#greatest catcher IN THE GAME

[feddy-34]

HOLY MOTHER OF GOD PATRICK BAILEY

[thejakeformerlyknownasprince]

so, about that baseball au? 👀

Tobias plays right field. It's all about those insanely long catches and those even more insanely long throws. He's fast and light, able to spot a ball in the air and be sprinting to intercept it well before it's even reached the top of its arc. Tobias can not only run and not only throw, but he can jump like nobody's business to intercept a ball in the air. He can't snatch every single home run that clears the top wall, but if it clears the wall by less than 12 inches, you bet that he'll be there making one hell of a grab to intercept it. What he lacks in power he makes up for with speed and accuracy.

Marco is their starting pitcher. He can coordinate and communicate, but more importantly he can be tricky. Marco's the classic ambidextrous change-up knuckleball trickster, not the fastest fastball thrower but an absolute expert in lying with his body about where the ball's going and how it'll be spinning when it gets there. Pitching is about dividing attention between the guy inching down the third-base line, the catcher throwing signals, and the batter getting into position. The ability to read all that, and to hide a fastball in a curved-looking throw, is where Marco excels.

Rachel bats cleanup. She plays center field as well, but her strength is in batting. Her greatest weakness is her greatest strength: she swings at too many pitches. That runs the risk of strikeouts, but it also means that she can sometimes turn a curveball into a double or even a home run. She's the power hitter, able to rocket pitches into the nosebleed section often enough that she sells more t-shirts than the rest of her team combined. That said, when all else fails she can also be counted on to make a sacrifice bunt.

Ax is on third base. It's a position that requires keeping a close eye on the batter and the infield all at once, managing the risk of steals while also being ready to intercept smash hits. Above all, being on third base requires being fast: able to grab a 120 MPH hit out of the air and wing it back to a teammate before there's even time for the runner to think about making it to first. Third basemen are likely to go overlooked, but they're crucially important for the defense of the whole infield.

Jake catches. It's the position most associated with being able to take punishment. Runners collide with you, pitches hit you, backswings can take you out, and your knees are shot to hell within five years. But the catcher faces the field, and the catcher has to communicate with the field. The main line of contact is with the pitcher, everything from requesting pitches to signaling an impending steal, but the catcher has to be able to shout to the field as a whole with a second's notice. The catcher is up and down, up and down, throughout the game, and the catcher has to decide judiciously when to argue with the umpire.

Cassie is their shortstop. Of course. This position is all about support, about being where your teammates are not so that they can focus on covering their own bases. Shortstops have to be flexible, to float between positions and play backup to the basemen and outfielders alike. Shortstops are the most overlooked, the least understood, the most likely to be dropped from Little League teams that are short on players. But an actual MLB team cannot function without a shortstop, because their ill-defined role is actually to hold the entire rest of the defensive team together.

[irekkai]

TRIUMVIRATE / ТРИУМВИРАТ

I've made a Pathologic 2 playlist dedicated to the intersections and the symmetries in the paths of the three healers. Every three songs are tied to a single in-game concept, entity or event: the first one always views it from the Bachelor's POV, the second - from the Haruspex', the third - from the Changeling's. Fair warning: it's a WIP and all the songs are in Russian. More details under the cut!

(Плейлист на второй Мор, посвященный пересечениям и симметриям в ветках трех целителей. На каждую общую для всех троих идею/событие/тему отводится по тр�� песни: первая всегда с точки зрения Бакалавра, вторая - Гаруспика, третья - Самозванки. Все песни на русском, в основном рок и фолк. Буду рад вопросам и идеям. Подробности под катом.)

SPOTIFY // YOUTUBE

In English:

1. The scene The town: Кино - Звезда по имени Солнце Home: ДДТ - Родина The playground: Мельница - Гори, Москва!

2. Three healers The thanatologist: Борис Гребенщиков - Не Судьба The prodigal son: Умка и Броневик - Нет никакой другой The sister: Flёur - Формалин

3. The Bound The idealists: Nautilus Pompilius - Скованные одной цепью The street orphans: Кино - Дальше действовать будем мы The obedient: Монеточка - Русский ковчег

4. Curfew At the Broken Heart with the Stamatins: Борис Гребенщиков - На ржавом ветру At the Apple Basket with the gang: ДДТ - Уездный город At the Rod with the Saburovs: Кино - Спокойная ночь

5. Getting into character Asklēpiós: Мельница - Кащей The Ripper: Пикник - Только не плачь, палач The saint: Немного Нервно - Хороший человек идет на войну

6. Two hands clutch the head (Burakhovsky) Left hand: Гр. Полухутенко - Ария Right hand: Сплин - Романс The eyes: Flёur - Колыбельная для зла

7. The miracles The Polyhedron: Кукрыниксы - Хрустальный мир The earth: Мельница - Двери Тамерлана The answer: Ольга Арефьева и Ковчег - Дорога в рай

8. Two sides The utopia: Аффинаж - Ангел The future: Оргия Пра��едников - The catcher in the rye Salvation: Немного Нервно - Жанна

9. Parting of ways (Burakhovsky) To leave: Земфира - жди меня To stay and fight: Flёur - Кто-то To remember: Юта - Жили-были

10. At the Cathedral Nobody: Сплин - Выхода нет The Inquisitor: Сплин - Она была так прекрасна The General: Flёur - Мы никогда не умрем

11. Desperation The greatest deception: Борис Гребенщиков - Темный как ночь Any choice is right as long as it is predetermined: Гражданская оборона - Все идет по плану A lullaby for the darkest hour: Порнофильмы - Это пройдет

12.1. Nocturnal ending The townspeople: Борис Гребенщиков - Вечное Возвращение The Kin: Гражданская оборона - Долгая счастливая жизнь The plague: Оргия Праведников - Ничего нет прекраснее смерти

12.2. Diurnal ending Polyhedron's shards: Nautilus Pompilius - Я хочу быть с тобой Town on spilled blood: Ольга Арефьева и Ковчег - Никто не умер, никто не ожил A requiem for the miracles: ДДТ - Это все

Coda. All over again I'm staying: Гр. Полухутенко - После всего I'll remember: ДДТ - Новая жизнь I promise: Flёur - Сегодня

На русском:

1. Место действия Город: Кино - Звезда по имени Солнце Дом: ДДТ - Родина Песочница: Мельница - Гори, Москва!

