#and it looks so good??? it just looks like a perfect replica of the screen?????

[time-like-tears-in-rain]

My coat is here my coat is here my coat is here my coat is here MY COAT IS HERE

[redflagshipwriter]

Nest Swap 4 progress

Now with 200% more bat!

masterpost

“Alright, have a good day.” Tim handed the clipboard back to a stone-faced delivery guy and took the package from Miss Fox back to his technology lair. He got a glass of water on the way down and then went about reproducing the experiment that Tam asked for.

She wouldn't give him details. But from the instructions and reported results, Tim was pretty sure that some employee had misrepresented their process. To what end, he didn't know. He was just the science guy, not a detective guy.

Although if he had to guess he'd say that they had switched out a needed chemical to hide that the supply was lower than recorded.

But whatever. That wasn't his business.

Tim happily went about science, recreating a corrosive liquid that would supposedly eat through reinforced metal. He had to make the Wayne tech protective coating for the metal as well to do the experiment properly. When he finished that he carefully dipped metal sheets in it and set them to drip dry. Then he turned back to the acid project.

Supposedly, the acid had been a failure. Tim thought it should work. Apparently Tam did, too.

The screens around the room all went black. He wasn't even using them but it was a hard thing to miss in your peripheral vision.

Tim groaned. “What now?” He asked the room. He clanged a piece of metal to the tabletop. “I am trying to finish this.”

Had he tripped some kind of security protection? Maybe they had all gone to sleep without getting a password at spaced intervals?

To be perfectly clear, Tim did not expect any kind of response.

Therefore he was startled halfway out of his skin when a female laugh came barrelling out of the speakers of the largest mounted screen.

He crossed his arms in a sulk.

“Tim?” She asked, after she caught her breath. “You're tiny.”

His face was catastrophically cranky: he could see it reflected back in the black screen. It was a perfect replica of Janet Drake discovering after she had formatted her latest paper in Chicago Style that the publication required the savagery of MLA formatting.

She laughed again. It ended with a hiccup.

‘Whoever this is, she can see me. She must be someone who knows me if I gave her that kind of access.’

“I'm not sure we're friends,” Tim announced, because it was time to face the facts: these people all knew a version of him, and that Tim was bigger. At least like, three inches. “I'm aware that I am small. I am working on it.” He glowered at the computer she seemed to be using.

It would take what, two years top for a major growth spurt? They could just chew bubblegum until then.

“Is that what you're doing now?”

Tim sighed. “No, I'm doing something for Tam,” he admitted. He scrubbed at his face with a hand. “Probably a good time for a break.” He started to tidy up.

“Yeah, so, I guess I can tell Dick that you haven't been kidnapped by lions or whatever it is he's talking about,” the lady said. The line turned to static for a second, then back just as quickly. “You, uh, need some help?”

“Absolutely not.” Tim shook his head in a sharp, decisive Jack Drake movement. “I don't need to be babied.”

“...I can see why you think you're in danger of it.” She snorted again. “Unblock Dick, please, he's got delicate feelings and I think we both have plans for tonight that don't involve him scaling your walls to find a way in.”

“....I'll unblock him,” Tim took the L gracefully. “I appreciate your silence on this matter.”

She snorted again. “Sorry.” She didn't sound very sorry. “It's just- your little businessman voice is so funny. I'm sorry, Tim.”

He looked up at the ceiling for patience.

“Oracle out.”

All the screens returned to normal. Tim let out a big long sigh and went back upstairs, taking his empty water class with him. At least he had a name, right? Oracle. He'd gotten a call from Oracle.

He mentally arranged the facts as he trudged up the stairs.

Fact one: he had replaced a Tim, who was Tim Drake-Wayne. (Upsetting information).

Drake-Wayne had to be fundamentally the same Tim as he was, given that both Tam and Oracle had immediately recognized him.

Fact two: Tim D-W was a vigilante.

Fact three: That was really cool.

Tim reached the top and made a mental note to enroll in some martial arts classes when he got back home. If he had potential to fight crime, of course he was going to do that. He unblocked Dick: oh no, Dick Wayne. He'd blocked Robin. He felt mortified. It was so obvious in retrospect. He put the phone down on the table, stomach twisting in social agony.

The phone immediately lit up with messages.

Well. Robin should be less annoying, if he didn't wanna get blocked.

He clambered onto the counter to search through for anything that would make a good lunch.

“... I'm terrible,” Tim complained. He stuck his head fully into the cupboard as if there might be something good at the back. “This sucks!”

Alright. Something had to be done. Tim decisively climbed down, using an open drawer as a step. He shut it with his heels and then went in search of a wallet. He needed a credit card and to find a delivery service.

He was going to act on faith that big Tim D-W wasn't going to ruin his life, even though he was a loser. Tim was doing a great job keeping Tim D-W’s life afloat. That merited some payment.

He converted that payment into a huge order to a grocery delivery service. He referenced Tam’s package to get the address.

The order was simple: fruits, breakfast meat, lots of bakery bread, and sandwich fillings. He was going to have tuna salad with cucumber and lettuce. He was going to learn to make egg salad. Optimistically, he even added melty cheese to the order and a can of tomato soup mix: grilled cheese couldn't be that hard, right?

He rounded off the order with lots of individually packaged drinks: milk and juice boxes, cans of grape Zesti, and hot cocoa powder.

"…This is so exciting,” Tim said to his empty apartment. His. In a very real and meaningful way, it was his apartment. He was totally unsupervised. Neat!

The phone buzzed again. When he picked it up it said “Jason.”

Tim blue screened. Tim dropped the credit card with a clatter. It disappeared under the table and he didn't even think to look for it.

Jason. Omigod, Jason. Jason was a person who existed. He'd forgotten.

All the pieces came together in a beautiful flash of light. He wasn't in a troubled huge age-difference relationship with Bruce (21 year difference) or Dick (9 year difference) . He'd gotten married to Jason Wayne, the kid that Bruce had brought home like a day ago according to the Gotham Gazette. (3 year difference: normal.)

The phone was still ringing. Tim picked it up with numb fingers. “Hello?”

“Hey, Timbers,” said a male voice. It was low, rough, and impatient. “You freaked Dickiebird out and he's been squawking at me all day. Tell me how many pieces you're in.”

Tim looked down at his body. “Just the one,” he said, voice coming out breathy. It felt like his being was floating outside his body. Wow. This was his boy- no, husband? Holy moly. He couldn't cope with that, he had to stick with boyfriend. He bit his lip. He had to make a good impression.

“...You sound about 10 years old there,” Jason said. He didn't hide his amusement. “You been huffing helium, babybird?”

Tim went bright red at the pet name. Painfully red. His face was on fire.

Jason took his silence as a response. “Alright, alright, keep your clothes on. You must be sick as fuck, poor thing. No wonder you didn't come out to play last night.”

Tim slapped his hands on his face and tried not to hyperventilate.

“I wasn't calling for Dick, don't get it twisted.” Jason cleared his throat, tone a little odd. “I picked up on something - I think one of my ongoing cases dips into your patrol area. You gonna come out on patrol tonight?”

“...No,” Tim said. There was no way that would go well. He didn't know martial arts yet.

Jason cursed, but he didn't sound mad about it. “Fair enough,” he muttered. “Uh, think you could do some surveillance for me?”

Tim nodded. Then he felt dumb and cleared his throat. “Yeah.”

…He felt even dumber. What should he say? This was his boyfriend. The stakes were so high. He had never wanted anyone to like him more.

Jason rattled off an address. It, like everything Jason had said, was going to live inside Tim’s head forever in perfect clarity. “Thanks,” he added after, a bit begrudgingly. “This guy's real fucking sick, been making human sausage.”

Tim… wasn't sure exactly what that meant, but it sounded really bad. “I'll do my best,” he promised.

“Yeah…” Jason trailed off. “Maybe you should take a nap, some meds. That's a terrible hoarse throat. Don't kick your own ass on my account, okay?”

“Okay,” Tim helplessly echoed, and hung up. He sat in silence for a solid minute afterwards.

[bmbochangetales]

Melanie has been busy for the past few months doing everything except take care of herself. She finally decided to schedule a doctor appointment and to get a total check up. She was almost done when the nurse said she needed a breast exam as it had been years. She recommended a nearby clinic or she heard a local pharmacy had a special machine that offered privacy but a full exam via machine.

Melanie went a few days later to the pharmacy and the male pharmacist told her it was so new and they would get the results emailed to her a day later.

He showed her to a cushioned bench with a strange metal arm with two plastic cups to attach to the breasts. Once he left she could remove her shirt and attach the cups around her mammaries following the instructions on a video and they would examine them. He told her an attendant would be outside the door if she needed anything.

Melanie waited for the door to click and took a few deep breaths before taking her shirt off. Her a cups were nothing the attendant would care to oogle at. She followed the instructions on the video and the clear cups attached. They looked clearly made to hold much larger breasts but it securely attached and beeped as an all clear to begin.

She watched the screen as it explained that it was examining for any lumps or abnormalities and was enjoying the massaging feelings for a good 5 minutes. It told her the prognosis was looking all clear and they just needed to gather some data for research purposes, did she consent to help collect additional data. She tapped the screen which then seem to move back out of reach.

The machine began sucking even harder and she heard a lot of beeping as they analyzed whatever it was looking for. After a few moments the screen showed her breasts on the screen. A perfect replica.

“Wow that’s amazing technology” she said to the empty room.

The machine looked like it was running some data when a robotic voice announced its findings.

Breast size is below average. Taking brain matter for mammary enlargement.

“Hey. What the hell?” The machine made a loud suction noise to answer Melanie. Her tiny bumps were sucked and pulled on like a vacuum while her head felt a lot pressure followed by a light headed feeling.

Boob size increased

Melanie took a few seconds to snap out of the weird feeling. She looked down at new nearly c cups. The machine had grown her boobs. Something was wrong. She tried to take it off of her chest. This was not what she came here for. She tried to yank but in the struggle she accidentally hit the button to activate the machine again.

Boob size is too small. Taking brain matter for mammary enlargement.

The machine whistled again. The suction felt even better this time. It forced Melanie to stop her struggle and she let out a mix of a moan and whine as the sucking and pulling started again. The sharp pain in her head happened again followed but a feeling of lightness again. As the machine quieted down she heard the voice.

Boobie sized increased.

Melani never had such big boobies before! The machine was doing something totally weird. It had taken her tiny a cups and now she had full DD cups! They were so big and round now. She should really get this machine off. But like she could still think and stuff. So like maybe if she hit the button one more time it would let her go after it sucked on her new big boobies. They were big but not like huge or anything. She tapped the button on the machine.

Boobies are not big enough. Taking brain matter for mammary enlargement.

The machine became once again and Melani was actually starting to enjoy it a lot. The sharp pain hurt but the feeling of getting more empty headed was so good. The noisy loud machine was making her boobies super big and they bounced. The cups were almost full. Melani loved seeing the big fat boobies getting bigger. It quieted down too soon and the machine played out the message.

