of the glass lodged in his wound.

Rizer pulled back, his breath heavy, his eyes gleaming with something unhinged before composing himself, licking the blood from his lips with a satisfied hum. "Now you've got something from me too." He pressed his fingers to the fresh bite mark, smearing the blood with a casualness that made Kain's eye twitch.

The room felt dimmer and smaller somehow, the earth seemed to have stopped spinning and seemed to have hurtled towards the sun and exploded in a split second at the same time. Rizer’s brows were in a slight frown, as if he were confused at what he was doing, like he was lost. His lips were parted and he panted noiselessly as he drank in Kain with his eyes. There was deep red smeared across Rizers mouth, across Kains torso and dripping down his shoulder. They were covered in it. and it glistened in the warm heat of Rizers office. Their breaths mingled, their forms casting a deep shadow in the office.

and finally Rizer withdrew his hand from the warm comfort of Kains flesh, slick with blood, Kain’s body tensed, muscles contracting sharply around the sudden emptiness, every nerve still raw and buzzing from the violation. Kain’s chest heaved as he fought to catch his breath, every inhale rattling painfully in his throat as Rizer’s fingers slipped free, extracting the piece of glass. It was jagged and blood-slick, glinting ominously in the dim light. He held it up between his fingers, admiring it like a prize. a reminder of some brutal encounter that Kain had tried to patch over with staples like a third grade art project.

“Glass,” Rizer murmured, his voice low and tinged with awe. “You’ve been walking around with this inside you…” Amusement danced in his tone, unable to hide his fascination.

“Want to keep it?” Kain rasped, still recovering from what happened only moments ago, still somehow managing to be a smartass despite it all.

Rizers lips curled into a sly smile teetering on the edge of a laugh. He held the bloody shard up like it was some kind of trophy, tilting his head as if inspecting a fine work of art.

“Oh, absolutely,” Rizer hummed, feigning deep thought. “I’ve been looking for a new paperweight. Really ties the office together, don’t you think?” He gave Kain a mischievous look. “But honestly, I’m more of a ‘collect the whole set’ kind of man. Do you have anything else in there? Keys, coins, maybe a lucky rabbit’s foot?”

Kain’s eyes were glassy, struggling to focus as his vision swam in and out. His head lolled back against the waiting room chair, movements sluggish and unsteady. He winced, clutching his side, blood seeping between his fingers, the pain pulling him back just enough to force words past his cracked lips. “Yeah… sure… I’m a goddamn piñata,” he rasped, voice weak and slurred, dripping with half-hearted sarcasm.

Rizer’s smile flickered, eyes narrowing with a mix of amusement and something sharper setting the bloodied glass shard aside, his eyes never leaving Kain’s. as he watched his grip on consciousness slip, his head rolling forward, his eyelids heavy, fluttering dangerously close to shutting. Without warning, Rizer reached out, his bloodied fingers gripping Kain’s face, firm and insistent. He tilted Kain’s head back up, forcing their eyes to meet. “Stay with me, Kain” Rizer chided, his voice dripping with playful menace, as if Kain’s slipping consciousness was nothing more than an inconvenience.

”I can't have you wandering off now.” Rizer murmured, his tone light, teasing, He tapped Kain’s cheek, a mockingly gentle slap that stung just enough to keep Kain tethered to the moment. his mouth twitched, caught somewhere between a snarl and a grimace, but he couldn’t summon the energy to respond, as Rizers thumb brushed roughly across Kain’s cheek, smearing blood in a deliberate stroke.

Rizer reached past Kain towards the desk beside him, where his surgical tools lay, Kain stared at Rizer’s shoulders and swallowed.

There were a few seconds of agony as Rizer readied his tools wordlessly. When he looked up and smiled at Kain, Kain felt the knot at the base of his stomach unravel and he inadvertently relaxed his frown. It was almost a pure smile, devoid of sin and held a childlike innocence. He couldn’t bare this side of Rizer.