2. Три целителя Танатолог: Борис Гребенщиков - Не Судьба Блудный сын: Умка и Броневик - Нет никакой другой Сестрица: Flёur - Формалин

3. Приближенные Идеалисты: Nautilus Pompilius - Скованные одной цепью Дети улиц: Кино - Дальше действовать будем мы Покорные: Монеточка - Русский ковчег

4. Комендантский час В Разбитом сердце со Стаматиными: Борис Гребенщиков - На ржавом ветру Возле Корзинки с друзьями: ДДТ - Уездный город В Стержне у Сабуровых: Кино - Спокойная ночь

5. Вхождение в роль Ἀσκληπιός: Мельница - Кащей Потрошитель: Пикник - Только не плачь, палач Святая: Немного нервно - Хороший человек идет на войну

6. Две руки ухватились за голову (Бурах/Данковский) Левая рука: Гр. Полухутенко - Ария Правая рука: Сплин - Романс Глаза: Flёur - Колыбельная для зла

7. Чудеса Многогранник: Кукрыниксы - Хрустальный мир Земля: ДДТ - Помнишь Ответ: Ольга Арефьева и Ковчег - Дорога в рай

8. Две стороны Утопия: Аффинаж - Ангел Будущее: Оргия Праведников - The catcher in the rye Спасение: Немного Нервно - Жанна

9. Пути расходятся (Бурах/Данковский) Уходить: Земфира - жди меня Оставаться и бороться: Flёur - Кто-то Помнить: Юта - Жили-были

10. В Соборе Никого: Сплин - Выхода нет Инквизитор: Сплин - Она была так прекрасна Генерал: Flёur - Мы никогда не умрем

11. Отчаяние Величайшая ложь: Борис Гребенщиков - Темный как ночь Предопределение делает любой выбор правильным: Гражданская оборона - Все идет по плану Колыбельная в самый страшный час: Порнофильмы - Это пройдет

12.1. Ночная концовка Г��рожане: Борис Гребенщиков - Вечное Возвращение Уклад: Гражданская оборона - Долгая счастливая жизнь Чума: Оргия Праведников - Ничего нет прекраснее смерти

12.2. Дневная концовка Осколки Многогранника: Nautilus Pompilius - Я хочу быть с тобой Город на крови: Ольга Арефьева и Ковчег - Никто не умер, никто не ожил Реквием по чудесам: ДДТ - Это все

Кода. Все сначала Я остаюсь: Гр. Полухутенко - После всего Я буду помнить: ДДТ - Новая жизнь Я обещаю: Flёur - Сегодня

[simply-ivanka]

"The only man who could have caught that ball just hit it." - Remembering Willie Howard Mays

“Mays is the only man in baseball I’d pay to see play.” — Ty Cobb

“Willie Mays is the greatest ballplayer I’ve ever seen. I never saw Joe DiMaggio play, but if Joe DiMaggio was better than Willie Mays, he belongs in Heaven.” — Roberto Clemente

“Outside of Joe DiMaggio, Willie Mays is the greatest all-around baseball player of my time. Certainly, he’s been the most daring. Mays would steal home, a tough play and one in which you’ve got a great chance to look bad. Willie didn’t even think of that, he’d just go. Nine times out of ten, he’d make it.” — Mickey Mantle

“You used to think if the score was 5-0, [Mays] would hit a five-run homer.” — Reggie Jackson

“[Mays] scooped the ball up at the base of the 406-foot sign, whirled and fired. It came in on one bounce, directly in front of the plate, and into the glove of catcher Tom Haller, who put it on the astonished Willie Stargell. It was described by old-timers as the greatest throw ever made in ancient Forbes Field.” — Bob Stevens, San Francisco Chronicle, August 25, 1965

“I couldn’t believe Mays could throw that far. I figured there had to be a relay. Then I found out there wasn’t. He’s too good for this world.” — Willie Stargell

“They invented the All-Star Game for Willie Mays.” — Ted Williams

“Willie Mays, to me, was the best ballplayer I ever saw in my life. …Nobody in the history of baseball is going to see anyone like Willie Mays. Everybody loved Willie in the clubhouse. Willie used to do a lot of things for different players, especially the rookies. Willie used to take players to clothing stores to buy them clothes. Sometimes he would get free clothes, shoes, and stuff, and give them to the players. He was like the mother of the team.” - Juan Marichal

"Willie Mays was to me the greatest player I ever watched. People ask me that, and I don't hesitate....he could have been an All-Star shortstop, that's how good an athlete he was...he could run backwards as fast as he could forward." - Don Zimmer

"If somebody came up and hit .450, stole 100 bases, and performed a miracle in the field every day, I'd still look you right in the eye and tell you that Willie was better” - Leo Durocher

"The best Major League ballplayer I ever saw was Willie Mays. Ruth beat you with the bat. Ted Williams beat you with the bat. Joe DiMaggio beat you with the bat, his glove and his arm. But Willie Mays could beat you with the bat, with power, his glove, his arm and with the running. He could beat you any way that's possible." - Buck O'Neil

“Hopefully, they can say, ‘There goes the best baseball player in the world.’ I honestly believe I did everything in baseball that a baseball player can do, and I did it with love.” — Willie Mays

[klemannlee]

"The only man who could have caught that ball just hit it." - Remembering Willie Howard Mays

“Mays is the only man in baseball I’d pay to see play.” — Ty Cobb

“Willie Mays is the greatest ballplayer I’ve ever seen. I never saw Joe DiMaggio play, but if Joe DiMaggio was better than Willie Mays, he belongs in Heaven.” — Roberto Clemente

“Outside of Joe DiMaggio, Willie Mays is the greatest all-around baseball player of my time. Certainly, he’s been the most daring. Mays would steal home, a tough play and one in which you’ve got a great chance to look bad. Willie didn’t even think of that, he’d just go. Nine times out of ten, he’d make it.” — Mickey Mantle

“You used to think if the score was 5-0, [Mays] would hit a five-run homer.” — Reggie Jackson

“[Mays] scooped the ball up at the base of the 406-foot sign, whirled and fired. It came in on one bounce, directly in front of the plate, and into the glove of catcher Tom Haller, who put it on the astonished Willie Stargell. It was described by old-timers as the greatest throw ever made in ancient Forbes Field.” — Bob Stevens, San Francisco Chronicle, August 25, 1965

“I couldn’t believe Mays could throw that far. I figured there had to be a relay. Then I found out there wasn’t. He’s too good for this world.” — Willie Stargell

“They invented the All-Star Game for Willie Mays.” — Ted Williams

“Willie Mays, to me, was the best ballplayer I ever saw in my life. …Nobody in the history of baseball is going to see anyone like Willie Mays. Everybody loved Willie in the clubhouse. Willie used to do a lot of things for different players, especially the rookies. Willie used to take players to clothing stores to buy them clothes. Sometimes he would get free clothes, shoes, and stuff, and give them to the players. He was like the mother of the team.” - Juan Marichal

"Willie Mays was to me the greatest player I ever watched. People ask me that, and I don't hesitate....he could have been an All-Star shortstop, that's how good an athlete he was...he could run backwards as fast as he could forward." - Don Zimmer

"If somebody came up and hit .450, stole 100 bases, and performed a miracle in the field every day, I'd still look you right in the eye and tell you that Willie was better” - Leo Durocher