Tit sized increased.

Melani looked at her tits. She loved that word. She got big HHH cup tits now. This machine was super fun! but could it like keep going? Cause big tits are so hot but like bigger is better in cock, tits, and bank accounts. Melani giggled as she tapped the button again to make the super great machine start working again.

Tits are not big enough. Taking brain matter for Mammary enlargement.

There wasn't a lot left for the machine to take but it pulled out anything it could. Meloni probably couldn't pass high school, maybe even middle school if she tried. She no longer cared about the job that kept her so busy. She just loved her big fat tits and how sexy they made her look. Her empty head made her happy because it meant she had enormous bouncy tiddies.

Tiddie sized increased.

Meloni looked down. She wouldn't be able to see her feet or wear normal shirts and she didn't care. She had enormous fat tiddies and she was a sexy brainless bimbo. Maybe the machine could help her even more.

“Guh! Can like ya go even bigger funny machine?” JJJ cups should have been enough but Meloni wanted more. She tapped the button super fast many times.

Big fat tiddies requested. Bimbo brain exchange for ultimate mammary expansion now in progress. Prepare for Tiddyslutification.

The enlarged tits began flowing out of the cups that could hardly hold more than nipples. The The cups were much too small now as they sucked out any crumbs of intelligence and turned Melanie into tit obsessed idiot. If it wasn’t about boobs, she wouldn’t be interested. MMMM cup bug fat tiddies bounces down as the machine unlatched.

Hello Melons Tiddyslut! We are glad we could adjust your tiddies. Please enjoy your big fat tiddies and your stupid bimbo brain. You are a good Tiddyslut!

Stupid girlish giggles at the silly fun machines sillly words! Melon’s tiddies were obnoxious and huge, and jutting out bouncing all over the place. Two oversized watermelons on her chest. She was so happy everyone could see her fat sexy tiddies. She happily walked to the door and out with nothing on. Why hide them? In fact she needed to get a new camera to share them with everyone.

Her data uploaded to the research server while her video surveillance was uploaded to several porn and fetish sites. The machine sat waiting for its next victim. It wouldn’t be long before Melons Tiddyslut was a household name. The expansion community was going to keep on growing.

[oleander-nin]

Horrortober Day 12- Stalker(Yandere Rise Donnie x Reader)

A/N, not important: Sorry it's short. I just... Couldn't. Any criticism is welcome, constructive or not. This is supposed to be a gender neutral reader, so if I screwed up somewhere, please tell me.

-Ollie

CW: stalking, recording without permission, planned drugging, planned kidnapping, dark themes, yandere themes

Words: 718

Summary: It's time to take you home

Donnie's gaze flits over the many screens, a deep scowl on his face. He couldn't believe you were up this late again, despite his advice earlier. You promised you'd get sleep. He had the texts open, looking at them before looking back at you across the cameras he had planted in your room so long ago. You were up again, a pencil in your hand with the other knotted in your hair and homework on your desk. Why hadn’t you come to him if it was giving you this much trouble? He would have done it for you in mere moments. It was an insult to him to not let him help.

Donnie’s frown deepens as he leans back in his chair, trying to decide how to move forward. You clearly needed his support, needed a guiding hand to set you straight. He was completely willing to do that for you, to set you a schedule and hold you to it. He would do anything for you. Gosh, he would love to do everything for you.

He continues to watch the screen, analyzing every movement and burning it into his retinas. He could take you home. Your area in his lab was set up, the blankets and pillows in the corner to your liking. He knew this because it was an exact replica of the ‘nest’ you had in childhood, thanks to the pictures Donnie salvaged off of your old phone. He had gotten everything perfect for you. A cabinet in the kitchen was full of your favorite snacks, the fridge stocked with food that could be turned to meals of your taste, and Donnie’s own room was set to match the temperature of yours. Everything was ready, all he needed now was you.

Donnie wasn’t sure why he had held out for so long. Maybe it was because you seemed so happy the other day when he texted you, or when you hugged him for a few seconds longer than normal after he gave you your new phone. He knew the adjustment to your new life with him would be difficult, and he wasn’t fully ready to give up seeing you smile so brightly at him just yet.

But seeing you in your room, textbook open at three in the morning with tears in your eyes? It broke his heart in two. You’d never need to study like that again once he took you. Your life would be one of comfort and love. He’d dedicate every hour to you, making sure you were as happy as you could be. Sure, you wouldn’t have your freedom anymore. He couldn’t risk you going outside and getting hurt after all, but that is all a necessary sacrifice. You were too precious to be cast into the world, to hold a job and be harassed by life itself. You were something to be treasured, something to be spoiled and kept safe. He didn’t care he would be keeping you in a box that you would never leave, as long as you were safe and by his side.

He would die without you. He would wither up and collapse, his own heart breaking. Donnie knew he was being dramatic, but he felt his metaphor to be true. Without you, he would be nothing, just as you were nothing without him. Donnie looks back at the screen, watching your head loll forwards as you fight the sleep your body and mind so desperately needed. From the angle of the camera, he could just slightly see the bags under your eyes. They had grown since you last saw him, and his heart panged with worry. That wasn’t good.

Donnie scowls, standing up and leaving his desk for a moment. He crosses his lab and enters the room, searching his drawers for the small pill bottle of Ambien he kept in them. He needed to be prepared for when you arrived, just in case you were awake and still struggling. He counts the necessary pills for your weight and sets them on the desk, prepared to force you to take them if needed. Once the small gift he had for you was set up, Donnie returns to the heart of his lab, grabbing his tech bō and spider-shell.

It was time to bring you home.

[hoe4hotchner]

May I please request an imagine where the reader (female) introduces her boyfriend Hotch to the Resident Evil series, especially by cosplaying as various characters?

Raccoon City | [A.H]

Pairing: Aaron Hotchner x fem!reader CW: Fluff, despite trying to do research I still have no knowledge of the game. WC: 0.5k

You had been planning this for a while - a surprise for Hotch after a particularly long week of work. He needed a distraction, something to pull him away from the constant pressure of the BAU, and you had just the thing in mind: introducing him to one of your favorite video game series, Resident Evil. But it wasn’t going to be just any introduction. You decided to make it special by cosplaying as one of the strongest, most badass characters in the series.

Hotch sat on the couch, already looking intrigued when you mentioned the game earlier. He wasn’t one for video games, but he respected your interests and was open to anything that might help him relax.

You disappeared into the bedroom for a few minutes, changing into the outfit you’d carefully pieced together: a sky-blue tube top, black mini-skirt, combat boots, and fingerless gloves. To complete the look, you strapped a plastic replica of Jill Valentine’s gun holster around your leg and even added the S.T.A.R.S. badge to your arm. You checked yourself in the mirror once, adjusting your ponytail and the cap to make sure it was perfect before stepping out.

As soon as you walked into the living room, Hotch’s eyes widened slightly, his posture straightening. He took in the sight of you. A small smile tugged at his lips, and he leaned back, his arms crossing over his chest as he admired your dedication.

“Well,” he began, his voice low and amused, “this is certainly a unique way to introduce me to a video game.”

You gave him a playful smirk, striking a pose just like Jill would, standing strong and confident with your hand on your hip. “I thought you might appreciate a little bit of immersion.”

Hotch chuckled, but there was a spark of genuine appreciation in his eyes. “I have to admit, it’s working. You look incredible.”

You walked over to him, handing him the controller as you settled beside him. “Okay, so here’s the deal,” you began, your tone more serious now as you explained the game’s premise. “You’re about to enter Raccoon City, a town infested with zombies and other terrifying creatures. Jill Valentine - me - has to survive and stop Umbrella’s bioweapons from spreading.”

Hotch raised a brow, glancing at you in your attire. “And you just happen to look this good while doing it?”

“Of course,” you teased, leaning in closer. “Jill’s a pro. Nothing phases her. Plus, I thought you might need a little encouragement to stick with it.”

He smiled, his thumb brushing against the controller as he adjusted it in his hands. “I think I’ll manage just fine. As long as you’re guiding me.”

The evening went on, the two of you alternating between playing and laughing as you coached Hotch through the game. But you noticed how, every so often, his gaze would drift away from the screen to take you in, his appreciation for your dedication clear. It wasn’t long before Hotch paused the game, setting the controller down.

“You know,” he began, his voice soft but intense as he looked at you, “I’m starting to think this game isn’t the only thing you’re trying to distract me with.”

You grinned, tilting your head as you leaned closer to him. “Maybe… but is it working?”

Hotch reached out, his hand resting on your knee, his thumb tracing soft circles over the fabric of your mini-skirt. “Oh, it’s definitely working.”

[morganupstead]

Some first thoughts of Bridgerton season 3???

I will have more thoughtful convos but there’s are the things I can’t get over.

1. Season 3 Colin is a pirate I don’t know why I don’t make the rules it just is

2. I absolutely love Francesca. LOVE LOVE LOVE HER SO MUCH. Not sure how I feel about the 2 suitors she has (I haven’t read the books so i don’t have that knowledge)

3. The Mondrich’s are so underrated and I love they’re getting more screen time. Especially Alice she is such a incredible woman.

4. I knew it was never gonna work but I liked Lord Debling. While it lasted it was endearing.

5. So far…. Penelope’s best outfit has been the green number she enters the ball in in episode 1. SHE LOOKS ETHEREAL AND PERFECT SND I WANT A REPLICA FOR MYSELF.

6. Cressida Cowper frustrates the hell out of me. She has one redeeming moment only to throw it all away the next and Eloise is still trying to help her to no avail UGH. I want her to redeem herself but I don’t know it will happen.

3. Kanthony is as perfect and lovely as I’d imagined and I have no notes so far. I love them.

4. I need to know why Lady Danbury doesn’t approve of her brother, bc right now I’m vibing with this whole Violet thing but what I don’t know might be really important character development 🙃

5. Benedict Bridgerton continues to be hot. Don’t understand how but he defies all logic for this show and is so attractive. I’m intrigued about his relationship with the blonde widow (can’t remember her name)

6. Colin Bridgerton does not get to turn Penelope Featherington’s life upside down and then just propose. Boy needs to do way more than that to get on Lady Whisteldown’s good graces.

7. I hope to god Eloise and Pen find their way back to each other bc I can’t stand it anymore i miss them so much.

There so much but at the same time there’s not enough and I need more

[ask-the-totally-real-peppino]

(Hey just gonna call myself a shy theorist to differentiate from the other anons)

So based on what we currently know of Pep's possible past and the newly added content warnings, here's my theory. (That might as well be it's own story. I did not realize that I would write this much. Feel free to idk screen shot or copy this ask and put it under a read more)

So, Bruno, he's an anxious Italian man who runs his own pizzeria with his spouse. He's pretty content with life, his business is doing okay and he's in a pretty good relationship. Life was good.

