#free entry to monuments

[snapscube]

So do you have a spoiler free review of the Spider-Man 2 game, for people like me who haven’t bought/seen the game yet? (I lack money so I have to wait for Christmas lol)

I can give you my top-down thoughts yeah!

Gameplay-wise, it's a night and day improvement over the first game in basically every regard. I've heard some mixed opinions on the new gadget/abilities system, and I had my own hang-ups here and there, but once I got a feel for it and started actively looking for ways to cleverly use them and upgrade them it really clicked. The flow of combat is amazing. The swinging mechanics are a MONUMENTAL improvement over Spider-Man Remastered and Miles Morales. Those games had fantastic swinging, don't get me wrong, but they always had the issue of having a pretty intense speed cap and a disappointingly small amount of maneuvers to play with and master. This game introduces not only the web wings, which add a whole extra dimension of traversal to play with, but also still manages to improve the swinging itself more than I ever expected. Tight cornering, loop-de-loops, slingshots, and more are ALL introduced and work amazingly. And on top of it all, the speed cap for traversal is a 3X INCREASE when fully upgraded. And you feel it IMMEDIATELY, because even the baseline speed is so much faster from the jump. The game just plays beautifully in every regard, easily worth the price of entry for that alone.

Story-wise, I've mentioned I have some hangups about the pacing that I'm still working out. I just started a second story playthrough so I'm giving it time before I form any "final" thoughts, but my gut experience was that the first Act comes out the gate firing on all cylinders. The characters feel so alive, the world is breathtaking, and there's a ton of intrigue. But then once you hit Act 2 and 3 things speed up in a way that can feel a bit unnatural. One thing that helps this though is making sure to pace out your playthrough with side missions. It doesn't fix the pacing entirely, but there are so many side missions in this game that honestly feel just as integral and worth doing as the main story. I would say definitely try to do as much as you can to pace out Act 2 a little more with side content, cause much like Miles Morales this feels like the kind of game that lives and dies by its side stories. The secondary cast is incredible, and there's a ton of easter eggs and emotional beats that are integral to the overall picture of this game but just aren't in the main stuff. But the beats that hit in the main story hit REALLY HARD. The game definitely has the common sequel problem of shooting for a lot more and as a result kinda ends up a lot messier. The first game is still more of a quintessentially good Spider-Man tale than this one. But that is NOT to disparage this one at all. It is WORTH experiencing, for sure, I just think maybe it could have used some more polish. But there are a ton of moving parts, so I can totally see how they ended up with what they did.

I have a lot of other thoughts but those are sorta the big two pillars I can easily discuss without encroaching on spoiler territory and without writing basically a whole article.

[gemsofgreece]

Do people say "happy Oxi Day" in Greece? I'm Greek American and have very little idea how people actually celebrate today

Hello and χρόνια πολλά! This is our go-to wish for every occasion, including the Ohi Day. For non-Greek speakers, it means "(here's to) many years". Before the day arrives we also wish "Καλή επέτειο!" which means ¨Happy Anniversary¨, meaning the Anniversary of Ohi (No).

The day is one of the two (or two and a half to be exact) national days Greece has. It is a national holiday, only restaurants and cafes are open for the people to celebrate. This day museums and archaeological sites are also open and they have a free entry. Everything else is shut down though.

The most notable thing about the No Day is the school and military parades that take place all over Greece. Remote areas with little population may only have school parades. Larger areas have a mixed school and military parade. Athens and Thessaloniki, the two largest cities, have separate parades for convenience. It is customary that on October 28th, the major military parade takes place in Thessaloniki and on March 25th it takes place in Athens. So today it was in Thessaloniki. The major military parade includes heavy artillery and shows from the air forces. Sometimes on these days surviving historical warships from the 40s are moored to the big ports for people to see and visit.

Photos from the military parade in Thessaloniki and an evzone who went viral for tearing up.

And one from the school parade in Athens.

This day most TV channels have a thematic Ohi program, featuring movies, documentaries and talk shows about WW2 and Greece's history in it.

Now the working day before the October 28th (and the March 25th) is also a school holiday, however students still attend the school and have celebrations there which they prepare with their teachers for quite some time. This school celebration includes reciting poems, speeches, theatrical plays and music choirs. The best student (aka the one with the highest grades) of the school is announced and receives the flag, which they will use on the national day because they become the school's σημαιοφόρος (simeofóros) flagbearer in the school parade. The next five best students become the παραστάτες (parastátes), who join the flagbearer in a parade formation a little in front of the rest of the school. Between the flagbearer and the parastates and the rest of the school there is often a διμοιρίτης (dimirítis) marching on their own sort of guiding the rest of the school, who is singled out for their stature and / or their good march, so they give the rhythm to the rest of the kids. The school march is joined by the physical exercise teacher who is responsible for it and walks on the kids' side.

Oh also early in the morning, before the parade starts, the students and the authorities of every region and I assume representatives from the military as well lay wreaths at associated monuments, usually monuments to the Unknown Soldier.

Of course, I forgot to say that aside from being a school and military parade, the parade also features surviving war veterans, folklore and traditional associations from all around Greece, the scouts, the Red Cross staff, the students of the military schools, the police, the firefighters and more.

Happy rest of the October 28th!

[inception30daychallenge]

Inception 30 Day Challenge 2024: Get inspired, share your hot takes and win prizes!

Create a post, whether it be text, art, music, or any other media, using these 31 items as prompts. Feel free to participate in as many or as few of them as you want!