"The only man who could have caught that ball just hit it." - Remembering Willie Howard Mays

“Mays is the only man in baseball I’d pay to see play.” — Ty Cobb

“Willie Mays is the greatest ballplayer I’ve ever seen. I never saw Joe DiMaggio play, but if Joe DiMaggio was better than Willie Mays, he belongs in Heaven.” — Roberto Clemente

“Outside of Joe DiMaggio, Willie Mays is the greatest all-around baseball player of my time. Certainly, he’s been the most daring. Mays would steal home, a tough play and one in which you’ve got a great chance to look bad. Willie didn’t even think of that, he’d just go. Nine times out of ten, he’d make it.” — Mickey Mantle

“You used to think if the score was 5-0, [Mays] would hit a five-run homer.” — Reggie Jackson

“[Mays] scooped the ball up at the base of the 406-foot sign, whirled and fired. It came in on one bounce, directly in front of the plate, and into the glove of catcher Tom Haller, who put it on the astonished Willie Stargell. It was described by old-timers as the greatest throw ever made in ancient Forbes Field.” — Bob Stevens, San Francisco Chronicle, August 25, 1965

“I couldn’t believe Mays could throw that far. I figured there had to be a relay. Then I found out there wasn’t. He’s too good for this world.” — Willie Stargell

“They invented the All-Star Game for Willie Mays.” — Ted Williams

“Willie Mays, to me, was the best ballplayer I ever saw in my life. …Nobody in the history of baseball is going to see anyone like Willie Mays. Everybody loved Willie in the clubhouse. Willie used to do a lot of things for different players, especially the rookies. Willie used to take players to clothing stores to buy them clothes. Sometimes he would get free clothes, shoes, and stuff, and give them to the players. He was like the mother of the team.” - Juan Marichal

"Willie Mays was to me the greatest player I ever watched. People ask me that, and I don't hesitate....he could have been an All-Star shortstop, that's how good an athlete he was...he could run backwards as fast as he could forward." - Don Zimmer

"If somebody came up and hit .450, stole 100 bases, and performed a miracle in the field every day, I'd still look you right in the eye and tell you that Willie was better” - Leo Durocher

"The best Major League ballplayer I ever saw was Willie Mays. Ruth beat you with the bat. Ted Williams beat you with the bat. Joe DiMaggio beat you with the bat, his glove and his arm. But Willie Mays could beat you with the bat, with power, his glove, his arm and with the running. He could beat you any way that's possible." - Buck O'Neil

"The best Major League ballplayer I ever saw was Willie Mays. Ruth beat you with the bat. Ted Williams beat you with the bat. Joe DiMaggio beat you with the bat, his glove and his arm. But Willie Mays could beat you with the bat, with power, his glove, his arm and with the running. He could beat you any way that's possible." - Buck O'Neil

“Hopefully, they can say, ‘There goes the best baseball player in the world.’ I honestly believe I did everything in baseball that a baseball player can do, and I did it with love.” — Willie Mays

[tododeku-or-bust]

🪲 ⇢ add 50 words to your current wip and share the paragraph here

I'm not feeling too well so no original writing, but you can have this very first draft notes quote from my upcoming sequel fic to Bump and Run!

Achilles should have known, he should have known that his friends were up to no good. Because Philia slowly approaches him, apologetic. She reaches for his hand, gripping it with both of hers.

“Hey, Daddy?”

Sigh. “Yes, sweetheart.”

“I’m sorry. I know why you don’t want to play anymore.”

“Why?”

And in the middle of a crowd that has all subtly turned to eavesdrop upon his business, Philia loudly states:

“I didn’t mean to embarrass you, Daddy. I’m sorry. It’s okay that you can’t play football. I know you didn’t want to disappoint me, but I’m not mad at you.”

The world seems to go quiet, only the sound of Patroclus’ awkward sigh in his ears.

His heart just about stops, torn between happiness- she was so quick to pity- heartbreak- no wait, Daddy can do it, please- and sheer mortification that she means this. That dickhead convinced his daughter he can’t play football!

“He was a catcher, not a thrower,” Automedon comments, trying not to break down at the double entendre.

“Philia, dearest.” Achilles tries to smile through his indignation. “This is about you learning to be careful with your money, not my abilities. I played for three years. Starting position, freshman year, set records they have yet to beat, regardless of secondary gender.”

(When you were one of the Greatest collegiate football players of your time, but your ten year old thinks you can't win a carnival throwing game)

[dinosaurwithablog]

Michael Kay and Paul O'Neil are now interviewing 5 time World Champion, Jorge Posasa, one of the greatest catchers to play the game. He's sitting next to Paul O'Neil, thanking him for all the help and support that Paul gave to him and all the players. That's a beautiful moment, indeed. I love seeing all the retired players here for Old Timer's Day! Let's go Yankees!!!!!

[coolcarsntrucksngunsnusa]

"The only man who could have caught that ball just hit it." - Remembering Willie Howard Mays

“Mays is the only man in baseball I’d pay to see play.” — Ty Cobb

“Willie Mays is the greatest ballplayer I’ve ever seen. I never saw Joe DiMaggio play, but if Joe DiMaggio was better than Willie Mays, he belongs in Heaven.” — Roberto Clemente

“Outside of Joe DiMaggio, Willie Mays is the greatest all-around baseball player of my time. Certainly, he’s been the most daring. Mays would steal home, a tough play and one in which you’ve got a great chance to look bad. Willie didn’t even think of that, he’d just go. Nine times out of ten, he’d make it.” — Mickey Mantle

“You used to think if the score was 5-0, [Mays] would hit a five-run homer.” — Reggie Jackson

“[Mays] scooped the ball up at the base of the 406-foot sign, whirled and fired. It came in on one bounce, directly in front of the plate, and into the glove of catcher Tom Haller, who put it on the astonished Willie Stargell. It was described by old-timers as the greatest throw ever made in ancient Forbes Field.” — Bob Stevens, San Francisco Chronicle, August 25, 1965

“I couldn’t believe Mays could throw that far. I figured there had to be a relay. Then I found out there wasn’t. He’s too good for this world.” — Willie Stargell

“They invented the All-Star Game for Willie Mays.” — Ted Williams

“Willie Mays, to me, was the best ballplayer I ever saw in my life. …Nobody in the history of baseball is going to see anyone like Willie Mays. Everybody loved Willie in the clubhouse. Willie used to do a lot of things for different players, especially the rookies. Willie used to take players to clothing stores to buy them clothes. Sometimes he would get free clothes, shoes, and stuff, and give them to the players. He was like the mother of the team.” - Juan Marichal

"Willie Mays was to me the greatest player I ever watched. People ask me that, and I don't hesitate....he could have been an All-Star shortstop, that's how good an athlete he was...he could run backwards as fast as he could forward." - Don Zimmer

"If somebody came up and hit .450, stole 100 bases, and performed a miracle in the field every day, I'd still look you right in the eye and tell you that Willie was better” - Leo Durocher

"The best Major League ballplayer I ever saw was Willie Mays. Ruth beat you with the bat. Ted Williams beat you with the bat. Joe DiMaggio beat you with the bat, his glove and his arm. But Willie Mays could beat you with the bat, with power, his glove, his arm and with the running. He could beat you any way that's possible." - Buck O'Neil

“Hopefully, they can say, ‘There goes the best baseball player in the world.’ I honestly believe I did everything in baseball that a baseball player can do, and I did it with love.” — Willie Mays

[linka-from-captain-planet]

Coming super late to the ship ask game, but what are your thoughts on Adrielle/Mayrina or Talli/Jaheira? 😁

YES and YES

Adrielle/Mayrina

What made you ship them? It had definitely crossed my mind but this fic you may have heard of naturally turned it all the way up to 10/10. Also Adrielle is so gorgeous that I will throw her at literally anyone tbh.

