#nut and bolt company

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Kickstarting a book to end enshittification, because Amazon will not carry it

My next book is The Internet Con: How to Seize the Means of Computation: it’s a Big Tech disassembly manual that explains how to disenshittify the web and bring back the old good internet. The hardcover comes from Verso on Sept 5, but the audiobook comes from me — because Amazon refuses to sell my audio:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/doctorow/the-internet-con-how-to-seize-the-means-of-computation

Amazon owns Audible, the monopoly audiobook platform that controls >90% of the audio market. They require mandatory DRM for every book sold, locking those books forever to Amazon’s monopoly platform. If you break up with Amazon, you have to throw away your entire audiobook library.

That’s a hell of a lot of leverage to hand to any company, let alone a rapacious monopoly that ran a program targeting small publishers called “Project Gazelle,” where execs were ordered to attack indie publishers “the way a cheetah would pursue a sickly gazelle”:

https://www.businessinsider.com/sadistic-amazon-treated-book-sellers-the-way-a-cheetah-would-pursue-a-sickly-gazelle-2013-10

[Image ID: Journalist and novelist Doctorow (Red Team Blues) details a plan for how to break up Big Tech in this impassioned and perceptive manifesto….Doctorow’s sense of urgency is contagious -Publishers Weekly]

I won’t sell my work with DRM, because DRM is key to the enshittification of the internet. Enshittification is why the old, good internet died and became “five giant websites filled with screenshots of the other four” (h/t Tom Eastman). When a tech company can lock in its users and suppliers, it can drain value from both sides, using DRM and other lock-in gimmicks to keep their business even as they grow ever more miserable on the platform.

Here is how platforms die: first, they are good to their users; then they abuse their users to make things better for their business customers; finally, they abuse those business customers to claw back all the value for themselves. Then, they die:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/01/21/potemkin-ai/#hey-guys

[Image ID: A brilliant barn burner of a book. Cory is one of the sharpest tech critics, and he shows with fierce clarity how our computational future could be otherwise -Kate Crawford, author of The Atlas of AI”]

The Internet Con isn’t just an analysis of where enshittification comes from: it’s a detailed, shovel-ready policy prescription for halting enshittification, throwing it into reverse and bringing back the old, good internet.

How do we do that? With interoperability: the ability to plug new technology into those crapulent, decaying platform. Interop lets you choose which parts of the service you want and block the parts you don’t (think of how an adblocker lets you take the take-it-or-leave “offer” from a website and reply with “How about nah?”):

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2019/07/adblocking-how-about-nah

But interop isn’t just about making platforms less terrible — it’s an explosive charge that demolishes walled gardens. With interop, you can leave a social media service, but keep talking to the people who stay. With interop, you can leave your mobile platform, but bring your apps and media with you to a rival’s service. With interop, you can break up with Amazon, and still keep your audiobooks.

So, if interop is so great, why isn’t it everywhere?

Well, it used to be. Interop is how Microsoft became the dominant operating system:

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2019/06/adversarial-interoperability-reviving-elegant-weapon-more-civilized-age-slay

[Image ID: Nobody gets the internet-both the nuts and bolts that make it hum and the laws that shaped it into the mess it is-quite like Cory, and no one’s better qualified to deliver us a user manual for fixing it. That’s The Internet Con: a rousing, imaginative, and accessible treatise for correcting our curdled online world. If you care about the internet, get ready to dedicate yourself to making interoperability a reality. -Brian Merchant, author of Blood in the Machine]

It’s how Apple saved itself from Microsoft’s vicious campaign to destroy it:

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2019/06/adversarial-interoperability-reviving-elegant-weapon-more-civilized-age-slay

Every tech giant used interop to grow, and then every tech giant promptly turned around and attacked interoperators. Every pirate wants to be an admiral. When Big Tech did it, that was progress; when you do it back to Big Tech, that’s piracy. The tech giants used their monopoly power to make interop without permission illegal, creating a kind of “felony contempt of business model” (h/t Jay Freeman).

The Internet Con describes how this came to pass, but, more importantly, it tells us how to fix it. It lays out how we can combine different kinds of interop requirements (like the EU’s Digital Markets Act and Massachusetts’s Right to Repair law) with protections for reverse-engineering and other guerrilla tactics to create a system that is strong without being brittle, hard to cheat on and easy to enforce.

What’s more, this book explains how to get these policies: what existing legislative, regulatory and judicial powers can be invoked to make them a reality. Because we are living through the Great Enshittification, and crises erupt every ten seconds, and when those crises occur, the “good ideas lying around” can move from the fringes to the center in an eyeblink:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/06/12/only-a-crisis/#lets-gooooo

[Image ID: Thoughtfully written and patiently presented, The Internet Con explains how the promise of a free and open internet was lost to predatory business practices and the rush to commodify every aspect of our lives. An essential read for anyone that wants to understand how we lost control of our digital spaces and infrastructure to Silicon Valley’s tech giants, and how we can start fighting to get it back. -Tim Maughan, author of INFINITE DETAIL]

After all, we’ve known Big Tech was rotten for years, but we had no idea what to do about it. Every time a Big Tech colossus did something ghastly to millions or billions of people, we tried to fix the tech company. There’s no fixing the tech companies. They need to burn. The way to make users safe from Big Tech predators isn’t to make those predators behave better — it’s to evacuate those users:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/07/18/urban-wildlife-interface/#combustible-walled-gardens

I’ve been campaigning for human rights in the digital world for more than 20 years; I’ve been EFF’s European Director, representing the public interest at the EU, the UN, Westminster, Ottawa and DC. This is the subject I’ve devoted my life to, and I live my principles. I won’t let my books be sold with DRM, which means that Audible won’t carry my audiobooks. My agent tells me that this decision has cost me enough money to pay off my mortgage and put my kid through college. That’s a price I’m willing to pay if it means that my books aren’t enshittification bait.

But not selling on Audible has another cost, one that’s more important to me: a lot of readers prefer audiobooks and 9 out of 10 of those readers start and end their searches on Audible. When they don’t find an author there, they assume no audiobook exists, period. It got so bad I put up an audiobook on Amazon — me, reading an essay, explaining how Audible rips off writers and readers. It’s called “Why None of My Audiobooks Are For Sale on Audible”:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/07/25/can-you-hear-me-now/#acx-ripoff

[Image ID: Doctorow has been thinking longer and smarter than anyone else I know about how we create and exchange value in a digital age. -Douglas Rushkoff, author of Present Shock]

To get my audiobooks into readers’ ears, I pre-sell them on Kickstarter. This has been wildly successful, both financially and as a means of getting other prominent authors to break up with Amazon and use crowdfunding to fill the gap. Writers like Brandon Sanderson are doing heroic work, smashing Amazon’s monopoly:

https://www.brandonsanderson.com/guest-editorial-cory-doctorow-is-a-bestselling-author-but-audible-wont-carry-his-audiobooks/

And to be frank, I love audiobooks, too. I swim every day as physio for a chronic pain condition, and I listen to 2–3 books/month on my underwater MP3 player, disappearing into an imaginary world as I scull back and forth in my public pool. I’m able to get those audiobooks on my MP3 player thanks to Libro.fm, a DRM-free store that supports indie booksellers all over the world:

https://blog.libro.fm/a-qa-with-mark-pearson-libro-fm-ceo-and-co-founder/

Producing my own audiobooks has been a dream. Working with Skyboat Media, I’ve gotten narrators like @wilwheaton​, Amber Benson, @neil-gaiman​ and Stefan Rudnicki for my work:

https://craphound.com/shop/

[Image ID: “This book is the instruction manual Big Tech doesn’t want you to read. It deconstructs their crummy products, undemocratic business models, rigged legal regimes, and lies. Crack this book and help build something better. -Astra Taylor, author of Democracy May Not Exist, but We’ll Miss It When Its Gone”]

But for this title, I decided that I would read it myself. After all, I’ve been podcasting since 2006, reading my own work aloud every week or so, even as I traveled the world and gave thousands of speeches about the subject of this book. I was excited (and a little trepedatious) at the prospect, but how could I pass up a chance to work with director Gabrielle de Cuir, who has directed everyone from Anne Hathaway to LeVar Burton to Eric Idle?

Reader, I fucking nailed it. I went back to those daily recordings fully prepared to hate them, but they were good — even great (especially after my engineer John Taylor Williams mastered them). Listen for yourself!

https://archive.org/details/cory_doctorow_internet_con_chapter_01

I hope you’ll consider backing this Kickstarter. If you’ve ever read my free, open access, CC-licensed blog posts and novels, or listened to my podcasts, or come to one of my talks and wished there was a way to say thank you, this is it. These crowdfunders make my DRM-free publishing program viable, even as audiobooks grow more central to a writer’s income and even as a single company takes over nearly the entire audiobook market.

