#how to sign a document on android

[tiredfoxtf]

hi. h/c 500 words anon here with more words, but it's getting away from me i'm at 1k words and it isn't FINISHED D: so this is just the first ~500 words. you drew the art that started this i'm just possessed (and took some liberties umm sorry!!)

-------

"Etho," Tango said, "you have to report this."

Etho didn't respond. He couldn't take his eyes off Joel, couldn't stop looking for any sign that Joel was still 'awake' in there. Any sign that Joel could hear him.

In his head, Etho knew that Joel would be okay. Tango was very good at what he did. Soon enough, there would be no evidence that this day had ever happened -- no physical evidence, at least. But that didn't make Etho's stupid human heart feel any better.

"Etho," Tango said again, a couple octaves higher this time as his 'stressed Tango' voice came out, "If you don't call this in, I'll have to, and I've got enough on my plate already!"

Etho made a wordless noise. Ducked his head. Pulled his phone out of his pocket. He didn't want to. He hated talking to authorities, for lots of reasons. But it wouldn't be right to leave Tango with all the work. "I'll be right back, Joel," he murmured. "I just need to make a phone call."

Did he imagine that Joel's eyes flicked towards him for a moment? Did it matter that he squeezed Joel's hand before he walked away, even though Joel probably couldn't feel it?

It wasn't an easy call to make. It was never going to be easy. Etho struggled to keep his voice steady as he spoke to the dispatcher. Pressed the fingers of his free hand into a bruise on his side so that the pain would keep him focused. He did not want to be doing this. If it had only been himself that was hurt he would have crawled back to his apartment and never told a soul. This was for Joel, though. His repairs were going to be so expensive there'd be no way to keep it hidden. The Company would push for an investigation, would want to press charges against the 'vandals'. Etho pressing charges might get quicker action from the police, but his injuries would barely be a footnote in the Company's report. An audio engineer was a replaceable expense. A custom-designed entertainment android was an investment.

He hated having to stand there at the front of Tango's shop and wait for the paramedics and the cops to arrive. Hated having to put on his 'professional' face and talk to so many uniforms and keep his anxiety from showing. They asked questions (too many questions) and took pictures of Etho's injuries. They made him take his shirt off for it. He really hated that. They barged into the repair bay to take pictures of Joel, to document the "property damage". They interrupted Tango's work, questioned him, made him break out his license and contracts and argue them out of taking Joel away as "evidence". Etho might've done something really stupid if they'd tried that.

They made Etho tell them what happened. They asked why he'd risked his life for an android. Etho knew that the truth -- the real truth -- would not help anyone. It might make things worse. He had learned very early in his life that sometimes, to survive in the world, you had to lie about important things. He had gotten very good at lying.

(TBC! they will get to the recliner i swear)

Gnawing at the bars of my enclosure, 500 words anon, I love you (/silly).

I'm so obsessed with this. Etho hating to talk to authorities, Tango literally pulling everything up to fight tooth and nail for his right to keep Joel on repair, Etho having to lie about his intentions to not needlessly complicate things. And I am not even talking about how well it's written, because I don't understand how you're so amazing and skilled with language. Also, we love creative liberties in this house. I am just glad to be a source of inspiration really.

[neopoliitan]

TEAM RAIN: ARC 4 CH7 - THOUGH THE HEAVENS FALL (PART 2)

A WRITE UP FOR THE REST OF TEAM RAIN: CHAPTER 7b

There's a lot of content warnings in this one; murder, abuse, torture, blood, the whole nine yards, so... be aware of that before diving in. This is some of the edgiest shit I've written.

ARC 4 CHAPTER 7: THOUGH THE HEAVENS FALL (Part 2)

Part 1 is here. You'll need to refresh yourself.

In a flashback, Kamala Braith is born from the PRISM. Lucius Braith cradles her in his arms.

We cut to several x-rays and tests being run as present-day Lucius narrates that they had been successful on the first run. Kamala was healthy, and even possessed advantages over a naturally born child. For one, her aura was active from birth - which he puts down to his own being active when he injected it into the PRISM to create her.

He notes her drawbacks, too - she became sickly for a time, and had even more heightened emotions due to the trauma of her gestation and birth from a machine. 

Past-Lucius becomes greedy, and decides he has to try again. In a paranoia he casts his team aside and works alone, throwing himself completely into his endeavour. This is to his detriment, as his lack of second opinion causes him to miss something in his amendments to the PRISM, leaving Gardner Braith in a constant state of draining aura.

“I longed for the perfect result, ignorant of the lives I was carelessly bringing into the world.”

We cut forward to a military convoy advancing upon Zenith as Lucius, Kamala (4), Gardner (3), Sterling (1) and Viola (newborn) watch. Out of the leading truck steps General Boris Northwind, the newly decided leader of Mantle and Atlas. 

“Boris Northwind - Atlas’s newly elected General. A man whose nationalism had won the hearts of a public sick to their stomach of the distrust Atlas was shown by other kingdoms. A man who had ousted those who had approved my projects and replaced them with his warlike allies. A man who now had access to all redacted knowledge about Zenith, and he had his own designs.”

Lucius and General Northwind meet in Lucius’s office. Boris demands that they use PRISM technology to create a home-grown army, stronger than the average man, but Lucius refuses to let his research intersect with defense or war. Boris is incredulous.

“Since becoming General of this Kingdom I have heard things that would make your head spin. If you knew what was out there - what was really out there - and that it is coming, you would militarize this operation in five minutes!”

Lucius responds that he will not let his research into creating life be used to end it, but in doing so seals his fate.

“It’s not your research.” Northwind responds. Lucius is taken aback.

“I’ve read the documents - documents that you signed. They declare that everything in these walls is property of the Kingdom of Mantle - the Kingdom of Atlas. Rossi’s Talos androids, the PRISM… those four… creations of yours.”

Lucius sees the writing on the wall, but refuses to give in. Guards restrain him, and Northwind says to have him escorted back to Mantle. As he is dragged down a hallway, Lucius turns to Kamala and cries out to her that he will return for them - to wait for him, but he is blocked from her view by Northwind, who sidles in front of her, rests a hand on her shoulder, and tells her they have work to do.

This is where it gets bad.

--

We cut back to the present, with Teams RAIN and PALM in Lucius’s cave. 

Robin asks why he never went back, and he old man explains that Northwind’s cronies found a bogus prison sentence, leaving him to rot in a cell for years. He was only released two decades after, during an administration after Northwind’s - they couldn’t find records of a Lucius Braith existing, let alone his prison sentence.

Robin then goes on to ask; “They were just kids when that happened - and there were only four of them. How did they go so bad, and how were the other three even born without you?”

And Lucius responds “Each of my children contains a hint of my aura - and through that, a faint connection to me. On occasion, mostly through dreams, I felt their memories and emotions as my own. While I may have been in prison, I experienced the rest of the story in spirit.”

--

Desperate for solutions, Northwind intended to use the PRISM to birth a ‘disposable’ army he could throw at the source of his paranoia.

We see Northwind, clearly stressed about something - clearly afraid - as he rests his head against the PRISM. 

Lucius explains; “The PRISM was hardwired to only accept my aura pattern. He didn’t know that, of course - he only knew that he had three remaining samples to work with…”

Northwind turns to Kamala, Gardner, Sterling and Viola.

“...So he focused on the children themselves. If he couldn't make something in his image, he would warp that which had been made in mine. My children were once harmless… but Northwind wanted his super soldiers. He did whatever he could to make them fight.”

We see Northwind snatching Sterling’s teddy bear from him (the same one from Arc 3, Chapter 10), and gives it to Viola, who hugs it.

“They were so delicate… So malleable…”

Sterling’s face twists into a mask of anger.

“…So unstable…”

We cut forward again. The Braiths are a little older now. Gardner’s aura is flaring, and he is clearly in pain.

“When they refused to fight each other, they were subjected to far worse pain than what they could inflict upon each other. They were pitted against each other, manipulated… drained and betrayed and they were just children. Children suffering what no one in the universe should have to.”

Northwind opens the PRISM again. His minions have cracked the code - though only slightly. They use what trace amounts were left of Lucius’s aura, and produce Zelena, Viorel and Tahlia.

We then see Kamala in the same cell the Lincolns were held in. She’s likely not even ten, but there are scratches and dried blood on the wall. Her arms are covered in surgical scars, where scientists have examined her biological makeup to see how similar she is to a “real” human.

“Between the torture, the manipulation, the starvation and the surgery, Northwind had taken my children and attempted to fashion them into weapons. He just had to pull the trigger…

…But he didn't realise how good of a job he had done.”

And again we flash forward. 

Northwind and some of his goons are sitting in the same boardroom from Arc 3, Chapter 1. A large portrait of Northwind himself sits behind it, a monument to his ego yet also his ignorance of the horrors he has committed on these children simply by the merit of how they were born. Kamala, now around ten to twelve, is serving as his cupbearer. An advisor is cradling the newborn Tahlia, whilst the other five Braiths are lined up against the wall like statues, awaiting any sort of command or punishment.

Kamala pours Northwind a drink, but twitches while doing so. Northwind reprimands her, which one of his advisors actually speaks up against; noting that the General is not winning these childrens’ loyalty. Northwind ignores this, claiming he has brought them to heel and his “soldiers” will do as they are told. He won an election, he can win Braith’s creations.

Northwind commands Kamala to fetch their food. Kamala hesitates. Then she twitches again. Then Northwind slaps her hard enough that she hits the floor. The advisor speaks out again.

“Boris, she's a child!”

“It's not anything! They're all nothing! And I have had it up to here with their hesitancy!”

Northwind commands his guards to escort the Braiths down to level eight, and that they “know what to do.” He commands Kamala to get up, and she mumbles as she cradles her face.

“When… When… my father comes home… when my family…”

Northwind laughs, a booming, terrible laugh from the stomach. 

“That's what you think this is?” He turns to his advisors. “Get a load of this! It doesn't know its place in the world -- it doesn't know where it came from.” 

He gets on Kamala’s eye level. “Maybe that's why you're so hard to housebreak. So let me put this in little words you'll be able to understand.