Then came Pizza Head.

So Pizza Head comes and he goes on about striking a deal or whatever to get the place for himself. Bruno refuses, it's their passion. It's both of their dreams to own and run a pizzeria. They would never do it.

Pizza Head (to everyones surprise) leaves.

And for a while nothing much happens, except one day his spouse goes missing.

He's just straight up panicking, there's no note, no anything. Why would they leave him?

Days, weeks, maybe even months pass, but even after the authorities are called and he's spent many long hours searching, he couldn't find them.

His thoughts at that point are... well let's just say they're not exactly good. Part of him blames himself for it. The other part suspects Pizza Head, but it's not like he can find him.

His pizzeria is pretty much in shambles, he hasn't been taking care of himself, and he's... close to giving up.

So perfect time for Pizza Head to come right back.

He makes a different deal. Tells Bruno that he knows where his spouse is and would lead him exactly to where they are only if Bruno gives him his pizzeria.

He agrees.

He goes to this strange tower with him. Up an elevator. To find... an exact replica of his pizzeria in this tower?

At that point he's uneasy, but still reluctantly follows him into the pizzeria.

He sees their silhouette and runs to them.

Only to realize a bit too late that he's been tricked. Lied to.

They've been dead this whole time.

And he's too shocked with grief to realize what happens next.

Pizza Head kills him.

...

Well, he can't say it wasn't worth it. The business was pretty good while it lasted, but there's competition.

Some other Italian guy opened up a place close to his tower.

And maybe you're asking why he doesn't just do the same thing? Maybe even just kill the guy, no giant lazer required.

Look, doing the same thing to this guy would be pretty boring.

So he decides to have some fun.

Besides, he needs a use for that body and that whole pizzeria in the fourth floor.

They surprisingly have a lot in common. Maybe he can play around with that.

Good thing most of his body's intact.

(So yeah Pizza Head makes a copy of Peppino using Bruno's body as a base of sorts, which explains the memories and stuff)

(So Pep is mostly Bruno's body with a mix of different animals' DNA, mostly because he kinda ran out of stuff and had to substitute a bit.)

(Everything else in his brain was taught to him, the backwards speech is there mostly as a precaution because if the clone somehow has the original's memories then he'll be in huge trouble, so making him unable to be understood would keep him from telling, plus the added bonus of backwards speech being creepy in general helps in making him even scarier.)

(Oough, that's so sad!!! Loosing everything he's got and then some!!!

Once again, I do not confirm or deny anything, but oh boy, you guys are so talented with these!!

Sorry I don't have much to add or doodles this time, but thank you for sharing!!!)

[poorlyplannedmemorial]

HES DONE. NEVER BACK DOWN NEVER WHAT?.???

Ramble under the cut

THIS. WAS. SO FUCKING HARD

i enjoy having the skill to make a replica though this was very good practice . It does not look perfect but it’s not exactly supposed to, it’s honestly close enough and I’m happy

I still have a lot to do (mouth presets, hand presets) and actually rigging the model in Adobe Animate, but my modern copy is completely fucked (When I launch it, my mouse flickers and the Home Screen is completely blank. If I try to click on “new project” it doesn’t let me open it at all, I’ve gotten it to work once with major difficulties though. If anyone can help me w this problem I’d be SO grateful 💪💪)

Until then I’ll likely be using an out of date version which is less than ideal but it’s what I’ve got for now

Overall I’d say this was a good project. I draw with my mouse so it was a lot harder than with a screen or a pen but Im very satisfied. I accidentally pulled an all nighter and am running on two cups of coffee though so 💀

More to come, mostly just goofing around

[weirdmarioenemies]

Name: Hoo-Bot (conjectural title)

Debut: Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga

Can you believe a robot this wonderful does NOT have a name as far as I can find? Can you believe it does not even have any documentation on the Super Mario Wiki? For the purpose of this post, I will be referring to it as Hoo-Bot, because I think that is a cute and fitting name.

These mechanical marvels appear exclusively in Woohoo Hooniversity, where they are basically just glorified signposts, but emphasis on the “glorified”, because how glorious indeed! The professors have all either fled or turned into Laser Snifits, but the stalwart robots remain, here to educate any visitors about the properties of various blocks. With the dark screen faces and yellow outer shells, I am inclined to believe that these robots are made using the very same technology as the Beanbean Kingdom’s blocks!

They are in fact even blockier in the remake! It’s like there was a Woohoo Hooniversity Robot Lore Enthusiast on the team, who advised that they slightly redesign the robot to make the implication more apparent. No, it was not me. I wish it was me.

This robot here is in the wonderful room that showcases replica blocks from Mario history, though interestingly, this robot is also on a sort of pedestal, as if it is an exhibit itself! Even weirder, this one was NOT present in the original game, but the pedestal is still there! Talking to it will just prompt it to explain that the blocks are merely prototypes and do not grant any coins, which is kind of these robots’ catchphrase, since they say it all the time. I bet you say that about ALL the blocks, don’t you, Hoo-Bot?~

I really love Hoo-Bot’s design so much, I am such a sucker for a Cute ‘N’ Simple Robot, and this does a perfect job of that! You may have noticed by now that, uh, we only have images of it facing directly at the camera, and that is because that is the only way it is seen. Oh well! It is still good. I like that it is shaped kind of like a lamp, with that sort of base, and I like whatever that red and yellow chest thing is! Maybe it is lights, maybe it is a gear connected to the arms, I do not know. But I like it!

Hm. As much as I love this thing, there is really not much to work with. Uh. Look at this! It can Blink in the remake. I do that! I bet you do that, too!

Here it is pogging. Thank you

[tenebraevesper]

Sonic Cyber Revolution, Entry 68: A Single Flower Petal

''A single piece of flower petal is swaying by my side right now. 'It was an erroneous love,' I'd not want to think that way.''

– Hitohira no Hanabira (A Single Flower Petal) by Stereopony (Bleach)

xXxXxXx

Amy swung the Piko Piko Hammer, forcing Starline to defend himself. He had the Power Core active, but what use was it when he was dealing with a pink hedgehog who could knock down robots with her sheer strength alone, no power-ups required. He backed away, startled when he saw the crack in the ground just where he was a moment ago.

This is not good… I need to get Surge and Kit and escape, or else I'll end up dead.

Starline switched from Power to Fly, getting out of Amy's range, but she ran up to Minami, who lowered her hands to launch her up, leaving Starline baffled. He quickly switched from Fly to Speed, managing to dodge Amy's attack just before she could land a hit on him. The purple and blue blur rushed past them, with Minami and Amy feeling displeased that he got away.

Meanwhile, Starline opened a holographic screen, pressing a button on it that allowed him to enter the AR Field, as well as pulling Surge and Kit right into it. The AR Field itself looked like a replica of the street he was standing on, but he couldn't interact at all with any humans or ARNavs that passed through it, rendering them invisible to any onlookers.

That's when he allowed himself to breathe in relief, pressing his hand against his chest and feeling his heart pounding. Still alive… I'm still alive…

He then rushed down the street, trying to find Surge and Kit. It appeared that both had already reunited at the overpass, and to Starline's dismay, both of them, Surge in particular, were furious. Starline realized that he was in danger, but before he could escape, Surge grabbed him by the collar and slammed him into the wall.

''You have a lot to explain, Doc!'' Surge growled, leaving Starline shaking in fear. ''You told me and Kit that we were created to surpass Sonic and Tails! If that's so, why couldn't we beat them?!''

''T-There are s-several reasons…'' Starline said, feeling an electric charge through his body, leaving him crying out in pain. ''Y-You've never been in a battle like this. Even with the simulations, I couldn't replicate the same experience- agh!''

Starline was once again rammed into the wall by Surge, who left him to slide down on the ground. The platypus was dazed, searing pain spreading through his body, while Surge just pressed her fist into her palm as she glared at him, electricity once again crackling around her.

''So, you're saying that we're weaker than Sonic and his friends…'' Surge growled.

''Not weaker…'' Starline grumbled, trying to get up. ''You're just… less experienced.''

Surge looked like she was about to clock him in the beak, but Kit stepped out. ''You have mentioned in one of your video logs that Team Neos had been on several adventures at this point.''

''Indeed. The most recent major adventure that I have witnessed was their battle against Perfect Chaos. While they needed the Chaos Emeralds to win, they have still managed to defeat a group of well-crafted E-100 Series robots, various other Badniks, handle Dr. Eggman's Enforcers, Ferra and Metal Sonic, gather the Chaos Emeralds and fight Chaos on almost even ground in all of his forms. Not to mention the fact that they have access to Chaos Surge, which significantly powers them up,'' Starline replied, humming in thought. ''Perhaps, I should've put you through a similar situation…''

''No!'' Both Starline and Kit were stunned by Surge's cry of protest. She clenched her fists, giving both of them a glare, gritting her teeth. ''I've had enough of them! No more experiments, no more simulations! Instead, Kit and I will do what we want!'' Starline was taken aback, but Kit nodded in firm determination. He wasn't going to let Surge down, no matter what. Surge then stepped towards Starline, pointing her finger at him. ''As for your Doc, if I ever see you again, I'll fry you until only your skeleton is left!''

Starline backed away, staring at Surge as she turned on her heel and left the AR Field, Kit following her closely. Starline just stared, not realizing just how shallow his breaths were. He was still distressed, but that may have been because of just how close he was coming to dying. However, now that Surge and Kit were gone, he was left all alone within the AR Field. This is when he finally allowed himself to breathe normally.

His plan was completely shattered, but he survived. He was still alive. Starline inhaled deeply, combing through his hair as he tried to calm himself down.

''P-Perhaps, the Doctor was right… I shouldn't repeat the same mistakes…'' Starline shook his head, clenching his fists. ''What am I talking about?! I won't repeat my mistakes! As a matter of fact, this is the most desirable outcome given the circumstances. Surge and Kit still hate Sonic and Tails, meaning that they will continue fight them.'' Starline smirked, the sinister smile spreading across his beak. ''Once they gather enough experience, they will defeat them, and even if they refuse to work with me, I will find a way to take control over them.''

xXx

''So, that's Surge and Kit's deal,'' Sonic said, him, Tails and Amy having just listened to an explanation about Surge and Kit's origins from Lucas, Warren and Minami. They were currently sitting at a small outdoor café in Westoru, talking about what had happened.

''What Starline did is really messed up,'' Tails commented.

''What should we do with them? What if they hurt innocent people?'' Amy asked worriedly.

''I don't think they will go after innocent people,'' Lucas said, taking note of the surprised looks everyone gave him, save for Sonic.

''Surge had told me that she wants to burn down the everyone and everyone, but going by your response, you already know that she won't take that path,'' Sonic said, leaning back in his seat as he took a sip of the soda.