Kain met Rizer’s gaze, his eyes hard and unwavering despite the pull of unconsciousness tugging at his senses. Rizers fingers once again found Kains jaw simultaneously as he reached for a bottle containing a clear liquid, his movements disturbingly calm and practiced. “Now, hold still,” Rizer said with a soothing smile.

There was no anesthesia, no warning as Rizer with a casual tilt of his wrist, poured disinfectant straight into the gash in Kain’s stomach. The burn was immediate and brutal, tearing through Kain’s daze and wrenching him back to the present.

Kain’s reaction was violent—his body convulsed like he’d been struck with a live wire, his back arching off the chair as a strangled, animalistic growl tore from his throat. His fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white, nails biting into his palms, leaving crescent-shaped indentations in his skin. A muscle in his jaw twitched, locked tight against the pain, his teeth grinding together but Rizer’s grip kept him pinned, fingers pressing into Kain’s jaw with a steady, unmoving force.

Rizer moved quickly, seizing the needle and thread with a calm that bordered on unsettling. He set to work stitching Kain’s torn flesh back together, his abdomen twitched involuntarily with every sharp prick of the needle, muscles rippling under Rizer’s touch like a cornered animal trying to pull away. Rizer paused only to tighten the stitches, watching with a focused intensity as the wound pulled closed under his hands. Kain could feel the thread pulling his skin back together, a crude, makeshift fix that felt more like a binding than a healing—Kain’s vision blurred.

The rest of the stitching was done silently, aside from Rizer narrating his process through along the lines of, “and a cheeky loop here...you see, you need to join the noose with the convicted felon twice, and thus, you’ve got a secure stitch—Kain, are you listening? You need to learn how to do this since I can’t stop you from self-administering elaborate skin crochets and infections. Or you can just come to me, actually just come to me every time, don’t bother touching anything.”

By the end of it, Kain was just about to strangle Rizer, but he was grateful for his rambling. It was better than silence after what they’d done.

“Alright, all finished! And look, I tied a little bow at the end to make it all pretty,” Rizer clasped his hands together, looking pleased with himself.

“Fuck...the bow,” Kain’s voice came out breathless as he pushed himself up in the chair, Every movement felt heavy, his muscles dragging like he was wading through quicksand, leaning forward with his arms draped over his knees. The fresh stitches strained, blood oozing between the threads, but he didn’t seem to care.

Rizer wrapped white gauze around Kain’s abdomen. It’s color was stark against Kain’s deep russet skin. Kain obediently held his arms up with no complaints or witty quips. Rizer felt his mouth stretch as he clipped the gauze in place.

“You done playing doctor?” Kain rasped, his tone rough, each word forced through the fog of pain and adrenaline.

Rizer's grin never faltered. "For now," he said breezily, as he stood up in one swift motion, slowly wiping the blood from his hands, his movement methodical and unhurried. Stepping closer to the still seated man before discarding the dirtied cloth into the bin behind him. looming over Kain.

Kain’s body wavered, The blood loss was hitting him harder than he’d expected—He could feel his vision tunneling, black spots dancing at the edges,

“You look like you’re about to pass out,” Rizer mused, his tone overly casual

He reached down, sandwiching kains cheeks between his fingers forcing his head upwards, Kain’s normally warm complexion had turned a sickly shade, his eyes glazed, unfocused, barely clinging to the present.

Kain’s eyes flickered, fighting to focus on Rizer, but every blink felt like a herculean effort. “I'm…absoulety fucking peachy…” he managed, voice slurred and weak, but the fire of defiance was still there. The world outside was brutal and relentless, but when it came to Rizer, Kain’s guard felt oddly willing to falter.

Rizer leaned down slightly, maneuvering kains face to the side. “You’re Always trying so hard to keep your head above water.” He spoke calmly “you can let go, i'll keep you up.”

Kain’s eyes snapped open, bleary and dark, his expression caught between anger and something far more vulnerable. swatting Rizer’s hand away with a weak shove, Kain braced himself, forcing his body to respond, muscles tense as he lurched forward to stand, but the room tilted violently. The ground rushed up, his vision narrowing as his legs gave out.