What are your favorite things about the ship? The entire concept of the Hag Support Group is so charming to me; it's one of the few side quests I always do in Act 3 even though that Ethel fight makes me want to vomit blood. Truly all it needs is a little romance! And it is very romantic, a love that is a safe harbor after surviving a storm. It also of course involves my favorite character in any situation, a Sad Wet Cat Woman (Adrielle) and I like Mayrina, truly some dude off the streets, being the leader and hero of the pack.

Is there an unpopular opinion you have on your ship? Impossible to answer for basically all these ships but this one especially, as I have never seen Adrielle even mentioned in fandom except for us two and I believe I have seen one (1) fanart of Mayrina. That's the unpopular opinon. Philistinism smh

Talli/Jaheira

What made you ship them? When I bebopped around the Last Light Inn for the first time, after shitting bricks wandering the shadow-cursed lands for like an hour because I couldn't find it somehow and I'm a colossal pussy when it comes to horror, and being gobsmacked to discover the oasis of MILFs therein. The wheels were spinning but then Talli said "If you're alright with Jaheira, you're alright with me" instantly made me go "GAY"

What are your favorite things about the ship? Two Harper officers, called to arms by the greatest crisis in a hundred years. It looks cold in the shadow-cursed lands. They can't show doubt, they can't shiver in front of the young'uns that look up to them... but perhaps they could keep each other warm, sometimes. Talli naturally has feelings-catcher written all over her so it doesn't end well, but was it worth it? I think so...

Is there an unpopular opinion you have on your ship? What other miscellaneous commentary do you have tangentially related to your ship because this question is N/A? idk I was very pleased at the response to my Talli thirst drawing, always happy to let people with good taste know they're not alone

[molsons112000]

So my baseball coach, he told me that I made the team at the end of freshman year and that when tryouts come for baseball sophomore year, don't worry about it.You're already made the team... and what did he do after tryouts?When the list came up to make the team for sophomore year, he cut me.. and then I went to the coach's office and I said, why have you cut me? Why didn't I make the team?And he said, well, you had a bad tryout. You told me to take it easy during tryout. S remember, and you told me I already pre-made the team. So don't worry about expending yourself. During tryouts take it lightly... And then he said, oh yeah, that's right. I did say that to you and he's like. I did promise you you already made the team. Because I was exceptional as a freshman baseball player. Truly in the field I pitched as well. I was a pitcher.A catcher, a third baseman, a right fielder... and I pitched a no hitter before... And And so I was very successful on the mound... But I hurt my arm at the end of freshman year. Yes, I ended up accidentally throwing out my arm and it hurt like a son of a b****... And then I had to work myself back in, but my arm was not as strong as it was before... Yes, even when I recovered, I think I was yeah, say, ninety five percent of what I was or ninety percent of what my arm strength was before.... kind of like what happened to Kerry woods when he injured his arms are mark Pryor when the integer's arm, they didn't come back stronger. Now tommy john's surgery actually made the arms stronger... They hurt the arm, but the way the surgery was done. It tightened things up, making the arm even stronger.So pitchers like the surgery because it improved their arm strength... babe Ruth was an All Star pitcher, and they wanted him in the lineup. His bat every day, so they switched him to an outfielder, so he could be in the lineup every day...

Ruth changed from pitcher to hitter in 1920. The first All Star Game was in 1932. Ruth played in the first All Star Game, but only as a hitter.May 2, 2022

https://www.quora.com › Did-Bab...

Did Babe Ruth ever pitch in the All-Star Game? - Quora

I didn't know babe, Ruth. Was this good of a picture? I heard he was a great pitcher, but he won eighty seven games and he had an earn run average of 2.16! Though he was even better than I thought.... but the point being is, sometimes you can move people around, even if they come up and you draft them in one position, they might be better in another position.... this is what I hate about steroids. Babe, Ruth and Hank Aaron, did it without. And now you have all these guys that hit home runs and threaten their records, and this destroys the people who invested in their memorabilia.... this also diminishes their accomplishments!!!! It's one thing if you work on it and you got better skills, you learn how the perfect better. That's all fair, but when you take place, things that artificially enhance, like steroids, that's not fair!!!! And babe, ruth could have been better.He had a little bit of a drinking problem.Think about if he didn't have a drinking problem!!!! Paint karen didn't have a drinking problem!!!!

Babe Ruth is known as one of the greatest sports players in American history. What many people don't realize is that he took part in heavy alcohol consumption throughout his professional baseball career, which spanned from 1914 to 1935.

https://www.gatewayfoundation.org › ...

18 Athletes Who Drank Too Much Alcohol | Gateway Foundation

More about Babe Ruth

But think about the player, babe Ruth would have been Hank Karen didn't have a drinking problem. Babe Ruth struggled consistently with alcoholism and it diminished his game and if he didn't drink and was more on training and taking care of his body. Oh my God, what no one would have ever surpassed his record, I mean, it would have taken a long, long time. But he did things that diminished his ability.... yes, it's like Daryl's Strawberry. His drug and alcohol problem destroyed his career.... So again, he would have been incredible, but again, those negative actions unbelievably truly destroyed his career, and he consistently underperformed to his natural ability!!!!

