#Scissor Lift Platforms

[mtandtgroup-blog]

For businesses in construction, maintenance, and facility management, scissor lifts are essential tools for safe, elevated work. Scissor lifts use a sturdy crisscross (or “scissor”) mechanism to lift workers and equipment to varying heights, making them ideal for inspection, repair, and installation tasks. Mtandt Group, a trusted industry provider since 1974, offers a range of scissor lift rental and scissor lift for sale options to meet diverse project needs.

These platforms come in several types, including hydraulic scissor lifts for powerful, manual lifting; electric scissor lifts for eco-friendly indoor work; and self-propelled scissor lifts that offer excellent mobility for larger spaces. Designed to enhance both safety and productivity, Mtandt’s scissor lift options are ideal for reaching tight or elevated areas on-site. Each model adheres to strict industry standards, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Explore our scissor lift platforms to find the right solution for your facility or project. With options for both rental and purchase, Mtandt offers flexibility for short-term projects or long-term investments, helping customers save on both time and costs. Connect with us today to discuss scissor lift rental rates, scissor lift prices, and our top recommendations for your industry needs.

Most searched questions:

What are the different types of scissor lifts? Where can I rent a scissor lift near me?

[superliftcanada]

Compelling Reasons to Buy Stainless Steel Low Profile Table

Stainless steel low-profile tables are mostly used in different fields due to their unique characteristics like reduced height and sleek design. Loaded with outstanding industry-friendly features like versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal, they make the working environment smooth and free from clutter. Due to these outstanding features, one can buy stainless steel low profile table to make the industrial application even more efficient. 

Application of Stainless Steel Low Profile Table 

Here is the major application of the stainless steel low-profile table. 

Manufacturing and Industrial Application 

These low-profile tables are used extensively in various industrial applications to smooth out processes while carrying out different manufacturing applications. Their robust construction allows them to withstand heavy machinery and equipment, and their low profile makes them easy for industrial operators to access. These tables work well, particularly at workstations where workers have to move large or heavy items. 

Food Processing Industry 

When it comes to the food processing industry, they ought to be safe from all odds, and in such conditions, low-profile stainless steel tables become essential. This is because the material is completely non-porous, resistant to corrosion, and easy to clean, so there will not be much effort required to ready the table for the next process. These tables offer ample workspace for food preparation and can withstand the constant cleaning and sanitizing required in these environments. 

Medical and Laboratory 

Stainless steel is perfect for use in medical and laboratory environments because it is resistant to germs and other diseases. Low profile tables minimize the danger of strain and injury for laboratory workers and other medical professionals by providing a sturdy surface for tools and equipment and by having a lower height that may be modified to meet individual ergonomic needs.

Retail Industry 

These tables are used for product displays in retail environments. Their sleek, contemporary look improves the merchandise's aesthetic appeal. The low profile makes it simple for customers to interact with the products, which could improve engagement and lead to a rise in sales.

Residential Application 

Low-profile stainless steel tables provide fashionable and useful furniture for homes. They are especially well-liked in industrial and contemporary home design styles. Kitchens, dining rooms, and workplaces can all benefit from their robustness and resilience to stains and damage.

Why Use Stainless Steel Low Profile Table? 

The best advantages of these stainless steel low-profile tables are mentioned here. 

Durable and Hygienic 

Stainless steel is well known for being strong and resilient to deterioration. This material is suitable for low profile tables that must withstand severe usage and weather without losing structural integrity. They are therefore an affordable investment for both home and business use. Because stainless steel is non-porous and does not retain bacteria, maintaining a sterile atmosphere is simple. In environments where cleanliness is crucial, such as hospitals, labs, and food preparation areas, this is especially crucial.

Corrosion Resistance and Aesthetically Rich 

Stainless steel's clean and contemporary appearance improves any space's aesthetics. Because of its sophisticated reflecting surface, it's a popular option for high-end kitchens, cutting-edge labs, and chic retail spaces. These tables will always look good and work well because stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, even in the presence of chemicals and moisture. This is especially helpful in contexts like the industrial and culinary industries where exposure to these components occurs often.

When you buy a stainless steel low-profile table, you have plenty of reasons to rejoice. From durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility to making them for a wide range of applications, these tables can make the work environments safe and sound. Whether you install these tables in any industrial setting, culinary environment, or medical facility, they can deliver the best results as per your requirement by optimizing the space and making the work environment even more productive. 

Resource: https://superliftcanada.wordpress.com/2024/06/18/compelling-reasons-to-buy-stainless-steel-low-profile-table/

[digitalshree]

Titan material handling Pvt. Ltd provide Electro Hydraulic Scissor Lift, Mobile Scissor Lift, Movable Scissor Lift, High Rise Scissor Lift at best cost, It Is the best Hydraulic Scissor Lift, Mobile Scissor Lift, Movable Scissor Lift, High Rise Scissor Lift Manufacturer, Supplier company in Pune, Mumbai, India, Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam, SriCity, Guntur, Goa, Margao, Haryana, Gurugram, Faridabad, Gujarat, Ahmedabad, Ankleshwar, Bharuch, Gandhinagar, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Vadodara, Himachal Pradesh, Baddi, Karnataka, Bangalore, Belagavi, Tumkur, Manglore, Hubli, Maharashtra, Navi Mumbai, Mumbai, Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Nagpur, Kolhapur, Rajnangaon, Madhya Pradesh, Pithampur, Indore, Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore, Chennai, Hosur, Uttar Pradesh, Noida, Telangana, Hyderabad, Chakan, Hinjawadi, Pirangut, Baramati, Ranjangaon, shirur

[rmspeltzfarm]

Turn Your Skid steer into a Forklift Basket for $180 Bucks

[fastlinenewark]

As the premier Equipment Safety Training school in NJ, Fast Line Safety Training specializes in Mobile Elevated Work Platform, Scissor Lift, Boom Lift, and Dirt Moving Equipment Certification. We also offer Excavator, Skid Steer, Backhoe, Lull, Forklift, Warehouse Forklift, and Pallet Jack Certification. We provide comprehensive training solutions including WBE, DBE, ANSI A92, SST Worker, SST Supervisor, and OSHA 30 Construction training. Our courses also cover Fall Prevention, Scaffold, 4HR Scaffold, and First aid CPR/AED Training. Site Safety Audits are part of our offering. Your safety is our mission!

Contact Us: Fast Line Safety Training One Gateway Center, Suite 2600, Newark, NJ 07102, USA (201) 208-2203 https://fastlinesafetytraining.com/

[fastlinetrainingpa]

As the premier Equipment Safety Training school in PA, Fast Line Safety Training specializes in Mobile Elevated Work Platform, Scissor Lift, Boom Lift, and Dirt Moving Equipment Certification. We also offer Excavator, Skid Steer, Backhoe, Lull, Forklift, Warehouse Forklift, and Pallet Jack Certification. We provide comprehensive training solutions including WBE, DBE, ANSI A92, SST Worker, SST Supervisor, and OSHA 30 Construction training. Our courses also cover Fall Prevention, Scaffold, 4HR Scaffold, and First aid CPR/AED Training. Site Safety Audits are part of our offering. Your safety is our mission!

CONTACT US: Fast Line Safety Training 1275 Glenlivet Dr Suite 100, Allentown, PA 18106 United States (484) 205-9802 https://www.fastlinesafetytraining.com/

[fastlinesafetyny]

Hands-On Learning: Inside Heavy Equipment Training Programs 

In the realm of heavy machinery, knowledge and skill are the cornerstones of success. The towering cranes, earth-shaking bulldozers, and powerful excavators that shape our modern world require operators who are not just well-versed in theory but are also adept at hands-on control. This is where heavy equipment training programs come into play, immersing aspiring operators in a world of practical learning that bridges the gap between classroom instruction and real-world applications.

The Power of Hands-On Learning

Hands-on learning has long been recognized as one of the most effective methods of education, and heavy equipment training programs embody this principle. These programs understand that the intricate dance between an operator and their machine demands muscle memory, instinctive reactions, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions in real-time. Through hands-on experiences, students can internalize the art of operating heavy machinery, translating theoretical knowledge into practical prowess.

Simulating Real-World Environments

Central to hands-on learning in heavy equipment training is the use of realistic simulations. These simulations recreate authentic work environments, enabling students to practice their skills in a controlled setting before facing the challenges of a construction site. From maneuvering a bulldozer through tight spaces to lifting and placing loads with precision, simulations offer a safe space to make mistakes, learn from them, and develop confidence in their abilities.

Mentorship by Industry Experts

One of the defining features of quality heavy equipment training programs is the mentorship provided by seasoned industry experts. These instructors bring a wealth of experience to the classroom, sharing anecdotes, insights, and practical tips that textbooks simply can't convey. Learners benefit from this firsthand knowledge, gaining insights into best practices, safety protocols, and the nuances of different machines.

Mastering Machine Controls

At the heart of hands-on heavy equipment training lies the mastery of machine controls. Students learn to navigate control panels, levers, switches, and joysticks that govern the intricate movements of the machinery. Through guided practice, they develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect relationships between their actions and the machine's responses, fostering a deep connection between operator and equipment.

Safety as a Priority

Safety is paramount in heavy equipment operations, and hands-on training programs are committed to instilling a safety-first mindset in their students. Operating heavy machinery comes with inherent risks, and proper training ensures that operators are well-versed in safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk assessment. Hands-on training allows students to experience these safety measures in action, making safety an instinctive part of their operating routines.

Building Confidence and Adaptability

The journey from novice to proficient heavy equipment operator is marked by the growth of confidence and adaptability. Hands-on learning plays a crucial role in this transformation. As students progress through their training, they encounter a range of scenarios, from routine tasks to unexpected challenges. Each experience contributes to the development of problem-solving skills, adaptability to different machines, and the ability to make split-second decisions under pressure.

Realizing Industry Relevance

The heavy equipment industry is in a constant state of evolution, with new technologies, techniques, and machinery continually reshaping the landscape. Hands-on training programs are designed to keep pace with these changes, equipping students with the skills and knowledge that are relevant to today's job market. Graduates of these programs emerge not only as operators but also as adaptable professionals ready to contribute to the industry's future.

Hands-On Learning in Action

Consider a scenario in a heavy equipment training program: a student sits in the cab of a hydraulic excavator, hands gripping the controls, and eyes focused on a pile of debris that needs to be moved. With guidance from their instructor, they deftly operate the excavator, scooping up the debris and depositing it into a designated area. This simple action is a culmination of classroom learning, safety instruction, and hours of hands-on practice.