Rizer watched as Kain’s knees buckled, catching him before he could hit the floor. It was an uncharacteristically gentle gesture, but there was nothing kind in the way Rizer looked at him. He pulled Kain against him, feeling the heavy weight of his body sag into his own.

Kain’s breath hitched at the contact, the sharp chill of Rizer’s touch against his fevered skin “Get...off...” he muttered, the words were faint, more of a reflex than a command. His head lolled against Rizer’s shoulder, the fight draining from him as his eyelids fluttered. his hands clawed at Rizers arm, balling the fabric of his sleeve into a weak fist. His head finally slumping forward, resting in the crook of Rizer’s neck, where the world dulled, noises fading into a muted buzz. Each breath was labored, his muscles going slack as his vision smeared into darkness, the edges bleeding into shadows until the only anchor left was the hypnotic rise and fall of Rizer’s chest.

The beat of Rizer’s heart thrummed against Kain’s cheek—a steady, controlled rhythm that drowned out the pounding in his own ears. Rizers scent- a blend of something expensive, metallic and clean, a scent that cut through the lingering tang of iron and sweat. It was disorienting. Rizer’s hands were steady, his fingers curling into Kain’s back like they belonged there, claiming space without a word. His other hand secured Kain’s waist, fingertips pressing just enough to crease the fabric, Each touch was deliberate, pressing in with a quiet insistence.

Kain’s muscles slackened, and for a fleeting moment, his body betrayed him, leaning into the unnatural stillness of Rizer’s hold. The tension he carried like armor cracked, crumbling under the relentless weight of exhaustion. a faint groan escaping him as he fought to stay conscious, but the coolness of Rizer’s body and the intoxicating mix of pain and comfort was lulling him into a dangerous calm.

Kain’s eyes fluttered, a final, hazy effort to hold on, but his grip was gone, and he slumped fully against Rizer, consciousness fading. surrendering, if only for a moment, to the bitter comfort of being held together by someone else. like raw flesh bound by fraying string, fragile and blood- slick. Every breath threatened to pull him apart, his insides ready to spill at the slightest shift, the seams barely holding.

Rizer's embrace was the only thing keeping him from tearing open, a gruesome bind of skin and sinew that could unravel and spill out only if Rizer Willed it.

Rizer’s hold tightened, not letting an inch of distance form between them. He watched, feeling the faint but stubborn beat of Kain’s heart against his chest, Kain’s strength was still there, even in his weakness, and it only made Rizer’s hold tighten. As Kain’s resistance faded and his body went slack, Rizer shifted him effortlessly, slinging the much heavier man over his shoulder, feeling the weight settle comfortably against him savoring the rare stillness of Kain in his arms as he carried him up the staircase to his home above the clinic, his simmering thoughts twisted inside him, dark and thrilling—a reflection of affection that only Rizer would dare call love.

Rizer laid Kain gently on the plush, oversized sofa in his penthouse, a lavish room filled with eccentric trinkets and oddities that mirrored Rizer’s own warped sense of style. The space was a careful blend of opulence and chaos, a playground far removed from the sterile order of his clinic below. Large windows offered a panoramic view of the city, though heavy curtains were always drawn to block the light that his eyes couldn’t handle.

Kain’s limp body sank into the cushions, his tanned skin stark against the rich fabrics. Rizer stood over him, studying every detail—the rise and fall of Kain’s chest, the way his shirt clung to his muscular frame, and the grimace that lingered even in unconsciousness.

Kain’s stubbornness amused Rizer endlessly, how he’d rather let himself fall apart than show a moment of weakness. It was that tenacity, that fierce defiance against the world, that made Rizer’s chest tighten with something almost resembling affection. But it wasn’t just affection—it was possession, a desire to keep Kain close and helpless under his watch.

Kain stirred, his brows furrowing as he fought against the pull of unconsciousness. He was trying to wake up, to force himself back to reality, even as his body begged for rest. Rizer knelt beside him, running a cold hand down the side of Kain’s face, feeling the faint heat of his skin. Kain’s eyes opened a sliver, glassy and unfocused, his gaze locking onto Rizer’s with a mix of anger and disorientation.