Getting back to my story. I forgot why I quit. I know the coach screwed me over and I wasn't happy with what he was doing to me, he really destroyed my esteem.... but the reason that I quit baseball is that I thought the coach was being unfair to Phil Mark... so I quit the team in support of him... yes, he quit and then I quit as well because the coach did wrong to him. He was doing wrong to me. Already, but then he further did wrong to him, and I said, screw him and I walked across the field in the middle of the game in protest... Now, this is between endings, but they had to wait for me to clear the field I didn't run off the field, I walked across the middle of the field on purpose, making everybody wait until I got off the field... I wanted everybody to know.... so yes, at times I protested, and this has gotten me in hot water with many people, but when people do wrong, I'm willing to give up everything in turn to support them!!!! So this is what god expected from Jen, with me, when I was having my downturn... That sea would do whatever it takes to support me to get me better!!! And this is why I know he's going to destroy you. You're not doing everything to make me healthy. You terrorize me constantly, and so he's going to condemn you. He's going to destroy you!!!! But you can see the comment, I put the front of the yearbook, and then exactly what he said with it says, Phil.... and I also supported Phil when he dated Janice, and I also supported Phil and offered my house and free to stay, and I tell them whatever I can do for you. It's all on me... And he chose to sleep outside my house, but I welcomed them in and I said he could move in and whatever I needed to do to help him overcome his challenge, I would help him!!! We were very good friends... and the reason it went wrong with Janice is because Phil had some psychological challenges and Janice didn't know how the deal with the issue correctly.... phil never did anything but love her, but he had some challenges.... nothing of abuse.... but he also had challenges with our coach in high school and he had challenges with dot Kohler. He was his counselor plus a coach and Phil had lots of issues... And he played at northern Arizona as a quarterback... I didn't even know he was in Arizona. At the same time, I was all right, we would have hooked up and hung out sometimes.... and then I invited Phil on my Facebook and he would make comments and I would make supporting comments trying to help him in his situation so I didn't criticize him or chastise him I tried to understand and help him... but that's not what's been done to me!!!! What you do is that what you sow is what you reap, and if I don't start weeping what I've given, you're all dead!!!!

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[baseballsisco]

Happy Wednesday everyone. Here is my MLB Immaculate Grid number 541 for Tuesday September 24. This grid has quite the Baltimore Orioles influence. Six of the nine picks played for the Orioles.

Rick Dempsey was quite the character. He was known for his comedic chops, especially during rain delays. He would entertain the fans by slip and sliding on the waterlogged tarp at old Baltimore Memorial Stadium. In terms of his catching ability, Dempsey was a solid catcher. While not winning any personal league awards, Dempsey was the 1983 World Series MVP.

Speaking of catchers, there aren't many better than Hall of Famer Gary Carter. Beloved by many fans, the Kid was a 11x NL All Star, 3x NL Gold Glove winner, 5x NL Silver Slugger and  placed in the top 10 of NL MVP voting 4x and was an integral part of the 1986 New York Mets World Series Championship team.

Mudcat Grant is a pitcher that I wasn't very familiar with outside of his baseball career. Grant had a solid 14-year career but his greatest effect on the game was after he retired. Grant became a spokesperson for the future of black baseball. He would tour the country, lecturing about how the effect of African-Americans in baseball was diminishing. He would advocate for ways on how the game could be grown in urban centers in ways similar to the legendary Buck O'Neill did.

Thats all for now. On to grid 542!!!

[ozzyscollectiblehub]

Yogi Berra: The Legend Behind the Wit

When people think of Yogi Berra, they often remember the man with the quips — those unforgettable, humorous sayings known as “Yogi-isms” that often seemed like they made no sense but somehow held a kernel of truth. But to remember Yogi Berra merely as a source of witty one-liners is to miss the full picture of one of baseball’s greatest legends.

A Stellar Career on the Field

Born Lawrence Peter Berra in St. Louis in 1925, Yogi Berra’s journey to baseball stardom was far from ordinary. Signed by the New York Yankees in 1943, Berra began his career during World War II, which saw him serve as a gunner’s mate in the U.S. Navy. After the war, Berra returned to baseball, making his major league debut in 1946.

Over the course of 19 seasons, primarily with the Yankees, Berra solidified his place as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history. His career numbers are staggering: 18 All-Star selections, 10 World Series championships (a record for a single player), and three American League MVP awards. Berra was known for his clutch hitting, posting a .285 career batting average with 358 home runs and 1,430 RBIs. His prowess behind the plate, both as a catcher and a hitter, was unparalleled, and he was a master at handling pitchers.

The Heart and Soul of the Yankees

Berra’s influence extended far beyond the stat sheet. He was the heart and soul of the Yankees during their golden era in the 1940s, ’50s, and early ’60s. His leadership and competitive spirit were instrumental in guiding the Yankees to 14 World Series appearances during his tenure. Even as his playing days wound down, Berra’s love for the game kept him in the dugout as a coach and manager, roles in which he continued to find success, leading both the Yankees and the New York Mets to the World Series.

Yogi-isms: Wisdom in Simplicity

But Berra’s legacy isn’t confined to his baseball achievements. His “Yogi-isms” have become part of American folklore. Phrases like “It ain’t over ’til it’s over,” “When you come to a fork in the road, take it,” and “You can observe a lot by watching” reflect a simple, yet profound, philosophy on life and baseball. These sayings, often humorous and seemingly contradictory, offered insight into the mind of a man who viewed the world with a unique blend of practicality and humor.

While they often brought laughter, Yogi-isms also conveyed deeper truths. “It ain’t over ’til it’s over,” for example, speaks to the resilience and determination that defined Berra’s career. No matter the odds, Berra never counted himself — or his team — out until the final out was made.

A Legacy That Transcends Baseball

Yogi Berra’s influence went far beyond the diamond. He was a cultural icon, beloved for his humility, kindness, and wit. His post-playing career saw him as an ambassador for the sport, and his legacy was further cemented with the establishment of the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center in Montclair, New Jersey. The museum serves not only as a tribute to Berra’s career but also as an educational center promoting the values of sportsmanship, perseverance, and excellence that he embodied.

Yogi Berra passed away in 2015 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy that transcends baseball. He was more than just a great player; he was a symbol of an era, a man whose wisdom and wit charmed generations of fans and whose contributions to the game of baseball will never be forgotten.

As Yogi himself might say, “It’s déjà vu all over again” — the story of Yogi Berra is one that will be told, retold, and cherished for as long as baseball is played.

[shadows-starlight]

Shadows and Starlight

Book 28: The Greatest Grandmother of All

-

In the heart of the deep, enchanted forest of Ebonvale, stood a grand Victorian-style house. The manor’s architecture was a timeless marvel, with its white and green walls, ebony windows, and a turret that seemed to touch the sky. This was the residence of Isolde, Malakar’s great-grandmother and the matriarch of his family.

Now, I know what you all must be thinking. If Malakar has great-grandparents, shouldn't they be dead by now?

Yes, yes they should.

However, unlike mortal beings, beings who were touched by magic or born into a magical lineage can live up to one thousand years old, very few are lucky enough to live past the one-thousand-year age mark.

Today, however, was not any ordinary visit for today, Malakar would be introducing Isolde to his lovely baby, Aurora.

This would be the first time Isolde would be meeting Aurora since Malakar had adopted her as his own after finding her up in a dingy tower.

Aurora, resting securely in her father’s arms, gazed curiously at her surroundings. Malakar wore an air of anticipation mixed with reverence as he remembers visiting his great-grandmother when he was a boy.