“You have no family. You are an experiment. You are merely the result of Lucius Braith creating a substitute for humanity in times of war, and humanity needs things to be this way.

“You are here to serve Mantle. The men, women and children will not have to lay down their lives when we can send drones such as yourself.

“You are a crash test dummy. You are not alive, your feelings are not real. Whatever you may have thought you felt… It's all just programming. Code. Read my lips:

“You're. Not. Real.”

Kamala freezes. Her eyes glaze over. Something tugs at the corners of her lips, and slowly her mouth warps into a smile - but the rest of her face isn’t smiling, it’s just absent.

Northwind draws himself up to his full height and turns back to his advisors. He begins to talk, but Kamala speaks again.

“When I was younger, my father used to read me stories. Once, he told me a story of a bridge. An old bridge that would be beaten and damaged by the travelers who crossed it. No one cared for it, and no one maintained it. People just took advantage.”

“What in the world are you talking about…?” Northwind asks incredulously, but Kamala continues.

“One day, the bridge was very weak. A large party attempted to cross it during a storm - it was the only bridge for miles around - and it couldn’t take the strain. Eventually, it collapsed and all those who had neglected to take care of it fell into the river, lost to the storm and the current. After so much, the bridge just… snapped. And they all fell down. But it was okay, you see? Because in their idiocy and self interest they had failed to do right by what they had created. It was all fine.”

She looks up at Northwind, her eyes finally focusing on something for the first time since he told her she was not real - and perhaps the first time she truly saw existence for what she now believes it is.

“Because… Well… because they deserved to die.”

In a single, swift movement, Kamala springs forth like an animal, tears a butter knife from the conference room table, and jams it into Northwind’s collarbone. A blunt weapon, it doesn’t hurt him much, but the weight of her leaping into him while he was so sure he had her “trained” is enough to knock him into the table, winding him, and sending them both tumbling to the floor. 

We see Kamala’s face now. It’s the same face she pulled on Viola at the end of Arc 2 as she screams through an expression that barely opens its lips. 

“AND YOU WANT TO TELL ME I’M NOT REAL--? NOT REAL--?”

Kamala attacks Boris again and again with the knife, eventually landing it in his eye or his cheek. Boris commands her to stop, but she grows more feral, scratching at him with her nails, tearing into his flesh with her teeth. Eventually she bites into the soft flesh of his throat, and his commands turn to pleas of mercy.

“IS THIS REAL ENOUGH?! YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT REAL IS!”

The guards advance and level their weapons at the girl, but they don’t realise their mistake in leaving the other Braiths unattended. Seeing their comrade finally snap, they recognise their opening and do what they were trained to do. Sterling is the first. He wrenches a pipe from the wall and swings it at the nearest guard, who crumples to the floor. Raising it above his head, the boy screams “I'M GOING TO KILL ALL OF YOU--! YOU TOOK EVERYTHING AWAY FROM ME!”

The other guard turns to subdue him, but Viola is quick to retrieve the downed guard’s weapon and kill him with it. 

The advisor cradling Tahlia runs for the door, but we see Viorel nonchalantly locking it and turning to look blankly at them. From behind, we hear Gardner say “Give me the baby.”

We cut to Zelena, who has mounted the conference table and is stabbing someone in the face, screaming “You get everything AND WE HAVE NOTHING!” through tears.

The room is in carnage. Adults are being slain by the children they made into warriors. They did their job too well.

As the chaos draws to an end - the other Braiths becoming exhausted, at least - Kamala stands up, her face and body covered with Northwind’s blood. Through his shredded throat, Northwind makes one final plea.

“For the good of your kingdom… for the good of the world… stop…”

Kamala looks at him, unflinching.

“Your kingdom. Your world.”

Northwind dies. The other Braiths gather around Kamala. Gardner is carrying Tahlia in his arms; she slept through it all.

Zelena asks what they do, and Kamala says they’ll make “them” pay. “Everything we’ve been through… they thought it was all a lie, or they didn’t care. They stood by and let us suffer for their stupid Mantle.

“We’ll show them they were so wrong to do what they did. They’ll feel the pain we felt and more. We’ll take everything they cared about and turn it to dust like they did to us.

“When they’re on their knees, they’ll beg for mercy like we did… …we’ll make them wish they never crawled out of the tidepool. And only then will they finally understand that this is kindness.”

Viorel asks, “You propose we take back the world with only seven children?”

Kamala smirks ask her aura flares. “Viorel… you underestimate what they turned us into.

We could take back the world with one.”

--

Back to the present. Lucius clasps a cup, his hands shaking. He tells Teams RAIN & PALM that his children have been plotting ever since. He feels “their rage, their hate, their hunger, their envy.” It was all he could do to delete all knowledge of Zenith when he was released so that he might keep them isolated - keep them “safe.”

He knows they won’t understand, but they are his children and it pains him to think what might happen when his visitors inevitably arrive at Zenith. He also knows he can’t convince them to turn away, knowing how much of a threat his children are, but he begs them not to make them suffer if it comes to it.

Nyssa pipes up and asks why he never returned to Zenith after being freed. Lucius smiles weakly and explains that as much as he loves his children, he fears them more. He only made it as far as his self-imposed exile between Faraday and Zenith - shame stopped him from turning back, cowardice kept him from continuing on.

His disposition becomes more steely, then, and he stands up. He announces the storm has cleared, and tells his visitors they should go. To keep the sun to their east and aim for a notch between two mountains. 

Aware they have outstayed their welcome, RAIN and PALM pour out of the cave. Robin turns back and tells Lucius she’s sorry for all that has happened. He simply scoffs “Not as much as I.”

RAIN and PALM depart for Zenith, their final destination, but we continue to linger on the image of Lucius Braith, as he slowly sits down in front of the fire again, and runs his hands down his face.

--

We then see all seven Braiths in the elevator that leads down to the PRISM, Kamala at the front of the pack. They walk single-file across the gantry as their leader and eldest sibling explains her plan;

“We know they’re coming, and while we’ll win, we have to plan for the future. Making them pay might take longer than any of our lifetimes, so we have to keep the cause going. We refuse to be snuffed out.”

She gently runs her hand across the PRISM. “I would do it alone, but alone we are only equal to a seventh of… him. So we need to do this together. Just put your hands in the holes.”

All except Tahlia do as they are told, until she is encouraged by Gardner. Closest to the control panel, Viorel flicks a switch. All seven have a piece of their aura sliced for the machine - a machine that only responds to Lucius’s biological imprint, a seventh of which exists in each of them.

As they all clutch their arms in pain - except, of course, Sterling - Kamala produces the most genuine smile she has given in the story and turns to Viorel with only one thing to say as the machine hums to life;

“And now it begins.”

[blackrabbit111]

~Twst android au, prequel draft~

"You are the sole heir to the worlds top tec company that makes everything from military weapons to remotes. Raised alone by your grandfather, you've found yourself alone since his passing and are struggling to find someone to turn too.

On a whim you go looking for one of his crack pot inventions in one of his old factory's. Only to find more then you were looking for"

An au fic I wrote months ago but never shared cuz insecure, But I'm down so I say heck to it 👍

Feed back and critic is appreciated especially on grammar😅Not sure how much I'll keep or if I will even make more but I might as well share what I've already made

The sound of a switch echoed as the warehouse lights shot on in uniform order one by one until the massive hanger sized warehouse was lit up. 

The walls and roof were vast and the rows upon rows of shelves were endless, each filled with who knows what? All different types of machinery, a tec nerd might see this as some gold mine full of decades worth of technology going back nearly fifty years according to your newly bequeathed assistant. 

You hadn’t even changed clothes yet. You were still in these uncomfortable shoes, these stuffy black clothes that were far too warm to wear indoors, even your hair had been newly styled at your “guardians” request. 

You don’t even remember most of the day ... just stepping into the car. 

“Master Yuu?” Your assistant’s voice tore you from your mindlessness, you hadn’t even noticed they’d stopped. You’d just kept walking down the isle of discarded tec. 

“O-oh? Sorry Mira, and please don’t call me that” You asked, your voice quite as always. You hated having to force a smile but manners like other things had been drilled into as a child, so you had no choice. 

“Of course, sorry” She gave you a sympathetic smile, one of the few you’d had despite the circumstance. With your years forcing smiles you had grown to recognize when someone else was faking it too. 

Mira was genuine at least “Are you sure you're up to this? We can wait a few more days?” 

You appreciated the thought, but your hand was going numb from signing forms. The owners of such documents, the sources of most of those forced smiles, they knew better than to be honest about what they wanted. Or else risk upsetting you and with the power you now had none of them could afford such a thing, for some literally. 

You shook your head no “I’m fine, just tierd. This is the third warehouse we’ve checked after all”  

Might as well of been the one hundred with the size of these things?! Your college campus was half the size of the last one 

“Could you go check with the site manager and see if they had any luck tracking it down? I’d like to keep looking around on my own” 

She nodded, lingering a bit before turning back to leave the way you both came her footsteps faded to echo’s and suddenly you were alone. 

The shelves were daunting like this, shaded over from the different levels framed the discarded bot shells in a creepy way. Yet that wasn’t what was on your mind. 

Not much … had been on your mind lately …  

Everything had felt- fuzzy? 

You were never the greatest at showing your feelings, you’d certainly been teased enough because of it growing up. 

It was easier to just make friends. (literally) 

Rustling through your pocket you pulled out an old worn leather-bound book. Its pagers were flakier than the old coot that had left it for you. Sticky notes and faded pages stuck out and fell lose as you flipped back through its ancient pages. 

Sketches, notes and old diagrams were all etched into it. Most had been released, just one of his many sketch books you’d had the ‘joy’ of flipping through. 

But there was one page that had caught your interest, 

“Project Wonderland” God he sucked at naming things. 

Among the faded doodles these few seemed the oldest, added in safter the pages had already been filled? Even Mira didn’t know what it was, and she seemed to have known more about his company than he had. She knew him more than you had... 

“Project Wonderland, Log #037. 

So far, all prototypes for model “Heart” have remained lacking, subject Ace ________ ____hap ___ _______ ___ ___ ___  ___ ____  ___________________ ________Riddle remains____ __________ ,strict rules_ _________. Further_______ ______ ______” 

The rest was too faded. 

