#puzzle 238

[bugpysforge]

Try and Guess the Pokemon at dextrio.app

[boinin]

We're just getting edged at this point

[interdimensionalpancakes]

the main reasons why i ship coai

to me, coai/ shinshi is just the healthier ship, filled with trust, understanding, and mutual interests. it's also the one ship i can see lasting long term in the real world.

they are partners/ solve cases together: Ai likes when he rambles his deductions calling him a "sparrow" (file 713 & 714) and she isn't afraid to ask him for clarification if his explanations get too convoluted. He doesn't really need to help her understand the case, she can figure it out on her own most of the time (file 466-469, 656 [he smiled when he was listening to her deduction]) nor does she give up before she puts any effort into solving the problem first (file 548, 713). She actively contributes to his deductions and he always asks her if she has any ideas (file 287, 525, 664, 729). he can depend on her to stay calm under investigations (file 729, 870) and come up with plans to protect/ help the DB if conan can't be there (file 549, 817). she shares his same investigative curiousity and isn't a bystander, sharing her biochemist background to help shinichi's deductions (file 1098).

they help each other's overcome their weaknesses/ fears: her trust-issues & self-blaming tendencies (file 189-191, 344-346), his impatience & impulsivity (file 429, 475). they put each other at ease when it comes to being paranoid about BO members in public (file 287, 289, 359, 624, 680, 741 [he asked if she wanted to sleep over at the detective agency??], 775, 1006). As for the lies regarding the BO between the two, shinichi said it best in file 341: "[Haibara's] not as tough as she looks." They protect each other because if haibara tells conan about the BO he'll be impulsive/ wanting to attack them immeadiately and if conan tells haibara BO stuff before he resolved it, her trust issues would go on overdrive. Though it should be noted that haibara eavesdropped on some things, so she understands that conan's hiding things from her, by nature that she's the BO "traitor" she's hiding things from shinichi too.

they accept each other imperfections: they tease each other about being adults in a kid's body (file 515-517,724), shiho's age, his lack of tact, his tone-deafnesses, his relationship with ran, her fangirling higo, her aloofness/ sarcasm (file 680), etc. they can get angry with each other and they always apologize, while maintaining a healthy competitive relationship. she loves being able to challenge him intellectually such as telling him to guess her favorite song and the code in file 491, while he's always up for the challenge (file 200) since she knows that shinichi likes puzzles.

he always notices and likes when she smiles (file 275, 292).

shinichi is protective of her and she's protective of him (file 238- 242, 346, 429, 582, 624, 681, 824, 1070) but not in a possesive way & he doesn't need to be told to do so, it's automatic at this point. he promised to always protect her and he kept it.

shinichi always knows when shiho looks like she's going to run away. he always hopes that she doesn't but he always runs after her anyways just to make sure (file 289, 346, 437, 817).

he defends her family when other people make negative comments about them (file 425, 1072).

they share interests other than the BO (soccer, pop culture, animals, music, history, etc.) but they're individuals first.

their relationship has boundaries: haibara respects shinichi's feelings for ran / navigates her jealousy rather gracefully (file 313, 999,1000). conan doesn't probe further about her past with gin when she doesn't want to answer (file 242). they keep each other in check (file 242, 515, 1091). they never force each other to reveal secrets they're not ready to share (file 341) and she can tell when he's suppressing his emotions/ concerns (file 609).

they rescue each other even though they can rescue themselves without each other (file 755,817). she can guess where he'll be/ gives him a spare antidote (file 654) and he always has a plan to get her to safety (file 429, 824). haibara can predict conan's behavior and vice versa (file 289, 430).

side note: it's canon that ran ships coai (file 876), which is hilarious because ai ships shinran (mainly out of denial/ love bc she wants shinichi to be happy/ ran looks like her sister so she wants her to be happy, but this is a whole seperate discussion). also the DB always noticed a vibe between coai, especially ayumi and Mitsuhiko.

for those interested, there's a parallel to shinran: in file 887, haibara ai guessed conan's phone passcode correctly on the first try. whereas it took ran in file 483 multiple tries just to get it correctly. in non-canon movie 16th, conan saw ran's underwear and said 'white' out loud, in canon file 714, he saw haibara's underwear and also said 'white' out loud and he got defensive when she called him a pervert.

[simplyiigiselle]

SMG4 x SQUID GAME 2

(Why did I do this)

I wanted to do some silly stuff and made a au of a show about the flaws of modern capitalism and add characters from a silly meme shitpost of a channel :D

(This is a lazily done concept, I might make more, btw don’t worry there are no spoilers)

I made everyone human mainly bc I can’t draw a fucking fish in a tracksuit (boopkins I’m looking at you.)