“Still with me?” Rizer cooed, Kain’s muscles tensed instinctively, his voice was slurred and strained. “What...the hell are you doing?” Each word was labored. There was no deep introspection, no hidden turmoil—just anger, frustration, and the simple instinct to fight back.

Rizer chuckled softly, his fingers playing at the edges of Kain’s wounds as if testing the limits of his patience. “just wondering which organs to harvest first” He leaned in closer, his breath cold against Kain’s ear. “i think i'll go for the heart.”

“You’re a piece of shit,” Kain mumbled, every syllable dripping with annoyance, barely above a whisper as he slipped away. Rizer watched him for a moment, his own mind buzzing with curiosity. Kain was rarely still, rarely quiet, always brimming with an aggressive energy. But now, laid out and vulnerable, Kain was a different kind of fascinating—like an animal caught in a trap, still dangerous, still defiant, but subdued by the weight of his own fatigue.

Rizer settled beside kains head, slipping off his brown blazer, folding it neatly across his lap, content to watch over him as Kain drifted in and out of consciousness. Moonlight streamed through translucent curtains, and a faint breeze fluttered in the room. The moon cast a bluish glow on Kain’s face as he slept.

Rizer was enveloped deep in shadow. He did not move, and it looked as if he scarcely breathed. He watched the way Kain’s collarbones moved as he inhaled, he watched the way Kain’s fingers faintly twitched, the way his hip angled towards the right, the way his brow tensed, the way his lips parted.

Kain's skin was a deep, rich brown, making every scar, bruise, and line on his body more pronounced. His skin held a warmth and intensity that seemed to absorb the light. Rizer’s eyes hovered over Kain’s chest where his tank top rode up exposing his torso, Scars crisscrossed blossoming around his ribs and up his side, knife wounds, old burns, jagged lines that could only come from barbed wire or broken glass. all hastily stitched and healed the skin puckered and pulled tight. It was a nasty, ugly sight, and it told Rizer all he needed to know about how Kain treated his own injuries: with recklessness and utter disregard.

But it was the scar on Kain’s face that drew Rizer’s eyes back, over and over again. The large, harsh X that cut across the bridge of Kain’s nose, each line deep and defined, the metal staples embedded into his skin like twisted jewelry. It was an ugly, brutal mark, one that told of a time long past, when Kain was barely more than a kid thrown to the wolves. Rizer had dug up the files, pulled every string he could to piece together Kain’s life from the scraps left in official records—how he went to prison at twelve, how he came out harder, angrier, the scar on his face a permanent reminder of whatever horror had put it there. But the records never told the whole story, and Kain never volunteered it.

Kain’s breathing hitched slightly, his chest rising and falling unevenly. Rizer could see the strain beneath the surface, the way Kain’s ribs pressed against his skin with each breath. Despite his unconscious state, Kain was still fighting, his body tensed as if expecting a blow that never came.

Rizer knew that in this state, Kain was at his mercy. He could do anything—keep him here, stitch him back together, or let him bleed. Rizers gaze was soft, almost reverent, as if he were watching a sleeping god instead of a beaten man.

[usafphantom2]

Stray flashlight sucked by F-35 engine caused $4 million in damage

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 01/19/2024 - 20:18in Incidents, Military

The F-35's ALIS system should soon be replaced by a new cloud-based platform.

A portable flashlight left inside the engine inlet of a USAF F-35 fighter was sucked into the engine during a maintenance operation at Luke Air Base, Arizona, in March 2023, causing almost $4 million in damage, according to a new accident investigation report.

The investigation, released on January 18, blamed the maintainer for not following the joint and U.S. Air Force guidelines as the main cause of the accident, which damaged the $14 million engine enough so that it could not be repaired locally.