Most of the scribbles summed up that amount. Even the more salvageable ones left too many holes to piece together anything that made sense? 

You groaned trying to make sense of it all. This was just a way to get away from all the work you still had to do, Mira’s suggestion, if not you’d probably still be sat behind that oversized desk, in that oversized chair signing the endless rotation of papers brought by your newly acquired legal department.  

Attending the by hourly meetings on new bot colors, branding and all the other topics you didn’t understand. That didn’t stop the bombarding you with requests and asking your opinions … more demanding... 

Day in day out, 

Right up until- 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

 You were again torn from your invasive thoughts, the pitchy voice crying out from your pocket. 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

Pulling the device from your pocket its screeching only seemed to get louder- 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

Small, grey with a bright blue screen. Its body, an old tomogachi toy you had as a kid, now turned into a travel sized version of an ai interface. Your first attempt, robots were child's play to you. At the age of ten you were making drones on par with your grandfathers. You could code before you could spell your own name, which made passing online tests a breeze. 

Ai was different, specifically intelligent ones. 

Nowadays it was rarer to see a machine that didn’t have some type of interface built in, even kid’s toys could remind the child to brush their teeth. But the ones used for androids, the ones running shop tills and driving buses.  

Those were harder for you. 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

“ALRIGHT! Sheesh....” 

 Generated, Response, intelligence, Model #008. Or Grim for short, you were still working out the kinks. Somehow it had begun to prioritize meal notifications, despite it being near 6pm it kept on screaming for lunch until you clicked off its alarm. 

It’s been nearly 2 weeks since you’d last had a free moment to look at the code, which meant round the clock alerts at random. 

You let out an audible groan “Maybe this really is a waste of time? ….....” 

You stared at the old, tattered book in your hands. His name engraved in white tread across the wine-red material 

“......” 

“......” 

“......” 

How were you supposed to feel? You didn’t know? 

You never knew, so when you could you’d just avoid it. Avoid feeling much of anything? 

Hence the names the other kids called you.  

“Freak-droid”, “Robot”, “dumb as a bot” .... it wasn’t your fault; you just weren’t good at being like them. You eventually learned to pretend, to force a smile or a chuckle when needed. 

It was better anyway; the robots were better. 

More time to hone your skills, why make friends when you can build them? That’s what you told yourself. 

Alone at school, alone at home... 

Nothing had changed … those two weeks ago.. 

You were still eating alone,  

Still spending the evenings alone, 

Still walking through those empty halls alone.... 

He was your only family, yet you were lucky if you saw him twice in one week. Either locked in his lab or at the office. He was never there. He was just, not with you, not beside you. 

You’ve always been alone, so why- 

“......” 

Why now … did you feel so- 

“......” 

His name engraved in white tread across the wine-red material 

You looked back at the books cover, His name still engraved in white tread across the wine-red material... 

 He was gone now... 

You were now … alone... 

“......” 

“......” 

“......” 

It was quiet here.... 

“Project ...wonderland?” you mumbled out loud. You don’t know why, but you began giggling. 

This was so unlike you, wandering around aimlessly. After this crazy idea that- that this MYSTERIOUS project could somehow be for you! Could somehow help you explain how to do a job you didn’t want or how you were supposed to feel or how to make this STUPID AI tell you about something other than LUNCH!!! 

“......” 

“......” 

“......” 

It was stupid of you … to think that... 

“......” 

“......” 

“......” 

You sniffled, having to dry your eyes before anything came out. You shook your head trying to think straight. 

It had been a good distraction, but it wasn’t important. You could get some intern to find it for you, you had those now apparently and they seemed despite. They nearly decked each other the first time you met after asking for a drink. 

Give extra credit to whichever one found it~ 

Perfect! You took another sharp inhale and turned to leave, ready to head back to the office. No doubt there would be a whole new stack of papers there to greet you when you arrive. 

Only to crash face first. 

Stumbling back, you looked up confused, there wasn’t anything behind you a moment ago- 

What you saw made you jump.  

He was tall, like REALLY tall. The dim light in of the war house casting his dark slender form in a shadow simply from looking down at you, his raven hair falling over his broad shoulders, his chiseled features pale as a ghost yet sharp and defined. 

He looked almost ethereal, if not for his eyes... 

They cut through the shadow that painted his form as if they glowed like screens in the dark. 

A piercing green that seemed to dance through the many shades, cut through by the black slit of his pupils. 

You were speechless, almost afraid to move in case he might pounce. A green grew on his face, as if your nerves amused him. 

“Are you okay?” 

His voice was deep, smooth, yet his tone was gentle? You were able to relax a little more but were still wary. Why was he here? Had he been following you?! 

“What do you want?” You ask bluntly, your voice is flat, yet he only seems to grin more at it letting out a small chuckle. 

“You were looking for something weren’t you? It’s a big facility, so I thought you could use some help” 

“How did you-?!” 

“Your assistant went back to speak the site manager; I noticed you weren’t with her, I’m sorry if I'm interrupting you” His appearance was still daunting, but he seemed genuine enough? You assumed he must work here. 

“O-oh? No, it’s alright, thank you. I was just heading back anyway” 

His head tilts “No luck then?” 

You shock your head “Something like that” Your forced smile grew back, deciding to be pleasant instead “I have better things to be doing is all, could you point me towards the exit?”   

A hand lifts to his chin as he lets out a hum in thought. 

“I believe I know a short cut? You took a rather unorthodox route here from what I could tell” He beamed again raising one hand to his chest while extending the other to guide the way, his sleek yet dark appearance, butler like movements plus his kind smile brought to mind a certain show you’d watched a few years ago? 

You thanked him, walking past him down the isles weaving left or right with his direction. 

He walked a few steps behind you simply directing you as a turn came up, otherwise you were both silent. 

The route was bizarre? Weaving in and out like an ally cat over a neighborhood's walls or roof tops, a fair comparison with his dark hair and and bright eye color, all in all you felt more lost than anything? 

Did he really know the way? His assuring nature just made him feel like he knew what he was talking about? 

“Sorry, but are you sure-?” Concerned, you turned to ask him about where he was taking you only to find more empty isles of shelves. This tall dark stranger had vanished, you looked around thinking you might have just gotten ahead of him? But he was nowhere to be seen... 

You cursed under your breath.... 

He had ditched you, you felt stupid for not too of seen this coming. After your little “Episode” you’d been so frustrated to get out you didn’t even think about it. At least he’d only gotten you lost, given your new net worth MUCH worse could have happened. 

You let out another sigh, you were really done with this. 

You began to dig around in your pocket for your phone, deciding to just call Mira and the staff to come find you. 

As you pulled it out your annoying- you're in need of updating Tamagotchi toy tumbled out with it. 

You groaned again, just one more thing gone wrong. 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

It had slid under one of the shelving units, peering underneath you could just see it on the other side. The lights were out on that side, so it was a little hard to tell? 

After failing to swat at it you relented to having to try squeeze between the gaps of the two units, it was tight and the creaking noises it made as you nudged it made you nervous- 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

But you knew it wouldn’t stop sending alerts if you didn’t get it... 

So, between the metal frames it was~! 

Squeezing your way through, you just managed to make it without knocking much off, you finally reach this annoying pest of a program. 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lunch time! - 

-Nya! Lu- 

And off it goes.... 

You’re about to plop your ‘pet’ back in your pocket when a light catches your eye? 

A low flash of red was glowing from the corner pile. 

This space was narrow, a small corner tucked away behind the shelves you hadn’t been able to see with the lack of lighting and old parts blocking your view from the isle. 

Walled in by the units and the warehouse walls, meaning you could just barely squeeze in. 

Stumbling a bit, you saw the source of the low red light. 

Two sleek metal crates, each taller yourself, were stacked against the wall tucked away between bits of cardboard. Each one looked huge black versions of those fancy box's phones come in, the red light shining from beneath its seal? 

Both metal caskets had gold engraving carved into their surfaces, some type of registration number and a symbol?  

“A1-164-♥ & D2-164-♥?” each read with a golden heart displayed above? 

It took a moment to click before you were again digging through your back pocket for the withered remains of a notebook, he’d left you. 

-Model Heart- 

“Project … wonderland?” you mumbled aloud now looking at these caskets like they were some mythical creatures that had hopped out from a children's story. 

Digging through the faded pages had already been difficult, now near impossible with only the glow of these things to see. You scanned it for anything that still counted as language that mentioned these things?  

Finally, a passage mostly filled with flawed calculations caught your eye 

“___ ________ ____ sleep mode while ins____, 

_____ _______________ _______urther funds ____ ______ coffins develop___” 

“____subject Silv____ ___ _______ ________ more time in sleep_____.  

_______ _____ bug reports t_ ___________ later.” 

The rest is more faded calculations. 

The texts were mostly useless, it was the sketches that caught your eye. 

Like most of this leather-bound pile of dust the sketches were rough, looking to be more concepts rather than any type of blueprints? They mentioned some type of access panel on the front, molded to match one of the seven symbols outlined in more detail earlier in the notes. 

It was easy to assume it was that gold heart etched into the metal caskets casing. 

You didn’t really think, more just acted. 

Reaching out, you laced your palm over the etching of a golden heart. 

Nothing happened, at first, but suddenly the gold coloring was painted over by that same crimson red from under the seal. The etching became filled in causing you to flinch and pull your hand back, as if it had sent some type of signal to its twin, the other caskets matching heart also lit up now an almost blinding light. 

“Palm scan complete~ 

Connection established” An obnoxiously cheery voice sang 

“Running security check, 

Running diagnostics check, 

Running personal check” It read off line after line, running upload bars through one after the other. Most of the more complicated one’s were lost on you and your limited knowledge of software; it was much easier for you to follow the hardware terminology meaning at the very least you could piece together it was running checks on some type of high moveability machine? 

“All preparation checks complete for model’s A1-164-♥ & D2-164-♥. 

