#setup and countdown!!! incredible

[fastandcarlos]

My Home : ̗̀➛ Carlos Sainz

summary: the journey of how your long distance relationship is reunited once again 🛬

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liked by charles_leclerc, ynusername and 892,742 others

carlossainz55: day 50 of missing my best friend and all the little ordinary things that she somehow made feel extraordinary ✨⛅️

42,068 comments

username1: it’s so impressive how these two make long distance work so well 🥹

ynusername: can’t wait to come home and be back with you again 💞

carlossainz55: @/ynusername just a few more days to go amor 🥺

username2: is it bad that I’m also counting down the days until they’re reunited again??

danielricciardo: you two are incredible managing to keep things going even though you’re so far apart 👏🏻

username3: carlos always knows how to break our hearts with a soft caption 💔

charles_leclerc: you’ve managed to do a really subtle job of letting us all know how much you miss her 😂

username4: the fact that he trusts her enough to cook with her too…

alexandrasaintmleux: if it makes you feel any better I also can’t wait for yn to be home 🥳

username5: can’t wait for these two to be back together again and blessing us with content!

landonorris: I keep telling you that we can go for coffee together but you don’t listen!

carlossainz55: @/landonorris there are certain things that just aren’t the same with you 🫢

username6: 50 whole damn days since we last saw the dream team side by side 😭

georgerussell63: and here I am thinking a week is a long time to be without my girl…

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liked by carlossainz55, lilyzneimer and 113,048 others

ynusername: day 64 of being away from your handsome face. can’t wait for beach days like these once again soon 🩵

15,897 comments

username7: sorry yn but do you expect me to be okay after posting that middle photo!?

charles_leclerc: btw he’s had a countdown going down on his phone everyday since you left 😂

ynusername: @/charles_leclerc embarrassed to say I’ve got one too, on my home screen as well 😊

username8: please someone just end their suffering already and reunite them 💕

maxverstappen1: pls come and get your man soon, fed up of dealing with his lovesick whining 😝

username9: how anyone could survive being away from that handsome face is beyond me 😂

landonorris: just to clarify, you’re talking about carlos’ handsome face…you never know, it could be mine 😇

ynusername: @/landonorris as happy as I am to see you soon, it’s definitely carlos’ 😂

username10: he really is the definition of a soft boyfriend isn’t he…

alexandrasaintmleux: cannot wait to see your beautiful face opposite me at a coffee table soon ☕️

username11: over two months they’ve been apart and now in a matter of days they’ll be together again, like a fairytale ✨

carlossainz55: home is ready and waiting for you, as are my open arms 🫂🥰

ynusername: @/carlossainz55 I can’t wait to be back in your hold again 😍

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liked by charles_leclerc, landonorris and 128,069 others

ynusername: race day -1, settling down for my last race away from home, you got this darling ❤️🏎️

17,492 comments

carlossainz55: sorry that I couldn’t bring home the win love, maybe next time when you’re back there with me 💞

ynusername: @/carlossainz55 ik you were secretly holding on so I got to be there in person 😂❤️

username12: I can’t begin to tell you how happy this post makes me knowing you’ll be home soon 🥺

username13: now this is the kinda setup I need for race day!!

carmenmmundt: wish I was there to snuggle under that blanket with you

lilymhe: @/carmenmmundt I’ve already bagsied the blanket for movie night when yn’s home 😘

username14: notice how it’s carlos in the lead with yn watching too ☺️

charles_leclerc: thank god I don’t have to deal with his moping around without you for anymore races 🙌🏻

georgerussell63: petition for you to make hot chocolate for all of us when you’re back in the paddock too 😏

ynusername: @/georgerussell63 not a chance with how needy you guys are 😂

username15: it’s adorable how yn has always made sure to be watching the races even though she’s away with work

landonorris: I’ve lost count of how many times he’s told me that you’ll be at the next race, he’s so excited yn!!

username16: their interactions somehow melt my heart every single time they update 🫠

danielricciardo: on behalf of every driver, please save us from carlos telling us how much he misses you constantly asap

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liked by alexandrasaintmleux, oscarpiastri and 1,583,293 others

charles_leclerc: my last few days of filling the large yn shaped hole that has been in my sweetie’s life ❤️🥹

104,587 comments

username17: I’m not ready to say goodbye to this pairing soon 😭

ynusername: thank you for taking such great care of my best friend leclerc ❤️

username18: charles has somehow become carlos’ emotional support system over the past couple of months lmao

danielricciardo: I also don’t think I’m stable enough for this bromance to end just yet…

username19: I’m sure yn is beyond grateful for the fact that carlos has had you by his side charles

carlossainz55: what would I do without my honey right by my side!?

username20: I’ve got high expectations for alex next time yn has to go on a work trip 😂

landonorris: guessing that carlando means nothing to you anymore then @/carlossainz55

carlossainz55: @/landonorris every time I came to you you just laughed in my face remember?? 🙄

username21: why do I get the feeling yn is coming home just to be a third wheel…

alexandrasaintmleux: can you boys just get a room and have done with it please 🤦🏻‍♀️

charles_leclerc: @/alexandrasaintmleux just tell us you’re jealous without telling us you’re jealous

username22: the way he just calls him sweetie as if that’s the norm 🥹

alex_albon: please come and meet me to pass on all your tips and advice for next year 😂

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liked by charles_leclerc, fernandoalo_oficial and 129,573 others

ynusername: day 1 of being back in my favourite place on earth…home 🏡❤️

21,958 comments

carlossainz55: the house finally feels like a home again with you back inside 💕

username23: I can’t believe they’re finally back together again, this is so exciting!!

charles_leclerc: welcome home yn!! can’t wait to catch up with you this weekend!!

username24: apparently carlos was front of the line at arrivals making sure he got to her as quick as he could 😭

scuderiaferrari: we’re looking forward to welcoming you back into the garage this weekend ❤️

ynusername: @/scuderiaferrari can’t wait to catch up with the whole team and watch a race again!!

landonorris: I’m happy you’re reunited but I’m more happy that he’s finally gonna have a smile on his face again

username25: the way he carries her suitcase so effortlessly has me all kinds of giddy

georgerussell63: welcome back to monaco, we’ve all missed you so much!

username26: I’ve never been more excited for two people that I don’t even know…

maxverstappen1: he cancelled our game of padel today for this…I’ll let him off just this once 😂

ynusername: @/maxversrappen1 if you ask carlos he’ll say it’s definitely worth it 😂

username27: this means we finally get to see yn back at race weekend again 🎉

alexandrasaintmleux: I need to see you asap, missed you so much 💞

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liked by scuderiaferrari, carlossainz55 and 124,068 others

ynusername: reunited with my second home, I forgot how good red looked on me. good luck to the best team on the grid this weekend, so happy to be back and cheer you on in person 🫶🏻☺️

22,604 comments

username28: damn we really did miss seeing you at a race weekend yn 🏎️

carlossainz55: you have no idea how happy I am to have you back with me again 💞

ynusername: @/carlossainz55 I bet it’s just as happy as I am to be back with you and the team again ✨

username29: hoping for a great result this weekend now that carlos has you back again

landonorris: patiently waiting for you to come and visit me, or do you plan on betraying me like carlos did??

ynusername: @/landonorris I promise I will come and see you at some point this week 🫂

username30: what are we supposed to do when red no longer is your colour next year??

danielricciardo: you must be pretty close to trying on every colour of the grid now 😂

carmenmmundt: um excuse me there better be a carmen plan somewhere in your schedule for this weekend 👀

username31: the camera somehow focused on you more than the cars in quali today 😂

oscarpiastri: it was lovely to finally meet you after hearing SO SO many stories about you!

ynusername: @/oscarpiastri I can only apologise for how much he talks about me ☺️

username32: the moment we’ve all been waiting for for so long 🤩

username33: please never leave us for a race weekend without you ever again!!

charles_leclerc: this has by far already been my most peaceful race weekend in a very long time all thanks to you!!

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liked by landonorris, ynusername and 1,048,271 others

carlossainz55: turns out my lucky charm really was the missing piece all along. thank you my love for coming back home and bringing me the luck I needed to be top of the podium again 🏆😍

89,473 comments

username34: does this mean that yn is never allowed to leave for a race ever again???

charles_leclerc: couldn’t be prouder of the race you put together this weekend, good job sweetie!!

username35: we’re all so proud of you carlos and your lucky charm 🫶🏻

scuderiaferrari: congratulations on such an amazing result carlos, the whole team is so proud of you ❤️🏎️

username36: he really was waiting for the moment for when yn could be there to celebrate too 😭

georgerussell63: that was incredible, saving your best for your girlfriend I see 😉

alex_albon: smashed it my friend, there was no catching you today 🚀

username37: this weekend has just reminded me just how much I adore these two humans!!

landonorris: buzzing to see you back where you belong on that top step mi amigo

username38: yn has to stick around forever now if she’s a lucky charm!

danielricciardo: it’s funny the effect a loved one can have isn’t it!? we all knew you were racing just to impress yn anyway 😂

username39: this weekend really couldn’t have gone more perfectly 😭

ynusername: I didn’t think you were being serious when you said you were waiting for me 😂

carlossainz55: @/ynusername a race win isn’t a win without you by my side 💕

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˗ˏˋ 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 ! ´ˎ˗

[danganronpasurvivoraskblog]

Dangancember 2024 - Danganronpa Top 24 Class Trials - Number 15: Danganronpa 1 Case 6

//This render is sick^^^

//Anyway.

//I want to quickly jump back a little bit to the beginning of this countdown at the beginning of this month. If you've been reading these posts as they've been uploaded daily, you would remember that one of the kickstarters of this list was Chapter 6 of Danganronpa V3; i.e. the final trial of that game.

//And you'll remember that I largely had very negative opinions of it. For a variety of reasons.

//However, to V3-6's credit, if there's one thing I can say it DID hit the mark on, it's the fact that it was both climactic AND emotional.

//Regardless of what kind of emotion it made you feel, whether you satisfied with the twists of it or not, I don't think any of us can deny that the final trial definitely felt like a final trial.

//Which...is strangely not the case for me in my relationship with the finale of Game 1.

//Let's talk about it.

//For starters, let me just preface that I don't dislike the ending of Danganronpa 1. It DOES contain one of my favourite plot-twists in the series, as most of the final trials tend to do. But to quickly sum up my thoughts on it, I think I generally feel about it the OPPOSITE of how I feel about Game 2 Case 2.

//Game 2 Case 2 was incredibly satisfying for the story, and the character development, but it felt incredibly lackluster as a mystery. Game 1 Case 6 is an incredible and fun mystery, but once it's solved, it's packed with what I think are really mediocre and cliche character moments that feel a bit too...anime, compared to the rest of the game.

//For what it's worth though, the setup for this finale is pretty solid. I think that largely has to do with the fact that unlike the rest of the games, where the 5th Case is far removed and kind of only slightly lays the groundwork for the final chapter, the one that did it in this game, I feel, was Case 4 with Sakura. While Cases 5 and 6 feel like a 2-part finale, especially since Case 5 can end with the Bad Ending where Kyoko dies, and the remaining students are forced to live out the rest of their days in the school.

//But in the alternative TRUE ending of the game, things take a turn that’s both fascinating and a little...anticlimactic.

//Let’s be honest: the final chapters of the Danganronpa series tend to be less about storytelling and are basically one big investigation. Even though the trials themselves kind of round up all the key mysteries in the plot in one...not-so neat little bow, the 6th Chapters themselves are mostly trying to scramble together loose clues to SUPPORT the final points.

//But in this case, it's not just an obligatory sprint to the finish line. It’s a clever, engaging lead-up to the climax.

//Chapter 5 leaves Makoto narrowly escaping execution with an assist from Alter Ego. Instead of the afterlife, he gets the cozy confines of a garbage pit, where he hangs out for a while before Kyoko shows up to save the day.

//Of course, Makoto’s earlier decision to let Kyoko’s gambit slip didn’t just keep her in the game, it also boxed Monokuma into a corner. Caught in a lie, Monokuma has to save face, and Kyoko masterfully reminds him that the "outside audience" is watching. So rather than just brushing the gang off (which he can easily do, might I add), Monokuma makes a bold move: he dares them to uncover every mystery of Hope’s Peak and their situation. If they can figure it all out, they can leave.

//This is largely why I like Monokuma so much in the first game, because these are his roots, and what sets him apart as a villain. Although, to be perfectly frank, I admit that this trial is probably where things kind of take a poor turn for him. That's not the bear's fault though, but...we'll get to that.

//Either way, challenge accepted, queue what I actually think is one of the best investigation segments in the entire series.

//I didn’t love it at first. My initial impression was that it was one giant info dump, which can be a problem for the final chapters in this series, as I've kind of already said.

//And trust me, this trial definitely IS an info dump. As I said before, the issues with the final trials are universal throughout the whole series, and that includes DRA and SDRA2.

//But on reflection, I came to appreciate how dynamic and rewarding this investigation feels. Compared to 2-6, or V3-6, this one doesn’t feel like a tedious game of “connect the dots.” Instead, it’s like you’re genuinely piecing together a massive, vital mystery.

//I think that's especially because of the sense of freedom. Throughout the game, even in the later stages, there are areas you’ve known about all along but couldn’t access until now. Finally getting to explore them feels as satisfying as closing a dozen browser tabs after finishing a huge project.

//(That's the same joke I made back when I reviewed these trials on Reddit. Needless to say my opinions have changed a bit.)

//It’s an “ahh, yes” moment that makes you feel like you’re cracking open the heart of the game.

//Then there’s the trial itself. Sure, it’s not as flashy as some of the earlier trials, except maybe the first and fifth one, but that’s okay. It doesn’t need to be.

//What makes this trial stand out is that the Big Bad isn’t spending the whole time lecturing you or dumping plot twists on your head. Most of the revelations are things you’ve already uncovered during the investigation. You’ve got all the puzzle pieces; now it’s just a matter of putting them together.

//Unlike in the other games, the villain isn’t spoon-feeding you answers, and the clues actually feel meaningful, which is a step up from some of the other final trials.

//There's a lot of really neat plot twists in this case, particularly the fact that the students have actually been here for over 2 years now, and they WILLINGLY locked themselves inside the school, but as far as they go, there are two major twists that stand out especially.

//And while I think both are good, the first one...is executed a little strangely.

//I won't say POORLY.

//Just...strangely...

//The twist I'm referring to is the twist of who the Mastermind controlling Monokuma is, and who actually is that's running the Killing Game.

//And...You know what? I don't know why I'm dancing around so much, we all know who it is.

//It's fucking Junko Enoshima. THE Mastermind. The biggest villain in the series and one of the most all-time notorious villains in FICTION.

//Again, I shouldn't have to explain this to anybody who's a fan of Danganronpa and has played these games, but...I have to pad this out somehow. What makes this reveal especially shocking is that Junko was presumed dead early in the game. During the first trial, she is graphically executed for breaking Monokuma’s rules, leading everyone to believe she was just another victim of the deadly game.

//However, the twist reveals that this was part of an elaborate ruse. Junko faked her own death to continue manipulating events from behind the scenes. The rumored 16th student hiding somewhere in the academy, Mukuro Ikusaba, who we find out was actually the Ultimate Soldier; and in this trial, Junko's older twin sister; willingly posed as her and took her place as the first apparent victim.

//This misdirection ensured that no one would suspect the real Junko was still alive and controlling Monokuma.

//I have complained previously about how Mukuro really wasn't much of a character in DR1, because honestly, I generally don't think I would have given a single shit about her had it not been for IF, and this game really just treats her as a plot twist and a throwaway character.

//At the same time though, I do have to commend this segment not just for its cleverness, but how it immediately sets up what kind of threat you're dealing with. The fact that Mukuro and Junko were not only working together, but also Junko's reveal that they're SISTERS, shows her ruthlessness and willingness to sacrifice anyone, even her FAMILY, for the sake of her goals.

//These days we obviously know that Junko doesn't care about anything enough to think twice about making these sacrifices. But remember, this was the first time we ever got to see her in action.

//And for what it's worth, I think this really is a good way of showing how the person who set up this absolutely horrific game is every bit as evil as we anticipated they would be.

//(Also, minor note here, but one thing I really like is the fact that the reason why Junko's surname is Enoshima and Mukuro's surname is Ikusaba is never actually explained, and Junko absolutely refuses to say why. I just think it's kind of funny.)

//But anyway, when Junko finally reveals herself, her character takes center stage. She is far from the shallow Fashionista image she projects in the outside world. Instead, she is the embodiment of chaos and despair, characterized by her erratic behavior and constant personality shifts.

//The Ultimate Despair, if you will.

//Her motive is not rooted in greed or revenge but in a nihilistic obsession with despair itself. She orchestrated the game to spread despair to both the participants and the outside world, reveling in the suffering it caused. Her ultimate plan involved broadcasting the killing game to the apocalyptic world outside, amplifying despair on a global scale.

//Generally I think this twist itself is fine. It does a good job in recontextualizing much of the game, from the participants’ amnesia to the overarching theme of Hope VS Despair. It also highlights Junko's brilliance as a manipulator and cements her as the standout villain of the series, and it's its still one of the most defining moments of the franchise, even though today, we all KNOW who Junko is, and that she's essentially Hitler in a schoolgirl outfit.

//...Don't imagine that, please.

//Actually, I take it back. Hitler WISHES he could be this evil. But again, we will get to that.

//So with all that said, the real question is what do I think of Junko as a character, AND as the Mastermind?

//Well...that's a bit of a difficult question, because the honest answer is that it depends on the iteration.

//For example, I think she's an extremely competant and awesome villain in DR2, wheras in DR3, I still think she's a cool, sadistic villain, but only when she's not being such a valley girl.

//(DR3 is legit the only iteration in the series where I generally prefer the sub instead of the dub, but then again, the majority of the voice cast is different, save for Makoto and a few of Class 77. I do love Jamie Marchi, but I'm just so taken by the afflictions of Bennett Abara and Erin Fitzgerald, and I think they nail the switching personalities way better.)

//As for the first game...eh...It's honestly not her strongest.

//To be completely and totally blunt, the first time I played Trigger Happy Havoc, the moment the mastermind stopped hiding behind Monokuma and revealed themselves was a standout point where my enjoyment of the game took a SWANDIVE.

//While the twist revealing her as the mastermind pulling all the strings is undeniably clever, her execution as a villain in this game feels…underwhelming.

//Don’t get me wrong, some of her later appearances, show a much darker, more sadistic, and outright evil side to her character, but...we'll talk about that when we eventually cover those cases.

//Here though? It’s almost hard to believe that this cartoonishly over-the-top douche-canoe is the Mastermind behind all the heartbreak, destruction, and death you’ve endured.

//And yeah, I know I said that killing off Mukuro really showed that villainy out of the gate, but...that's really it, at least at first.

//As established, learning that Junko was behind everything was one of those jaw-dropping moments that sticks with you. It’s a classic "mastermind was hiding in plain sight" reveal, and I loved the sheer audacity of it. But as soon as she starts talking, her dialogue and exaggerated mannerisms make her feel like a Saturday morning cartoon villain.

//She’s dramatic to the point of absurdity, and while that’s part of her...ahem..."charm"...it also undermines the gravitas of what she’s done. Especially when she goes on to reveal what's ACTUALLY going on in the outside world.

//You’ve just spent the whole game mourning your friends and unraveling this massive conspiracy, and now you’re confronted with...what is basically a living meme? It’s a bit of a tonal whiplash.

//Then there’s her motivation...or lack thereof.

//When you first find out that Junko orchestrated this apocalyptic nightmare purely because she felt like it, it’s almost laughable. She’s not driven by revenge, ideology, or even self-preservation.

//Nope, she just wanted to watch the world burn because despair is her jam, and it is QUITE LITERALLY the only way she can feel anything anymore.

//Don't get me wrong, that can work for a villain. I mean, look at the fucking JOKER from DC comics. He's basically the exact same.

//But just because the Joker manages to pull it off, that doesn't make it any less tricky of an archetype. Villains who are bad just because they can be need to be handled with finesse to avoid feeling hollow or one-note.

//Unfortunately, Junko in the first game falls victim to that curse. The game shows the things that she has achieved, mostly on her own, might I add, and when you look at it, is really shows just how INSANELY powerfil this creature of a woman is. But the issue is that that isn't reflected in her personality, or the way she conducts herself. If anything, it downplays her.

//But at the same time, Junko's not designed to be a "likable" villain. She’s not supposed to have layers of tragic backstory or moments that make you empathize with her. Junko is the ultimate embodiment of Despair, a character specifically crafted to make you loathe her.

//And in that sense, she’s excellent at her job. She’s less of a person and more of a force. A plague infecting everything she touches, leaving destruction and misery in her wake. The sheer hate she inspires is exactly the reaction she’s meant to evoke, which is why she works so well as the overarching villain of the series.

//Especially compared to the other big bads, Monaca and Tsumugi. Not counting Mikado, Utsuro, or Akane Taira, because they're another matter. Junko still stands out as the strongest antagonist.

//Sure, Monaca had her moments, and hell, even Tsumugi had hers in the end, as limited as they were. But Junko’s influence is on a whole other level.

//She’s the original, the template, the blueprint for despair in this universe. Her character’s impact, not just on the narrative but on the players themselves, is unmatched. You’re not supposed to like her. You’re supposed to hate her with every fiber of your being, and that’s why she’s so effective.

//Which is kind of what I hope to capture in Survivor. What's most important for me with Junko going forward in this story is I want to make sure she damn FEELS like the most dangerous creature on the planet. Hence why her introduction in the final arc of Phase 2 immediately shook everyone to their core before she even revealed herself.

//So, while I’m still not a fan of her cartoonish antics in the first game, I can’t deny that Junko’s presence lingers long after the credits roll. She’s not a "fun" villain or a "cool" one, but she’s the right kind of villain for this story. The kind that gets under your skin, makes you uncomfortable, and ensures you’ll never forget her, whether you want to or not.

//But in short, the whole way she's presented just makes it hard for me to take these sinister aspects seriously, and thankfully, it gets fixed in later games.

//But then there’s the other twist. THE twist. One of the best in the series, hands down: the reveal of the outside world.

//Turns out, the world beyond Hope’s Peak’s walls; that, might I add, everybody has been fighting this WHOLE game to break through and breach through any means necessary; is a post-apocalyptic wasteland, courtesy of "The Biggest, Most Awful, Most Tragic Event in Human History."

//Because why the FUCK not!?

//The twist is devastating, not just because it’s essentially...well...the goddamn APOCALYPSE, but because of the weight it retroactively adds to everything that’s happened.

//All those characters who died trying to escape? Their desperate struggles were for a world that’s beyond saving. It’s heavy, gut-punch stuff, and it reframes the story in such a tragic, chilling way that it hit me like a brick wall.

//For me, this moment was peak Despair. It’s haunting, it’s horrifying, and it lingers.

//But again, this is another reason why I struggle to take Junko seriously as a villain, because the sense of sadism she gives off throughout the game when she's acting as Monokuma doesn't match when she finally reveals herself.

//You're telling me that the entire world outside of the school fell into a state of despair and destruction...because of HER?

//THIS chick!? REALLY!?

//It just...It feels so unbelievable at the time, and...thankfully, it DOES get fixed in later games. But that doesn't change that I really wasn't okay with it at the time I first experienced it.

//Still, it doesn't really take away from the horror of the twist itself, and I think these days, we're so attuned to this aspect of the Danganronpa games that we tend to forget just how POWERFUL this moment is. Like I said, it's one of THE BEST plot twists in the series.

//The students' isolation is no longer just physical but existential. They've spent this whole game fighting to get back to the safety and freedom of the world outside this school, but...now there is seemingly no safety or freedom to return to.

//And you realize, with horror, that this school, where anyone could drop dead at any moment by someone else's hands, is the LAST BASTION of humanity, and the SAFEST PLACE IN THE WORLD!

//I also forewent mentioning this, but this also explains why the Killing Game is being broadcast. Unlike the rest of Junko's main motivations for getting her classmates to murder each other in this game, it’s not just a sick experiment but a psychological weapon in a larger, twisted agenda.

//Junko’s ultimate goal of spreading Despair gains new weight as the broadcast of the game becomes a tool to perpetuate the hopelessness consuming the world. This revelation elevates the stakes BEYOND personal survival, tying the characters’ struggles to a global narrative and making their choice to hope all the more significant.

//But what you might be wondering so far upon reading this is...why do I have this so low on the list if I have so many good things to say about these twists?

//So far, my biggest issue with the trial is that I struggle to take Junko seriously as a villain. But I also admitted that in the later series, this gets reprimanded because Junko as a villain becomes more dangerous.

//Well...ah...the simple answer is that I'm REALLY not a fan of how this all gets resolved.

//Because as I kind of implied at the beginning of this post, there's...a strange lack of impact here for me, for something that's supposed to be an incredibly climactic finale.

//I can actually break the explanation why down into three things.

//One: Hope winning out over Despair feels way too simplistic.

//The way that this trial ultimately resolves itself is that Junko sets up a gambit where the survivors of the Killing Game get to vote for her to be executed. Complying herself with the rules of the Killing Game, she is the one who killed Mukuro, so that technically makes her the blackened for the case.

//The catch is that EVERYONE has to vote for Junko, and when Junko dies, they will get to leave the school. If even a single person doesn't vote for her, the spotless (everyone else) suffers the punishment.

//It sounds simple enough, considering voting for Junko is the only way that they don't die, but the twist is that the way they "die" is of old age, being trapped in the Academy forever. And it's a difficult situation because if they stay trapped in the school, the killing game will continue with Junko watching over them. But if they vote her out, they'll be forced to step into the outside world, which as a reminder, is a hellscape.

//Also, Makoto gets killed because Junko doesn't like him. Perfectly understandable at this point considering he's basically fucked her over.

//(Also, I know this is from the anime, but I love this little cartoon, don't @ me.)

//Well...we have a franchise, which includes a trilogy of games, and a spinoff game, so you probably already know how this gets resolved. The survivors boldly choose hope and triumph over Junko’s despair, thanks to Makoto "planting his seeds" in them.

//Also, this is probably the most impactful thing Makoto does the entire game beyond his relationship with Sayaka in the first chapter. Most of the stuff he does, he's either told to do, or is goaded into doing, by Kyoko. She's basically the real heroine of the story and Makoto is the sidekick.

//Although, despite the way I feel about this, I can't really talk bad about Makoto in this case, because even with the fact that this is the biggest impact he leaves on the game, it doesn't feel outwardly nonsensical or contrived for him to be doing this.

//And no, that's not just because he's the protagonist. Hajime and Shuichi did the same thing effectively, but somehow, Makoto's tirade still ends up being distinct.

//I know that they don't spend much time dwelling on it, since this is the only time in the whole series where the two of them actually meet face to face. But I genuinely think people don't talk enough about Makoto's relationship with Junko and how they are are perfect narrative opposites, with their contrasting ideologies and approaches to life defining the thematic core of the whole franchise.

//Makoto represents unwavering hope, kindness, and the belief in the inherent goodness of people. Despite his initial self-perception as "ordinary," he consistently demonstrates an extraordinary ability to inspire others and bring people together. He believes that hope is not just about avoiding ruin but actively choosing to confront challenges and inspire growth in oneself and others.

//This perspective is why he's such a beacon of resilience and optimism, emphasizing that Hope is a collective force built on trust and unity.

//On the other hand, Junko embodies nihility, chaos, and a deep CONTEMPT for humanity. Her obsession with despair stems from a warped view of life’s meaninglessness and the thrill she derives from causing suffering.

//Where Makoto uplifts and motivates those around him, Junko manipulates and tears them down. And even without him realizing it, her attempts to crush hope are repeatedly thwarted by Makoto’s ability to inspire perseverance and unity in his allies.

//Their dynamic showcases how these two ideas aren't just opposing forces but choices individuals make in responding to adversity. The dichotomy between Junko's cynical, destructive despair and Makoto's optimistic, constructive hope underscores their roles as perfect foils, driving the series' exploration of human resilience and the enduring power of belief.

//But even with all of that said, am I the only one who feels that this is almost suspiciously...tidy...given the dark and gritty narrative leading up to it?

//For a game that throws its characters into a relentless spiral of betrayal, murder, and despair, the ending wraps things up in a way that left me scratching my head more than anything.

//The survivors’ unanimous decision to embrace hope feels a bit too streamlined for a group that just spent weeks accusing, lying, and voting each other to their deaths.

//As a reminder, Makoto is literally the ONLY PERSON here who didn't try to screw over the whole group at least once.

//(Before anyone asks; Byakuya in Chapter 2, Toko, Hiro, and Hina in Chapter 4, Kyoko in Chapter 5. Also, Hiro and Toko did nothing to help this whole game and my god this is probably the worst group of Survivors in the entire series including the Another games so help me god Kyoko and Makoto are the only good ones here and I guess Hina too because she's a sweet bean but fuck the rest of them I know Toko redeemed herself in UDG but she sucks here they all suck WHYYYYYY-)

//These are people who were at each other's throats, sometimes literally, yet by the end, they're standing shoulder to shoulder as a united front. It’s as if all those emotional scars and lingering trust issues evaporated the moment Makoto delivered his TED Talk on hope.

//While inspiring, it also raises the question: Did nobody need at least a little therapy first?

//Anyway, two: The ambiguity of the Post-Apocalyptic Setting.

//There’s a stark contrast between the gritty narrative tone of the game and the saccharine optimism of its finale. The world outside is still a post-apocalyptic wasteland, riddled with despair and ruin, but the survivors walk out of Hope’s Peak Academy with the confidence of contestants on a game show finale.

//Sure, they’ve chosen hope, but how do they plan to, you know, survive out there? The optimism feels less like a well-earned triumph and more like the developers waving a bright "TO BE CONTINUED" sign at the audience.

//For a plotline that doesn't really get resolved in the best way, might I add.

//Putting DR3 aside, the only sign we get of what happened to Makoto and co. after the Killing Game is the fact that the main trio shows up at the end of DR2 and reveal that they are the members of the Future Foundation trying to save the Remnants of Despair, and then we get further context in Ultra Despair Girls.

//But we don't actually SEE a lot of what happens to the survivors and how this came to be in those games. Even in the anime, they're kind of already established members of the Foundation, so...there's still a lot that isn't ever really explained. We don't know what they actually DO with their lives post-Killing Game.

//I can't complain because yeah, the sequel at least proved to be an absolute godlike game that really built a solid foundation from DR1. And again, a lot of these issues are mainly because of DR3, not DR1.

//Finally, Three: The lack of impactful consequences for Despair.

//Junko’s obsession with Despair was such an overwhelming force throughout the game that defeating her with a pep talk and a group vote feels like it might have oversimplified things a bit.

//I'm not saying they could've jumped her and killed her on the spot is a good alternative, because that solves nothing, but still...

//Junko spends the entire trial, as well as most of the game when she masquerades as Monokuma, proving that despair is layered, intricate, and relentless.

//But Hope? Hope wins in a neat little package with zero paperwork or follow-up emails. For a villain as theatrically chaotic as Junko, her defeat feels almost anticlimactic.

//The only villain defeat that's more anticlimactic than this is that one Borderlands villain who dies falling down some stairs.

//And that's the real killer for this final trial. It's anticlimactic. At least, it's anticlimactic compared to the final trials of literally any of the other game finale's.

//Despite its tidiness, the resolution does fit thematically with Danganronpa’s central message: Hope, no matter how improbable or naive, is the antidote to Despair.

//Still, for a game that thrives on complexity and moral gray areas, this resolution feels more like a rainbow-colored band-aid slapped onto a very messy wound. It works, but it doesn’t stop you from side-eyeing the optimism as you imagine the survivors squinting into the wasteland and wondering what on earth they’ve gotten themselves into.

//But in short, when it comes to the Danganronpa series and fangames, if you can do an ending that's better than this ending, then it's a good ending.

//And luckily for us, we still have three more final trials to talk about.

[tychodorian]

It's Manuscript Monday, and today we're exploring how to pick the right platform for publishing your book. Let’s break down IngramSpark, Amazon's KDP, and Kobo.

Amazon's KDP offers incredible reach and exclusive promotions like free eBook days and Kindle Countdown Deals. The catch? You must stay exclusive to Amazon for eBooks during these promotions.

IngramSpark is perfect for getting your book into physical stores, offering great print quality and wide distribution. But, it comes with higher setup costs and a steeper learning curve.

Kobo excels in international markets, especially Canada, and doesn't require exclusivity. However, it has a smaller audience compared to Amazon.

Thinking of using an aggregator? They distribute to multiple platforms for convenience, though they take a slice of your sales.

Choose based on where your audience is, the book type, and your preferred involvement level. Each platform has its perks! Personally, my favorite platform is KDP, but what's yours and why?

Got questions or tips about self-publishing? Drop them below! Let’s help each other out. Happy writing!

[brainyxbat]

Chapter 28: Magnificent Wings! My Name is Pell, Guardian Deity of the Country

(episode 125)

"Ribbit, ribbit, ribbit, ribbit; hey, Mr. 7. I think this is quite an important mission."

"That's right, Ms. Father's Day."

"I think perhaps we may have been given an incredible status. Ribbit, ribbit."

Mr. 7 laughed haughtily with his hand in front of his mouth, like a pampered heir. "I hope that's the plan. I hope so; I hope so, Ms. Father's Day. After all, our plan is to shoot a cannonball into the crowd using such a big cannon! So I hope so!"

"Ribbit! It's almost time, Mr. 7!"

He promptly lit a match. "Preparations to fire complete! 15 seconds until the attack!"

"The target is the center of the Square. Ribbit, ribbit." She swayed her skirted hips. "Ignite!"

"Hey, Nami!" Usopp exclaimed. "What the hell are you trying to do?! We really don't have time! If we fail, we die! Hey!"

"I know that! Just stand there quietly! I'm calculating right now!"

Usopp was standing in a squat, forming a tower with Chopper and Vivi. "Quietly? I don't understand the point of this setup! What the hell are you gonna do?!"

"You'll know once I do it!" Nami snapped. "Ready?!"

"Ribbit, ribbit, ribbit, ribbit. Hey, listen, Mr. 7! This is a rare occasion! I wanna do a countdown!"

"Is that your plan? That's good, that's good! Sounds interesting!"

"The weather forecast is typhoon!" Nami formed a cross with her Clima Tact above her head.

"13 seconds until the attack!" Mr. 7 and Ms. Father's Day announced, as the rope grew shorter and shorter.

"Cyclone... Tempo!"

"H-hey!" Usopp panicked when she threw the shorter piece in his direction. "Cyclone Tempo is just a boomerang game for after parties."

"Make for the Clocktower!" The rod portion hit poor Usopp in... a very bad spot.

Venus watched with Sanji, cringing in sympathy for the sniper, when to their surprise, they seemed to be ascending. "What the heck? They're coming up!" Sanji remarked.

"Chopper! Jump to where Venus and Sanji-kun are!" Nami ordered.

"What?!" Chopper and Vivi exclaimed together in shock.

"Don't tell me; is she saying... the plan is to jump all the way up like this?!"

"Sanji-kun! Venus! You know the rest, right?! We don't have time!"

"I'll deal with you later for that, Nami!" Venus shouted angrily, pointing down to Usopp, as she braced herself.

Sanji stepped one foot on the ledge. "I think I get the gist of it, but- oh, heck! I just have to do it!"

"Sounds like we won't have time to think!" Vivi decided. "I'm counting on you, Tony-kun!"

"Okay! Hang on tight, Vivi!"

Zoro observed from the window, as he panted. "I see; that's what we're doing."

"Chopper! Get on my right leg!" Sanji leaped down from the ledge.

"Got it!"

"11!" The enemies taunted.

Using his leg as leverage, Sanji launched Chopper and Vivi upward. "There! They're coming, Zoro!"

"Venus-san!" Vivi exclaimed in surprise when the witch was suddenly seated behind her.

"Okay! Good job!" Nami praised, as a delirious Usopp had landed behind her, face-first.

Zoro looked up at the ticking clock. "So all I have to do is throw them to the top of the tower, right?!"

"10!"

"Zoro!" Chopper called out.

"Okay! Leave it to me!"

Chopper gawked when two of his swords were drawn. "Swords?!"

"You dummy! Don't be scared! I'm using the back of the blade!" He formed an X for a launchpad in mid-air. "Get a good foothold!"

"Ah, okay!"

"9!"

"Be careful, Vivi, Venus! There're weirdoes up there."

"Weirdoes?" Venus quirked a brow.

"Yes, they're familiar faces." She looked up, and her eyes widened.

"Hm?!"

She panicked when the two spotted them. "No!"

"Ms. Wednesday!"

"Ribbit, ribbit, ribbit. I know that she's a traitor to our company!"

"They've noticed!" Nami fussed.

"What?!" Usopp jumped to his feet.

"Wait a sec! We're in the air!" Zoro realized. "If they shoot at us-!"

"Adjust! Ribbit-ribbit Gun!" Ms. Father's Day pointed her weapon threateningly. "This is an unexpected catch!"

"Adjust! Yellow Gun!" Mr. 7 laughed tauntingly. "This is good, this is good! They're perfect prey!"

"You bastards!" Sanji glared menacingly. "How dare you point guns at Vici-chan, and Venus-chan?!"

"This is bad! They're a sniper pair!" Vivi exclaimed.

"Chopper! I'll shoot you guys up anyway! I'll change the direction, so you do something after that!"

"What?! Me?!" He exclaimed down at Zoro.

"Seven seconds left!" Nami counted.

"Do something!" Usopp cried.

"Ready?! I'm gonna shoot you guys up!"

"Okay!" Chopper nodded, which was repeated by the girls.

"Ready-!"

"Smash!"

"Go!" Just as they shot, Zoro launched the three upward.

"Hey, listen. Our bullets are..."

"Planned to crash, and explode," Mr. 7 finished.

"Zoro!" Nami exclaimed when he was struck in the head.

"That idiot!" Sanji gawked. "He took a direct hit!"

"Ready, Vivi, Venus?!" Chopper turned into Muscle Point.

"Yep!"

"With all your might, please, Tony-kun!" While Venus held onto Vivi, Chopper launched them up to the top.

"Ribbit, ribbit. It's no use..."

"Dodging!"

"Smash!" They shot again, and were surprised at the large, furry man before them. "Who's that?!"

Chopper's quick changing into small form saved him from getting hit, and quickly fell with a scream of terror. "Where's Ms. Wednesday?!" Ms. Father's Day glared.

"What happened?!"

"Peacock... String!"

"Strega-Strega... Palla!"

"She's up there!" Mr. 7 pointed out.

"Who's that other girl?!"

"Go!" Nami and Usopp shouted, as Vivi and Venus prepared to launch their respective attacks, as Sanji finally landed on the ground.

"Slasher!"

"Palla!" They stood side by side on the ledge, after their attempts were dodged.

"Ribbit, ribbit! Sorry!"

"You missed!"

Venus growled with fury at their mocking. "Frogs have nothing to do with Father's Day!"

"Venus-san, jump!" Once she was out of range, Vivi whipped her slashers to shove the duo away. "Run Back!"

"All right!" Usopp cheered when the two adversaries were falling.

"Vivi!" Venus cried out, now by the cannon. "I don't have any water spells! And it's going too fast!" She was trying in vain to stomp out the fire, lagging behind with every attempt.

1 second left! "Vivi!" They all screamed.

"Venus-chan!!" Usopp wailed. As the battling ceased, everyone braced themselves for the explosion... but strangely, nothing happened. "Was it stopped?" Usopp asked cautiously.

Vivi panted heavily, as Venus was ducking down with her arms over her head. The former had used her slasher to cut the rope, just in the nick of time. "You did it!" Venus cheered.

Sanji turned to Zoro, who landed face-up next to him. "Oh, you're alive."

"Wh-what happened to the attack?" He panted with a smirk.

"Hm? What fell on me?"

"Ouch!" Chopper frantically ran away from the Marine on whom he had landed head-first, and joined the crew watching the clocktower. "What's the matter?"

"They say something's wrong up there," Zoro replied, as the dust cleared up to reveal Mr. 7 and Ms. Father's Day flat on the ground.

"Vivi isn't showing her face," Nami remarked.

"Venus-chan either," Usopp added.

Just then, the two showed themselves, but were frantic. "There's a problem! Everyone!" Vivi called out.

"Vivi!"

"The cannonball has a timing device!"

"If we don't do something, it'll explode!" Venus added frantically.

"What?!" The crew shouted in horror.

"Dammit! What the hell!" Sanji raged. "The attack was stopped, but the cannonball..."

"Has a timing device?!" Chopper exclaimed.

"If it has power to destroy a 5km diameter, the Square and the town won't survive after all!" Zoro remarked.

"What's gonna happen?!" Usopp cried. "Does this mean that it was impossible from the start to stop the explosion in the Square?"

A sobbing Vivi was pounding on the cannon helplessly, as Venus' mind and heart raced. "He made us come this far to look for it! He even announced the attack! Just how far..." She collapsed to her knees. "Does he have to go to make fools of us?! Just how much does he have to mock us?!" Her voice started to crack. "Crocodile!!"

Venus turned to the clock-free hole for ideas, when a bird silhouette heading their way in the sun caught her eye, along with the rest of the crew's. "Huh?"

"That was..." Sanji remarked.

"That bird guy," Zoro finished.

"Vivi! The bird man's here!"

She turned around at Venus' voice, and saw a familiar face. "Pell!"

"This place brings back memories," He remarked, "The Sand-Sand Clan's secret base. Your unprecedented actions really gave us lots of trouble all the time."

"Pell, listen! The cannonball has a timing device, and is ready to explode at any moment!"

"There's less than a minute left!" Venus added frantically. "I-I think..."

"I feel proud from the bottom of my heart that I was able to serve you, the Nefertari Family." To the girls' shock, now in falcon form, he hauled the giant ticking cannonball out, and began flying straight upward. Vivi reached up to him in vain, with Venus holding her back; nothing could be done now.

He flew above the clouds, and while he was out of range... it exploded! The crew gaped in shock and horror at the bright flash in the sky, sending a mild shockwave through the area.

[pharmaconferenceandexpo]

Unlock Opportunities: Register as an Exhibitor Today!15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference May 14-16, 2025 | San Francisco, United States

Introduction The countdown has begun for the 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference—a premier event that brings together global innovators, thought leaders, and professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of San Francisco from May 14 to May 16, 2025, this event is a golden opportunity for organizations to showcase their cutting-edge solutions and establish themselves as leaders in the pharmaceutical sector. Why Exhibit at the Digital Pharmaceutical Conference? Exhibiting at this renowned conference offers unparalleled benefits for your business:

Connect with Key Decision-Makers:

Meet industry leaders, executives, and professionals who are shaping the future of the pharmaceutical landscape. This is your chance to build meaningful relationships and form valuable partnerships.

Showcase Innovative Solutions:

The exhibition floor is the perfect platform to demonstrate your products, technologies, or services to a highly targeted audience actively seeking innovative solutions.

Enhance Brand Visibility:

Position your brand as a thought leader in the digital pharmaceutical space. Gain exposure to a diverse audience of attendees from all corners of the globe.

Generate Quality Leads:

With hundreds of attendees from across the pharmaceutical ecosystem, you'll have ample opportunities to engage with potential clients and partners who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer.

Stay Ahead of Industry Trends:

While showcasing your offerings, you'll also gain insights into the latest trends and challenges in the pharmaceutical industry through conference sessions and networking opportunities. Who Should Exhibit? This event welcomes exhibitors from all facets of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, including:

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Clinical trial solution providers

Drug manufacturing and supply chain innovators

Data analytics and AI developers

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Key Highlights of the Exhibition

Prime Location: The conference venue in San Francisco offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to optimize exhibitor and attendee interactions.

Interactive Booth Options: Customize your booth to create an engaging and memorable experience for visitors.

Networking Opportunities: Take part in exclusive networking sessions, panel discussions, and social events to expand your professional network.

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How to Register as an Exhibitor Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event! Registering as an exhibitor is quick and easy. Here’s how you can secure your spot:

Visit the official conference website.

Navigate to the “Exhibitors” section and complete the online registration form.

Choose your preferred booth location and setup options.

Submit your payment to finalize your registration.

Early Bird Discounts Register before February 15, 2025, to take advantage of exclusive early bird rates. Limited spots are available, so act fast to secure your preferred booth location! Join Us in Shaping the Future The 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference is more than just an event; it’s a gateway to the future of healthcare and innovation. By registering as an exhibitor, you position your organization at the forefront of this dynamic industry. Unlock opportunities, forge connections, and leave a lasting impact. Register as an exhibitor today and be a part of this extraordinary journey.

Conclusion

Here’s a concise and engaging conclusion for your call to action:

"Don't miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your innovations at the 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference. Be a part of shaping the future of the pharmaceutical industry. Unlock opportunities—register as an exhibitor today!"

Would you like this adapted further or expanded with additional details?

Register here:

More Information To learn more about the 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Innovations Exhibition & Congress, visit our website or connect with us on social media:

Website: https://utilitarianconferences.com/

Twitter: @UCGConferences

Facebook: Utilitarian Conferences Gathering

https://pharmacy.utilitarianconferences.com/registration

[123lineengineers]

Productivity Cube Timer with Gravity Sensor and LED Display

Enhance Your Productivity with Ease

Transform the way you manage your time with the Productivity Cube Timer. This innovative mini digital timer features a gravity sensor and a sleek LED display, offering a modern and efficient way to keep track of time. Whether you’re cooking, studying, or working, this versatile timer is designed to help you stay focused and productive. With its compact size and advanced functions, it’s the perfect tool for anyone looking to improve their time management skills.

Advanced Features for Optimal Performance

The Productivity Cube Timer is available in two versions, each tailored to meet different needs. The advanced version offers more sophisticated functions and exquisite craftsmanship, making it ideal for those who demand precision and style. Here are some of the key features: Gravity Sensor: Automatically starts the timer when flipped, making it incredibly easy to use. LED Display: Bright and clear display for easy reading, even in low light conditions. 4 Preset Time Modes: Choose from preset times for quick and convenient use. Dual Modes Countdown: Offers both countdown and stopwatch modes to suit various activities. Compact Size: Measuring just 1.7 x 1.7 x 1.8 inches, it fits easily in your pocket or bag. Durable Material: Made from high-quality ABS plastic for long-lasting durability. Rechargeable Battery: Equipped with a 500mAh battery, ensuring long hours of use on a single charge.

Benefits of the Productivity Cube Timer

Improves Time Management: Helps you stay on track with tasks, reducing procrastination and increasing efficiency. Versatile Use: Ideal for cooking, studying, workouts, office work, and more. Easy to Use: Simply flip the cube to start the timer, no complex setup required. Portable and Lightweight: Perfect for use at home, in the office, or on the go. Enhanced Focus: The preset time modes help you maintain focus on specific tasks without constant clock-watching.

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The Productivity Cube Timer stands out with its unique design and user-friendly features. The gravity sensor allows for seamless operation, while the LED display ensures visibility at all times. Its dual modes and preset times cater to various activities, making it a versatile addition to your daily routine. Whether you’re timing a recipe in the kitchen, managing study sessions, or keeping track of work tasks, this timer provides the precision and convenience you need.

Take Control of Your Time

Don’t let time slip away. Invest in the Productivity Cube Timer and experience the difference in your productivity. With its advanced functions and practical design, it’s the perfect companion for anyone looking to make the most of their day. Get yours now and start mastering your time like never before. Read the full article

[damientheionandroid]

Damien's 20 Favorite Pokémon

Pokémon Sword and Shield is a game that I'm pretty hesitant to play. I did play it once on my dad's Nintendo Switch, but I since got bored of the game and never completed it. And to this day, I have no desire to come back and finish the game nor do I want to check out the DLCs.

Still, I do love some aspects of the games, particularly the Pokémon roster since I already talked about Corviknight on the main countdown, as well as Zamazenta in the honorable mentions. But if I were to pick my favorite Pokémon from those games:

What would you get if you cross a prehistoric creature with a Stealth Bomber?

...

Seems like a ridiculously stupid creature, but not if you're:

9. Dragapult

Whoever at GameFreak responsible for Dragapult's design really hit a home run with just how sleek it is.

This Pokémon has some pretty interesting inspirations for its design: being based on an extinct species of tetrapods called Lepospondyli, specifically the Diplocaulus. And the reason that the Pokémon's tail is almost transparent is because scientists at the time of Diplocaulus' discovery had no idea what its tail looked like.

And as for Dragapult's head, it looks like Northrop B-2 Spirit Heavy Bomber. You know what Dragapult is called in the PokéDex? The "Stealth" Pokémon; just like a "Stealth Bomber", another name for the afromentioned aircraft! It even has the little holes that reflect the B-2 Bomber; except that instead of acting as a turning to increase its speed, it houses its base evolution, Dreepy.

Speaking of those critters, let's talk about Dragapult's signature move: Dragon Darts. This move has the Stealth Pokémon fire the DREEPYS in its horns that fly at SUPERSONIC SPEED at the target! I would make a Pokémon CPS joke here, but it seems as if the little critters ENJOYED acting as mini-kamikaze bombs as they always gather around the fastest Dragapult in the group!

Speaking of "fastest", that is basically Dragapult in a nutshell: a glass cannon with an astronomical 142 Base Speed stat, the highest of all Powerhouse Pokémon and the second highest in the OU tier only behind Deoxys-Speed Form. The "cannon" part comes from its 120 and 100 Base Attack and Special Attack while the "glass" part comes from its mediocre bulk with a 75 on both Defensive stats and a Base 88 Speed Stats.

Dragapult's dual typing of Ghost and Dragon is, to be honest, below average: it only hits Pokémon of its own typing for super effective damage and gains an additional weakness to Ice, Dark, and Fairy, the latter two encompassing some of the strongest Pokémon in Smogon Overused. Though to be fair, a powerful neutral attack is enough to OHKO most opponents with its Offensive stats.

As for Dragapult's Abilities: Infiltrator and Clear Body can be useful on different sets: the former allows for brute forcing through Substitute and Screens, while the latter allows for a physical setup sweeper that is immune to Intimidate.

Before I talk about Dragapult's movepool, let me elaborate more on the Stealth Drake's signature move: Dragon Darts. One unique trait about this move is its smart-targeting capabilities, specifically in Double Battles: usually this move will hit both Pokémon on the opposing field. However, if one of those Pokémon is a Fairy type, uses Protect, or has a high chance for the move to miss, then Dragon Darts will target the other Pokémon instead! That is pretty ingenious of GameFreak to design a multi targeting move like Dragon Darts and it makes it different than other moves like Discharge or Surf.

This video perfectly explains what I've just said about this move:

But with that said, a big issue Dragapult has is a lack of consistent Physical STAB options: Dragon STAB has its signature move that is only 100 Base Power (assuming both hits connect), the easily exploitable Outrage, and the incredibly inconsistent Dragon Rush. Its Ghost STAB is even worse, its most powerful is Phantom Force, which is not only 10 Base Power weaker than its signature move, but it is also exploitable with it needing two turns to do damage. And to add insult to injury, Sword and Shield introduced a reliable Physical Ghost type STAB option in the Isle of Armor DLC called Poltergeist, with a reliable Base 110 Base Power and needing an opponent with a Held Item to do damage (which in the context of competitive Pokémon, means ALL THE TIME!!!).

And no, the excuse of "BuT iT wIlL mAkE dRaGaPuLt BrOkEn!1!11!" doesn't fly here since GameFreak also introduced the most blatantly overpowered Ghost type in the following DLC in Spectrier, and by extension, Calyrex-Shadow Rider.

*ahem*

Random tangent aside, that is not to say Dragapult's movepool is devoid of consistenly strong moves: U-Turn, one of the best switch-in moves, can be learned at Level 36; powerful Special moves like Shadow Ball, Draco Meteor, Flamethrower, and Thunderbolt can be use due to its decent Special Attack stat; and it has some great status moves such as Dragon Dance, Dual Screens , and Will-O-Wisp, the latter pairs really well with Hex, which Dragapult can learn as early as Level 18.

The Stealth Drake really benefits from two generational gimmicks that patched up its Physical STAB inadequacies: Generation 8's Dynamax turns its situational Phantom Force into a devastating 130 Base Power Max Phantasm with the added effect of lowering the opponent's Defense stat by one stage and Outrage into an equally devastating 140 Base Power Max Wyrmwind with the added effect of lowering the opponent's Attack stat by one stage, perfect support tools in Doubles. And then Generation 9 introduced the Terastal Phenomenon which finally provides a viable Physical STAB option for Dragapult in Tera Blast; which changes into either a Physical or Special move whenever the Attack or Special Attack stat is higher, allowing for a Tera Ghost or Dragon Physical Blast.

It might be biased to all of you since I'm a Pokémon fan since the 6th generation, but the modern generation has some of the coolest looking Pokémon on top of being absolute beasts in battle, and Dragapult is no exception. From its sleek design to how powerful it is in the competitive scene, the Stealth Drake is my favorite Powerhouse Pokémon and is a must catch in any game it's available in.

But it's NOT my favorite Ghost Type Pokémon.

[comfybirb]

Dream Diary: Slushy Roads, Feds, and Ominous Numbers

last night’s dream had me riding in the back of an fbi van, but not as a prisoner—just a passenger. the agents seemed pleasant enough, but the conditions they were driving in were anything but. it was a whiteout, the roads were slushy, and every time a truck passed, it blasted filthy muck all over the windshield. the wipers barely managed to clear it, leaving streaks behind, and the driver was cursing a blue streak, reaching one hand out the open window to try wiping it clean.

the agents were dressed in these old-school blue denim windbreakers with faded yellow fbi text—practical, but clearly worn out. the van itself felt like it had seen better days, adding to the sense that these guys were just scraping by with the resources they had. despite that, i got the distinct feeling they were doing something incredibly important for me, even though the whole setup—weather, gear, vehicle—felt like it was just barely holding together.

at one point, i noticed a bright amber seven-segment display mounted at the top center of the windshield. it displayed the number "6," glowing brightly and reflecting off the faces of everyone in the van. i’m not sure what it meant, but it felt significant—like a timer, a countdown, or a marker of something urgent. the dream ended with that same sense of importance mixed with struggle, as if the agents were on a critical mission but just barely managing to push through the storm.

[jennifer861]

🎉🏢 New Office, New Beginnings – 2024! 🏢🎉

Hello everyone! We’re thrilled to share that we’ve just moved into our brand-new office, marking a fresh chapter for our team in 2024! This space is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and growth as we continue to push boundaries and serve our amazing clients and partners.

The new office reflects our journey so far and our ambitions for the future, complete with open spaces, cozy corners, and the latest technology to enhance productivity and connection. The energy here is incredible, and we’re ready to make the most of this inspiring environment.

👻🎃 Halloween Countdown: Just Around the Corner! 🎃👻 And as if our new beginning wasn’t exciting enough, Halloween is creeping up fast! Our team is in full swing planning some spooky surprises and festive décor. We’re gearing up for a Halloween that combines the thrill of our new space with all the classic fun – costumes, candy, and eerie decorations!

Stay tuned for more updates and some sneak peeks at our Halloween setup. We’d love to hear any theme ideas or costume suggestions from you all, so drop them in the comments! 🎃🕸️👻

Here’s to a year of growth, creativity, and a bit of spooky fun along the way. If you’re nearby, drop in for a visit – we’d love to show you around!

[poorvikasmartgadgets]

Meet Your New Favorite Smartphone - Nothing Phone (2a) Plus

Are you on the lookout for a smartphone that seamlessly combines cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and exceptional performance? Well, look no further than the new Nothing Phone (2a) Plus! This latest release from Nothing is packed with features that are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting new launch and see what makes the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus a standout choice.

Extra Powerful Performance

At the heart of the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus lies the MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G processor. This powerhouse delivers incredible performance and power efficiency. With its 8 cores clocking speeds up to 3.0 GHz, the Phone (2a) Plus is 10% faster than its predecessor, the Phone (2a). The Mali-G610 GPU ensures graphics and number crunching are 30% faster, making gameplay smooth and enjoyable.

A Generous Boost in RAM

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus comes with a whopping 20 GB RAM, featuring a 12 GB RAM + 8 GB RAM Booster. This ensures that your apps are instantly accessible right where you left off, perfect for multitaskers. Plus, the advanced liquid cooling system keeps your device at its optimal temperature, no matter what you’re up to.

Extra Extended Battery Life

With a 5000 mAh battery, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus offers up to 22 hours of YouTube playback. The battery maintains over 90% of its maximum capacity even after 1,000 rounds of charging. And if you’re in a hurry, the 50 W Fast Charge can give you a day’s worth of power in under 20 minutes.

Extra Pixels for Extraordinary Photos

The camera setup on the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a triple threat. The upgraded 50 MP front camera guarantees stunningly true-to-life photos. With a 50 MP main sensor featuring OIS & EIS, a 50 MP ultra-wide sensor with a 114º field of view, and an AI-driven Portrait Optimizer, your photos and videos will be sharp, clear, and vibrant. Plus, the AI Vivid Mode and Night Mode ensure your shots look amazing in any lighting condition.

Extra Cool Design and Display

Designed in London, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus sports a flexible 6.7" AMOLED display with 1300 nits peak brightness and 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate. The screen can deliver stunningly accurate color reproduction of over 1 billion colors, making it perfect for watching videos, playing games, or browsing your photo gallery. The phone’s design includes a metallic edge achieved through innovative nano-coating techniques, adding a premium feel to its sleek appearance.

Extra Special Software and Features

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus runs on Nothing OS 2.6, powered by Android 14. This latest version of Android offers a smooth and intuitive experience, rooted in utility and functional customization. You get a segment-leading 3 years of software updates and 4 years of security updates, ensuring your device stays up-to-date and secure.

The Glyph Interface on the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus brings essential information to you via customizable light and sound combinations. Whether it’s notifications, ringtones, or even a visual countdown timer, the Glyph Interface helps you stay present in your daily life without constantly checking your screen.

Extra Focus on Connectivity

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus supports Dual 5G, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6, NFC for Google Wallet, and features an in-screen optical fingerprint sensor and face unlock for added security. With an IP54 rating, the phone is tested for dust and water resistance, ensuring durability.

Why Buy the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus?

Performance: The MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G processor ensures top-notch performance.

Design: Sleek, metallic finish designed in London.

Battery Life: Long-lasting 5000 mAh battery with 50 W Fast Charging.

Camera: Triple 50 MP camera setup for stunning photos and videos.

Display: Flexible 6.7" AMOLED display with 1 billion colors.

Software: Nothing OS 2.6 powered by Android 14, with 3 years of updates.

Features: Glyph Interface, advanced cooling system, and more.

Ready to make the switch? Buy Nothing Phone (2a) Plus now and experience the perfect blend of performance, design, and innovation. Check out the latest Nothing Phone 2a Plus offers and find your ideal smartphone today.

Whether you’re looking for the best Nothing Phone 2a Plus price in India or want to explore the stunning Nothing Phone 2a Plus colors, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out on this incredible device. Shop now and elevate your smartphone experience to the next level!

[movieholicaarav]

Breaking the Ice: Creative Approaches to Winter Heater Advertising

As winter approaches, the demand for heaters surges, making it a crucial time for brands in the heating industry to capture market attention and drive sales. With every brand vying for visibility, it's increasingly important to stand out. Below are several creative heater advertising strategies specifically tailored for winter heater campaigns that not only attract potential customers but also keep them engaged.

1. Engage Through Storytelling

A great story can captivate an audience, and using storytelling in your advertising can make your brand memorable. Develop a narrative around your heaters that focuses on warmth, comfort, and family gatherings during the chilly months. Consider creating a series of short stories or an ongoing character that people can follow throughout the season, highlighting how your heater improves their winter experience.

2. Leverage Social Media Challenges

Social media challenges are a fantastic way to engage with a younger audience and generate buzz around your product. Create a fun and easy-to-participate challenge that relates to staying warm. For instance, you could start a "#CozyWinter" challenge, encouraging users to post pictures of their cozy home setups with your heater in the background. Offer incentives like discounts or a chance to win a free product to encourage participation.

3. Interactive Online Ads

Interactive ads can drastically increase engagement rates. Design an interactive ad where users can click to "add warmth" to a chilly scene, gradually revealing a cozy, warm indoor picture that features your heater working its magic. Such ads are not only engaging but also communicate the effectiveness of your heater visually and interactively.

4. Weather-Triggered Advertising

Weather-triggered advertising can be incredibly effective for heater sales. Utilize real-time weather data to trigger your ads precisely when the temperature drops in a viewer’s location. This not only increases the relevance of the ad but also highlights the immediate benefit of having a reliable heater.

5. Localized Content

Create ads that resonate with local audiences by referencing local winter events, traditions, or even weather patterns. This personalized approach can make potential customers feel a closer connection to your brand, increasing trust and likability. Tailor ad visuals and copy to different locations to deepen this local appeal.

6. Collaborations with Home Decor Influencers

Collaborate with influencers who specialize in home decor or DIY projects. Influencers can showcase how they integrate your heater into various home styles, demonstrating both the aesthetic appeal and functionality. It provides authenticity to the advertising and reaches the influencer’s dedicated audience.

7. Virtual Showrooms

With many consumers shopping online, create a virtual showroom where customers can see how different heaters look in various room settings. This can help them visualize the product in their own home, making the online shopping experience more interactive and informative.

8. Countdown Deals

Create a sense of urgency and excitement with countdown deals leading up to the coldest months. Offer special promotions that decrease in value as it gets closer to winter, encouraging customers to act quickly. This strategy not only drives immediate sales but also builds momentum as the promotion progresses.

Conclusion

Getting creative with your winter heater advertising is not just about standing out; it’s about connecting with consumers in a meaningful way that resonates with their seasonal needs and preferences. By harnessing the power of storytelling, embracing new digital technologies, and creating interactive and localized content, brands can create effective winter campaigns that warm up consumers’ hearts and homes.

[katebeckctt]

IMDb’s highest rated episodes of SEASON 3 of CASTLE.

[pop-punklouis]

hope - i know you've probably been asked this but what's the craziest thing that the bears did in your opinion? like you knew and thought 'yep, this is definitely lou and harry.'

hmmm craziest was probably this shit where they disappeared on october 20 and had a countdown only to return on october 25 with security guards around their setup in the venue and bright blue and green spotlights on them before the show began like i still can’t believe this was a real image and a real time i experienced lmao

i think the certificate with harry’s obvious handwriting was incredibly in your face

and the way niall snapped his neck so quickly to look at louis during the jingleball interview that even slowing it down to half its speed, niall’s head still moves at normal speed lmao

[comfortscripts]

Let Me Treat You ¬ Bucky B.

Plot - Love wasn't something Bucky had experience in, and as the day of love comes along, you decide to treat him.

Genre - Fluff

Pairing - James Buchanan Barnes x GN!Reader

Notes/Warnings - General fluffiness and that's all. Its a short one to kick us off on the Valentines Countdown

Word Count - 0.6k

“What do you mean you’ve never celebrated?”

A whole-hearted chuckle rang through the kitchen, radiating off the super solider as he poured the final drops of orange juice into the gradient glass. Topless figure highlighted by the soft rays flowing through the open window, making the contortion of his muscles ever prominent with the laughter.

“What do you want me to say, doll? In the 20s, it wasn’t exactly acceptable for an unmarried couple to go out alone, let alone celebration a day such as Valentine’s” One hand tasked with griping your waist as his pearly whites beam down at you, whilst the other cups the glass within, with hope to be resting upon your skin soon.

Shock radiated through your body at the fact of his lack of celebration. Ideas of how to celebrate rattling through your brain as the blue-eyed man admires the wide-eyed gaze splattered across your face, causing him to pause his admiration to continue his explaination. “Not sure I’d like the whole publicity of it. You know I love you everyday, not sure if it’s love if you only express it one day a year”

Eyebrows furrowing to match his words with ideas coming to a halt and changing direction based off the introverted personality of your love. Words escaping your mouth as a respond for the sake of, “Understandable. I want to love you 24/7, not just on Valentine’s day”

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

Stuttered steps rang off the walls as the shadows of the pair encroached closer to the balcony where the delicate radiance of candle-light and star shine fell across the layout. The soothing scent of newly-bloomed flowers danced in the wind, adding a crisp aroma to the subtle waft of stew floating across the air.

Simplicity was key with James, and the layout showed it. A cloth-covered table with a single daring red Camellia centred perfectly between the plates of mouth-watering food from a time gone by. Gentle light illuminating the dinner as the distance bustle of town melted with the soft tones of Artie Shaw.

“And open”

No matter how much he’d experience, or how harden he’d become, the sight of your efforts brought a tear to his crystal eyes. Warmth overflowing within as the super solider analyses every inch of the setup, grin widening with each detail before landing fully on you.

A staggered step towards you, almost cautious as if this was a dream that could flee from his grasp with a small movement, but no, this was reality.

This was his reality, this was his love, this was you.

Arms hanging loosely upon your hips, eyes captured with his adoring orbs and body leaning into his warmth; everything had gone to plan. The love that flowed from the pair of you could have lit up New York with ease, and the admiration Bucky held in his eyes was enough to bring you to your knees.

“This is incredible. How on ea-? Why would you go through all this trouble?”

Hand rising to tenderly cup his stubbled jaw, gentle strokes of your thumb running across his touch-starved skin. “You deserve to experience Valentine’s day in comfort. No crowds, no silly ideas of what day you can love, no fuss; just love and I love you, James Buchanan Barnes.”

As you tip-toe to place a fleeting kiss against the rough of his lips, a quiet whisper falls from your caring lips; “Let me treat you”

[pharmaconferenceandexpo]

Unlock Opportunities: Register as an Exhibitor Today!15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference May 14-16, 2025 | San Francisco, United States

Introduction The countdown has begun for the 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference—a premier event that brings together global innovators, thought leaders, and professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of San Francisco from May 14 to May 16, 2025, this event is a golden opportunity for organizations to showcase their cutting-edge solutions and establish themselves as leaders in the pharmaceutical sector. Why Exhibit at the Digital Pharmaceutical Conference? Exhibiting at this renowned conference offers unparalleled benefits for your business:

Connect with Key Decision-Makers:

Meet industry leaders, executives, and professionals who are shaping the future of the pharmaceutical landscape. This is your chance to build meaningful relationships and form valuable partnerships.

Showcase Innovative Solutions:

The exhibition floor is the perfect platform to demonstrate your products, technologies, or services to a highly targeted audience actively seeking innovative solutions.

Enhance Brand Visibility:

Position your brand as a thought leader in the digital pharmaceutical space. Gain exposure to a diverse audience of attendees from all corners of the globe.

Generate Quality Leads:

With hundreds of attendees from across the pharmaceutical ecosystem, you'll have ample opportunities to engage with potential clients and partners who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer.

Stay Ahead of Industry Trends:

While showcasing your offerings, you'll also gain insights into the latest trends and challenges in the pharmaceutical industry through conference sessions and networking opportunities. Who Should Exhibit? This event welcomes exhibitors from all facets of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, including:

Digital health and technology companies

Clinical trial solution providers

Drug manufacturing and supply chain innovators

Data analytics and AI developers

Regulatory and compliance experts

Marketing and patient engagement platforms

Key Highlights of the Exhibition

Prime Location: The conference venue in San Francisco offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to optimize exhibitor and attendee interactions.

Interactive Booth Options: Customize your booth to create an engaging and memorable experience for visitors.

Networking Opportunities: Take part in exclusive networking sessions, panel discussions, and social events to expand your professional network.

Global Reach: With attendees from across the world, you'll have the chance to connect with international stakeholders and explore new markets.

How to Register as an Exhibitor Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event! Registering as an exhibitor is quick and easy. Here’s how you can secure your spot:

Visit the official conference website.

Navigate to the “Exhibitors” section and complete the online registration form.

Choose your preferred booth location and setup options.

Submit your payment to finalize your registration.

Early Bird Discounts Register before February 15, 2025, to take advantage of exclusive early bird rates. Limited spots are available, so act fast to secure your preferred booth location! Join Us in Shaping the Future The 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference is more than just an event; it’s a gateway to the future of healthcare and innovation. By registering as an exhibitor, you position your organization at the forefront of this dynamic industry. Unlock opportunities, forge connections, and leave a lasting impact. Register as an exhibitor today and be a part of this extraordinary journey.

Conclusion

Here’s a concise and engaging conclusion for your call to action:

"Don't miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your innovations at the 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Conference. Be a part of shaping the future of the pharmaceutical industry. Unlock opportunities—register as an exhibitor today!"

Would you like this adapted further or expanded with additional details?

Register here:

More Information To learn more about the 15th Digital Pharmaceutical Innovations Exhibition & Congress, visit our website or connect with us on social media:

Website: https://utilitarianconferences.com/

Twitter: @UCGConferences

Facebook: Utilitarian Conferences Gathering

https://pharmacy.utilitarianconferences.com/registration

[woodyssoundup]

Year end countdown, showcasing some of my favorite setups from the year! My friend @vinnydiesel95 always shines with his incredible @jtrspeakers and @mcintoshlabs setup! This year moving to the @lgusa 77” CX OLED to give the video side a boost. #soundup #jtrspeakers #mcintoshlabs #mcintosh #lgoled #oled #4k #dolbyvision #hifi #hifiaudio #gamer #gaming #hometheater #music #audiolove #hifiporn https://www.instagram.com/p/CJWRIfXMS-7/?igshid=1gmsjb7xm7dwv