Also everyone in this au are adults, I’ll explain their info(I changed a lot into my own hcs if they were human)

(I am including people I didn’t draw)

——————

SMG4: Player 004, Lucas Lidwerchigual, Age 29

SMG3: Player 300, Jamie Esmeray, Age 27

Mario: Player 456, Mariano Mario, Age 32

Meggy: Player 012, Megan Spitzer, Age 24

Tari: Player 359, Tari Nova, Age 26

Luigi: Player 122, Luigi Mario, Age 32

Bob: Player 302, Bob Bobowski, Age 42

Boopkins: Player 238, Frank Boopkins, Age 19

Melony: Player 210, Melanie Suga, Age 25

Axol: Player 209, Axel Kobo, Age 26

Desti: Player 430, Destiny Harper, Age 23

SMG1: Player 011, Oscar Montez, Age 39

SMG2: Player 002, Trevor Gemini, Age 34

Saiko: Player 123, Saiko Itchitaru, Age 29

Kaizo: Player 124, Kaizo Koorihara, Age 28

Francis: Player 166, Francis Fron, Age 35

Box club leader: Player 301, Benjamin Vix, Age 29

Depresso: Player 290, Dexter Hag, Age 36

SMG0: Player 008, Zeke SweetHart, Age 40

Belle: Player 360, Belle Fontiere, Age 26

Whimpu: Player 321, Hinpu Mitsuda, Age 23

Rob: Player 203, Robert Corn |||, Age 37

Shroomy: Player 087, Enoki Shroom, Age 34

Hal: Player 102, Harold Moniter, Age 36

Niles: Player 100, Niles Hunter, Age 38

Fred: Player 005, Fredrick Collin, Age 41

Karen: Player 101, Karen Katphich, Age 38

Chris: Player 071, Chris Gordman, Age 45

Swag: Player 069, Swayn Markor, Age 44

Mr Puzzles: Player 001, “Winston Harlot”, Age 35

[bratshaws]

through the hourglass 240. brb x oc

a/n: EHEHEHEHEHEHE(comments and reblogs are super welcome and encouraged!)

pairing: plus size!oc x rooster

warnings: none uwu

goodness gracious (pls read this one to know more what this fic is about!!)

chapter

1/

/210/211/212/213/214/215/216/217/218/219/220/221/222/223/224

/225/226/227/228/229/230/231/232/233/234/235/236/237/238

/239

(pls let me know if you want to be added to the taglist! )

taglist: @mirandastuckinthe80s @roosterschanelslut @wiipes @lcahwriter @novastories @gretagerwigsmuse @frenchtoastix @lizzie-rdj @fanboyluvr @atarmychick007 @comebacktoearthpls

@peachiicherries @mak-32 @lizziespidiepridie @roosterswifey @ollyoxenfrees @piceous21 @sqrlgrl22 @hofficoffi @lexhalstead3 @lorilane33 @legendarydreamersharkparty @luckyladycreator2

@emilybradshaw @louisahale @leobabbyyy @booklover2sblog @winter-run @ktjmac @graciereads @bigpoppajes @taytaylala12

@caitsymichelle13 @becks-things @caatheeriinee07 @fanboyswhore9 @jesfreedark @katiemcrae @lilmonstrjedi @hobiismyhopeu @teacupsandtopgun @insominac23 @gh0stsgoodgirl @mygyn @chavivaelisheva @kmc1989 @enchantingharmonyalpaca

-

Imagine their surprise, after Leonardo shows up to pick up the girls and go home - ‘im so exhausted, jesus christ’ while basically being dragged by his oldest daughter towards his car, only allowing himself to let out a quiet ‘thanks and bye!’ before he was gone - and after they went to the NICU to check on the twins that they weren’t the only ones in Marcus’ studio.

Beatrice waited for Bradley outside the car, smiling when he handed Nicole over to her- their little girl was snoozing on and off, so she decided to keep her close by - “So much for us planning a day in,huh Roos?”

Her husband chuckles, locking the Bronco before sliding his keys inside his jeans, meeting her on the sidewalk “I have to say I’m not as disappointed as I thought I’d be.” he shrugs, placing a hand on Beatrice’s lower back, “It could be much worse. At least I can sleep a bit.”

Beatrice chuckled as Rooster's hand gently guided her toward the entrance of Marcus's building, opening the elaborate doors so she could step inside first. She glanced at her husband, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Who knows, Roos?" she teased. "Maybe we'll get some alone time after we go back home."

Rooster raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "I like the way you think, babe," he replied in a low, suggestive tone. "We'll have to find a way to make the most of this unexpected free time." he coos, kissing her forehead then looking down at Nicole who was trying so hard to stay awake.

However, Bradley blinked, looking outside the building with his head tilted, “Huh.”

“What?”

He points to a car, “Doesn’t that look like Payback’s car?” he then looks ahead, “And that one like Jake’s?”