How gracious~ 

Beginning reupload of data files of model’s A1-164-♥ & D2-164-♥” It had all loaded pretty quickly until now, each screen uploading in seconds, but now- 

“Loading- 

Loading- 

Loading- 

-ERROR- 

Unable to recover crucial data, beginning recovery measures- 

-ERROR- 

-ERROR- 

-ERROR-” Both screens began to flash with alerts, as if the system’s attempts to recover whatever it couldn’t was somehow causing the other files to corrupt. You were by no means an expert, but you knew if you didn’t act soon the whole system would be unsalvageable 

“-ERROR- 

-ERROR- 

-ERROR-” still panicked, you put your hand back to the screen swiping away as many of the alerts as you could to try and get at the recovery icon. 

“-ERROR- 

-ERROR-” 

The alerts were popping up faster than you could close them, with little other choice you did the only thing you could think of in this panicked moment 

“Cancel recovery measures! Proceed with upload as is!” You yelled hoping for some type of response, and just as you did the corrupting screens froze, the loading bar froze, the whole screen froze …. before another loading bar popped up. 

Slowly it filled, there was a brief pause before- 

“Upload complete~ 

All systems ready, deactivating sleep mode for models A1-164-♥ & D2-164-♥” 

A relived sigh escaped you, the screen shut off before the crimson glow faded as both seals jutted forward a white cloud of steam blowing out as the casket undid its releases. 

The doors slid open, tucking their lids around each of their left sides. 

The cloud died down finally letting you see inside, having the squint at first you thought at first you were mistaken. But now you were certain, two figures stood within. 

One with boyish features, red spikey hair and a heart shape painted over one eye. 

The other slightly taller, features sharper with flat raven hair and a spade shape painted to match their opposite. 

Wide eyed, you didn’t notice you held a breath once they stepped forward. You tried to speak, ask them questions like if they were okay or why they were in there? Only for it to come out as mumbles once their eyes both shot open in synch. That same pixelated crimson flashing over their eyes only to fade again replaced by their respective red and blue iris’s. 

The red one blinked, you held your breath again... 

The blue one held its head staggering a bit before both their sights landed on you. 

…..... 

…..... 

….... 

You all stood their starring for a moment; afraid moving might activate some attack mode or- 

“Excuse me but-” 

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH?!!?” 

[freedomkindness]

For my American Friends

I feel now is a good time to spread this news. Much like how the internet came together to help share information with the Ukrainians for resisting Russia, I’m here delivering help of a similar nature to those that could be impacted by this latest election in the US. There are ways to communicate relatively securely, outside of Big Brother's social media. I bring this up so that we can minimize the amount of gatherable information that could be used to hurt you, or others you know, in the coming years as changes are made. I'm not going to tell you how or why to use them, I'm just going to provide you with the information.

WhatsApp – While not my personal favorite, since Facebook/Meta is the parent company, WhatsApp is free, globally popular, and widely-used, featuring the ability to lock chats with passwords, disappearing messages, photos and videos that are deleted after being opened, profile photo privacy, the ability to lock the app itself so that only your biometrics can unlock it, encrypted backups, the ability to set custom permissions for who can see you online or when you last used the app, and of course End-to-End Encryption for all conversations EXCEPT those with business accounts. WhatsApp is a good option for those who are not really technically savvy, but still value privacy – if one trusts Facebook/Meta to adequately protect their privacy. It does require a phone number to sign up, however.

Signal - Signal is an end-to-end encrypted messaging software. meaning that the contents of your conversation is secure. The protocol they use (which they created) is seen as the best known protocol for asynchronous messaging by cybersecurity researchers. It's so good that it has been implemented in WhatsApp and in Messenger's secret chats. This app has even been mentioned in the Right-wing author Jack Carr's Political Thriller about a Navy SEAL named James Reece, as being a preferred method of secure communication on the civilian side for operators. (Jack Carr is a former US Navy SEAL.) It's run by a Non-Profit organization called Signal Foundation, and it's mission is to "protect free expression and enable secure global communication through open source privacy technology." It allows secure messaging, voice calls, and video calls. The only downside is that app links to your phone number, so while your conversations and content are secure, who you are talking to is not. Signal is available on Windows, Mac, Andriod, Linus, and iOS.

Session - Session is an end-to-end encrypted messenger that minimises sensitive metadata, designed and built for people who want absolute privacy and freedom from any form of surveillance. Session is an open-source, public-key-based secure messaging application which uses a set of decentralized storage servers and an onion routing protocol to send end-to-end encrypted messages with minimal exposure of user metadata. This means no phone numbers, no metadata for digital footprints, and censorship resistance. It features group chats, the ability to send documents, files, and images securely, and has added voice messages, though these can be spotty. It’s slow, but effective, and be downloaded on Android, F-Droid, iPhone, Mac, Windows, and Linux.

Briar - If you have an Android phone, Briar is another option you have. It features a decentralized network (it’s peer-to-peer encrypted, rather than relying on a central server), meaning messages are synced directly between user devices. It also means that even if the internet is down, it can sync via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or even memory cards, meaning information can continue to flow even during a crisis. In the event the internet is functioning, it can sync via the Tor network, protecting users and their relationships from surveillance. Other features: - Screenshots and screen recording are disabled by default - Each user’s contact list is encrypted and stored on her own device. - Briar’s end-to-end encryption prevents keyword filtering, and because of its decentralized design there are no servers to block. - Every user who subscribes to a forum keeps a copy of its content, so there’s no single point where a post can be deleted. - Briar’s forums have no central server to attack, and every subscriber has access to the content even if they’re offline. - Doesn’t require any user data like name and phone number. The downside is that it is text-only and limited to Android Devices, but they do offer Briar Mailbox to deliver messages securely to those who are online at different times. Briar’s goal is “to enable people in any country to create safe spaces where they can debate any topic, plan events, and organize social movements”

Protonmail - A free end-to-end encrypted AND zero-access encryption email service based out of Switzerland, you can safely email with peace of mind that your content is secure. Unlike Google, Outlook, Yahoo, and others, Proton's zero-access encryption means they can't even view the contents of your emails or attachments. As a Swiss-owned company they are not allowed to share information with foreign law enforcement under criminal penalty and they are politically neutral, meaning they won't be pressured by foreign governments. Furthermore, Switzerland has a constitutional right to privacy and strict data protection laws. Unlike companies in other countries, Proton cannot be compelled by foreign or Swiss authorities to engage in bulk surveillance.

Additional Information, from Proton’s Website: Switzerland has strong legal protections for individual rights, and in fact the Swiss Federal Constitution(new window) explicitly establishes a constitutional right to privacy. (In the US, this right is merely implied.) Specifically, Article 13 safeguards privacy in personal or family life and within one’s home, and the Swiss Civil Code(new window) translates this right into statutory law in Article 28.

In the US and EU, authorities can issue gag orders to prevent an individual from knowing they are being investigated or under surveillance. While this type of order also exists in Switzerland, the prosecutors have an obligation to notify the target of surveillance, and the target has an opportunity to appeal in court. In Switzerland, there are no such things as national security letters(new window), and all surveillance requests must go through the courts. Warrantless surveillance, like that practiced in the US where the FBI conducts 3.4 million searches per year(new window) with little oversight, is illegal and not permitted in Switzerland.

Switzerland also benefits from a unique legal provision with Article 271 of the Swiss Criminal Code(new window), which forbids any Swiss company from assisting foreign law enforcement, under threat of criminal penalty. While Switzerland is party to certain international legal assistance agreements, all requests under such agreements must hold up under Swiss law, which has much stricter privacy provisions. All foreign requests are assessed by the Swiss government, which generally does not assist requests from countries with poor rule of law or lack an independent judiciary.

Swiss law has several more unique points. First, it preserves end-to-end encryption, and unlike in the US, UK, or EU, there is no legislation that has been introduced or considered to limit the right to encryption. Second, Swiss law protects no-logs VPN(new window) meaning that Proton VPN does not have logging obligations. While numerous VPNs claim no-logs, these claims generally do not stand up legally because in most jurisdictions, governments can request that the VPN in question starts logging. So the VPN is only no-logs until the government asks. However, in Switzerland, the law does not allow the government to compel Proton VPN to start logging.

We’ve also fought to ensure that Switzerland remains a legal jurisdiction that respects and protects privacy.

Nearly every country in the world has laws governing lawful interception of electronic communications for law enforcement purposes. In Switzerland, these regulations are set out in the Swiss Federal Act on the Surveillance of Post and Telecommunications (SPTA), which was last revised on March 18, 2018. In May 2020, we challenged a decision of the Swiss government over what we believed was an improper attempt to use telecommunications laws to undermine privacy.

In October 2021, The Swiss Federal Administrative Court ultimately agreed with us and ruled that email companies cannot be considered telecommunication providers. This means Proton isn’t required to follow any of the SPTA’s mandatory data retention rules, nor are we bound by a full obligation to identify Proton Mail users. Moreover, as a Swiss company, Proton Mail cannot be compelled to engage in bulk surveillance on behalf of US or Swiss intelligence agencies. (Links can be found at: proton.me/blog/switzerland)

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

Catch me in Miami! I'll be at Books and Books in Coral Gables on Jan 22 at 8PM.