''Surge and Kit have been programmed to defeat and replace you and Tails, so they will mainly focus on that. In addition, I believe that they are capable of change, but even then, it won't be easy,'' Lucas explained. ''I suppose that we could talk to them, but…''

''I don't think Sonic nor Tails should talk to Surge and Kit,'' Amy suddenly said, gazing at the two. ''If you talk to them, they'll only get more agitated. I think someone else should talk to them.''

''Let me guess, you'll volunteer yourself to talk to them,'' Sonic said in a knowing tone. He had already expected that Amy would want to do that. She was the type of person who believed that if people opened their heart, even a little, it would allow for finding a solution to whatever problem they had. She was kind and compassionate, knowing the right thing to say, and Sonic was happy to haver her as his friend, even if he couldn't share in her enthusiasm, since he wasn't the type to speak his mind so easily.

''You better believe it!'' Amy said, giving him a confident wink. ''I'm sure that if I and Minami talk to them, we would come to some kind of solution for this situation.''

''Surge and Kit at this point wouldn't trust anyone but themselves, so it won't be easy,'' Warren noted, with Minami just giving him a dismissive wave, before giving him a confident look that mirrored Amy's.

''That's what makes it a challenge,'' Minami said, putting her hands together and crossing her middle and index finger, with Amy performing the same hand seal. ''Don't forget, you are talking to the people who mastered the art of Talk no Jutsu.''

Both Warren and Lucas gave her an awkward smile, while Sonic and Tails remained slightly confused. Warren then added, ''I don't know if I should be impressed or afraid.''

Minami and Amy exchanged glances, both giggling softly.

xXx

''What should we do now, Surge?'' Kit asked, having finished replenishing filling up his Hydro Pack with water at the water fountain in a park in Westoru. Surge was sitting on a nearby bench, still looking frustrated. Sure, they had abandoned Starline, but they were now on their own. They could return to Egg Base Sigma and kick Starline out, but neither of them wanted to return to their awful place. They were also aware of Starline's previous base in Souto, and since the platypus wasn't using it, they could take over it as their own base. That was obviously one solution, but it wasn't what they needed.

Surge knew that if she wanted some peace of mind, she would have to confront Sonic again and win on her own terms. Unfortunately, Starline's words echoed in her mind, reminding her of the fact that she was still quite inexperienced, and that Sonic had also access to Chaos Surge, so even if she overpowered him on her own, he could easily use that power to defeat her again. The thought of her being unable to defeat Sonic at all enraged her, making her realize she'd be trapped in an endless cycle if she didn't figure something out. But, what was she supposed to do?

''Surge?'' Kit stared at Surge with concern. Even though he knew he had been programmed by Starline to serve Surge's every whim, he was genuinely worried about her and wanted to make her happy. Surge was all he had and he felt lost in this wide world without her. He wanted to be by her side no matter what. He gave her a determined look. ''Whatever you want me to do, I'll do it. That way, you'll be happy.''

Surge looked up at him, her mouth opening a little as if she was about to say something, but she then closed it, nodding in acknowledgement. To Kit's surprise, Surge ruffled his hair, leaving it frazzled, and grinned. ''Heh, of course you'd do that. It's us against the world, after all, and we will make sure that everyone respects us.''

''That sounds great!'' Kit said happily.

''Hey!''

Surge and Kit were surprised to hear someone calling out for them, only to be surprised when a pink hedgehog in a sports outfit and a human teenager approached them. Both felt tense, wondering who these two were and what they wanted from them. They did have an assumption that both of them were Sonic's friends, leaving them unsettled.

''You're Surge and Kit, right? My name is Amy Rose,'' Amy introduced herself, then pointed at Minami. ''This is Minami Kusakabe, my partner.''

''Why should we care? You're friends with that Faker, aren't you?'' Surge interrupted, giving them a snide look.

''I'm pretty sure that there is only one person who is allowed to call Sonic 'Faker','' Minami remarked. Surge and Kit were a bit annoyed that Minami was talking to them in such a casual tone.

''What do you want?!'' Surge growled, electricity crackling in her hands. ''Because if you don't leave, I'm going to fry both of you.''

''We just want to talk to both of you, nothing else,'' Amy said, holding up her hands defensively. Surge and Kit gave her an irked look, clearly not in the mood to talk to someone who was friends with Sonic and Tails. Amy was wondering what to tell them to gain even a fraction of their trust, when Minami took over.

''How about we make a deal? You talk to us, and we give you free sweets, as much as you can eat,'' Minami suggested. Surge rose an eyebrow.

''Tch, I'm not hungry…'' Surge responded, only for her stomach to growl right in that moment, leaving her slightly embarrassed. She then shot a glare at Minami. ''Don't you dare to say anything!''

''We didn't eat anything since this morning and it's past noon,'' Kit pointed out. Surge hated to admit it, but Kit was correct. She was actually quite hungry, and the battle against Sonic drained her. She needed some good food to fuel up before she could even battle Sonic again.

''Fine,'' Surge conceded, placing her hands on her hips. ''As long as the food is free and tastes good. Otherwise, I'm not saying anything.''

''Don't worry, I know just the place,'' Minami replied. ''Follow me!''

Minami took note of Amy's lips quirking upwards, with the pink hedgehog being well aware where she was leading them. Both of them were also relieved at how easy it was to convince Surge and Kit to agree to their terms, with Minami figuring that, even if they were Sonic and Tails' friends, the two wouldn't be as hostile to them. Not only that, but offering them what was basically an all-you-can-eat buffet of free sweets was basically an incredibly tempting peace offering, because she doubted that anyone could resist the offer of free food. Minami had to admit to herself that this was something she had actually planned out, as she knew that Surge and Kit wouldn't want to talk to her and Amy regardless of what they said.

This move may have been quite devious to an outsider, but Minami didn't mind it. She may have been a kind and sweet person, or at least presented herself as one, but she could also be very shrewd and manipulative if she wanted to gain something. There were many times where she played up a sweet and innocent act to get out of trouble, or even used carefully crafted sentences to sway people to her side, especially when she was younger and had her cuteness as a child on her side. As she got older, she understood that the world, and therefore humans, were more complex, and that she had to adapt to her situation, learning how to read people and finding the easiest ways to make them do or say what she wanted. In this case, she wanted to know just how much of a danger Surge and Kit posed to everyone, as well as if there was a way to sway their opinion in regards to Sonic and Tails.

When she told that to Amy, the pink hedgehog could only sigh and remark that Team Neos was lucky that Minami wasn't their opponent, because she was quite troublesome when she acted like that. Minami simply chimed in how this was the reason why Makoto referred to her as a ''Menace to Society''. She also added that she wasn't interested in being a villainess, and to Amy's chagrin, remarked that, despite that, she was certain that she would make a good villainess in a shoujo novel. All Amy could do at that point is to facepalm, since Minami missed the point entirely.

It didn't take them too long until they reached their destination, Wave Patissierie. Surge and Kit were still a little doubtful, wondering if the free food would really be worth it, but they decided not to waste their opportunity, and followed Minami and Amy inside. There, they were met by a college student and his partner, a penguin ARNav, both dressed in the appropriate uniform that consisted of a white chef's coat and black trousers with the establishment's name printed on it.

''Welcome to Wave Patissierie! How may- oh, it's you two!'' The college student, who had greeted them, gave Minami and Amy a surprised, but pleased look.

''Hi, Daiki! Hey, Kori! I hope we're not bothering you,'' Minami replied.

''No you're not. We're having a slow day today,'' Kori replied, pointing at the empty patissierie. ''Do you two want the usual?''

''Well, we actually have a request…'' Minami said, trailing off. She and Amy turned to Surge and Kit, who were staring at the displays and almost drooling at the sight of so many cakes laid out, ready to be eaten. The cakes were almost sparkling, some looking simple, some being elaborately decorated with ingredients ranging from fruits, sprinkles, decorations made from sugar, flowers and so on. It appeared that seeing all of the food for themselves made them feel even hungrier than they actually were.

''Here.'' Amy approached the two, giving them plates. ''You pick up the sweets you like and then go to the counter to pay for them. Of course, since Minami said it'll be free for you, she'll be paying for it.'' Amy glanced at Minami, giving her a sly look, with the teenager just sighing, well aware that her wallet is gonna suffer. ''They also serve drinks here, and once you're done you can go to the tables over there to eat.''

Surge grinned, immediately walking up to the displays and picking up cakes she liked. Kit held back a bit, observing the ones Surge picked and looking a little lost on what to do. He had absolutely no idea which cake to choose, wishing that Surge had told him which one to pick. Not to mention, this was his first time seeing such a variety of sweets, as Starline never allowed them to eat anything that was supposedly unhealthy. He didn't know what those cakes tasted like and he had no opinion of his own aside from agreeing with Surge.

It appeared that Amy noticed his dilemma, well aware that Kit was not just Surge's support unit, but also entirely dependent on her for almost every decision. From Amy's perspective, this was an incredibly toxic relationship, but if she interfered with it in any way that upset them, she'd make herself a target. Fortunately, she had already figured out what the correct approach would be.

''Hey, Surge, is this your and Kit's first time at a patissierie?'' she asked. Surge rose an eyebrow, a little confused by the question.

''Yeah, of course it is,'' she said.

''Ah, that explains why Kit has a little trouble choosing what he wants,'' Amy said, deciding to employ the tactics she had learned from Minami. It appeared that Surge just now noticed that Kit was just standing there, lost and anxious. ''How about this? He picks some of the cakes you didn't choose and you both share plates to see which cakes taste the best. I'll even help with the recommend you some.''

''I guess we could do that,'' Surge muttered, but then flashed a grin. ''However, I'm sure that Kit will like what I picked more than what you recommend.''

''Of course I would,'' Kit immediately agreed, with both taking note of Amy's sweet smile and feeling a little puzzled. Amy didn't respond, instead feeling relieved that Kit looked much more at ease as she was recommending him which cakes to pick. By the end of it, they had two full plates of almost every single cake and sweet the patissierie had to offer. Minami was internally crying when she realized just how much she will have to pay, but she figured that it would be worth it the sacrifice. Besides, she still had one more ace up in her sleeve left.

''Is that all?'' Daiki asked as he checked the bill over again and giving Minami a questioning look, as he too understood that they went overboard.

''Y-Yeah, I'll be paying all of it,'' Minami replied, praying to whichever deity to bless her with the outcome she desired the most. It appeared that they heard her, because in that moment, Minami's mother, Sara Kusakabe, exited the kitchen with a freshly backed batch of cupcakes. ''Hey, Mum!''

''Wait, her mother owns this place?'' Surge and Kit gave Amy a surprised look.

''She used to work at a restaurant until she recently opened this place,'' Amy explained. ''This is also why we can recommend it, because we know all the food will taste excellent.''

''It is nice to see you… Oh, is this what you bought?'' Sara stared at the bill in surprise. Normally, she had an agreement with Minami and Amy that they would get a free cake and drink as she didn't want her daughter to pay for anything, so this took her off guard.