Beatrice followed Bradley's gaze, her curiosity piqued. She squinted at the cars parked on the street, recognizing the vehicles he mentioned. "You're right," she said, her brow furrowing. "Those do look like Payback and Jake's cars. What are they doing here?"

Rooster shrugged, his expression puzzled. "I have no idea," he admitted, glancing at Beatrice. "Could be just a similar car, nothing more.” and he lets the door fall shut behind him as they walk towards the elevator. Like before, he is the one pressing the button and winking at Bea when she adjusts Nicole on her arms, “So…about this thing.”

“Hm?”

“What do you think Marcus will do?” he asks with a smile, “Anything I should be warned about? Before I have a heart attack when I see you wearing it?”

Beatrice chuckled at Rooster's playful inquiry, leaning in to give him a quick peck on the lips. "Oh, you'll just have to wait and see, won't you?" she teased, "It's a surprise, Roos.For both of us, honestly."

“You really have no idea?”

She shrugs, moving Nicole to her opposite shoulder, running a hand through her hair, “I mean,I just know about his ‘Navy Inspired’ collection. But this? This is kinda new, you know?” she blinks, “You never know with Marcus, not really.”

Rooster nodded in agreement. "You're right, babe," he said, the elevator’s little ding! making him look at the doors. "Marcus always has a way of…surprising us.”

“You can say that again.”

As they stepped into the elevator, Beatrice pressed the button for Marcus's studio floor. The doors closed, and the elevator began its ascent. Rooster couldn't help but steal another kiss from Beatrice, his arms wrapping around her and Nicole as the gentle hum of the elevator surrounded them. “You nervous?”

“I always get kinda nervous with Marcus.” she chuckles, “I love him, he’s a great friend…it’s just my whole ‘issues’ coming over, you know?”

Rooster nodded in understanding. "I get it, babe," he said, pressing a soft kiss to Beatrice's temple. "But you know Marcus adores you. You've been friends for years, and he's seen you through all your 'issues,' as you call them. He also helped you go through some of them.”

Beatrice smiled, leaning into Rooster's embrace. "You're right," she admitted, her voice filled with gratitude. "I'm still getting used to being a model,Roos." she plays with Nicole’s tiny hand as the elevator ascends, “And also, well, I know it’s been over four years now but…I’m kinda glad not a lot of people can see that it’s me on the billboards?”

“I know.”

“I like my anonymity.” she smiles, “I like our life how it is. I don’t need the stress of something like that.”

Rooster tightened his hold around her, his voice gentle “I know,gorgeous." he said, planting another kiss on her temple. "I don’t mind it either."

The doors opened to Marcus's studio floor, and they stepped out into the spacious and well-lit area,freshly painted and even bigger than last time. Beatrice could see the familiar setup of sewing machines, dress forms, and racks of clothing. The studio was filled with various fabrics, sketches, and design materials, alongside some of Marcus’ employees.

"Marcus?" Beatrice called out, looking around for any sign of their friend.

A voice came from a corner of the studio, where a fitting area was set up with curtains and mirrors. "Just a moment!" Marcus called out. "I'm finishing up something back here."

Rooster and Beatrice exchanged curious glances, wondering what Marcus was working on. As they approached the fitting area, they could hear him bustling about behind the curtains.

"Almost done!" Marcus announced as he pulled back the curtain, revealing himself in a partially completed outfit. He wore a big smile, his excitement evident.

Beatrice's eyes widened as she took in the stunning garment Marcus was wearing. It was a navy blue gown that seemed to shimmer with every movement, adorned with intricate beadwork and embroidery. The dress was elegant and regal, with a flowing skirt that trailed behind him.

"Marcus, that's incredible!" Beatrice exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "Is this one of your new designs?"

Marcus nodded proudly. "Yes, it is," he said, turning himself around. "You know I've been working on a special collection inspired by the Navy, and this is one of the pieces. What do you think?" 

Marcus's outfit was a masterpiece. The navy blue gown he wore was made from a luxurious silk fabric that seemed to catch the light in a mesmerizing way, creating a subtle shimmer with every step he took. The dress was designed with a fitted bodice that accentuated his waist, adorned with intricate beadwork that formed delicate patterns reminiscent of ocean waves and anchors.

The neckline of the gown was a graceful off-the-shoulder style, framed by a sheer overlay of fabric that added an ethereal touch to the look. The sleeves of the dress were long and flowing, tapering down to delicate cuffs adorned with more beadwork and embroidery. The dress extended into a sweeping A-line skirt that billowed out dramatically, giving Marcus an air of regal elegance.

The real showstopper of the gown was the intricate beadwork and embroidery that covered the entire dress. Tiny pearls and crystals were meticulously hand-stitched onto the fabric, forming intricate designs that depicted maritime motifs, including seashells, starfish, and sailboats. The attention to detail was astonishing, and the craftsmanship was evident in every stitch.