#20yrsago Vote absentee, avoid Diebold machines http://www.zephoria.org/thoughts/archives/2004/01/22/avoid_diebold_register_absentee.html

#20yrsago Air travel “security” as theater of the absurd https://web.archive.org/web/20040130200202/https://idlewords.com/2004/01/security_as_theater.htm

#20yrsago GOP electronically burgled Dems’ computers https://arstechnica.com/uncategorized/2004/01/3327-2/

#20yrsago Milne heirs don’t own Pooh https://web.archive.org/web/20040211100427/http://www.scifi.com/scifiwire/art-main.html?2004-01/22/11.45.film

#20yrsago DVD cartel backs off, EFF wins, DVD keys aren’t “secret” https://www.eff.org/cases/dvdcca-v-bunner-and-dvdcca-v-pavlovich

#15yrsago Monty Python’s free web video increased DVD sales by 23,000 percent https://mashable.com/archive/youtube-boost-sales

#15yrsago National Film Board of Canada puts its archives online, free https://www.nfb.ca/explore-all-films/

#10yrsago Animal Planet’s “nature” shows: whistleblowers detail crimes, animal cruelty, fakery https://www.motherjones.com/environment/2014/01/animal-abuse-drugs-call-of-the-wildman-animal-planet/

#10yrsago Teach your rooted Android phones to lie to apps about whether it’s rooted https://lifehacker.com/rootcloak-hides-root-access-from-specific-applications-1505596942

#10yrsago Eyes on the Prize, famed civil rights documentary series, is back on DVD and Youtube https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/eyesontheprize/

#10yrsago One Soul: 18 interwoven lives in a graphic novel that pushes the boundaries https://memex.craphound.com/2014/01/22/one-soul-18-interwoven-lives-in-a-graphic-novel-that-pushes-the-boundaries/

#5yrsago Senator Mark Warner’s Stop STUPIDITY Act would protect federal employees’ pay during shutdowns https://www.scribd.com/document/398006535/Stop-the-Shutdowns-Transferring-Unnecessary-Pain-and-Inflicting-Damage-In-The-Coming-Years-Act

#5yrsago Republican Arizona lawmaker revives doomed “porn tax” to fund Trump’s doomed border-wall https://www.vice.com/en/article/gyapwj/arizona-porn-blocking-bill-trump-border-wall

#5yrsago An annotated bibliography of anarchism in science fiction https://www.anarchysf.com

#5yrsago The sad history of Livejournal as a lens for understanding the state of social media today https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2019/01/the-linux-of-social-media-how-livejournal-pioneered-then-lost-web-blogging/

#5yrsago Teen Vogue explainer: what are “resistance, rebellion, and revolution?” https://www.teenvogue.com/story/resistance-rebellion-revolution-explainer-interviews

#5yrsago English and Welsh Ramblers have seven years left to catalogue the nation’s footpaths, or they will be absorbed into private lands https://www.newyorker.com/news/letter-from-the-uk/the-search-for-englands-forgotten-footpaths

#5yrsago A list of all the booze in Casablanca (surprisingly long!) https://www.wired.com/beyond-the-beyond/2019/01/booze-gin-joints-crazy-world/

#1yrago Walking the Plank https://pluralistic.net/2023/01/22/walking-the-plank/

I'm Kickstarting the audiobook for The Bezzle, the sequel to Red Team Blues, narrated by @wilwheaton! You can pre-order the audiobook and ebook, DRM free, as well as the hardcover, signed or unsigned. There's also bundles with Red Team Blues in ebook, audio or paperback.

[annaktaylor65]

DefAds AI App

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there is no specific "DefAds AI App" that I am aware of. However, I can guide you on how to install and use an AI-powered application in a general sense. If "DefAds AI App" is a new app developed after my last update, I recommend referring to the app's official website or the app store for the most up-to-date and accurate instructions.

Here are general steps to install and use an AI-powered application:

Check for Availability and Compatibilit. Verify that the "DefAds AI App" is available on your desired platform (iOS, Android, Windows, etc.). Ensure your device meets the system requirements.

Download and Install a. Go to the respective app store (e.g., Apple App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android). b. Search for "DefAds AI App" in the search bar. c. Locate the app and tap "Install" (for Android) or "Get" (for iOS) to download and install the app.

Open the App Once the app is installed, tap the app icon on your device to open it.

Sign Up or Log In If required, create an account or log in with your existing credentials.

Explore the App Navigate through the app's features and options to familiarize yourself with its functionalities.

Use the AI Features Follow the app's instructions to use the AI-powered features or tools it provides. This might include uploading images, providing text inputs, or interacting with the AI in some way.

Follow Guidelines and Instructions Pay attention to any tutorials, guidelines, or onboarding processes provided within the app to make the most of its AI capabilities. If you need specific help or encounter issues while using the "DefAds AI App," I recommend reaching out to the app's official support or consulting the app's documentation or customer service for assistance. INSTALL APPLE IOS- https://getyourtools.app/APP-STORE

[cashappscontact]

7 Easy Steps to Cash App Sign In and Log In

The Cash App sign-in procedure is as simple as downloading this app from the Play Store. If you haven't yet downloaded Cash App, it's a good idea to download and complete your Cash App login today. Cash App is a user-friendly app that lets you move money between the app and your bank account. You can also send money from your bank account to the Cash App or the other way around, even without using a debit or credit card. It's especially beneficial for parents who want to teach money management to their teens.

Now, let's dive into how to get into your account for Cash App sign-in.

How to Get Your Cash App Account:

Step 1: Download the App or Open It: First things first, if you haven't already, download the Cash App from the App Store or Google Play. If you've got it already, open the app.

Step 2: Sign In: You'll see a button that says "Sign In." Tap on that. You can use your phone number or email to get started.

Step 3: Confirmation Code: After you enter your info, they'll send you a code to make sure it's you. Type in that code, and you're in. If you're into cool stuff, you can set up a fingerprint or Face ID for quick access next time.

Don't Have the App? No Worries!

You can still complete the Cash App sign-in process without the app. Just open your web browser and go to the Cash App website. You'll find a sign-up page there. Enter your email or phone number, and they'll send you a special code. Click on that code, and you're almost there.

You can link your bank account by putting in your account and routing numbers. The Cash App will send a tiny bit of money to your account, check everything is right. Confirm the amount they sent, and you're all set up. So, no app? No problem!

What About Cash App Signing in with Email?

Signing up with your email is super easy. Just download the app, and when you open it for the first time, they'll ask you for a Cash App sign-up. Tap "Sign Up," put in your email, and create a strong password. The app will share a code on your email. Check your inbox or spam folder, type in the code, and bam, you're ready to manage your hard-earned money with Cash App.

Documents You Need for Cash App Sign-Up:

To sign in, all you need is a working email or phone number. That's how you create your account. But, if you want to link your bank account or add a debit card, you might need some bank info or card details.

What's Cash App Login?

Cash App login means getting into your account to handle your money stuff. You can send money, receive it, and do more with it. Remember, you cannot use the $Cashtag identifier for Cash App login, go to the Cash App website or open the app, put in your email or phone number, and your password. Once they confirm it's you, you're good to go.

Cash App Logging in on Android:

If you're using an Android device, here's how you log in: Open the app, enter your email or phone number, put in your password, and log in.

Trouble Signing In? Here's Help:

If Cash App gives you a hard time signing in, here's what you can do:

Check your internet connection.

Log out and log in again.

Restart your device and try again.

Clear the app's cache or update it.

Double-check your login info.

How to Change Your Password for Cash App Sign in?

Changing your password is easy. Open the Cash App, tap your profile icon, go to "Privacy & Security," then "Change Password." Enter your old and new passwords, and you're all set.

Signing In on a New Phone:

Download the Cash App on your new phone, open it, hit "Sign In," and enter your email, number, and password. Now manage your money on your new device.

That's the details on Cash App sign-in and Cash App login. It's a simple way to handle your money, send cash, and keep track of your funds.

[thetadispatcher]

Nines could agree that some androids might not like to know the truth behind deviancy, but he still felt it was worth discovering, so those responsible could be held accountable for all the death and destruction caused by it.

"Some might even be disappointed by learning the identity of rA9, the android to first become deviant, as they might not be this God like figure many believe them to be." The RK900 understood the importance of locating this rA9 many androids spoke of, it was proving to be difficult as there was never a model or prototype with that designation. The task was made more troubling when Peter had suggested it was a part of deviant code, which meant it would be useless in locating the original deviant, but he wasn't about to give up on it as there was a chance it could still be useful information, he just needed to find out more.

"The oldest deviancy case would be a HB300 named Seiji in Japan, he left the boundaries of the hospital he was required to be in at all times in 2028 and has never returned. He would've been in contact with many androids daily, but with the finding of Kelvin makes it unlikely the HB300 is the source. Kelvin was deactivated in 2026, and showed signs of deviancy when reactivated." Nines felt if he could access Kelvin's memory and code he could determine if the android had been the first deviant, and how the virus code spread.

"Unfortunately he is in a serious state of disrepair the makes interfacing with him impossible, but if he is this patient zero or rA9 then the virus code was likely embedded in something he sent Cyberlife, likely a damage report or something else far more important. Which would've been spread to any android that downloaded the report and slowly spread from there." He felt that if Kelvin had sent something to Cyberlife, it had to have been extremely important to have an android with the report downloaded to bring up whenever a human requested it.

"Kamski stepped down as CEO in 2028, which is when the first case is documented meaning that he likely knew the virus had left the confines of Cyberlife." An official reason for the man's departure was never given, only theories, so the RK900 felt he'd have to speculate until he was able to get solid information.

"I also wish to view Markus' code as well, he was a gift to Carl Manfred from Kamski himself in 2031, and the one of two androids with the ability to deviate others just by touching them. Connor possesses this ability, but it is less potent then the RK200's, so his reluctance to have his code searched is excusable. Markus is the one that will provide far more answers." He felt it suspicious that an android Kamski made himself would be the leader of the revolution, and have the unique ability to force other androids to deviate from touching them briefly.

"He has denied my request, so it will have to be obtained in a less polite fashion due to this not being an official investigation yet." He knew if he approached the Captain with the case he wouldn't agree to it, so he planned to get all the information he needed to make sure the man would have to allow it. "I may have to employ him for this as I am easily recognizable to the Jericho androids, so I would be identified very quickly if I damage him." He had come up with a few ideas to get the code, one being damaging Markus' head as he would likely employ Peter to fix it and the human would copy the code to his computers to check for errors. Nines then would just have to lure the human away, a far easier task, and copy the code to his memory.

Dan noted the look Willow gave the two androids as they interacted, feeling he should offer an explanation to the odd behavior. "Ellis lacks social protocols, so he's still learning how to interact with others. I think he's doing well so far." Sure the android made mistakes, but they were understandable mistakes he couldn't be faulted for as he was doing his best to learn.

Ellis smiled slightly at the older android, clearly enjoying being told when he was doing a good job.

Kelvin watched the AP700 curiously, he had seen Vincent before but the newer android never stayed put long enough for him to get a good look at him. He tilted his head slightly as he noticed Vincent's bent ear, deciding to take a closer look he approached the AP700. An action that Vincent didn't notice as he was too focused on his work instead of his surroundings.