''Ah, I as actually paying for someone else…'' Minami explained in a sheepish tone, with Sara taking note of Surge and Kit. ''But, don't worry. I can pay for it in full. After all, I should be supporting the family business.''

''Supporting the family business with the money I gave you as an allowance,'' Sara pointed out, much to Minami's grief and Amy's amusement. ''Honestly, I'd rather that you don't have to pay for anything, but this is a lot…'' Sara replied. As much as she loved her daughter and would want to give her anything she desired, she also needed to think of her business and expenses.

''Well, if that's so, how about I pay half the price as a family discount?'' Minami suggested. Sara hummed.

''You'll pay half the price and you'll be handing out leaflets to promote the store,'' she said.

''Deal,'' Minami said, internally sighing in relief. She could live with that offer.

''Maybe we shouldn't have taken so many cakes,'' Kit said, glancing at Surge as they observed the whole exchange.

''Hey, they were the ones offering us free food. It's not their fault they didn't tell us to limit ourselves, and even then, I wouldn't care,'' Surge replied in a haughty tone. They found a table, and the moment they sat down, Surge and Kit took a bite of one of the chocolate roulade, they were blown away by the taste, having never eaten something like that before.

''This tastes amazing!'' Kit said, eyes sparking in awe.

''This is-'' Surge took note of Amy giving her a curious look, and quickly huffed, not wanting to look overly excited. ''I guess it's fine.''

''It's nice to hear that you like it,'' Amy responded in a chipper tone. Surge furrowed a brow, not sure what to make of it, but then continued to eat. Minami soon joined them, sitting down at the table with a defeated look.

''My wallet will hate me for this,'' she muttered, then glanced at the others. ''So, how's the food?''

''It's good,'' Surge replied in aloof tone, acting as if she wasn't enjoying every bite of the cake she ate.

''It's good,'' Kit said, imitating her, although he was having a bit of a harder time hiding his feelings about the food, perking up whenever he tasted his portion.

''I think that's a high praise coming from both of you,'' Minami said, surprising Surge and Kit, who weren't exactly used to this kind of treatment. ''Since you like the food, how about you uphold your end of the deal?''

''Ugh…'' Surge just gave her an unwilling look, having hoped that she wouldn't have to deal with this. Admittedly, she could just dine and dash, but she was also curious to an extend in regard to what they wanted to know. ''Fine. What do you want to talk about?''

''We were just curious about how you're handling being here,'' Amy said.

''Why would you want to know that?'' Surge asked, giving her a suspicious look.

''Because you were dealing with Starline, and I can only imagine how awfully he had treated you,'' Amy responded.

''Starline lied to us,'' Kit said, giving Amy a dark look. ''He lied to us about everything.''

''We are not going back to him,'' Surge added. ''If the Doc ever dares to get into our way, we'll make sure it'll be the last thing he does.''

''That is a relief to hear,'' Amy said, leaving the two puzzled. ''I'm sure you'll be doing much better without him.''

''Why would you care? You don't even know what we're planning on doing. We could even be worse than Starline,'' Surge pointed out. ''We attacked your friends, and you're acting like nothing happened.''

''First of all, wasn't Starline the one who planted the idea of you attacking Sonic and Tails in your head?'' Amy asked, catching Surge and Kit off guard. She was correct, but it's not as if they wanted to acknowledge it.

''S-So, what?!'' Surge protested, getting angrier and angrier. ''Even though we left Starline, we don't plan on giving up destroying those two!''

''Yeah!'' Kit agreed, being just as determined as Surge was.

''I see…'' Amy muttered, with Surge just staring at her, baffled.

''How can you be so calm when I just declared that nothing would stop us from destroying your friends?'' Surge asked.

''The issue is, we're kinda getting used to getting those threats,'' Minami said in a calm, almost bored tone as she leaned against her table, supporting her chin with her hand.

''You got used to threats?'' Kit asked, stunned.

''We've ran into so many people who have threatened us and our friends in some way that we could make a Bingo card out of it for future encounters,'' Minami explained in a matter-of-fact tone. ''There's Ferra and Metal Sonic, Dr. Eggman and his Badnik Army, Shadow, Dr. Starline, Toshiro and Mephiles, other Irregulars and even Irregular Hunters, the military organization ARMS, Chaos, Rough and Tumble – although these guys were more of a joke – the pirates we encountered at the Surya Empire… All of them were a threat in some way, some of which managed to cause more damage than the others. In fact, Metal Sonic almost managed to kill Sonic and let him go just because he wanted to have another confrontation with him later on.''

Surge and Kit were both stunned to hear that. Starline hadn't told them about any previous threats Team Neos had to deal with, and they assumed that it would be easy for them to handle the mission they were given, but this went beyond their expectations. Clearly, they weren't even on the radar as Sonic's opponents, leaving them both in dismay.

''Aghrr, then how should I prove myself as Sonic's enemy if I'm not even able to land a scratch on him!'' Surge shouted in frustration, clutching her head with both of her hands, with Kit giving her a look of concern.

''Starline really left you with no choice, did he?'' Amy asked, her worried and sympathetic tone drawing Surge and Kit's attention.

''It's not just Starline, it's whoever decided that we should only exist to be Sonic's opponents!'' Surge growled, pointing at Amy accusingly. ''You can do whatever you want, but we can only do one thing!''

''Do you really have to?'' Amy asked, her tone calm, despite the threat of Surge electrocuting her.

''We don't have any other directives,'' Kit replied in a cold tone, glaring at Amy for making Surge upset. Amy hummed in thought.

''You know, maybe I could help you with finding a different directive,'' Amy suggested, surprising the two.

''How?'' Surge gave her a baffled look.

''Do you guys want me to tell your fortune?'' Amy asked with a smile, with data particles appearing in her hands, turning inot a stack of fortune cards. ''I used to work as a fortune teller in Sentoraru before I have met Minami, and even before that, I wanted to help people by telling them their fortune.'' Amy's gaze lowered as a melancholic look appeared on her expression. ''Unfortunately, the people who asked me about their fortune called me a jinx because in most cases, something bad would happen to them and they would blame me for all of their misfortunes, even if I had nothing to do with them.'' Amy then gave them a determined look, clenching her fists and fist-pumping. ''However, that won't stop me from helping people, no matter how badly they treat me.'' She gave Surge and Kit a sincere gaze. ''That's why I also want to help you two live a happy life. You've been wronged in many ways.''

''Tch, you're far too optimistic,'' Surge said in a dismissive tone, waving her hand. ''What if the kind of life we want to live doesn't fit what you imagined?''

''I know I can't stop you from doing what you want, but if you need another opinion, I'll be there for you,'' Amy assured her. ''If it involves fighting Sonic, that's something I'll leave to him.''

''You have a lot of faith in your boyfriend,'' Surge said, leaving Amy stunned.

''Wh-What?''

''Starline had taken the time to tell us all about your team, even though he mainly focused on Sonic and Tails, and one of the things he had told us that you're obsessed with Sonic and can act like a crazy fangirl,'' Kit added helpfully, only for him and Surge to be surprised when Amy frowned. They certainly didn't expect her to change her mood so quickly.

''That's a lie!'' Amy huffed. ''I don't know where he got that-'' Minami coughed. ''But I can assure you that I'm not obsessed with Sonic. We are simply good friends and teammates.'' She then grumbled under her breath. ''Besides, I'm fairly certain that he has a crush on someone else, but I don't have any evidence…''

''So, this is just another thing Starline lied to us about,'' Kit concluded, with Surge letting out a huff.

''Why am I not surprised anymore?'' she grumbled, blink in surprise when she saw Amy holding up a fork with a piece of strawberry shortcake to her, leaving Surge a little flustered. ''H-Hey, you don't have to shove that into my mouth!''

''You kind of stopped eating, so I was just wondering if you'd want to try my favorite type cake,'' Amy said, then pouted. ''I did ask Sonic what he thought about it, but he said it sucks. I think he was just messing with me-''

She was startled when Surge suddenly grabbed the fork and ate the offered cake, then gave Amy a haughty look. ''I don't know what Sonic was thinking, but this is great.''

''Thanks!'' Amy replied happily, while Surge just gave her a satisfied smirk, folding her arms across her chest.

''This just shows how much your so-called friend doesn't know what a good cake tastes like, proving that I'm the superior judge,'' Surge boasted, pointing with her thumb at herself.

''That's something we can agree on,'' Amy replied, with Kit also reaching for the strawberry shortcake.

''So, have you found a cake that you like?'' Minami asked him, leaving Kit a bit startled by the question.

''I… I don't know. All of them taste good and I…'' Kit replied, falling silent. Suddenly, he pressed his hands against his head, as if having a headache. ''I-I don't- know-''

''H-Hey, if you can't decide yet, you can always make your decision later on,'' Minami assured him, but Kit was still worried. Minami was also quite concerned, as she knew that it would be hard to help him be independent, but even the smallest step in the right direction would be enough.

''So, do you guys want me to read your fortune or…?'' Amy trailed off. Kit immediately looked at Surge for guidance. Surge stared at Amy for moment, then shook her head.

''I don't need any fortune cards to tell me what to do,'' she said in a serious tone.

''M-Me neither,'' Kit chimed in. Amy just nodded in understanding.

''That's fine. In fact I believe this is the best way to determine your own fortune,'' Amy said, then added in a more firm tone. ''I do have one more request.''

''What is it?'' Surge asked.

''If you're fine with this idea, may I suggest that you first try to experience living on your own in Neos City, away from Starline's influence. I believe that experiencing life for yourselves without having to follow the directive you were given would help you decide what you want to do next,'' Amy suggested. Surge's gaze fell. She had to admit that that wasn't such a bad idea, but she also wasn't sure what exactly living on their own would entail. It was quite a frightening thought, as she had no idea how to live for herself. Amy took note of her silence, adding, ''If you need help, I'd be glad-''

''I don't need help!'' Surge snapped, pointing at herself. ''Kit and I can do whatever we want and we don't need your help!''

To her surprise, Amy just gave her a sweet and encouraging smile. ''Then, I sincerely hope both of you will find happiness.''

Surge was silent, only to huff again, getting up. ''We're leaving.''

Kit gave her a confused look. ''But, we didn't finish eating…''

''We can pack those up,'' Surge said, with Kit getting up and following her. Kori, who had noticed them stopping eating, quickly came over with a box, packing up the remaining cakes. Surge turned to Amy, her eyes narrowing.

''I also have a suggestion for you,'' Surge said, with Amy giving her a curious look. ''Don't help people who look down on you. I hate these kinds of people and I think they should get beaten up for acting so arrogant.''

''Eh… I'll keep that in mind,'' Amy quickly replied, stunned by the advice, and then asked her directly, ''Do you look down on me?''