Backers can choose from the DRM-free audiobook, DRM-free ebook (EPUB and MOBI) and a hardcover — including a signed, personalized option, fulfilled through the great LA indie bookstore Book Soup:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/doctorow/the-internet-con-how-to-seize-the-means-of-computation

What’s more, these ebooks and audiobooks are unlike any you’ll get anywhere else because they are sold without any terms of service or license agreements. As has been the case since time immemorial, when you buy these books, they’re yours, and you are allowed to do anything with them that copyright law permits — give them away, lend them to friends, or simply read them with any technology you choose.

As with my previous Kickstarters, backers can get their audiobooks delivered with an app (from libro.fm) or as a folder of MP3s. That helps people who struggle with “sideloading,” a process that Apple and Google have made progressively harder, even as they force audiobook and ebook sellers to hand over a 30% app tax on every dollar they make:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/doctorow/red-team-blues-another-audiobook-that-amazon-wont-sell/posts/3788112

Enshittification is rotting every layer of the tech stack: mobile, payments, hosting, social, delivery, playback. Every tech company is pulling the rug out from under us, using the chokepoints they built between audiences and speakers, artists and fans, to pick all of our pockets.

The Internet Con isn’t just a lament for the internet we lost — it’s a plan to get it back. I hope you’ll get a copy and share it with the people you love, even as the tech platforms choke off your communities to pad their quarterly numbers.

Next weekend (Aug 4-6), I'll be in Austin for Armadillocon, a science fiction convention, where I'm the Guest of Honor:

https://armadillocon.org/d45/

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this thread to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/07/31/seize-the-means-of-computation/#the-internet-con

[Image ID: My forthcoming book 'The Internet Con: How to Seize the Means of Computation' in various editions: Verso hardcover, audiobook displayed on a phone, and ebook displayed on an e-ink reader.]

[alteredphoenix]

Been watching raocow play Banjo-Tooie and a bunch of BK/BT speedruns and it's making me yearn for Banjo-Threeie to be an actual thing.

[roll-fast]

Buy Best Quality High Tensile Bolt | Roll Fast

Discover a wide range of high tensile bolts at Roll-Fast. Our top-quality products ensure superior strength and durability for your industrial needs. Our extensive range of components includes forged and machined components, ensuring high-quality products for all your fastening needs. Trust us for reliable and efficient solutions.

[pastelclovds]

thinking about red riding hood laios with big bad wolf shifter!reader…

cw: forest sex, knotting, male!reader, size difference (reader is 3 ft taller than laios), blood (laios gets scratched a bit sooo), reader and laios are obsessed with each other, cock slut laios, everything’s planned cause laios and reader are FREAKS

your laios looked gorgeous in the outfit you hand picked for him to wear in this… lewdly hot scenario he wanted to act out with you.

you knew how fascinated laios was of you, especially with your abilities to transform into any creature at will. you also knew just how blunt he was when it came to his needs, and you willingly fulfilled every single one of his wishes. no matter how outlandish they were. your laios was a creative, horny nerd.

you were enjoying each other’s company in comfortable silence one day when out of the blue he asked you, “have we ever had sex in the woods before?”

that question made you cough out your water as laios looked up at you with curious eyes that quickly turned dark. ravenous scenarios popping up in his head left and right. you knew that smile of innocence was fake as he asked you if you wanted to “try something”. you didn’t refuse, of course.

and that’s how you ended up here.

naked. in your werewolf form. in the middle of the woods. secluded far away from prying eyes. at midnight where the moon was high and creating light bright enough to make the forest visible. but even if it didn’t, your night vision would’ve helped you.

and even if you didn’t have your vision, you could track laios’ scent from miles away. it smells like a mix of nuts and spices. it’s so addicting, you would die happy if it suffocated you.

your cock is already leaking pre at the sight of his ridiculously short frivolous red skirt barely being able to cover his satin panties. the cape attached to his hood sways as he takes cautious steps over leaves and puddles.

he isn’t carrying kensuke or any other weapon in his basket. just snacks, tissues, and containers of water for after the fun. the fact that he trusts you that much that you’ll protect him makes your heart and cock throb.

when laios purposely steps on a branch, its crunch filling the deafening silence of the forest, it was your signal to make yourself known. your paw makes a loud thump as you step foot from your place behind the tree.

laios trembled in both fear and excitement at the sight of your towering form. the sharp claws on your hands scraping against the bark of the tree, your fluffy chest rising and dropping from your heavy breathing, and tail raised in anticipation.

his eyes drift to the hardened cock hanging between your furry thighs, your balls heavy and ready to be emptied, and your dilated pupils say everything else. hungry. savage. predatory.

show time.

laios turns his heel and bolts away from you. you let out a low growl as you lower your body, place your palms on the ground, and dart after your mate like a wolf chasing its prey. with your increased speed and stamina, laios only ran off ten feet before he was tackled. he gasps when his chest hits the ground.

he’s still as a rock when he feels your claws grip onto his cape. he glances up behind at you in false terror. your razor sharp teeth glinting in the moonlight as you grin devilishly at him.

“what’s a pretty thing like you doing in my woods? don’t you know better than to go inside someone’s home unannounced? naughty boy…~” you said mischievously, you suddenly flip laios on his back, making him squeak in surprise. you could clearly see the raging boner tenting his skirt, a tiny wet spot growing from where his twitching cock spilled pre. he quickly closed his legs to block your view, cheeks blooming in red.

“i believe that rude intruders—” you effortlessly push his legs apart and teared his skirt to shreds, laios cried out in embarrassment as now all he had to cover his privates was his satin panties, “should be punished.”

laios eyes tear up as he pleads, “i-i didn’t know this forest belonged to you. please have mercy!” you laugh cruelly as you lean down to lick his salty tears away. his belly twitches from where your claw rests above his waistband before tearing his panties in two as well. now he’s completely vulnerable beneath your gaze, his cock laying uselessly against his stomach.

“you really are adorable, naively believing you’ll go scott free by saying a simple please.” you flip laios on his chest once again, raising his ass in the air with your palms on his waist, as if he weight nothing. laios grows unbelievably harder. he wishes he had superhuman abilities like you. you were so strong and powerful and cool and hot— GODS he wanted you to take him already. he freezes when he feels your throbbing cock against his ass.

he wanted to be used for all he’s worth, filled to the brim with hot cum, he loved how your knots forced his hole to stretch out in order to pop inside, oh he loved you so so much—

laios sobbed when he felt the tip of your cock prod his well lubed hole, one of your hands left his waist to roughly press against his back so that only his ass was up, obediently presenting to you like a bitch in heat. he felt your labored breaths against the back of his neck as you growled out, “you’re mine, pretty thing.”

laios claws at the dirt below him as he felt you slip inside him inch after glorious inch. he yelped when the head of your cock nuzzled right against his prostate. you knew laios was ready to start, so you didn’t bother with waiting to begin.

you started with a quick but rough pace that left laios moaning helplessly at the great pleasure you gave him. pulling out a few inches before slamming into your mates tight hole, balls slapping wetly against laios’ ass as pre drips from his cock and makes a puddle of whiteish liquid on the dirt. without warning, laios cums. his body halting abruptly as his climax washes over his body, his eyes roll back when you don’t cease your thrust. overstimulation prodding at his nerves like the head of your cock hitting his prostate at every thrust.

you pull your head back to listen for anyone nearby, thankfully you don’t. probably because the only thing your senses can focus on is laios. your fingers brushing his hair, your nose overwhelmed with the smell of sex and sweat, laios loud moans and whimpers filling the silence of the forest, your eyes hyper focused on the sight of your pelvis lewdly slapping against his ass. nobody else mattered at that moment but him. your gorgeous laios.

you groan when laios tightened around you, your pace faltering as you felt your belly grow hot and your knot thickening at the base of your cock. laios’ toes curl when he feels your knot catch on the rim of his asshole, a pure euphoric smile overtaking his features as pleasured tears fill his eyes.