As they reached the steps leading to the ornate wooden door, Malakar gave the door a gentle knock. After a moment, the door creaked open to reveal Isolde.

The elegant sorceress whose beauty and wisdom were evident in her sparkling eyes and graceful demeanor. Her long silver braided hair flowed like a cascading waterfall, and her robe of deep emerald shimmered in the sunlight.

"Malakar," Isolde greeted with a warm smile, "what a lovely surprise! Ah, and this must be the little one I’ve heard so much about."

"Yes great-grandmother," replied Malakar, "this is my little star, Aurora."

Malakar carefully handed Aurora over to Isolde, who took her with a gentle, practiced touch. Aurora’s curious eyes widened as she looked up at the matriarch. Isolde’s face softened with a loving smile as she gazed at her great-great-granddaughter.

Aurora giggled at the sight of her great-great-grandmother.

“Hello, little Aurora,” Isolde said softly, her voice like a soothing breeze. “I’m your great-great-grandmother and I’ve been eagerly awaiting this moment.”

Aurora reached out with tiny hands, her gaze fixed on Isolde’s face as she touched it gently. Isolde chuckled softly.

Malakar watched with a mixture of pride and awe as Isolde gently rocked Aurora ever so slightly. “Oh, what a beautiful child,” Isolde murmured, her fingers lightly brushing against Aurora’s cheek.

As the sun continued to rise high in the sky, Isolde invited them inside the house for tea. The house was filled with the comforting aroma of herbs and spices, and the walls were lined with ancient tomes and artifacts, all from Isolde's life full of spell-casting and traveling.

Over cups of tea, Malakar and Isolde shared stories and laughter while Aurora played on the floor with some toys Malakar had brought for her to keep her occupied. While she played, Aurora gazed up at her great-great-grandmother and Isolde even joined in on the baby's games.

In the middle of the visit, Isolde presented Malakar with a gift for Aurora.

She moved to a table adorned with delicate, enchanted trinkets she had collected for many years. From a velvet box, she retrieved a dream catcher intricately woven with colorful threads and adorned with moonstone beads and hawk feathers. Its center glowed softly with an ethereal light.

“I made this for Aurora,” Isolde explained, holding out the dream catcher. “It’s not just a charm; it’s imbued with ancient magic to protect her dreams and ensure she always finds peace in her sleep.”

Malakar looked at the dream catcher, his eyes filled with admiration. “It’s beautiful, great-grandmother.”

He gently lowered Aurora to take a closer look. Isolde’s gentle hands held the dream catcher as she approached.

Aurora’s tiny fingers reached out, mesmerized by the soft glow and delicate threads.

“Here you go, little one,” Isolde cooed softly. “This is for you.”

Aurora’s fingers brushed against the dream catcher, and she gazed up at Isolde with wide-eyed wonder. Isolde’s heart melted as she saw the tiny smile that tugged at Aurora’s lips and heard her giggling with delight.

“It’s perfect,” Malakar said, his voice filled with emotion. “Thank you, great-grandmother. This means more to us than words can express and it will make a lovely addition to her room.”

In the warmth of Isolde's Victorian home, amidst the ancient magic and family bonds, Aurora's first meeting with her great-great-grandmother became a cherished memory—one of many that would weave together the rich tapestry of their lives.

[gurofushi]

strike 2,000!

𝜗𝜚 kenji sato x cameraman/woman! reader (fluff + crack)

summary; kenji does an oopsy daisy and accidentally breaks your $2,000 camera 🤷🏻‍♀️

warnings; i know nothing about baseball. im pulling every single word i wrote out of my ass ^v^ pls don't come for me

a/n; crazy how this man has singlehandedly brought back my passion and will to write (#needthat)

🦷 (apologies for any grammar mistakes, english is not my first language^^)

the crowd goes silent.

everyone had their eyes locked onto the game– some on the white leather ball, some on the man who had his baseball bat sitting on his shoulder, unmoving, like a predator waiting for the right moment to strike and feast on it's prey.

the atmosphere was stuffy and nerve wracking as the famously self proclaimed ‘greatest living player’, kenji sato, had the future of his team weighing on his shoulders.

though he calls himself the greatest, sato hasn't been playing up to his title for the past few games. okay, maybe not few. most of his games.. well, for all of his games. but i still had some sort of hope.

for once, he almost looked nervous. of course, any normal person wouldn't see such a difference in his stance and expression. he was always so neat, always masking his features in that usual hard and determined look whenever he's on the field. it looked so different from the cocky, almost egotistical one that he has on during interviews or fan meetings.

then again, people don't ever really care about the underlying emotions that famous people must have. netizens only judge, like and hate on what they see.

which is why i'm here.

my heart thumped rapidly in my chest, the rhythmic beat of it sounding out loud– so loud, that i swore everyone in the stadium could hear it.

this could either be one of the best moments in baseball history– or one of the worst. either way, i made sure that i was going to catch it on video.

slowly standing up from my seat, i squint my eyes and position my professional camera so it would sit on my shoulder comfortably enough for me to hold it up through the entirety of these last few minutes.

the pitcher raises his arm. i zoom in to the face of kenji sato, focusing on him entirely as he takes a breath. in a moment of synchronicity, i catch myself inhaling and holding in a breath as well.

in no time, the ball goes flying up in the air, looking like it's going a hundred miles per hour as it charges towards sato.

thump.

“strike one!” a wave of mumbles and sounds of displeasure break out in the crowd as the ball lands onto the glove on the catcher behind him. i almost click my tongue audibly at them. have a little patience, could you?

thump.

“strike two!” okay, maybe i'm hoping for too much here. exhaling all the breath i've been holding, i slump my shoulders a bit, not feeling so enthusiastic anymore as i was sure that what i was about to record wasn't going to disappoint anybody more than mysel–

thwack!

‘oh my god? oh my god. oh my god!’ immediately straightening up my posture again, i hold the camera as steadily as possible as i continue to catch, probably, one of the greatest miracles i've ever witnessed.

the crowd erupted in ear-piercing shrieks, the same people who boo'ed and whispered now screaming out ken sato's name like a prayer.

a wide smile unconsciously made it's own way onto my face as i watch the whole scene turn lively. and the best part is; i caught it all on video! excitement bubbled in my chest, knowing how much engagement i would get from posting the recording– maybe that way, i could get more job offers, more people to hire me as their videographer!

i knew, that as soon as i calmed down from the euphoria of witnessing this in real time (and being able to record it), i would get home, edit the footage, then post it for everyone in the whole wide world to see how magnificent and great kenji sato really is–

crack!

‘what just happened?’ a sudden force knocked me off of my feet, causing me to end up on the ground, butt first. i winced, the pain from the fall hitting me like a kid on their bicycle, not looking at where they were going.