As the training progresses, the student encounters more complex challenges. They might learn to use GPS systems for precise digging, simulate digging trenches for utility lines, or practice intricate maneuvers for delicate tasks like pipe laying. Each exercise hones their skills, building a foundation of competence and confidence that will serve them well in their future career.

The Essence of Hands-On Learning

Heavy equipment training programs focus on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. While classroom education is essential for imparting foundational concepts, the heart of mastery lies in hands-on learning. Students enrolled in these programs get a chance to step into the operator's seat, maneuver the controls, and feel the vibrations of the machinery beneath their fingertips. This tactile experience is invaluable, as it allows trainees to internalize the nuances of machine operation, develop muscle memory, and learn to make split-second decisions.

Simulated Realism

The training environment provided by these programs mirrors real-world conditions as closely as possible. Advanced simulators recreate scenarios that operators are likely to encounter on job sites. From navigating uneven terrain to lifting and placing heavy loads, trainees gain exposure to diverse challenges in a controlled setting. Simulated training not only builds technical proficiency but also hones problem-solving skills and enhances situational awareness.

Safety First

Safety is a paramount concern in heavy equipment operation. A significant portion of hands-on training is dedicated to instilling safety protocols and practices. Trainees learn how to perform pre-operational checks, assess potential hazards, and respond effectively in emergency situations. By incorporating safety into hands-on training, aspiring operators develop a safety-conscious mindset that stays with them throughout their careers, contributing to a culture of safety in the workplace.

Variety of Equipment

Heavy equipment training programs expose students to a variety of machines commonly used in the industry. This breadth of experience equips trainees with versatility, enabling them to adapt their skills to different equipment types. From compact loaders to towering cranes, each machine comes with its own set of challenges and intricacies. Hands-on exposure to a range of equipment prepares operators to tackle various tasks with confidence.

Expert Guidance

Experienced instructors are the linchpin of effective hands-on learning in heavy equipment training programs. These instructors are seasoned professionals who have spent years in the field, mastering the art of machine operation. Their guidance is invaluable as they share practical insights, offer real-world anecdotes, and provide personalized feedback to each trainee. The mentorship aspect of hands-on training not only enhances technical skills but also fosters a deep understanding of the machines' capabilities and limitations.

Progressive Skill Development

Heavy equipment training programs are designed to accommodate learners of all levels – from novices with no prior experience to experienced operators seeking to refine their skills. The curriculum often follows a progressive structure, starting with fundamental concepts and gradually advancing to complex maneuvers. This scaffolding approach ensures that each trainee builds a strong foundation before moving on to more intricate tasks. The gradual progression not only builds competence but also boosts trainees' confidence in their abilities.

Real Job Site Integration

While simulated environments are essential, the ultimate goal of heavy equipment training programs is to prepare operators for real job sites. Many programs incorporate field training, where trainees work under the supervision of experienced operators on actual construction projects. This integration provides a taste of the challenges and demands that operators face in the field. It also instills a sense of responsibility and accountability, as trainees contribute to ongoing projects.

Industry Certification

The successful completion of a reputable heavy equipment training program often leads to industry-recognized certification. This certification serves as a testament to the trainee's skills and competence as an operator. Many employers prioritize certified operators when hiring, recognizing that certified individuals have undergone rigorous training and possess the necessary expertise to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently.

Building Careers

Beyond the technical skills, heavy equipment training programs contribute significantly to career development. The demand for skilled heavy equipment operators remains high, offering graduates a range of employment opportunities across various sectors. Whether it's in construction, mining, forestry, or logistics, the skills acquired through hands-on training are transferable and in constant demand. Moreover, with experience, operators can advance to supervisory roles or even transition to related careers such as equipment maintenance or safety management.

CONTACT US: Fast Line Safety Training 535 Broadhollow Rd STE B9, Melville, NY 11747, United States 631-393-6755 https://www.fastlinesafetytraining.com/

[equipmenthiremelbourne]

Use Well-Maintained Scissor Lift Hire in Dandenong for Short-Term Needs and Save

Trustable access equipments hire companies provide electric scissor lift hire in Dandenong that allows you to utilize these platforms for short-term jobs that save your time and money in the long run.  An electric scissor lift is a self-propelled and battery powered for use on firm level surfaces. These pieces of equipment have an extension deck for greater reach and non-marking tyres. Their bi-energy scissor lift runs on batteries and a Yanmar engine powers a generator that charges batteries while they are being used. The entire outriggers, non-marking lug tyres, and slide-out extension deck are included with this 4WD variant of electric scissor lifts.  These companies advise customers to use electric scissor lift rentals indoors, where there are more readily available electrical outlets. They are simple to use in factories, retail warehouses, and shopping malls.

Their elevated work platform hire in Melbourne is useful for your one-off jobs or temporary use.  Their rental solutions are best suited for worksites that have short-term requirements. By considering yours round the clock service requirements, their friendly team ensures to provide recommendations and advices based on your unique requirements of elevating work platform.  These rental companies ensure that they can provide various type of elevated work platform equipment such as vertical mast platform lifts, electric scissor lifts, diesel RT scissor lifts, electric knuckle boom lifts, diesel knuckle boom lifts and diesel straight boom lifts at affordable rent.

Importance of Scissor Lift Hire Services:

According to numerous portals, high cost of purchasing superior machinery deters many people from ever making an investment in it. For short-term use, clients believe that renting scissor lifts is a superior solution. Many businesses forget the costs of continuous maintenance while making the initial investment in new machinery. The firm that rents out the equipment is responsible for repairs and maintenance, and they take your safety extremely seriously by employing sophisticated software monitoring and cooperating with knowledgeable mechanics and experts.  You can select the scissor lift from a hire company's extensive selection based on what best matches your demands.

In summary, lifting equipment rental companies offer various lifting equipment on rent.  Someone wants to hire these equipment should contact a local access equipment company.

Source

[peachesofteal]

Simple Math / Part 5

Simple Math masterlist

Ghost/Soap/female reader 4.5k words - AO3 Warnings-tags: 18+ MDNI, no smut but this fic contains mature themes. Stalking. Brief mention of domestic violence. Feelings of fear, self loathing, and anxiety. Vomiting. Panic attack/comfort. Medical inaccuracies, hospital setting. A little bit of praise. Johnny is a flirt and a menace.

“Ye’re off yer head.” 

“I’m not.” Johnny expects Simon to relent, to give it up, but when he doesn’t budge, something hot sizzles alive in the pit of Johnny’s stomach, desire roaring to life in his veins. 

“Jus’ like that? Ye’re goin’ let me see yer bonnie face finally?” He slurs, lifting the bottle to his lips, and Simon nods.

“Only if you win."

“And if ye win?” Simon moves closer, his chest brushing against Johnny’s, balaclava covered face dipping down, noses nudging against one another’s in a tentative, teasing way. 

“If I win, you’ll remove something of my choosing instead.” 

Your phone is ringing.

In your sleep, you hardly recognize it, but your subconscious is well trained, and your hand seeks the source of the noise effortlessly, dragging it from the nightstand and next to your face, to squint blearily at it, awareness coming quickly when you recognize the charge nurse’s work line.

“Hello?” You clear the cobwebs of sleep from your throat.

“Hey, sorry to wake you.”

“No, ‘s alright. What’s going on?”

“I know it’s your day off, but-“

“You’re short.” You fill in the blanks, and she huffs.

“We’ve got two out with flu like symptoms, and I’m floating another to-“

“It’s okay.” You swing your feet over the edge of the bed, rubbing your eyes. “I got you. Just give me like, an hour? I have to get ready and stuff.”

“Of course. Thanks so much, you’re a lifesaver.” You zone out for a moment, plotting out the rest of your day, and mumble something like ‘don’t worry about it’, ending the call with your thumb.

The hotel carpet is plush. It’s cushioned and soft, and it gives a little when you stand and stretch, pulling your arms over your head, twisting and turning with tired bones, shaking loose the stupor that holds your neck too straight, too tightly.

OT isn’t the worst thing in the world right now, considering you’re paying for a long term stay in a hotel, you tell yourself more than a few times as you shower and dress. You should be grateful for it. Understaffing has it’s benefits, financially.

The only wrench about coming in on your day off this week is you’re supposed to be collecting more things from your flat. Particularly, clothing. You’ve only got a short rotation of outfits, scrubs, both in short supply, and… no clean underwear. You had planned to move large chunks of your wardrobe over today, probably at least two trips worth, but will now have to settle for stopping by fairly quick to grab what you can.

It will be fine, you think, casually checking your surroundings as you step off the platform. In and out and on with your day.

You were wrong.

You see it immediately, stepping through the door. The locks are in place, handle, deadbolt, extra one at the top, but you can tell, you can feel, that someone has been in here. Your blood thickens in your veins, freezing to a stop, sluggishly propelled by your frenzied heart. You can hear it in your ears, the thunder of your panic, can feel the fear twisting itself into a sailor’s knot and holding you hostage.

Your feeling is confirmed, rationalized, when you push your bedroom door ajar and see the carnage of what’s been left behind on top of your bed.

Shredded panties.

The entire underwear drawer has been spilled out across your sheets, lace and cotton and silk all ripped to pieces, torn edges clearly made by hands, not knives, not scissors, but the personal touch of fingers, of fists.

Your breath catches in your chest, oxygen in the room falling away, leaving you panting, gasping for your next inhale as you cautiously pick up a pair close to you. They’re grey cotton boy shorts, and your stomach flips up into your throat when they stand as stiff as a board, some sort of dried substance splattered across them, rendering the fabric firm and inflexible.

Not… not just some dried substance… you realize in horror, scanning the pile of panties, noticing the stains on most of them, a milky white color shining against black silk.

You can’t breathe. You stumble away, back slamming into your dresser, sinking down onto the floor, hands covering your ears.

This can’t be happening. This can’t be real. 

This is sick, even for him. An escalation of disturbing behavior that sends a chill down your spine, frightening you even more than you already were. You knew he’d get in, hoped he would buy your carefully crafted lie: the appearance of you still living there… but to act so brazenly, to do something like… this.

Does he know, does he realize, you’re not actually living in the flat now? 

He’s really going to kill you this time. 

You race to the toilet, heaving yourself over the seat as your breakfast rushes past your lips, a cup of coffee and half eaten muffin accentuated by the sting of bile, and you gag, spitting and hacking until you’re finished, flushing it all away.

You don’t look at the girl in the mirror. You don’t want to see her. Don’t want to tell her all the ways you’re letting her down. She thinks you’re smarter than this, stronger. Braver. She believes you’ve done it once before, you’ve escaped, you’ve hid, and you can do it again.

She doesn’t know you’re not sure you have the heart for it now. She doesn’t realize you’re tired, you’re afraid. She doesn’t understand that you like the life you’ve made, that running is exhausting, that sometimes, in the very darkest corners of your mind, you think that letting him win might be easiest.