To complete the ensemble, Marcus wore a pair of navy blue heels that matched the gown, giving him added height and grace, making him even taller than Rooster.

Beatrice and Rooster were both in awe of Marcus's outfit, and they couldn't help but applaud his creativity and talent. "It's absolutely stunning, Marcus," Beatrice exclaimed. "You've outdone yourself."

"You do look incredible. This collection is going to be a hit."

Marcus waved his hand at them, his eyes sparkling with joy. "Oh you two, so cute" he said gratefully. "I've put my heart and soul into this collection, and it means the world to me that you like it."

Beatrice stepped closer to examine the gown's intricate details up close, her fingers lightly tracing the beadwork. "It’s so beautiful," she said. "I can see the passion and dedication that went into creating this."

Marcus beamed with pride, his eyes never leaving Beatrice's as she admired his work. "I'm so glad you appreciate it," he said. "And speaking of appreciation, I have a surprise for you two!”

Rooster furrowed his brows, “Wait, me too? I thought–” Marcus opens the curtains and he reveals…the whole Dagger Squad, seated on Marcus’ extremely comfortable couch, snacking on some of the hors d'oeuvres he set up for them, “...what.”

“Hey Rooster.” Fanboy grins with a little wave, “Fancy seeing you here,man.”

The taller pilot is staring at everyone with his lips parted, Beatrice was staring at him as well, her smile only widening at his absolute silence. His hands went to his hips, his lips pursed and then he asked, “Wait…what is happening?”

The members of Dagger Squad exchanged amused glances as Rooster stood there in bewilderment. Fanboy chuckled and patted the empty spot on the couch next to him. "Come on, Rooster, have a seat," he said with a grin. "Marcus invited us too.”

Rooster blinked a few times, still processing the unexpected gathering. He finally managed to find his voice. “He did?," he admitted, his surprise evident. “What for?." He made his way over to the couch and took a seat next to Bob.

“He didn’t tell us yet.” the spectacled officer said, adjusting his glasses over his nose, “He just told us to be comfortable.”

Marcus, who was practically beaming with excitement, clapped his hands. "Surprise!" he exclaimed. "I wanted to share my new collection with all of you and…well, there is something else along the way.” he taps the tips of his fingers together, “You guys might be part of it.”

Silence followed, then Payback choked on his water, followed by Rooster appearing even more confused.

“Wait,” Rooster laughs, giving the fashion designer a weird look, “What? Uh, how-how, exactly.”

“Oh don’t be like that Bradley!” Marcus says, “You guys are amazing and since this was a Navy inspired collection…I called a few people and now,if you want, you are part of it! No worries about repercussions from the higher ups.”

Beatrice gasped softly, covering her mouth with a hand to hold back her laughter as she looked over to the seated officers, “Oh my God.” her husband still looked shocked, absolutely flabbergasted, “Oh my God.”

“But,” Rooster tries again, “We’re not…models,Marcus.”

Marcus leaned in closer to Rooster, his voice soft and conspiratorial. "Rooster, my friend," he said with a wink, "that's where you're wrong. You don't have to be a professional model to pull this off. What I'm envisioning is real people, real Navy heroes, wearing my designs. It's about authenticity and capturing the spirit of the Navy."

Rooster blinked, slowly starting to grasp the concept. "So, you want us to...model your collection?"

"Exactly!" Marcus nodded enthusiastically. "I've seen photos of you all in your uniforms, and you have a natural confidence and presence. You represent the Navy in the truest sense. I want to showcase that."

Fanboy chimed in, his grin wide. "And come on, Rooster, it'll be fun! We'll all do it together, like a squad, just like we always do."

Payback, who had finally stopped choking on his water, added, "I mean, Marcus promised there would be snacks and drinks afterward." and one final cough escaped his throat.

Rooster looked around at his fellow officers, who were all wearing expressions of excitement and anticipation. Beatrice, on the other hand, was trying hard not to burst into laughter at her husband's incredulous expression. “Can you,” he stands up, holding up a finger, “Give me one second.”

“Sure.”

He hurriedly walks up to Beatrice, holds her hand and walks away until he was no longer within earshot of their friends. He stares at her, eyes wide and then parts his mouth, placing his hands on her lips only to close it again. He does that a few more times, for his wife’s absolute amusement. 

Beatrice’s eyes crinkled at the corners with her smile, “Go on,” she says, “We’re far away from them. Enough for you to say what you want,babe.”

Rooster sighed and ran a hand through his hair, still clearly bewildered by the unexpected turn of events. He finally found his voice and spoke in a hushed tone. "Beatrice, did you hear what Marcus wants us to do?"

Beatrice couldn't help but chuckle at Rooster's continued disbelief. She nodded, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Yes, babe," she replied, "I heard. Marcus wants us to model his new collection."