“hey! you okay?” a big, tall figure loomed over me, casting a shadow that covered my whole entire body. i looked up, and i swore to god, i felt like my heart was going to have it's own little panic attack and climb out of my body through my ass hole.

there he stood, in his full, entire glory. it was kenji sato, standing over me in his beautifully made baseball uniform, adorning the number 7 with his name etched above it.

“i– i'm okay!” i stuttered out, quickly scrambling back onto my feet to save myself from the embarrassment. but as soon as i got up, i regretted my decisions as i just lost my one true chance to experience that k-drama moment i've been longing for.

“sorry 'bout that. i didn't realize how much strength i put into that swing. i swear i'll pay you back every cent to get you a new camera.” he said, with a hand rubbing the back of his neck as his eyes reflected an apologetic look, complete with a worried smile.

i've personally never seen him with such an expression. to see such a vulnerable look on his face, honestly made me feel a bit special. i flushed, not only from that revelation, but also from the close proximity between us, and from how softly he spoke to me.

a little voice in my head bragged about this little interaction i'm currently having with the ken sato. even though only i myself could hear that voice, i knew that every single fan girl that watched us from the stands with a scowl could hear that same little demon whispering in their ears.

shaking off my running thoughts, i smile back at him, albeit a bit nervously. “it's all good. my camera is–” my camera. my camera is.. my camera! where's my camera?!

i let out a gasp, my head suddenly whipping all over to place to spot my camera, which suddenly disappeared from my arms, probably during my fall.

“i think.. this, is what you're looking for.” moving his hands from behind his back, he shows me what he'd been holding on to this whole time.

my camera, my professional $2,000 camera, now in bits and pieces, as it was probably the thing that got hit and sent me flying onto the ground.

“oh..” my smile dropped, eyes looking at nothing else but the broken shell of my beautiful camera.

“well, we can still save the usb memory, right? i swear i'll get you a new one by– hey, hey! medic! i need a medic!”

ken sato watches in horror as i start to fall, all my limbs going limp. the camera is, once again, thrown onto the ground as he quickly moves to catch my body.

is this really the way i'm going out? well, at least i can truly die peacefully in kenji sato's gorgeous arms.

i blink. once, twice. i wanna know.. know, know know.. what is love? did i die? am i in heaven?

as i opened my heavy eyes, i was met with a bright yellow light that shined straight into my eyes. that traumatizing smell of doctors and medicine filling my nostrils as i slowly regained my conciseness back.

“you're awake, thank god.” i look to my side, and there i saw ken sato sitting on a chair nearby, now wearing more casual attire– fitted in a black tee and jeans in the same color, a silver necklace hanging around his neck, as well as a pair of earrings that usually goes unseen whenever he wears a baseball helmet.

for a moment, i truly believed that i was looking at an angel.

he was looking at me with a warm smile, though his eyes still pooled with concern. before i could say anything, he started talking again.

“look, i'm really sorry again. for your camera and such. medic said that you probably passed out from shock and distress. that camera must've meant a lot to you.”

i immediately sat up straight, still looking straight at him. “wait, how long was i out for?”

“about an hour and a half, maybe?”

i let out a breath, running my fingers through my hair as i recalled everything that happened prior to my faint.

“oh god, i'm so sorry.” groaning, i stuff my face into my arms and quietly wished that i actually did peacefully pass away in his arms. that way, i wouldn't have to deal with the embarrassment of passing out in front of ken sato!

judging by the comfortable change of his clothes, he really must've cared enough to wait here till i woke up. honestly, the thought of that made me feel all fuzzy inside.

he laughs, a sound that brought a shiver up my spine. trying to peek at him through the gaps of my fingers, i spot him looking right at me with a somewhat amused look on his face.

“hey, there's no need to be embarrassed now.” his laughs turn into a chuckle, as he slightly raises his hips and slides his chair closer to the bed i was on.

“if anything, i should be the one embarrassed. really, is there anything else i can do to make it up to you? other than giving you the replacement money for your camera, of course.”

‘i don't know, take me on a date maybe?’ ..i thought, huffing a bit as i lower my hands from my face.

“a date? i don't see why not.” he grins, standing up from his seat. once again, he looms over my frame, tilting his head a bit as his eyes look down at me with the slightest look of interest. i could melt from how hot he is.

did i really just.. say that out loud?

“how 'bout.. tonkatsu tonki? at 7? i'll see you there, pretty.” he says with a toothy grin, before casually walking out of the door like he did nothing wrong at all. meanwhile i was sitting here, so shocked that i felt like i could pass out again.

a date? with the ken sato? he doesn't even know my name, and yet, i'm going out to dinner with the ken sato, all thanks to my runny mouth.

at that very moment, the $2,000 camera didn't really feel like it meant that much anymore.

a/n (2); THE ENDING IS SO CHEESYYY (ㅠㅅㅠ;) to be completely honest, i realized that in the middle of writing this that i had no idea where i wanted to go w the story, but i was just so determined to finish it while i was still in the mood for writing 🙍🏻‍♀️ ended up with this little imagine that i subconsciously filled with not so funny jokes that i may or may not have laughed at myself for sooo i guess thats gonna be as good as it gets (stan twice btw). thanks so much for reading, hope you enjoyed it! 🩷🩷

[shannybasar]

Thank you Jurgen

Hard to believe it is Jurgen's last game as manager of Liverpool. Will miss the man as much as the manager - he showed us the importance of togetherness and belief. He gave us everything and just wish him the absolute best.

From The Guardian:

"The manager has given everything, again, and today will be an outpouring of love and thanks to him. In Germany he is known as a Menschenfanger, a people catcher, someone who has a positive effect on those around him. For us, he’s been a dream catcher, too. He gave us belief and he gave us the best of times. He made us happy."

By Neil Atkinson at The Anfield Wrap:

Now the guiding force and some of the supporting force has gone. But not really; we know that. We know how this works. Just because someone isn't here, doesn't mean they aren't really here. Just because only 3,000 can be in an away end or 60,000 in Anfield doesn't mean there aren't millions of us amassed together in a grand spiritual space, yearning and loving and wanting our players and one another to be the best versions of ourselves. That's how this works. How it has always worked. And how he has reminded us it has worked. Just because he isn't *there*, just there, opposite me at Anfield, doesn't mean he isn't *here*. Because the way this works is that he always will be. You are always here, too. We are always here together and that we now includes him - the greatest living Liverpudlian. All the best ones come from outside. Another part of the magic. Go well, big man. Nobody could have asked for any more.