Copy the prompt into the body of the post somewhere and tag your posts with @inception30daychallenge, #inceptiversary, and #inception30daychallenge. Your posts will be reblogged on this blog for everyone to appreciate!

You earn one entry for every prompt you answer before 11:59 PM EDT on July 31. We’ll hold a raffle then to determine our prize winner(s)! More info can be found in our FAQ.

Prompts below the cut, or at this Google Doc link!

Day 01: Your favourite thing about the movie.

Day 02: Classify each character according to the Alignment Chart. (For more details on what each box means)

Day 03: A post-canon headcanon.

Day 04: Arthur’s secret phobia.

Day 05: Your favourite line in the movie.

Day 06: A fic rec!

Day 07: If you had to change a scene from the movie to have a musical number, which scene would it be?

Day 08: What songs/artists are on Eames’ main playlist?

Day 09: Which character has the most annoying habit on the job and what is it?

Day 10: A headcanon about your favourite character.

Day 11: Mal’s favourite fairytale.

Day 12: Your favourite setting in the movie.

Day 13: A fanart rec! (note: please do not repost art from tumblr artists! just reblog it and tag @inception30daychallenge so we can see it.)

Day 14: What skills would you bring to a dreamshare team?

Day 15: Cobb’s greatest parenting strength and weakness.

Day 16: Inception Day! Make anything Inception-related! Take a photo, write a poem, make a meme, sing a tune, whatever you want!

Day 17: How did the team spend the rest of the week on the first dream level?

Day 18: What building or monument does Ariadne wish she designed?

Day 19: Your favourite bit of fanon.

Day 20: Another type of rec! (meta, podfic, fanvid, edit, meme, blog, whatever!)

Day 21: What would you want to use dreamshare technology for?

Day 22: What skill does Robert wish he had?

Day 23: If you had to be stuck on a deserted island with an Inception character, who would you choose?

Day 24: A headcanon about your favourite friendship or relationship.

Day 25: When Saito was a child, what did he want to be when he grew up?

Day 26: Which summer Olympic sport would each character compete in? 

Day 27: A self-rec! (anything from art to a funny Tumblr post you made!)

Day 28: What piece of media would you want to see in a crossover with Inception?

Day 29: Something Yusuf keeps hidden in his desk.

Day 30: If the characters were all in a band, what instruments/roles would they play?

Day 31: A letter to Inception fandom.

[reasoningdaily]

Atlas of the Transatlantic Slave Trade

Click the title link to Download for FREE from THE BLACK TRUEBRARY

Atlas of the Transatlantic Slave Trade

Click the title link to Download for FREE from THE BLACK TRUEBRARY

A extraordinary work, decades in the making: the first atlas to illustrate the entire scope of the transatlantic slave trade   Winner of the Association of American Publishers' 2010 R.R. Hawkins Award and PROSE Award   “A monumental chronicle of this historical tragedy.”—Dwight Garner, New York Times   Between 1501 and 1867, the transatlantic slave trade claimed an estimated 12.5 million Africans and involved almost every country with an Atlantic coastline. In this extraordinary book, two leading historians have created the first comprehensive, up-to-date atlas on this 350-year history of kidnapping and coercion. It features nearly 200 maps, especially created for the volume, that explore every detail of the African slave traffic to the New World. The atlas is based on an online database (www.slavevoyages.org) with records on nearly 35,000 slaving voyages—roughly 80 percent of all such voyages ever made.   Using maps, David Eltis and David Richardson show which nations participated in the slave trade, where the ships involved were outfitted, where the captives boarded ship, and where they were landed in the Americas, as well as the experience of the transatlantic voyage and the geographic dimensions of the eventual abolition of the traffic. Accompanying the maps are illustrations and contemporary literary selections, including poems, letters, and diary entries, intended to enhance readers’ understanding of the human story underlying the trade from its inception to its end.   This groundbreaking work provides the fullest possible picture of the extent and inhumanity of one of the largest forced migrations in history.

Click the title link to Download for FREE from THE BLACK TRUEBRARY

[hush-house-yard-sale]

The Hush House Card Catalogue

@baja-blasted @terephin (please ignore the crabs)

//So the software I'm using to keep track of my books, lore bits, etc. is called Seatable! It wasn't my first choice for this project, I'm more familiar with Airtable (I've used it professionally), but Airtable's free plan doesn't let you color-code :c

//Seatable is a website that looks a lot like google sheets, but instead of building a spreadsheet, you're building a database. I knew I wanted a database rather than a spreadsheet for my card catalogue because it became pretty apparent early on that a spreadsheet would mean a lot of duplicate entries and be a lot more work to maintain, as well as monumentally more work if I wanted to use it for reference.

//My database isn't finished, and so I'm not really comfortable making it public, but I'm happy to walk through some of the things that I like most about it, that made me choose to make a database rather than a spreadsheet.

//The main things that were really important to me was being able to have (and filter by) multiple items in the same column, having lots of cross-linking between the different sheets in the base, and having different views depending on what I was looking to reference.

//These are my different tables right now, and the way they work is that each table has the most detailed information on each item, e.g. Books has the most detail on books, and Skills has the most detail on skills. But I have columns in each table that allow me to crosslink between them.

//So for each book, I have listed the skill and memory they give, but instead of writing each out individually it links to the corresponding entry in skills/memories

//And then over in the memories tab it has all the detail on the aspects, which wisdoms it can be committed to...

//...and every book this skill can be found in and every item it can be used to craft. And those boxes can be expanded so they're easier to read as well!