He immediately froze as Kelvin touched his damaged ear, instantly jerking away when a gloved finger brushed over the exposed components on the back of his ear. The quick spike of pain caused Vincent to yelp, his hand shot up to cover his ear as he looked back at the other android.

Dan glanced back at the two over his shoulder, quickly assessing that Vincent was unharmed and the two had merely startled each other. Ellis quickly moved Kelvin away from the AP700 as he noted Vincent's flashing red LED, signalling Vincent was no longer comfortable with Kelvin being near him.

Dan took the time to grab a pair of liquor bottles from the top of the fridge, grabbing a glass from the cabinet nearby as well and set them down. He grabbed a small container of milk from the fridge and two ice cubes from the freezer. He prepared the drink and handed it to Vincent, giving him a wireless command to give the AP700 something to do, so he had a moment to calm down.

Vincent took the glass then left the kitchen, he cautiously approached the human Bishop and set it near him. "Dan.... Dan said this is for you." He spoke after a moment, keeping his voice just above a whisper. He bowed his head at the man then hurried off back to the kitchen to resume his other task.

"I will have to do that, it would be nice to know more about Kelvin and possibly the people who owned him." Dan was curious about the company who had owned Kelvin as not much information existed about it, and it felt odd they had ordered custom units from Cyberlife so early on.

"Sounds like you must've seen something alarming, can I ask what it was?" He was fine with not getting an immediate answer, as from how the two spoke it was clear he'd learn eventually what was going on. He glanced at Vincent as the android returned, his LED having returned to a solid red which was an improvement.

He grabbed a bowl and a pot, setting the pot on the stove top as he turned on the burner. He placed the butter into the pot, letting it melt as he measured out the dry ingredients into the bowl. Setting the bowl to the side once the butter was melted, Dan took it off the burner once it was turned off and added cocoa, oil and instant coffee to the pot.

"Brent had a bit of a set back, but he has let me know it's been dealt with so he should be done within 30 minutes." Dan wasn't surprised to hear one of the parts printers had gone down since they'd never used them this much before.

He added eggs and sugar to the pot after taking a moment to beat the eggs, then carefully added the mixture in the pot to the bowl. The PL600 grabbed out a pan once the two were properly combined, spreading the batter into the pan, setting the ovens time to 25 minutes after placing the pan inside.

Dan moved on to the next steps as he talked. "I only looked a little bit into this Jack Holt man, and I must say he's not the best example of a human." He shook his head. "Marrying the daughter of someone you called a friend is rather... Deplorable."

"I'm sure some would be disappointed to hear this, but evolution doesn't exactly happens by mistake. The deviancy had to have been caused by something Cyberlife did."

Of course, that didn't necessarily prove Kamski had a direct hand in it as he claimed, but the opposite case would imply the company failed to detect an extremely serious case of sabotage. That being said, if Willow expressed a wish to kill the man, then he was definitely implied in this.

But of course, that wouldn't be worth anything in court. Bishop pushed his shades up as he considered the logistics of identifying patient zero.

"Well, obviously reducing the timeframe would improve the chances of finding that android. Patient zero should be searched among those androids that were placed in roles that allowed them to interact with as many more as possible. It's rather simple."

Being a stubborn man, Bishop didn't see why this had to wait until Peter had something to say on the matter.

"And if you can't expose yourself, get my copycat on the case. He isn't afraid to ask questions." Whatever passed for questions with these two.

"The pleasure is mine." Willow replied. She watched the brief interaction between Ellis and Kelvin with a curious look. The two of them were very different from all the androids she got to observe so far.

"Maybe you should give sign language a try." Rook said.

"Another attempt might be more successful now." Willow confirmed. She wasn't familiar with the recipe Dan wanted to try, but it sounded promising.

She moved to stand in a better position from where she would be able to watch without being in the way.

"Well, the circumstances of the accident that left Kelvin in this state are most concerning. I may look into it once our current quest is complete."

"It must be bad if Willow wants to go on another adventure right away." Rook said while eyeing Vincent. If he was around, then his shadow had to be nearby.

Though it seemed the version of Bishop she found to be slightly more likable was more interested in his lookalike at the moment.

[dropitservices]

Dropit: Transforming Urban Logistics with Fast, Affordable & Eco-Friendly Delivery

In the ever-growing landscape of hyperlocal delivery services, the demand for speed, transparency, and sustainability is rising. Whether you’re a busy professional, an entrepreneur, or a student in a bustling city, you need a delivery partner that’s reliable, instant, and eco-conscious.

Enter Dropit  India’s smart, affordable, and green last-mile delivery solution.

From instant courier services to real-time tracking, Dropit is designed for the modern user who values time, convenience, and the environment. More than just a courier app, Dropit is a tech-powered logistics platform that empowers both individuals and businesses to send parcels seamlessly while contributing to a greener tomorrow.

What is Dropit?

Dropit is an innovative on-demand delivery app based in India that provides instant and scheduled deliveries through a fleet of eco-friendly cycles, EVs, and trained riders. It supports a range of delivery needs including documents, food, electronics, personal packages, and retail products.

Unlike traditional logistics companies, Dropit offers:

Affordable courier service

Live parcel tracking

Same-day pickup and delivery

Green logistics through EV cycles

Empowerment of local youth through a teen-earning model

Whether you're a customer looking to send something across town, or a business needing last-mile delivery, Dropit provides a fast, scalable, and efficient solution.

Who Is Dropit for?

Individuals:

Need to send forgotten keys, birthday gifts, or college notes? Use Dropit’s app to schedule instant pickups and deliveries across your city.

Businesses:

SMEs, local stores, and eCommerce start-ups can integrate Dropit into their operations to:

Eliminate logistics headaches

Enable hyperlocal delivery

Scale efficiently without investing in infrastructure

Retailers & D2C Brands:

With customers expecting same-day delivery, Dropit becomes a growth partner for D2C and local retailers looking to deliver faster than the competition.

Dropit’s Key Features

✅ Instant & Scheduled Deliveries

Use Dropit to book a courier right now, or plan your delivery ahead with its scheduled pickup option. Whether it's urgent or routine, Dropit adapts to your timeline.

✅ Real-Time Tracking

Customers can follow their courier live on the Dropit app, from pickup to delivery, ensuring trust, transparency, and peace of mind.

✅ Green Logistics

Dropit operates via electric vehicles and bicycles, cutting carbon emissions while ensuring quiet, efficient city transport. It’s a powerful answer to India’s rising air pollution crisis.

✅ Teen Earning Model

Empowering youth is at the heart of Dropit. The platform provides flexible part-time jobs for teenagers and students, giving them real income opportunities while solving urban delivery needs.

✅ Affordable & Transparent Pricing

Forget hidden charges or surcharges. Dropit offers clear rate cards, with affordable options for small and medium parcels. It’s one of the most budget-friendly courier services in the market.

How Dropit Works

Getting started with Dropit is simple:

Download the app (available on Android & iOS)

Sign up and enter pickup/delivery addresses

Choose ‘Now’ or ‘Schedule’

Select your parcel size and confirm pricing

Track your courier live as they pick up and deliver your package

Receive instant proof of delivery via the app

It’s modern logistics in your pocket convenient, intuitive, and built for speed.

Eco-Friendly Delivery: The Future of Urban Transport

One of Dropit's core innovations is its use of electric vehicles and bicycles to perform deliveries. These choices:

Reduce noise and air pollution

Lower greenhouse gas emissions

Help India meet its net-zero carbon goals

Make cities more liveable

By choosing Dropit, customers support a courier system that’s kind to the planet and perfectly aligned with India’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Empowering the Next Generation

Dropit’s teen earning model is a rare and thoughtful inclusion in the logistics sector. By offering jobs to young students (with parental consent and proper training), Dropit:

Builds work ethic and time management skills

Supports educational expenses

Promotes responsible work culture among teens

Boosts hyperlocal gig economy participation

This approach not only addresses the manpower shortage in logistics but also creates real, social impact.

Why India Needs Dropit

India’s urban centers are getting denser and busier. The eCommerce boom, gig economy, and tech-savvy population have created a perfect storm for on-demand logistics. Yet, we also face:

Rising air pollution

Youth unemployment

Delays in last-mile delivery

Dropit addresses all three through its clean-tech courier model, social employment platform, and tech-driven delivery system.

The Dropit Advantage

✅ Zero-emission deliveries

✅ Instant parcel movement

✅ Verified pickup & drop

✅ Track in real-time

✅ Support for youth employment

✅ Highly affordable service

✅ Perfect for businesses & individuals

Dropit isn’t just a courier it’s a platform that delivers value, trust, and sustainability in every mile.

Try Dropit Today

If you're tired of:

Waiting for unreliable deliveries

Paying too much for local courier services

Wondering where your package is

Wanting to support eco-friendly businesses

Then it’s time to make the switch.

👉 Download the app to experience smarter, greener logistics.

Final Thoughts

In a time when convenience often comes at the cost of the environment or ethics, Dropit proves you don’t have to choose. With a clear mission, user-friendly technology, and real community impact, Dropit is setting the standard for the next generation of courier services in India.

So, the next time you need to send something big or small  Don’t delay. Just Dropit.

[xaltius]

How to survive a cyberattack: A cyberattack survival guide

The modern world runs on data, and unfortunately, so do modern criminals. Cyberattacks are no longer abstract threats; they are a stark reality for individuals and businesses alike. From phishing scams that trick you into revealing your passwords to ransomware that locks up your precious files, the question isn't if you'll face a cyberattack, but when.

Panic is the enemy of effective response. A clear, actionable plan, much like a fire drill, can drastically minimize damage and speed up recovery. This is your cyberattack survival guide.

Before the Storm: Preparation is Key

Prevention is always better than cure. Invest time in these foundational steps:

Strong Passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

Use long, complex, and unique passwords for every account. A password manager is your best friend here.

Crucially, enable MFA on every account that offers it. This adds a vital second layer of defense. Even if your password is stolen, the attacker can't get in without that second factor.

