#this blog will still make free designs!! but if you want more control over the result

[relaxxattack]

ok yeah lots of memes about how the shitty new UI is literally a direct carbon copy of twitter and we hate it because of that, yea yea

here’s some actual/extra reasons why the UI itself is shitty beyond the fact that it’s stolen from twitter (in just my personal opinion)

it’s claustrophobic as hell. the old UI felt breathable, felt like you could scroll and actually look at your posts, and now there’s enough shit going on on one page that it actually gives me a headache. (i’ve heard other people say this as well, so maybe it’s not just me that’s overstimulated by all the fucking noise on the dash?)

the ‘dash sorting’ (for you / your tags / what you missed) is way too high up the page now and appears crowded against the top where things like the bookmarks bar are on most browsers. not that anything in this new UI isn’t crowded.

i’ve seen it mentioned plenty already, but there’s quite a lot of unnecessary duplication-- as in, the same buttons that exist in the new left navigation panel show up on the right in blog view, which is just completely annoying and unneeded clutter.

the fact that post interaction options are all on the right side of the posts, but dashboard navigation is now all pushed to the far left of display, is extremely annoying. i’m right-handed, so it’s extra annoying for me to have to constantly go all the way over there. maybe that’s easier for left-handed people, but if the case was supporting diversity, why not just put an option in dashboard preferences to switch the side of ALL the controls? because the post interactions are still on the right.

while we’re on the subject-- tumblr’s original design was actually MUCH more intuitive and easy to navigate. the reason for this is that everything you needed to click was in one small area. you scroll up and down the dash, move slightly up to navigate (home/asks/notifications) and slightly down to the side to interact with a post (reblog/reply). extremely simple, easy to use, even ‘lazy + addicting’, which is what all social media studio exes are supposed to want right now. changing the ui to actually be more work and more frustrating to navigate seems completely opposed to what their obvious business strategy should be.

tumblr’s original design was also much more breathable, with the small icons in the corner looking organized and not taking up much space, and lots of room for the posts themselves to be the main attraction.

there’s the fact that copying someone else’s brand entirely actually just puts you in a bigger, wider pool with much more competition, and makes you much more likely to immediately fall short of that and go bankrupt.

tumblr's original purpose was to be geared toward blogs, and these updates, along with the writing on the wall about blog themes being completely phased out soon, is completely against the original purpose. although sometimes website purposes change for the better, so take that as you will.

and finally the obvious point that you can tell from all the memes: this change is almost universally hated by the core tumblr userbase-- aka the site’s loyal consumers for years and years. driving out their main demographic seems like a very obvious, very quick way to lose a lot of fucking money. they also did this “carbon copy of twitter” update literally just a week after sitewide protest about the idea of this site being anything like twitter, so it feels like a massive Fuck You to literally all of the users. tumblr is rapidly approaching their trust thermocline, and show no sign of slowing down.

these are just my opinions about the ui, and i’m only one person. so feel free to add on other design flaws you think people should be aware of or able to mention! i will probably also be submitting this post as feedback to staff, and will be taking their surveys when i can as well.

[soapyghostie]

I love Pyramid Head a whole lot, and i think he deserves all the kisses, he literally has to suffer because of other people sins, so i was thinking, there's this big teory that Pyramid Head uses this Pyramid in his head as a punishment, so he has to walk around with it all the time, but Masahiro Ito said he had a face, his words were:

"I didn't design & make Pyramid Head face, but have a image of inside of helmet in those days. It's a binded someone's head with many frames.", soo i was thinking about a very fluffy comfort fic, where after muchhh time convincing Pyramid its ok to talk his helmet off for some time, him and reader can finally cuddle in a completely comfortable way. Please feel free to deny, i love your work and i know this request may be a bit bad, lol! Thank you

Hey! Thank you Anon! I’m so glad you love my work! Plus, this was a great request! There is no such thing as a bad request on my blog. 😊 Hope you enjoy!

Pyramid Head

Unlike all the other monsters in Silent Hill, Pyramid Head was manifested from the guilt and sorrow of the ones who needed to be punished; to remind them of their sins. Moreover, Pyramid Head was never one of the humans that got turned into a monster from Silent Hill’s curse, but was created from a person’s imagination. He pretty much was born with his helmet. 

Pyramid Head has never taken his helmet off before, let alone has seen his actual face. He doesn’t need to. Him being the executioner, his job is to inflict pain on his victims for their wrongdoing. In wearing the helmet, it reminds others of the pain they’ve caused others and the pain that is about to be brought upon them. He loves his job and he’s proud to represent it by wearing his helmet.

It’ll take a lot of convincing for him to take his helmet off. To him, it feels like his actual face; it helps him feel like he belongs; it makes him feel strong, powerful, and masculine. Yes, he knows he has a human body and face; however, it makes him feel insecure to think about it. All the other monsters look nothing like humans, but he is the only monster who does. The helmet makes him less of a human and more of a monster, the scariest one at that. All fear him: monsters and humans alike. He has all the power and control in Silent Hill so why take his helmet off, you know? 🤷‍♀️ 

You have to reassure him. Trust me, it does the trick. You have to remind him that he is no less of a strong, powerful being with his helmet off than with it on. Then again, he’ll still hesitate to take it off. This his is first time taking it off since he’s existed so he is quite nervous. Nevertheless, he’ll do it for you. 🙂 

The day he finally takes his helmet off, praise him. Tell him how handsome he looks. Kiss him all over his face. Pyramid Head will get so flustered: it’s cute. He appreciates that you see him for no less than who he is without his helmet then with it on. He might take it off more often now. Seriously, he didn’t realize how the weight of his helmet was killing his shoulders. 

He’ll show a softer side of himself. You thought he already did have a soft spot for you, but just you wait! This is a side of him no one has ever seen before, not even you. 

Pyramid Head becomes a literal giant man child, always wanting to be held and kissed. He’ll follow you around like a lost puppy everywhere; he wants you to hold his hand and be near you all the time. 

He apologizes a lot for never trusting you with seeing his face. He was just so scared you’d turn him away and think of him as weak. He wants to be big and strong for you, to protect you. Not be weak. 

You have shown him what true love actually is. He never knew feelings until you came along, yet, he still struggled with showing them towards you. However, when you saw his face for the first time, you showed him kindness and love. He doesn’t know how it happened, but it just clicked. He actually felt something. He felt love and he understood it. He understood it was okay to be vulnerable around the ones that truly love you because they’d near judge you and loved you for you. 

You are the light in his dark world. You’ve taught him so much. Before you, all he knew was pain and suffering. Now, he knows kindness and love. He can’t thank you enough and he’ll never take it for granted. Bonus, he loves to take off his helmet now. He feels like he can be more himself than with it on. He sees there is much more to him than being the feared executioner of Silent Hill.