//I can also group and sort things in different views. My default view for books, for example, splits them into two categories—whether I've read the book or not—and then sorts the books in each category alphabetically. But I also have one that groups them all by mystery and then sorts them from low to high, and I have another that groups them by topic. Each of these views also omits columns that aren't relevant to that particular view, for example, if I'm searching for books by mystery to give to a visitor, it's important to know the author because it's fun to give people books they themselves have written, but I don't really care about what memories that book gives, or when I'm trying to connect lore dots, it doesn't matter whether or not the book is cursed and I don't need to include books I haven't read yet (and thus don't have topic tags for). The rows on the topic one are also bigger so I can better read the blurbs.

//Well, the topic one actually groups by location, because when I group it by topic, it splits it into every combination of my topic tags, rather that giving me "here are all your books about the mansus" "here are all your books about Longs and Names" so I've stored them all in different places in the house depending on what books I think are relevant to one another.

//It's still in progress, I don't have everything written down yet, and I want more data for workbenches, and I want to try and see if there's a way for it to, say, auto-match skills/souls to workbenches for committing to the tree or crafting certain recipes. Also my color-coding is in shambles bc I'm waiting for a friend to recover from covid so that they can make me a greasemonkey script to make it a little less... corporate...

//But yeah! I like it a lot, and it works really well for my purposes. I highly recommend trying it out, and I'm happy to answer questions!

[shima-draws]

IF YOU DON'T MIND I am going to talk... about my Kieran-momotaro theory for the Indigo Disk... so IDK how much you've seen of it but there's some pretty compelling evidence of a Momotaro pokemon to round out the Lousy Three in the Teal Mask DLC, and I believe this pokemon is likely the source of the poison chains the three have. But that begs the question, why introduce it in Indigo Disk instead of Teal Mask, where it would fit the setting most? I think that it's because it'll play into Kieran's character arc.

My theory is that Kieran will partner with this Momotaro pokemon during Indigo Disk in his pursuit of strength. Kieran already has a kind of connection to the lousy three, namely that it was HIS rage that brought them back from the dead. We're never really told HOW that happened, whether or not anybody getting mad near the monument would've revived them or whether there was already something about Kieran that made his anger special, but the fact remains that it was specifically Kieran who unintentionally brought them back. Another thing is that, what this Momotaro pokemon does is make others stronger. In Scarlet's dex entries, it goes over how the Lousy Three's chains all enhanced them in different ways- Okidogi got big and buff, Munkidori got really smart, and Fezandipity got... a fabulous new look. But boiled down, these poison chains all made the Lousy Three stronger, which matches Kieran's current pursuit of strength.

So I think Kieran is going to have a literal toxic relationship with this Momotaro pokemon, which makes it really on the nose that this thing's apparent symbol is poisonous chains, and the player is gonna have to beat some sense back into him/get him to snap out of it.

And honestly? The idea that Ogerpon's rejection would drive him to join forces with the ringleader of the pokemon that hurt her the most would make for a DELICIOUSLY ironic character arc

OOOH YEAH I've been seeing theories like this floating around! Also somebody pointed out that for a VERY brief second when Kieran punches the monument his fist glows purple. Whether that was bc the monument was just reacting to his negative emotions OR bc the Momotaro Pokemon was interfering and using Kieran to revive the Lousy Three remains to be seen but there's very compelling evidence that something happened in that moment 👀

I can definitely see the Momotaro Pokemon seeing Kieran's conflict and deciding to use it to its advantage. Idk if Kieran is acting out willingly or if the Momotaro Pokemon is twisting his emotions and really making him have a toxic obsession with strength but I can't WAIT to find out what's going on there.

God I'm SUCH a slut for puppet master situations like this. Is the character in question lashing out of their own free will? Or are they being manipulated to do so? Are they genuinely spiraling due to trauma or abuse or whatever else or are they being drawn into a trap? AGHHH.

Love this theory and your take on it and you are SO right Kieran teaming up with the Momotaro Pokemon would be the cherry on top of the absolute mess of a cake that we've gotten. I need the Indigo Disc YESTERDAY I'm going to lose my mind when it releases

[villainsimpqueen]

Hello, everyone!

I’m thrilled to announce my latest and most ambitious project yet: The Tsyey'na! This extensive evolution tree charts the lineage of my fan clans, starting with the Vonyak, ancestors of the Ivonyok, and branching out all the way to the Barren Lands Na'vi and Parlana'vi. This monumental project will be exclusively available on my Patreon:

Having faced instances of my work being stolen, I'm now taking steps to safeguard my creations. Your support will help me continue developing intricate lore and stories for my fan clans.

Patreon Tiers:

The Deep Dive - $10/month:

- Comprehensive lore for each clan.

- Entry into a bi-monthly contest with exciting prizes such as mystery confetti scoops, handmade glass jewelry by me, or personalized one-shots featuring your OC/sonas with any adult Avatar character (SFW or NSFW).

Fanclan Collaboration Tier - $35/month:

- Access to all fan clan lore monthly.

- Sneak peeks of upcoming fan clan drops and projects.

- Entry into a bi-monthly contest with exciting prizes such as mystery confetti scoops, handmade glass jewelry by me, or personalized one-shots featuring your OC/sonas with any adult Avatar character (SFW or NSFW).

- Permission to create OCs for my fan clans and use my lore without needing explicit permission.

- Your fan clans will be integrated into The Tsyey'na Evolution Tree, showing where they fit in the lineage and their descendants if desired!

Additionally, I’m launching a Discord server for anyone 18 and up who needs help developing their fan clans and OCs. This server is dedicated to fostering creativity, developing lore, and supporting artists and writers. No drama will be tolerated, and swift action will be taken if necessary.