“i’m close, i’m gonna fill you up. would’cha like that, pretty thing?” you managed to ask, laios frantically nods his head in a ‘yes’ motion as he grinds against your growing knot. “yes yes, please do it! i-i’m gonna—” white pleasure crashes into him again just as your knot pops past his abused rim, locking you inside him as ropes of warm cum fill him until he felt full and hot. Laios’ legs give up holding his weight as he laid weightlessly on the ground, your palms are the only reason why his ass is in the air. your balls clench for the last time, finally releasing all you had into him before going flaccid.

laios whines when you attempt to pull out, streams of your cum leaking out of him. “nooo, stay inside. you feel so warm, so good�� hah-” laios pleads, desperately grinding against the base of your cock, trying to find your knot to plug him up again. you chuckle under your breath, you should’ve known one round wouldn’t be enough to satisfy your mate.

laios whimpers when he feels your cock slowly harden inside his loose hole.

a/n: I’M BAAAAACK ⁉️ hope you enjoyed :)

[redhoodforreal]

Some times bruce just buy company for his children, like a tutu+balletto shoes production just to re-name it "Cass", or the pet shop ti mach Damian's standard and so on

headcanon that bruce gets in the habit of occasionally buying random ass small companies with zero pattern or connection so that when he needs to buy a company for batman reasons it doesn’t stand out and this has lead to him owning some real weird businesses

[mbbmz]

Can’t look away from you!

Shinichiro x reader

I swear I have so many drafts for y’all requests but I’m too lazy to finish them T-T (sorry if I made any spelling mistakes, English isn’t my first language!)

Warnings : semi public sex, oral sex (m receiving), porn without plot

He was trying, really, really hard to focus. But it seemed like he had been tightening the same damn bolt for the past ten minutes. Why, oh why did he think it would be a good idea to take his girlfriend to his shop? His girlfriend who has been so clingy and affectionate since early in the morning, so much he couldn’t help but ask her to keep him company.

Oh was he regretting this decision.

You were looking at him with those eyes. Those you had when you wanted something. And he knew exactly what.

But he couldn’t give in now. He was supposed to be working. Beside, anyone could come in at any moment! His friends, his brother, who all chose his shop as their hangout spot, or even any customer!

In the span of ten minutes, you went from leaning against a wall, to sitting next to him, to sitting on his lap. He was hard, and you knew it. You were just playing with him at this point, waiting for him to break, to lose the battle against his morals and his decency.

And there was a limit to what a man could take, and you made him reach that limit when you laid down, resting your cheek on his thigh.

His resolve crumbled, leaning back as he let out a loud sigh.

- "Fuck… come here, babe…"

You smiled in victory, watching him unbuckle his belt. He looked around one last time, pressing his lips in a thin line, before taking out his semi-hard cock.

You smiled, immediately wrapping your hand around him in a firm grip. As much as you wanted to savor it, even you knew that it had to be done quick.

You looked up at him, noticing he was still looking around nervously, as if someone might magically appear into the shop. Your free hand found its way to his chin, gripping it so he would look at you instead. He let out a silent gasp at the sight, that devious smile stretching your face as you started pumping his shaft in a tantalizingly slow movement.

- "Eyes on me, love."

You muttered sultrily, giving his blushing tip a slow, sensual lick. God, he was so weak for you. You swore you could feel him twitch from the sight.

His free hand rested on top of your head, fiddling with a strand as if he was fighting the urge to just shove you down his length, while the other was on the floor, trying to support his weight so he could lean back even more, leaving you space.

You wasted no time putting both of your hands to work, pumping him while your tongue was brushing against his tip hastily.

His grip on your hair tightened, his breath shaky and his messy black hair sticking to his forehead from the sweat. This was such a beautiful sight for you, which only encouraged you to pick up with the pace.

- "F-Fuck… just like that baby…"

He said, his voice stifled and shaky in reaction to your lips wrapping around his length. He wanted to keep looking around, looking for eventual unexpected guests, but he couldn’t tear his eyes away from you and your bobbing head.

Fuck, it had to be one of the most erotic sights ever. Your lips stretched around his dick, trying to adjust to his size while tears were starting to prickle at the corners of your eyes. Oh fuck, he might just nut right now-

He didn’t even have the time to give you a warning before he shot his load deep down your throat, making you cough, quickly pulling away as you made him ride his orgasm with your fist.

He stared at you, his gaze apologetic yet lustful as he looked at you, cheeks flushed probably from the performance you put up a few seconds ago.

You glared at him, pushing his shoulder lightly, a slight pout on your face. He chuckled, sheepishly scratching the back of his neck as he sat up straighter.

- "Sorry baby… sometimes you’re just too damn hot, I can’t hold back…"

He caressed the top of your head, his other hand putting his softening cock back in his pants. He helped you sit up, scooting you over him. He looked around one last time, before looking back at you.

- "Spread those pretty legs f’me, time to return the favor…"

[nightisawkward]

"Another challenger… it has been ages. Perhaps you have forgotten how this game is played. Allow me to remind you."

Happy halloween fellas!!! Hermitcraft/Life SMP inscryption AU ft. Boatem gang I cooked up awhile ago but never got around to posting B-) Wild life smp has reminded me how mentally ill I am about putting these Guys in Situations so here I am

Mild to major inscryption spoilers under the cut!

For those familiar with the game, the general roles are:

Luke Carter - "Challenger"/Grian

In this AU Grian is still a trading card-based youtuber who's recording all this nonsense going down real time as in canon, but has closer ties to the GameFuna company equivalent, named "WatcherCorp". His old college roommate/best mate Jimmy went to work for them, but mysteriously passed away in a fire at their headquarters. He found the Inscryption cards in Jimmy's leftover personal belongings a few years after his death, and decided that the best way to honor him would be to make a video featuring the project he put his heart and soul into... in more ways than one.

Key difference from canon Inscryption: Grian's mind is sucked into the game of Inscryption whenever he is playing. He is able to enter and leave the game at will, but he doesn't realize this until he first dies to Leshy/Pearl and ejects himself unconsciously out of fear of dying. The only reason he realizes he isn't hallucinating is because his camcorder footage proves he actually enters the game. He obtains the "Watcher's Eye" during Act 1, which he keeps for all future acts and allows him to see things he shouldn't see as a Challenger.

P03 - "Scarred Stoat"/Scar

Despite being the one who convinces Grian and the other Scrybes to stand up against Pearl, no one seems eager to spend any more time with the conniving conman than absolutely necessary. This may have something to do with Scar's history of backstabbing and cheating both Scybes and Challengers whenever it benefits him most. Which makes it rather unfortunate that Grian is must spend time with Scar in order to gather as much information as possible.

In the beginning, Scar and Grian do not get along in the slightest. Grian finds Scar's attitude too "fake", while Scar finds Grian's "cowardice" to be irritating. At some point, the two go from passive-aggressive fighting, to a grudging truce, to more friendly, lighthearted banter. Neither person seems to trust the other, but it doesn't seem to stop the two from being ✨saddled with unnecessary feelings✨. Scar's Act 3 world is much like Leshy's Act 1 world, with much more emphasis put on environmental storytelling and general Vibes than actual gameplay. Even if his game is a smokescreen for his true goal of Ascension, he feels strangely obligated to give Grian his best shot.

Scar in his proper Scrybe form appears more steampunk than canon P03. Think of a Grumbot with Scar's boatem base aesthetic and tons of missing nuts and bolts. P03's bastardous tendencies+ Scar's steampunk base made this role perfect for him.

Magnificus - "Horned Wolf"/Impulse

Impulse is a talented artist and an even more talented programmer. His future sight stems from his literal sight: His eyes are able to see read the code veil behind Inscryption, allowing him to predict likely futures based on what code is running. He often laments his status as an NPC, claiming that if he were given administrative privileges and the actual ability to modify source code he would have been able to escape Inscryption long ago.

He is rather absent in Act 2, focusing on finishing his "artwork" as soon as possible. He uses his brush to create a menagerie magical creatures with strange abilities in hopes that using one in battle might trigger a unfixable bug, allowing him to rip a hole through the source code. It is unclear whether he was able to accomplish his goal before Act 3 roles around, but it seems like Scar's method of Ascension seems awfully similar to Impulse's... perhaps a sneaky spy was able to steal Impulse's information?

As a proper Scrybe, he resembles a walking mop or a yak with overgrown fur. Most of his features are indistinguishable, save for his small horns and his glowing goat eyes.

Lemora - "Distinguished Stinkbug"/Mumbo

Mumbo is by far the most easygoing Scrybe in the cast. While he would greatly prefer an eternal slumber over yet another temporary ceasefire amongst the Scrybes, he is willing to work with the others in Act 1 simply because he finds his stinkbug form too uncomfortable to sleep in. Mumbo's goal is simple: to delete the game of Inscryption, and therefore himself, and finally rest. However, finds the constant power struggles in the world of Inscryption rather tiring and simply can't be bothered to make a grab for power himself to achieve this goal. This hasn't stopped him from asking Grian to destroy floppy disk of Inscryption. Unfortunately for him, the temptation of the o̷l̵d̷ ̶d̸a̶t̷ [REDACTED] mysteries within Inscryption are simply too powerful for Grian to resist.