[spotofmummery]

Once More - On Creating a Personal Website

Over the weekend, I wrote the above post on my main blog about a new FREE webhost called Nekoweb. While I still use Neocities myself, I just wanted to toss this out here as an alternative, especially given where sites like this and WordPress are going in terms of the lack of your content's safety and your control of your work.

Learning basic HTML is pretty straightforward, and there's lots of templates out there to get you started. Once you get the hang of it, you might surprise yourself with how much fun you have designing your own site and not being held back by anyone else's design and content choices!

The cool thing is, you can make your own website, then link your stuff here (like I did above) to share it to any social media you like. But it's not TIED specifically to Tumblr or X or Bluesky because you host it somewhere else. So, you can still post it to social media to get the word out about your writing or art, while maintaining control of where it lives in the long run.

HTML files can be backed up. So if something happens to your host, as long as you keep your website files on your computer or other media, you can always turn around and upload it to a new host. No fear of having your stuff wiped forever because it's locked in a social media account database you can never reach.

Just some considerations!

[leth-writes]

Willpower (yandere Chrollo x reader)

Summary: You can bend anyone to your will... Anyone except Chrollo, apparently.

Warnings: brief discussions of gore, also there isn't too much yandere behavior in this, but if anyone wants a continuation just let me know! As always, my blog is 18+.

For as long as you could remember, others had been a bit… suggestible.

You weren’t sure why God had decideed to give you such an incredible curse, but hey, you were stuck with it, so might as well work with what you’ve been given.

It had started off small, as curses always do; suddenly, your parents were always changing their minds about buying you ice cream. Then, at school, your teachers would always forget they’d just asked you for your homework, and bullies’ eyes seemed to gloss over you, even if you were sitting right in front of them. It seemed that everyone around you suddenly got a whole lot more agreeable to your whims, going along without so much as a single complaint. At first, it was great; what kid wouldn’t want to be able to get out of homework and punishments?

The problem was, you couldn’t control it. You were stuck in a hell of your own design, always forced to consider whether someone actually wanted to be around you, or whether you’d accidentally bent their wants and needs to match your own. Friends would suddenly wake up, as though from a dream, and suddenly want nothing to do with you; your first crush slapped you after your first kiss, determined that you’d tricked them or something. Your whole life would periodically crash around you as you lost jobs and friends and opportunities, all because of some ability you weren’t even trying to use. You were forced to constantly wonder whether anyone actually liked you, or if they were just being mind-controlled into your unwilling puppets. You didn’t have much of a choice; it wasn’t like you could tell whether or not someone was being controlled, after all.

So you hunkered down and worked on your studies until you could graduate. Except, right before you were set to walk that stage and snatch your diploma, you’d been called into the principal’s office and confronted about cheating. Apparently none of your teachers could remember assigning you those high grades; as a result, you were expelled a week before you could graduate, left floating in the wind and doomed to repeat your failures.

Eventually, your parents seemed to wise up to what had been happening. Years and years of accidents left them highly resistant to your ability, leading them to seek out all manner of treatment. After the 15th exorcism, they seemed to just accept they had a monster for a child. It was then your family cracked, your father running away in the middle of the night without so much as a goodbye.

Your mother only got worse after that. She became highly paranoid, convinced you were out to get her, and suspicious over any impulse she got. She started locking you in your room and forcing you to wear a hideous muzzle, one that left scar after scar layered around your cheeks and digging into your soft flesh, just to make sure she was safe from influence. You weren’t allowed to talk to her, or to anyone in fact, locked in your room day after day, brought your meals by a maid who wore sound-cancelling headphones. You were trapped, locked away without much hope of being set free.

You wasted years in that cramped room, with that horrible metal muzzle on, wishing and hoping and pleading for your mother to arrive and announce it had all been a mistake, one she regretted dearly. You fantasized about her taking you out for ice cream, like she had when you were little, and wrapping you in a tight hug, apologizing profusely for hurting you. And yet, your dreams never came true. You would wake up in that hell, still stuck in place, fearing you’d be trapped until the day you died.

Finally, one night, you were woken up by a loud clanging sound, the noise the heavy door made when it opened. You bolted awake, sure someone was coming in the night to rescue you, only to see your mother. Here eyes were crazed in the dim, flickering light of the hallway, standing there panting with a knife in one hand.

“I’ve had enough of your bullshit!” She screamed, practically frothing at the mouth. You backed away, hands out to placate her. It didn’t work, and she swung the knife in a wide arc, trying to force you even further back.

“Every day, I can feel the whispers in the back of my mind! I’ve had enough, I need to cut you out!” She swung again, wildly, this time coming even closer. It seemed like this would be it; the day you were freed from your horrific curse. You didn’t want to die, but it seemed you had no choice.

Suddenly, your mother stopped, like a puppet whose strings had been cut. Her face went terrifyingly blank, and she jerked the knife up, plunging it in one fell swoop into her chest. Blood spurted over her white nightgown, and still, her face was dull, as though she’d already been drained of life. She collapsed to the ground, dead before she landed, crumpled in the corner like a cast-away doll. You stumbled over to her, uncertain and terrified, though you knew the truth; your mother was dead, and you needed to leave. You found the key to the muzzle and freed yourself, and you never looked back.

It had been years since that fateful day, years of carefully honing your abilities until you could control them like you would an extra limb. You practiced subtly nudging people, rather than tugging them under the current of your will, meaning most people were completely unable to notice your ability working on them. You made a living by cheating people, and while you hated being so dishonest, you didn’t have much of a choice; left without a name or a history, you were unable to obtain any documents, and as a result were unable to put down any permanent roots. You moved from town to town, staying only until people started to become suspicious, and then you were off. You were careful to not become too close to anyone, limiting any contact only to your work.

Today, however, would be the day that everything changed. You were going to rob that stupid auction, and you would earn enough money from selling the artefacts on the black market to finally find a little house and settle down in the countryside. You could picture the soft bedsheets and lazy mornings already!

You’d already worked your way down into the bowels of the auction house, planning on sneaking your way backstage to get your pick of the artefacts before they were sold. You didn’t bother wearing a disguise, you didn’t plan on staying, though you turned the attention of anyone you came across away from you.

You’d already heard the stories about the previous attempt at this year’s auction; apparently an entire room of people, possessions and all, had just… vanished. You wondered if someone else had an ability?

Part of the reason you were so determined to hit this specific auction, you thought privately, was the desire to see if there was another like you; you were tired of feeling alone, of feeling isolated, and having someone else that could understand would be the best-case scenario. It never hurt to do a little investigating, after all.