Regular Backups:

Back up your critical data (documents, photos, videos) frequently to an external hard drive or a reputable cloud service.

Crucial Tip: Keep at least one backup offline (disconnected from your network) to protect it from ransomware.

Keep Software Updated:

Enable automatic updates for your operating system (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) and all applications. Patches often fix security vulnerabilities that criminals exploit.

Install Antivirus/Anti-malware Software:

Use reputable security software and keep its definitions updated. Run regular scans.

Be Phishing-Savvy:

Learn to recognize phishing emails, texts, and calls. Never click suspicious links or open attachments from unknown senders. Always verify the sender's identity and the URL before entering credentials.

Understand Your Digital Footprint:

Limit the personal information you share online. Review your privacy settings on social media and other platforms.

During the Attack: Act Fast, Isolate, Assess

This is the critical phase. Your immediate actions can determine the severity of the damage.

Signs You Might Be Under Attack:

Unexpected Pop-ups or System Messages: Especially those demanding payment.

Locked Files or a Ransom Note: Clear sign of ransomware.

Unusual Account Activity: Emails sent from your account that you didn't write, strange transactions, or unauthorized logins.

Device Performance Issues: Your computer running unusually slow, crashing, or programs opening/closing on their own.

Mouse Moving Autonomously: A chilling sign someone has remote control.

Antivirus/Firewall Disabled: Attackers often try to disable your security software.

Friends/Contacts Receiving Strange Messages from You: Indicates your account is compromised.

Immediate Actions – The "Cyber 911":

DISCONNECT IMMEDIATELY: This is your absolute first priority.

For Wi-Fi: Turn off Wi-Fi on your device(s). For a home network, unplug your router.

For Ethernet: Unplug the Ethernet cable from your computer.

Why? This prevents the attack from spreading (if it's malware/ransomware) or stops data exfiltration. Do not shut down your device if it's a ransomware attack, as it might erase crucial forensic evidence or corrupt encryption in progress. Just disconnect.

Identify the Nature of the Attack:

Is it ransomware? (Files encrypted, ransom note).

Is it a compromised account? (Unauthorized emails, social media posts).

Is it general malware? (Slow performance, pop-ups).

Knowing the type helps guide your next steps.

Document Everything:

Take screenshots of ransom notes, error messages, suspicious activity, or unusual changes.

Note down dates, times, and any specific details (e.g., wallet addresses in a ransom note). This will be crucial for recovery and potentially for law enforcement.

Isolate Affected Devices/Systems:

If you have other devices connected to the same network, assume they might also be compromised. Disconnect them all.

If it's a business, follow your Incident Response Plan to contain the breach.

DO NOT Pay the Ransom (for Ransomware):

This only encourages criminals and there's no guarantee you'll get your files back. It also makes you a target for future attacks.

Aftermath & Recovery: Rebuilding Your Digital Security

Once the immediate threat is contained, it's time for methodical recovery.

Change Passwords (Crucially!):

Use another, uncompromised device.

Start with your most critical accounts: Email (especially the one linked to password resets), banking, social media, and any cloud storage.

Change all passwords that might have been compromised, especially if you reuse them.

Ensure MFA is enabled on all these accounts.

Scan and Clean Your Device(s):

Once disconnected from the internet, run a full, deep scan with your updated antivirus/anti-malware software.

Consider using a specialized malware removal tool (many are free to download).

If heavily infected, a factory reset and reinstalling your operating system might be the safest option, then restoring from a clean backup.

Restore Data from Backups:

If you have clean, offline backups, now is the time to restore your files.

Notify Relevant Parties:

Financial Institutions: If banking details or credit card information was exposed, contact your bank and credit card companies immediately to report fraudulent activity and potentially freeze accounts.

Credit Bureaus: Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with credit reporting agencies.

Family/Friends/Colleagues: If your email or social media accounts were compromised, warn your contacts that they might receive suspicious messages from you.

Service Providers: If a specific online service was breached (e.g., an e-commerce site, email provider), contact them.

Law Enforcement (Optional but Recommended): Report the incident to relevant cybercrime units or the national cyber security agency. This helps authorities track threat actors.

For Businesses: This stage involves notifying stakeholders, customers (if PII was exposed, often legally mandated), and potentially regulatory bodies. Engage legal counsel.

Strengthen Your Defenses:

Review and update your security habits. What went wrong?

Improve your password hygiene (longer, more complex, unique, password manager).

Reinforce MFA usage.

Educate yourself and your family/employees on the latest cyber threats.

Consider advanced security solutions if you're a business (e.g., EDR, SIEM).

Test your backups regularly.

A cyberattack is a distressing experience, but it doesn't have to be devastating. By preparing in advance, acting decisively during the event, and executing a methodical recovery plan, you can significantly mitigate the impact and bounce back stronger. Think of this guide not as a list of chores, but as your essential toolkit for navigating the unpredictable digital wilderness. Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and stay safe.

[tiredfoxtf]

(Sexual assault warning, kinda) Wouldn't it be so fucked up for Android Joel to return to the company and have his current physical state thoroughly examined and documented by the label's mechanic. Docm is also there to explain any oddities and make sure his work of art is handled properly.

Joel must be in operation for the examination to be complete. He has to stay awake and is not allowed to speak.

Between getting his thighs and butt squeezed they prod and touch every square of Joel. Every cavity is examined, some a little more... thorough than others. Upon reaching Joel's new private parts, the mechanic lets out a little chuckle. "I thought you were a singer, what is this part for?"

Doc explains it's a simple design choice on his end. It doesn't impede the contractually required work agreed for the music label but allows the robot to be more flexible in terms of areas of expertise. He also implores the mechanic to move on to the next part of the body, the area is sensitive and touching it in an ill prepared environment for such prolonged time causes discomfort to the robot.

Joel looks like he wants to throw up.

THAT WOULD BE SO FUCKED UP. Dark as hell sign me up. ILL. Thinking about how Joel has to manage this later by himself. THE FACT THAT HE STILL DOESN'T GET TO EVEN CRYYYYY. I'm sorry. I am obsessed.

[cobaltsage]

As a fellow security guard, I can attest to all of this. You may think the girl earlier was joking but no. They will hammer home that this is NOT a job to play hero at. Most of the time, you are considered the product and the point is to deter, and never to let the parent company be held liable for something, immediately before teaching you how to handle a terrorist attack, and then usually following it up with how to report things on your company android, except the OS you use will be wildly different from the one they taught so the only thing relevant 90% of the time just straight up isn’t.

———

My average day is coming in, going to my office, asking my boss why now suddenly East doors and West doors are swapped. She says Damn it not again. I’ll have a maintenance guy come in next week. I pull up all the cameras. Four people are in office. Three are facilities. I’ve never seen the fourth before in my life. I ask facilities “ oh yeah that’s just Molly “ with no further elaboration. Molly has a suspended badge that won’t let her through doors. She put in a request for reactivating, apparently, but we just have to let her in because facilities doesn’t want heat for Molly not being able to do her job (idk spreadsheets or something she is not important to this company at all ). We let her in to any room she asks, if facilities doesn’t. We already wrote her a visitors pass, but her badge hasn’t been used since 2020. I have no idea if she was actually disabled, or if she was fired and not properly taken out of the system. She is touching archived physical documents and the door to the room is propped open with a cheap box. She shreds some maybe? Maybe she even pockets some. I have no idea what she isnt allowed to do.

A Maintenance Guy with a visitors pass has the server room propped open and has been left unsupervised by facilities. I’ve not seen them all day. I ask facilities if I should close it and they say no, it’s still being worked on. The UPS guy comes up from the freight elevator and starts making coffee with our coffee machine. “Oh hey, where’s Mark? “ I ask him, used to seeing the same UPS guy every time. He tells me mark is out Sick, and that he’s handling the route today. I give him a polite nod and he has me sign for something that facilities should be signing for. The package is now in my hands. He could have just as easily handed that package to Molly and given her a $1500 laptop. At least this time he actually has a package, and didn’t just come up for only coffee this time.

The maintenance guy accidentally unplugs the Laptop in the server room that says “ load bearing, do not turn off “ by tripping over the power cord and not realizing it unplugged at the adapter. Someone in facilities is holding a $800 monitor in his arms and is swinging it playfully. He’s known for making bad jokes but I can’t hear him from my office so I don’t know what dumb thing he said, I just hope he drops it on his foot. He once had a conversation with me complaining about a legal form he was filling out included X as a gender. On his laptop he has the building schematic out. The facilities manager has forgotten his badge and is wearing a visitors pass. I’m still not entirely sure what the company I work for actually does. I’ve worked here for years and all I really know is that they have some very wealthy clients and do something that involves servers.

The program I use to clear alarms goes down. I message my boss about it and she says ‘ yeah sorry, we’re doing some server maintenance that will have that go on and off. By the way we’re about to do work on the cameras.’ The camera feed goes down. I am effectively doing nothing except for some occasional tours for the rest of the day as I have no camera feed nor alarms to check.

Ever since I got a job as a security guard I can’t take heist movies seriously anymore.

[bajitaka]

Crickex Nepal App – Enjoy Seamless Winnings Daily

Crickex Nepal might be the answer for anyone in Nepal who loves cricket and wishes to bet online. We’ll guide you through the main features, available bonuses, and payment methods on the Crickex Nepal app. Due to the daily jumping bonus of up to 888 INR, Crickex Nepal is a great place to start your online betting journey at this time.

Crickex Nepal is a Gambling and Sports Betting Platform.

The platform of Crickex Nepal is licensed and governed under the laws of Crickex, which began working in online betting in 2017.

Many people in South Asia know Crickex as a trustworthy platform with extensive customer support.

This platform has been set up for users from Nepal, letting them deposit and withdraw in Nepalese Rupees (NPR). The service

integrates with ConnectIPS and local bank transfers, which makes the process convenient for users in Nepal.

You can choose your favorite, which is either cricket, football, tennis, basketball, slots, or live casino games, all at Crickex Nepal.

Daily, those on the platform get a bonus of 8.88%, as much as NPR 888, which is good for any game after just a 1x wager requirement.

How to Join Crickex Nepal

Opening an account on Crickex Nepal is very quick and only takes a few moments.