As a proper Scrybe, he looks almost exactly like Mumbo's minecraft skin: A pale, mustached man with blood red eyes who resembles a vampire. Mumbo denies all vampire allegations. While he is the most "normal" looking Scrybe, Grian would still hesitate to call him "human" ...there's just something slightly off about his appearance that sets him on edge.

Leshy - "Game Master"/Pearl

Pearl is an unforgiving gamemaster that puts more emphasis on providing the player a challenge than her canon counterpart. After her self-proclaimed "tutorial", there is no more handholding and she gives Grian an absolute hellish time. Grian is only able to get a slight edge when he discovers all of the Scrybes, who provide him with stategy help to even the playing field. It is unclear whether Pearl actually enjoys running her Act 1 game or not: she seems to derive an animalistic pleasure from defeating Grian, but there are times where she seems tired and fed up with the endless gameplay loop and intentionally throws during key fights. She switches between manic and depressed at the drop of a hat.

During Act 2, she barely even tries to give Grian a challenge, allowing him to progress straight to her boss fight without any side quests to "get it over with quicker". She seems to hold a deep grudge against Scar for some reason, which is the only thing that motivates her to take action to stop him during Act 3.

Mysteriously, Grian finds a burned and unusable Unicorn card within her Act 1 cabin. Upon discovery, Scar immediately suggests that Grian leave it where he found it. Some things are best left forgotten, after all...

[ariseur]

congrats on 500 followers! for your event could i request putting together ikea furniture with pre-nibelheim sephiroth please? seph doing mundane tasks is such a cute concept to me 😭

thank you!

“. . are you sure it’s supposed to be put together like that?”

you huff, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear as you look back at sephiroth from behind you. you wouldn’t have minded some company from him any other time, but seeing the way his lips curled into a smile as he watched you struggle with the stupid nuts and bolts that wouldn’t fit in their proper locations, the hot sensation of frustration couldn’t help but prick at your ears.

“i’m trying,” you turn back to your project — maybe one that was failing a little bit but nonetheless still a project you wouldn’t give up on.

the size of sephiroth’s shadow grew as he made his way to crouch down next to you, the scent of bergamot and a fresh, woodsy cologne hitting you in the face as you look over to him. watching as he cocked his head, slit pupils darting along the set as he held a curious finger to his lips.

“would you care for me to assist you?” whether it was the close proximity or the way his voice lowered when he assessed the small instructional pamphlet that came with the furniture ( maybe it was a mixture of both ), but you couldn’t help but gaze at him.

truly a rare sight you had been gifted with. sephiroth no longer armor clad with the discomfort of his battles clinging onto him, instead you’re met with a white t-shirt perhaps a size too small as it hugs the firmness of his body. or.. perhaps you’ve just forgotten how strong he really is. it’s a nice change of pace, getting small notes of your body wash when he finally whips his head around to look at you.

he laughs, “let me rephrase,” the way his eyes crinkle with the soft chuckle you unintentionally evoke out of him is satisfying, you’d really like to hear it more often. “do you need me to assist you?” he alters the previous question. the way his eyes follow yours when you try to subtly avert his gaze is intense. he finds it cute, though — he remains still as he awaits your answer.

“i mean. . .” you trail off. you look back at the instructions and back at the screwdriver that lies limp in your palm, the redness of your hand still evident from how hard you were gripping the tool making you wince before you’re met with the cool hands of your beloved wrapping his around yours. his fingers curl around the tool before he uses his other hand to close your hand on his.

you look back up at him. he smiles once more. “i’ll take that as a yes.”

and you must admit, sitting on top of the couch while your boyfriend works at building this unnecessarily difficult desk chair you had been begging to go look at while he still had a day off, wasn’t so bad. you truly were spoiled by him, he thinks, but then again — he wouldn’t have it any other way.

your lips twitch upwards at the small sight of his pink tongue slipping through the corner of his lips in concentration, only darting out to moisten them a bit before they purse back into an assiduous pout.

“it’s not polite to stare, you know,” he mutters. you don’t falter, merely resting your head on your palm.

“i can’t admire the beautiful man before me?”

he lets a huff of amusement escape through his nose, maybe a combination between a scoff at how often you had managed to slip it in the conversation. he shakes his head at you fondly. “i suppose you could,” he mumbles.

you smiled as you tuck a silver strand behind his own ear, watching as he picks up another tool and gives you a half-smile from the corner of his peripheral. yeah, you thought, truly a rare sight you had been gifted with.

𐙚 join my taglist!! ; @snoopicle @ch3rryfiles

𐙚 dottie’s 500 follower event — 🍡 action prompt activity!

𐙚 regular requests are open — august second, 2024 [ 9:19 pm ]

[mariacallous]

US Treasury Department and White House officials have repeatedly denied that technologists associated with Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had the ability to rewrite the code of the payment system through which the vast majority of federal spending flows. WIRED reporting shows, however, that at the time these statements were made, a DOGE operative did in fact have write access. Not only that, but sources tell WIRED that at least one note was added to Treasury records indicating that he no longer had write access before senior IT staff stated it was actually rescinded.

Marko Elez, a 25-year-old DOGE technologist, was recently installed at the Treasury Department as a special government employee. One of a number of young men identified by WIRED who have little to no government experience but are currently associated with DOGE, Elez previously worked for SpaceX, Musk’s space company, and X, Musk’s social media company. Elez resigned Thursday after The Wall Street Journal inquired about his connections to “a deleted social-media account that advocated for racism and eugenics.”

As WIRED has reported, Elez was granted privileges including the ability to not just read but write code on two of the most sensitive systems in the US government: the Payment Automation Manager (PAM) and Secure Payment System (SPS) at the Bureau of the Fiscal Service (BFS), an agency that according to Treasury records paid out $5.45 trillion in fiscal year 2024. Reporting from Talking Points Memo confirmed that Treasury employees were concerned that Elez had already made “extensive changes” to code within the Treasury system. The payments processed by BFS include federal tax returns, Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income benefits, and veteran’s pay.

Over the last week, the nuts and bolts of DOGE’s access to the Treasury has been at the center of an escalating crisis.

On January 31, David Lebryk, the most senior career civil servant in the Treasury, announced he would retire; he had been placed on administrative leave after refusing to give Musk’s DOGE team access to the federal payment system. The next morning, sources tell WIRED, Elez was granted read and write access to PAM and SPS.

On February 3, Politico reported that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Republican lawmakers in the House Financial Services Committee that Musk and DOGE didn’t have control over key Treasury systems. The same day, The New York Times reported that Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said that DOGE’s access was “read-only.”

The significance of this is that the ability to alter the code on these systems would in theory give a DOGE technologist—and, by extension, Musk, President Donald Trump, or other actors—the capability to, among other things, illegally cut off Congressionally authorized payments to specific individuals or entities. (CNN reported on Thursday that Musk associates had demanded that Treasury pause authorized payments to USAID, precipitating Lebryk’s resignation.)

On February 4, WIRED reported that Elez did, in fact, have admin access to PAM and SPS. Talking Points Memo reported later that day that Elez had “made extensive changes to the code base for these critical payment systems.” In a letter that same day that did not mention Musk or DOGE, Treasury official Jonathan Blum wrote to Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon, “Currently, Treasury staff members working with Tom Krause, a Treasury employee, will have read-only to the coded data of the Fiscal Service’s payment systems.” (Krause is the top DOGE operative at Treasury and CEO of Cloud Software Group.) The letter did not say what kind of access the staff members actually had.

Sources tell WIRED that by afternoon of the next day, February 5, Elez’s access had been changed to “read-only” from both read and code-writing privileges.

That same day, a federal judge granted an order to temporarily restrict DOGE staffers from accessing and changing Treasury payment system information, following a lawsuit alleging the Treasury Department provided “Elon Musk or other individuals associated with DOGE” with access to the payment systems, and that this access violated federal privacy laws. The order specifically provided a carve-out for two individuals: Krause and Elez. At a court hearing later that day, Department of Justice lawyer Bradley Humphreys asserted that the order said their access would be “read-only.”

“It’s a distinction without a difference,” a source told WIRED. Referring specifically to the PAM, through which $4.7 trillion flowed in fiscal year 2024, they said Elez should not have had “access to this almost $5 trillion payment flow, even if it’s ‘read-only.’ None of this should be happening.”

The Treasury Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Elez did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The White House and Musk did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

“People will be held accountable for the crimes they’re committing in this coup attempt,” Wyden tells WIRED. “I’m not letting up on my investigation of what these Musk hatchet men are up to.”

[fanfic-obsessed]

Hi! I wanted to try asking a Talk Shop Tuesday thing but unfortunately I cannot find the freaking post (trying to find things I know exist on tumblr sometimes drives me nuts) so I am throwing an 'elaboration on an au' query out there.