However, the researchers also cited problems with the Autonomous Logistics Information System (ALIS) of the F-35 as a factor that contributed substantially. ALIS is intended to integrate operations, maintenance, forecasts, supply chain, customer support services, training and technical data, but the system has struggled with the lack of real-time connectivity, clumsy interfaces and much more.

As a result, the report states, “the substantial number of checklists and the difficulty in accessing the corrections cause complacency when users consult the necessary maintenance procedures”.

The accident in question occurred on March 15, when a three-person maintenance team was completing a Time Compliance Technical Directive on the F-35 to “install a measurement buffer on the engine fuel line and perform a leak check on the new measurement buffer while the engine was running,” according to the report.

After the plug was installed, a maintainer conducted a tool inventory check, before another maintainer performed a "Before maintenance operations" inspection of the engine. For this, the maintainer used a flashlight to inspect the engine inlet and left it on the edge of the entrance.

The maintainer who performed the engine inspection then operated the engine for five minutes to check for fuel leaks. During this time, the cabin showed no indication of damage from foreign objects to the engine, but when the engine was turned off, the team reported hearing abnormal noises. The maintainer who conducted the engine operation performed another inspection and identified the damage, while the maintainer who completed the first check of the tool inventory performed another and noticed the lack of a flashlight.

Finally, the engine suffered damage to the second stage rotor, the third stage rotor, the fifth stage rotor, the sixth stage rotor, the fuel nozzle, the bypass duct, the high pressure compressor (HPC), the high pressure turbine (HPT) and the variable fan input vane, valued at US$ 3,933,106.

Investigators found that the maintainer who conducted the inspection before the engine ran did not follow the Joint Technical Data warnings to remove all loose items before entering the aircraft entrance and to ensure that all engine inlets and exhausts were free of foreign and loose objects. The aviator also did not follow the instructions of the Air Force Department to "perform a visual inventory" of the toolkit after completing each task.

Finally, the report also concluded that the local practice of the 62ª Aircraft Maintenance Unit did not fully follow the instructions of the DAF, which require the individual who signed the toolkit to perform visual checks of the inventory. Instead, the practice of the unit was to make the individual who performed the operation of the engine conduct the inventory check. As a result, the two aviators involved in the accident thought that the flashlight had been found.

The ALIS factor in the accident marks another problem for the problematic F-35 support venture. The program has been affected by high costs and technical problems, and lawmakers have expressed frustration with ALIS before. The Joint Office of the Program is in the process of moving to a new "Integrated Operational Data Network", but the authorities have described it as a gradual effort - it has already been under construction for four years.

Source: Air & Space Forces Magazine

Tags: ALISMilitary AviationF-35 Lightning IIIncidentsUSAF - United States Air Force / U.S. Air Force

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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[formulatrash]

Hi Hazel,

I hope you are the right person to ask about this. So the way I understand it, in formula e, formula 2 and indycar all the teams have basically the same car, but it's still very clear that some teams are better than others. What are the teams actually changing to make that difference? I know that indy has two different engines but there has to be more to it. Can you change everything except for the chassis in fe? What is up with f2/f3? Idk this really confuses me from series to series.

no worries, it is confusing tbh.

so all the series you've mentioned have a spec chassis, which means every car looks the same. it has the same parts, from the same supplier. in Formula 2 and 3 it also has the same engine, again all from a single supplier (Mechachrome).

F2 and 3 are supplied a biofuel mix by Aramco (as of this year), IndyCar is fuelled by a biofuel made by Shell and all of Formula E use the same Williams Advanced Engineering battery. so it's not like F1 teams where every garage has a different fluids supplier.