I can't wait to collaborate with you and help bring your fan clans and OCs to life!

Warm regards,

Queen

[theliterarywolf]

Gunna put out an ask for the people, and that includes you Lit!: Got any suggestions for new ARG/Analog Horror series to get into?

On my end, I'll put out:

Angel Hare

Monument Mythos

Winter of '83 (which is actually pretty good when you get past the 'wait, Linkara-Linkara?!' aspect of it)

And, though it would lean more towards an audio-drama, it still has ARG/Analog Horror vibes so I'll add Katy Towell's After The Stars Fell.

Anyone else who has any notable entries (that aren't Urbanspook), feel free to add on.

[docholligay]

What would be your dream race? Real or made up.

Hm, I mean, I would love to run a LOT of the world ones: London I put in for the ballot every year, I would really really love to run the London Monuments half, but I haven't put in for the ballot for it--my grandmother has said she'll help me pay to run London if I get in, but a half marathon is not impressive to her ahaha, and London is the only marathon she gives a shit about that's not Boston (I cannot qualify for Boston)--but someday if I have the free cash I'll probably put in for the monuments half.

Someday, SOMEday, I'll run the Marathon du Medoc, which has oysters and wine and steak and shit along the way, and has people throw up all the time, because it also has a rule I VERY much support: you have to be able to run the marathon in 6:30. That's not crazsy at all, that's only a 14:50 pace, BUT, if you're stopping at everything, as a practical matter you have to have a fair amount of cushion time.

So as a practical matter I'd want to make sure I could run a marathon in a 10 minute mile. That DOES NOT sound impressive. Until it's like, mile 20. (Seriously, if I drew London tomorrow my strategy would be 'survive'. Until beeb is in klindergarten, i don't have the time to train for a marathon. Cutoff for london is a 15 minute mile, I would come up with a run/walk strategy to survive the thing so I didn't DNF)

There are plenty I WOULD run: Paris, Tokyo, I do put in for Chicago, NYC, but those 3 above are probably my "If you said I could run whatever" choices. On the ground right now, whole trip being paid for it would be the Monuments half, because I know I can run a half without trouble. And I LOVE running through cities, especially major cities.

Now, if I had a shit ton of money and I could put on my own race, so looking forward to making everyone SO mad at me:

The Kawaii Ass Bitch Magical Girl Women's Run!

There would be the 5k, 10k, and Half.

There would be a drawing to win a Tokyo Marathon Package with guaranteed entry for the racers. This is, last I looked, worth about 6k.

If you run the 5k, you get one entry, if you run the 10k, you get two entries, if you run the half, you get three.

Anyway, also along the course I would have some cool stuff! At the start of the 10k/Mile 6ish, I would have a bunch of kids in the local band playing some magical girl themes and the like (I would pay them) and at the 5k start/the last 3ish miles for everyone else, I would have a big arch that would be all decorated and everything, and as you run through, there are speakers playing different attacks and power ups and the like from different magical girl properties. There's a spot on the course I'm thiniking of where you would have to go through a tunnel, I light it all up with those LED rolls so it's like a transformation for you.

Maybe before every start the countdown to the start gun would be Zettai Unmei, that sounds fun to me.

Anyway, the last stretch before the finish line would be playing the outers (read: harumichi) transformation music, and I would SOMEHOW figure out how to have fans blowing either fake or real rose petals, depending on the permits I could get ahaha.

Because it would be putting you up to run a marathon, it would presume you are of the athletic quality to run a marathon, at least potentially. So the cutoff times would be as follows. THEY ARE AGGRESSIVE FOR MOST PEOPLE'S TASTES.

5k: 30 minutes

10k: 1 hour 3 minutes

Half: two hours fifteen minutes

If you don't cross the finish line in that time, your name isn't in the randomizer.

Why? I get fucked every time I run the run to the pub by a bunch of 10k slow walkers in the last goddamn mile or so, walking four abreast for funsies. By the time I hit these people, the 10k has been started for AN HOUR AND A HALF. The draw prize is a place in the Dublin marathon, pretty much like what I'm suggesting above. I am bitter about this. I am bitter about fucking slamming into a bunch of people who could not fucking finish the Dublin and killing me when I am at the toughest point of the race, for me. I would hope this would encourage people who want to walk, to walk somewhere else. You can all think I am a villain, and that is fucking fine. There are some years the people who won did not even RUN the race. This INFURIATES me. Hate me! It's cool!

Also there's beer at the end I hate a fucking race without beer at the end.

[scotianostra]

The architect John Thomas Rochead was born on on March 28th 1814 in Edinburgh,

Thomas, the son of John Rochead and Catherine Gibb, was educated at George Heriot's School.

He was responsible for buildings in Glasgow, Hawick, Dumbarton and his native Edinburgh. He is also known for being successful in several competitions including the Royal Arch, Dundee, St Mary’s Free Church, Edinburgh and the Wallace Monument, Stirling. Rochead’s entry for the Stirling competition was a controversial one in that his design was coloured, contrary to the conditions, and exceeded the cost limit by £5,000. And that was just the start as the monument’s contractor became insolvent and poor Rochead never received payment for what is now a major Scottish landmark.