What do the 212th and possibly the other troopers think about Edlritch-Horror-Wrapped-in-a-Disney-Princess Obi-Wan? Aside from dedicating a cult to him just like. That's a really fun au so what do you think was their reaction to him?

I know the frustration of tying to search for something on this site. IF you happen to find the post, send it along.

Back to the Eldritch in a Disny Princess Obi Wan.

So it is important to remember that, for all that Mace Windu called it, the 212th cult was not deliberate, nor did they realize they were forming a cult until well after the fact. In fact, it was not until after the war, when a reporter brought up the possibility of having their religion recognized that their devotion to Obi Wan is religious (among other things).

From the first moment Obi Wan met the 212th, he has radiated a protective energy about the clones. This is an intense feeling for those who encounter it. The 212th, Ghost Company in particular, quickly acclimates to the feeling, even beginning to crave it. The 501st, as battalion next most frequently in contact with Obi Wan,  do not notice as much, but the other battalions say that going into battle with Obi Wan is a bit off putting, akin to having a heavy blanket being wrapped around their minds (no one is quite sure how to describe it).   

Obi Wan does change the people he loves on a fundamental level, after a certain level of exposure is reached. It is utterly unconscious on his part. The 212th hit that level of exposure about six months into the war.  It’s subtle, though everyone noticed that the casualty rate of the 212th, already the lowest in the GAR, dropped even further. But the 212th clones do take on aspects of being something Other that only become obvious when they are standing next to thor non 212th brethren. 

Rumors begin to circulate through the GAR, spread primarily by the natborns. That the 212th sacrificed to something for their luck. That they have made some deal. The other clones will vehemently deny their brothers doing anything wrong, but every so often Cody will kick a clankers head clear across the battlefield orr Helix will race to an injured clone an the blaster bolts will seem to pass right through him an the non 212th clones that witness it will glance at each other, uneasy.

The unease lessens and vanishes the more a battalion spends time with the 212th (for the clones and the Jedi at least, the natborn officers tends to get more uneasy the longer they worked with th 212th- strangely enough there tended to be a direct correlation between how badly the officer treated the clones and how hunted they felt around the 212th). 

[foone]

So during a meeting the question came up "is Meccano the same as Erector Sets?" and I had to look it up.

So Meccano started making a constructor set in 1901, in England, where metal strips are connected with other pieces using nuts and bolts. It was an important introduction to mechanical engineering for a lot of kids.

And in 1913, a construction set was launched in the US, called Erector. It similarly involved metal strips that could be connected together with nuts and bolts, and was an important introduction to mechanical engineering for a lot of kids.

So they're not the same, just similar toys in different countries.

Except, in 1990, Meccano purchased the Erector brand, and unified their toys. And both companies, now merged, were purchased by the Canadian toy company Spin Master (creators and owners by PAW Patrol) in 2013. They're still making Meccano in Europe, but Meccano sets in the US are sold as "Erector by Meccano", to tie back into the name brand better known in America.

Anyway, if you want to ask me "are you a boy or a girl?", this is the kind of answer I'd have to give you.

[kybercrystals94]

A Kindle cover I designed for Art of War by Moxibustion (RyuuzaKochou) on Ao3!

I love this fic for so many reasons. The writing is gorgeous, the characterizations fantastic, and the plot golden! It's got everything you could want in a Bad Batch story, honestly...all the hurt, comfort, angst, humor, drama, action, adventure, and brotherhood you could ask for ♥︎

Written from Echo's POV, we follow along as he gets to know each of his new brothers and the surprising gifts each of them have aside from their enhancements.

Below is an excerpt from the prologue if you'd like a small taste of what this wonderful fic has to offer...

Echo had never had any particular talents. Nothing which others hadn’t shown two-fold more than him, at least. The one word that had appeared again and again in his performance reviews was ‘workmanlike’. While others would have been damned by such faint praise, Echo had always treated it like the compliment he’d always felt that it was.  There was no shame in being workmanlike. Workmen were skilled and competent and thorough, quietly putting in all the nuts and bolts in a system that no one ever missed until they weren’t there anymore. Among thousands of troopers who were all so basically the same that individuality was a precious reward and a lofty goal, Echo was one of the rare few that had never wanted to stand out. He’d wanted to do a good job and nothing more. Perhaps it was the company he kept. Fives had been born to stand out. He’d always been so wholly himself, so completely and fiercely certain of everyone’s right to be who they were and not be dictated to about it. Even Echo, who compulsively sought out the safety of structure and hierarchy for the better part of his early life, could not help to be drawn to such a flame.  Fives had always known exactly who Fives was and to hell with everybody else. Echo had just been Echo. He’d gone by the book because he knew he had no specialness to speak of, no individuality like he saw in so many of the others he admired. If he could not be set apart, what else could he do but blend in as hard as he could? He was never made to stand out. He was made to follow those that did for as long as he could. The chances of him surviving the entire war without the ingenuity, the genius, the resourcefulness of his far more talented brethren were low. He never expected to wake up one day and find out that he was, in fact, the last of them. Funny old galaxy, really.

Art of War by Moxibustion (RyuuzaKochou)

[doobnnoob-tf2]

The Mercs go to the park. What are each of them up to?

Scout: he's the first one out of the vehicles, not even waiting for them to completely stop before he's out of his seatbelt and throwing open the door. he starts off attempting to flirt with a few moms there, before he turns his attention to a group of kids playing catch. he spends the rest of the afternoon there teaching them how to properly play baseball

Soldier: no one knows how he did it, someone suspects he stole a bag of peanuts from an old lady. but he's gotten together all of the squirrels in the area and has trained them into being his own, personal army. some are even wearing acorn caps as tiny helmets and they all sit up in trees and pelt every adult, child, and animal with various nuts as they pass by below

Pyro: they immediately bolt for the play equipment before anyone can stop them, which startles quite a few of the parents. however, when a group of older kids enter the park and start to bully some of the younger kids, they're quick to scare them all off. after that, the parents appoint them the park babysitter for the afternoon and they spend the rest of their time playing on the equipment with the kids

Demoman: it's hot outside, so he grabbed his swim trunks and goes right for the water area with all the sprinklers and whatnot. he gets many looks, but no one bothers him after he starts pretend fighting the giant dragon that sprays water out of its mouth from time to time. it's entertaining for the adults and kids. it all comes to an end when after he thinks he's defeated the beast, it blasts him in the back. he has a very dramatic death scene and the kids all go pick flowers to lay on his "corpse"

Heavy: he goes and finds a shady bench to sit at with Medic, both to people watch and to feed the birds. he brings along one of his books as well as a portable music player to enjoy since they wanted to have their own private space without bothering anyone else. eventually, he has to take over feeding the birds solely and ends up covered in them by the time they're due to leave

Engineer: he already knew the park had a cookout area, and brought along things to cook for the team. what he didn't expect to have happen was for everyone else there to start bringing over things they brought as well for him to cook too. often paying him in beer to do so. he doesn't mind at all and enjoys the company it brings. however, there are several husbands and dads that glare at him from afar for showing them up when suddenly no one wants their cooking anymore

Medic: he finds a nice, shady, quiet spot with Heavy to sit and listen to music and chat and feed birds with. what he wasn't expecting however was for there to be a stowaway. not long into feeding the birds, he has a very jealous Archimedes attacking his head for daring to give other birds attention. which quickly turns into him watching Heavy feed the birds while he handfeeds Archimedes on his lap

Sniper: he said his plans to everyone before leaving: he was going to find a spot in the grass and lay down and take a nap. and when he got there, that's just what he did. he found himself a very nice spot, laid down, and dropped his hat on his face to sleep. someone eventually looks over and sees he's missing. no one thinks of it until they hear talks of a man who was currently in the dog park area, covered in dogs and playing with them all while their owners watch on

Spy: he sees the lawn care people leaving as they're pulling in and already knows what's to come. he smells the fresh cut grass the moment Scout opens the door and bails out and he can feel his eyes watering and getting itchy. he has a grass allergy and ends up turning into a miserable, grouchy mess, finding himself a bench far, FAR away from the others to sit at. he sits and complains to himself in as many languages are he can, sneezing and resisting every urge to rub his eyes

[drawnthejayys]

Meet my BLU Team OCs !!

Info/Bios under cut!

Dr. Warin Kölher

• Born in Mannheim, Germany

• Team Leader, some refer to him as "Mother Hen" because of his protective motherly attitude

• Lost his medical degree early because he kept experiencing near death situations around his workplace, they thought it was becoming too dangerous even though nobody else was affected 💀

• Survived hell and back more than once (literally) before becoming a mercenary

• Happy face pin on his hat expresses his emotions somehow?¿

• Not a demon or anything, trust me!!!!!