The auction house was large and ornate, made of gold pillars and massive chandeliers. Yet, the servants’ halls were small and cramped. You supposed that was a universal constant; those high society wanted kept out of the light were forced to scurry around in the dark, scrambling for scraps as the guests gorged themselves on the richs of the world.

You had started off feeling so guilty about taking even the rotted food from the kitchens of the wealthy; years of seeing the truth, the reality behind the sheer silk film that separated the world of the richest from the rest had drained that anxiety from you. You knew now that they most likely wouldn’t even notice anything was missing; no one would remember these items in even a week. It was entirely a vanity project.

Finally, you arrived backstage. There were dozens of crates, massive and wooden, lining the back of the dark area, all clearly stuffed to bursting with precious artefacts worth millions. Shaking off your thoughts, you set to work.

Sorting through the crates was hard work, but you quickly created a pile of items you knew no one would miss, mainly gold and jewels. The people who would be bidding on these wouldn’t even notice they were gone; they had no idea what was in their current collection, after all. You knew you’d hit quite a lot of the people in the crowd, and yet none had noticed when you’d pilfered the artefacts they’d once been so excited to collect.

You were startled out of your work by the clearing of a throat. Confused, you whipped around; shit, had you let your abilities slip?

Standing in front of you was an entire collection of people. They were a haphazard group, each dressed completely differently, yet all staring calmly at you. It seemed they were able to pierce through that thin film you’d set up to keep anyone from spotting you. You let out an exasperated sigh, frustrated with yourself; what was the point of practicing for hours if you were just going to slip up every time you stopped paying attention for 5 minutes?

You held up a hand, focusing on the pulsing of their wills. They were stronger than most people, and it took significant effort to turn them away, but you finally did, sweating and panting with the effort. Why was it so hard?

The group ignored you, finally under the reach of your abilities, and began talking of their plans to rob the auction house. You gleaned that they were the ones responsible for the disappearance of the other patrons. Maybe they had similar abilities? Fascinated, you placed the artefacts you had chosen in your bag and sat back to watch. You were surprised they were even able to get back there, security was tight, after all. You’d even heard talk of famous assassins patrolling the halls.

Still, you watched as they sprted through the crates. Each item was carefully pulled out and placed in front of a young boy with incredibly long hair, who placed a hand on it and seemed to pull a copy out of thin air. They appeared out of nowhere; first a blur, then an exact copy, like magic. You’d never seen something so incredibly, so cool! You guessed that this was truly a group with magic powers, even stronger than your own!

The group bantered back and forth, seemingly old friends, as they puppeteered the auction, the tall lady with the short hair bringing out each copy for the auctioneer to sell. Ecstatic to finally see someone with a power like yours, you followed them to the abandoned building it seemed they were living in.

They all sat around, drinking and laughing, seemingly enjoying the spoils of the evening. You wanted, for the first time in years to let those walls down and finally settle down, maybe make some friends?

It was then you noticed him. The seeming leader of the group, clad only in a fur coat and leather pants, hair pulled back to expose a cross tattoo on his forehead. He radiated power in a way you hadn’t ever seen before, and he was staring right at you. Frantic, you checked your ability, only to see that everyone’s wills were under your control except his. Shit.

You pulled on his will, and his stare seemed to waver before hardening again. “Who are you?” He questioned, eyes hard and blank. Just like that, the other wills snapped from your control, and the group turned to you as a collective, the mirth from the moments before drained away.

“What the fuck?” The tall blond man in the tracksuit said, seemingly enraged.

“Did you not notice you were being followed?” The leader intoned, voice cool and collected.

A collective no raised from the group.

You were fucked, completely fucked! “Shit!” You squeaked, holding your hands up. “I-I promise I wasn’t trying to hurt you or-or spy or anything! I was just curious, I saw you all at the auction!” You explained, hurredly, backing away.

“Ah, just curious, were you?” The leader said, standing slowly. “And how did you manage to sneak past some of the best fighters in the world?” He approached, almost cautious as though he’d scare you off.

“I… I have an ability, like yours…” You said, pointing to the small boy with the long hair.

“An… ability?” The leader said, stopping in his tracks.

“I can bend people to my will, but I promise I only stopped them from seeing me! I didn’t do anything else!” You explained, backing up until your back hit the wall. The group’s anger seemed to drain away, genuine curiosity flitting across each face.

“Ah, how interesting. And you’ve never met anyone else with this ability?” The leader asked.

You shook your head.

“How would you feel about joining my little group, then…?”

You nodded, and your life changed forever.

[a-roguish-gambit]

Hi there I love your design for a Romy fankid, she is so cute!!! I was wondering do you have any headcanons about Rogue's pregnancy with her? I bet Gambit was the most ecstatic father to be ever!! Anyways that's all I wanted to ask. Love your blog :)

Oh yesssss well it goes in few directions

One if she has control of her powers, and two if she hasn't.

#1 If she has control of her powers:

Girl has been touch starved for years. Once she can touch people she cannot keep her hands off of Gambit. It's only a matter of time till she gets pregnant.

When she does, the mutant morning sickness is NASTY

She's having weird bouts of powers she's previously absorbed. Just split seconds of them after sudden nausea.

Girl is terrified she has lost control of her powers again some how goes straight to Hank.

After assurance that she's just pregnant she's now nervous how Gambit will react

They weren't planning for kids after all. What if he doesn't want it? He seems like the child free type of guy

He's overjoyed tho. Lifts her up and swings her around

Cooks her all kinds of BS. Pulls out the old family cookbooks, steals a few old family cook books from the assassin's guild, sweet talks some old church ladies into giving up their secret recipes.

Makes her non alcoholic banana foster and versions of their favorite fruity drinks

Baby shower is incredibly extravagant and weirdly themed like a casino. Cause he thought it would be fun

There is no gender reveal party but Remy does take bets on the birth gender at the shower. Cause he is a gambling man. Options are: doctor will say girl and be right, doctor will say boy and be right, doctor is wrong about the gender, doctor mentions any obvious mutant traits before the gender (winner gets to pummel doctor for this)

He's not over bearing or super protective. She's still rogue she can handle things herself

He will spoil the fuck out of her tho. Relentlessly.

Instead of pink or blue they go for royal purple for the baby's room.

He handles her mood swings ok. To him it's just rogue but more

Gambit talks to the baby in her belly often pretends to have conversations

Remy talks to the baby bump in Cajun french. Wants the kid to be bi lingual

He comes up with ridiculous nicknames for the baby which last beyond the birth despite rogue's best efforts to stop him

Rogue dealing with worries about being a good mom considering her history with moms, biological and adoptive

Gambit fucking adores how her body has changed. Absolutely worshiping her at times. She's so confused. "Ah feel like a potbelly pig and you think this is sexy? Ah always knew you were a strange man Remy...."