So, you don’t look at her. You mourn your pile of panties for a too long second and lock the apartment up tight.

Get it together. Get yourself together. 

You coach yourself the entire way to work, trying to ignore the rubbing and bunching of your scrub pants, an unfortunate consequence of being forced to go commando.

Deep breath. You can do this. 

You still have your sanctuary. 

You had hoped, for a miniscule moment, that your day might improve once you step foot in the hospital, and you pushed away the inkling that suggested that optimism may be linked the fact that you’ll get to see Simon and Johnny, opting not to even acknowledge the strange sensations swirling about inside your heart whenever you think about the other day. The day when the world stood still and Johnny touched your hand so gently, stroking his fingers over your skin, or when the elevator doors parted to reveal Simon and their baby, a sweet baby girl safe in his arms, his eyes alight and adoring, your knees almost giving out at the sight.

Needless to say, you’re eager to badge in.

The day is quickly derailed, when within a half an hour of getting settled into your routine, an alarm goes off for two sixty-eight: thirty-nine degrees.

Your mind immediately somersaults to the pain in his upper right quadrant from your last shift, logical thought leaping all around as you jog down the hall.

You notated it. You passed it on in shift report. It’s only thirty-nine. You did everything right. No one here would just disregard something like that. Deep breath. 

Still… 

Bile leak. Abscess. Infection. Or worse… hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm, hemorrhaging. Big things that could lead to worse things, worse outcomes, worse- 

The door comes up quicker than you realize, and without hesitating, you slip inside.

“Hi.” You’re a little breathless, and Simon’s eyes snap to yours, taking you in, studying from head to toe, brow knitted together. Johnny’s asleep, and you’re not sure if that makes you feel better, or worse.

“Everything alright?” Of course. He’s too perceptive. Get control of yourself, it could be nothing.

“Yeah, I ah… have to draw some blood.” You really do not want to wake your patient, or alarm Simon, but you refuse to lie. You fire off a text to the attending on call, advising him of Johnny’s temperature and reminding him of the upper right quadrant pain, letting him know he can expect labs as soon as you get them downstairs. You give Simon a nod, turning to slide the draw open quietly, pulling out everything you’ll need. His gaze burns a hole in your scrubs, the ever-present scrutiny impossible to escape, and sometimes you wonder if he’s reading your mind.

“What’s wrong? He just fell asleep, Pen was here all morning, tired him out.” His protest is husky, and you think he’s frowning behind the mask. You imagine a strong mouth pulled downwards in consternation; wide jaw gnashed tight with worry.

“He’s running just a bit of a fever.” He jolts, and you shake your head, hoping to soothe his fear. “It’s not too high. I’m not super worried, but we’ll need to check his white cell count, just in case, okay? And then we’ll go from there.” He nods.

“You said this could happen.” You smile. It feels unsteady, but you hope he can’t tell.

“I did. I promised, that if there was something to panic about, I would tell you. We’re not there yet.” It’s not a lie. Your wild spiral from a few minutes ago was an extreme, not reality, and you need to keep your head on.

“Okay.”

“Right. So, just going to do a quick blood draw and get it downstairs so we can find out what’s going on.” Simon shifts uncomfortably, and you carefully squeeze Johnny's arm, wrapping him with the tie and swabbing the inside of his elbow as fast as possible.

He blinks, eyes opening slowly, confused brow smoothing when he realizes you’re leaning over him, and his gaze darts to Simon before landing back on you. “There’s our bunny.” He mumbles softly, and your face heats, eyes widening in surprise before you regulate your reaction, and Simon coughs. Loudly. Bunny? 

“Such a flirt, MacTavish.” You playfully chastise him, relieved he’s feeling like himself. “I just need to get some blood and then I’ll leave you in peace to sleep.” He shrugs, but Simon rubs a thumb against his thigh in tiny little circles, too fast to be considered comfort, and Johnny clucks. “Ah, come on Si.”

“You’re runnin’ a fever, Johnny.”

“Ach. ‘s nothing.” He brushes it off, but his eyes are slow to track Simon’s movements, and you casually sneak a peek at the monitor, noting his blood pressure.

“Could be.” You assure him, smoothing a hand over his shoulder and taping a small patch of gauze over the puncture. “But better safe than sorry, right?”

The labs are inconclusive. The attending hems and haws before finally asking you to schedule a stat ultrasound of his abdomen, and you manage to bump him to the front of the queue, pulling a few strings here and there by rattling off some bullshit about being higher priority.

In the time it takes for the tech to get to two sixty-eight with the machine, you get a new admission. Intubated, but awake, and getting them and their family squared away takes longer than you would have liked, the patient’s middle-aged husband a wreck of nerves and worry, the kind of anxiety that makes you sit with him in the room for a little while, patting his hand and promising that you’ll be there for them, every step of the way.

By the time you step out of that room, it’s been nearly an hour. You catch a glimpse of Simon in the chairs outside two sixty-eight, and you throw him one of your best work smiles, hoping to reassure him, soothe his nerves. You want to go to him, want to sit beside him and talk him through everything, the outcomes, the possibilities, but you still need to add the notes for your new admit, and-

Someone catches your eye from the end of the hall. It’s a man, white, with brown hair, in regular clothes, and he stands taller than the others around him, shoulders rolled back just- just like-

No. You force yourself to look, to truly see him, taking in his facial features, the slope of his nose, and it’s hardly a second before you’re realizing it’s not who you thought it was. It’s not him. 

The second doesn’t matter to your heart. It’s already racing, tripling it’s steady pace inside your chest. You’re shaking, trembling in the middle of the hall, frantically looking for the nearest closet, or empty room, or…

Stairwell. There’s a stairwell just beyond where Simon is anxiously waiting, and you beeline to it, nearly tripping over your own feet past him. You think you hear your name being called, but the blood rushing in your ears is too loud, and you can’t be sure. Either way, it doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters right now is getting away. Hiding. Not letting yourself be noticed.

You take the first flight down, stopping on the landing to rest your face against the polished, cold wall, desperately trying to fill your lungs with air, encouraging yourself to breathe.

It wasn’t him. You’re safe. 

Deep breath. You can do this. 

Your fingers dig into your hips, squeezing through the numbness, through the overwhelming feeling of your impending doom, and your head swims, lightheadedness nearly knocking you off balance.

“It wasn’t him.” You whisper aloud. “It’s not him. You’re safe. Get it together.” You chant, eyes clenched tight. Your heart is still pounding, no sign of relenting, and your lungs burn, screaming inside you, desperate for air. The feeling of suffocating, of dying, grows stronger, gaining momentum, and your eyes slam shut, your mind and body locked in a tomb of panic and fear. 

You hear your name again. It’s sharper, authoritative, but you can’t open your eyes, too overwhelmed to even make sense of it. Deep breath, just breathe.  

Something touches your shoulder. It’s unexpected, and somewhere in the back of your mind, you register it as gentle, but you’re too far gone, too far buried beneath your fear and your panic and your shame. It triggers you into a defensive posture, and you flinch so hard you jostle yourself into the wall, turning into the corner, hands out in front of your face.

“Hey, hey.” It’s Simon. Simon is standing in the stairwell with you, palms open, concern heavy in his eyes, and you vaguely realize he’s talking, soft, deep words washing over you. “-to breathe?” He comes closer, only half a step, but it’s enough to startle you back into the corner, and he stops short. “It’s alright. I’m not going to touch you.” He soothes, and you recognize the pitch, the calm, affectionate tone from Johnny’s bedside. Sour nausea surges in your stomach, and your lungs fight the invisible hand that tightens around them. “Can you take a deep breath?” You shake your head, and he huffs a soft chuckle. “You can do it, just try. Through your nose, like this.” His chest expands, eye contact never breaking, and you try to follow suit, getting halfway before your head spins, vision tunneling. “You’re alright.”

You’re not alright. None of this is alright. You’re having a panic attack, in the stairwell at your job, in front of a patient’s partner. 

You can’t speak, so you shake your head instead. No.

“Yes, you are.” He assures. “Everything’s okay. Focus on your breathing. Try another one for me.” His hand covers his heart, and you focus on the way it ebbs and flows with the movement of his diaphragm, the pace of his breaths.

You manage to get one full inhale and exhale. And then you get another. Then a third, a fourth, until it’s coming easier, and your head doesn’t feel as fuzzy.

“Good job, that’s it.” Your fingers twist together, the grating noise of your jagged breathing smoothing out even more, and Simon nods encouragingly. “You’re doing great, sweetheart. Nice and slow.” Sweetheart. The word is bright, boundless and sweet as honey, the sentiment settling in your belly and growing warm. The two of you stand there, just breathing, staring at one another, for what feels like an eternity, until you find the strength to summon words. 

“I-I’m sorry.” You finally choke once you’ve got a better handle on yourself, hands going lax at your thighs.

“Nothin’ to be sorry about.” You’re about to brush it off, thorny lies starting to form in your mind, excuses and carefully crafted explanations fusing together when your work phone beeps, the low frequency different from the ones related to patient care. Shit. Already? Simon’s glances at it in your pocket and cocks his head.

“End of my shift.” You explain, moving towards the stairs, your hand trembling on the button to silence the alarm. The muscles in his neck flex, molars grinding together.

“Still feeling a little shaky?” He observes, and you look down to your feet, mortification crawling up your spine, blooming across your cheeks through heated blood vessels.

“Um…”

“Would you mind, maybe sitting with Johnny for a bit?” You do still have notes to do. “If his test is done? I have to run home, help the Prices' put Penny down. She’s been a bit fickle, lately. Missin’ her Da.” He rubs the back of his neck, chest flexing inside the charcoal grey hoodie, and for a weird, too long second, you wonder what it might be like to fall asleep there, or just close your eyes for a minute, even though it's something sweet and far away, unobtainable in every facet. Simon says your name, jogging your attention, and then takes the first step, partially turning like he wants to reach for you, but thinks better of it.

“Uh. Yeah, I… I can.”

You badge out and grab your stuff, keeping your tablet so you can complete your notes while you sit with Johnny. You’ve already checked his results, and when you slip inside the room, the attending is updating them, explaining how he has a very small bile leak, and will need an endoscopic procedure tomorrow morning.

The attending excuses himself, giving you a quick nod, and then Simon leans down, knocking their foreheads together tenderly. 

“Keep an eye on him, I hear he likes to make trouble.” Johnny smiles, pink-red color creeping up his neck into his cheeks, and Simon seems like he’s smiling, before he turns serious. “Behave. I won’t be too long.”

“I always behave.” He pats the side of the bed, beckoning you, and you shake your head, plopping down in the recliner to his right.