• Likes crows, wants one as a pet

• Says he has a rare skin condition (is lying)

Jenny Thomas

• Sees Dr. Kölher as a parental figure

• "IF AUTISM DIDN'T EXIST, GOD WOULD NOT HAVE CREATED ME!" /ref /j

• Actually born in Canada, does not know

• Sent to Michigan (in a box) as a baby and grew up there

• Collector of many things (rocks, sticks, nuts n bolts)

• Can be very trigger happy especially on the battlefield

• Dr. Kölher gives her star stickers when he's good, he sticks them in his helmet (is tryin to collect 50 of them 🇺🇲)

• Owns chewelry because she has a biting problem but easily breaks through all of them in less than a week

Mason

• nickname: mason jar

• If Mundy listened to midwest emo (/hj)

• Look, we don't know how they escaped New Zealand when its currently at the bottom of the ocean but we don't ask

• Laid-back but lazy at times, takes a lot of naps

• Smokes more weed than Spy smoking cigarettes /hj

• Dumpster diver

• Their Jarate skills kinda go crazy

• Games with Junior, they love first-person shooters

Spy (alias: Rune)

• Get half filipino'd loser🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

• Backup strategist for when things go to shit but also the last resort for a lot of things unfortunately

• Anxiety ridden, visits the doc often

• Good at stabbing, not much with shooting

• Acknowledges Scout as his son but is a very awkward dad. He's trying at least

• A hopeless romantic and has been looking for a partner since the divorce(tm)

• Smokes but is trying to quit, often been seen with a toothpick instead of a cigarette

• Autistic just like me fr, stims with his butterfly knife

Dallas

• Tough cowboy, doesn't play around

• "Watch your piehole son or imma SLAP YOU SILLY."

• Probably the sanest in the team

• Grumpy-pants who needs a break

• Very "tough love" kind of father figure

• "MY TEAMMATES ARE ALL MORONS!!!!" /ref /j

• Homophobic homosexual (/j)

• Despite his name, he might not even be Texan

• Tolerates Dr. Kölher the most

Dymitry (Mitya)

• Here to do his job, nothing more

• Intimidating just like the OG Heavy

• Fond of animals and small creatures

• Actually quite calm, its hard to piss him off

• He has a soft spot for Jenny and Meeka and buys them snacks on the weekends

• Jenny calls him Mitts!

Junior

• Transmasc bastard

• He'll beat your ass (for fun!)

• Good friends with Sniper, they listen to music and play video games together!

• Knows Spy is his dad and is very nonchalant about it, much to Spy's dismay ("I am your fathe-" "Whatever, don't care, didn't ask")

• Has braces paid for by Spy but has to leave base monthly to go to an actual dentist because Dr. Kölher didn't wanna keep seeing him cry whenever he had to get his braces tightened

•Still has buck teeth :3

Meeka

• Your honour, they're just a little guy

• Hangs around Mitya to keep him company, theyre the best of friends!

• Goes on crazy killing sprees with Jenny during matches

• Ongoing beef/goof-off with the RED Team's Pyro

• Pinkie Pie energy!!

• Dallas is their (adoptive) dad!

Angus

• Superstitious about a lot of things but keeps it to himself

• For some reason is always very warm which is why he's shirtless 90% of the time

• Has some amazing tits ngl

• Will wear a dress to the function and be the hottest one there

• His fav food is burber 🍔

• Loves hard rum and scotch (its important to me that all my demo ocs have a fav alcoholic beverage)

------------------------

That's all of them! I hope you like them :3

[mcginnlawfirm]

Do I need to speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer if I am involved in an accident?

Every sudden screech of tires on the pavement could be the prelude to a life-altering event. Car accidents often leave individuals grappling with not just physical injuries but also the complexity of legal claims. Knowing when to bring a personal injury lawyer into the equation can make a significant difference.

Personal injury claims serve as a gateway to justice for those impacted by others' negligence. It is crucial to grasp the essence of this legal avenue, the stringent timelines that govern it, and the weighty repercussions of leaving this process uninformed. A lawyer's guidance often becomes not just beneficial but necessary.

Your steps after a car accident can improve your financial recovery and overall well-being. This article intends to explore the pivotal moments when the expertise of a personal injury lawyer becomes indispensable and how their adroit navigation through insurance mazes and legal intricacies can tilt the scales in your favor.

At McGinn Law Firm, we've helped countless clients navigate the aftermath of car accidents. We understand the emotional and financial toll these events can take, and we're here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you. Contact Shawn McCann today for a free consultation. We'll assess your case and guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims and the Legal Process

The journey through a personal injury claim can be complex and demanding. These claims are legal disputes that arise when one person suffers harm from an accident or injury, and someone else might be legally responsible. Personal injury law aims to provide a legal pathway for accident victims to receive fair compensation for their losses. Understanding the nuts and bolts of personal injury claims is essential as it impacts numerous aspects—from insurance dealings to court procedures.

Navigating the maze of legal steps can be formidable, especially when coping with the aftermath of an accident. That's where grasping the foundational elements comes into play. This includes knowing how to handle insurance companies, the role of an insurance adjuster, the nuances of property damage and personal injuries, and the significance of securing a fair settlement. An experienced lawyer becomes your guide, interpreting the legal texts, steering the case, and ensuring maximum compensation is sought.

Personal injury law encompasses various situations, from auto accidents to workplace incidents, so each claim requires a tailored approach. By associating with a dedicated personal injury lawyer or accident lawyer, you ensure that your legal rights are upheld and your case is robustly presented, whether in negotiations with an insurance agent or the courtroom.

What is a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim is a legal case you can initiate if you have been physically or psychologically injured due to another person's negligence or intentional conduct. Typical scenarios include auto accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, medical malpractice, and workplace injuries. The aim is not just to restore financial loss but to provide restitution for medical costs, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, and other personal damages.

The Importance of Consulting a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consulting a personal injury lawyer is a pivotal step if you are involved in an accident. An experienced lawyer provides invaluable support and guidance, handling every facet of your claim—from scrutinizing accident reports and medical records to negotiating with insurance companies. They ensure you avoid common pitfalls, secure fair compensation, and represent you against fault parties. Their knowledge of statutory time limits and legal procedures preserves your rights and bolsters your claim.

Overview of the Legal Process for Personal Injury Claims

The legal process for personal injury claims may vary depending on the details of the case but generally follows these steps:

Accident and Injury Occurrence: The process begins when an injury occurs, necessitating documentation like accident reports.

Hiring an Accident Lawyer: You should hire an accident lawyer to navigate the complexities of the claim.

Investigation of the Claim: Your legal team collects evidence, assesses liability, and establishes the extent of the damages.

Filing the Lawsuit: If necessary, your lawyer will file a lawsuit before the deadline set by the statute of limitations.

Discovery Phase: Both parties investigate the other's legal claims and defenses.

Mediation and Negotiation: There's an attempt to settle the case out of court through discussions with an insurance adjuster or opposing legal representatives.

Trial: If a settlement isn't reached, the case may go to trial, where a jury or judge determines the outcome.

Time Limits for Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Time limits, commonly known as statutes of limitations, are critical in personal injury cases. These are the deadlines by which you must start legal action, and they vary by state and the type of claim. Typically, the clock starts ticking at the moment of the accident or the discovery of the injury. Failing to act within this prescribed timeframe can permanently forfeit your right to seek compensation, accentuating the importance of prompt consultation with an experienced car accident or personal injury lawyer.

Assessing Your Case: When to Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you find yourself sorting through the aftermath of an accident, consider professional legal help. Determining whether to consult with a personal injury lawyer can be straightforward, with understanding certain indicators. Factors that could necessitate seeking a lawyer include sustaining significant injuries, facing costly medical bills, experiencing loss of wages due to recovery time, encountering disputes over who is at fault, and dealing with an uncooperative insurance company or presenting an unfair settlement offer. Any of these circumstances suggest that a lawyer's intervention could be crucial in securing the financial compensation and justice you deserve.

When should you consider hospitality consulting a personal injury lawyer?

You should mull over hiring a personal injury lawyer promptly if you’ve endured severe personal injuries requiring medical treatment, rehabilitation, or long-term care. Engage a lawyer if you are uncertain about the fair value of your claim or if multiple parties are involved. Additionally, if an insurance adjuster reaches out to settle quickly, it can be a red flag that you may not be offered a full and fair settlement. Consult a lawyer before signing anything from an insurance company. Furthermore, if the complexities of legal terminology intimidate you or your claim involves a government entity, a lawyer is indispensable for navigating these intricate matters.

Initial steps to take after a car accident

Immediately following a car accident, safety should be your priority. Make sure to:

Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.