Rooster's brows furrowed as he glanced back at their friends who were still chatting and laughing. "But... we're not models," he protested. "We're Navy pilots. This is... it's so out of the blue."

“Is it? You do fill an uniform nicely.”

He scoffs, the surprise melting for a second for him to whisper a, “Behave.” before turning his head away. “It’s just…um…why?”

Beatrice couldn't help but find Rooster's reaction to the idea of modeling amusing. She gently placed a hand on his arm and leaned in closer to whisper in his ear, "Well, it could be a fun experience, Roos. And Marcus is a friend. Plus, it's not like we have to make a career out of it. Just a one-time thing."

Rooster sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. He knew Beatrice had a point, but the idea of strutting down a runway in designer clothes felt worlds away from his usual life as a Navy pilot. "I guess you're right," he conceded. "It's just... unexpected."

“And I don’t think you’ll have to strut down a runway.” she giggles, she read his mind immediately, “I think you just have to be part of a photoshoot.” 

Beatrice smiled, her warm green eyes filled with understanding. "I know it's not your comfort zone, but sometimes trying new things can be exciting," she said. "And who knows, maybe we'll surprise ourselves and have a blast doing it. I know I did."

Rooster chewed the inside of his cheek,then sighed through his nose. “...I can’t walk in heels.," he mutters,”Or anything like that,I’m going to twist my ankle if I do.”

“I don’t think Marcus will offer you a heel,Roos.”

Her husband chuckled, scratching the side of his neck, looking back to where the Squad was, “...I mean,I…guess it’ll be okay.”

Beatrice smiled warmly, appreciating Rooster's willingness to go along with the unexpected opportunity. "That's the spirit," she said, leaning in to give him a quick kiss on the cheek. "You are okay with it then?”

Rooster nodded, his initial apprehension starting to give way to a sense of adventure. Yeah,I'm in. Let's do this." he says softly, ‘You think I’ll have to…do anything? Like,pose and stuff?”

“Knowing Marcus he’ll let you be as comfortable as you can.” she says sweetly, “Plus he’s our friend,he won’t make anyone uncomfortable,Roos.”

He nodded in agreement, still keeping his hands on his hips. "Alright," he said, his voice filled with determination. "I'm in. Let's give this modeling thing a shot."

Beatrice beamed at him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "That’s great, Roos!" she exclaimed, giving him a quick peck on the lips. "And don’t worry, me and Nikki" their daughter just peeked one eye open then closed before sighing sleepily, “Well, mostly me will be there for you.”

Rooster couldn't help but smile at Beatrice's infectious enthusiasm. He leaned in closer, his lips hovering near her ear as he spoke softly. Thank you,gorgeous. I love having you as my personal cheerleader." he teased, his warm breath sending shivers down her spine.

Beatrice chuckled, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Ahem,Rooster," she whispers, “We better…go back.”Their brief, tender moment was interrupted by the Squad's boisterous laughter and playful banter. Rooster and Beatrice turned their attention back to their friends, who were still engrossed in their conversation.

"Well," Rooster said, glancing at the Squad, "I guess we should go back and let Marcus know I’m on board." he takes her hand and takes her back to the group, inhaling quietly once Marcus hears them coming.

As they rejoined their friends, Marcus looked up with a knowing grin. "So, what's the verdict?" he asked.

Rooster exchanged a glance with Beatrice, their unspoken agreement evident. "I’m in," he said with a determined nod.

Marcus's eyes lit up with excitement. "Marvelous!" he exclaimed. "You won't regret it, I promise. This is going to be a blast!"

[mick1976]

Connections Puzzle #238 🟩🟦🟩🟩 🟪🟩🟩🟩 🟩🟦🟩🟦 🟩🟩🟦🟩

I am the absolute worst!

This puzzle was not that hard!

I’m changing my name to “one away”!

This is not the way I want to start my day!

[wadbot]