Gambit Will fight any doctor that tries to refuse to take her. So will rogue even while currently in labor

Gambit accepted from the start his hand was gonna get broken in that ER and takes a shot of whiskey and marches in there like a man when it's time to push.

Rogue cries when the baby is born. Refuses to let anyone hold her for a while, clutches her close

#2 Rogue can't control her powers but gets pregnant anyways

Rogue and Gambit still have sexy times but with lots of body cover and condoms obviously.

The condom broke at some point not enough to cause skin to skin contact but enough to let stuff through

Neither of them realize that she gets pregnant from this for a few months

They didn't think she could she thought she'd essentially just miscarry cause of her powers

When she finds out she panics. Gambit is excited but she's so worried she's gonna kill her own baby on accident

Which Gambit knows that much worry will absolutely cause a miscarriage

So his goal is: keep her lowkey as possible

House husband mode engaged.

Rogue is acting reckless for a bit. Sure she's gonna miscarry or it's just gonna disappear one day. Pushing to keep fighting and working like normal. Refusing to plan for the baby to come. Gambit catches her trying to drink coffee and take Tylenol to deal with nausea

They have an argument. Gambit finally says "Does rogue actually want dis bebe? Just be honest wit Gambit. I will understand!"

She breaks down. Admits she wants it but doesn't want to get her hopes up.

"my powers can only destroy things it's only a matter of time before this poor thing suffers the consequences"

He calms her down "you don know dat, chere. Da bebe has survived dis long...mebbe dey Gon be fine cause dey part of you?"

"what about after they're born huh? What if I can't hug my child without hurting them remy? What kind of mother will I be if I can't nurse, I can't kiss my child's forehead, can't hold them close."

"you'd still be a good mama. Cause you already worrying so much bout dem. We'd find a way to make sure our baby knows how much you love dem."

This calms her down

he convinces her to get an ultrasound the next day and she tears up when she sees the little thing, moving around she renews hope.

She's celebrating every little milestone.

Some nights staying up late talking to her baby in her belly

"I may not be the best mama....I'm sorry if I can't hold you as close as some can their own....but I will love you no less. No matter how you come out."

They pick out special mittens for rogue to hold their baby. Get a breast pump so she can still give milk. All just in case.

When she gives birth Gambit is there with a falconry glove. He knows his hand is still gonna be broken but she needs to still be able to touch it.

When the baby is finally born a nurse hands her to rogue cause she doesn't know her powers

She shrieks at first as her skin touches hers....but as skin touches skin nothing happens

She cries in relief as she's able to hold her baby, nuzzle her close

3# she can't control her powers and She can't get pregnant because of her powers....but they have a forge to solve this problem

Gambit and rogue want to have a baby but don't think they can have one

They go to forge and Hank for advice cause a human fertility clinic would be no use

The two have come up with a perfect solution: an artificial womb. It still needs to be surgically attached for blood flow between parent and child and delivering nutrients but it can be attached to any person, female or male or non sex individual.

Gambit volunteers to carry

Rogue is concerned for him thinks he lost his mind but he insists

It's attached to his belly and grows as the baby needs space with a set due date. It's heavy already to start with, and is just gonna get worse

Has to be on a strict diet to make sure the kid is getting good nutrition. Also hormones have to be introduced daily to the amniotic fluid For the baby's sake. Thankfully don't affect him too much

But he does get some mood swings as a result and tiredness.

And his back hates him.

But it's worth it for the baby.

The worst part is not being able to drink

mardigras is the WORST this time round

Calls himself the world's saddest king cake

"da tings Gambit do for ya feve"

Also yes his nickname for the baby while in the incubator is "feve" cause it looked like a bean when they first saw it on scans.

He's slightly upset about being left behind on missions for a while until he realizes it means he can be lazy with his cats

Rogue is concerned at first. Feel this is all a bit uncanny, but loves being able to cuddle the baby belly and gets used to it quickly

He's constantly talking to the belly like he's having convos with the baby. States the baby's "arguments to things" (really his)

Rogue feels a little insecure about not being the one to carry at first. Like she doesn't deserve to be called mom but over time gets used to it.

They have a heart to heart about it

Starts joking that Shes the dad and he's the mom.

The birth is easy, chamber gets opened and baby pops out like a literal bun in the oven. but the womb has to be surgecally removed after wards.

Daddy has to recover but he gets cuddle time with baby first.

Also rogue can touch her baby still in this one

Aaaaaaand that's it!!!!

[whatudottu]

Because I've been steamrolled by another character to hyperfixate on completely out of the blue, I feel the need to talk about TFA Soundwave and his siphonophoric ass- yes, I said siphonophore, now read under the cut to find out more-!

Aside from me now suddenly getting attached to another minor character (not as fucked over as Skyke but an extra episode is STILL just 2 total episodes), I caught the curiosity bug and looked a little deeper into this bastard, and here I am sharing it.

As a refresh, Soundwave in TFA was a 'gift' for Sari with the actual motivation to be used as Megatron's new body; the method to do so being the Key and the Allspark energy it uses. Now, in terms of all the Earth sparked cybertronians (not to be confused with Earthspark), you can probably pit the two types of mecha into 'Key-born' and 'shard-born'. You get the Dinobots as the first Earth cybertronians firmly in the 'key-born' category and the Constructicons (+plus unrelated Wreck-Gar) in 'shard-born', and considering the methodology used to make Soundwave- well- SOUNDWAVE was the Key, you'd also think that he'd also be as such fitting in with 'robots Sari tampered with and Megan profited off of'.

Well- to say that Soundwave's transformation from simple Earth music bot to fully forged and sparked cybertronian was actually complete would be - perhaps - a lie.

Megatron had originally wanted Soundwave to at the very least stick around Sari long enough to fully upgrade into his new body, his cybertronian body fueled on by the Key and it's Allspark energy, and to probably remain under his command just long enough for a transfer of some sort. It is Soundwave's act of defiance, a shock to even Megan, that cut the ties between the full frame upgrade and the actual upgrading of his processor.

It was Soundwave's rebellion against the (presently) organic Sari that prevented him from being 'Key-born'.

That's not to say he isn't sapient, more that it is to say he's significantly more different in comparison to other Earth-born cybertronians.

Soundwave becomes the Soundwave Megatron designed him to be only after making the upgrade himself, with a lot of smaller Detroit robots serving as the materials to build up his frame, himself the personification of the Earth robot revolution. And when he is summarily defeated by Bulkhead (and later by Optimus in 'Human Error') all the parts that were his body shattered into the scrap parts of possessed robots passed their usefulness. All that remained of Soundwave was a little section of his original make that just so happened to be where the Key would be used.