Move to a safe location, if possible, without disturbing the accident scene.

Exchange information with the other parties involved, such as contact details and insurance information.

Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.

Gather witness statements and contact information if available.

Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report.

Notify your own insurance company about the incident, regardless of fault.

Gathering evidence for your case

Building a robust personal injury case relies heavily on evidence. Start by preserving photos from the accident scene, such as those of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and your injuries. Keep a detailed account of the incident and any subsequent medical appointments, treatments, and diagnoses. Collect copies of medical records, bills, and receipts related to the accident. If there were witnesses, their statements could be pivotal, so ensure you have them documented. Also, keep records of any time missed from work and how the injury has affected your everyday life.

Evaluating liability and fault parties

Determining liability involves evaluating who was at fault for the incident. It’s about establishing negligence—showing that the responsible party failed to act reasonably, leading to your injuries. Factors such as violating traffic laws, driving under the influence, or failing to maintain safe property conditions can indicate liability. Sometimes, liability could be split among multiple parties, including the accident victim, in comparative negligence jurisdictions. An experienced lawyer can assess the particulars of your case to pinpoint the fault parties.

Calculating damages and potential compensation

Personal injury claims aim to make you whole, to the extent possible, through compensatory damages. These damages include economic losses like medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Sometimes, punitive damages are also awarded to punish particularly egregious behavior.

An experienced lawyer can help calculate these by considering the following:

Current and future medical costs

Rehabilitation expenses

Lost income and reduced earning capacity

Property damage repairs or replacement

Emotional and psychological impacts

The degree to which the injuries affect your lifestyle

Remember, the calculation of damages can be complicated, and insurance companies often strive to minimize these amounts—having a proficient legal team on your side can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation you're entitled to.

Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

When you're embroiled in the aftermath of an accident, the skills and knowledge of an experienced personal injury lawyer are invaluable. The benefits of their expertise are numerous: they understand the legal process, can navigate the labyrinth of insurance claims, and are adept at ensuring you receive fair compensation. A lawyer can offer peace of mind by handling the complexities of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. With their guidance, you can avoid the pitfalls of dealing with insurance adjusters and their tactics designed to minimize your settlement.

The Expertise of a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer brings a wealth of specialized expertise to your case. They are well-versed in personal injury law, knowledgeable about the latest legal precedents, and can effectively interpret accident reports and medical records. Their skill set is crucial when establishing fault, evaluating evidence, and determining the rightful compensation for accident victims. This expertise is especially beneficial in complex cases involving multiple parties or severe personal injuries where the legal team's nuanced understanding of the law can substantially impact the outcome.

Navigating the Complexities of Insurance Claims

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, with their extensive policies and procedures that confound even the most astute individuals. Personal injury lawyers are seasoned in managing insurance claims and can anticipate the maneuvers of insurance agents. They have the strategic insight necessary to present your claim in the most vital possible light, ensuring that all relevant and supportive evidence is considered. A lawyer will meticulously review settlement offers and counter with the appropriate legal arguments to enhance your chances of achieving maximum compensation.

Maximizing Compensation: Importance of an Experienced Lawyer

A personal injury claim aims to secure fair compensation for all your losses, from medical costs to personal hardships. An experienced car accident or personal injury lawyer is fundamental, offering the insight required to calculate a comprehensive claim that encompasses tangible and intangible damages. By leveraging their experience, they can estimate current financial burdens and future implications of your injuries. The lawyer aims for a fair settlement that compensates for the full spectrum of your suffering, including emotional trauma and loss of life enjoyment, thus striving for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Dealing with Insurance Adjusters and Their Tactics

Insurance adjusters have one objective: to settle your claim for as little as possible. They are trained to employ tactics that can lead to accident victims settling for less than they deserve. An experienced lawyer can recognize and challenge these strategies, protecting your rights. They will advise you to communicate with adjusters and can take over those communications if necessary. With a robust legal team, you can confidently navigate the insurance landscape, knowing your case is managed with a strategic and protective approach.

In summary, hiring a personal injury lawyer puts a dedicated advocate on your side—one who understands the intricacies of personal injury claims and can fend off insurance companies' exploitation tactics. Your road to just compensation will be clearer with a seasoned professional ensuring every step is in your favor.

Understanding Insurance Claims and Dealing with Insurance Companies

Navigating the landscape of insurance claims following an accident can be daunting. Understanding the procedures and parties involved is essential for effectively dealing with insurance companies. A typical insurance claim consists of reporting the accident to your insurance company, documenting damages and injuries, and undergoing a review from an insurance adjuster. Insurance companies have intricate protocols designed to minimize their payouts and protect their interests throughout this process. They have a firm grasp of how claims work, enable you to better advocate for your needs, and can prevent you from accepting a less-than-fair settlement.

Step-by-step process of filing an insurance claim

Immediate Notification: Contact your insurance company immediately after the accident to report the incident.

Information Collection: Gather all necessary information from the accident scene, including photos, the other driver's information, and contact information for any witnesses.

Claim Submission: Fill out the required claims forms provided by your insurance agent or through the insurer's website or app.

Documentation: Compile comprehensive documentation, such as medical records, repair estimates, and a detailed account of the accident and resulting damages.

Adjustment: An insurance adjuster will evaluate the claim by reviewing the documentation and possibly inspecting the accident site and damage.

Review: Undergo the insurance company's review of the accident and wait to determine fault and settlement offer.

Negotiation: If the proposed settlement seems insufficient, negotiate—a personal injury lawyer can be especially beneficial here.

Resolution: Once a settlement is agreed upon, the insurance company will issue a payment to cover your damages.

Common challenges faced during insurance claim negotiations

Negotiating an insurance claim can present several obstacles that may impact the success of your claim:

Low Settlement Offers: Adjusters often start with lowball offers, hoping claimants will accept less compensation than deserved.

Delayed Responses: Insurance companies may intentionally slow the process by delaying responses, increasing pressure on claimants to settle quickly.

Inadequate Assessments: Adjusters might need to pay more attention to the cost of repairs or medical treatments, leading to insufficient offers.

Disputes over Fault: Insurance companies might contest liability, making it more difficult to secure an admission of fault and fair compensation.

Pre-existing Conditions: Insurers can argue that your injuries are due to pre-existing conditions, not the accident, thus reducing the settlement amount.

Essential factors to consider when dealing with insurance companies

When interacting with insurance companies, keep in mind the following:

Documentation: Always keep thorough records of all correspondence, medical treatment, and expenses related to the accident.

Statements: Be careful when providing statements to adjusters, as they can be used to challenge your claim.

Settlement Acceptance: Accepting a settlement means relinquishing the right to pursue additional compensation later.

Legal Representation: Consider hiring a personal injury lawyer to ensure you’re not being taken advantage of, particularly if your injury is severe.

Timelines: Be aware of the time limit to file an insurance claim or lawsuit, which can vary depending on state laws and policy terms.

Engaging with insurance companies after an accident requires vigilance and knowledge. If you are involved in an accident, speaking with a personal injury lawyer early can help protect your rights and guide you toward a fair outcome.

The Role of Medical Records and Expenses in Personal Injury Lawsuits

Navigating a personal injury lawsuit entails proving fault and quantifying the impact of your injuries in financial terms. Medical records and expenses play a critical role in personal injury claims, serving as tangible evidence that outlines the extent of injuries, the treatments received, and the cost of those treatments. These records are central to establishing the cause-and-effect relationship between the accident, the injuries sustained, and the financial burden incurred. Accurate and comprehensive documentation forms the backbone of a personal injury lawsuit, ensuring that all medical interventions and associated costs are accounted for and can be appropriately compensated.

Gathering and organizing medical records

It's essential to meticulously gather and organize all medical records of your injury following an accident. This includes emergency room visits, doctor's appointments, diagnostic tests, physical therapy sessions, prescriptions, and other relevant medical interventions. Organized records make it easier for your legal team to paint a complete picture of your injuries and recovery process. You should aim to obtain copies of the following:

Medical reports and evaluations

Hospital admission and discharge summaries

Test results (X-rays, MRIs, blood tests, etc.)

Treatment plans

Invoices and receipts

Keeping a structured record also implies chronicling the progression of your treatment, which can demonstrate the timeline and severity of your recovery. A simple yet efficient way to categorize these documents could include organizing them by date, type of document, or care provider.

Proving medical costs and expenses

Proving medical costs and expenses is vital in securing fair compensation. The goal is to have a detailed breakdown of all the costs incurred due to the injury. This includes:

Direct medical costs include hospital bills, doctor's fees, medication costs, physical therapy expenses, and the cost of any medical equipment needed.