PETRAVKK.WAD: Petra Verkaik Tribute Wad MAP05 (544, -460, 0) Author: Stephen Huff Date: 1997-07-25 Description: Petra Verkaik was the November 1989 playmate. Her website is http://www.pinupgirl.com/ . She makes the list of most asked questions about playmates as the answer to 'Which playmate was saved in an automobile accident by her breasts?' This wad is a second exercise in the graphic arts using pretty girls downloaded off the net. It's primary function is to make impressive graphic scenarios. Though, even the toughest doombie should have some difficulty making it through without getting killed once or twice. It makes a nice demo of how an artist can use a game engine like doom2 to create a gallery in cyberspace for display of thumbnails of his own artwork. PLAYHINTS: For those of you who like to keep score, here are the final tallies on my playtesting the wad. Playtest conditions were as follows. Ultraviolence, and avoid using secret weapons caches, since players couldn't be counted on to find them all. This proves that you can make it through on ultraviolence mode. Level 1 Ammo B (bullets) 60, S (shotgun shells) 36, R (rockets) 20. Weapons pistol, shotgun, machine gun. Level 2 Ammo B 312 S 84 R 53 C (energy cells) 302, backpack, weapons 2-6. Health 76% Armor 176% Kills 98% Items 66% secrets 0%. Level 3 Ammo B 372 S 100 R 71 C 228, Health 100 Armor 95 Kills 98% Items 37% secret 0. Level 4 Ammo B 400 S 50 R 100 C 520 Kils 102% Items 44% Health 106% Armor 111%. Level 5 Ammo B 6 S 71 R 20 C 157 Kills 99% Items 44% Secrets 0. Level 6 Ammo b 6 S 100 R 31 C 294 Health 200 Armor 200 Kills 100% Items 61%. Level 7 Ammo B 50 S 28 R 31 C 20 Health 100 Parmor 100 Kills 89% Items 85% Secrets 0%. Level 8 Ammo B 80 S 57 R 45 C 101 Health 60 Armor 0. Level 9 Ammo B 238 S 99 R 39 C 449 Kills 100% Items 59% Secrets 15%. Level 10 can also be completed on ultraviolence. I forgot to write down my tally. Level 11 is a remake of level 30 fighting the big boss in hell, easier though, and you will find the layout interesting. This allowed me to use level 12 as a victory screen, with the changed sky texture as the new victory graphics. Because the display of the pictures is of importance, several levels require you to find a key, throw a switch, find another switch, throw it, etc. This causes floors to sink away revealing the graphics. In other levels, crossing lines turns lights on, revealing the graphics, etc. This may make the game occassionally puzzling to a player.

[greighish]

Strands #238 “Best of the best” 🔵🔵🔵🔵 🟡🔵🔵🔵 🔵

Connections Puzzle #504 🟩🟩🟩🟩 🟪🟪🟪🟪 🟨🟨🟦🟨 🟨🟨🟨🟨 🟦🟦🟦🟦

Wordle 1,226 3/6

⬛⬛⬛🟨⬛ 🟨⬛⬛🟨⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩

[bestmiisongs]

Best Miitopia Song - Round 3

[whatmakesyouthinkshesawitch]

Connections Puzzle #238 🟩🟦🟩🟩 🟪🟩🟩🟩 🟪🟩🟦🟩 🟪🟦🟩🟩

[drgaellon]

Connections

Puzzle #238

🟩🟦🟩🟩

🟩🟩🟦🟩

🟩🟩🟩🟩

🟦🟦🟦🟦

🟪🟪🟪🟪

🟨🟨🟨🟨

[kaydoesconnections]

02/04/24

Connections

Puzzle #238

🟦🟦🟦🟦

🟪🟩🟩🟩

🟩🟩🟩🟩

🟪🟨🟨🟨

🟨🟪🟨🟨

🟨🟨🟨🟨

🟪🟪🟪🟪

Not even close, wtf yellow, you’re not supposed to be difficult.

Answers:

[dailybuildmoar]

Dailies 20231119

I won Daily Squardle #654 with 5 guesses to spare! Word found after 5 guesses: 🟩🟨🟥🟥🟥 🟩🔳⬛🔳⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 🟩🔳🟨🔳⬛ 🟩⬛🟥⬛⬛ https://fubargames.se/squardle/ I won Weekly Squardle #82 with 6 guesses to spare! Word found after 6 guesses: 🟩⬛🟩🟧⬛ 🟩🟥🟥🟥🟨 🟩🟨⬛⬛🟨 🟩🟨⬛🟧🟩 🟩🟥🟩🟩🟨 https://fubargames.se/squardle/ waffle667 2/5 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 🟩⭐🟩⬜🟩 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 🟩⬜🟩⭐🟩 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 🔥 streak: 238 🧠 #waffleguru wafflegame.net Nmbr14 706 🟧🟧🟧🟧🟦 🟧🟧🟧🟧🟦 🟧🟧🟧🟧🟩 nmbr14.com WordLock536 5/5 words played 9 points 2 words removed 🟦🟦🟪🟥🟥 🟪🟪🟥🟪🟦 🟧🟧🟧🟩🟩 🟩🟩🟦🟧🟧 🟥🟥🟩🟦🟪 wordlockgame.com CellTower 563 ⬜⬜⬜⬜➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️⬇️ ➡️➡️➡️➡️⬆️⬜⬜⬜⬜⬜⬜⬜⬜➡️ https://www.andrewt.net/puzzles/cell-tower/?p=563 I solved Redactle #592 in 3 guesses with an accuracy of 100.0% and a time of 00:01:25. Play at https://redactle.net/