Surge took a moment to look back at her, but didn't answer, acting as if she didn't hear the question, and leaving with Kit, who held the box with the remaining cakes. Amy took a deep breath, turning to Minami.

''What do you think? How did this go?'' she asked.

''Honestly, I think it went well,'' Minami answered. ''Of course, it is not ideal, since the best outcome would for them to have a peaceful life without being burdened by the past, but we can't do much besides keeping an eye on them and offer guidance. What do you think?''

''I think that Surge and Kit would be able to find their own place here, but I don't think they will stop finding a way to fight Sonic and Tails,'' Amy said. ''We can only speculate just how deep their programing goes, but I think we should keep an eye on them.''

xXx

''Why didn't you answer Amy's question?'' Kit asked curiously, walking behind Surge as he held onto the box. Surge stopped walking for a moment, only to huff in annoyance.

''That's because it was a stupid question,'' Surge answered in a dismissive tone. Kit was confused, wondering why Surge would call that question stupid, but decided not to pursue the matter, since Surge didn't care about it either. Surge, on the other hand, wondered why Amy asked her that. Did she really care so much about her opinion? Feeling weird about the whole situation, Surge shook her head, deciding not to think about it. ''Anyways, I guess we could try out just living for a while.'' She then grinned. ''But, that doesn't mean that we won't cause any trouble for Sonic and Tails.''

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#Sonic Cyber Revolution (Masterlist)

[cassecorrea]

I’ve seen a lot of people do these and I wanted to get in on the action even though it’s super late

Thoughts on The Little Mermaid (2023)

Likes:

- I will forever preach about how my favorite scene is the one after KTG when they sneak back in!!! Soaking wet!! Giggling!! Quiet!! Late at night!!! I love it!!

- after reading about this I’m actually VERY glad they went with short dresses for Ariel — good costume design choice!! A big ballgown would hide the very fact that she’s human now!

- the Caribbean 👏🏼 calypso music 👏🏼 need I say more?

- how Eric finds out her name ☺️ written in the stars ☺️

- the opening quote! The fact that she doesn’t shed a tear until the end!

- the fact that the ending focuses on their new adventures together in the future

- part of your world reprise 2!! It should’ve been longer!!

- the jade mermaid figurine 🥹 (btw I want one please someone make a replica… that I can afford LOL)

- back to costumes, I love her blue dress!! (Tho Lashana(?) had her animated dress’ color palette so like… it was right there XD) but I also loved her pink dress!! And the ponytail!! She needed more hairstyles 😭

- I LOVE the fact that the mermaids are covered in scale patterns, that they don’t have skin at all but shimmering scales all over

- the fact that king Triton just SPAWNS???? From fish???? With the fish cape???? Now what was that about — also, how old are all the sisters if he’s been ruling for centuries??? Questions questions

- I love how Ariel and Eric meet on the beach in the OG but as a variant I did also like that a fisherman finds her (also I love how we see her struggling to swim to shore) this movie also made me realize how impossible that hair flip scene is since she’s standing on nothing and her hair would be behind her but it’s pretty so who cares

- Awkwafina my girl was the perfect scuttle

- scuttlebutt was so unnecessary but it’s low-key a bop so I’m not complaining (though Ariel and Eric SHOULDVE HAD A DUET ok bye) wait why isn’t there a single pop version of a song from the soundtrack like with every other film? Demi lovato singing let it go, Christina Aguilera reflection, zayn a whole new world, John legend and Ariana beauty and the beast, like BRO we needed one for under the sea!! Or part of your world!! Or kiss the girl! Ugh missed opportunity

- her hair on land TwT is so pretty TwT the shades of gold and red and orange ahhhh (maybe could’ve done with a few more red strands but it was still gorgeous) plus the shells in her hair!! She needed more!!

- I’m all over the place but the library scene !!! Ariel’s curiosity!! Ariel always disappearing LMAO someone needs to nail that girls fins to the floor is right

- love that they took out the writing plothole

- Jodi!! With the fork!!

- Grimsby being the ultimate shipper

- yo Vanessa’s actress?? For having so little screen time she BODIED that role

- Halle’s voice duh

- for the first time was such a needed song, love the cinematography especially in her room (her eating the soap!!! Lmao)

- go back home to daddy, and nEVER. LEAVE. AGAIN.

- Ursula looking all zombie and kaiju-esque?? Definitely to hide weird cgi but it looked so creepy and cool

- Eric struggling back to shore at the end and immediately calling to search for Ariel as he stumbles from exhaustion

- Ariel diving for the trident instead of Eric!!

- scuttle and Sebastian were a hilarious duo lmao

- Ariel’s mermaid design (but the early screen test footage version looked so pretty too… more thoughts in the dislike section about this)

- Ariel saving Max!!

- the whole market sequence tbh

- Ariel’s bones cracking when she transformed back into a mermaid!! But I’m so mad we never once got to see a full transformation scene lmao more about that later

- Ariel just putting everything in her mouth 🌷

- the grander orchestral soundtracks in each song

- Ariel’s grotto is bigger

- ariel killing Ursula (it’s her villain!!!) and having to drag herself across the deck (eric saved her with the harpoons so stop complaining)

- Ariel finding the telescope

- the shot of ariel swimming to the surface with her reflection on top with the fireworks!!!

- Ariel forgetting about the kiss

- Ariel singing along to under the sea!!! To show that she doesn’t absolutely hate her home!!! She just wants more!!! And the way she sings music is to me specifically !!! And the fact that she sings more period! I always thought she should’ve sang a lot more than twice in the original version for being known for her voice

- Ariel saving/healing Eric quicker with her siren song???

- the fact that one of my fave Disney ships is now getting all the love they always deserved ☺️

Dislikes:

- her sisters do more than the og but they still need to be shown more… and have lines lol. I read the companion novels for this version and they’re so prominent and have cool abilities and cultures and kingdoms but !! They don’t show any of that in the movie !! Like why add lore if you’re not going to show it… also I like the fact that in the companion novels they rule over fictional seas and their world map is different from ours, but then in the film they just mention real world locations like… pick one

- okay I gotta talk about it 😔 Ariel’s ocean transformation dress. Not to mention that whole scene. It’s one of my favorites in the original and they just… scrapped it. I was looking forward to them actually showing Ariel’s transformation back into a human at the end because I thought the original should’ve included it too (hello I love a good Barbie transformation scene) but they still didn’t show it… AND they didn’t even show the gold magic going to her tail OR her reaction!!! Like BRO WHAT???? And the fact that they took out her magical dress???? And just put her back in RAGS like they put my poor girl in a torn up smelly dress and for what 😭 not to mention the fact that they imply she had to swim naked, find the rags dress, and climb up all those stairs AHEM YEAH THEY ALSO TOOK OUT THE RISING FROM THE WATER SCENE LIKE BRO also if they didn’t want to include the ocean dress (mistake but ok, they could’ve had her scales transform into a dress but ok) they could’ve at least fixed up her blue dress… added some shimmer or shells and coral idk man

- yeah she needed at least one more day outfit… my girl wore the same dress for three days in a row… and one of those days it fell in a lake…

- the fact that every transformation scene was either dark and hidden or not shown at all (come on budget??)

- the screen test version where Ariel had more upper body and arm scales… was better. She just looked so empty compared to her sisters it was a weird choice they made to make her top look more like an actual bandeau bra with a harsh cut off and everything

- yes Ariel and Eric needed a duet

- where was the ensemble?? The choir??? Both in under the sea and kiss the girl??? Under the sea should’ve had a lot more people singing as the song went on especially since he’s talking about instruments and animals (that don’t even get shown???) but instead it sounds so empty since he’s singing by himself until Halle joins and a tiny quiet ensemble — and in kiss the girl it was such a BAD choice to have it just be scuttle Sebastian and flounder I’m sorry but it ruined the sultry smooth jazz calypso vibe of that beautiful song 😭 flounder’s vocals threw me so far out of it lmao they could’ve started the song singing it but the ensemble should’ve come in!!! Where were the harmonies!!! Anyway the broadway version is my fave listen to that instead

- the lyric changes were so unnecessary… Ursula’s a villain, duh she’s gonna spout some shady misogynistic advice… plus that was my fave part of the song 😭 also the whole “use your words boy” line was unnecessary… because when he leans into kiss her multiple times he doesn’t even ask………… like they missed the point there (also why was he already so willing to kiss her, he should’ve been super reluctant 😭)

- they took out les poissons which, fine, I guess but we’re not even gonna have a kitchen scene in any way?? Also Ariel got over the whole food for slaughter thing real quick but I’m glad they brought it up at all

- they could’ve had Sebastian rap at the ending bridge of under the sea (as an alternative to scuttlebutt)

- where was the finale song !!! With all the merpeople and humans singing together!!! At least have Ariel sing the deleted clip of it !!! Now we can walk now we can run… ugh we needed it

- loved the ending… but that final shot was a bit wonky?

- where was the cruise ship????? If we’re not gonna see the wedding on the ship (missing triton’s water spout and rainbow) fine but not even the engagement cruise?? Hello budget??? We didn’t even get to see Ariel swimming her butt off to get to Vanessa?? But we got her tackling her instead 😭😭 odd choice

- I’m sorry but the visuals were not giving on wild uncharted waters, at least in the first half… like show something!! Show him on the beach at least!! At Ariel’s rock??? Show flashbacks?? Idk something??

- the fact that Sebastian is no longer the court composer 😔 and he’s not dignified anymore he’s just an abused wannabe advisor who is harassed like whaaaaat he’s supposed to be one of her father figuresssss,,, also the fact that he’s so miffed and takes things into his own hands during KTG is because he’s a composer, it’s why he mentions bands and instruments in under the sea!!

- I was afraid of this when the casting announcement was first made but I was looking for some more expressive… expressions from Halle :( mainly in the poor unfortunate souls scene and when she has no voice, like she does a great job but I do think she needed to be more expressive in some parts

- why does Ariel call him father?? And not daddy?? Small nitpick but it seemed a lot colder/distant when she called him father lol like it threw me out of it in the goodbye scene

- the whole concert scene was gone lmao not to mention that we barely even see other merpeople or their culture, we literally just see the sisters in an otherwise empty sea until the ending

- no lyrics to Vanessa’s song :( but it was sung beautifully. Oh also it made no sense that Vanessa’s melody started singing before she even put the necklace on?? Like wha?? Why would Ariel’s melody change on its own? Also why did Vanessa not talk in Ariel’s voice? That girl had three voices come out of her XD I guess they wanted the actress to be able to talk??