Formula 2 and 3 teams can then change the setup of the car. that's sometimes very important for maintaining a good balance; it's why having an experienced team or a driver with good setup knowledge can make a huge difference and why some ultra-rich drivers like Amaury Cordeel pay for their teammate to share setup and essentially do the work for both cars. that's stuff like front and rear wing angle, ride stiffness, etc.

in Formula E teams can then make certain parts of the car themselves (brake ducts, for instance) and there is also a range of powertrain suppliers. initially, the Porsche powertrain looked unbeatable this season because it had the best race efficiency, whereas that seems to have swung the way of the Jaguar powered cars towards this late stage. the powertrain and the teams management of it make a very big difference to the efficiency of the car. you can also make small tweaks to the physical setup of the car but in FE they're not massively major just because there's no real aero to adjust (FE cars have less downforce than a GT car) only things like tiny increments of ride height and stuff - the overall efficiency is much more important.

in IndyCar there's a common chassis and then Honda and Chevrolet are the engine suppliers. sometimes it's clear that one or the other has the upper hand in terms of outright or sustained speed (so it's pretty noticeable in some years at the Indy 500) but teams can also make substantial setup changes that will vary how quick they are or the way the car behaves. this is a good article about the aerokit options available for IndyCar teams this year.

so, in terms of mechanical or technical things they can change, there is some stuff across all the series and in Formula E or IndyCar it's quite a wide range.

then there's what I'd broadly call operational factors. this is basically how good is the team at competing in their respective series.

that can come down to how well the cars are prepared for and looked after over a race weekend - generally, bigger budget teams will have more mechanics available to work on the cars and so be able to give them more attention. no garage is slacking but if you have more resources, better analytics tools, more option to change parts, etc then you will have an advantage. drivers also pay for parts across the year, so things like crash damage and wear-and-tear might mean that they're re-using parts if they're on a budget that they're replace, if they had infinite funds.

something that's affected all the series recently is the supply chain problems that Dallara (which makes the F2/3 and IndyCar chassis) and Spark (which is a subsidiary of Dallara that makes electric racecars, in FE and XE) has had. so there has been a lack of spare parts at various points across the board and FE currently has a severe lack of Gen3 parts - not at all helped by the carnage in Rome.

then there's how well the teams work with the drivers. how much data processing power they have, how good their performance engineers (the people who translate data to the drivers, basically) are and how well the team can execute strategies. in F2 or IndyCar that can include being slick at pit stops and knowing when to call them but there's also other factors.

take qualifying in F2 and 3, for instance. F2/3 cars use the F1 pit lane, with temporary pits set up in the bays outside the garages (basically where F1 teams do a pit stop) but they can't get inside the garages. which means that they are not allowed to refuel once the car has left the support series paddock, since refuelling is only allowed in garages.

for qualifying you want to run low fuel but also give yourself enough options to get a few runs in. if the track turns out to develop super quickly towards the end but you don't have the fuel to go out again, you'll lose out on position - this happened a weird amount with Prema last year, in F2, even though they're normally one of the best teams, operationally.

and there's lots of little things like that. understanding the tyres so you can get them up to temperature the best, knowing what calls to make if it rains, having the experience and confidence to do that even in series where, since they're literally for training, the drivers don't.

in IndyCar the strategy is super complicated because there's tyres and also fuel and obviously you want to get over the line having spent the least amount of time in the pits but that's going to take being clever and as in all sports a little bit lucky. then there's also the role of the spotter, which is basically to be the opposite of the Ferrari pit wall by accurately and promptly telling the driver about everything happening around them on track. it's not an engineering role, more purely about that sporting awareness and communication - F1 could prob learn.

in FE things are slightly different because FE is slightly different (no different tyre compounds, no pit stops, etc) but basically the teams that can correlated simulator data to put together the best on-track package will be in the lead. and if the mechanics can stay up all night fixing a car from the ground up and still be on it enough to fully prepare both cars the next day then hell, they're the best in the business.

so lots of factors affect how the car performs. generally the biggest constraint for teams is budget because money can fix a lot of the other problems but experience is the next hurdle. Sacha Fenestraz was talking quite a lot about how his engineering team in Nissan is all quite new to Formula E and how much they've had to learn together during the rookie practice on Friday.