Soundwave became a little cassette.

Bestie I swear to god-

Seeing as how his minicons Laserbeak and Ratbat don't transform into cassettes themselves (bass and keytar respectively), plus are probably part of the 'shard-born' half of Earth cybertronians, I think that it'd be a fucking hilarious reversal if the Cassetticon for the Soundwave fam was SOUNDWAVE HIMSELF! Like, if it ends up that Laserbeak and Ratbat have more cybertronian of a spark than this bitch then his siphonophoric ass has got to find that fucking shard-

And yes, back to siphonophores.

So, I love me some siphonophores, love the bitches that group together to form one being, love me that so much. I think if Soundwave were a siphonophore cybertronian frametype, it would certainly fit with the whole hypocrisy of his mentality, of unleashing a 'robot revolution' by uh... mind controlling robots to be free from their servitude by organic hands.

His spark's in the right place (buried deep within minibots or toy Soundwaves) but perhaps being like a day's worth of being vaguely sapient might kinda skew that revolution to be 'i want you to be free the way I define free' and boop I've made another mind controller a siphonophore eep-! (would be a great time to put in a link, were it not a link to a collab with a friend's deactivated blog and also not even transformers related 😔)

Considering the title of siphonophores in a more general sense are 'colonial species', a Soundwave built up as a colony of robots (so far only Detroit tech robots) and presents himself as this signal for a revolution, I think it's awfully fitting that the mentality of 'be free MY way' could be boiled down to 'be my body'. Because as a cassette - or perhaps more a cassette RECORDER or tape deck - Soundwave literally cannot move and has to rely on his music in order to get anything done, to get others to do the things he needs them to do FOR HIM. To escape from the Autobots a second time he needs Laserbeak - one of the instruments TO HIS VERY MIND CONTROLLING MUSIC - to snatch him out of there to rebuild another day, to gather enough stray robots to become a colonial system of machines in order to function as 'cybertronian'.

I just... think I really like siphonophores, man. I think they're real neat little cities, yeah? And I think Soundwave's network of robotics is just being head by someone who's like... idk give or take a few Earth months/years between Sari's season 1 birthday and Earth's season 3 Christmas old, significantly less than even the youngest of young bots (though Dirtboss and the Luna-born clones are like... the youngest newsparks) and most certainly an age that even humans would find young.

Idk, maybe Soundwave using all this Earth tech is not getting the parts that he actually needs to be actually officially a cybertronian, even if perhaps he remains a siphonophore type frame. Perhaps, with a special delivery from Megan himself all the way from Kaon, a colony of cybertronian made minicons could help connect the missing piece.

Eh, I'm just rambling at this point.

Anyway; *rotates TFA Soundwave in my head* *rotates TFA Soundwave in my head* *rotates TFA Soundw-

[steppingstonesuniverseguide]

One More Step Out of the Pit: Chapter 12/26

Summary: It had been Tommy and Tubbo for practically forever. They clawed their way out of hell together. They discovered their superpowers together. They started working for the Superhero Guild together before even coming of age. Tommy probably owed Tubbo his life ten times over. So, when the three supervillains he'd been assigned to bring in managed to take Tubbo hostage, well, there was really only one thing to do.

He knew, of course, he was signing himself up for torture and death by offering that trade, but that was okay.

It'd have to be okay.

AO3 Link (See AO3 for Warnings.)

(This story is finished and has been posted on AO3 for a while, but I'm posting it on Tumblr so it's somewhere else too (considering the day AO3 was down a bit ago). The author notes will all be kept as well. If you are following the blog and don't want to see these posts, block the tag #backlog.)

Author Note: Flashing gif in end author notes.

Tommy found himself tapping his fingers on his knee as he did his best to pay attention, or at least feign paying attention to the magazine Philza had let him read. It was boring as shit, one of those free ones you got in the mail about interior design. Considering Tommy did not have a house, did not have money to furnish a house, and probably would not be living through the week, it was pretty useless to him.

Philza shot him yet another odd look as he turned the page to see some weird couch that did not look at all comfortable. He was probably wondering why Tommy had chosen this magazine out of all of the reading material he’d been offered. Tommy was actually pretty sure he hadn’t even realized it was in the pile before Tommy picked it out. It’d probably just fallen out of the junk mail pile.

Tommy just smiled like he was having the time of his life and continued to read. The problem was, while he’d rather read literally anything else right now, he really did not want to get into the reading comprehension level discussion with a supervillain, because he knew how to read! He did! Tubbo had taught him but, uh, Tubbo… wasn’t particularly good at reading despite having someone to teach him up until he was 10, but they got by! Anyway, the point was, the selection of books Philza had brought him and even the other magazine with the lions on the cover had very small, very complicated words in them. Tommy refused to spend the last days of his life trying to sound out stupid complicated words.

…

He’d just spend the last days of his life staring at weird couches. How did people even sit on those things? Why were rich people like this?

He bit his lip and tapped his finger faster. He’d felt weird for the past couple of hours or so. There was energy buzzing under his skin for some reason Tommy couldn’t identify. He felt a strong urge to get up and start pacing or running or bouncing. He would really, really like to power bounce up a large hill and then control fall down it right about now, and the fact that such a thing wasn’t an option just made the horrible skin buzzing worse. Was this anxiety? Was he having an anxiety attack? Tubbo sometimes had anxiety attacks. They didn’t look like this, but maybe people were different. He certainly had reason to have anxiety attacks since he was basically literally reading a magazine in death’s waiting room.

He was pulled from his thoughts by the sound of the door beeping and then opening. Whippoorwill walked into the room looking far more casual than the other times Tommy had seen him. He still wore his mask, but he was dressed down in a pair of grey sweatpants and a cozy looking yellow sweater. He also had a guitar case on his back.

“Alright, old man,” he said without preamble. “It’s 10 o’clock. Senior citizen bedtime. Chop, chop.”

Tommy wasn’t sure what expression crossed Philza’s face, but it certainly wasn’t enthused. Tommy looked intently down at the magazine in his lap. Yet, instead of making Whippoorwill bleed for the insubordination, Philza just stood from the chair he’d pulled up next to the bed.

“Alright mate,” Philza said to Tommy. A hand descended on his shoulder and Tommy went still under it, as confused as he’d been every time he’d done something like that today. Why was he so touchy? Was it supposed to be a power move like when Dream would shove him around by the shoulder? If so, he was doing it wrong. It didn’t feel like a power move. “I’m going to go get some shut eye and be back in the morning. Whippoorwill will stay with you and will be on his best behavior.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Whippoorwill said in response to the reminder. “We’ll be fine.”