“I hear ye’re keepin’ me company, pretty girl?”

“I am. Got some notes to finish, heard this chair was pretty comfortable.” You quip back easily, and it feels natural, to be joking and laughing, to be hiding again.

“Well, I’ll try not to distract ye then.”

Your tablet clicks dark with a satisfying shutter, and when you place it face down, Johnny gives you one of his stupidly handsome smiles. “All finished?”

“Yeah, not too bad.” His phone vibrates against the tabletop, and with his good hand, he opens the message, turning it to show you the screen. It’s a picture of Penny, half asleep against Simon, clad in a pink onesie covered in little ducks. Her cheek is squished against him, long baby lashes fluttering on her skin. “She’s so cute.” You say, and he nods, flushed with pride. You glance at the contact name, Lou, and before you can stop yourself, a question bursts out: “Who’s Lou?”

“Our captain’s wife. She’s been helpin’ a lot, with Pen. Which is great, they’re getting a lot of girl time.”

“Your captain?”

“Aye.”

“Is that…” you want to ask but trail off. You don’t want to admit that you’ve heard gossip about them.

“Military. Simon an’ I work together, in a task force.” A task force. A task force sounds eerily close to special ops, and your nausea comes back with a vengeance.

“What… what kind of task force?”

“Global ops. Anti-terrorism, domestic threats, the lot. How I ended up here, with ye.” The image of your ex looms, his body tense in his gear, or the memory of his boots, sitting shiny by the door, one of them pulling back, swinging towards your stomach. “Bun?” Bun?

“Huh?” you blink. “Oh, sorry. Spaced out there for a second.”

“That’s alright. Simon said ye had a bit of a scare earlier?”

“No I uh, just couldn’t catch my breath, but I was fine. It was fine.” You deflect, moving on as quick as you can manage. “Did you call me bun? And… didn’t you call me bunny, earlier?” He gives you a sheepish look.

“Aye. Is our nickname for ye.”

“Wait, what? Why?”

“Well… ye look a bit like a bunny, and ye had that sticker the other day that Penny noticed.” Your face heats. “I know ye’re probably real soft like a bun, too.” Real soft? Is he… does he mean- your eyes widen, and he smirks.

“Johnny.” You flounder, helplessly, confused by his attention, this flirtation that seems to have grown into real affection, and he shifts slightly, leaning forward, reaching for your hand.

“Ye dinnae need to be afraid.” He coos. The words are a moon above a tide, pulling and reaching, dragging the swell of the waves higher and higher, until they threaten to pull you under, overwhelm you and drown you.

“I…” I don’t understand? I thought you were gay? I don’t know what is happening here? Johnny grimaces, and you immediately forget about the conversation and leap into action, jumping to your feet. “What is it? Where’s your pain?” Your hands hover over his belly, and he points to where his liver currently sits, slowly leaking inside his body, spilling bile that could eventually kill him if it hadn’t been caught. You pull down the blanket, unsnapping his gown to push it aside, checking for anything physically observable, site swelling, a rash, anything. “Does this hurt?” You cautiously press down, tapping slightly, watching his face for a reaction.

“No.” he says, and when you reach over to his other side, turning to watch his facial expressions, he moves with you, barely leaning, chin pointed in your direction.

His face is suddenly incredibly close to your face. And he looks… so handsome. So pretty, with his bright blue eyes and perfect bones, soft lips that part with an inhale. He dazzles you. Distracts you.

This is your patient, get it together. You’re a professional, act like it. 

“Does that hurt?” You croak, and his lips quirk into a half smile, a warm palm gliding over the small of your back.

“It doesnae hurt, bun.” He winks.

“Oh my god, were you faking?” You try to stand up, but the pressure on your spine is firm, and he chuckles.

“Can I tell ye a secret?” He’s fully serious now, question whispered just above your ear, and you nod.

“Of course.”

“Ye’v been drivin’ me mad today, pretty girl. Walkin’ around here wit’ no panties on.” Oh. Oh… my god. You shoot upwards, hand covering your mouth in shock, and he laughs, raising an eyebrow before his gaze drifts over the curve of your hip.

“Johnny!” you hiss, scandalized, and then guilt hits you like a train, like two tons of rocks have been dropped on top of you. Simon. “Johnny, you… you and Simon, you’re-“

“We’re lucky ye’ve come into our lives.” He finishes, and you frown, confused. “We think ye’re really special.” We. We?

“What did I miss?” Simon says from the doorway, and you jerk, stepping back like Johnny’s bed is on fire and you’ve just been burnt, eyes wide and wild. You feel like a child, caught with a hand in the cookie jar, but Simon doesn’t look angry. Just curious.

“Jus’ talking.” Johnny replies, and he starts to lower his bed, watching you with heavy eyes.

“Well. I should get going. I’ve got a few trains to make.” You glance at the clock, and then give them both a polite smile. Simon crosses his arms.

“Looks like you tired him out.” He comments, and they glance at one another, some sort of communication happening silently before he shrugs. “Let me drive you.”

“Oh, no. I couldn’t. It’s not… you just got back, and I’m fine, really. It’s not that far, I-“

“If it’s not that far, let him drive ye.” Johnny pipes up, and Simon piles on easily. 

"He's not going to let this go, and neither am I. Let me get you home safely, please." You shouldn't. You really, really shouldn't. "It's the least we can do." Your shoulders slump in defeat. It’s just a ride. It’s not crossing a line.

“Okay, then.” Johnny smiles, and Simon moves to his side, brushing his mask covered mouth against his forehead.

“She go down okay?” Johnny murmurs, tenderly cupping his cheek. 

“Like a champ. Promised I’d bring her tomorrow morning. Think she understood me.”

“Aye. She’s smarter than ye, so probably.” He teases, and they share a lighthearted laugh before Johnny’s bidding you a goodbye, and Simon directs you out the door.

“Uh, right here is fine.” You point to the curb, and Simon slows the car to a stop, turning to face you with that ever-present scrutiny, brows shoved down above his eyes.

“A hotel?” You swallow.

“My um, my flat is being renovated. It’s a whole thing so I just figured I wo-would stay somewhere else.” You want to flee, run out of this car and away from him, but he holds you in place so easily with just his eyes, so you sit there, frozen, one hand on the door handle, the other splayed against your thigh.

“Is everything alright? Earlier-“

“I’m fine.” You rush out, cutting him off. It’s well practiced, the denial, the avoidance, these things that you normally excel out.

But nothing is normal with them. 

He cocks his head, and then nods, and you breathe a little easier, turning to push the door open.

“Wait.” A hand tugs at you, thick, warm fingers lightly touching your wrist, and you whip back around to face him, eyes wide. “If you ever need anything, Johnny and I… we’re here.” Why is your heart beating so fast? 

“Oh, I uh… I’m fine, I don’t need-“

“That doesn’t work on me. Johnny either, pretty girl.” He tells you, and it’s so firm, so strong backed, that your mouth goes dry, and you gape at him. What? What doesn’t work? Is he… is he saying he doesn’t buy it? Doesn’t believe you? He’s reading your mind, subtly raising an eyebrow, and then nodding. “Put my number in your phone.” He instructs, and like a robot, like a vampire’s Thrall, you pull it from your bag, swiping open the contact list and pressing each number in the order he gives it. “We’ll see you tomorrow?” He asks once you’re finished, and you mumble a shaky yes, finally pushing the door open, and climbing out.

“Alright, well. Good night.” You bend at the waist, giving him a wave through the window, and his jaw moves beneath the mask, shifting to the side, eyes squinting at the corners. He's smiling. 

“Good night, bunny.”

[sassenach77yle]

||COUNTDOWN || SEASON 4 EPISODE 01 || AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL ||

#83daysofoutlander☆

“What’s this?” I ran my hand curiously over the box.

“Oh, only a wee present.”

He didn’t look at me, but the tips of his ears were pink. “Open it, hm?” It was a heavy box, both wide and deep. Carved of a dense, fine-grained dark wood, it bore the marks of heavy use—nicks and dents that had seasoned but not impaired its polished beauty. It was hasped for a lock, but there was none; the lid rose easily on oiled brass hinges, and a whiff of camphor floated out, vaporous as a jinn. The instruments gleamed under the smoky sun, bright despite a hazing of disuse. Each had its own pocket, carefully fitted and lined in green velvet. A small, heavy-toothed saw; scissors, three scalpels—round-bladed, straight-bladed, scoop-bladed; the silver blade of a tongue depressor, a tenaculum … “Jamie!” Delighted, I lifted out a short ebony rod, to the end of which was affixed a ball of worsted, wrapped in rather moth-eaten velvet. I’d seen one before, at Versailles; the eighteenth-century version of a reflex hammer.

“Oh, Jamie! How wonderful!”

He wiggled his feet, pleased. “Oh, ye like it?” “I love it! Oh, look—there’s more in the lid, under this flap—” I stared for a moment at the disjointed tubes, screws, platforms and mirrors, until my mind’s eye shuffled them and presented me with the neatly assembled vision.

“A microscope!”

I touched it reverently. “My God, a microscope.” “There’s more,” he pointed out, eager to show me. “The front opens and there are wee drawers inside.” There were—containing, among other things, a miniature balance and set of brass weights, a tile for rolling pills, and a stained marble mortar, its pestle wrapped in cloth to prevent its being cracked in transit. Inside the front, above the drawers, were row upon row of small, corked bottles made of stone or glass. “Oh, they’re beautiful!” I said, handling the small scalpel with reverence. The polished wood of the handle fit my hand as though it had been made for me, the blade weighted to an exquisite balance. “Oh, Jamie, thank you!” “Ye like them, then?” His ears had gone bright red with pleasure. “I thought they’d maybe do. I’ve no notion what they’re meant for, but I could see they were finely made.”