[nenekobasu]

the chara to be trusted the most is actually egojin huh like even if blue lock itself is untrustworthy egojin is never wrong. in his assessment of nagi-reo goal there are two important parts “i only felt uneasy about that goal” and “it can’t be recreated” and i think it’s important that out of these two statements the first is presented far more prominently, “hey this goal feels weird” isn’t the prelude to saying the goal can’t be recreated in fact it’s the main message

the magic of blue lock is that it creates unease within triumph and tells you through its most correct god figure that you’re supposed to notice this unease that uncertainty is an intentional part of the story because blue lock is a story that creates and affirms feelings of uncertainty, and i mean— didn’t that ch.238 goal feel weird? where are the reactions and scoreboards? where’s the shot name or puzzle pieces for the shot? what about the other non-isagi conflicts of the game? the threads of losing ones spot on the regulars or fouls? where’s the suicide? the goal itself is a test from blue lock and specifically it’s a self-contradictory test of trust where the key to the solution is to the feeling of unease 

(because you must trust the signs that are telling you not to trust your senses this test is similar to the one isagi has faced this game, but isagi has decided to trust in pure sight. to trust blue lock here would be to echo his mistake)

[shahananasrin-blog]

[ad_1] Never mind typing on WhatsApp, swiping on Tinder, or scrolling on TikTok; even after all these years, few apps are able to turn you into a phone-obsessed zombie quite like Candy Crush.More than a decade since it debuted on Apple and Google's app stores, the colourful tile-matching puzzle game remains an entertaining time sink for 238 million people worldwide. It's in many ways helped redefine what it means to be a "gamer", now someone perhaps just as likely to be a commuting mother as a pasty teenager in a blacked-out bedroom.Indeed, most Candy Crush players are women, and its huge player base has helped it make north of $1bn (£800m) in annual revenue for years.Developer King has delivered more than 14,000 levels and thousands of hardcore fans have finished every one, no doubt melting away many bus and train journeys in the process. Each time they polish off the latest new stages they're made to wait a few weeks for the next batch, hopefully not enduring some kind of existential "what do I do now?" crisis during the downtime.But those already pretty short gaps between level releases could well get shorter before too long, as every tech executive's favourite buzz term - generative AI - makes its mark on game development."They are undoubtedly changing the way people work," says Steve Collins, King's chief technology officer."We have great talented artists, designers, and developers and these tools enable our teams to do more. "It's really exciting for us - we are really only able to deliver to our players a small fraction of what's in our head, so anything that removes barriers is a fantastic thing." Image: King's chief technology officer Steve Collins AI will 'help creative people do more'From writing novels to recording music, generative AI that can produce human-like content on a whim is arguably threatening the norms of the creative industries more than any others.Why wait for a new Drake track when you could make one yourself? Does a money-driven film studio need to hire actors when deepfakes look indiscernible from reality?Similar questions have started to penetrate the gaming industry, notably among voice actors, who could join their Hollywood counterparts on strike.Collins insists AI cannot replace the work of his London-based team, but rather enhance it."This is about putting tools in the hands of really creative and skilled people and letting them do more," he says."Generative AI and large language models are really great at solving some repetitive and rule-based tasks, and that frees people up to be even more creative and focus on the skills they enjoy using." Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 AI: 'My nightmare is to die then be in an advert' 'Long history' between games and AIJust as this year has seen the likes of Google and Microsoft move to catch up with OpenAI's ChatGPT, gaming companies will be keen to make the most of the power of AI so not to risk being left behind.Some games, like the Xbox title High On Life, used the technology to generate art and voice-overs.And Call Of Duty, which is owned by King's parent company Activision Blizzard, is using it to listen out for hate speech during matches.King's own purchase of Peltarion, a Swedish AI company, last year looks particularly prescient.Of course, gaming has always been at the forefront of where art meets technological innovation, and AI has been a buzzword within the industry for far longer than ChatGPT has been around.Hop into an online game of FIFA and it won't be long before you hear someone bemoan their computer teammates, while single-player games have long offered difficulty modes where AI dictates how tough your enemies are.At King, bots are being used to test levels - playing through them as if they were humans to help hone the challenge.Collins says: "We have 238 million players - and we can't think of all of them as being an average player."Some want to be super competitive, some want to make a lot of progress quickly, some want a challenge, so we develop bots to play our games with different personas."This, he says, is the kind of utilisation of AI that frees up artists and designers to concentrate on making more and better levels.Read more:Why Harry Potter game was so controversialGod Of War's watershed moment for accessibilityHow British scandal changed course of landmark game Image: King's parent company Activision Blizzard is also behind the Call Of Duty series There's no doubt video games are becoming increasingly influential.Whether it's by leveraging gaming tech to make blockbuster films like Avatar, or turning to them for adaptions like The Last Of Us, other creatives are looking to gaming more than ever for inspiration.It's maybe part of why Collins, a computer scientist from Dublin, is optimistic about how his industry will take on a trailblazing role with AI in the years ahead. "Like everyone, we're very much in an experimental mode and still learning what this is capable of," he says."Of course there are challenges in how you take advantage of it - you can't guarantee the accuracy, you need to understand its limitations, there are serious questions to answer around content ownership and copyright."But I feel very optimistic about the innovations these technologies can bring."If those innovations mean more Candy Crush levels, busy mums and pasty teens alike will likely not complain. [ad_2]