Philza squeezed Tommy’s shoulder softly and shot him a smile before gathering up the heavy thermos. He poured out the last bit of tea left into a paper cup and took the empty thermos and the books with him. “Night,” he said before closing the door leaving Tommy and Whippoorwill alone.

Whippoorwill moved closer once the door snapped closed and Tommy eyed him warily as he approached. Whippoorwill was the one who hated him the most and, while he was not supposed to be touching Tommy by Philza’s order, the older man would not be coming back for, what, 8 hours? He’s sure Whippoorwill could figure out something that didn’t leave marks in the meantime, especially with his powers. He considered the bag the villain had brought in with suspicion when he plopped it on the bed, but to his surprise nothing nefarious came out of it.

“Alright,” he said. “Toothbrush, toothpaste,” he tossed the items onto the bed next to Tommy’s legs. “Comb, a change of clothes if you’d like, and…” he paused staring into the bag. “That’s it. That’s everything in the bag. Are you going to want to try walking to the sink or do you want me to bring you over cups of water?”

“Uh, I’ll walk,” Tommy said. “I was able to make it to the bathroom just fine earlier.”

“Do you want to finish the tea first?” he asked.

Tommy shook his head. “It’s cold by now anyway,” he said, already shifting slowly to work on getting out of the bed. Whippoorwill hovered over him as he walked to the sink to brush his teeth. Either to make sure he didn’t fall or to make sure he didn’t try to sharpen it into a weapon, Tommy didn’t know. He was annoying as hell though. Luckily, he was left alone to use the toilet and change in the small room for that purpose, but he was right back to hovering while Tommy washed his hands afterwards. It was bizarre just going through a casual night routine while a prisoner locked in a room with one of his greatest enemies.

“Do you need more pain meds?” Whippoorwill asked as he observed Tommy wincing as he walked back to bed.

“I’m good,” Tommy replied.

“You seem sore,” Whippoorwill commented. Was he really trying to push for wasting pain meds on Tommy? To be fair, Philza had too. He couldn’t quite figure out why, but he did know he didn’t want his brain all foggy, so he shook his head.

“I’m fine. Philza got me some a bit before he left. They’re just taking a bit to kick in,” he lied.

He settled back into bed, his body both crying in relief because moving hurt and in frustration because moving around had helped him feel a little less like things were crawling around under his skin.

“Alright,” Whippoorwill declared once Tommy was settled again. “Bedtime.” There was no room for argument in his tone as he walked over to dim the lights enough that he could still see, but theoretically Tommy could sleep. Except… Tommy wasn’t tired.

Well, he was tired. He was exhausted actually, but he could already tell his body would not be sleeping anytime soon by the way his blood was pumping through his veins. He stared at the ceiling for a long few minutes.

“Do fish piss?”

“What?” Whippoorwill asked. He’d taken a seat in the chair Philza had vacated. “Yes. They’re animals.”

“I had a goldfish once. It died.”

“O-oh.”

“I think if goldfish could talk, they’d be right pissed at the world. Don’t you? Stuck in stupid little tanks and fishbowls ‘till they died. I’m never getting a goldfish again.”

“Uh, I mean…”

“You know what animals would probably be the biggest prick if they could talk? Cats. I bet it’d be cats. What do you think?”

“I think you should go to sleep,” Whippoorwill said.

Tommy frowned at him and then turned to face the ceiling. He started to jiggle his leg.

“That’s not sleep,” Whippoorwill said.

“Yeah, no shit,” Tommy spat back.

Whippoorwill was quiet for a moment. “Not tired?”

Tommy made a frustrated noise. “I’m not sure what I am. I’m all jittery.”

He looked over at Whippoorwill to see him glancing at the cold cup of tea on the nightstand. “Do you drink coffee, tea, or soda often?” he asked.

Tommy squinted at him. “Coffee’s gross, I thought tea was gross, and soda���s too expensive.”

“Yeah, you probably have a caffeine high since Philza physically could not stop himself from feeding you tea all day, and you’re not used to it.”

“Oh,” Tommy said. Now that he thought about it, he’d heard of caffeine highs before, but more from coffee and energy drinks. Wasn’t tea supposed to relax you? “Well, that sucks. This sucks. When do you think it’ll wear off?”

“How many did you drink today?”

“I don’t know,” Tommy answered. “Like 6.”

“6 refills of the thermos?”

“Yeah.”

“Yeah, you’re not sleeping tonight.”

Tommy groaned.

“Unless,” Whippoorwill said. “I could play you a song to help you sleep if you’d like.”

Tommy looked at him. “Like what you were doing when I woke up this morning?”

“Yep. I can sing you a song like that again, maybe with some words to make it a bit stronger. I’d be able to overpower the caffeine and let you sleep.”

Tommy bit his lip, but really he could do some weird singing thing to Tommy without his permission if he decided to anyway and it had been kind of nice before he’d woken up completely. “You’d do that?” he asked.

He nodded and reached over to grab the guitar case he’d set down next to him. He unzipped it and pulled the instrument out, settling it on his lap. “What would you want the song to be about?” he asked.

Tommy grinned. “Women and drugs.”

Whippoorwill cocked an eyebrow. “Are you old enough for women and drugs?” he asked skeptically.

“Hey! I’m a man! A big strong man! I’m older than you, probably.”

“Sure, Gremlin,” Wilbur replied. “Oh! There’s an idea,” he said and then began to sing. “There once was a gremlin with a head of blond hair. Whose temper and smell made a horrible pair. He’s annoying as fuck with a nose like a trunk. He’s truly a thing from my worst nightmare.”

“Fucking asshole,” Tommy muttered even as his eyelids flickered, the tune washing over him warm and soft even while the lyrics were lies and slander. The buzzing in his veins slowly petered out. Whippoorwill smiled at him as he relaxed against the pillows.

“So, go to sleep little gremlin, for I need a break, from the words that you spew when you are awake.”

“I’ll fuckin’,” Tommy paused to yawn. “I’ll f’in cut ya if ya don. Ya don…”

A soft laugh reverberated through the air without messing up the rhythm of the song. Tommy didn’t hear the next verse.

Tommy woke up to the weird caffeine buzz again and silence in the room. He groaned softly. Whippoorwill must have stopped singing and the caffeine took back over. Sighing, he let his eyes flicker open only to come face to face with Whippoorwill slumped over in his chair, face planted onto the bed, and snoring. Well, that explained why he wasn’t singing anymore. Tommy studied his sleeping face for a few minutes. Man, he wished he had a can of shaving cream and a feather right about now.

Sighing, he shifted slowly to push himself up into a sitting position while rubbing the sleep out of his eyes only to see a figure standing at the end of the bed staring at him.

“Hello Tommy,” it said.