I had no notion what some of the pieces were meant for, but all of them were beautiful in themselves; made by or for a man who loved his tools and what they did. “Who did they belong to, I wonder?” I breathed heavily on the rounded surface of a lenticular and brought it to a soft gleam with a fold of my skirt. “The woman who sold it to me didna ken; he left behind his doctor’s book, though, and I took that, as well—perhaps it will give his name.” Lifting the top tray of instruments, he revealed another, shallower tray, from which he drew out a fat square-bound book, some eight inches wide, covered in scuffed black leather. “I thought ye might be wanting a book, too, like the one ye kept in France,” he explained. “The one where ye kept the pictures and the notes of the people ye saw at L’Hôpital. He’s written a bit in this one, but there’s a deal of blank pages left at the back.” Perhaps a quarter of the book had been used; the pages were covered with a closely written, fine black script, interspersed with drawings that took my eye with their clinical familiarity: an ulcerated toe, a shattered kneecap, the skin neatly peeled aside; the grotesque swelling of advanced goiter, and a dissection of the calf muscles, each neatly labeled. I turned back to the inside cover; sure enough, his name was written on the first page, adorned with a small, gentlemanly flourish: Dr. Daniel Rawlings, Esq. “What happened to Dr. Rawlings, I wonder? Did the woman who had the box say?” Jamie nodded, his brow slightly creased. “The Doctor lodged with her for a night. He said he’d come from Virginia, where his home was, bound upon some errand, and his case with him. He was looking for a man named Garver—she thought that was the name, at least. But that night after supper he went out—and never came back.” I stared at him. “Never came back? Did she find out what happened to him?” Jamie shook his head, batting away a small cloud of midges. The sun was sinking, painting the surface of the water gold and orange, and bugs were beginning to gather as the afternoon cooled into evening. “No. She went to the sheriff, and to the justice, and the constable searched high and low—but there was nay sign of the man. They looked for a week, and then gave up. He had never told his landlady which town it was in Virginia, so they couldna trace him further.” “How very odd.” I wiped a droplet of moisture off my chin. “When did the Doctor disappear?” “A year past, she said.” He looked at me, a little anxious. “Ye dinna mind? Using his things, I mean?” “No.” I closed the lid and stroked it gently, the dark wood warm and smooth under my fingers. “If it were me—I’d want someone to use them.” I remembered vividly the feel of my own doctor’s bag—cordovan leather, with my initials stamped in gilt on the handle. Originally stamped in gilt on

the handle, that is; they had long since worn off, the leather gone smooth and shiny, rich with handling. Frank had given me the bag when I graduated from medical school; I had given it to my friend Joe Abernathy, wanting it to be used by someone who would treasure it as I had. He saw the shadow drift across my face—I saw the reflection of it darken his—but I took his hand and smiled as I squeezed it. “It’s a wonderful gift. However did you find it?” He smiled then, in return. The sun blazed low, a brilliant orange ball glimpsed briefly through dark treetops. “I’d seen the box when I went to the goldsmith’s shop—it was the goldsmith’s wife who’d kept it. Then I went back yesterday, meaning to buy ye a bit of jewelry—maybe a brooch—and whilst the goodwife was showing me the gauds, we happened to speak of this and that, and she told me of the Doctor, and—” He shrugged. “Why did you want to buy me jewelry?” I looked at him, puzzled. The sale of the ruby had left us with a bit of money, but extravagance was not at all like him, and under the circumstances— “Oh! To make up for sending all that money to Laoghaire? I didn’t mind; I said I didn’t.” He had—with some reluctance—arranged to send the bulk of the proceeds from the sale of the stone to Scotland, in payment of a promise made to Laoghaire MacKenzie—damn her eyes—Fraser, whom he had married at his sister’s persuasion while under the rather logical impression that if I was not dead, I was at least not coming back. My apparent resurrection from the dead had caused any amount of complications, Laoghaire not least among them. “Aye, ye said so,” he said, openly cynical. “I meant it—more or less,” I said, and laughed. “You couldn’t very well let the beastly woman starve to death, appealing as the idea is.” He smiled, faintly. “No. I shouldna like to have that on my conscience; there’s enough without. But that’s not why I wished to buy ye a present.” “Why, then?” The box was heavy; a gracious, substantial, satisfying weight across my legs, its wood a delight under my hands. He turned his head to look full at me, then, his hair fire-struck with the setting sun, face dark in silhouette.

“Twenty-four years ago today, I married ye, Sassenach,” he said softly. “I hope ye willna have cause yet to regret it.”

[mtandtgroup-blog]

Discover the essential guide to scissor lifts: safety features, operation, maintenance, and choosing the perfect lift for your projects. Elevate safely!

[superliftcanada]

Best Features to Get When You Order Stainless Steel Scissor Lifts Online

Industrial and commercial operations need efficient material handling equipment that can easily carry out the operations of carrying heavy and bulky goods. Since there is a wide variety of tools designed for the vertical lifting of products, stainless steel scissor lifts are the best of them as they offer a seamless and reliable operational experience. These outstanding lifts come with various advanced features, including self-propelled functionality, higher and better travel capabilities, custom size to suit operational needs, and a larger platform for holding maximum goods along with the self-propelled function. One can order stainless steel scissor lifts online to match all these operational expectations. Here are the advanced features of these scissor lifts that you can get for operational readiness. 

Custom Sizes 

Each workspace needs different types of equipment to meet operational needs. This is the reason why stainless steel scissor lifts are available in various sizes with features that can perfectly match the current operational requirements. From specific dimensions to added features, these scissor lifts can thoroughly accelerate your productivity, and once you invest in this equipment, you will get the output for a longer time with less maintenance. Whether it's a compact lift for tight spaces or a larger model for heavy-duty tasks, custom sizing ensures that the lift seamlessly integrates into the current workflow.  

Self-Propelling Functionality 

There is no longer a need to rely on external assistance to move the scissor lifts from one location to another. Since they come with self-propelled functionality, the stainless steel scissor lifts allow the operators to maneuver with each, enhancing productivity while reducing the dependency on extra manpower. This outstanding feature is beneficial in a busy work environment where agility and efficiency are important. 

Higher Lifting Capacity 

When it needs to operate in elevated areas, the lift has to go for extra height, and this is only possible when you have the right scissor lifts in your production facility. Stainless steel scissor lifts with increased travel capabilities make extended vertical reach possible, making it easier for operators to reach elevated platforms and work locations. This function is a huge advantage in a variety of industries as it reduces downtime and increases production.

Easy to Maintain Highest Sanitary Standards 

Industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals and healthcare needs highest sanitary standards and this is get fulfilled by stainless steel scissor lifts. They are developed to meet the rigorous hygiene standards. 

Integrated and Internal Power packs 

Stainless steel scissor lifts with integrated power packs reduce the need for external components while ensuring dependable and smooth operation. These lifts are more streamlined and less prone to damage because the power source is housed internally, increasing their longevity and reliability. Furthermore, internal power packs lower operating costs and downtime by streamlining maintenance and service requirements.

Spacious and Larger Platforms 

The wider platform gives operators more room to work and can support more personnel or heavier goods. Larger platform stainless steel scissor lifts are more efficient and versatile when it comes to moving big machinery or performing maintenance. This capability is especially helpful in sectors where workspace optimization is crucial, such as manufacturing, construction, and warehousing.

Safety Skirts 

Any workplace should prioritize safety, and stainless steel scissor lifts with safety skirts reduce the possibility of entrapment or unintentional contact with moving parts. These skirts offer an extra degree of protection, encouraging a safe workplace and lowering the possibility of mishaps or injuries.

Foot Controls 

Operators can easily operate the lift with stability and control thanks to foot controls, which provide hands-free simplicity. This ergonomic feature increases operator comfort and productivity, especially while doing jobs that call for using the hands and feet at the same time. Foot controls increase overall productivity by streamlining operations and lowering operator fatigue by doing away with the need for manual controls.

When you order stainless steel scissor lifts online, you have all these features to choose from, and this is why it becomes easy to get all these types of features on the platter that would rightly match all your expectations while meeting productive parameters. 

Resource: https://superliftcanada.wordpress.com/2024/05/28/best-features-to-get-when-you-order-stainless-steel-scissor-lifts-online/ 

[nardo-headcanons]

Writing Scientist Characters

this post is mainly an excuse to post a certain list of lab supplies I've made for a friend and infodump about lab work. but feel free to use this as a little resource when writing characters who are scientists and/or lab nerds. who knows, maybe it'll be of use.

General thoughts

Many people think it's a stereotype that scientist or nerd characters talk using complex technical jargon. While that is true to an extent, there actually is some kind of lab jargon. It varies across different labs and fields, but one thing they have in common is that it seeks to simplify, not the other way around.

gelelectrophoresis becomes elpho

microbiology becomes mibi

deioninized water becomes aqua dist

biochemistry becomes BC

sodium hydroxide becomes NaOH

They will probably not call a glass of water "silicon dioxide and h2o".

...and more. feel free to get creative. If you're writing in any other language than English, you can throw in one or two anglicisms as well. Also, most scientists will never gatekeep their work, and in an opposite fashion, will not shut up about it unless you make them. And no, most chemists do not know the entire periodic table by heart, only the most relevant elements. (main groups and a few commonly used metals of the subgroups) When it comes to characters doing the lab work, keep in mind that there are a lot more people involved than the scientist themself. Most scientists are more occupied with paperwork and data analysis, it is the laboratory technicians and assistants that do most of the practical work. They often have more lab experience than the scientists themselves.

Things you can have your lab nerd character do instead of making random chemicals explode

writing a lab report (and losing their mind over excel)

degreasing the glass bevel stoppers

removing the permanent marker from beakers (labeling is important)

complaining about the lack of funding of [their field] research

cleaning glassware

preparing specimen for examination

googling the most basic equations for their report

checking if the glassware and utensil collections are complete

steal single use plastic pipettes from their lab

pirating expensive textbooks

A list of laboratory supplies and utensils you can have them work with

Laboratory general (chem + bio)

Erlenmayer flasks, beakers, precision scales (3 digits), glass rods, metal spoons/spatulas, screw on glass flasks (autoclave compatible) test tubes, stopcock grease, dispensers with sanitizer and hand cream, gas burners, heating plates, eppendorf pipettes, pipette tips, Peleus pipetting aids, squirting bottles, liquid and powder funnels, incubator/drying chamber, round watch glasses, magnet stirring plates.

Microbiology Autoclave, petri dishes, agar plates, innoculation loops (reusable and metal), clean bench, microscope slides, microscope, drigalski-spatula, test tubes with clamping lids

Histology

Paraffin bath, water bath, scalpels, scissors, razor blades, microtomes (rotating microtome, slide microtome and freezing microtome), histocinette, tweezers (various kinds), ocular

Biochemistry

Sequencing robots, eppendorf tubes, gelelectrophoresis chambers, centrifuge

Analytical Chemistry

Photometer, kuvettes, burettes, mass spectro meters, UV bank (for chromatogrophies), pyknometers, melting point meter, porcelain mortars, pH paper, analytical scales (4 or more digits)

Prep Chemistry

Tripod/standing material, miniature lifting platforms, spiral condenser, colon condenser, round bottom flask (three necked and y- necked), filtration material, Separating funnel

Electrical engineering

Electric generators, Soldering iron, Clamp connectors, plugin connectors, ohm’s resistors, plug in lamps, condensers, transistors, PCBs, amperemeters, voltmeters, multimeters

Mechanics

Tripod/standing material, metal hooks, metal rods, mechanical stop watches, marbles, metal springs, Newton meters, laser motion detectors

Optics

Prisma (various kinds), various glass lenses (concave, convex, biconcave, biconvex), laser pointers, optical bench, mechanical iris diaphragm, looking glasses, monochrome lamps, lamp filters

Most used chemicals

Deionized water, ethanol, NaOH, HCl, H3PO4, NaCl (+ physiological NaCl solution 0.9)

Useful websites for writing science stuff

DNA sequence generator (simple): http://www.faculty.ucr.edu/~mmaduro/random.htm

DNA, RNA and protein sequence generator: https://molbiotools.com/randomsequencegenerator.php Annealing temperature calculator: https://tmcalculator.neb.com/#!/main

Medicine name generator: https://www.fantasynamegenerators.com/medicine-names.php Anything chemistry related: https://www.wolframalpha.com/input?i=chemistry

Commonly used software:

MS Excel

Yenka

CASSY Lab

LabView

SpectraLab

LIMS

LaTex

Slack

Scientist friends, feel free to add onto this.