- also I wish Vanessa were black too since she was supposed to look so similar to Ariel and be mistaken for her (Halle could’ve played her, or even Chloe!) but the actress did a great job so it’s fine

- I’m sorry but Eric should’ve been Hispanic imo… :( they made sure it takes place in the Caribbean but still had a white Eric? Who was adopted? Idk man I wanted a Latino prince :/ also wasn’t a fan of the way they styled his hair or stubble because he looks much better in other things he’s been in

- Eric had only one outfit, even for his wedding XD, and what was up with that weird blue vest

- the shot of Ariel in the sun was too blurry and dark :( didn’t give off the same vibes as the og

- the sky in the part of your world reprise is so pale, they could’ve upped the saturation behind her :( the shot didn’t give the same oomph

- Ariel creeping up the rock… why

- the weird shot in part of your world where her hand is through the hole but it cuts to her being on the rock at the bottom? Made no sense lol also they could’ve upped the saturation of her hair underwater the way it looks in the sunlight since it’s all cgi

- they couldn’t even give my girl an actual high quality mermaid tail to base the cgi off of?? H2O had a much smaller budget but had actual detailed tails 😭

- for the first time was great but melody wise it didn’t seem to fit the rest of the soundtrack? It was much more broadway-ie

- why didn’t the eels talk? Why did Ursula not even talk to them? Ariel killing them literally is what gets her mad and go kraken on her but… they barely had a relationship in this one

- ^ like why did Ursula say the word pathetic out loud? To no one? How was that not an immediate turn off for Ariel? Plus the skulls??

- where was Eric’s flute? Playing Ariel’s melody? And Vanessa walking across the beach all majestic like?

- I’m sorry but the queen was so unnecessary… I get what they were going for with the Triton parallels but they could’ve done that with Grimsby in the beginning or his court or whatever, why give a mom who’s barely in the film then immediately changes her mind in the very end without us seeing it?

- Carlotta 😭 poor girl was written out!!! Lashana was obviously supposed to be her so why change her name?

- I do kinda wish they made the three days longer (give her a week?) but I get why they didn’t, that’s just a personal thing

- some of the underwater scenes were shot at an angle that were unflattering to Halle which pissed me off because she looks stunning in every other part of the movie

- why did Eric’s castle look like a gray European fortress 😭 where were the red tiled roofs and the canals

- Atlantica went from a glowing golden magical city-palace to an underground rocky coral cave… couldn’t we have done a mix?

- flounder was so unnecessary he was barely in the movie in favor for the scuttle/Sebastian dynamic

- max was barely in the movie :(

All in all I HOPE they make a sequel (but please don’t base it off of the terrible animated one lmao please no kids) and give Ariel and Eric a duet, give Eric a tail!!! Make him explore her world too!!! And actually address the fact that Ursula killed the queen like the companion novels state… also please include a full transformation scene lol also why does no one make a version where she can switch between worlds freely, it’s okay I’ll write that into my own version

[fourseasonsfigs]

Wen Kexing with Purple Cloak

I love this fig since it so perfectly captures Wen Kexing's unhappy but grim resolution to handle things in Episode 26. And by "handle things", meaning going off to his likely demise.

I remember watching this episode and my jaw dropping open as suddenly he had a purple cloak on! We'd been seeing a lot of the pink costume up till now, but lo and behold we have this gorgeous purple cloak billowing around him as he walks.

The sharply resolute look on his face when he turns around to leave...just perfection.

He arrived perfect and precious on my doorstep, frowning mightily away. By the way, all those little strings of fluff around him are the remnants of something that my MTL calls "pearl cotton" which is this ultra light, fluffy, soft wispy cotton batting. It's like the most high end cotton batting I've ever seen, and those little fibers get everywhere on the fig. My vision isn't the best anyway, and then these little fibers are individually quite invisible. They love to hide around hairpins and in folds of clothing, so I only often see rogue fibers after I've taken rounds of pics. It's a great cushioning material so I can't mind it, but this last batch of figs had so much pearl cotton I could probably have stuffed an entire throw pillow.

There was no way to get him to stand on his own, so I immediately put fig stickers on his feet and slapped him up on a fig stand. Metaphorically speaking, only the most delicate handling for my figs!

The pattern in his eyes is just gorgeous. We have the maple leaf pattern that matches the ones on his pink yuanlingpao, and then the purple highlights to match his cloak.

Such beautiful posture, Lao Wen! Standing straight and tall, unyielding and determined to meet your fate.

I also love purple, so anything with this color is an automatic favorite for me!

Just a whole glorious mass of hair from the back!

I personally always love huge billowy cloaks with massive amounts of fabric for the sheer drama of it, but in reality the cloak wasn't that crazy. So this is a good rendering of it.

I did in fact buy the licensed replica of this cloak while it was still available, and it is really nice. It's beautifully designed and very comfortable so that the ties simply hold it shut vs. choke up around the neck.

You can see him holding his fist like he was in the show. Some of this is to allow the costume to drape gracefully on screen, but some of it is to show his resolve and readiness. There's no wealthy-young-master-hand-behind-the-back pose here.

I really like the detail they put into the pink yuanlingpao underneath the cloak. It really feels like the cloak is a separate piece over the clothes.

No pants here, just a cutoff over the boots. It's fine of course, but you know how I like the hidden detail of the pants tucked into the boots when we see it on figs.

Aww look at his little clenched fists! This whole batch of hairpins miraculously made it through on this last ocean shipment, despite any additional air column protection. Must be all the pearl cotton!

Sadly, this fig maker's whole batch of figs did not come with any printed box art or box cards. This is her last batch of figs, as she is no longer making them, so I suppose it was more trouble than it was worth to make cards. Which is too bad in multiple ways, I'll miss her figs!

Material: Resin

Fig Count: 429

Scene Count: 29

Rating: Two fists of stalwart determination!

[link back to Master Fig Index for more posts]

[apompkwrites]

Part 2 of Opposite Dorms

★♥︎

(Name) Schoenheit gets sorted into Scarabia.

He never wanted to be on the big screen, he just wanted to writer of a show. He sighed, closing his writing book that was filled with ideas. He was tired of being dolled up in makeup for a performance. He didn't mind supporting Vil, but he rather be a teenager than be an actor, he didn't wanted to go to fancy parties or constantly going to photo shoots. He rather do that when he's older and when it's his choice.

"The Shape of Your Soul is Scarabia."

What a relief, he won't be under Vil's watchful gaze. He had to be careful when walking over to his dormmates, noticing the perky nature of his dorm leader. He probably needed to make sure his dorm leader matures over time if he wants to get anything done. He sat beside his dormmates with a sigh, knowing the difference in heat the dorm will be in comparison to his home. He'll have to get more sunscreen, it seems.

(Name) Shroud gets sorted into Pomefiore.

He pushed up his glasses ever since he was locked up, his sight has been worse along with his skin tone which was paler than his older brother. He hide behind his ceremonial robes hood, wanting to head back to the blot phantoms that became more of his family than his actually family beside Ortho. He shook visibly at the tempature before sighing, he wanted to be pretty but he didn't deserved it.

"The Shape of Your Soul is Pomefiore."

He didn't deserve that dorm, he walked over to his dormmates silently. He heard the dorm leader miniature scoff while instinctively putting his head down. Whenever his family scoffed at him, it was usually an air of disappointment, so he already disappointed his dorm leader. He covered his ears to avoiding his the lavender haired boy's concerned glance.

(Name) Draconia gets sorted into Heartslabyul.

He studied over and over the etiquette and rules over the Valley of Thorns. Studying different cultures in order to be a good second prince; improving himself over time. He was essentially a spare in case Malleus ever was incapacitated for whatever reasons. He tried to remind Malleus about the Dormitory Sorting, but he had left before he could get the chance. He sighed, adjusting his ceremonial robes to make sure they're fitting properly.

"The Shape of Your Soul is Heartslabyul."

He simply sighed, heading over to the dormmates that he has. He knew he was intimidating due his brother being the one and only Malleus Draconia. Ah, he has to memorized the dorm rules especially if he wants to stand a chance at becoming future dorm leader of Heartslabyul. He reluctantly sat down beside the second available spot which was by the dorm leader with the vice dorm leader on the other side.

☆♡

hehe lil schoenheit being in scarabia makes them seem like the bridge between jamil and kalim? like now that they're in a place that doesn't necessarily care about appearance, they get to relax a bit. but they aren't the type full on party like kalim. but they also aren't going to be so oriented in rules and organization like jamil.

and and lil shroud being thrown into a dorm that will 100% boost their confidence (albeit through some... concerning means). i can imagine vil marveling in just their hair alone. ugh the amount of looks that can be made, the possibilities! also love the lil hint of epel being worried about lil shroud :O they're best friends you're honor.

and last but not least lil draconia :DD love the idea of them being so used to heartslabyul because of their "royal" upbringing. they fit well into the transition to their new NRC life, a sort of perfect replica of what heartslabyul wants to be.

[timemimic]

What are the Clone Watch, Super Clone Watch, and Replica Watch?

Clone Watches

Clone watches are only similar in appearance, with their movements and functionalities being different from the original. They are essentially look-alikes on the outside, but with internals that don’t match up to the genuine article.

Super Clone Watches

Super Clone Watches go beyond mere appearance. They not only resemble the original in looks but also replicate the original movement and functions. However, they fall short in some details, such as the technology used in the calendar’s oil pressure and the engraving on the movement’s plates, where noticeable differences can be observed.

Replica Watches

Replica watches are comprehensive restorations of the original product, both inside and out. They achieve true 1:1 replication, from the fine details of the appearance to the functionality of the movement, and even the texture of the movement. These watches replicate over 95% of the original, striving for near-perfect accuracy in every aspect.

In the intriguing world of high-end watches, where the line between the real McCoy and its doppelgänger gets blurry, we have three fascinating characters: “Clone Watches,” “Super Clone Watches,” and “Replica Watches.” Let’s dive into this horological soap opera and see who’s who.

How to distinguish them?

First up, we have the “Clone Watches,” the distant cousins in this family. These timepieces have the look but not the genetic code of their pricier kin. They often use Chinese-produced ETA movements (A2824/A2836 & variants), which are essentially Swiss ETA automatic movement doppelgängers. Although these clones generally boast decent quality and reliability, they’re like that off-brand soda that’s almost like Coke but not quite. You know, the kind that tastes just fine until someone tells you it’s not the real deal. For instance, the Rolex Submariner series in this category uses the Citizen 2813 movement, which, while stable, is more vanilla than a vanilla milkshake. It’s easier to repair, though, which is a plus if you’re not keen on watch surgery.

Next, we have the “Super Clone Watches,” a step up in the imitation game. These guys use the 2824 movement, which is to 2813 what a Tesla is to a golf cart – more stable, reliable, and even passes the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) tests, the watch world’s SATs. The Replica Watches, however, are the crown jewels of mimicry. They use the Rolex 3135 movement (and now the 3235, with longer energy storage but a bit like a high-maintenance celebrity in terms of stability). These replicas nail everything from the movement’s details to its functionality, achieving over 95% similarity. It’s like having a stunt double for your Rolex that does all the hard work but costs less.