Another of his designs was The Royal Arch on the dockside Dundee, this was sadly demolished in 1932 to make way for the Tay Road Bridge landfall development , the method used was blast it away with explosives but that failed and a large chunk of the arch was left standing, according to what I could dig up they used "other methods" to take the rest of this substantial architecture down

[romeo-golf]

Let me tell you about Pete (Part I)

Pete was a man of considerable size, his frame exuding an air of grandiosity that couldn't be ignored, and he was usually the largest man in any room. Standing at nearly 6' tall and with a circumference of significant girth his every movement seemed to be choreographed in harmony with his ample proportions. His laughter, as contagious as ever, resonated through the air, and sent rippling movements through his body, his gut bouncing in a tight button-up-shirt-hammock over his belt buckle.

Pete had a fairly active job as a building surveyor. Initially, his weight was a mere footnote in his journey, hardly impacting his ability to perform his duties and his jovial demeanour endeared him to all, but Pete was fighting a battle with his willpower and a desire he'd harboured since youth; An irresistible and hormone-laden urge to grow even larger with an appetite for food the likes of which few of his peers could match.

As the years passed Pete's love for indulgence grew. His appetite, once merely the wrong side of healthy, evolved into something formidable and insatiable. Pleasures were sought and savoured through lavish meals and indulgent feasts, often enjoyed alone, at home, wearing nothing but his underpants as he allowed his hands to explore and grope his growing body. As time went by, his connection with food began to shape his very identity.

Pete's body, once sturdy and robust, swelled with each take-away conquest. Layers of flesh enveloped him in a way that could only be described as majestic. His cheeks held a soft plumpness that gave his laughter an extra resonance, a sonorous symphony of mirth that echoed far and wide. His arms, thick and comforting, seemed almost designed to provide bear-like embraces that enveloped those lucky enough to find themselves within them.

One day, Pete's impressive frame found its match in the form of a narrow access hatch on a site he was inspecting. Attempting to navigate a narrow entry during a survey, his generous belly met the frame of the opening firmly, becoming wedged in a moment that left him both embarrassed and proud. Colleagues rallied to his aid, and with a mixture of laughter and good spirits, they managed to extricate him from his awkward predicament. Going home that evening Pete knew he had a choice to make; Continue his career with a little more restraint around the buffet, or take a new path where his lustful desires could take the lead.

Retraining as a coach driver had been on his mind for some time. The allure of extended hours sitting down beckoned to him and some months later, as he settled into the plush driver's seat for the first time, his heart danced with anticipation for the leisurely days that lay ahead.

**

Days turned into weeks, and Pete's fondness for indulgence bore fruit. His once spacious uniforms struggled to contain his ever-expanding frame. Shirts strained at the seams, buttons burst free and ping across the floor every so often, and his trousers clung to him like a second skin. Each article of clothing became a testament to his voracious appetite and the wondrous growth it fuelled.

Navigating the narrow aisles of his coach became a spectacle in itself. His magnificent belly, now a bulging monument to his love for excess, brushed firmly against seats and shoulders, a testament to his unapologetic embodiment of self. Passengers would chuckle good-naturedly as they shifted to accommodate his grandeur, while gossiping in hushed tones to their fellow passengers after he passed.

As his appetite thrived, Pete's joy knew no bounds. He revelled in his expanding form. Meals at roadside diners became cherished rituals and personal challenges. His body buzzed with delight as he embarked on culinary adventures that further fuelled his growth. Pete's passion for food continued to show in his swelling body, a canvas of indulgence painted with stretch marks reflecting each hedonistic feast. The softness of his form, his plump cheeks, and the gentle undulations of his frame created an image that was impossible to ignore. Pete embraced it, treating his own growing form like an expensive hand-spun fabric which deserved affection, attention, and soft caresses.

In a world where societal norms often prescribed restraint, Pete stood proud as an advocate to the liberating power of self-acceptance. His journey, laden with appetite and desire, lust and libido, painted a picture of a man who had found his true north in the pursuit of his own satisfaction. It was a story he knew he'd only just begun to write for himself and he hoped to find the next chapter at the bottom his his Family Feast Chicken Bucket.

Part II: https://www.tumblr.com/romeo-golf/725988133102092288/let-me-tell-you-about-pete-part-ii

[hierohorror]

Journal Entry 155

The pillar of flesh twisted in the distance again, writhing and bending like it was trying to pull itself free from something. Her eyes were fixed on it, mesmerized by the way it moved, almost hypnotic in its sickening grace. She could hear it hum, low and constant, vibrating in the back of her skull.

He took a step closer, though the ground beneath her felt as though it was giving way. The water—was it water?—barely rippled. The faces in the pillar blinked in unison, their hollow eyes tracking every step, every breath she took. A hand, pale and unfamiliar, reached out toward the pillar, trembling slightly. His breath caught in her throat, a cold sweat breaking out along his skin.

Was I always this fragile? She wondered, fingers twitching as he pulled them back. The humming grew louder, the faces grinning wider, as if they knew something I didn’t.

The grinning faces stretched wider still, the twisted mouths gaping in an almost mocking silence. He couldn’t look away now, her heart pounding in his chest, echoing the eerie hum that pulsed through the air. Every instinct screamed to turn back, to move away from this grotesque monument, but her legs—his legs—were rooted in place.

One face, just inches above eye level, twitched. A slow, jerking movement, as if testing the limits of its own grotesque expression. It blinked once, twice, then spoke, though its lips didn’t move. The voice slithered into her ears, soft and scraping at the same time, whispering without words. His blood ran cold, though the air here had no temperature, no life to feel it.

"You are one of us," it said—or did it? She couldn’t tell anymore, the line between thought and sound blurring in his head. "You are nothing, and everything. You *will* return."