[clonerightsagenda]

Ok last 'the gang is working at Goddard now' post from discord before I call it a night, assuming tumblr will let me post this one

Kat only loosely related, but although the Hephaestus doesn't have a CAPCOM (too far away) I wonder if closer low Earth orbit Goddard installations have one and if they, like NASA CAPCOMs, are all former astronauts. Probably not, I would think, since if you've got 1 person filtering all communication you'd probably want it to be one of Cutter's more… informed people. now imagining Jordan doing a CAPCOM stint since she's comms Jordan: What, you say the hull isn't damaged but you were hit by something. Was it round? Perhaps…. melon-shaped? Klein who's up doing a satellite launch from a station or whatever: I'll kill you Gill Klein’s just never gonna live that down huh Kat unfortunately he literally didn't Gill Rip Kate : ) but also :’ ( Also remind me what CAPCOM means because I’m like “the video game company?” Gill Concept: the Hephaestus crew doing a shift or two on CAPCOM to unwind after a long day of dismantling Goddard Futuristics from the inside out Kat capsule communicator basically they're the single line of communication between astronauts and the ground, to streamline stuff and they're usually astronauts because they know what the crew is doing more personally "In the context of potential crewed missions to Mars, NASA Ames Research Center has conducted field trials of advanced computer-support for astronaut and remote science teams, to test the possibilities for automating CAPCOM." hm. Maybe Goddard has AI capcoms Gill The Sensus series’ predecessor line, perhaps Kat Some poor asshole on a low orbit station: We've got an ammonia leak Automated CAPCOM: Please choose from the following options. Press 1 for a personnel issue. Press 2 for a maintenance issue Astronaut: We're dying Kate Pfff Kat someone: we've got some crew hostility in one of the low orbit stations Minkowski: Put Eiffel on CAPCOM for a few days. Either they'll calm down or they'll unite in being annoyed by him instead. Win win Kate Their secret weapon Gill Minkowski likes doing CAPCOM to unwind but Lovelace finds it stressful bc she’s way worse about being a backseat driver Kat Minkowski: Finally normal simple problems to solve. It is usually a pretty simple, boring job. Until something goes wrong Gill meanwhile, Lovelace: What do you MEAN you've never had to duct-tape a water reclamation system back together?? Kat Haha yeah. Former astronaut capcoms have creative solutions LEO crew who can get new supplies shipped up basically whenever: We could just… trash this broken part and order a replacement Lovelace: Why when you can mcgyver this solution with only moderate risk to life and limb Gill the Hephaestus Mission and the crew themselves gain such a reputation that when the rumors start circulating that Minkowski got her current job by killing Marcus Cutter ("and did you ever meet Marcus Cutter?") half the company is lowkey terrified of her Kate “Ohhh look at YOU with your cushy life, you can just order a NEW part. Back in MY day my boss came up there personally with a gun and shot at us” Kat Haha It’s a very different life being right next to earth easy mode Gill LEO crewmember whispering to another one while their commander is on the phone: God, I hope we don't have to go through a teambuilding exercise run by Isabel Lovelace… Kat Although I suppose it makes it even easier for cutter to send goons up to harass you Kate True… “Hey, can we have a new part?” “No, but you can have Victor Riemann! Have fun!”

Gill Alternatively: "Uh… we think we need a new part… ma'am." Minkowski: …okay? Let me get the word out to the supply team. "You're… not gonna send Warren Kepler and his minions with them like Mr. Cutter used to, are you?" Minkowski: What? No. Most of them didn't even come back from Wolf 359. "/sighs and other noises of audible relief, oh thank god!" Kat now imagining SI5 showing up for no goddamn reason on a resupply shuttle and the mission commander being like "i didn't order you" and closing the hatch crewmember: don't those burn up on re-entry commander: not my problem Gill Telling command you need help? Admitting human weakness? That's a Kepler-ing. Kat Yeah well does it admit human weakness to have to be let onto the station before you burn up with all the dirty laundry and other garbage when the capsule gets sent back thru the atmosphere Eiffel hearing about life on LEO stations: I can't believe this. They got new underwear sent up to them though it's a dangerous game… .Terry Virts had two consecutive underwear shipments explode thanks space x Cutter: The Andromeda station's psych evals are too far in the green. Blow up their next three laundry shipments.