Have fun writing!

[atxxokirina]

Request: "Readers best friend warning reader not to flirt with Ronal but y/n can't keep her hands to herself?"

— 'Don't Say I Didn't Warn You' Ronal x fem Metkayina reader (18+)

contains: SUPER SMUT, sub reader, ronal before pregnancy, dom ronal, tsaheylu play (?), tongue play, pussy eating, scissoring, squirting. lmk if i missed anything!

na'vi key: tewng = loincloth || lor ‘evenge = beautiful girl || kuru = natural queue

You sit in your Marui pod, working on a new piece of jewelry to pass the time. An anklet that you'd weaved tiny shells into. This was therapeutic for you, always clearing your head of whatever occupied it.

Suddenly, the alarm goes off. Scaring you so much that you'd drop everything you're doing and run out of your pod, checking your surroundings to try and get a read on what caused the alarm. You see others making their way to the common area, and catch a glimpse of one of your friends.

"Saotún, what's going on?!" You grasped the girl's arm, a look of panic plastered all over your face. "I don't know," she shrugs. "But Ronal is calling everyone, we have to go." You follow everyone else, seeing an angry Ronal. Her back is turned as she's explaining the situation to the others. You pick up that the sky demons have been lingering around, so she's set a time that everyone should be in their homes.

"Half before eclipse. These demons hunt at night, and we will not give them the opportunity!" She declares, gaining war cries and cheers from some. Your eyes begin follow the woman's figure, eyeing her plush thighs and plump ass. You shift your hip, admiring all that she's got. Saotún notices and scoffs. "Y/n, are you really eye-fucking our Tsahík right now?"

"Um, how can I not? Do you see her?" Just as you say that, she turns around, still talking about the situation. You're not paying attention to a single word she's saying anymore. All you can focus on is how her pretty her breasts sit, how her ass is just the perfect shape, and how-

"Don't even try it." Saotún interrupts your thoughts. "I heard that she broke hearts like crazy before she became Tsahík. She'd fuck like an animal too, and not in a good way." Your friend whispers, nudging your arm.

"How do you even know this? And how is fucking like an animal not good?" You ask, arms folded as your view is still locked on Ronal. "People talk, y/n." She sighs. "But trust me, you do not want anything with Ronal. She'll go at you, and then leave you like trash."

"Damn, she's never heard of aftercare, huh?" You joke. Your friend chuckles beside you and places her hand on your shoulder. "Just don't go for her, I'm warning you." You roll your eyes at Saotún. "Yeah, yeah okay. I'm not scared of her."

"Alright, alright.." Your friend lifts her hands in the air. "Don't say I didn't warn you."

As the meeting concludes, you stroll towards the platform Ronal stood on. She turns around, facing you with a suprised smirk on her face. "Y/n." She sharply inhales. "Something I can help you with?"

"Lor ‘evenge, so nice to see you." You prop your hands behind your back, tilting your head and flashing a smile. "You know, your tewng looks exceptionally stunning today, is this new?" You reach your hand to the bottom of her loincloth, fingers grazing the lightly emerald colored tassels that dangled on it. She grips her hand on your wrist, halting you from touching any longer.

Eyeing you up and down for a moment, she cocks her head, clearing her throat. "Meet me in the armory at eclipse." She ordered in a stern voice, speaking over her shoulder. You squinted your eyes at her sudden request. Confused, but intrigued.

As the time passed, you looked up at the sky to see eclipse beginning to form. You hopped up from you cot, nervous but excited to see what Ronal wanted to see you for.

You made your way to the meeting spot, passing up the communal square. A crisp blow of cold air brushes in the wind, causing your body to shiver for a moment. "Fuck, wish I brought my shawl.." You whispered to yourself.

Ronal awaits for you in the armory. A place that's filled with armor, spears, arrows and other weapons, made by the Na'vi. As you enter the enter, she looks at you from where she stands, motioning you to come closer. "Come, sit."

"Okay.." You mutter in a soft voice, sitting across from the woman. She stares at you for a moment. Suddenly, she grabs the knife that rested on her hip and places it's sharp head against your neck, prodding at your jugular. She smirked, her eyes gleam a threatening chartreuse. Ronal's knees positive in between your middle. "Let's have an agreement, hm?" She huffs. "You serve me, and I will keep you safe. Do you understand?"

A large surge of terror and arousal rolled through your body, shuddering as the your eyebrows would furrow in fear, eyes growing wide. "S-Serve you, h-how?" You breathily stuttered, chest rising up and down rapidly.

Ronal looks you over with a mixture of sadness and disappointment. She sighs and leans on the knife. "You will do whatever I want, and when I want. Your obedience will be rewarded. Your disobedience.. will be punished." She emphasizes the last word, sounding more like a warning then an agreement.

You hesitantly nod, holding back a large gulp. "Okay. Okay.. Ronal. I'll do whatever you want." You agreed as you felt your loincloth growing wet by the second.

She smirks and tilts her head as she looks you over. She moves the spear away from your neck, earning an exhaled gasp from you.

"Good girl.." Ronal strokes your cheek with the tips of her fingers, leaning in and giving you a tender kiss before pulling back. A line of saliva disconnects the kiss as your flutter your eyes open, staring at Ronal in her essence.

She reaches behind your waist, untying your loincloth from around your tail. Once it's loose, she snaps it down, causing you to flinch a bit. She quietly chuckles at your reaction, bringing her digits down to your slippery slit as she lays your body down.

"Such a pretty pussy.." She breathes out, licking a stripe of your wetness up. "Ah," You slightly moan at the feeling. Ronal's hand reaches up to your chest, squeezing and feeling around the nub of your nipple.

"More, please.." You whine for her. She listens, instantly shoving her tounge inside of your pussy. Swirling it around and sucking on your clit like her life depends on it. Your breathing picks up and comes out in shudders. "Oh my.. fuck!" You moan, eyes screwed shut as Ronal's tounge continues to reach deep inside of you.

She hummed against your clit, sending a wave of vibrations against your body. You whimper and whine above her, back arching as your hips subconsciously grind into her mouth.

Ronal pulls away, licking her lips and replacing her tongue with her two large digits. Forcing your spongey walls open as she curls her pointers up. With her free hand, she unties her loincloth and positions her body on top of yours, clits meeting each other.

As you continue to writhe in pleasure, she grinds her pearl against yours, throwing her head back as her digits continue to pump your pussy full. "Dirty girl, mmh.. look at you becoming a mess for me." She degrades. You moan in response, feeling your slick ooze out onto her pussy. Ronal leans down to your face with a grin. "Open." She demands.

You obey and open your mouth, eyes peering up at her. She shoved her tounge into your mouth now, finding yours and looping around it. You can feel how good this is making her feel, and it's the same for you. Your pussy clenches around nothing as you both suck each other's tongues. Your eyes fell closed while Ronal humps your clit, juices mixing together.

"Uh! Ngghhh.." You'd whimper in her mouth, bucking your hips up to meet hers. Ronal reaches behind your coiled hair, pulling out your queue. Your eyes shoot open as you feel it. "Ronal- w-what are you doing?" You ask, she kept her fingers inside of you but her hips have come to a slower pace. "Mm," She sighs. "What if I just.." Reaching to the back of her hair, she takes out her queue as well, the tendrils engaging with each other threatening, to wrap around and become one.

"N-No! Please, don't-" You lifted your body up in an attempt to stop her, but she pushed you right back down, still teasing your kuru. "Oh, no?" She brings them to her mouth, licking around your braid as your eyes rolled back in ecstasy. She finds amusement in the way your body crumbles beneath her, she begins to pick up her pace again, rubbing up on your pussy and slipping her fingers out of your cunt to shove them into your mouth.

"Taste yourself while I taste you." Her tone is deep and sensual, almost hypnotizing. She could tell you to do anything and you'd instantly comply. Ronal's tounge kitten licks your kuru again, clit growing sensitive as she reaches her finishing point. You whine and moan as her fingers are still filling your mouth, incoherent "please's" and "no's" escaping your mouth.

Ronal holds your body down again, humping you faster than before. "You're cumming soon. I feel it, little one." She pants, looking down at you with lust filled eyes. "Mmhhmmm..!" A long moan from you, unable to understand or even respond to her. Before you know it, a tense thump in your heart appears, an intense and sharp inhale escapes your mouth. You open your eyes to see that she'd formed Tsaheylu.

"N-No.. w-what.. what did you— ughhhh!" Your words are blocked out by how the amount of pleasure you're in. The knot in your stomach is unraveling, she's staring at you with lidded eyes. Smiling in deviance. "You're stuck with me forever now, little one." She huffs, just as those words come out, your squirt does too. You're a shaking, stuttering mess. It's nothing like you've ever felt before. Your pussy is pulsing and aching as the liquids flow.

Ronal breaks the bond, getting off of your body as it grew limp. She slipped her loincloth back on as if nothing happened. As if she didn't just fuck you to the verge of tears right now. She knees beside you, kissing your temple. "Maybe you should have listened to your friend, hm?" Ronal caresses your head, watching as the consciousness in your eyes fell away as you pass out.

taglist: @neytirishottie

[isleofdarkness]

Rise of Red Doll Review

Putting this under a cut because it's going to be long.

So, I got the Rise of Red singing Red doll NiB (new in box) off of eBay.

First off, the box was impossible. Getting her out was mostly easy, but there were these little plastic things keeping her head in the plastic backing for her head (hard to explain without showing but I didn't think to film the unboxing.) I needed to have my brother get his pocket knife to get her out of the box. Yes, I will acknowledge that Monster High and Ever After High dolls had these same plastic tidbits in the backs of their heads, but they only had two plastic tidbits while Red had three, and there usually wasn't a piece of moulded plastic covering the back half of their heads. She also did not come with a hairbrush, which is kind of irritating, but I guess that's what Barbie does so I'll allow it.