Indirect costs: travel expenses to and from medical appointments, over-the-counter supplies, and any home care or modification costs attributable to injury recovery.

Retaining all receipts and invoices is crucial as they are the primary proof of your expenses. Sometimes, medical costs must be anticipated, and expert testimony may be necessary to estimate those expenses.

Importance of maintaining a documented record of injuries

A documented record of injuries can make or break a personal essence lawsuit. It doesn't only support your claim of injury but also counters any arguments from the defense about pre-existing conditions or injury exaggeration. Document everything from the outset of your injury:

Photographs of visible injuries at various stages

Personal journal entries detailing pain levels, mobility issues, and the effect on daily life

Impact on work and personal life, including lost wages and 'loss of enjoyment' experiences due to injuries

The comprehensiveness of these records can substantiate your claim of how the injuries affected your quality of life.

Role of medical experts in personal injury lawsuits

Medical experts often become integral to personal injury lawsuits, especially when complex injuries require professional interpretation or when anticipated future medical care is considered. These experts can:

Attest to the cause of the injuries and affirm the necessity of treatments provided

Assist in the projection of future medical needs and costs

Provide a professional opinion on the impact of injuries on the claimant’s quality of life and ability to work

Such testimonies and documented evidence of medical treatment and expenses strengthen the pursuit of a fair settlement or court-awarded compensation. Ensuring that a well-qualified medical expert is part of your legal team can be invaluable in obtaining maximum compensation for accident victims.

The Importance of Fair Settlements and Fair Compensation

In the aftermath of an accident, facing the pressure of recovery and financial hardships, the quest for a fair settlement and compensation is paramount. A fair settlement implies a resolution where the accident victim receives adequate funds to cover all the losses incurred because of the accident. These losses include direct costs like medical bills and property damage and intangible losses such as emotional distress and loss of enjoyment in life. Receiving fair compensation is not just about rectifying financial constraints; it's also about justice and recognition of the victim's ordeal. It is essential that the agreed sum truly reflects the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the personal injury.

Fair compensation serves multiple purposes: it assists victims in accessing necessary medical care, supports them when they cannot work, and provides a sense of closure that allows for psychological healing. Moreover, it ensures that the negligent or at-fault parties are held accountable for their actions. In the legal landscape, fair settlements are pivotal in maintaining a standard where the consequences of negligence are taken seriously, thus promoting a safer environment for everyone.

When dealing with insurance companies and adjusters, it is essential to remember that their primary goal is to minimize what they pay out in claims. Without proper legal representation, accident victims may be tempted to accept quick settlements that fall short of covering all their damages. A personal injury lawyer or lawyer has the expertise to help navigate these complex negotiations and advocate for maximum compensation, ensuring the victim's rights and needs are at the forefront.

Understanding the concept of fair settlement

A fair settlement should comprehensively address the victim's damages while factoring in their injuries' current and future implications. It's an agreement reached between the involved parties, usually without the need to go to trial. It can be beneficial as it typically entails a quicker resolution and a more cost-effective outcome for the victim. For a settlement to be deemed fair, it should:

Fully compensate for medical expenses and related costs.

Account for lost wages or loss of earning capacity.

Include compensation for pain and suffering as well as emotional distress.

Consider any property damage incurred during the accident.

Address long-term implications, such as ongoing care or permanent disabilities.

Understanding the full scope of what constitutes a fair settlement is critical, and often, this is where the expertise of an experienced lawyer becomes invaluable. They can help identify all the potential areas of compensation that might be overlooked by an insurance adjuster whose interests might not align with those of the victim.

Factors to consider when negotiating a fair compensation

Negotiating fair compensation is a nuanced process that requires a careful evaluation of several factors:

Assessment of Injuries and Medical Costs:

Severity and type of injuries

Immediate and ongoing medical treatment expenses

Rehabilitation and future medical needs

Work-Related Losses:

Present and future lost earnings

Lost career or educational opportunities

Diminished earning capacity

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and suffering

Emotional distress and mental anguish

Loss of enjoyment of life

Loss of consortium

Contributory Negligence:

Degree of fault assigned to the victim, if any

Legal and Procedural Considerations:

Strength of the evidence

Applicable laws and precedents

Time limits for filing claims

The reputation and skill of the legal team

Quality of Life Impact:

Long-term physical or emotional impact

Necessity for lifestyle adjustments or home modifications

Each factor is crucial in determining what constitutes a fair compensation offer. Accident victims can only hope to achieve the compensation they deserve through thoroughly examining and negotiating these elements. Engaging a personal injury lawyer with a strong track record can greatly assist victims in this complex process and ensure that no factor is left unexamined.

[delopsia]

I usually don’t send in requests cause I don’t want to be a bother but I saw your post about you wanting requests so I was wondering if you have any Rhett Abbott headcanons? Like just in general of what he likes or certain habits he has. I really loved what you wrote about him loving to snack and Bob loving chicken sandwiches lol. You write both Rhett and Bob really well so I’m always interested to hear your takes on either one of them! 💕

aaaa hello lovely! :D I absolutely have some headcanons for ol' Rhett 💃💕I had to limit myself because otherwise, the list would roll right out the damn door.

✧˖° General Rhett Headcanons

Rhett has a hard time sleeping alone. No matter how exhausting the day has been or how long he's been awake when his head hits the pillow at night, nothing happens.

Late-night drives are one of his go-to cures for those sleepless nights. Hell, half of the time, he doesn't even try to get in bed; he just grabs his keys and hits the road. It's hard telling where the road will take him, but he'll be out there until he's either low on gas or the road has finally lulled him into sweet, sweet drowsiness.

On the rare occasion his drives don't work, he takes a blanket and lays on the haystack outside his horse's stall. Company is company, and sometimes a little shut-eye is worth the ache in his neck when he wakes up in the morning.

But the moment his significant other is in the room with him? He's out cold. He's out cold. He can spend an entire night struggling to sleep, only to fall asleep the moment he knows they're in the room.

That being said, it also works if he's not even in bed. One moment he's leaned against the fridge sipping his coffee, then you walk in, and he's sleeping standing up. He will stay like that if you let him.

Royal got Rhett into using tobacco when he was around fourteen, and Cecelia hated it so much that she offered to help Rhett buy the horse he had his heart set on in exchange for him quitting.

Now, he has a nervous habit of taking invisible dip out of his lip. It's the only thing he never broke himself out of doing, primarily because he hardly realizes he's doing it.

Rhett's got a sweet tooth bigger than he is. From sweet tea to just straight-up eating packets of sugar when he can't scavenge anything out of the pantry if it's sweet, he loves it. Royal and Perry give him hell for it, but Rhett drinks his coffee just as sweet as his tea.

He still has most of his childhood toys and stuffed animals. There's a box of toys beneath his bed, and those old, dusty plushies reside on the high shelf of his closet.

When he's drunk, Rhett gets his heart set on things. Sometimes he just wants a particular food; others, he wants a certain object. A rock he found on the floor, that obscurely tiny pen on the end of the table, the keychain he saw in the store two-weeks ago.

Once, he drunkenly wobbled all the way up the stairs and practically crawled under his bed because a conversation had reminded him of those old Power Rangers he used to play with.

May or may not have fallen asleep on the floor, with the toys scattered next to him and one clutched in his hand.

Doesn't speak unless you directly address him, especially in group settings. Sometimes Rhett gets so content with listening that he just...forgets that he can contribute to the conversation.

It's relatively easy to bring Rhett to tears; he's the first to get glassy-eyed during a sad movie, and his heart breaks a little when it comes time to send the cattle off to market. But it takes years of trust for him to let you see those tears, and even then, he tries to deny it.

Secretly very talented in welding. He took the classes as a high school elective, and it's a skill that's morphed into a hobby. On the rare instance that he has free time, Rhett's busy welding scrap metal together. The attic is filled with boxes upon boxes of trinkets he's made; do you want a tractor made out of a bunch of junk nuts and bolts? He's got plenty.

Sometimes? He just? Winds up on the floor? One minute he's supposed to be working, the next, he's lying on your kitchen floor. He usually doesn't know why, either; he just felt like being there.

Chews on the inside of his cheek when he's nervous. If it's quiet enough, you can usually hear the soft clicking of his teeth as he does it.

Confident when he's out in the country, shy puppy dog anywhere else. He's oozing confidence when he's out in those old fields, from tagging calves to dodging their pissed-off mommas, but the moment you take him away from what he's familiar with? His tail is between his legs. Quiet, glued to your side, and following your lead.

Always does this thing where he crouches and gets surprised when the spurs on his boots dig into his ass. Twenty years of wearing them, and he still hasn't learned.

Absolutely got in trouble for not taking his spurs off when he was in high school. He just forgets they're there until someone makes a comment.