Go to the official site crickex.com or install the Crickex app for Nepal.

At the top right, click on the “Register” button.

Include your name, email, phone number, a password, and the currency (Nepali Rupee — NPR) when completing the form.

Select “I understand and agree” after reading the terms.

Go to the “Register” button to finish your registration.

Right after registration, you can start checking out what kinds of bets you can make.

Account Verification

You must verify your account before you can use Crickex Nepal’s features related to deposits, withdrawals, and bonuses.

The process exists to keep things safe and prevent scams from happening.

You have to provide the following:

A document such as a passport, national ID, or driving license with your name, date of birth, and photo on it.

Recent documents, like your latest utility bill or bank statement, with your name and address on them.

Uploads can be made from the “Verification” area of “My Account,” or you can email a copy to support@crickex.com or use

live chat to submit your documents. Most verification processes will have a waiting period of no more than 12 hours.

Ways to Pay for NPR

Crickex allows fast and secure banking for Nepalese customers.

You can move funds to and from your linked bank account with ConnectIPS. You pay no transaction fees.

Transferring with a Local Bank takes only 24 hours. Select this option on the app or web platform and then use the given

bank information and steps.

Crickex Offers Mobile Apps & Games

Crickex works on both Android and iOS mobile platforms. It is easy to move around with its friendly interface that allows you to

Use all the features simply by tapping.

You can:

Bet on sports and different kinds of games.

Stream the games as they happen.

Take part in live betting.

Go to the live chat option to connect with customer service.

Players on Crickex Nepal commonly try out the following popular games and sports:

Cricket

Football

Tennis

Basketball

Live Casino

Slots

Lottery

Running Promotions

Crickex Nepal provides many rewards to maintain user interest.

Earning incentive on Refills: Daily, you can increase your money by as much as 8.88% up to NPR 888 using the deposit

feature. Existing and new players can access the bonus, which only requires a low 1x playthrough.

Refer a Friend: You receive रु.600 for every new user who signs up and deposits money with your link. Referrals can

continue indefinitely.

Cashback: If you lose money in an account, you can get up to 5% of it back each week. Every Monday, you will receive

your bonus, and there is one time a total bonus amount required for wagering.

Betting Markets

Crickex Nepal allows players to bet on many events and sports from around the world. There are options for players who like

local games as well as those who enjoy international tournaments.

A lot of people bet on common sports categories.

Cricket

Football

Tennis

Basketball

Final Verdict

Crickex Nepal is known as one of the leading betting sites made specifically for users from Nepal. With a fine choice of sports and casino games, appealing daily bonuses, simple registration and payment methods adapted to local customers, it gives a smooth and enjoyable betting experience.

On the mobile app, users can place live bets, check live streams, and handle their accounts anywhere. Crickex Nepal is a good place to look if you want to bet on cricket and other sports.

[fromdevcom]

When you’re traveling, technology can be your biggest help getting where you need to go, finding how to get there, and maintaining your lifestyle while away from home. Anyone who has traveled before knows it can go one of two ways: it’s either a complete catastrophe, or you have an amazing time. Of course, we’re all hoping for the latter! Since technology can be such a big help for your travels, I’ve compiled a list of 10 must-have apps and gadgets for traveling, in hopes that these tips will help make your trip a great one. TripIt Travel Organizer TripIt allows you to organize all of your travel plans in one place. Whether you use their app or their website, you can add and edit your plans manually, sync them with your calender, store all of your travel documents, and selectively share your plans with others. If you use Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook.com as your email provider, your travel confirmations will be automatically sent to TripIt for easy upload into their database, assuring that the app will always have your information on hand. For $4.09 per month, you can sign up for TripIt Pro, which will allow you to do the following: receive real-time flight alerts, locate alternate flights, track your reward program points, receive fare refund notifications, and even find out when a better seat is available for your flight. If subscription services aren’t your thing and you’re more interested in trying before you buy, you can still take advantage of TripIt Pro with a 30-day, free trial. Kensington ClickSafe Keyed Laptop Lock (By: Kensington ) If you’re one to visit coffee shops and the like with your laptop by your side, it may be a good idea to pick up a Kensington ClickSafe Keyed Laptop Lock for your trip. Similar to a bike lock, the Kensington ClickSafe Keyed Laptop Lock will protect your computer when you need to step away for a moment. Compatible with 99% of laptops, this laptop lock retails for $44.99, though you can sometimes find it on sale at websites like Amazon.com or Newegg.com. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter (By: LifeStraw ) LifeStraw is an award-winning portable water filtration straw, which filters out bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. With LifeStraw, you’ll be able to safely drink water no matter your location. As long as there’s a body of water nearby, you’re good. Durable, lightweight, and battery free, LifeStraw retails for $19.95 and can filter up to 264 gallons of water. This straw doesn’t just clean your water; with every purchase of Lifestraw, you’re sharing clean water with school children in developing countries. Each LifeStraw product you purchase will give one school child safe water for an entire school year. ExpressVPN Since there’s almost no way to avoid using public Wi-Fi while traveling, it’s a good idea to install a Virtual Private Network, or VPN, on all of your devices before heading out. A VPN will keep your devices protected from malware and hackers by allowing you to encrypt your internet traffic and hide your IP address. You’ll also be able to unblock websites that are commonly blocked based on your geographical location. ExpressVPN is available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, and costs as little as $8.32 per month. It’s also backed by a 30-day, money-back guarantee and offers unlimited bandwith and 24/7 customer support. If you’re not sure whether ExpressVPN will suit your needs, review this extensive list of features available. Universal AC Travel Adapter If you’re traveling out of the country, you are definitely going to need a universal AC travel adapter. There are a handful to choose from, but they all do just about the same thing—let you plug your electronics into outlets not native to your home country. This is a must-have travel accessory that many forget about until they are already at their travel destination, without the ability to charge their phone, laptop, etc. Don’t wait until the last minute to pick one of these up because they are not easily found in stores! Deluxe Roadside Assistant

Going for a road trip instead of taking a flight? Well then you might want to bring this guy along. The Deluxe Roadside Assistant is a $179.95 gadget that can save the day; it can jump start your car’s battery, inflate your tires, power your devices, and even work as a radio or speaker for your MP3 player or smartphone. Weighing less than 18 lbs. and toting a built-in emergency light, this device can easily be recharged through an AC socket or your lighter socket in your car, making it an absolute must-have. Yelp Of course you’re going to need to eat on your trip, and although the locations of fast food restaurants are usually apparent, eating fast food every day is probably a bad idea. With Yelp’s app, you can find the locations of local businesses, whether it be a restaurant or not. Besides finding the locations, you’ll also be able to check reviews, view photos of the establishments, check their hours of operation, get directions, and more. Yelp especially makes it easy for you to stave off hunger because you’re able to book reservations to restaurants and even order take-out or delivery on the app or website. Uber If you’re looking for a chauffeur, Uber is the app for you. Uber is available in 57 countries and brings transportation to you whether you’re looking for a fancy ride or a more casual one. A taxi without the whistles, Uber will get you to where you need to be, without having to stand roadside flailing your arms around or learning how to whistle. One tap of the app, and your ride is on its way. You can also request a quote via the app and paying through the app is a requirement, making it a more secure choice than a typical taxi service. Skype Many are already familiar with this one. Skype allows you to call other users for free, and for a small fee, you’re even able to call non-Skype users. Compared to most cellphone plans, this is a much more affordable option to keep in touch with your friends and family internationally. Whether you’re using it on your smartphone or your laptop, Skype offers video chatting, voice calls, and messaging all in one place. Nokia Treasure Tag Mini Nokia Treasure Tag Mini is an app and gadget combo that keeps track of your belongings. For as little as $29.98, every item you tag will be displayed in-app on a map, and if you happen to forget your tagged item, you’ll receive a notification on your phone to alert you as you’re leaving. Happy Traveling With these 10 must-have apps and gadgets, your travels should be nothing but happy. Staying organized, easily locating restaurants and transportation, keeping your belongings in sight, having your devices secured, and preventing mishaps should make your trip much smoother. Whether you happen to be traveling for business or leisure, these gizmos are sure to make your time spent away from home feel much more like a vacation!

[apostisign]

Say Goodbye to Limits with ApostiSign’s Unlimited Digital Signature App

In today’s fast-paced digital world, having the ability to sign documents quickly and securely is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a business professional, freelancer, legal expert, or student, digital signatures are essential for staying efficient and organized.

But here’s the problem: most digital signature apps restrict the number of documents you can sign — unless you pay more.

That ends now.

Meet ApostiSign – The App That Offers Truly Unlimited Digital Signatures

ApostiSign is a powerful mobile application designed to make digital signing effortless, without limits. No subscription tricks. No usage caps. Just seamless, unlimited digital signatures, right from your Android device.

🔐 Why ApostiSign?

Unlimited Digital Signatures – Sign as many documents as you want, anytime.

100% Legal & Secure – ApostiSign complies with global e-signature laws (like ESIGN & eIDAS), ensuring every signature is legally binding and encrypted.

User-Friendly Interface – Sign documents in just a few taps. No learning curve.

Request Signatures from Others – Share and collect digital signatures from clients or colleagues.

Document Management – Store, organize, and retrieve your signed documents in one place.

Multi-Device Sync – Start on one device, finish on another — your documents stay in sync.

Perfect for Every Professional

Whether you're handling contracts, agreements, reports, or forms, ApostiSign’s unlimited digital signature feature empowers:

Small business owners & entrepreneurs

HR & legal departments

Consultants, freelancers & remote workers

Teachers, students & educational institutions

How to Use ApostiSign

Download the app from the Google Play Store.

Upload or scan your document directly from your phone.

Add your digital signature or request signatures from others.

Save, share, and manage all your signed files with ease.

Go Paperless. Go Limitless.

With ApostiSign, you no longer have to worry about running out of credits, hitting monthly limits, or getting locked out of basic features. It’s the most straightforward, cost-effective way to enjoy unlimited digital signatures — all from the palm of your hand.

Ready to experience it?

👉 Download ApostiSign Now and unlock unlimited digital signing power today.