Her heart skipped a beat, or perhaps it stopped entirely. The ground beneath him rippled, not like water anymore but like skin stretching over bone. The faces on the pillar began to laugh, mouths opening wider, soundless yet deafening in the silence. She stumbled back, breath quickening, eyes wide, but the faces followed, always staring, always smiling.

"I don’t belong here," he whispered, though the words felt hollow even to her.

The pillar’s writhing slowed, its sickening movements becoming deliberate, purposeful. One final, twisted grin met his gaze directly, and her legs finally responded, propelling her backward, away from the pillar. She ran—if it could be called running in this thick, impossible space—until the humming faded, until the faces were no more than blurred memories in the distance.

But even as the silence settled once more, she knew. He was one of them now.

[thegreatsurvey]

I'd lived on the plains my entire life but had never seen the base of the tower. Besides it basically standing as a monument to the ruling structuralists, the entire idea of a tower invalidated our existence as plain-tenders, thus negating any curiosity or good will amongst the plainards it otherwise might have attracted. Providing a one-stop shop for travellers and outsiders, the commercial potential for a tower was obvious and not under dispute. The problem was that it not only stole the vast majority of commerce from the plainsmen's communities but essentially acted as a de-facto extension of the ruling state, dissolving the autonomy that had brought the plains their unique history and makeup. There's no need to cultivate the sands when the tower can provide the sustenance needed, constantly resupplied through a never-ending parade of vehicles and caravans. There's no need for a herdsman's knowledge when food is provided, slaughter-free, from one of a thousand restaurant options. There's no need for time-tested cultural tradition when the tower can import the latest and greatest technology and entertainment at a moment's notice. It's not necessarily that a tower and the Plainards couldn't co-exist, its that the structuralists don't want to and see no reason for an "old-fashioned" way of life. When a tower (or a hundred) can provide everything a population needs while also offering absolute control and oversight of the wild lands to the ruling class, there's no wonder why the tower system continues to grow or why the plainsman's reign in the region will soon come to an end. Today we travelled the last few miles to the Rift and, for the first time, glimpsed the base of the monumental structure. Our request for entry will soon be accepted and for the first and possibly last time, the Plainards will step off of solid ground.

[busvilla]

“Mumbai by Bus: Top October Destinations for an Unforgettable Journey”

Exploring Mumbai in October is a wonderful experience, and travelling around Mumbai by bus is a great way to soak in the city’s charm without breaking the bank. The post-monsoon weather is cool and pleasant, making it the best time to explore tourist places in Mumbai. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the first time, this list of the best places to visit in Mumbai by bus will help you plan an exciting day out. Opt for a local bus or even a minibus from TransRentals for a more personalized trip to these iconic spots!

1. Marine Drive

Location: South Mumbai

Famous For: Scenic coastline, stunning sunsets, and night views.

Things to Do: Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoy the cool sea breeze, or relax on the parapet as the city lights up in the evening.

Trip Duration: 1–2 hours

Budget: Minimal, as it’s a free attraction.

Must Try Foods: Enjoy some Bhel Puri, Pav Bhaji, or refreshing coconut water from the street vendors.

Marine Drive, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” is one of the best places to visit in Mumbai. Stretching for about 3.6 km along the Arabian Sea, it offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Taking a bus to Marine Drive is a great way to enjoy the coastal route. During October, the cool breeze and clear skies make it perfect for an evening stroll, capturing the beauty of the iconic curve of the promenade. This tourist places in Mumbai comes alive at sunset, making it a must-visit spot when exploring Mumbai by bus.

2. Gateway of India

Location: Apollo Bunder, Colaba

Famous For: Historical landmark, impressive architecture, and beautiful sea views.

Things to Do: Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves, capture photos of the Gateway’s grand structure, or just sit back and observe the lively atmosphere around this iconic spot.

Trip Duration: 2–3 hours

Budget: Free for the monument; ferry charges vary.

Must Try Foods: Savor some authentic Bombay Sandwich and cutting chai nearby.

The Gateway of India is a prime example of Mumbai’s colonial past and one of the best places to visit in Mumbai. It stands majestically overlooking the Arabian Sea and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Taking a bus or minibus to Colaba is convenient, giving you a chance to explore nearby attractions like the Colaba Causeway and the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. October is a great time to visit as the post-monsoon weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively less, making it one of the best places to visit in October.

3. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Location: Borivali East

Famous For: Rich biodiversity, Kanheri Caves, and nature trails.

Things to Do: Take a toy train ride, explore the ancient Kanheri Caves, go on a nature walk, or enjoy a serene boating experience at the park’s lake.

Trip Duration: 4–5 hours

Budget: Entry fee of ₹53 for adults and additional charges for the toy train and boating.

Must Try Foods: Bring your own picnic or enjoy some light snacks available at the park’s entrance.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a top destination to visit by bus. This vast green oasis is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it one of the best places to visit in Mumbai for nature lovers. A minibus journey through Borivali brings you to the park’s gates, where you can explore the lush trails and spot wildlife. October is the best time to visit as the park is refreshed by the monsoon rains, and the greenery is at its peak. The ancient Kanheri Caves within the park add a touch of history to your adventure, making this a perfect tourist places in Mumbai.

4. Worli Sea Face

Location: Worli, Mumbai

Famous For: Panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

Things to Do: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the promenade, capture photos of the stunning sea link, or relax at one of the seating areas while watching the waves crash.

Trip Duration: 1–2 hours

Budget: Free

Must Try Foods: Relish some Chana Chaat or Ice Gola from the local vendors.