Now for the doll herself

Her hair is super long. It's long enough to reach the tops of her thighs. It's also crimped kind of like D2 Uma's hair was. She has these weird painted-on edges.

Her face looks like Kylie but not like Kylie, if that makes sense. Like they took Kylie as Red and edited her until she was slightly uncanny valley

Her clothes are a mere one layer, which is kind of to be expected for Descendants dolls. I got the doll with her original punk outfit and am sad to report that it does not have her crest, likely due to the velcro on the back of her jacket.

All of the designs of her jacket are printed on rather than layers, which is also to be expected.

Her shirt is just a bit too short for her high-waisted pants. You can see in the pictures that the holes of her speaker and visible between the hemline of her shirt and the waistline of her pants.

She has a belt with a black heart buckle, but the buckle is also not her crest.

She has chunky bright red platforms that do kind of have her crest if you lift up the leg of her pants to look, but it's a poor excuse for her crest, being solid red, having the lightning strike in the wrong position, and being very hard to see.

Now, for the doll as a doll

Number one, I scared myself shitless as I was trying to pull off her inconvinient jacket and accidentally pressed the button on her chest, causing her to sing quite loudly. And then I noticed something quite infuriating;

See that? yes, there are two tiny plastic tabs keeping her shirt attached to her pants. So I had to go get the scissors.

Her arms and legs are one-jointed, meaning her has moving hip joints and moving shoulder joints, everything else is fixed. Meaning she is going to struggle to do her epic jumps. A tragedy

The battery can be accessed through a small compartment in her inner left thigh using a small phillip's head screwdriver.

Overall, her design feels very Barbie-esque, which I guess I expected from Mattel.

But, here's my final test of quality

Do other doll clothes fit Red? For this, I used a G1 Mal, Dracubecca wearing Ghoulia's clothes, Legacy Day Briar Beauty, some random Barbie clothes, and Namaari. I was originally going to do more but I got so sick of getting jumpscared by the music that I decided to forgo that idea. Maybe I'll test her against G3 Twyla, Porter Geiss, and generic Cassandra another day.

Test one, Ghoulia's dress (plus a Ghouls Rule Frankie boot)

Results; Fail. Did not close down the back, was honestly a nightmare to put on due to Red's non-detachable hands

Test two; Briar Beauty's Legacy Day Dress

Results; Fail. Didn't velcro down the back and also jumpscared myself again trying. Didn't bother with the shoes since MH and EAH shoes are the exact same

Test three; Namaari

Reults; Partial success. Namaari's clothes were a bit baggy but fit. Her boots, due to Namaari having flat feet and Red having those doll high heel feet, did not fit

Bonus picture of Namaari wearing Red's clothes

Test four; random Barbie clothes (Fashionista line, I believe she was from the first Fashionista series and petite)

Results; Success, though I'm not sure if yellow is her colour. Thoughts?

Test five; G1 Mal

Results; Partial success. Clothes did not fit at all but the boots did fit

Conclusions

Objectively, this doll's quality would be a step down from the G1 Descendants doll quality if not for the dragon Mal I have downstairs, which also has arms in fixed positions. I also do not like how loud her music is. My parents are napping downstairs and I had to hide Red under my pillow every time she went off, because I was genuinely afraid she would wake them. That's how loud she is. Also, I'm skeptical about this doll being thirty dollars retail. EAH dolls were only twenty and far higher quality

If you want clothes for Red, I think petite Fashionista Barbie clothes might be a good bet.

I wish she had a hairbrush

She is not allowed to join my other dolls until that battery is removed

I am happy to have her, don't get me wrong, the multiple jumpscared just put me in a bad mood

[wu-sisyphus-gang]

9 Days of Lancaster: Injury

Oniyuri was a ghost town. 

Ruby took the lead, bouncing up until she stood on horseback and peered out at gray walls. The buildings looked dilapidated, as did the fence now that I thought about it. I checked the map. “That’s strange.” 

“Another destroyed town?” Ruby wondered.

“We should search for survivors.” I stowed the map and took off. 

“Don’t leave me in the dark!” Our blindfolded prisoner shouted. 

I sprinted towards the circle shaped opening in the walls. Ruby made it there first and in a single great leap no normal woman could pull off, she landed antop of the walls. She bounced from there to a watch tower which had no platform to stand on from which one could watch. 

I checked and found nothing. Ruby dropped down, her legs easily taking the thirty foot fall. She lifted the platform in question from where it lay beside the tower on the ground, checking under it. “Anything?” She called out.

“Clear over here.” I moved from the building I’d been checking. “The place seems abandoned.”

“Hey I found something!” Ruby called out to me. She brushed aside leaves where a small sign had been overgrown. “Oniyuri,” she read. “This is it? What happened?” Ruby wondered, her voice coming out small in the courtyard. 

Grimm claw marks on what was left of a door. Shattered windows and broken down walls. 

I didn’t hesitate, it was time to get moving. “Come on, let's push through here.” I mustered, sticking around so much negativity wasn’t going to serve us any. 

My hand rose to my weapon, pulling at the hilt slightly. Nervously. I felt something. I wasn’t alone in it, either. Ruby peered ahead through the scope of Crescent Rose. 

A man in brown and white flipped into the courtyard, landing neatly with a bowed posture. 

The man said nothing but his hands flicked out claw like weapons drawing on either hand. Without a word he blitzed towards us, no, straight towards Ruby, with a manic laugh.

Ruby intercepted him first, lashing out like an insane tornado. The man danced back, giving ground easily.

Ruby snapped a kick out and followed it with a spray of bullets. She twisted and he ducked under the massive swing before raising his arm and stepping inside her guard. A clawed hand lashed out and Ruby had to lean far out of the way to dodge it. She gave a gasp as she did. Put on the defensive, a swift kick from the clawed man forced her back. The man went high but kicked low again, Ruby ate the attack with a grunt. 

The man laughed like he was in hysterics all the while. He whipped out the blades on his forearms, Ruby blocked them with Crescent Rose but didn’t block a jump kick which caught her center of mass. She rolled back but the man had speed to spare, he was able to catch up to her.

He crossed both arms, scissor-slashing at her but she caught the blow against the barrel of her weapon. A high crescent kick lashed out at Ruby followed by a jab. She rotated Crescent Rose to block but the man was within her range and didn’t miss with the brutal shoulder check that flicked her to the ground.

I was there to cover Ruby immediately. The man slid beneath my slash and bounced up at me, landing on the edges of the shield. The man peered down at me with a wide grin. I glared up at the man, and I swung the man back and Ruby hit him hard with Crescent Rose, clipping him.

He launched back through a white wall, cartwheeling through the air. His yellow eyes glowed out at us from the building. Ruby got back to her feet preparing Crescent Rose for a second assault.

“We’re not looking for a fight!” I called out to him. 

Though you’ve found one by attacking Ruby.

“Who are you?” Ruby wondered. 

The man flipped down. “Who I am matters not to you, or- well I am curious about you.” He pointed at me.

“Not interested,” I returned.

“No?” The man continued, he seemed to take it in stride. “Well, I suppose I only really matter to you.” He pointed behind my tank at the backline Ruby. I didn’t so much as take my eyes off the man. 

“Me?” Ruby wondered.

The man broke down laughing. “You really don’t have the slightest clue, do you? Oh how exciting this must be.” That laugh was really getting on my nerves. 

“What do you want?” Ruby demanded.

“Oh the rose has thorns. My little flower, I’m here to whisk you away with me.”

“And what if she doesn’t want to go with you.”

“Well, I’ll take her.” He made it sound so obvious. Like getting through and killing me would be the most straightforward thing in the world. The way he’d danced around us so far… the fight didn’t look promising. 

“Yeah. You'll have to kill me,” I vowed anyways, my shield at the ready and sword poised to strike from behind it.

“ Perfect ,” The man purred.

I blinked and the man was gone. My eyes traced his outline but...

“Jaune!” Ruby called out to me in warning. I felt the danger from behind me. Ruby immediately opened fire, trusting my aura, armor, and shield to see me through. I began to turn around towards the blindingly fast opponent. 

The man had to duck under Ruby’s fire, unable or unwilling to press his attack and eat the bullets with his aura. The man bounced in the air, spinning like a top off my shield. I threw him off. Pressing my attack with a shout.

The man turned it into an elegant flip and kicked Ruby so hard she flew off her feet. I swept my sword at him. I tried to catch him off guard but the man cartwelled under the attack. 

Too telegraphed. 

His heel came down on my head, a cry of pain left my lips before I could stop it followed closely by a second one as I was swiftly side kicked in the face. I fell backwards and our aggressor charged at Ruby again, unrelenting. 

My semblance activated, strumming through me like a cord, I dashed forward and Ruby did too, we scissored him and I spent my semblance now faster than ever, as soon as I got it, really. 

I bunkered behind my shield, waiting out the shockwave Ruby’s speed and my attack had created. When I peeked. Our opponent was still standing. He’d… caught my attack with his tail. A long brown scorpion’s tail which protruded from his lower back and a deep gash in his aura from where Ruby pounced. 

Now she stalked around the outside of a wide circle with him and I in the center, waiting for the right moment to strike like a wolf. 

The man giggled. “Surprise.” He kicked off the ground and then towards me. He kicked me twice; brutal kicks seemed to be the man’s style in conjunction with his claws. 

“What is this about?” Ruby stepped forward. “The WhiteFang? Roman Torchwick?”

“Plastic soldiers and pawns. My heart and body belong only to our goddess.” The scorpion took an arrogant bow. 

“Cinder.” Ruby murmured. Her eyes narrowed up at him. 

The bitch herself.

“Hm. Only in her wildest dreams!” With that the man launched towards us again, kicking off the roof he was on hard enough to splinter it. His tail whipped out at Ruby. She deflected it but a brutal punch knocked her down again. 

I sidestepped the tail twice but not the following kick to the back. I tried to rush him, trying to flank him but the man’s foot colliding with my shield stopped my approach. Against this opponent the shield was just getting in the way. I slid the sword into the shield and slid it off my arm, drawing the massive sword from it. 

My foe was fast enough to get in on me but hopefully with a little range and a little luck...

The blade clicked into place, the simple mechanism snapping into position easily. The blade was enormously heavy compared to the bastard sword I’d been wielding, I gripped it in both hands to steady it. I wasn’t sure I’d be fast enough to catch the man with it, but I’d promised I’d die before I let this creep take Ruby and dammit I would.