[mercerislandbooks]

50 Years of Island Books: Erica Bauermeister

Erica Bauermeister lives in Port Townsend, Washington, with her husband and 238 wild deer. She's the New York Times bestselling author of many books, including The Scent Keeper, The School of Essential Ingredients, House Lessons: Renovating a Life, Let’s Hear It for the Girls, and her latest, No Two Persons. We've taken great pleasure in watching our community gather to celebrate her books. Lori Robinson welcomed Erica to the blog last May to launch No Two Persons, and today I'm bringing her back to contribute to our walk down Island Books memory lane.

Miriam: It's so nice to have you back here, Erica. Tell me, what are you thinking about when you walk into a bookstore?

Erica: I read once that almost 2,000 new books are published each Tuesday.  It boggles the mind, and it is what I think of each time I walk in a bookstore. I look at the selection of the books, especially the Staff Recommendations.  Are the books just the ones that everybody is talking about? Or can I sense an insightful reader’s mind behind the choices? When I encounter the latter, I know that I will also find the gems, the books I will open and realize that I need in my life, when a minute before I hadn’t even known they existed.

It takes an extraordinary amount of work to create a bookstore that feels as if it was made just for you. This is the special magic of Island Books. The tables at Island Books tempt me to read memoir, history, non-fiction, beach reads and mysteries. I find books in categories I might not otherwise, because I am tempted by  the obvious care in the selections. And I am grateful for the dedicated people who put these books in my life. To have an independent bookstore that is 50 years old and operates at such a high standard is amazing.

Miriam: I feel the same way and will spend the rest of my life marveling at the collective energy of so many minds. I'm so glad you're one of those writers as well as readers! Now, you've done multiple events over the years with Island Books. We hosted you in 2011, 2020 on Zoom at the height of the pandemic, and only a few months ago in May 2023. Do you have any particular memories from those events that stand out in your mind?

Erica: I’ve enjoyed all my visits, but I think my favorite was the most recent. It was an absurdly hot day in May. I completely expected the event to be me and a single bookseller, just sitting there sweating together.  But the welcome was so enthusiastic, and the chairs were full and the air fans were going and you could feel the community in the room. These were booksellers who loved their jobs, and customers who loved books and their bookstore. Readers in the best sense of the word. And you know what struck me at the end? The sheer number of people who bought books and had them personalized to someone else—and the smiles on their faces as they said “it’s a gift."

Miriam: I love that! In your opinion, what separates Island Books from the big bookstores and popular websites?

Erica: I love the serendipity of finding books that I didn’t know existed but which feel as if they were written just for me. Exploring the Staff Recommendations is one way, but my favorite is what I call The Bookseller Game. Rather than thinking about books in genres—literary, mystery, women’s fiction, dystopian, etc—you consider the feel of the books you most like to read. Are they plot or character driven? Do you gravitate toward long and luxurious sentences or short declarative ones? Is setting important? Do you like the puzzle of multiple narrators or the immediacy of a single, first-person narrator? Do you need a burning question at the center (who did it? why did this family fall apart? will the couple fall in love?) or do you relish just living in a different world for a while? 

Then you bring your answers to an indie bookseller and see what they suggest.  For example, the first time I played, I said I was looking for a wicked-smart novel with beautifully written sentences and an unreliable narrator. The bookseller suggested Gone, Girl. I said I didn’t read thrillers (completely forgetting the point of the game). She said “oh, you will now.” She was right, and I read more widely now because of her.

I suppose it’s possible to play this game with an algorithm, but I find algorithms bland and predictable. They know only what you have read, not what you could. The surprises happen at the smaller stores where the booksellers know their inventory. And my favorite part is watching a bookseller's face light up and hearing their enthusiasm. At its core, reading is about human connection, and the booksellers at Island Books are really, really good at it.

Miriam: Thank you. We love the work we do. That look on anyone's face when they're excited about a book is my absolute favorite as well. Readers can never go wrong with Gone Girl. Erica, it's always great to connect with you and we're grateful for your support and love for Island Books over so many years. We love your work and sharing your books with customers.

To our Island Books community: In the next 50 Years of Island Books installment, I’ll be talking to author and store friend Kevin O’Brien. The author of 21 internationally-published thrillers, he won the Spotted Owl Award for Best Pacific Northwest Mystery and served on the board of Seattle 7 Writers. Kevin's latest nail-biter, The Enemy at Home, just hit shelves in August. Check it out in the meantime!

—Miriam