Worli Sea Face is a serene location that offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Known for its stunning views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, it’s a favorite among Mumbaikars and tourists alike. Arriving at this spot by bus lets you enjoy the changing skyline of Mumbai as you move through bustling neighborhoods. October’s clear skies make this a perfect month to capture some amazing photos. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Mumbai to relax and soak in the beauty of the sea.

5. Bandra Bandstand

Location: Bandra West

Famous For: Celebrity residences, Mount Mary Church, and sea views.

Things to Do: Walk along the promenade, spot Bollywood stars’ homes, visit the iconic Mount Mary Church, and capture sunset views by the Bandra Fort.

Trip Duration: 2–3 hours

Budget: Free

Must Try Foods: Indulge in some Vada Pav and Bun Maska from the famous cafes and street food stalls around Bandra.

Bandra Bandstand is a lively spot filled with people enjoying the cool sea breeze and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. It’s also famous for being home to some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. Arriving by bus allows you to explore Bandra’s trendy streets and vibrant culture. October’s mild weather makes it one of the best places to visit in October if you want to experience the celebrity charm of Mumbai.

6. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS)

Location: Fort, South Mumbai

Famous For: Extensive collection of historical artifacts, art, and sculptures.

Things to Do: Explore exhibits on Indian history, art, and culture, and admire the Indo-Saracenic architecture of the museum building.

Trip Duration: 2–3 hours

Budget: ₹70 for Indian citizens; ₹500 for foreign nationals.

Must Try Foods: Visit the museum café for some quick bites and coffee.

This premier museum is a treasure trove of history and culture, making it one of the best places to visit in Mumbai. A visit to CSMVS by bus gives you a chance to explore the historic Fort area. With its extensive collection of sculptures, textiles, and artifacts, it’s an excellent destination for history enthusiasts. The post-monsoon climate in October ensures that both the museum and its gardens are delightful to explore.

7. Juhu Beach

Location: Juhu, Mumbai

Famous For: Long sandy beach, street food, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Things to Do: Take a stroll on the beach, enjoy horse rides, or try famous Mumbai street food like Pani Puri, Sev Puri, and Pav Bhaji.

Trip Duration: 2–3 hours

Budget: Free entry; food costs vary.

Must Try Foods: Don’t miss the delicious Gola and Mumbai-style Bhel.

Juhu Beach is one of the most popular tourist places in Mumbai. Taking a minibus or bus to Juhu allows you to experience the bustling streets of the suburbs. The beach is famous for its lively atmosphere, and October’s cool breeze makes it perfect for an evening outing. Enjoy the best street food, soak in the sunset, and watch the locals play cricket or fly kites.

Exploring Mumbai by bus not only saves money but also offers a chance to see the city through a local’s eyes. From historic landmarks to serene sea views, these best places to visit in Mumbai are ideal for creating unforgettable memories in October!

Travel Tips for Exploring Mumbai by Bus in October

Start Early: Traffic in Mumbai can get heavy, so start your journey early to make the most of your day.

Use Local Apps: Use apps like BEST Bus Guide or M-indicator to find the right bus routes and schedules.

Carry Essentials: Keep a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat handy as October can sometimes be sunny.

Plan Your Meals: Mumbai is known for its street food. Plan your meal stops accordingly to taste the local flavors.

Bus Fares: Local bus fares in Mumbai are quite affordable, ranging between ₹5 to ₹50 depending on the distance. Opt for an AC bus for a more comfortable journey.

Exploring Mumbai in October by bus allows you to experience the city’s unique charm, vibrant culture, and picturesquebeauty without breaking the bank. Plan your route, hop on a bus, and get ready for an unforgettable journey across Mumbai’s top destinations!

[indiatriangletours]

How to Choose the Best Golden Triangle India Tour Packages?

India Triangle Tours - Mystic India Tourism

Embarking on the Golden Triangle India Tour is a journey through the rich cultural tapestry of India, offering an unparalleled experience of history, architecture, and vibrant traditions. Choosing the best Golden Triangle India Tour Packages can elevate your travel experience, making it memorable and hassle-free. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the ideal tour package for an unforgettable adventure.

1. Understand What the Golden Triangle Tour Entails

Before diving into the details of selecting a tour package, it’s essential to understand what the Golden Triangle encompasses. The tour covers three iconic cities:

Delhi: The capital city, a blend of ancient history and modern marvels.

Agra: Home to the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of love.

Jaipur: The Pink City, known for its majestic forts and palaces.

These cities form a triangle on the map, hence the name Golden Triangle. Each city offers unique experiences, from Delhi’s bustling markets and historical monuments to Agra’s Mughal architecture and Jaipur’s royal heritage.

2. Determine Your Budget

Golden Triangle India Tour Packages vary widely in price, catering to different budgets. Decide on your budget before starting your search. Consider factors like accommodation, transportation, meals, entry fees to tourist attractions, and additional activities such as guided tours or cultural shows. A clear budget will help narrow down your options and ensure you get the best value for your money.

3. Choose the Right Duration

Tour packages can range from a quick 3-day trip to an extensive 10-day exploration. Determine how much time you have and what you want to see. A shorter tour will focus on the highlights, while a longer one will offer a more in-depth experience, including visits to lesser-known attractions and more leisure time to soak in the local culture.

4. Look for Customization Options

A good tour operator should offer customizable Golden Triangle India Tour Packages. Customization allows you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences, adding or removing destinations and activities based on your interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, a customizable package ensures you get the most out of your trip.