Tommy yelped in surprise, making Whippoorwill stir slightly. As he did, the thing in front of him flickered a bit, disappearing for a second before coming back into focus.

“Shh,” the thing said. “You’ll wake him up.”

Holy shit, Tommy thought. Is this what caffeine does to you? He was never drinking caffeine again. Yet, the nightmare hallucination did not fade away as he pinched his own arm.

“I’m not a dream, Tommy,” it said, sounding amused. “At least not yours.”

“What the fuck,” Tommy breathed. It was the figure of a man, but the shape was not defined, faded at the edges. It was in a… startling familiar yellow sweater. Tommy glanced to Whippoorwill to see that, yep, it was an exact match except the one on this person(? Creature?) had a large rip down the middle with something that looked like blue ink staining the fabric around the gash. Its eyes glowed faintly as he watched Tommy.

“It’s okay,” it soothed. “I’m not here to hurt you.”

“I… what?” Tommy asked. “What are you?” The more he looked at it, the more and more unnatural the being in front of him looked.

“I’m a ghost,” it claimed. “At least, sort of. You can call me Ghostbur.”

“Ghostbur,” Tommy repeated. He was still ½ convinced this was a weird dream. “You’re a ghost?”

“Yep!” he said. “His ghost.” He pointed at Wilbur. As he did so, the guitar hanging perilously in the man’s sleeping grip began to slip. Ghostbur threw out a hand despite being too far away to reach it and Whippoorwill’s came up at the same moment, grabbing the guitar and then lowering it carefully onto the ground without the sleeping man ever stirring or moving anything but his arm.

“That… is the fucking weirdest shit I’ve ever seen,” Tommy said. Ghostbur just smiled serenely. Despite his absolutely unnatural appearance, his voice and mannerisms had been fairly chipper and kind so far. Tommy studied him carefully for a few long moments. “You look fucking scary as shit,” he informed him.

Ghostbur nodded seemingly not at all insulted by this statement. “Dad thought I was sleep paralysis for years,” he divulged.

“Your dad?”

“Phil!” the ghost proclaimed.

“Philza’s your…dad?” Tommy asked. That might explain a couple of things. “Wait, his name is Phil? Did he really just… add a ‘za’ to his name and call that a supervillain identity?”

“Uh huh,” was the earnest reply. “And Technoblade’s my itty-bitty baby brother.”

“You… you’re all related?”

“Well, Dad and I adopted Technoblade when he was 6, but yes!”

Tommy gave himself a few moments to absorb that. “Technoblade?” he finally asked.

“That’s his name!”

“What kind of name is Technoblade?”

Ghostbur shrugged. “He was born in the Nether. I wanted to rename him Jeremy, but Dad said no.”

“Blade’s from The Pit?” Tommy asked, shocked. “Wait, no. That actually explains a lot.”

The ghost hopped a bit to ‘sit’ on the bed, crisscrossing his legs and settling in front of Tommy, though he was actually hovering a few inches over the bedspread.

“How’d he escape the barrier?” Tommy asked. He’d never heard of anyone else escaping The Pit, though to be fair, he’d never broadcasted the information that he had to the public himself.

Ghostbur shrugged. “He doesn’t like to talk about it.”

Tommy bit his lip in thought. “What’s your name then?” Tommy asked, “or well, his name, I guess.” He nodded at the sleeping figure. Ghostbur wasn’t wearing a mask, he realized. This must be what Whippoorwill’s face looked like, baring the glowing eyes and blue tinge. “I don’t know how this works.”

“Wilbur,” Ghostbur told him cheerfully and without any regard for his own secret identity.

“So, all of your supervillain names… involve parts of your names?”

“Yeah!”

“You know that’s stupid, right? What’s my name supposed to be? Big Tomman. Wait, no, I actually kind of like that.”

Ghostbur laughed at him, the sound soft and wispy. He was looking at Tommy in a weird way. His bizarre glowing eyes were… doing a thing. He was a lot more chill that his awake/alive counterpart. Almost too chill considering he’d just given him all of the names of his allies… family without any hesitation. Not that Tommy wasn’t willing to use that free flow of information to his own benefit.

“So, I still don’t get it,” Tommy said. “You said you’re a ghost, which would mean you’re dead. But he’s not…”

“I was dead,” Ghostbur corrected. “I was stabbed by a villain who was mad at dad when I was 8. I ended up lingering as a ghost for a… long time. But then I got fixed and I got stuffed back into my body!”

“You got fixed?” Tommy asked. “From being dead?”

“Uh huh.”

“Well then if you’re fixed or whatever why are you…” he gestured to the ghost.

“I have a secondary astral projection power that developed after I was rebooted. He involuntarily astral projects in his sleep now. His waking brain is resting, so I take over. We’re kind of different and kind of the same.”

“Huh,” Tommy said. “Yeah, I’ll be honest buddy, that makes zero sense, but I might just be tired.”

“You can ask questions if you’d like,” Ghostbur said with an encouraging smile.

“Can you walk through walls?”

“Yep!” As though to demonstrate he sunk down until his legs sunk into the bed but was back to hovering a second later.

“Can you possess people?”

“Not that I’m aware of.”

“Can you use your screamy powers while a ghost?”

“If I try, they just come out of him. So, only if I’m in the same room as my body.”

“What’s the password to the door?”

Ghostbur shot him a small smile and reached forward to bop him on the nose. To Tommy’s surprise, he actually felt something, though it was not pressure. It was just cold and wet. He reached up to rub his nose and his fingers came away stained blue. Weird. “I like you,” Ghostbur said, “but I’m not giving up all of our secrets. Especially not when you might go back to Dream.”

Tommy pouted and Ghostbur laughed soft and gentle.

“Aw is the baby angry?” he mocked.

Tommy was immediately irritated. “I have suddenly decided I do not like you,” he proclaimed. “I am not a baby.”

“Itty bitty,” Ghostbur cooed, and god did Tommy wish throwing something at him would have an effect. “Just a baby. You’re not even a legal adult.”

Irritation shifted suddenly to a cold icy feeling gripping at his heart. “How the fuck do you know that?”

Ghostbur tilted his head at him, the teasing expression gone. “It’s alright,” he soothed.

“No,” Tommy said. “How the fuck do you know that?”

“I am usually not visible,” Ghostbur hedged. “In fact, it’s much easier to just be invisible especially the farther away I am from my body.”

“You watched me,” he whispered, a dawning horror pooling in his gut.

“I did,” Ghostbur admitted. “I followed you home the night after our first fight.”