Thickness is another area where these watches show their true colors. The replica Submariner is thinner than the clone version, and this difference is especially noticeable in ultra-thin series like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Moon, where we’re talking a whopping 3mm gap. That’s like comparing a pancake to a waffle, thickness-wise.

Now, let’s talk about the wristbands. Clone watches use the same 904L steel as Rolex, so they have a heft to them that screams, “I’m almost the real thing!” The replicas, on the other hand, miss the authentic mark by just 2 grams, which in the watch world is like missing a flight by two minutes – so close yet so far.

The mirrors are different too. Clone watches use ordinary glass (some even dare to go acrylic), while replicas use sapphire crystal, which is like comparing a regular TV screen to a 4K Ultra HD one.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a watch for occasional wear or just to add to your collection, a clone watch might suffice. It’s like having a double for your favorite actor in a movie – good enough for wide shots, but don’t expect Oscar-worthy close-ups. Super Clone Watches are your go-to for most social situations where no watch aficionados are present. And if you’re after the crème de la crème, go for a Replica Watch. Even the experts need a magnifying glass and some Sherlock Holmes skills to spot the difference.

Remember, though, that no matter how good they are, replicas are still the horological equivalent of a stunt double – fantastic in their role but not the star of the show. And if you’re hunting for replicas, Guangzhou, China, is the Hollywood of watch replicas, with over 20 years in the game and a supply chain as robust as Arnold Schwarzenegger in his prime. But if you’re not buying from Guangzhou, beware of getting a lemon dressed as a Rolex. And lastly, remember, if you can, always go for the real deal. It’s like choosing between an autographed photo of your favorite celebrity and meeting them in person – the latter is just so much better.

[wizardsjournal]

Hilarious Short Videos Today's Funniest Jokes Burst with Laughter jokes ...

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Laughter is really the very best medication, and in today's fast-paced world, brief videos have actually ended up being a go-to source for immediate laughter. From brilliant one-liners to hilarious antics, we have put together a collection of side-splitting videos guaranteed to brighten your day and leave you chuckling frantically. These funny videos capture the essence of everyday life, often overemphasizing relatable scenarios that bring out the humour in our daily regimens. Whether it's a feline chasing its tail or a toddler's adorable mispronunciations, these joyous minutes remind us to find laughter in the simplest of things. Prepare to laugh until your socks roll off as you dive into a world of comical radiance. Our choice of videos includes stand-up funny efficiencies, sketch comedy spoofs, amusing animal clips, and viral web memes. No matter your funny bone, there's something to tickle everyone's funny bone in this collection. So, if you're feeling a bit down or just need a great laugh, look no further. Click use any of these uproarious videos, and let the infectious laughter wash over you. We guarantee that no matter how uninspiring your day might seem, these brief comedy bursts will bring a smile to your face and brighten your entire outlook in an immediate!

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[omurchumakes]

Motorcycle Mischief

The road out of the town, is verdant and lush, narrow and twisty so its a good test of your alertness before eight in the morning. There’s always a car coming against you, normally on a bend, but you crest the hill and the valley opens up giving a view of the main road, and a bowl of moody grey roiling clouds, bisceted neatly by a set of power lines. I roll down to the crossroads gently, avoiding a few patches of gravel; more dangerous than juggling chainsaws drunk before coming to rest at the intersection, a quick shoulder check, throttle up, clutch out, releasing the footbreak and we’re away on open road with nothing but the soundtrack of RPM’s, wind and a feeling of pure freedom.

So I went looking and stumbled accross Royal Enfields, and in particular the interceptor, and I just fell in love with the style, and look of them. I’ll be honest, I did very little hard research on the brand, on the reliability, on maintainability or where they’re manufactured [this is called foreshadowing kids]. No I went straight to adverts.ie and donedeal desperately looking for one of these bad boys on sale.

Now prior to this, I had picked up The Official Driver Theory Test Questions and Answers, now this was partly because I needed a goal outside of job hunting to keep myself from going insane while unemployed. I also booked a theory test for the motorbike, because if I don’t have a deadline, I will never do the thing. After a few weeks of going over the book, I discovered there is an app that you can practice with, so obviously I bought that too.

I took the theory test down in Tullamore on a grey squib of a Saturday, and I was bricking it. However, having passed on before (a loooong time ago) I figure’d I’d be ok. They take security really serious in the test center. Firstly you sign in, and you have to lock everything you have with you in a locker, not even a spare hair tie was allowed in, or my smart watch. Once signed in you go to an airlock like room, where a second staff member has you face a camera and they pat you down and take your licence. Then you’re permitted into the test room. Now other people are already in there testing, so you quietly sit and the touch screen boots up, taking you through a tutorial and then the test itself. I have to say the app is a perfect replica of the screens and questions and layout, I really would recommend it. In and out in about 20 minutes, I felt a little guilty as I started after several folks and finished before them too. But I figured I had it easy as I had done one before. We should talk about costs, but I will cover them later. The screen tells you your score and you know if you’ve passed or failed, they also inform you that your results will be emailed to you.

However, you’d be sadly mistaken. Which is how your narrator was sitting in a carpark in Tullamore furiously trying to gain access to test results which should have been fully automated. I ended up sending about four complaint emails. Eventually on Monday someone got back to me, they had adjusted my login details manually so I could retrieve my results. I then applied for the learner permit as the next step in the process. It was never clear to me if you needed a new driver number, if you could use your old one, or if you needed to replace your full car licence. It turns out that you get a new card, with the same driver number that is a learner permit but just for the motorbike stuff and is missing your car licences. Simple.

Next step, the IBT -Initial Basic Training this is a mandatory course you must take and pass for the class of bike you want to ride, quick aside, there’s four classes in ireland AM, A1, A2 and A the definitions are a mess. Simply, A is all motorbikes, A2 is anything up to a certain CC, weight, power to weight ratio and overall power, also slightly age limited. I was eligible to go straight to an A class licence.

I was informed it was the largest IBT space available in Dublin. At first it seemed like load of space, but as I soon learned it was really not that large at all. The course is intense, and takes you from being a complete rookie up to being out on the road on a motorbike in real life traffic without a safety net. The instructors were super thorough and focused on getting you comfortable, and drilling the skills needed to keep you alive on a bike. Martin and Tony were great craic and really good teachers, also willing to stay late, and let you go at your own pace, to ensure you can do everything with confidence. Sadly I was only qualified on an A2 bike, instead of the A that I wanted, but to be honest, while bike shopping I couldn’t find an A class bike that I liked that I could afford.

Back to Chromie, did the usual, contacted on adverts, brought my knowledgable biker friend to have a look, seller was a super nice dude, very friendly and chatty, knew a lot about bikes in general. I took her out for a short spin, now for context, I learned on a 450cc bike basically the weekend before, and now I was getting on a much heavier 650cc bike, in a housing estate. I was quite nervous, but I took her out around a few corners, tested the breaks and handling, she felt great. The suspension was as soft as a particularly old sofa your grandparents might have had. I thought it was a feature of these type of bikes (I was wrong). My mate had a similar go and we agreed she felt solid, an no obvious flaw in her.

The sellar didn’t put any pressure on me to buy, he liked the bike so much he didn’t really want to let it go but he was selling it on behalf of the owner. I decided to pull the trigger, I paid a deposit, and we agreed I’d sort insurance and he would bring it to my office and I’d pay him on delivery.

Getting insurance was difficult, time consuming and incredibly expensive, we don’t need to spend time on that.

Then a week later I brought her over to my dad to show off, he was suitably impressed and in love with it. Now unfortunately, while rolling down the drive way, i tipped over and dropped the bike and spilled myself on the road like the absolute rookie I am. This is where the problems start….possibly.

I buzz on home, no problems, the route is through a load of small towns and back roads untill I eventually get onto an N road headed out home. I am blasting along at around 100 kph when, the bike dies, I loose all mechanical power, the dash is lit up and I am freaking out. I pull into a ditch, dismount and turn on the hazards.

I can’t get her to restart.

Fuck

I have a protein bar

calm down

I call the insurance and get a tow truck to come out and get her. And I spend a lovely bank holiday Sunday evening in a ditch waiting for a tow truck. A super nice dude eventually arrives about an hour later and we load her up onto his truck. He very kindly gives me a lift home, and his contact information to let them know what garage to bring it to. As if I have a garage lined up.

As side note, the next day I blew out a tire on the car, but thats a tale for another time. Chromie goes on a little trip over to the recommended mechanic on Tuesday after the bank holiday. The guys work on her all day Wednesday and a chunk of Thursday and eventually they call me to collect her. She cut out twice on them while they were trying to chase down the problem but they never managed to isolate it, and they only charge me for a basic service as a result. They also inform me that my super soft suspension, means the suspension is fucked and needs to be replaced.

Delighted

As I am about to pull away the mechanic runs over and offers me a glimmer of hope. “Try flipping the shocks upside down, you literally cannot make them any worse than they are now”.

When a mechanic makes something sound easy, remember dear reader, they’re a professional and not a moron, like your author here. I convince myself on the way home, sure I can flip the suspension over tonight no big deal. I’ve no car at the minute at home and only this sketchy motorbike to get to work. Surely I wouldn’t risk breaking my only mode of transport without backup. Keeping in mind one of the reasons for getting the bike was to have a back up to the car.

After about 5 hours of effing and blinding, I got the shocks flipped. As usual the bulk of the job was in getting the first one sorted, and about 30 minutes for the second one. Oh I also dropped the bike again, and nearly had a hernia picking it back up.

But were back in the saddle and the ride is so much better with the flipped shocks. Turns out Hagon shocks have the stickers on upside down, that and the previous owner might have been a fuckin dope.

In betwixt all this I had joined a local group on reddit (shoutout to yis animals if ye ever read this, love you all) and arranged to go for a spin, so that Sunday I mounted up and headed off to Kilcock. We had a fuckin steller time riding around for about an hour, when Chromie up and fucking died again on me. At least this time I knew to let her rest a few minutes and then restart her. I somehow managed to catch up to the group and had another 5 successful hours riding around and talking shite about bikes over lunch.

Fast forward a few days, I’m on the way home from work, going around a bend and I loose all power again, except this time, add a little spice. I’m banked over, and the back of the bike starts to fishtail. I’m convinced this is how I fucking die.

I make it upright, pull over on the side of the road, finish having a coronary and decide, I am fucking benching the bike until I can get it fixed. I limp her home, very slowly, very carefully and hang up my riding boots….

Not.

I jump online and do a deep dive, stumbling accross www.royalenfieldowners.com specifically on a thread going back to 2022 about Interceptor 650’s having this problem, and a whole host of people complaining about how fucking dangerous it is. However the consensus was that, it was an over application of waterproofing grease in the relays which was causing poor conductivity between the relay and its holder. Also potentially its the relay themselves, or it could be the kill switch wiring, or it could maybe be the safety cut out on the kick stand vibrating too much at high speeds. You get the idea.

I made a list of most likely to least likely problems and decided to talk to a professional.