I dashed forward but my opponent dashed away from him towards Ruby. He punched her twice with the brutal blades and flicked her into the air. With blinding speed, the man was already where Ruby was going to land, he wound up and comboed a kick to her stomach. 

I could see her aura break in a radial pattern from the foot. 

“Ruby!” I shouted.

The man glanced up at my charge, his eyes widening in surprise for a brief satisfying moment before I caught him center of mass with the broadsword. I started by drawing an ‘x’ in the air and on his body. The glow of my sword stayed where it struck him, holding him in place.

Next I carved a shallow ‘L,’ with two cuts. Low and then rising. I watched him. He was stuck in place still, like he was in butter or stuck in slow motion.

I finished with a tremendous slash all the way through the patterns I had drawn which showed through the air. I cut through the sapphire blue haze and shattered the shapes I carved in the air with a flash. 

I watched a crackle of purple sweep out across his torso from where the sword impacted him. You can't fake that. One hundred pounds of brutal steel impacting him had hurt him. I held Crocea Mors steady in one hand. Steady, easily, even with just the one arm. 

It was light. I swung it casually across his body and back towards neutral, glaring at the man. 

“Jaune!”

“Stay down Ruby!”

I began to charge the next one. 

I watched the man roll across the ground before he stopped, catching himself with the hooked blades. He let out a viscous sound, part snarl, part laugh. He scuttled towards me, low towards the ground but…

I met him in the middle and Ruby shot him in the face. I refused to give ground and allow the lunatic to get any closer to Ruby. Crocea Mors swept forward but was deflected off the man’s right wrist blade. I reversed the blade, bringing it around his body and back down. 

My foe grunted, catching the blade again with both wrists. 

The tail…

I leaned out of the way as the tail lashed through his space. It whipped from over the man’s head towards me but I’d seen it coming. The man was getting predictable. Plus with six feet of metal between us, I was outside his range. I brought my blade down towards the tail and the man reared back, giving ground and watching me warily. 

I didn’t let up. I jumped, raising Crocea Mors over my head in a tremendous arc and brought it down against the man again. The man braced his tail and blades against the attack but three hundred pounds of man and metal bore down on him. I watched as the man’s feet sunk into the cobbled ground, aura sparking from here his tail braced against the blade. 

Believing he saw an opportunity the man rushed me, closing the distance that my long arms and sword provided. I lashed out with a low kick, unable to bring the blade to bear in time. It connected against the side of the man’s knee. I threw my weight into another kick with the other leg, a round kick which impacted the man’s gut.

My jab and follow up brought him the space I needed to bring Crocea Mors around in a low flat arc. It sung through the air with thick satisfying noise, but not nearly as satisfying as the sound the blade made against the man’s aura. 

He rolled back and I chased him.

I need to end this now.

I jumped like I was going to hammer him with another massive overhead blow. He raised his weapons in defense. It was a tomahawk landing and I stepped in and grabbed him out of the empty hop. I tossed him into the ground and where he bounced I pursued. I slid my sword into the ground and brutally shoved the edge into his chest. I tore up the cobblestone street behind me as I did.

I screamed out a battle cry, trying to land a decisive blow. I rushed forward with all my might and thrust Crocea Mors forward. The man slipped to the side, dodging by a fraction of a hair. He followed it with two brutal kicks and three jabs into my chest. Then he sank his hooked gauntlet into my stomach. 

I grunted. It wasn’t so bad. He hit like a fucking pussy. 

I spat up some blood and looked down. 

It was pretty bad. The worst, even. 

“Jaune!”

“What’s the matter?” The man mocked. “Run out of power? Or do you have another one in you?” Tyrian twisted his fist and the blade sank further into my stomach. The tail came around and hovered just before my face. Giggling and wiggling the tail right in front of my mouth before it vanished, the pressure disappearing from me accompanied by an agonized howl. 

“Jaune, oh lord, stay with me!” 

I didn’t. 

pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq

I was, for the record, not tired of waking up with Ruby taking care of me. I was not. I was tired of being shot and stabbed, but not the rest of it. The rest of it was awesome. 

I was in a real bed as opposed to our tent this time. Ruby was in the bed next to me and she stirred slightly in her sleep where she clutched my arm. I sighed looking at her. Fuck she was dangerous. She was just sleeping there with her bangs down over her face and her arms around one of mine. Her lips looked so pink and soft and barely parted. 

I started to sit up. Poking at the bandages and stitches in my chest, I winced a little. She stirred with me, her eyes blinking open as I rose. 

"Don't touch it!" She shouted-whispered as I twirled a sitch and gasped. Oh yeah, none of that analgesic stuff. What was I? A pussy?

I almost passed out from the pain, though. My vision tunneled and I swayed back into the pillow. 

The blades left deep marks which even my armor and aura wouldn't prevent from forming scars. She shoved my hands out of the way and placed her own there instead. “Does it hurt?”

I groaned. Her fingers were cool and my chest felt inflamed. 

I was lucky he hadn't decided to open fire with the weapon point blank. That would have turned my torso to hamburger and I doubt whoever Ruby found to put me back together could handle that much gut-shot. 

Not because they were a bad surgeon. It would have probably just have been super lethal. 

I nodded. “I'm not super comfortable.” I confessed. “What happened?”

“I cut his tail off while you had him, uh, distracted.” Ruby said with some venom. “He ran off but there's no way that he'll be recovering without help and I sent word out once we arrived.”

“And our prisoner?”

She tapped the tips of her pointer fingers together. "I had to let her go. I needed the speed to get you here." She sounded like I was going to be upset with her over it. Over saving my life. 

“Which is?” I wondered.

“Higanbana.” 

“Thank you. Ruby. You saved me again.” 

Silence met me before…”I put you in danger. Didn’t you hear him?”

“I heard him laugh. He was nuts Ruby.”

“He was here for me.”

“So am I.”

“Butt! Stop being sweet for a second and listen to me!” She protested. “He worked for whoever Cinder is actually working for. This is serious business."

"Ruby, these people were always your enemy." She chewed her lip. "That makes them my enemies, too. Plus Cinder's friends are absolutely against us. Nothing has changed except we know one of their faces."

"I suppose���except he didn't work for Cinder. He works for someone else."

"And I don't work for Ozpin. Just you. A different beast is all, Rubes."

"He was a monster." I nodded along. He was, that Tyrian. He could have killed me but he was having too much fun torturing me. 

I was ever so grateful. 

"Let's stop him next time," I decided. 

"Do you really think we can?" Ruby asked. I nodded. He hadn't been invincible. 

"He took us by surprise and we don’t have any real team attacks which use both of our semblances. Speaking of, did you catch his semblance?"

She shook her head. "He never used it. I'd recognize his weapons though. I gave the village a description but…"

If they weren't hunters or had a hunter's mindset they might not really get why that was important. 

"Sounds like you took care of everything."

"Right. So you just rest now. You worked so hard for me. Let me look after you for a bit."

What? Had she missed the last few months of constantly saving my life? Her lips pressed softly against my cheek and then she moved them against my lips and she sighed a little next to me. 

I felt her relax next to me on the bed and wrap her arms around me gently.  I couldn't help but unwind either. Muscles ached and bruises throbbed but I hardly felt either as I slowly let her pull me back down. 

I found my anesthesia when she slipped her tongue into my mouth and one of us moaned softly. She smirked and I knew it must have been me. Her lips turned up against mine. She was having a little fun taking care of me and who was I to take that from her? I chased her tongue back into her mouth and she wrapped her lips around my muscle and sucked gently. I moaned again. It had been a bait. She made me chase after her. 

She pulled back suddenly. “Jaune there’s been something I’ve been meaning to tell you. It’s about my eyes.”

“Okay.” I’d seen them, they were fantastic. “What about them?”

pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq

Have you ever really tried to relax? I mean to squeeze all the relaxation you could out of a time period and just let the people who profess to care about you look after you while you heal and rest and try and figure things out. What an unbelievable nightmare. 

I could not for the life of me sit still. I was going stir-crazy in ‘safe’ Higanbana. I was just supposed to let Ruby handle things and try and focus on just getting better but in the end I found myself pacing the small hotel room and narrow city streets over and over again. 

And Higanbana was for the most part truly safe. It had high walls and guards with good discipline. Some of them even had their aura unlocked. It was maddening. 

My only saving grace was Ruby who had the energy to keep me from being bored out of my skull. She even asked me one early morning with bright eyes and a finger to her lips, “Jaune?”

“Mhm.” I wondered. Her voice was a certain timber that made me want to reach out and grab her.

“Can we go on a date?” She finished. She could have asked me to stab myself with that tone and expression and I would have. A date, though?

A date. 

A date. Of course. We were a couple after all. She would want that kind of thing. But what would that kind of thing look like?

It looked like me listening to her gush about my semblance and weapons over ice cream which she fed me, because I was hurt. 

“Your semblance is actually wild Jaune. Really.”

“Really, really?” I asked.

“Just imagine how you can force your enemy into some of your traps.”

“My traps?”

“Please, it’s how you fight. You make people think they’re safe and then you surprise them. That was true even before you unlocked your semblance.” 

“I do?” 

“You play mind games and think about it this way. The moment you start charging your semblance your opponent is in disadvantage. If they let you charge it, then you’re winning. If they approach you to stop you from charging it, then they're still playing your game and you’re still winning.”

“Huh. I think I have to stand still to charge it.”

“Even so you can force the enemy to approach you or you’ll get better kill and movement options.” She nodded with her words and glowed as we walked through a park together. 

She had loved the idea of enlightening the guards with aura and had taken to doing three or so a day while I healed. I wanted to step in and do more but she shut me down.

We found a small place which sold these little treats with sherbert in them. Ruby chirpily ordered for both of us while I just watched her move and talk.  

We took a rest together, over the next few days it was some of my favorite times, just strolling through the Animatic courtyards and gardens in public places. 

“Plus you are always forcing the enemy to approach you or you’ll be even harder to deal with. You don’t need a gun if you can fight like that either. Though…”

“I don’t like guns.”

“You have hers still.” I looked down. I still had Viriscient’s gun. I pulled it from a belt and handed it to her. 

“Here. You take it,” I said. 

“Why me?”

“You’ll get more out of a sidearm than I will.” I returned with a shrug. 

“Still…” she took it anyway and looked at it both ways before flicking it apart. She quickly took a look at the internal mechanisms and hardly turned her nose up at it. “It is nice… is it really okay to use it? I mean it was a bandit’s.”

“If it's by you then it's not a bandit’s anymore.” I shrugged. “You could always take it apart and see how it works.

“I think I’ll keep it then.” She smirked. “Also, you're implying I can’t tell how it works.” 

“You’re right I should know better.” I earned a quick cold kiss for that, ice cream still on her ruby lips. 

pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq