#so pumped for the time jump but that was a lot of info

[blueaerin]

Welcome to the Ravening War!

(or: a primer on the political state of play after Episode 1)

Jacques Tomate thinks he would make the perfect king of Vegetania, but for all his backslapping, he hasn't garnered enough support. While Fructeran nobles support his claim, the Bulbian church says his right to the throne is inconclusive. 

Lord Belvedere Cabbage insists that only Vegetanians can choose the next king. 

Incensed, Tomate rallies Fructeran forces and begins seizing Vegetanian borderlands. Fructeran armies march on Greenhold and try to take the capitol by force. Amangeaux, Karna, and Bishop Charlock are forced to flee. Amangeaux returns to her family in Fructera. 

The Ceresian senate sends troops to support the Vegetanians and they push back the Fructeran armies. However, their war footing upsets the Ceresian people.

Senator Focaccia uses the unrest to become Imperator of Ceresia. Focaccia withdraws his forces from Vegetania and launches an attack at the Meat Lands.

The Dairy Islands rally to support the Meat Lands. The Ceresians are having none of it, and mount a full scale assault on the Dairy Islands.

Candia refuses to go to war and support their allies, the Dairy Islands, leading to the rebellion of House Jawbreaker. 

1190--the entire continent is embroiled in war. 

Welcome to the Ravening War! 

[olomaya]

Get Pumped!

This started as just a simple solution to allow my Sims to work out without a TV, radio or gym equipment present but I’m a fitness nut so I knew I couldn’t stop there. I love working out and am always trying out new workouts or gyms like people try out food or clothes. It’s one of my favorite hobbies IRL so I was happy to try and make more exercise/fitness things for my athletic Sims.

This is the Exercise Mat I previewed a few weeks (months?) ago and I added a few more features like the ability to teach classes and also free weights (dumbbells and kettlebell).

Credit/Thanks: @aroundthesims for the free weights and kettlebell which are hers. I only recategorized them to Sports/Hobbies. Mats and board are EA. Animations by me, Mixamo and EA!

All the info and download link are after the jump, read through it all before downloading!

Exercise Mat:

Sims can do different floor and body weight exercises on the mat, which are skill gated:

Sit ups, squats: Level 2

Push ups, single-leg squats, bicycle crunches: Level 3

Burpees: Level 4

Sims can also stretch which has benefits if you do it before and/or after exercising. 

Stretching before: the Feeling Limber moodlet will prevent your Sim from getting fatigued so long as it is active

Stretching after: the Feeling Limber moodlet will remove soreness if you have it

If there is an instructor mat on the lot, you can assign the mat to the instructor mat so Sims will use it for classes

Instructor Mat: This mat lets Sims who have Athletic skill 5 or higher teach exercise classes. 

Assign Instructor - sets who the instructor will be for the mat

Schedule Class - self-explanatory; select a time a date to host a class

Start Class - if you don’t want to wait, you can start a class now. Instructors will wait 20 sim minutes (tunable) before starting the class to allow interested Sims to join.

Toggle Stereo - requires IP to work, adds a stereo to the instructor mat so you can play music during class

Free Weights:

You can lift dumbbells or kettlebells. That's pretty much it. These guys look super happy about it.

You only need one dumbbell. The other one is a prop which will be created once your Sim starts lifting.

Gym Board:

Check Scheduled Classes

Sign Up for Class (Note: you can't sign up for classes that have no spots available but you can still show up and try to get a spot if there's a no show)

Cancel Sign Up

Cancel Class

Gym Classes:

Instructors can hold Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced gym classes, the difference in difficulty affects the fat/muscle delta, fatigue level and athletic skill gain. The ability to hold different class levels is skill gated at Levels 5, 6 and 7 respectively.

If you schedule a class, the instructor and any Sims that sign up for the class will be pushed to the lot an hour before the class starts. Sims cannot join a class after it starts but if they leave before the class ends, they still get charged.

The cost per person is based on the class level and the instructor’s athletic skill. If you have NRaas Career and the Instructor is in the Trainer skill-based career, they will also earn extra money and the funds will go towards their career advancement.

If there are no spots available, you can still check what time the class is and get information on the class if you want to show up and see if a spot opens up.

If classes are hosted on a non-park community lot, like a gym, 25% of the class fees will go to the venue (the venue owner will receive this if it’s owned).

You can check and sign up for scheduled classes on the gym board object. Instructors can also cancel classes there.

There are two "rewards" available: Top Trainer and Gym Rat. Top Trainers are Sims that have taught at least 20 classes. After achieving that, their classes are worth more and they also keep a larger percentage of the cost per student. Gym Rats are Sims that have taken at least 10 classes after which they get a discount on any other classes afterwards.

Notes: 

My suggestion is to organize the class room like how I have in my photos with the mats horizontal facing the instructor. I'd also space them out more than I did as some of the exercises involve a lot of jumping/moving around but I have small lots so I have to squeeze in as much as I can! With this plus Twin's spin class and yoga mods, I'm going to need a bigger gym!!

The instructor will face whichever mat is first in the list of assigned mats so I would suggest assigning the front center mat first.

You can have multiple instructors/instructor mats on the same lot but an instructor can only be assigned to one mat.

Sims cannot take a class if they don't have more than $400 in their family funds. You can change this if you like but I don't want my broke inactives spending money on gym classes (we have gym at home!)

If Sims are not autonomously joining classes or using the mat, it’s probably because you have too many advertising objects on your lot that are competing with it. You can up the advertising for the mat but it’s already quite high so you just have to figure out how to balance it. The Join Class interaction does advertise fun and social in addition to the standard Athletic Game Object advertising so I would suggest upping that in order to get more attention from Sims.

The animation of Sims picking up/dropping the free weight is kind of wonky. I may try to fix it later.

There’s a collection file for all the objects but you will find all of them under Entertainment/Sporting Goods. Nothing is more expensive than 150 simoleons.

This is set for YA+ because a) some of the animations will sink for teens and b) they are always trying to do their fucking homework around each other while I'm holding classes and it drove me crazy. You can change the ITUN if you want teens to use it but you've been warned.

Future updates: I'm already thinking about using a similar system to create dance classes. Making an active Dancer career is something I’ve wanted for a while and I have a Sim that would be perfect to test it.

As always, if you run into any issues, let me know!

Download here | Alt: Simblr

What I originally wanted to name this mod 😭😭

[bugsandboos]

cannot stop thinking of chat noir having a spam tiktok.

we talk a lot abt lb and cn having official twitter accounts, but imagine chat making a tt where he's not verified and just posts the funniest shit. ppl try to keep it a secret, so if you stumble upon him it's usually by chance.

i can picture him forcing ladybug to make tiktok dances with him, making thirst traps/capcut edit templates of his bugaboo bc he loves her soooo much, taking a video from his pov jumping around paris in 2x speed with subway surfers music in the background, etc etc.

basically the whole miraculous team endorses it except ladybug and is determined to make chat viral (which usually works). rena is always the most eager to make videos w him bc she's so used to acting professional on the ladyblog, so it gives her the chance to loosen up. chaos ensues every time they pump out content together.

chat also enjoys commenting under random videos as most people don't realize it's him until they go to his account. he'll comment "real" under vids trashing him but will go ABSOLUTELY FERAL under any videos trashing ladybug. i'm talking starting full on wars in the comments. he basically comments like duolingo's official tiktok acc (iykyk) and is chronically online, whatever that may mean.

not to mention HIS REPOSTS. they're either super funny or reveal serious chat noir lore. varies from "me when she doesn't want me😍😍😍" and "is it too much to ask for a life as a cat bathing in the sun with belly scratches" to "hearing 'i'm so proud of you' from a man that's not my father🥰🥰" and "how it feels having a father that lives down the hallway but is absent in your life". that typa stuff.

when ladybug eventually stalks his account and finds his reposts she LOSES IT. she doesn't even care that he revealed personal info to his 300k followers because HER KITTY IS IN DISTRESS. AND HE HAS A FATHER. THAT MUST BE STRANGLED. WITH HER YOYO.

but that is a story for another day.

[shutupheathersorryheatherr]

“Morning, baby"

summery: a short keeho fic about the morning after sleeping together. Centered around his deep voice that he apparently has lol cause I didn’t know about it

warnings/info: suggestive, talking about “the night before” where keeho and reader had sex, gn! Reader, mentions of keehos fingers inside of reader (not specified where lol), it’s basically all centered around keehos deep voice @jasminexox5 sent a clip of to me a little bit ago, kissing, LOTS of kissing, hastily edited

•••••••••••••••••••

You rolled over, the comforter slipping down from your shoulders in the process and your eyes fluttering open. You were just in your underwear and a tee shirt, having hastily grabbed the first from the floor next to his bed the night before.

The night before... yes, the night where you both came undone around each other, wrapped in each other. Your hand unconsciously came up to your neck. The part he marked up and kissed the night before. God, his kisses. On your neck, on your stomach, on your thighs. Soft and wet, making you writhe in your place and grip the pillow he gave you for the night

His fingers is what you can't get out of your head next, seeing them next to his head as he lays there looking like an angel. A large contrast to last night when he had them curled and pumping in and out of you. That was one of the many times last night he had you begging for more of him. Those fucking fingers, you mentally scoffed.

At that time you wanted noting more than to have them in your mouth again, sucking on them as a show-- a precursor if you will, to what you wanted to do to him again. Just like last night. Making one beg for the other was each of your kryptonite. Having him where he struggles to keep his hands to himself made you want to remake last night all over again. This time with the morning light streaming in from the cracks in his curtains that made his face have that beautiful glow you loved to see so much.

that was another thing: the beautiful feature that rested perfectly in the middle of his sleeping face. His nose, to you, could not be described by means of words alone. It perfectly captures every word describing something beautiful you could think of. Sat perched tall and proud on his face, like it knew of its worth. You told Keeho a lot about how you thought his nose was so pretty, too. It seemed like you could never stop. Others might think you were overreacting. It was just a nose, right? But once you found another thing about him that made you feel all sorts of ways-- your stomach jumping with the overwhelming need for him to bring you to orgasm, the warm feeling it gave you when he pressed it into your neck while hugging you, the list could go on. But that was something worth rambling about, right?

you You sighed contently. You knew you'd have to wake him up soon. The both of you would have to get your days started sooner or later. But, as always, it seemed like he read your mind before you got the chance to say what you were thinking. His eyes blink open a few times, mimicking you a few moments ago. Or maybe it was an hour ago. Who really cared? He sparked a lot of thoughts, and all his face made you wanna do was look at it some more. You could spare a few more minutes searching and memorizing how his knuckles curved or how his pretty nose twitched in his sleep. In fact, you were sure if your boss knew what he looked like he'd let you off the hook for being late because you spent too much time taking him in and basking in his presence. That was, if you were late. Which could have very well happened if the man didn't open his eyes so soon.

You smiled as he blinked sunlight and sleep out of his eyes, your thoughts of how good he made you feel the night before dissipating from your head entirely and replaced with thoughts of him, him, him. A smirk graced his facial features as he realized you staring at him. "Morning, baby." He said, his voice surprising you. You'd heard it time and time again before, but its contrast to how he usually speaks will never fail to surprise you. It was deep and darker in tone, thicker. resembling dense wood

Well, now you were really definitely wide awake. It seamed to enchant you, flashing images of him in your mind like bright lights. You've thought about him in many ways, but not because of this. He seemed to noticed. Not clearing his throat when he said, "What? you seem a little off. Did you sleep ok?" You nodded, not really trusting yourself to speak, not knowing if you wanted to respond or not. You didn't even want to think of what him talking in that voice again would do to you. You smiled to yourself at your boyfriends antics.

He leans forward, nuzzling his nose into your exposed neck, huffing out a puff of air there. His fingers commence a shiver-up-the-spine-causing dance across your shoulders, rubbing them gently. You sigh into his hair, relaxing again, thinking that maybe he'd just get up. Thinking that maybe, just maybe you were out of the woods that was his thick as tree canopies voice. "Does that feel good, baby?" Keeho asked. That fucker. He knew exaclty what he was doing. You could see it in his eyes. In the way his lips curved up in a way that made your head spin even more.

“hm? You alright? You seem nervous?” He asked, “am I going too hard?” You shook your head. Another wordless answer as his fingertips dancing long your skin, making your hairs raise, and voice thick as slow dripping molasses makes your head spin. "Words, please." He chuckles. And although it's a simple request, thats when you cannot possibly take any more of it. Of him being so fucking-- You don't even know. Was it agrivating you? Or was it simply only turning you on too much then you'd ever thought a voice and a shoulder massage would.

You deemed it to be a mixture of both. Whatever it was, you didn't care. You flip your body around to the man behind you, causing his nimble fingers that you craved to fall off your shoulders and drop to your sides. Not exactly where you wanted them right now, but it'll have to do. They were pretty close to it anyways. Although he smiles, he still seems surprised-- confused, even, by your actions.

"Whoa, baby. What're you--" You could only provide him with a a simple, two word answer. One whispered so quietly even the sun peaking in from between your curtains would've have heard it. Not the extra blanket that had been kicked onto the floor while the both of you were sleeping, not his tee-shirt thrown off in a haste the evening before and then long forgotten. Noting and Nobody. "Want you." You breathed against his lips before diving in. "Now." You pulled apart with a whine, not wanting to leave that beautiful soft feeling of his lips. "That can be aranged." He smiled. Then pulled you against him as he laid down on the sheets, causing you to land on top of him. You sighed contently, feeling that the plushness of his lips swallowing yours whole in a needy kiss as his hands started to roam your body.

End ~~~~~~~~~~~

thank ya'll for reading!! please leave a comment and/or a reblog if you liked this! :) I got the individual pics from Pinterest by the way!

©️2023copywrightforshutupheathersorryheathr

[starlightsuffered]

Subby Bunny

Info - mommy kink, shy Timothée, edging, sexy bunny outfit, over the clothes stuff, sub Timmy, pegging, nursing handjob, mentioning cumming a lot, handjob during sex, baby talk, praise kink

He was so hot. His cheeks were bright red. He wore a slutty latex bunny outfit and a headband with fluffy ears.

"Here's your drink," he said in a quiet voice.

"Why so blushy bunny?" I asked, dragging a hand down his body.

"I-l've just never seen someone so pretty in my entire life," he said in a small voice.

"Awwwww, bunny, how sweet. You're very beautiful as well," I winked.

"Thank you mommy," he said dreamily and then squeaked and covered his mouth and dashed away.

I asked for him the next day too. He was still very shy. This time I referred to myself as mommy so he would know I hadn't been offended.

The smile he got when I called myself mommy was adorable. He was biting his lip and his cheeks were blushy from praise. I gave him my number at the end of the night.

I'd been sending him teasing texts and semi-nudes to get him excited. His reactions were adorable. He was always so surprised.

"Would you wanna come over?" The text hung there. The longer the answer took to come, the more scared I got. jumped when the knock sounded on the door.

I went to get the door. To my surprise it was Timothée. He was standing shyly in his bunny outfit. I grabbed his collar and yanked him into my house.

"You're so damn sexy," I growled into his mouth. I kissed him feverishly and rubbed his cock over the latex. He was whimpering into my lips.

"M-mommy," he whined. "A-are you going to fuck bunny?"

"Absolutely," I said and squeezed his cock. He groaned and let out a few panting breaths. He was steadying himself against the wall.

"I-l've cum three times today thinking of you. Why are my balls still heavy?" He asked desperately.

"Because you're such a good boy," I told him.

"Oh!" He gasped at the praise. He tugged on his balls needily.

"Will mommy help me get my stickies out," he asked meekly.

"Yes darling," I said and kissed his nose. I was pulling him up the stairs excitedly. I pushed him harshly against the wall and kissed him again. His cock was hard against my thigh. I moved back and took off my clothes.

His eyes were glued to my form. He was biting his lip. His pretty green eyes were wide.

"You like mommy's body bunny?" | asked. He wagged his head up and down quickly.

"I love it, I love it so much. I can't believe I really get to touch you," he sighed. He stumbled forward.

"You wanna suck on mommy's nipples?" I asked.

"Oh mommy please," he said needily. I went over and sat on the bed. I opened my arms and he ran over. I cradled him in my arms. He massaged my breast and rubbed his nose on my nipple.

"I wanna suck so bad," he said, voice shaky with lust.

"Let me get your cock out bunny, and then you can suckle all you want," I cooed. I pulled his cock out of the suit.

"So leaky bunny," I giggled.

"I'm so wet for you mommy, my thingy can't stop leaking," he said. His hips bucked upwards a couple times.

"Ahhhhhh, I can't help but fuck the air. Mommy I'm so horny," he gasped. I gripped his cock and began to pump him quickly.

"Ahhh! Mm, mmm, f-fuck! Mommy, oh mommy, feels so good!" He whimpered.

"Settle yourself down by sucking," | coaxed him. He buried his face in my breast. He was suckling wildly. He was fucking my hands, his hips not stilling for a second.

"Such a pretty boy, and so obedient," | crooned. He was smiling on my nipple.

"Such a good big cock for mommy. So pretty and thick," | praised him.

"Look at this pretty pink head," I said and I used the pad of my thumb to rub his slit. Now I used a single finger to go up and down his cock.

"Mommy, please more, more mommy," he begged.

"Why, are you close?" I asked.

"Uh huh," he whined. I dropped his cock and pushed him off my lap.

"Mommy," he pouted.

"I want to edge you so you cum everywhere," I purred.

"Oh mommy," he moaned, eyes rolling back in his head.

"Get up," I chuckled. I pushed him down on the bed. I straddled him. I slipped his leaking cock inside me.

"Mommy's pussy!" He squealed. I began to bounce.

"Oh! Oh! Oh! Mommy, my thingy! He's never been this hard!" Timothée wailed.

"You're so stiff bunny. You're such a good baby for mommy," I crooned.

"I want to be a good boy for mommy. Need to be a perfect sub for mommy, for my goddess," he gasped.

"You are such a good boy," I said and ran my fingers through his hair. He whimpered desperately. His hands lifted to massage my breasts.

"Th-they're so big and bouncy mommy. I love them so much," he shuddered.

"They're for you bunny. Mommy's suckies are all for you," I said, and bent down so he could suck. He did so greedily. His lips were smacking.

"Mommy, I wanna be a good boy, so I wanna tell you I'm close," he said pitifully.

"Your stickies are building?" I asked, slowing my hips.

"Yes," he said shyly.

"To finish I'm going to fuck your ass. Does mommy own your ass?" I asked.

"Mommy owns all of me," he said with bright red cheeks. "My hole is a virgin, but I want you to have it."

"Such a good boy," I said gently. I got my double sided strap. I pushed it inside me. I came and positioned myself between his legs. I lubed up my cock.

"You gonna take mommy's cock?" I asked. "Gonna be a good bunny and take mommy's big cock?"

"Pound my hole mommy," he pleaded. I shoved my strap into his hole.

"Oh fuck me!" He squealed. I began to thrust my hips.

"Oh your cock is so deep inside me! Ohhhhh fuck! It feels so good!" He whined.

"Do you want mommy to pump your cock?" I asked him.

"Mommy yes, please, touch me mommy," he said, hands clasped together. I took his big cock and worked him hard. I was lost in pleasure. The strap went deep inside me, and Timothée's moans sent thrills through me.

"Mommy, mommy, I'm going to burst!" He warned.

"Let go, coat us in cum," | demanded. He wailed and arched upward. Ropes of cum shot from his cock. The scene was so sexy that I was flung into orgasm. I moaned and my walls squeezed the toy.

"Mommy, mommy, mommy!" He whimpered over and over as the cum kept flowing. He had shot eleven ropes of cum. I bent down and kissed his nipples and then the head of his cock.

"Mommy, I don't think I can move," he whimpered. "You fucked the life out of me."

[miz-orque]

Long Post

Sooo here's my silly little Monsoon concept in the Cyberpunk universe. This took some time, but I had a lot of fun doing it. You'll find a few things repeated on paper as my thought process was a little all over the place. The notes and layout on the pages may be a little unorganised. What's written on paper is reflected in the text, plus extra.

Yeah, this is longer than I thought lol so it's really appreciated if you do take the time to read it. I think I went a little ham 👀;

Apologies for image quality. I still have yet to get a scanner.

Cyberpunk!Monsoon.

General info

Typically, I would fashion him in: an Edgerunner's jacket (which is generally a mix of military armour and pedestrian materials woven together (this jacket is the Valentinos dual-weave Edgerunner)), simple black yoros and yoru no samurai kicks - the last two items being reminiscent of his ninja design in his canon universe. His utility belt and sais are also kept the same, tho the end of the sai's pommel glows when in use for combat.

He has a multitude of implants and cybernetics which include:

Memory boost - optimises sync between the brain and cyberware. An additional neuro chip implanted in his frontal lobe allows him full control of his unique cybernetic arms, including detaching and reattaching his arms, and control of his hands if they are several metres away when detached.

Self-ice - prevents him from getting a neuro virus.

Kerenzikov boost system - essentially a reflex booster

Custom Kiroshi optics: the Oracle (more details of this later)

(outdated) magnetic segmented cybernetic arms where each segment has a neuro link for full control (more details of this later)

Second heart - if his current heart stops beating, the second one activates.

Adrenal boosters - helps body maintain performance under pressure (in game stats detail less stamina usage when engaging in melee)

Micro rotors - increases attack speed

Adreno-trigger - increases attack speed for several seconds whe entering combat

Synaptic accelerator - a neuroprocessor that regulates hormonal balance during threatening situations (in game time is perceived slower for a few seconds when in combat. This implant can be used repeatedly after a 60 second cool down, but he's not looking to have a fight for longer than a minute)

Sub-dermal armour - exactly as it sounds - armour beneath the skin. He has this installed on his neck, torso, back and legs (before they were replaced)

Proxi-shield - the closer an attacking enemy is, the less damage they deal

Bionic joints (eventually replaced) - support of joints. He had this in his legs.

Dense marrow (eventually replaced) - increased power behind melee attacks. He had this in his legs

Dermal implant of a Tyger Claw tattoo - This implant directly links the user's optical implant to the weapon's system, offering real-time data-tracking of the weapon info - he only has this because he was a member of Tyger Claws for a few years, but he decided to keep it as he found it useful and for sentimental reasons

Fortified ankles (eventually replaced) - allows for greater distance covered when jumping

Iron lungs - is able to take in and utilise more oxygen. This was useful when he had his organic legs. This cybernetic has become rather redundant to him now that he's more metal than meat, tho he finds it useful for when he's smoking, he doesn't cough, however they're due for a cleaning from his habit.

Blood pump - supplies body's cells quickly and efficiently with oxygen - again no longer required. He eventually gets this removed

Further info

In this canon, Monsoon has albinism. His original eyes were replaced at a young age due to his poor vision and he received dermal implants to protect his sensitive skin from UV radiation.

Originally, his cyber optics were designed after his real eyes. These were standard optics that allowed him to see as the average person. The eyes were later replaced with Kiroshi the Oracle optics when he was recognised as a competent attack dog. These new eyes, however, were again based on his real eyes. He did not obtain his custom black and red optics until he joined Tyger Claws

The Oracle line allows the user to detect enemies (even under cover) within 17 m, turrets and cameras within 35 m and explosives and traps within 26 m, as well as 10x optical zoom in. He later got these functions upgraded when he opted to change their appearance. They were eye wateringly expensive.

The cyber threading on his face (the lines) are based on the veins surrounding his eyes in his original MGR concept art.

Likewise, the barcode on his forehead from his original concept, has been repurposed as evidence of being an unfortunate victim of human trafficking. Human trafficking exists across the globe in the Cyberpunk (CP) universe. The barcode that was tattooed on his forehead as a child was produced for the underground market to audit their stock. These markets are also owned by corporations who donate some of the profit made to charities (to look good to the general public), to law makers (for manipulation) and to crime syndicates (as pay).

As previously stated, Monsoon obtained custom black and red Kiroshi optics when he joined Tyger Claws. He thought they looked intimidating and cool. He was 15. And he still stands by this decision in his 40s. The black and red are also based on his MGR concept art.

For the record, Monsoon's unique eyes and visor in his original MGR concept design are some of my favourite things about him. Respectfully, these were omitted as I felt they didn't completely suit the environment I placed him in for this au. Sure, visors exist in CP, and of course there are characters like the Maelstrom group and even River (2077) that have robust optics, however:

Monsoon in this canon doesn't work as a corpo cyborg based in Denver with henchborgs under him; he is the henchborg and he's really fucking good at it

His visor holds his electromagnetic generator. In this canon, he doesn't have the ability to separate his entire body, just his arms. It would be redundant for him to have it unless he wears it for the aesthetics. I'm on team Practical Monsoon here so...

Maelstrom essentially believe in transhumanism. Monsoon does not believe in this (him becoming a cyborg in MGR is a consequence of him not wanting to die) and the glowing eyes would give his position away if he's being stealthy.

I think River's too broke to get a better looking eye lol. Monsoon may not be rolling in it, but at least he can afford eyes that provide wider perioral vision and allows him to blink his eyelids.

I just wanted to show off the emotions in his eyes. Can't do that if he's looking like: ⚫👃⚫ "I luv u"

I've designed him bulbous eyeball connecting visors that help increase his field of vision to act as his CP au visor. (A little on the fence with this)

Regarding his arms, their design is outdated. Further information will be provided later in the post, tho I thought I'd keep this here as this was used as reference for myself.

Ken doll Mons and his bs (backstory obvs)

Born in 2031 in Cambodia, Monsoon grew up in poverty. He was abducted as a young child and sold in the black market to an organised crime syndicate. Originally, he was going to be used as an actor for the growing extreme braindance (XBD) market, however, due to his aggressive and tenacious nature, he was taken to be trained as an attack dog instead.

Mention of a several years' mission is present, but this will be touched upon later. The two images are of Monsoon before and after this mission.

Pre-mission:

Most of his body is organic, tho he has a number of internal implants (as mentioned previously)

As stated, unlike his original canon design, the additional segments are omitted. Due to CP lore, and considering Monsoon's upbringing, he would have succumb to cyberpsychosis ages ago (would have gone on a spree like James Norris in Edgerunners). A super bog standard definition of cyberpsychos is a condition where the person dissociates from society when they have too many implants and not a great support system (if they even have one). (It's a theory that David's support system is the reason why his tolerance for something as extreme as his sandevistan was high). If the chassis was kept, I would have had to abide by this rule; Monsoon at this point would have been a slender version of Adam Smasher. (Not a bad idea, but that's literally what he is in MGR but with MG lore in place). Omitting his chassis meant that there was more freedom to explore the world of CP with Monsoon. Also I wanted to see him in sneakers.

Also, his design wouldn't suit the Night City (NC) environment. In his original canon, he's the only WoD member that isn't wearing a coat. In NC, he would need to be naked to fully utilise his abilities. Not to mention, the city itself being so busy, I feel as if his magnetism would cause some damage to certain technology, if his segments don't catch onto a vehicle or a building or a fellow cyborg's butt. If anything, reference of his original design (torso and legs) would be for cosmetic purposes.

Post-mission:

He lost his pelvis and legs during the mission

As he was out in the desert at the time of this incident, his legs were replaced with robust mechanical legs provided by a nomad ripperdoc.

His legs were later replaced with a sleeker and more modern design. He also got that Mr Studd installed 😉

His cyber legs also include reinforced tendons (can literally double jump/jump great heights), Jenkin's tendons (accelerates sprinting for a few seconds - recovery time is just as quick when he's not sprinting), fortified ankles (jump great distances) and lynx paws (quiet footsteps). These are to mimic some of the attributes he has in his original canon.

His cyber arms are eventually replaced with an upgraded and custom pair.

He has cyberpsychosis. Treatment includes therapy, medication and being around his support system regularly. Of course, due to the nature of his work, slaughter does help relieve the aggression he gets from his psychosis.

After being sold to an organised crime syndicate to become an XBD actor, his aggressive nature had them think he would be better suited as a protector. He was repurposed to become an attack dog. For fun, he was given a pair of sais to train with, tho his mentor was compassionate enough to train him well. Tho he was born in Cambodia and spent his early childhood there, he was migrated to Japan after being sold. He spent the rest of his childhood serving the Yakuza as their favoured attack dog. From 15, he was stationed at Night City, being a body guard for a high ranking Yakuza member, but he decided to join Tyger Claws instead.

Additional notes:

The crime syndicates involved are primarily a mix of Triad and Yakuza members, smaller groups and groups outside of Asia are also involved, taking advantage of the state of Cambodia (it's not great). Particular corps are also involved and it's rumoured the Khmer Rouge may also be poking their noses into this black market (they exist in the CP universe. Like in our real world history, they did have their influence, however they were expelled from Cambodia and ended up ruling over Laos in the turn of the 21st century) in hind sight, Monsoon was pretty lucky

He was sold at the age of five.

The XBD market involves things like murder, torture, sexual assault - basically any instance that involves very extreme negative emotions (and is obvs very illegal). Monsoon would have likely been put up for murder and maybe even have cyberpsychosis induced on him

The Yakuza viewed Monsoon as disposable, but thought to have him at least trained in fighting. When his teacher taught him how to use the sai (which he picked up quickly), the members he often interacted with saw his potential. On the field, Monsoon was aggressive.

He was named Monsoon because he was purchased during the season. The name stuck because of his extreme behaviours: eerily calm when he's not in a fight, frightfully violent when he is.

His first implant were his eyes. The following cybernetics were implanted on him without his knowledge ie he woke up one day with his hand replaced with a cybernetic one lol. He freaked

When he arrived in Night City, he offed the Yakuza member he was meant to protect and joined Tyger Claws swiftly after. It was rumoured that this particular was to be disposed of once a negotiation with affiliate groups was made. Monsoon didn't care and killed him anyway. He's never forgiven them for what they did to him.

Because of his upbringing, he speaks Japanese fluently. Being the favoured attack dog, he wasn't required to learn any additional languages, especially with the advent of the translator, however, he did take up learning English when he learned he was going to visit California for an unknown amount of time. Much to his chagrin of learning the common conversational sentences English, when he arrived at Night City, particularly Japantown, he was disappointed that everyone around him was speaking Japanese. That didn't stop him from actively learning tho. Unfortunately, he doesn't remember much Khmer if at all.

The crummy tattoo dermal implant on his back depicts Reahu, the demon king in Cambodian mythology. It's described to be a head without a body and devours the sun and moon, but because of its lack of body (and therefore stomach), it's a perpetual cycle of devouring these celestial bodies.

His stoic and serious nature proved him to be a valuable member to the Tyger Claw gang, getting some recognition from high ranking members, including a glance or two from the up-and-coming fixer, Wakako Okada. He was given a few private jobs, one of which awarded him his extraordinarily unique magnetic arms at around the age of 18. Tho his peers didn't care for the attention he received, a small group of Tyger Claws grew jealous of him, even denouncing him as a member for being an outsider.

During a mission out, the small group turned on him, disabling his arms and taking advantage of his shock. He did defend himself to the best of his abilities, however, he was outnumbered and beaten to near death. Before completely blacking out, he called Wakako.

Once recovered and his arms repaired, he left Tyger Claws and sought vengeance on those that tried to kill him. No longer a member, he happily attacks any member that so much as looks at him funny.

Additional notes:

His position in the gang would have been pretty much the same in his original canon. He did participate in some drug dealing and trafficking, however he enjoyed fighting the most.

He was out cold for a couple days when he was picked up by Wakako and taken care of by a doctor of her choosing

Monsoon was growing tired of the gang anyway and thought he would be successful if he left. The group that attacked him provided him a really good reason to leave

He wanted to remove the Tyger Claws tattoo on his back, but decided against it as he gave it a new meaning: continuously devouring the clan

It's an exaggeration to say that he attacks any TC member if they look at him funny. He attacks them if they touch him in any way, shape or form.

Despite the fact he was a member for about five years, he has never crossed paths with Jimmy. Jimmy was locked away being a cringe teenager editing edgy braindances and wearing black eyeliner.

Ze arms

Gifted his magnetic arms at 18, adapting to fully cybernetic arms was a challenge, especially with the unique ability to desegment at will. Tho they are rumoured to be of Arasaka make, his provider advised it was from an underground yet promising corporation.

Previous arms

Neural connection between brain, arms and segments.

Powerful electromagnetism, however best performed away from the busier parts of Night City

Electromagnetic generator located in shoulder joint.

Silicone connection inside and outside of elbow.

Upper half of arm matches skin tone. Forearms and hands are black (right) and red (left).

Palm and fingertips padded; sensors are quite sensitive

Range began at 10 metres, but increased to 15 when his arms were repaired

New and current arms

Possess the same elements as the previous arms, but with a sleek design

Arms are completely black apart from the left forearm and hand being red.

Generator hidden in shoulder

Fingertips have highly sensitive sensors

Edge of segments glow red when in use (when he gets his magnet on)

Carbon fibre material

Faster movement

Range is about 30 metres max.

Additional notes:

The arms are quite expensive. He has to visit a reputable doctor that is well educated in electromagnetics and whatever the fuck else his arms possess because they're pretty insane

It took him a good month to get used to using fully cybernetic arms and even long to actually master the use of its magnetic abilities. He would say about a year.

The underground corporation used both Arasaka and Militech to craft the arms. Monsoon's unknowingly a guinea pig, however he does eventually meet the people behind these.

Said people provided him with the new arms

He exclusively uses his magnetic abilities in combat. At least, that's what he says. Monsoon has used his abilities to get something out of reach, get something from another room, and trip Jimmy (when he didn't like him) - now he uses them to pull Jimmy towards him

Sundowner

Monsoon became a solo mercenary after he left Tyger Claws. Mainly working with Wakako, he would sometimes do gigs with other solos. More often than not, he would find himself working alongside this heavyweight merc, Sundowner. At first, he found him to be rather loud and obnoxious, but eventually he found him to be a worthy and competent ally to the point he's glad to see him in his group of mercs.

Additional notes:

They met for the first time during a meeting with a fixer at Tom's Diner. Monsoon mistook him for a patron as Sundowner was chowing down on a burger and commenting loudly about the music. He wasn't particularly excited to learn that he would be working alongside him for this mission

They only ever hang out at bars or eating establishments, and the occasional visit to a braindance club.

Okay, maybe sometimes they visit Dogtown for the thrill and chaos

Monsoon's been to Sundowner's humble abode once for bbq. It's in the Badlands

They once infiltrated a Scavs base because Sundowner thought one of them stole his keys to his truck. They killed them all. They did not find his keys because he suddenly remembered where they were kept.

They once got into a random scuffle with Sixth Street

And the Voodoo Boys

And the Valentinos

And the Animals

And Tyger Claws (Monsoon enjoyed that one)

All started by Sundowner.

Sundowner is gun heavy in this universe, only using Bloodlust when he wants to get messy, but keep his hands clean.

Of course, Sundowner has the Gorilla Arms cybernetic that grants him immense strength as well as the Reinforced Tendons implants

Coming from Alabama, Monsoon's not quite familiar with the terms Sundowner uses that isn't Night City lingo. Sometimes he uses his translator which isn't the most reliable due to Sundowner's accent. He did eventually grow accustomed to his way of speaking

Sundowner most definitely did partake in the Corporate War of 2069.

Sun became a fan of Jimmy's unnecessarily violent XBD edits

The above drawings are of them in their twenties

Legs and mission

The mission

At around 25 years old, Monsoon with Sundowner was given a secret gig by their mysterious fixer. Like most gigs, survival was not guaranteed, however, the payout for this gig was huge if they did survive. This gig involved them and a small group of other mercs, techies and netrunners to travel outside Night City across the country. The mission was so secretive, contact outside anything that did not revolve around the mission was forbidden, this meant that kin were left in the dark about the whereabouts of their loved ones.

The gig proved challenging; some members lost their lives. Monsoon almost lost his life being involved in an incident that had him lose the lower half of his body. He carried out the rest of the mission in a set of robust cybernetic legs that included storage for his stoma bags. The difficulty of this mission did solidify and strengthen his friendship with Sundowner.

After the mission, which ended up lasting five years, and of course receiving his massive payout, Monsoon got himself a new set of legs, a built in bladder, rectum and a Mr Studd (with Jimmy's assistance). He also developed cyberpsychosis which is handled by his medication, therapy sessions and time spent with loved ones.

Additional notes:

The payout was six digits

The mission itself was arduous. Flat lining tended to be the bulk of the mission, tho the men would argue it felt like an underground war. Really, it was corpo shit trying to keep governments outside of their business. Infiltration and assassination proved more difficult than initially thought, especially when theft of technologies was involved

Monsoon did find it difficult to not get in contact with the people he cared about during his gig. He obviously worried about Jimmy the most because he's a danger magnet. He forced him to get the Shock-n-Awe implant as a means of defence, but he also told Jimmy not to wait for him.

Monsoon's lower body was crushed by a massive structure that collapsed after a bomb went off.

He often wrapped cloth tightly around his abdomen to keep his storma attachments extra secure. The last time he didn't have that security, he dookied on Sundowner when he tried to parkour. They still laugh about it.

He lost his legs about two years into the mission

His psychosis developed rather quickly when his legs were swiftly replaced with robust cybernetic legs.

He was fully prepared for Jimmy to have moved on. Much to his surprise, he waited for him and started gaining immense success in his work.

He also learned he became a cat dad

Ze legs and pelvis

His replacement legs right after the accident were standard metal robotic legs that helped him get around, tho it hindered his athletic abilities. He was happy to have them finally replaced with a more competent model. These legs include:

Matching skin tone

Sensors included that allows him to detect pressure, temperature changes and pain

A faux butt with padding

A Mr Studd that acts similarly to a natural penis - of course he misses his real one, but he's glad he can pee out of this one and relieve sexual need. Special sensors in the phallus connected to a specific neural link allows him to feel aroused when stimulated and lead to an eventual climax, of course it's not the same as it once was. His sex drive is also quite low.

Faux testes included for aesthetic purposes - they look and feel almost like the real thing! 😃 A TRT device was considered to be included in his pair, but he opted to take injections whenever he wanted to. He doesn't think the lack of testosterone hinders his abilities to carry out his duties as a merc. Before he changed his legs, he wasn't on testosterone regularly.

Reinforced tendons, Jenkin's tendons and Lynx paws installed

Height increased from 6'2" to 6'5" - he had a high calorie and nutritional diet due to being trained as a fighter, however, that isn't to say he didn't receive painful procedures to increase his height to appear more intimidating

Has replacement organs with sensors

Artificial butthole works fine 👍 (don't lie, you were curious)

He takes rather strong immunoblockers

Additional notes:

Jimmy paid for some of the costs. He insisted.

Recovery was relatively quick, tho he had to take the time to get used to his new legs and make sure sensors worked well.

Jimmy's aware of Monsoon's cyberpsychosis. It kinda turns him on. And he loves to admit it.

....yeah Jimmy did select the junk to be Monsoon's replacement sausage

Khamsin

During a few of his gigs, he had Khamsin as his "wheels guy". His chatter and loud music gets on Monsoon's gears, but Sundowner like Khamsin, plus he's an excellent driver. Most of the time, Monsoon zones out when he's around Khamsin, but with enough drinks, he'll chuckle at a joke or two.

Additional notes:

Khamsin's truck looks better than how I drew it. I'm just bad at drawing vehicles

Khammy also has cybernetic legs

Mons doesn't hate him, but he wouldn't invite him to his place

Sometimes he gets taunt ideas from Khamsin

Mistral

Monsoon has been a well established solo when he met the young and snarky woman who goes by Mistral. Tho she's solo, she also dabbles in netrunning, proving her versatility. At first the two didn't get on so well. She taunted him about being an old fogie, and he retorted her about being a naïve and obnoxious little girl with pink hair, even tho their age difference is approximately 15 years.

Sundowner kept wanting her on the team despite the bickering as the group worked well together and he enjoyed her accent. When the group finally did decide to hang out together at a bar, Monsoon and Mistral bonded over their annoyance with Khamsin and their love for Jimmy. As the two got closer, Mistral gifted Monsoon a couple of sakura hair clips she won at a fair. He invited her to his place to see his cat.

Additional notes

Mistral's married to Courtney lol. Courtney's a corpo, but they hardy spend time together due to their work

Mistral's a fan of Jimmy's XBDs.

She's visited their place multiple times and has designated herself as their cat's aunt

Monsoon loves the hair clips, even tho he doesn't express this out loud

She's a gun user - I'm basing this off her time as a soldier, plus I'm not sure where her lance fits in the CP universe. The geckos would be more like her and Courtney's freak children than her tools

Monsoon does not like her freak children

Weirdly, her and Jimmy became good friends. They text each other on a regular basis

She also hangs out with the two if Courtney's busy with work

She playfully throws things at Monsoon. Monsoon draws on her face when she's netrunning

She came to Night City directly from Algeria. She misses the food there

Fighting

Monsoon's fighting style is more or less identical to the original canon moveset, save for his lack of magnetic segmented legs and torso. When he had his natural legs, he utilised reflex implants to boost speeds and force behind his kicks. Now that he has his cybernetic legs, he's even more dangerous in a fight. He has implants that increase his resistance to hacking. His arms can be disassembled by skilled hackers, a hell of a disadvantage if he's using his sais to attack from a distance. He carries a multitude of grenades with him which includes explosives, EMPs and smoke grenades.

Outfit

Monsoon dresses in kitsch style clothing. His wardrobe consists mainly of vests and short sleeves, and perhaps five pairs of bottoms. As he's often doing gig work (and beating up Tyger Claws), he favours no sleeves for their practically and ease of wear. He does own at least a handful of long sleeve shirts, bombers and hoodies which he wears on special occasions, such as when he doesn't want to use his magnetic abilities.

Additional notes

He owns a couple neokitsch style clothing (clothing that only the wealthy can afford) because Jimmy likes to spoil him. He only ever wears them when he's visiting Embers

Jimmy likes stealing his jackets and hoodies.

Monsoon on occasion wears Jimmy's jacket to feel like a villain - Jimmy doesn't take offence to this.

Monsoon wears his clothes until they fall apart. It annoys Jimmy because he knows he can afford new clothes.

He also hates going clothes shopping with Jimmy

Apartment

His apartment is located in Japantown, Westbrook of Night City. He keeps the apartment clean and free of clutter, the only decorations he has are books/magazines and a dragon statue that holds incense (came with the apartment). Eventually, his apartment transformed into a lively little abode when Jimmy entered his life. After becoming accustomed to the company, the apartment now includes horror movie posters, memory chips dotted everywhere, cute little momentos, cans of Spunky Monkey in the fridge, an additional toothbrush, additional clothes in the wardrobe, sex toys and numerous Polaroid photographs of the two.

Additional notes:

Sometimes they use each other's toothbrush by mistake

He has a plethora of plants. He likes nature. Jimmy's a little freaked out by the plants especially when they touch him

He doesn't smoke in the apartment

[waffles-art-writing]

One Hell Of A First Mission - Task Force 141!Platonic x F!Reader - JOKER

Summary: The very first mission you (JOKER) go on with Task Force 141, you end up clearing a house and finding the one person you need to find wasn’t there anymore. You’re then quickly flown out to meet the Los Vaqueros which results in you jumping off a cliff and being helped out by the one person you wish you never had to work with again. (THIS FOLLOWS THE LINES OF THE START OF THE COD:MWII 2022. And is before the events of JOKER and the previous parts)

Proof Read: NOPE

Pairing: Task Force 141!Platonic x Female!Reader

WordCount: 5k

Age Rating: 16+ preferably

Codename: JOKER

KEY: Y’all should know this by now… Y/N - Your Name so on and so forth

Warning/Info: Normal COD Stuff, Guns, violence, swearing, depiction of action, horrible writing on my part. Kinda a slow burn but it is the back story of how JOKER join the 141. Philip Graves gets his own fuckin’ warning. Sorry not sorry. A lot of time skips, because I’m following the plot of the game for this one the next chapters coming!

PLEASE READ THE PREVIOUS PARTS TO GET A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF JOKER! (If you want) This does take place before the events of JOKER and the previous parts.

Previous Parts can be found here: MASTERLIST (And other things I’ve written)

TagList: @studywithrosie01 Sorry for tagging you but you’ve shown so much love for this series so I thought I should tag for you this part! I hope you don’t mind! And @robins-fanfics (I hope I got the right user name lol) (Tell me if you want to be added or taken off the tag list for this series!)

———————————————————————

Your boot taps the ground rapidly, hands curled around the gun in your lap. “Calm down kid, they aren’t that scary” Price states, you’ve known him for a long while. He’s practically your dad at this point, he helped you throughout your career in the military. Pushed you to your limit to get you into the SAS which you’re beyond thankful for, yet right now you’re wondering if that was a bright idea. You’re meeting up with the Lieutenant of the Task Force that Price has made. You were the first one to meet Laswell in person, she had a nice, friendly smile but you could tell she is tough as nails. “I know Captain, but… he’s ‘The Ghost’ the man everyone is scared of, he bloody appears outta nowhere!” You state, looking over at the bearded man, he shakes his head lightly. “Well, you’ll be following his lead for now kid. He’s being instructed by Shepherd on this mission” you sigh at hearing this, you’ve had a few run-ins with the US military a few times. They couldn’t understand your accent for the life of them, that’s one of the many cons from living in a household with multiple accents under one roof.

You have no clue what this mission is going to be like, you’re meeting up with another man apparently. He’s meeting you and Lieutenant Riley at the tarmac, just as you’re scheduled to fly out. You can’t help the nerves that are filling your energy, the jitters of anticipation and the fear of what is to come next. “I’ll see you soon kid, stay safe” Price states, drawing you out of your running mind. You nod to him as you give him a fist pump, a light head bump. You two have always done that, a fist pump which turns into a light head bump of good luck, and see you soon. You never part ways without it.

You steel your nerves as you walk out onto the air field, catching a plane to meet up with the Lieutenant and the new guy. Not sure what to expect of your new team mates when you meet them, or how they operate. But there’s excitement bubbling in your veins.

———

“So you’re the new kid?” A grumbly voice sounds out from behind you. Spinning on your heel you come face to face with the signature skull of Lieutenant Riley. “Yes Sir” you state, not breaking eye contact, even though the cold sweat dripping down the back of your neck is screaming at you to run. “Come on then” he states, walking past you, his large frame towering over you, gulping back the nerves you trot after him. Quickly falling into step with the man.

The engine and blades of the chopper are loud, the wind it’s creating ruffling your jacket as you stand next to the Lieutenant. Both of you have stopped when an armoured vehicle with a bunch of soldiers in the back pulled up. Ghost was talking with Shepherd, “The Sergeant?” Ghost questions, he knew you were coming but didn’t know himself and another person were going to be leading this operation. Your interest piqued when you hear him say that. You subconsciously readjust the balaclava that’s on your face slightly, the sinister joker-like smile staring at anyone who looks. You watch as men jump off the armoured vehicle, waiting to see who is this new Sergeant that’s going to be leading you and other men into a war zone with the Lieutenant.

A man in a dark jacket approached you both as soon as he jumped off the vehicle. A smirk on his face already. “Let’s get ourselves a win, yeah L.T?” He states, bumping the Lieutenant’s shoulder with his fist. “Save ya a seat, sir…” you watch the exchange with raised brows, the black war paint around your eyes cracking slightly. The man nods to you too, the smile back on his face as he jogs off towards the chopper. “See you on the Chopper, Lieutenant” you state, quickly following the Sergeant. You hear a faint “Fucking Hell…” from behind you, a short snort leaving you as you jump onto the ramp. Looking for a seat. Waving from the corner of your eye catches your attention, it’s the Sergeant. You smile under your mask as you make your way over, throwing yourself into the seat.

“They call me Soap!” He states, holding his hand out to you, you take his hand with a firm grip. “Joker! Good to meet ya!” You notice the Scottish accent, it’s interesting to hear one compared to all the English accents you hear on a daily basis. Your nerves have been drowned out by the adrenaline rushing through your veins. This Soap seems to have a good energy about him, you could get used to this.

————

“Bravo team offloads here. Alpha team stays on board to land down range. Both teams meet in the middle. Remember, we want Hassan alive, but this is capture or kill” the Lieutenant states as he approaches the ramp that is lowering to let Brave team out. Both you and Soap stand to follow Ghost, you flick down your night vision as soon as you step out. You snicker lightly at hearing Ghost saying “Keep up Soap” honestly surprised he didn’t say that to you instead.

You kneel in the grass, out of the way of the chopper as it takes off to drop Apha team off down range. You jog after Lieutenant Riley, keep a few paces behind him. Your sniper rifle in your hands as your Semi Automatic is strapped to your back. You hear the radio chatter of the chopper in your ear, it’s louder than the blood rushing through your veins as you weave through the ruins of a stone building. You're zoned in on the mission, keeping your eyes peeled for anything and everything.

Suddenly you hear the frantic calls from the chopper, the whooshing hissing sound of a RPG being launched echoes through the night. The flares are not helping the chopper for the second missile. You come to a halt at the top of the small hill, the ground shakes form the impact of the aircraft plummeting into the ground. “Shit…” you curse under your breath, your knee digging into the dirt below you as Soap crouches down on your right and Ghost on your left. “Alpha, what’s your status?” Ghost asks over the comms, the crackling sound of coughing breaks through the haze. “Alpha, how copy?…” Ghost pushes for an answer. “Shit…” you curse under your breath. You block out the conversation over the comms, raising the Sniper up. Watching the flames lick the ground like a hungry beast, another missile hitting the chopper along with countless bullets raining down onto the downed bird.

“Ghost we need to secure the crash site now” Soap calls, his eyes moving from the chopper to the Lieutenant. “First, we clear for Hassan, that takes the heat off Alpha. Then we secure the crash site. Clear?” The timbre of Ghost’s voice cuts through the air like a knife. “Roger that.” Both you and Soap reply. “Let’s move” as soon as his words leave his mouth, you’re off your knees immediately, quickly falling in behind Ghost. Your boots hit the hard earth like thunder on the horizon, your rifle up and ready. You weave around small bushes, following Ghost through the low walls of what looks like a garden. “Force up to the house” his command is clear as you branch off to the side, Soap filling the gap between you and Ghost. You position yourself on the other side of the door, looking down the scope of your rifle. You glance up at Ghost and nod to him, he nods back to you and Soap. You hear the muffled yells of  “Kill all that they send here!” From the other side of the door. “Breacher Up” Ghost calls as he swings the heavy breacher into the wooden door.

—— Time Skip —— Mission With Los Vaqueros —

Your heart is thumping in your ears as you groan, pushing yourself to your hands and knees. “You good lass?” Soap questions, both of you just dropped down to a ledge on the side of a cliff. It has a hearty drop. You’re following a few of the men who work for Alejandro. Ghost is watching from above you, Alejandro with him. “Y-Yeah..” you cough, gripping your gun tightly as you turn around. “Oh hell no” you state, seeing the gap between the ledge you’re on and the one you have to jump to. Alejandro says something about cutting school and playing around these parts when he was younger. “Until the cartels moved in?” Soap quips before taking a running leap onto the ledge in front of you. Alejandro and Ghost jump down, quickly cutting in front of you and Soap. They easily shuffle along the small ledge on the side of the cliff, backs pressed against the wall as they move along it, you swallow down the nerves in your throat. Soap goes ahead of you, followed by Rodriguez - one of Alejandro's men - then you follow after. Your hands shake as you shuffle along the wall. Then the sound of a bullet flying past your head into the rock wall behind you makes you freeze. Ghost yells something that you don’t process as you watch Rodrigues get shot multiple times. His body falling away from the cliff, rag dolling down.

“JOKER MOVE IT!” Soap yells, ducking when a bullet flys over head. You shake your head free of fog, quickly shuffling most the way, taking the risk of leaping to the ledge. You do a tactical roll when you hit the ground, sliding up onto your knees. Breathing heavily, you don’t get a chance to breathe, Soap already pulling you up by your arm. You push yourself up onto the ledge that's higher, running after Soap and Alejandro. Ghost right on your heels. You throw yourself off the ledge onto the one that's lower, landing on your feet, stumbling into a sprint again. Rifle gripped tightly in your hands. You watch Soap disappear behind the lip of the ledge, realising you're gonna have to slide. Your hand falls behind you as you stick one of your legs out to brace yourself while sliding down the rough rock face, thankful you're wearing gloves and thick cargo pants. You stand just behind the others as they stand at the edge of the cliff, Ghost sneers out a “You led us to a dead end, mate.” You internally curse Alejandro.

Your blood runs cold when you see the Mexican soldier launch himself off the cliff, yelling out “We jump from here!”. “WHAT THE FUCK!” You yell, quickly looking over the ledge. “Don’t lose your weapon” he yells just before he lands in the water. “Your turn, Sergeant!” Ghost states, both you and Soap look between each other. “See ya down there, Lass.” He quips, doing a two finger salute before jumping. You back away from the ledge slightly, your head whips towards the Lieutenant. “Go kid, there’s no time! We stay here, we’re dead. Now jump!” you gulp as you tighten your grip on the rifle, you take a running leap off the ledge. You plunge into the icy water, your eyes screwing shut just before the impact. You quickly resurface, the water soaking the balaclava. Not helping with breathing, your breathing is heavy as you tread water. “You good, hermanos?” Alejandro asks. “Affirm” Ghost states, he’s next to you. “Soap?” The Scotsman nods his head “Breathing” he quips. “Joker?” You let out a small cough, shaking your head lightly to get the water out of your face. “Alive…” you mumble.

“Move down river to the bridge. Use the rocks for cover” Alejandro instructs, you all take off swimming down the river. You’re thankful you're going with the current, cause god knows you would’ve bailed and just went on land if you were desperate enough. Alejandro tries contacting someone on comms, you're too focused on not letting your heavy tactical gear get caught on anything under water, or drag you to the river bed. “Radio’s picking up somethin.” Soap states, you’re in the middle of the group, your smaller size getting dragged by the current quicker than the others. “Sounds American” Ghost states, he’s just behind you on your right. “Great, Yanks” you sneer. Everyone dives as soon as a vehicle comes into view, Alejandro stops behind a rock. Soap right behind him, Ghost a little further down. Before you can even attempt to stop at one of the rocks, Ghost grabs the strap of your vest, dragging you up next to him. “Thanks Lieutenant.” you mumble, you are situated just below the large long log that’s fallen across the river, resting on the large rock both you and Ghost are behind. You duck occasionally whenever bullets whiz past your head. Your feet slip and you plunge into the water, resurfacing quickly. Gasping for air as you grip onto the rough rock, you're thankful for the strap on your stifle still around your shoulder. “Fuckin hell” you curse.

“Keep pushing up river.” Alejandro calls. You groan as you struggle to keep your head above the water, and your gun trained on the shore where the enemies are. All three of the men are six foot plus, while you're below all their chins on flat ground. You dive underwater, seeing Ghost come to a stop at another set of rocks, Alejandro and Soap go around the two of you and perch themselves slightly down from you. You practically throw yourself onto the rock shelf that's just below the water, taking the short time to regain your breath. “Move up river! Go!” Alejandro calls again, you groan as you see them move off. Your eyes meet Ghost’s for a second. You bite your tongue and push off the rock, following after them. You dive under a log that's just above the water's surface. You resurface just behind a rock, coming face to face with a Mexican soldier who has their gun aimed at you, you're quick to train your rifle on them, letting a bullet lodge itself in the man's skull.

“The rivers slowing us down, mate!” Ghost calls, you can tell he’s agitated by being in the water for so long. “It gets shallow up ahead!” Alejandro states. “Oh thank god, the waters up to my fucking eyes!” You call, shooting down a few more men that are on the shore. You feel like your skin is in ice cold water, your clothing sticks to you as your plate carrier weighs you down. Boots slipping over the algae covered rocks, you just wanna rip the boots off your feet and the plate carrier off your chest. You push your way through the water, quickly grabbing the rock. You’re beyond thankful for the shallow water, you are crouched low behind a rock. You hear your lieutenant’s strong accent cut through the air, your stomach dropping when you hear what he’s saying. “Vehicles on the bridge!” You whip your head around to look at the bridge, “They’re not ours!” Alejandro calls “Fuck-! It’s the army!” You peek over the edge of the rock to look, eyes widening to see the heavily armoured vehicles roll onto the bridge. “Get to cover!” Ghost calls, you quickly duck back down and press your back up against the rock. “We have to hold here and get extraction” Alejandro states. Soap slides up next to you, Ghost next to him then Alejandro. “We can’t do shite against that armour!” The Scotsman states, you reload as you listen to the firefight happening.

Suddenly an American accent cuts through the firefight “This is shadow-1! Engaging the bridge north of your position. Danger close!” You realise who is speaking, it's Philip Graves, the man you’ve worked with in the past. “Who the hell is that?” Alejandro asks, “Commander Graves. Shadow Company. They’re with us.” Ghost states, he glances at you when he realises you’ve gone very quiet when the American’s voice cuts through. The rumble of the bridge getting hit by the large shots trembling the ground, you watch as the bridge crumbles  “Shadow-1, Bravo 0-7! Good Shots! Fire for effect!” Ghost says over the comms. “All stations, no enemy movement detected. You’re clear.” Graves states over the comms, you sigh as you stand shaking out your shoulders. “It’s good to see you boys.” You grumble lightly under your breath when the American states this “Likewise, mate” Ghost states, he nudges you to move when Alejandro calls ‘This way!’ You fall into a run, splashing through the water, jumping over a few larger rocks. “Graves, we’ve located a vehicle for exfil.” Ghost states as you all run up the slight hill from the river towards a pick up. “Roger that. Be advised, we got a possible hit on Hassan, two kicks north of your position.” Grave states, you roll your neck as you come to halt by the back door of the pick up, climbing into the back. “That’s cartel land. They have a compound there.” Alejandro states, you’ve been quiet the entire time. “Load in!” Ghost calls. “Shadow-1, stand-by…” You watch as Ghost slides in next to you, Soap climbing into the front seat and Alejandro into the driver's seat. “I’ll drive,” Alejandro states. “You boys, good to roll up Hassan with some fire from the sky?” Graves asks, everyone looks at each other. The boys nod, you just shrug as you look out the window. Ghost watches you with a raised brow hidden under his mask. “Let’s wrap this fucker up, Graves” Soap states. “Solid copy. We are pushing to the target di-rectly. Shadow-1 out.” You slump back into the seat. Letting out a sigh, you rub the space between your brows, pushing the balaclava up a little.

—— Time skip to grabbing Hassan ——

“Breaching” Soap calls, the door gets bashed open by the Scotsman. “They’re here!” “Get the Major upstairs!” Multiple cartel members yell. You’re the first one to shoot down a few men and spot the man you’re all here for, you quickly switch on the comms, the throat mic switching on. “Shadow-1! Positive ID on Hassan!” You call, rushing forward. “He’s moving upstairs!” Soap calls, he’s right behind you, followed by Ghost and Alejandro. Grave’s brows raise when he recognises the female voice come through the comms. “Graves, he’s exiting the second floor! North-west side!” Ghost states over the comms. “Got a visual on Hassan!” Alejandro states, you're quickly moving across the second floor outside. You ignore whatever is happening over the comms, you enter the building again. “Get down!” Soap calls “Get down! Now!” Alejandro growls. “Get the fuck down!” You sneer, your sights aimed directly at Hassan’s head, “Who the fuck are you?” Hassan questions, his voice holding venom. The man who was with Hassan is now dead on the ground, Alejandro moves forward. “Mexican Special Forces, you're coming with us…” the restraints get secured around the man's wrists. You can see the anger in Alejandro's movements when he restrains Hassan, you keep your gun trained on Hassan. “Shadow-1, Bravo 0-7. Jackpot. I say again, jackpot. Target is secure.” Ghost states over the comms, you look over at the Lieutenant. Graves asks a question about the exfil, which Alejandro answers. Soap slaps a hand down on your shoulder, giving you a nod of approval. You nod back, a small smile hidden under your mask. A few moments of conversations between Graves and Ghost gets drowned out by the rumbling of heavy tires on the earth, your own stomach twists into uncomfortable knots as you realise that it's the Mexican Army. “For fucks sakes. Do we ever get a break?” You ask, the question not directed to anyone. “Not this time ‘round Lass” Soap states as he looks out the window towards all the heavy armoured vehicles.

Graves says something about the shadows being able to engage the convoy, the next thing you know is the whisper of a large 25mm round flying through the air. The deep thunderous sound of it hitting the earth shakes the building, the sound of metal crunching and being destroyed rings in your ears as you look around the room. The earth continues to shake when smaller rounds and bigger rounds make contact witht he earth, your blood is bubbling under the service, you need to move. You want to do something and not just sit around and wait for your next order. The next thing you know you're running down the stairs at breakneck speed, Hassan being dragged behind you as you kick open the door to the outside, the exfil vehicle ready for you all. Ghost cuts in front of you as you get out the door, followed by Alejandro then Soap who has Hassan in a death grip. You spin around keeping your gun up and looking for any movement that needs to be dealt with. “Come on! Come on!” Rodolfo calls over the comms, you are happy to see him again. Hassan spits something out that you don’t quite catch as the screeching of tires and the blood rushing through your ears is all you can hear. You do clearly hear Soap growl out a “Shut the fuck up!” When he shoves Hassan into the side of the Vehicle. “Fuuuuuck” you groan as you realise you're the smallest on the team, you immediately open the door and climb over the back seat into the back compartment of the vehicle. Rodolfo and Alejandro speak to each other in Spanish, you only make out a few words as you're trying to get comtoble in the one spot no one is supposed to really sit in these types of vehicles. “We’re good!” Soap calls, “Go!” Ghost growls. “Joker?” Rodolfo asks as he glances up in the rear view mirror, spotting you peeking over the back of the seat between Ghosts’ and Hassan's head. “Happy as Larry!” You joke, you're not comfortable by any means but you know you just want to get the hell out of here already.

—— Time Skip To Interrogation of Hassan ——

You sit on the hood of one of the Vehicles, the headlights cutting through the thick blanket of darkness that covers the desert. The animals of the night linger just beyond the lights. Alejandro and Soap drag Hassan into the middle of the group of vehicles, shoving him to his knees with a bag over his head. “On your knees” Soap growls out as he steps back. You got here before Graves did, you aren’t happy about having to conduct this interrogation with the American present, you hated working with him in the past and right now you still are sour about being near him, especially on a mission that you were hoping to just be yourself and the 141 accompanied by the Los Vaqueros. Graves is kneeling down setting up the laptop which has General Shepherd and Laswell on the other end, your Criss cross applesauce on the hood of the vehicle. “Y’all got a clear picture?” You cringe at the drawl in his words. You hear a “Crystal” and a “All Set” fromt he other two members of the video call. You inch your way forward to have your feet dangling off the edge of the hood as soon as Graves moves away, your feet coming to rest on the bumper. “Alright, we are live, folks” Graves states as he approaches Hassan, the bag no longer on the kneeling man's head.

“Do you sepal Arabic?” Hassan questions, looking up at Graves.

“No one other than you” you mumble, knowing he won't hear you.

“No” Grave relplies.

“Farsi?”

“No.”

“Course not.” Hassan states with a smirk playing on his lips, “Then I’ll speak your bastardised Medieval English because you are all uneducated street dogs” You jump off the hood to curse him out in every language that you have learnt, but you get held back by a heavy hand. You look over your shoulder at who has stopped you, Ghost shakes his head lightly knowing that anger that is bubbling in you. You have too much adrenaline still coursing through your veins.

“Ahh, see… we’re getting off to a bad start here, Hassan” Graves starts as he tucks his thumbs into the top of his tac vest and looks down at the ground, something he always does when he's about to interrogate someone. “You are talking to a Quds Force officer” Hassan states. Graves leans in slightly, “You’re the commander of a foreign terror organisation” “I can say the same to you.” You know Hassan is gonna get under everyone’s skin, but you know damn well that Philip Graves has that skill as well. “What’s your target, “Major”?” You almost snort at the way Hassan’s brows scrunch in displeasure.

“What was your target when they sent missiles to my land?” Hassan questions.

“Oh well, wild guess… To nail your ass” Graves looks down at Hassan.

“So insolent and foul-mouthed. You will learn to respect me when your nation sees fire”

Graves steps closer to Hassan “You are in bed with the cartel, Hassan” he starts “If you disappeared, no one would know where to look for the fuckin’ stain” he growls out through a tight lipped frown.

A small shiver runs down your spin when you hear Hassan let out a small tiny pathetic chuckle of a ‘ha’.

“I have no doubt you’ll take pleasure in torturing me.” Hassan states when he looks back up at Grave from shaking his head lightly, a smile on his face. This time Soap speaks, his voice accent thick compared to the others.

“Who’d you get American missiles from?” You lean your elbows onto your knees, you jerk lightly when you suddenly hear General Shepherd speak. Almost forgetting him and Laswell are on the video call.

“I don’t care who they’re from. I wanna know where they’re going.” You almost want to yell at the older man, for overpowering Soap’s question which was a good question.

Graves was looking at the laptop before stepping away from Hassan, that's when the laughing yaps of coyotes cut through the air. They sound close, not too close but close enough for you to not feel comfortable. Graves walks a few half paces before turning around to look at Hassan. “Take a look around, Hassan” he states before stepping up the man and leaning down to get in his face “Now you can either become part of the food chain or you can start talking.” You watch the conversation from the shadows, just like your Lieutenant. “I’m a hostage here.” Hassan states, “This is illegal.” Alejandro speaks up from behind Hassan. “You’re a prisoner of war.” Hassan turns to look over his shoulder at the Mexican. “Iran is not at war with Mexico. I’ve broken no laws.” He turns to look back at Graves and motions his head to his surroundings “These men and their commanders are the law breakers.” He glances over towards you and Ghost but you can tell he is mainly looking at the laptop, he still makes eye contact with you through the haze of the lights, and with Ghost. You stare the man down, the dark oil paint on your skin making your eyes stand out against the rest of your dark outfit.

Ghost takes a small step forward “You and your beloved General Ghorbrani broke every—-” “DO NOT SPEAK HIS NAME!” Hassan yells, cutting Soap off. “You executed him and you will pay for your crimes…” he pauses briefly “Only god can help you now-” he yells in his mother tongue. You understood him barely, you wanted to snatch a knife from Ghost’s plate carrier and throw it between the screaming man's eyes. You attention cuts to below you, where General Shepherd's voice comes from the laptop “I want this bastard in permanent custody or looking up at the goddamn grass…” he sneers, Laswell is quick to cut in “General, killing Hassan is an act of war, keeping him is illegal. Right now, he is too hot to hold.” She’s right, you all know this is illegal but you’re still doing it. “Tell me you’re getting something actionable, Laswell.” The general growls, you move to slide off the hood of the vehicle when Laswell states something about working on it.

You stand next to Ghost who has moved over slightly to allow you to jump down. You both watch as Graves brings the laptop onto the hood of the vehicle. Grave's voice lowers as he looks at the laptop. “Actual, let me finish this” you tense up his words, you glance over at Soap and Alejandro then to Ghost who is just staring at Graves with no emotion in his eyes. Yet you can still see the thoughts playing like a movie. You focus back into what Shepherd is saying, only catching the end half of his sentence. “Without proof we need to turn him loose. See where he leads us” you watch as Graves leans away, Soap quickly walking up and leaning into the conversation. “He’s right here. You can’t be serious” his voice is low gravely when he speaks, his accent a strong contrast to the others. Graves moves off the side slightly, Ghost as step forward an inch, his arm coming in front of you when he sees Graves look at you. “I’m afraid I am, son.” Shepherd says. You look down, looking at the phone in Ghost’s hand. “Laswell, did we get anything from his phone?” You bet Ghost to it, he looks at you with a clearly raised brow, you can tell. You give him the same look. “Affirmative. We got a hit.” Laswell states, “Good” the General pauses “Now take him back and let him go”. Ghost moves slightly, making eye contact witht eh eyes and nodding his head.  Alejandro bags and drags Hassan to his feet, Ghost slyly puts Hassan’s phone back in the man's pocket when he walks past. You notice this as you have done it many times, but you were taking the phones and not giving them back. You hear the familiar ‘thunk’ of the laptop closing, you nod to Soap who seems pissed. Not surprised.

[optimisticlucio]

no obligation but i saw your post about jewish voice for peace and its new info to me. i tried looking into it myself but there's a lot of biased information (on both sides) and it was hard to filter the truth. i felt like you had a much better understanding than me. if you had time to share more, i would be happy to learn. thank you (and no problem if you prefer to ignore this ask)

Sure thing.

As you said, there's a lot of biased info online (frankly a lot of petty claims about them) so I'll try to focus on a pair of really obvious and notable examples of them fucking up jewish tradition to explain what I meant.

First of all, there's the seder plate of JVP LA.

The hebrew here is written backwards, and the punctuation (if you look closely) is not actually on any of the letters, it's just kind of arbitrarily placed. Now, I am not saying that knowing Hebrew is a requirement for being Jewish, much of my family (and hell, I) lived in the diaspora for much of their life and only knew Hebrew in the context of reciting prayer, but this is something fairly basic; a seder plate passed in my family since before WW2 has it all written correctly. Evidently they also see the hebrew text as being somewhat necessary or appropriate by the fact that they included it rather than translating it all to english (many of the items listed in this plate are more modern, american changes, so it wouldn't be out of place to also change the words).

Secondly there's the instructions on how to do a Mikveh. I'll be frank - I don't understand too much of this tradition, as I haven't done it myself; I'm not particularly religious and I was born into Judaism so there wasn't any 'requirement' for me to. However, I do understand that it's seen as a fairly important tradition with fairly stringent rules, to the point where a mikveh is seen as important as building a synagogue in some cases. JVP's instructions on how to do a Mikveh are... not that.

A Mikveh traditionally requires the water to be naturally flowing and disallows hand-pumped water sources, so a teacup is flagrant violation of that. Their mikveh guide in general is extremely lenient by everyone's standards, and they're aware of that - there's a section where they justify the decision, saying "as the wise maggid Jhos Singer says in reference to the ocean, 'It's [sic] becomes a mikveh when we call it a mikveh.'" Which, again, a nice sentiment, but if you're going to play jump-rope with the more stringent requirements, people are going to look at you funny and say you aren't a good source of info.

There's certainly more examples I could pull here, but I hope these two are enough to explain the general issue I have with JVP being used as reference for jewish beliefs.

[wildfangz]

Lil (long) simblr gratitude day post

I wanted to make a post shouting out some of my favorite creators, storytellers, and just general simmers from over the last year, mainly focused on ts4 since that's where my attention has been the most. Long post ahead so it's going under a cut. If you're not tagged please know I did wake up late today so it's not as complete of a list as I wanted it to be!!

@adelarsims - You are an essential in my mods folder!! I love how much realism and/or character your cc adds to sims, from things like the piercing holes to the wonky glasses to the mechanic overlay... Just so many little things that I can't imagine not having in my game or on certain characters now. Speaking of characters, your sims both original and premade are always so gorgeous, and I really enjoy your interpretations of wg and jeb. & Thank you for being WCIF friendly, I know it takes time to get that info but it's so appreciated, u've help me find some very beloved pieces of CC. Also the level of dedication u have to organizing your mods folder is incredible and you've inspired me a lot to get my folder's act together finally!! Which is SUCH a QoL improvement

@bearphase - I adore the bright legacy and I admire all the little details and effort you put into your posts, like fixing clipping issues, making icons and templates for custom careers or story events, ur creativity really shines through. You've also reminded me how fun NSB can be and inspired me to get back to it and my human enough gameplay and I can't thank u for that enough, it's got me sooo excited for future simming endeavors

@daisydezem - You've been a welcome addition on my dash back since POSE, which was a fantastic first community experience for me and so much fun, & I love your gameplay & love how much work u put into rainbowsin! (I adore Venus so much btw!!) I hope you're healing well and that u have a lovely new year!!

@divinedionym - CLAIRE!!! I was SO happy to see you dipping your toes back in the community I missed you on my dash! and while I adored ur vatores and their story and ur an incredible storyteller, I'm glad you've been able to pivot into something more enjoyable for u. I hope you have lots of fun in the coming year and I can't wait to see what Aspen gets up to… or into… especially with his vampire BF. Aside from that idk if you'll ever wanna run another sims server, but I did want to give you a late shoutout and props for that bc I know from experience it can be difficult and I really loved how you ran yours! I could just be an anxious bitch but I feel like its so hard to find comfortable servers.... and esp the storytellers one was so cozy and helpful, and ur management of it was *chefs kiss* I've also really enjoyed it every time we've talked, tho I'm sorry I'm so shy 😭😭

@earthmoonz - LONG TIME MUTUAL ALERT ….. ur sims are always so gorgeous. Love the Devereauxs and... Max and Lena… WOO. I support womens and nonbinary rights. and wrongs. Wifey has been SO good and I'm pumped to see where the rest of the story goes. U have a natural talent for storytelling and I really appreciate how much care u put into your characters. Everyone read wifey today rn

@hauntedtrait - Another mutual I enjoy every time I see you on my dash!! Your Lilith is drop dead gorgeous but honestly so many of your sims are. I love ur premade makeovers and Dakota is sooo pretty I'm obsessed. I can't wait 2 see who he ends up with! :]

@horusmenhosetix - I love seeing u on my dash and every time we've talked has been so lovely!! There's been so many times you've made me want to jump back into my projects for ts2 or even go back to ts3 once I have the space to download it. I love your s2cc and god ur sims …. its been a year but I still smile whenever I think about the vatore siblings you shared jhskfdh they're so perfect its got me inspired to throw together an s4 save whenever I get my mods folder sorted. & I'm so excited to go thru ur downloads tag and fill that baby UP with ur stuff next time I work on that !!!!!!!!

@myshunosun - One of my favorite CC creators, pretty sure my folder has all of your stuff in it bc I couldn't help myself. Always impressed with the quality and I love the variety. Thank u for sharing such incredible work with us!

@nucrests - I downloaded a lot of ur cc more recently but MY BOYS!!! U'VE CLOTHED MY BOYS!!! You make such good quality content and I'm always a huge fan of those that help me give my male sims some flair and style, thank u! :')

@oshinsimblr - Long 1 incoming... While I've never been a sims 4 hater, like a lot of people I've still struggled with the gameplay aspect of this iteration, so it's been really inspiring to watch how you go about your game and immerse yourself in it, see all the care you put into your sims. I have to thank you for the videos you've made on it, like the one on how to make sims you connect to, season 1 of Lovesick where you went basically vanilla with the specific intent to show people how much you can do with imagination and what that looks like in gameplay! It's been literally game-changing for me lol and helped me to have more fun with my saves, even if they're not one of the rare few that starts out off the rails, I get more enjoyment playing it out until things do start happening outside of my control. & YOUR CC RECS!! I've downloaded so many of the mods you've recommended and I love how much they fill out the game. On the topic of Lovesick, I have not been able 2 get enough!! I'm so hooked lmao. Watching this series has really taken me back to the days when I was a teen reading like those particularly juicy drama-filled sims 3 stories you can't help but to keep clicking "next page" on, except Lovesick is so solid writing-wise. SO excited to see where Lizbeth is going in her life!!

@simandy - Your hairs have been an essential in my CAS folder for so long, and I've been so impressed with the evolution of your creations over the years. I've always liked your work but GODDAMN the quality always blows me away these days!! & I really, really adore and appreciate the variety! @squea - ANOTHER SORT OF LONG ONE BUT ... Your sims just POP!!! SO much character, and your edits and art r phenomenal. Corn is one of my favorite little digital guys I've had the pleasure of experiencing on line in all my years in the sims community reading stories and gameplay. If Cornelius has a million fans I am one of them. If Cornelius has ten fans I am one of them. If Cornelius has no fans I am no longer on the earth. If world against Cornelius, I am against the world. So on and so forth TBH you've also helped me have a lot more fun with the sims 4 talking about how you enjoy your game, and have a healthier mindset about my place in the community and connect back with the reason I made this blog in the first place, which was just to have fun and archive something I love, regardless of whether it got any attention or not! I started going MIA a bit post 2019 after really getting involved in the community, for Life Happens reasons, and naturally the lack of consistent posting for a while meant less eyes on whatever I came back to share. For a while I let that discourage me esp when a lot of effort was put into something, but after you posted about just genuinely enjoying ur game and loving what you made regardless of notes it made me realize what I was doing and helped me get back to that state of mind. Now whatever I make gets to matter simply because it matters to me, even if I post it at like 3am bc I'm so excited and no one ever sees it bc of that DHKDHKHSD. & I feel like I have u to thank for that!! U turned da lightbulb on

@thefoxburyinstitute - I could not make a gratitude post without forgetting to include the foxbury institute!! I've been messing around more with making CC the last couple of months and your blog has been so incredibly helpful, and I highly recommend everyone interested in creating or just wanting to maintenance and mend their mods folder a bit check them out!

@tricoufamily - YOUR RENDERS ARE SO GORGEOUSSS and I love your take on the Villareals. I never ran into the original story so I'm really excited tbh to see whats up ur sleeve... also I love everything you've shared about two headed lamb so far, so eerie and offputting in the best way. Also everyone read this is the fall here

@void-imp I know we just followed each other a few days ago but ur trio is SO CUTE!!!!!!!!!! I love Jab's design so much and I rlly enjoy what I've read about aleksey so far. :-)

@warwickroyals - Ok so first off your clothing is a STAPLE in my folder for my more wealthy and/or fashion-oriented sims! And as for the Warwick Legacy? One of my absolute favorite simblr stories I've read. I still remember when I started it, it was pretty late at night so I was just planning on reading a handful of posts and then picking it back up the next day. That did not happen I could not stop. Straight up stayed up the entire night bingeing all the way to the latest post (which was the Big Phillip Thing. I had to get up from my computer to pace I was having a Moment LOL) I've got some catching up to do but so far I think that's been my favorite arc. Aside from that your editing is beautiful, and I've always been a character enjoyer so I'm in love with how much thought you've put into all of yours, and the fact we get to learn so much about them. I think you do a really good job of balancing the cast and I really dig your storytelling style in general.

@whimsyalien I know u post moreso on twitter but since u ARE technically also on simblr... I just wanna say I love the polaris legacy and thank you so much for all the poses and templates you share!!!

@windbrook THANK YOU for making so many fantastic builds and for sharing your saves, it's one of my absolute favorites. Also all the original sims u post are so striking, and ur cartoon-ish makeovers were so much fun!! Loving the recent builds/world pics u shared as well, and looking forward to whatever you create whether its in sims 4 or a previous game in the series!

@yooniesim Your cc is a more recent addition to my folder but there's so many things you've made and I'm sure will make that are essentials there now, like the teeth and body hair and god that necklace set for men is a necessity, but outside of that I love a lot of the other CAS CC you make you have some of the cutest hairs and I really adore the accessories! Thank you also for speaking out on certain issues within the community.

Finally,

To My Followers: thank u all for sticking with me even as I've been a biiit flaky over the years. My healths doing a lot better tho and I have so much passion for the game and I'm so excited for what I have to share with u all next, and I hope it can brighten ur dash up a bit, pull the heartstrings when appropriate, etc!! I also have a lil milestone coming up so im planning on doing some sim requests soon as a thank you when that hits. c:

[dorothygale123]

Since I've made a lot of mythology sh*tposts, I decided to make a masterlist for anyone who wants to skip around quickly.

The 5 Emperors

Red Son and the Red Emperor

Xing Tian, the headless giant

Red Emperor 2, the Reddening

Chiyou causes problems

Yellow Emperor makes a corpse drum (yes, really)

My fellow nerd and I have a lot to say about weeds

Dragons

The dragon princess and the dumbest in laws ever

The Dragon Kings who don't do anything

Ao Qin shows us why we shouldn't give in to peer pressure

Moving branches on the dragon family tree

China has a dragon problem

The Sun and Moon

The very similar stories of Hou Yi and Shen I

Erlang Shen killed the suns too

Why the 10 Suns were being jerks

The 12 Moons

Ancient Chinese Alice in Wonderland

More fun stuff about the 10 suns

Does Hou Yi have a backstory?

A dramatic retelling of the 10 suns myth

Earth and Sky

Eggs come up a lot, actually

Nuwa cleans up a big mess-

-But there was still more for Yu to clean later

Why is the sky all the way up there?

Sun Wukong

The 4 Spiritual Primates + 4 Elements

The Old Mother of Waters gets some bad takeout

Sun Wukong's first crime (they grow up so fast)

A more dramatic telling of how Monkey became Monkey King

The Underworld

The Chinese underworld is very judgy

But it also has a wholesome grandma who feeds you

Kuan Yin

Kuan Yin, Goddess of Mercy

Kuan Yin 2, Electric Boogaloo

Kuan Yin 3, This Time It's Personal

Rulers of the Cosmos

Xiwangmu, the Jade Emperor, and Nuwa

The Jade Emperor is someone's OC

Possible line of succession for the rulers of the cosmos

Was the Jade Emperor in charge for Wukong's entire life?

Shangdi and the void where his characterization used to be

How the Jade Emperor got his badass wife

Miscellaneous

Si-Men Bau is a genius

The very heterosexual fox and his 'drinking buddy'

This fox had one job and he decided to create footbinding instead

Seriously, what are the 8 trigrams?

Erlang Shen plays Sidekick while th 4 kings get their asses whooped

The 5 members of the 4 Guardian Beasts

The 5th Element isn't just an old movie

The cow can jump over the moon, but not the Milky Way

Cute figures I don't need got my research blood pumping

And I needed 2 posts to geek out appropriately

Dragon Ball Parallels

More info on some cool critters that happen to have adorable minis

Oops, is that Plato in my Chinese Mythology?

Bulma Briefs, Great Tang Monk

Tien Shinhan, Lord of Sichuan

Yamcha, River Spirit of the Desert and Puar the Dragon Horse

[zahmaddog]

The Frat Boy Days - The Bad Batch Workout Split

Hi everyone! I've created a "Frat Boy Days" edition to follow up my first Clone Force 99 Workout Program. This one includes a day for Echo :) I'm also working on a 501st split; but it's taking a while longer to develop, so stay tuned! I wrote more on the fictional side too, so we get a little more insight on how the squad works together in the gym, how they approach the weights, and what their favorite things are. I hope you enjoy! I had a lot of fun with this.

Wrecker - Quads and Calves

Wrecker outlifts everyone in the squad, for obvious reasons, but his squat and deadlift abilities outshine most large species in the galaxy. It can be challenging to have a lifting buddy that will always be stronger, but Wrecker lifts up the people around him and encourages them to push their limits. It doesn’t matter if he already got his workout in for the day or if he’s busy, he’ll always drop what he’s doing to accompany a squad-mate or friend in the gym.

Warm Up

Wrecker likes to get his blood moving and warm up on the treadmill. He’ll sport gigantic hoodies and sweatpants, often throwing the hood up to keep his head warm too. Often giddy, he’ll use the treadmill next to Tech or Echo for great conversation.

10 minutes walking on treadmill

Pre-Exhaust

The pre-exhaust set is one of Wrecker’s favorites of the day because it warms the body to be more explosive. The purpose of a pre-exhaust set(s) is to bring blood flow to the muscle you’re targeting during the workout session. This will help you target that muscle better (that mind-muscle connection Tech goes on about) throughout the session and warm the muscle for better performance. 

Leg Extension - 2 sets of 20

Core

After your muscles are warmed, it’s time to put them to work. Wrecker focuses up and pops a few pieces of sour gummy candies for a quick carbohydrate source. Just like defusing a bomb, Wrecker recommends that you work methodically and safely. Double-check your stance, don’t work with a weight that is too heavy, and make sure you’re warm. He bundles up in a hoodie to sweat through to stay warm. If he starts to overheat, he’ll throw that sweaty pump cover at Crosshair as a joke, but we all know Crosshair loathes it. 

Wrecker recommends that you pick a weight that you can lift comfortably, but will begin to safely struggle through the 10th rep. It’s okay if you struggle around rep 8, just make sure you can re-rack the weight safely. Wrecker also enjoys lowering the weight down slowly and EXPLODING upwards.

Barbell Squats: 3 sets of 8-10

Superset: Leg Press (Narrow Stance) + Leg Press (Calf Raise): 3 sets of 10-12

Hack Squat (Or Goblet Squat if Hack Squat machine is unavailable): 3 sets of 8-10

Finisher 

Wrecker loves how his legs feel like jelly after the core portion of the workout. Now, it’s time to finish up with a circuit of bodyweight exercises (but Wrecker usually adds weight because he eats pain for breakfast). 

Repeat circuit 3 times:

Walking Lunges: 16 reps

Squat Jump: 8 reps

Side Lunge Stretch: 6 reps

Crosshair - Push

Crosshair’s tendencies to push people away translate quite well to traditional push days in the gym. He pictures the weight coming down on him like Wrecker coming in for a hug and the intense strength to push the weight away flows through Crosshair naturally. Crosshair prefers to work with the smith machine because he doesn’t love asking a squad-mate to spot him, but Tech often inserts himself to spot and info-dump at Crosshair as he works through his sets. Tech’s endless banter frustrates him, but Crosshair knows he can lift heavier with the one-sided conversation in the background.

Warm Up

Crosshair doesn’t enjoy warming up, but he knows it’s healthier. He’s had that lecture from Tech, and Wrecker, and Hunter, and Echo, so he just grits his toothpick and gets through a quick warmup before hitting the weights.

10 minutes of walking on treadmill

Arm circles 2 sets of 20

Pre-Exhaust

Similar to pinpointing a target in your scope before pulling the trigger, your pre-exhaust set should target the muscle before hitting the core section of the workout. Crosshair recommends to really squeeze the pectoral muscles during the chest flys to increase blood flow. The increased blood flow will help you focus on the pectorals during the core exercises.

Chest Fly - 2 sets of 15

Core

Crosshair says to keep your chest proud and pronated as you push the weights upward. Before you grab heavier weights, slow your motion downwards, squeeze the muscles in use, and pause at the bottom/top. This will make each movement more effective and keep your joints healthier. Being the marksman that he is, he’ll record each weight and reps that he achieves to push himself the next time he’s in the gym.

Incline Bench Press - 3 sets of 8-10

Bench Press - 3 sets of 8-10

Shoulder Press -3 sets of 8-10

Superset: Delt Raise + Front Raise - 3 sets of 10-12 

Cable Tricep Pull-down - 3 sets 10-12

Finisher

Being the soldier he is, Crosshair enjoys pushups. Being lean and strong, Crosshair can crank out nearly 70-100 reps before he fails each set, but he doesn’t expect that many reps from anyone else because he believes he is superior. In the years after the Republic fell, he has been much more understanding that anyone daring to push to failure is admirable.

Pushups - 3 sets until failure

Crosshair’s bonus tip: Once you’ve pushed yourself to failure on pushups, move to performing pushups on your knees and work until failure.

Tech - Glutes and Hamstrings 

Similar to Wrecker, Tech never skips leg day. He understands that working out legs boosts testosterone and other growth hormones, stimulates full-body circulation, and is great to release stress and endorphins. Crosshair and Hunter sometimes skip leg day and it confuses Tech. He mocks them that they could be in a better mood if they just trained their legs more.

Warm Up

Walking helps warm your lower back muscles and brings blood flow to your legs. Tech will also stretch after walking; he’ll touch his toes, bend in half and let his upper body hang to the floor, and twist to loosen his back up.

10 minutes walking on treadmill

Stretch

Pre-Exhaust

Tech says to use this exercise to not only warm up the muscle, but to also deepen your stretch. Using the weight to help pull your muscle (safely), you’ll be able to lift heavier later more safely.

Lying Hamstring Curl - 2 sets of 15

Core

Tech’s deadlift form is perfect. His main key points are to place your feet shoulder-width apart, pull your shoulders back, and push through your heels as you stand. If you choose to wear a belt, remember that its main purpose is for you to push against with your core as you activate your abdominal muscles. 

Traditional Deadlift - 3 sets of 8-10

Romanian Deadlift - 3 sets of 8-10 Tech recommends to move down slowly and only go up 80% of the way to keep tension on your glutes and hamstrings for the entire set.

Bulgarian Split Squats - 3 sets of 10-12 Tech says to set yourself up parallel to a mirror so you can check to see that the working leg is bending to a 90-degree angle. The 90-degree angle will keep your knee joints safe and target the muscles more effectively. Ensure that your knee does not extend past your foot as you squat down. If the Bulgarian Split Squat is too difficult, a regular split squat will work fine, but be sure to check the angle of your leg.

Sitting Hamstring Curl - 3 sets of 8-10

Finisher

Tech enjoys a challenge after a hard leg day. He’ll take his time with these lunges; meaning he’ll do 10, take a breather and check his data pad, then bang out 12 more, and so on. He knows that the lactic acid buildup the lunges trigger is painful, but he pushes through. Tech says that pushing yourself through painful and tough situations primes your body to push through tough situations when your squad depends on it.

Walking Lunges - 2 sets of 50 reps (25 each side)

Hunter - Pull 

Hunter loves his back days because he can put in his headphones and listen to his “dad rock” without any flack from his brothers. He’ll often pick a time he can go alone because back day doesn’t require any spotting help. He loves his squad, but taking some time to pull away and sort through thoughts and physically work through things is a highlight of his week.

Warm Up

While Hunter is on the treadmill, he’ll build out his playlist for the workout and set his intentions. As a master of visualization, he’ll visualize which muscles he’ll be focusing on and succeeding throughout the workout.

10 minutes walking on treadmill

Pre-Exhaust

In Hunter’s opinion, there’s not a better way to get a pump on than hashing through a few sets of pull ups. Hunter will typically warm up with his bodyweight, but isn’t opposed to adding weight. For beginners, he recommends using the assisted pull up machine and working towards failure, even as a warm up. He’s… intense.

Assisted Pull Ups - 2 sets till failure 

Core

Hunter is all about controlling the weight and not letting it control you. Slow your reps down and create that mind-muscle connection with the different muscles in your back. Squeeze your shoulder blades together like they need to pinch a vibroblade knife between them on each rep. Keep a proud chest, embrace the burn, and use lifting straps if needed. Hunter prioritizes building forearm strength, but he knows his forearm/grip strength will fail before his lats do. 

Cable Lat Pulldown - 3 sets 10-12

Cable Wide Row - 3 sets 10-12

Cable Narrow Row - 3 10-12

Cable Face Pull 3 sets - 10-12

Hammer Curls - 3 sets of 8-10

Finisher

Hunter hits his core after each back workout. His upper body pump afterwards is so intense, he struggles to get his armor to fit. He knows he should just order slightly larger armor from the Republic armory, but he silently loves the feeling. We think only Tech has noticed and he rolls his eyes at the situation and doesn’t give it too much thought.

Leg Raises - 3 sets until failure

Ab Roller - 3 sets until failure

Echo - Shoulders & Arms

Traditional gym and cable machine work has been much easier since Tech developed a few skonk attachments for Echo. Echo’s physical limitations do not limit him on the field nor in the gym. His strength to pull himself up, run, and carry go beyond expectation, but Echo never looks at it that way. He just does what is necessary to get the job done.

Warm Up

If arriving at the gym with the squad, Echo will often find a treadmill next to Tech or Wrecker to chat about the day. He finds their conversations to be soothing and then he’ll feel more positive when heading into lifts.

10 minutes on the treadmill

Pre-exhaust

Echo’s workout today will focus on shoulders and arms. While shrugs are considered more of a back movement, he finds warming up his upper back and focusing on pulling with his shoulders is his favorite movement to warm up.

Dumbbell Shrugs 2 sets of 10-15 reps

Core

Echo has been into supersets (performing one exercise after another in a circuit) lately because they “echo” opposing muscle groups in the same set. He also finds supersets to be very efficient and loves the pump effect it creates, especially in the arms. 

Cable Crunches - 3 sets of 10-12

Machine Shoulder Press - 3 sets of 8-10

Decline Dumbbell Bench - 3 sets of 10-12

Superset: Cable Overhead Tricep Extensions + Cable Bicep Curl - 3 sets of 10-12 

Superset: Cable Delt Raise + Tricep Dips - 3 sets of 10-12 

Finisher

A master of climbing, even with a skonk, Echo will perform chin ups (and sometimes pull ups) until failure and then hang until his grip strength fails. He’ll repeat this exercise 3 to 5 times, nearly daily. He knows it burns, but he says it’s important to build up this strength so you have it when your life depends on it.

Chin ups until failure; then static hang until failure - 3 sets

[barelylocalonline]

Photo by: Blake Burk

An Interview with RASURA

by barelylocal | This article is from May 2024, so some info may be outdated.

If you were at the Masonic Lodge show on 4/20, you might have caught the first band, in between their flashing lights and fog machine. That was RASURA: a band new to the scene, though its members are not. We spoke with the band about the beginning of their group and what is up next for them.

How would you describe your music? CAMERON: I would say it’s hardcore meets metalcore with 2000s underground influence and some cool melodies.

What exactly inspired y’all to start Rasura? RILEY: We started Rasura when two projects* we had worked on for years kinda fell apart. We turned those two bands into one passion project and went from there. * A Night Out (Cameron and Riley) and Deceived by the Fallen (Noah, Alex and Evan)

You guys just played your first couple shows. How was that? RILEY: They went great! It’s always an amazing feeling seeing people come out and support us and all of our friends in the scene. We definitely plan on more shows in Waco and anywhere that we can. We want to make careers out of this passion! Two shows are coming up in June: the 8th and the 22nd.

What’s your favorite thing about making music and playing shows? ALEX: It’s fun! NOAH: Knowing that I’ve made my mark and utilized my time doing something creative and meaningful. RILEY: For me, it’s the crowd connection to something that we pour the other half of our lives into! EVAN: It gives me a space to express myself, outside of my personal life that can sometimes be overwhelming to a breaking point. CAMERON: It gives me a platform to express my thoughts and ideas and to connect with people emotionally and let them know that they’re not alone; we all share struggles that are worth talking about. Also, being able to pump up a crowd makes it worth it every time.

Do you guys plan to release anything on streaming? RILEY: We get our mix back for our debut single “My Worst Intervention Wasn’t My Own” in early May. Later in the month we will be releasing another single, “Violence and Timing”.

What are y’all’s opinions on the local scene? RILEY: There is a lot going against punk and metal culture in Waco so it makes it even more inspiring to see these shows happening and people working hard to get the scene where it should be with so many talented musicians making their way through Waco. CAMERON: I’m really hopeful for the scene. I’ve seen a lot of new faces and prospecting musicians wanting to jump into the fold and it makes me excited that I might be inspiring new musicians.

RASURA: We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to speak with barelylocal today. We are so grateful for this music scene that has given us an avenue to show our talents, given us a voice and potentially shooting us higher than we ever expected!

Make sure to check out Rasura’s debut single “My Worst Intervention Wasn’t My Own” and follow them on Instagram, @rasura.tx!

Photo by: Blake Burk

[watchingspnagain]

Rewatching Free to Be You and Me

Welcome to “Bert is to Ernie as Dean is to…: A Supernatural Rewatch Blog” with Lor and Mace!

Up today, s5e3: Free to Be You and Me

Sam and Dean have gone their separate ways for now, and this episode splits time between the two as they each have their own adventures. Sammy is incognito and working as a bartender, doing his best to stave off the annoying advances of a coworker, who eventually finds out that people who try to get close to him get held at knifepoint by hurt-butt hunters mad at Sam for starting the apocalypse then quitting the biz (or worse - EXPELLED). Meanwhile Dean and Cas go looking for Raphael to pump him for info on where God ran off to, the whole time giving each other Looks and throwing all sorts of poorly-disguised gay references at each other. Just make out, already, yeesh. Turns out Raphael is 100% that d-bag and God’s nowhere to be found. Dean and Cas then have a heart-to-heart in Baby, during which Dean claims he’s happier without Sam around. Cas smells manure. More tortured loving glances. THEN, cut to Sammy dreaming about Jess, who turns out to be Lucifer trying to gaslight his best vessel. Lots of fraught going on here, folks.

Mace:

Oh Sammy, quit sulking about that tart

Lor:

LOLOLOLOL

Mace:

I have jealousy issues

oh LOOKIT HIM

Lor:

well I mean you ARE way better than Jess

RIGHT?

Mace:

I appreciate the support

Lor:

shuttup not!Jess

Mace:

YES

SHUT. IT.

AND QUIT CALLING HIM BABY

IT’S DUMB

oh Sammy.

pets him

Lor:

seriously, Jess. Baby is the car. WATCH THE SHOW

Mace:

oof hot and naked and crying I CANNOT

HAHAHAHA

Lor:

lol

oh I forgot this song is in the show. Jensen sings this a lot at cons

Mace:

interesting

this montage is so good

Lor:

omg lemons versus vamp blood

Mace:

and so is that shirt on Sam

Lor:

YES

YES

aw Dean taking care of his things

Mace:

HAHAHA boundaries Cas

Lor:

"Don't do that!" LOLOLOLOL

Mace:

“hello Dean”

“my apologies"

Lor:

"personal space" oh hush, you know you like him in your personal space

Mace:

RIGHT?!

Lor:

"can I have my damn necklace back, please"

Mace:

oh lookit him getting right back in that personal space

Lor:

TMN angel haaaaahahahaha

Mace:

AND THE LOOKS THEY’RE GIVING EACH OTHER

Lor:

YAS

Mace:

come on, people, HOW DO YOU NOT SEE THIS

Lor:

HE JUST COMPARED THEM TO THELMA AND LOUISE YOU'D HAVE TO BE BLIND

Mace:

they are both so pretty

RIGHT??!

Lor:

Right? and they look so good together

Mace:

and Dean keeps licking his lips

THEY DO

Lor:

WHAT WAS THE LOOK DEAN JUST GAVE HIM OMG

Mace:

“I DIDN’T POOP FOR A WEEK”

Lor:

lololololol

Mace:

Dean just wants roadtrip time with Cas

Lor:

YES

Mace:

stop flirting with my stringbean, bitch

Lor:

RIGHT? even if you do have a cute smile

yes, barman grandpa, it does seem like the end of the world

Mace:

HAHAHA

Lor:

HE'S FIXING HIS TIE LIKE HE'S HIS WIFE

Mace:

YESYESYESYES

Lor:

"that's how you become president" lololol ow

Mace:

YES

THE BADGE MEME

Lor:

omg fixing the ID

YAAAAAS

Mace:

I LOVE YOU CAS YOU BUT WALNUT

Lor:

YES

Mace:

*big (But I’m okay letting but(t) stand)

Lor:

LOLOL

"pump and go" do they do this shit on purpose? they must

Mace:

HAHAHAHA

the DEMONS…DEMONS…DEMONS OMG

Lor:

"we all have our demons" lololol Dean

no, Kolchak

Mace:

“thank you” and the look

HAHAHAHA

Lor:

YES

Mace:

“jumps my bones” COME ON

Lor:

YEP

Mace:

omg Bobby’s snark

Lor:

I LOVE WHEN BOBBY DADS THEM

Mace:

YES

Lor:

"arid" I LOVE HIM

Mace:

YES

he brought Dean…oil…special oil...

omg Dean is using the last night on earth line HOW IS THIS NOT ON PURPOSE

Lor:

he is this close to giving him the "last night on earth" line

HAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

BERT AND ERNIE ARE GAY

Mace:

oh he’s had occasion, but he’s been waiting for Dean

Lor:

YAAAAAAS

Mace:

I MEAN COME THE FUCK ON

Lor:

HOW is that RELEVANT, DEAN? UNLESS

Mace:

RIGHT?!

Lor:

What the HELL would be wrong with "Keith Samuel"?

Mace:

right?

bitch, butt OUT

Lor:

i mean I wouldn't PICK it, but it's not BAD?

Mace:

agreed, esp with the package it’s labeling

Lor:

God that SHIRT

YES

Mace:

YES

READ THE ROOM, HAG

NO MEANS NO, BITCH

Lor:

RIGHT?

look, Dean, when you told him he wasn't gonna die a virgin, he was hoping for someone else

Mace:

RIGHT?!

he’s all mussed I CANNOT

Lor:

"this whole industry runs on absent fathers" you would know, Dean

RIGHT?

Mace:

RIGHT?!?@?@?!?!?!

“years…” oh honey

Lor:

oooof

you DO mean to pry stop it

Mace:

all you’ve been doing is prying you stupid horse

Mace:

HAHAHA

Lor:

LOL

nnnnnngggggg his deep ass voice speaking whatever that is. Enochian I guess?

Mace:

part fake Latin part nonsense

but yeah the voice is quality

Lor:

I have an advantage here in that none of it meant anything to me

Mace:

HAHAHA

Lor:

"I thought you were supposed to be impressive" DEAN

"by the way, hi, I'm Dean" OMG

Mace:

NICE

DED

Lor:

all casual taking a beer and then turning around and GLUGGING it because he's actually terrified

Mace:

YES

Lor:

THEY HAD A PLAN I LOVE THEM

Mace:

YES

Lor:

"don't look at me, it was his idea" and then the look to Cas like "sorry, hon"

Mace:

HAHAHAHA

Lor:

look, dude, demons ain't new

Mace:

it’s not his fault you’re incompetent at your job, idiot

HAHAHA

Lor:

lol

RIGHT?

Mace:

Meh, knife her, we don’t care

Lor:

okay, she's a pain, but hunters taking civilians hostage at knifepoint? come on, dillweeds

HA!

Mace:

Yeah

Lor:

look Raphael, if you think the 20th century was worse than all the rest of history, you have not been paying attention

Mace:

Daddy ran away- so angels are all prostitutes?

Lor:

"he didn't happen to work at the post office did he?”

Mace:

HAHAHA

Lor:

LOLOLOL

LORD he looks good

Mace:

YES HE DOES

Lor:

omg lookit Cas and Dean all rain spattered

Mace:

YES

Lor:

"but today you're my little bitch" DED

"what he said" HAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Mace:

WHAT HE SAID AHAHAHAHA

Lor:

mmmmmrrrg little peek at his back

Mace:

YES

but wtf is wrong with these a-holes?

Lor:

RIGHT?

Mace:

why can’t everybody just leave my Sam alone?!

Lor:

seriously

he does look kinda hot with blood all over his face though

Mace:

he really does

and all pissed

Lor:

YES

Mace:

oh so EVERYONE is a prostitute in this episode, then

Lor:

"who cares what some ninja turtle says, Cas. what do YOU believe?"

LOLOLOLOLOLOL

Mace:

YES

Lor:

oh Dean

Mace:

knocks him upside

Lor:

"and you're not that much fun"

you're not ALONE you DOPE you're with Cas

Mace:

right?

Lor:

oh ope. careful what you wish for, Chucklehead

Mace:

HA

Lor:

SAM WINCHESTER YOU ARE NOT THIS DUMB

Mace:

right?!

oh hey, Luci

oh god that tatt peeking out of his shirt

Lor:

RIGHT?

I LOVE THIS WHOLE STUPID SET UP SO MUCH

Mace:

YES

Lor:

they are PLAYING this as homoerotic and it still doesn't hold a candle to Cas and Dean just, like, standing next to each other

Mace:

NOPE

ooof. shit’s gettin’ real.

Lor:

YAAAAAS

[suguruslut]

Going to a concert

𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘩𝘶𝘴𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘴

<<< 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙖𝙩𝙨𝙪🐉| 𝙏𝙤𝙧𝙖🐅| 𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙖🐕 >>>

Gwen’s note: i saw mcr and angele in concert this year...the only thing missing was a househusband to hold my snacks...

🐉𝒯𝒶𝓉𝓈𝓊🍳

--as we know, Tatsu is really into rap music, so when you win tickets to see Agust D in concert, Tatsu flips his shit. dude won’t stop talking about it for all the months leading up to the concert. he actually makes Goda cry one time out of jealousy

--once the night arrives, Tatsu is over prepared, waiting outside the arena a good four hours before the show starts; nobody dared cut in front of you guys, and he was one of the first in line for merch, grinning proudly at your matching t-shirts

--he somehow got all his snacks and water bottles past security?? don’t ask how, he’ll never tell

--once you get in, Tatsu’s leading the way through the crowd with a gentle grip on your hand, making you drink water and sit at least for a few minutes since you’ll be standing and jumping the entire concert. the place is packed, but he assures you there’s no hitmen nearby

--definitely tears up when Agust D first comes out, then REALLY gets into it all while staying within concert etiquette. he sings all the lyrics, which he knows by heart, and it makes you smile to see him so happy and inspired

--dedicates each song to you, even though he didn’t write them; the only time this makes you cry is when he says it before AMYGDALA, his favorite off Agust D’s new album. Tatsu says it reminds him of how bad things were before meeting you, but now that you’re in it together, life and its choices seem a lot less difficult

-- immediately following the show and still riding the concert high... “I bet I can make my own mixtape! I found some great ideas on Pinterest...whattya think of that, Y/N?!”

🐅𝒯𝑜𝓇𝒶𝒿𝒾𝓇𝑜🍰

--Tora strikes me as a heavy metal kind of guy, always head banging and screaming his heart out whilst driving his kawaii crepe truck. when you surprise him with tickets to Beast in Black, he almost crushes your back with how tightly he hugs you

--listens to all their albums the week leading up to the concert, nonstop repeat so he knows all the words to every single song. luckily you love him, so you find it endearing to listen to him scream as loud as he can for most of the day. and pretend he knows how to play electric guitar

--doesn’t want to arrive early bcz that’s “uncool,” so you guys show up just as the concert is starting, Tora shoving his way through the crowd with you using him as a shield

-- “Outta the way, scrubs! A true fan is coming through!”

--literally pushes his way right up to the stage. you won’t be able to hear tomorrow, but how can you care about that when you see Tora’s face light up upon the band entering?

--he really did learn all the lyrics, screaming and singing with a grin on his face as he keeps one arm around you at all times, pumping his other fist in time with the music; you can’t believe how carefree Tora is acting, thinking you should bring him to heavy metal concerts more often

--One Night In Tokyo is his absolute favorite song, but he won’t admit to shedding tears after hearing it live. well, maybe just to you, because you got it on video for blackmail material

--for sure had you take a million pictures of him at the concert so he can brag to his friends (Tatsu) and frame some for your apartment

🐕ℳ𝒶𝓈𝒶🥡

--I can see Masa being very into trendy music, especially Jpop and Kpop. when he hears Band Maid is in town, he blows his last paycheck on two tickets; imagine his shock when you say you’ve never heard any of their songs

--by the time the concert comes around, let’s just say you now know every single song from each album, thanks to Masa overloading you with fandom info. you know each member, their life history, favorite foods, iconic looks, etc. etc. your husband is a major BM nerd, okay?

-- “I can’t believe you’ve never listened to them before! Here’s their first album, which I think was the third best out of all their albums, and here’s a list of the biggest venues they’ve played at, and...”

--should’ve put that boy on a leash...Masa gets lost at the venue at least five different times, always in search of the nearest bathroom and ending up in creepy hallways and surrounded by strangers

--they literally call your name over the speakers to come get him, lmao. once you clip him to your belt the concert starts, and the second the girls step on stage, Masa bursts into tears and squeals, though you’re not sure if it’s because he’s excited for the music or bcz they’re all wearing maid outfits...

--I think Masa would have a great singing voice, so it’s actually pleasant to hear him sing along with the band. you guys had pretty good seats, and Masa was taking endless pics and videos of both Band Maid and you two. before the concert was even over he set his wallpaper as one of your cheerful selfies, concert lights streaming over your faces

--dumbass didn’t even realize he bought backstage passes, and his favorite member, Misa (bcz her name is similar to his), actually signs his t-shirt for him, prompting him to pass out in your arms

--he’s just as elated when he wakes up as he was when he passed out, and will probably never stop talking about the time you two went to a Band Maid concert together

                                                        🐉 🐅 🐕

[fleurcareil]

South Saskatchewan

Next morning, I was super-efficient in packing up and left sharp at 7.45am (I've become even better at early departures in the Rockies, simply to avoid the crowds 🥴) as I had a long drive to do; over 600km to my next camping spot... Not sure I completely had thought this through when I booked it, but think I was lured by the 1-hour jump back in time when crossing into Saskatchewan, although the actual driving time stays the same of course!! 🤔

First Gmaps direction; turn left in 361km.... love it, those large-distance roads in Canada! 🙃 I was now officially on the Red Coat Trail but different to other provinces, I never saw any plaques or tourist info signs so I still don't really understand what it's about... I presume something with the army traveling west during the new frontier?? Now, it's just endless fields and sky which are pretty in their own right... Although I love my trees and forests, there's something special about this massive expanse of agricultural lands, a testament to human's ability to control the land. I did feel cheated, as the "Land of Living Skies" was yellow-grey both below and above the horizon with smoke turning everything dull... such a shame! On the way, there's really not much to see apart from the rare sunflower field 🤩, modern-day grain stores, cows and surprisingly lots of nodding donkeys that pump oil from the ground!

Close to half-way the province, I veered further south towards the US border onto gravel roads to see Castle Butte, a 200ft-high knoll left in the landscape during the Ice Age (not sure I trust that info, as I thought buttes are of volcanic origin). Looming high above the flat prairie land I tried to climb up it (where other people already were so I was not completely stupid yet) but it got too steep for my non-hiking shoes and then instead of coming down on my butt as I should have, I tried to walk it and ended up running at full speed down the slope... I got really extremely lucky I didn't fall and break any/all body parts!! 😳😳 I did end up semi-twisting both ankles which I still feel 2 weeks later, but instead of complaining I am grateful that that was the worst of it! Phew...

The adventures of the day didn't stop with that because a bit later I ran over and killed a duck! 😫 With lots of dark skid marks on the gravel, I only realized too late that there were 4 full-sized ducks sitting in the middle of the road and although I braked as much I safely could, I had no choice than to go over them and hope they all fit between my wheels... 3 survived (likely with a heart attack!) and one didn't. I've had very little roadkill in the 20+ years driving, and definitely nothing as big as this so that was quite upsetting!

My mood improved however when I arrived at Grasslands National Park, which consists of two blocks some 170km apart; the east block that I visited first protects a vast expanse of badlands, whereas the west block where I was camping that night represents Canada's largest tract of untouched native prairielands (which covered most of North America's central region until the settlers came ranching & farming). I'm trying not to overkill with pictures but both areas were very very pretty and I would urge anyone to make a trip out here!

On the east side, there's a few hikes but it was so hot that I simply drove along the Badlands Parkway with interpretative signs explaining the geology and the natural & human history of the area. The badlands seem at first glance quite monotone but then I discovered flowers, prickly pear cacti, gophers (ground squirrels of which I had already spotted lots on the road) and even a pronghorn antilope!

The clouds pushed by the wind kept changing the light patterns, highlighting in turn different hills, so it was great to sit for a while in a red chair and see the scenery constanly change.

Hot and tired, I made the trek to the other block passing enroute another grain elevator, after which I set up camp on the beautiful prairie without a single tree (with a fence though to protect against the bison)! My pic of the sunset doesn't do it justice, but you can imagine how pretty the sky was, and as this is a dark sky preserve, I stayed up late (after midnight, which doesn't happen often anymore 😜) to watch the Milky Way in its full glory.

The next morning, I had a clear task; prairie dog and bison hunting, which are the two key species of the park. A gopher (top left pic) had already been running all morning around my site (he shouldn't have built his hole next to the firepit), so when I spotted the first prairie dog (top right pic) in one of the park's colonies or "dog towns" I was a bit confused as they looked the same to me! 😂 Turns out the prairie dogs are about twice the size and much more afraid of humans, although they loved eating the dead bugs from my car bumper and tires 😍 which meant that although it was impossible to get up close while walking as the first prairie dog would bark to warn the entire colony and then all disappeared, they had no problem with the car being close to them... funny how humans impact nature in weird ways sometimes!

The bison were more elusive, as they truly don't like people, and although a herd of 500 of them is maintained in the park (with surplus animals being exported to other parks for reintroduction), the enclosed area is so large for them to roam in that they have plenty of places to hide. So I slowly made my way through the park with my binoculars on hand, learning along the way about a homestead that had managed to ranch cattle for a few years but then had to abandon because it was simply too hard to survive on the barren land, the different native grasses that make up the prairieland, a bison rubbing rock and a stone tipi ring, all the while enjoying the views.

And then finally, when I had given up and was enroute to the village to get gas, I first saw a lone bison chugging through the grass, and then at the outermost corner of the enclosure, suddenly there was a group of 40 bison, including a few calves, that were grazing and rolling in the dirt. I promise I could see them much clearer in my binoculars than the little black specks in the picture! 😁

By the time I got to the village a massive rainstorm broke out so good reason to drop by the visitor centre and confirm it was a golden eagle (much bigger than bald eagles) that I had seen on a pole. I first didn't understand the gas "station" set-up as you needed to pull some levers to get it going, but finally managed to fill up the car once more.

That evening, the skies blackened suddenly with a thunderstorm and the wind was so strong that the tent started sliding away (the neighbour's did blow away) so I threw in as many stones I could find, parked my car in front of the tent to form a bit of a windshield and waited it out in the car... no way I was going to stay in the tent on this flat land! Luckily the storm passed quite quickly after which I had a drink with my neighbours to laugh it out, but I did end up sleeping in the car (for the first time and quite comfortably!) as rain came & went with some more lightning in the night.

When I drove off in the morning towards the Alberta border, I finally got the promised Living Skies Land with blue skies and golden fields, seeing the Prairies in all its hues 😊 I also saw another (the same??) herd of bisons on the way out of the park as well as another smaller golden eagle and several antelopes 😍

After a relatively short drive, I arrived at the Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, which straddles the border between Saskatchewan and Alberta, consisting again of two blocks. Although I had planned again to visit the eastern block first and camp in the western one, a staff member pointed out that I was actually staying in the eastern block so that saved me another 1.5 hours drive! 👍 The park is unfortunately not very natural and has been developed as a resort with mini-golf, golf course, swimming pool etc so I was a bit disappointed. The nature that there is, is being protected because it's on a hill standing 500m above the plains so it was not glaciated and has therefore unique plant life (including trees) that doesn't occur anywhere else in the region but they haven't done a good job at protecting it! I had great internet at a viewpoint so ended up sitting on a bench there for 4 hours booking my next set of accommodations 😃 while occasionally hearing loud grunting lower on the hill which I presume was an angry moose so I didn't have any urge to go explore further!

Next day, I would be driving into Alberta, so this was Saskatchewan for now until I return further north on my way back. Adieu!

Wildlife: 1 coyote & 1 deer (Red Coat Trail), 100+ ground squirrels (gophers), 100+ prairie dogs, 43 bison in the afternoon and 50 bison in the morning, 2 golden eagles, 2 ferruginous hawks, 1 deer, 5 pronghorn antilopes (Grasslands), 3 red-tailed hawks & 3 deer (Cypress Hills)

SUPs: none

Hikes: no real ones, just lots of little sidetrips to viewpoints

Distance driven since the last map (I'm losing track of the weeks 😉 but it's been a while all the way from Sleeping Giant): 1,925 km

[sabattoir]

If you're doing a z-track technique (pulling the skin down while you inject so that the hole in the skin does not line up with the hole in the muscle), it's NOT recommended to massage due to the possibility of forcing the medicine into subcutaneous tissues and causing local trauma. But in cases for just straight injecting without z-track, it seems to be A-OK to massage. For some people it really helps, and for some it makes it hurt worse. It's your body and you know it best. Sorry to jump on, I just thought that was good info to add. There's not a whole lot of studies on massaging and if it definitively helps or hurts outside of the specific warning against massaging z-track injections, and most studies/reviews that are posted are old and/or directly say no conclusions should be drawn due to the small size of the study.

Also, the limit for subcutaneous injections is generally 2 ml for comfort and quick, standard injections but the tissue can actually accommodate quite a lot of fluid. I found a study on large volume SQ injections that supported 5-10 mL of fluid in the abdomen and thighs that were generally tolerated well and absorbed adequately (albeit with a visible and palpable wheal), however that was with a syringe pump and an injection time of 4 and 8 minutes respectively. It's probably easier to just do two injections, but if you hate sticking yourself twice and have a higher dose than 2 mL, it's worth talking with your doctor/pharmacist if that's something you'd like to try. I imagine it can be done with a regular syringe with just a very slow push time. In general, injecting slowly causes less pain.

PSA FOR TESTOSTERONE USERS!!

if you’re getting a lump/itchiness at the injection site, TELL YOUR DOCTOR!! you could be the 1 in 20 people who’s allergic to the most widely used formula of testosterone. how do i know this? turns out i’m 1 in 20 people! (the doctor gets very disappointed in you when you describe an allergic reaction as “probably normal, right?”)

there are other formulas out there! you don’t have to be itchy! who knew! (clearly not me)