The two stand out moments for me :

6) Liverpool 4-0 Barcelona, 7 May 2019 The standout game of the Klopp era. An unforgettable night when the “mentality giants” reduced Lionel Messi’s Barcelona to a quivering wreck. Liverpool were trailing 3-0 from the first leg of the Champions League semi-final – their only loss in the final 24 games of that season – and without the concussed Salah or injured Roberto Firmino, but staged their greatest fightback to reach a second successive final. Victory followed a rousing pre-match speech from Klopp, who told his players their task was: “Impossible. But because it’s you, you have a chance.” Liverpool’s sixth European Cup triumph felt a formality in Madrid after that. It was. 7) Formby Hall golf club, 25 June 2020 The circumstances were grim but after 30 years, 58 days and a three-month interruption to the season caused by a pandemic, Liverpool were finally English champions again. Klopp had delivered the prize that Liverpool craved most. Players and staff gathered in their bubble – remember them? – at the golf club having outclassed Crystal Palace 4-0 at an eerily deserted Anfield the night before. They had resumed the season with an astonishing 25-point lead and Manchester City’s defeat at Chelsea guaranteed Liverpool’s 19th league title and first of the Premier League era. Klopp was in tears as the enormity of the achievement sank in. His team had won the Premier League, the Champions League, the Club World Cup for the first time in Liverpool’s history and the Uefa Super Cup within 13 extraordinary months.

From Barney Ronay:

From Kenan Malik:

Klopp addressed supporters on the pitch at Anfield:

[voiceoutofstars]

From the Revised Data Bank: "Genius of Brilliant Stars"

Reminder that I’m not a professional editor or proofreader. I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

Below is my attempt at revising the Data Bank entry for the relic set “Genius of Brilliant Stars.” The real in-game text for that entry can be read here.

Quick note: I took (probably egregious) conscious liberties with this revision. Don't come for me. One of the quotes in particular is in honor of an incoming Galaxy Ranger who probably has nothing to do with the topic in question--but his, like, 6 lines of dialogue so far inspired a certain tone of narrative voice that I couldn't help but incorporate here.

Genius's Ultra-remote Sensing Visor

A pair of communication goggles embedded with ultra-remote sensing technology. They break through the shackles of limited transmission bandwidth with ease and can transmit reliably to extremely remote recipients.

It is a universally acknowledged truth that the Genius Society contains an overabundance of eccentricity, including—or at least contributing to—a serious lack of communication between its members. Indeed, social interaction is a burden for many people across the cosmos; for geniuses traveling between worlds, it is even more so.

Elias Salas, member 56 and the second head of the Genius Society, once tried to tackle this problem. Bringing his characteristic fervent completionism to bear on the matter, he developed custom-made communication goggles for each member and equipped them with ultra-remote sensing capabilities. From a technological standpoint, his creations were a complete success; however, few of his comrades were willing—or even interested—in actually connecting with each other. The greatest communication device in the universe, therefore, has never been fully utilized.

“The number that you—uh—dialed? It’s not in service.” “Ugh...if you’re going to fake a communication AI, at least put a bit of conviction behind it!”

Confronted with such a lukewarm reception to his invention, Elias Salas simply sighed. He was not especially surprised, given his compatriots’ tendencies to trivialize connectivity as unworthy of their valuable time. All the same, he had no regrets; he was certain that his communication technology would have its use in time, one way or another.

Genius's Frequency Catcher

A pair of gloves designed to function as a means of high-precision frequency capture. They enable the wearer to manually manipulate sounds and light through direct interaction with their otherwise nigh-intangible vibrations.

The ongoing research focus of Stephen Lloyd, 84th member of the Genius Society, is "how to slack off at work without being noticed". He finds this investigation particularly relevant to his current living situation in his foster father’s fruit shop.

Many of his inventions fit beneath the umbrella of this wider research problem. For example, he crafted gloves that could capture specific frequencies of sound and light so he could study stringed instruments behind the frequency fence surreptitiously—in other words, without being noticed by his foster father and scolded for loafing around.

This new frequency capture technology is more than groundbreaking; within the current paradigm of Aiden’s nine-word formula theory of the universe, it is quite simply inexplicable. Such an outstanding invention could change the course of science...but Stephen isn’t interested in anything so grand. He has no intention of introducing his new technology to the public. After all, it’s just a toy—just a means for whiling away the dull hours at the fruit shop.

“Stephen, I don’t know what you’re up to, but you’re clearly slacking off again, aren’t you?”

Brilliant as Stephen Lloyd is, to his foster father, he was a child like any other—fanciful, imaginative, full of daydreams and fantasies and prone to goofing off.

Genius's Metafield Suit

A suit that becomes skin-tight when activated. It transmits neural and electrical impulses from the body to the metafield in real time.

The metafield space created by Sserkal, 29th member of the Genius Society, transcended several dimensions beyond our usual existence, let alone meager differences in biology. With the help of this suit, any living creature’s neural signals could synchronize with the consciousness network.

For those unable to physically travel between worlds, this collective dream domain granted them a chance to connect with others beyond their own homes. Here, in the metafield, peace and cooperation were possible on a scale that was inconceivable in the material world.

Within this virtual realm, a host of creatures from across the universe created countless cultural wonders and quietly built the framework for a new order of compassionate understanding. But just when this virtual Eden was on the cusp of replacing reality for its inhabitants, Sserkal, the Net Weaver of All Creation, cut off all connections to the consciousness network. As if it had been nothing but a long-winded joke from the start, as if it had held nothing at all worth preserving, the entirety of the metafield went dark and silent.

“All those investors yammering about ‘metafield space this, metafield space that’, they’re going out of the minds now. Absolutely monumental, the capital they poured into it, but now—poof—no more metafield. Madness, the whole thing is madness. Worse than madness, even—we might be talking conspiracy.”

People are prone to wild thoughts when a great prize slips their grasp. Perhaps the metafield wasn’t such a benevolent place after all. Might it have been a secret petri dish, designed to use all the data it collected to culture new and unregulated sentience? Might all its citizens, and all their works and wonders, been tended as the unknowing crop for a terrible harvest, for a callous and unethical sampling of souls?

Genius's Gravity Walker

Wearable gravity-capture devices, similar in appearance to ice skates. They reflect the twinkling stars during their meteoric gliding.

The notorious Dr. Primitive, member 64, spent his life committing great crimes and fleeing interstellar pursuit.

Dr. Primitive seemed to enjoy the thrill of the chase. He always kept his hunters at a carefully managed distance: never close enough to risk capture nor far enough behind that they would lose him.

His escapes utilized some kind of gravity-capture technology that allowed him to move uninhibited across vast distances of space. Astrophysicists from the Intelligentsia Guild could not puzzle out the principles underlying his technique; they could only assume that it had something to do with the gravitational potential difference between stars. His pursuers were confined by the usual limitations of gravity, so they struggled to keep pace. Nonetheless, they swore that he would be brought to justice, and continued after him.

“Seeing somebody spacewalking like that should’ve been the sight of my life,” a Galaxy Ranger once said of that hopeless chase. “A shame that ‘someone’ had to be Doctor fucking Primitive.”

The Galaxy Ranger quoted refuses to believe in Dr. Primitive’s presumptive death, and continues the hunt despite the quarry’s disappearance.