5. Check the Inclusions and Exclusions

Carefully review what is included in the tour package. Key inclusions to look for are:

Accommodation (hotel ratings, location, amenities)

Transportation (type of vehicle, comfort level, driver’s expertise)

Meals (number of meals per day, type of cuisine)

Sightseeing tours (entry fees, guide services)

Any special activities (cultural shows, workshops)

Also, check for exclusions such as personal expenses, optional tours, and tipping. Knowing what’s included will prevent any unexpected costs and help you plan your budget better.

6. Read Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the quality of the tour packages. Look for reviews on trusted travel websites and social media platforms. Pay attention to feedback about the tour operator’s reliability, quality of service, and overall customer satisfaction. Positive reviews from past travelers are a good indicator of a reputable tour operator.

7. Evaluate the Tour Operator’s Experience and Expertise

Choose a tour operator with extensive experience and expertise in organizing Golden Triangle tours. Experienced operators like India Triangle Tours - Mystic India Tourism have in-depth knowledge of the destinations, ensuring a well-planned and smooth travel experience. They can provide valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to enhance your trip.

8. Consider Group Size and Travel Style

Tour packages can be group tours or private tours. Group tours are more affordable and offer the chance to meet new people, while private tours provide a more personalized and flexible experience. Decide which travel style suits you best. Also, consider the group size for group tours – smaller groups often provide a more intimate and enjoyable experience.

9. Check for Safety and Support

Ensure the tour operator prioritizes safety and offers reliable customer support. Look for packages that include travel insurance, well-maintained vehicles, experienced drivers, and knowledgeable guides. Reliable customer support is crucial in case of any issues or emergencies during your trip.

Conclusion

Selecting the best Golden Triangle India Tour Packages involves careful consideration of various factors, from budget and duration to customization options and safety measures. By following this guide, you can find a tour package that aligns with your preferences and ensures a memorable journey through India’s iconic Golden Triangle. For a seamless and enriching experience, consider India Triangle Tours - Mystic India Tourism, a trusted provider with a reputation for excellence in Golden Triangle tours. Happy travels!

[sp-brawlpinions]

Best BS Animations Tournament Masterpost

I will be pinning this list on this blog. I have left out a few animations, because I feel they weren’t worthwhile enough to count as one. My criteria was “Is it animated” and a slightly stricter one “Does it add anything new”.

I have now created the match-ups. If anyone has any animations that I have missed and thinks it should be in the tournament, I am open to suggestions up until round one is officially over.

Send a dm, ask, or any other way you wish to contact me on tumblr. :)

I have paired up animations that have enough in common, have the same tone, or is implied to take place as a direct sequel/correlation. If one of the paired up ones is the winner, I will then pit those two against each other.

So... Here are the current entries!

Edit: Darryl's Barrels is OUT. I added Rosa’s Debut in lieu of it. Credit to @wheatleylabs010 for the reminder.

~~~

1) No Time to Explain

2) Happy Brawlidays! Light it up!

3) Sakura Spike Series (Meeting, Blossom Ball, Scenic Train, Shopping Outbursts, Spring Sniffles)

4) Welcome to Retropolis!

5) Breached Beach (Bizzare, Doom...ish Day, Mecha Mayhem)

6) Brawl-o-ween: Mortis' Mortuary!

7) Pirate Brawlidays!

8) Free Skin! Enter: Red Dragon Jessie!

9) Summer of Monsters!

10) Piper's Sugar and Spice!

11) Barley's Last Call

12) Amber in: "This is Fine..."

13) Brawl Stars x Line Skins Series (Monumental Team Up!, We've Got Your Back!)

14) Happy Brawlidays! Cold Reception!

15) The Goldarm Heist

16) Buzz's Debut & Buzz Saves the Day!

17) China's First Anniversary!

18) Bad Randoms: We Won't Cooperate!

19) Welcome to the Castle!

20) Brawl-O-Ween Stories!

21) Happy Brawlidays! Symphony of Chaos

22) Year of the Tiger 1+2 (Press Start, Final Round)

23) My Sweet Brawlentine

24) Eve's Debut & The Biodome!

25) Janet & Bonnie's Debut + The Stunt Show!

26) Sam's Debut & Partners in Crime

27) Last Stand!

28) Hank's Debut

29) Train to Nowhere

30) License to Brawl

31) Dark Brawlidays & Last Minute Thievery!

32) Good Randoms!: The One

33) Brawl Stars x BT21

34) Otis' Debut & Deep Sea Brawl

35) Parc des Princes!

36) Community Made Video! (Flash warning!)

37) BSC 2020 Trailer

38) Free Skin!: Wizard Barleys Fired Up!

39) 'Who Stole the Trophy?' Saga

40) Brawl Esports: Fighter

41) BSC: 2021 Trailer: Let's Go!

42) BSC: 2022 Trailer: Rise to the Top!

43) Sandy's Rap: Still Dreaming

44) Stu's Debut + BSC Ads: Stu's Spectacular School of Driving

45) BSC Ads: Byron's Snazzy Snake Oil

46) BSC Ads: Join Starr Force!

47) BSC Ads: Gimnasio Primo (In English, for the quality, and here it is in Spanish, because I think it sounds better.)

48) Meg's Debut

49) BSC Ads: Junker Garage

50) Gray's Debut

51) BSC Ads: Mortis' Tombstones

52) Mecha Mortis!

53) BSC Ads: Barley's Bar Behavior

54) Rosa's Debut

55) Lola's Debut

56) Grom's Debut

57) Ash's Debut

58) Mandy & Chester's Debut

59) R-T's Debut

60) Willow's Debut

61) The Rescue

62) Maisie's Debut

63) Buster's Debut

64) Snapdragon Mobile: To the End