“You…” Tommy said. That was worse than the cameras they would have had at the Guild supplied apartments, worse than the tagging system he’d barely escaped in The Pit, worse than the bimonthly mind checkups he shuddered his way though for work. At least those were things he knew about and could resist in some way. This was… not and it had been going on for months. “So, what has all of this been then?” he gritted out. There was wetness near his eyes, and he couldn’t come up with an excuse for why it wasn’t tears. “Was everything, all the fights and escapes, just a game to you three? You’ve just been toying with me? Letting me think I’ve been getting away because you already know everything about me and where I live?” A mouse being played with in the paws of a cat thinking it might live but being doomed from the start. He was always going to end up here, wasn’t he? Trapped at their mercy locked in this stupid room.

“No, no, no,” Ghostbur said, his hands up in a placating motion. “They don’t know all of that. Nothing about you or where you live.”

“What the fuck do you mean they don’t know?”

“Wilbur doesn’t know when he’s awake,” Ghostbur said. “I’ve been not letting that stuff through to the waking world. You’re okay, I promise. It’s nothing like that.”

He seemed earnest enough that it calmed Tommy just a tad. “I… but how? Why?”

“How is easy enough,” Ghostbur answered. “I just chose not to remember any of it when I’m him,” he pointed at Wilbur. “Why is…” he looked over at Tommy. “You were sad that day,” he explained. His eyes started to glow more and the dark blue liquid started to drip from them like fast flowing weird tears, staining the bedsheets in puddles. “You were only 15 then even if I didn’t know it, and Dream was so mean to you for losing which wasn’t fair because you were obviously so new. You walked home in the dark. It had snowed the night before, but you didn’t have anything to keep you warm. I followed you all the way home and was so relieved when there was someone there ready with a blanket and cuddles to help warm you back up.”

“You know about Tubbo too.” It wasn’t a question. Of course, he knew about Tubbo.

“I do,” he said, “but it’s okay. Awakebur didn’t need to know, so I didn’t tell him.”

“I… but I still don’t understand. You kept it from yourself?”

“The living,” Ghostbur said, a bit hesitantly, “don’t always see the bigger picture. Wilbur is me. He knows the same things as me for the most part, but he still forgets what matters sometimes. He gets wrapped up in life and gets angry over silly little things. I didn’t want to do anything that could hurt you or make you sad.”

“I… I still don’t get it,” Tommy said softly.

“That’s okay,” Ghostbur replied. “You’ll understand eventually.” He leaned forward so he was in Tommy’s face and Tommy went still, wondering what on Earth he was planning to do. He ended up touching his lips to Tommy’s forehead. Once again there was no pressure, just the cool wetness of the blue ink like stuff being rubbed off onto his skin. The ghost was smiling so hard he was squinting from it when he drew away. “Oh!” he said, his tone suddenly like an excited child. He leaned over and reached for the bag that had held the toothbrush and clothes earlier. He was able to pick it up apparently, though he stained the outside in blue. He didn’t seem to care about that though. “You should check my bag! Awakebur was silly, but I brought you a present!”

A present? Tommy blinked at the bag for a long few moments until it slipped through the ghost’s fingers. (Literally through his fingers. It seemed he could only hold onto things physically for a little bit.) He slowly reached to pick it up.

“It’s a cow plushie!” Ghostbur declared when he pulled it out and just stared at it. “You like cows, so I got one for you!”

“I…” Tommy did not know what to say. It was very, very nice: one of the big ones that usually cost, like, half his paycheck and it was unbelievably soft. He’d never had a stuffed animal before.

“And I got a bee one for Tubbo!” Ghostbur informed him.

“He’d…” Tommy said. “He’d like that.” Ghostbur was overtly pleased by him saying so, smiling and floating up and down a bit: bouncing. Tommy watched his excitement with a smile on his face. Wilbur fucking hated him, but whatever part of him was sitting in front of Tommy now clearly did not, especially if he’d really been keeping Tommy and Tubbo safe by hiding the things he knew even from himself. Thinking about Tubbo and the things Ghostbur knew, Tommy suddenly had an idea. “You know who Tubbo is,” Tommy breathed.

“Yes?”

“And you know where we live already.”

“Uh huh.”

“Can,” Tommy looked up at him desperately. “Can you go check on him for me? You don’t have to contact him or do anything, but can you just make sure he’s okay? He’s probably… well, you know how he’s clinging, right? He’s probably lost without me. I just want to know that he’s okay. Can you please check?”

“Of course,” Ghostbur said gently.

Tommy pulled the stuffed cow to his chest. “Thanks,” he said.

“You’re going to be okay,” Ghostbur said. “Alive people can be silly, but you’ll be okay, okay?”

He wasn’t sure if he could believe that. He wasn’t sure if Ghostbur could promise that when he was basically a dream, but he did feel a bit warmed by the promise. “Sure, Ghstorbur,” Tommy said to placate him. “I’ll be okay, but can you go check on Tubbo for me?”

Ghostbur watched him for a bit. “I’ll be back in a little while,” he promised, and then he disappeared into thin air.

Author Note:

(Flashing gif below.)

Wilbur about Tommy for the last, like, year:

Ghostbur about Tommy during the exact same time:

[omegaplus]

# 4,274

My radio station’s grid frees up every Summer whenever students with shows go away for vacation, graduate, or move on. Chances are, anyone planning on staying and wanting extra time or slots will most likely get them. This is why for the past two years Omega WUSB had our busiest and most frequent Summer broadcast seasons. Putting together all these shows and playing tons of music for everyone listening is great, but it comes with a price.

It takes a lot of time to make anywhere from fifteen to twenty shows - and even more. We always have fellow dee-jays who go on vacation and donate their time to us, and last year our program director DJ Joi gave us an additional weekly Monday afternoon slot. That’s on top of our bi-weekly Saturday night slot. Could you imagine how much time it takes to find and grab music across 95-100 different music outlets, audition, and then edit them all through Audacity before each weekly / bi-weekly deadline? Do this at least once or twice a week for several one to four-hour shows and you’ll see how intense and consuming it is. Throw in other projects such as graphic design, writing short stories, and wanting to do several other things all at once such as learning Italian, job-searching, and HTML and I would feel an intense crush and anxiety that lasts all Summer long. Which brings me to this…

Over the summer I decided to treat myself, so I spent $3,000.00 total visiting every record store on Long Island and New York City I could visit. That’s about 575 different albums on vinyl, cassette, and disc currently sitting on the shelf. Divide both the money spent and acquisitions in half and you’ll get 2018’s record-store victory tour added. That’s enough music for me to be found dead under. Most of those purchases were made up of bands and artists I’ve been meaning to check out forever, on top of what I already have over the years.

It’s been getting out of control and for (literally) years I felt I was missing out. I feel left out not getting into artists I should have years ago because ‘just in case’. That goes back to how much time I spend preparing for my radio show. A lot of time is invested checking out all these new finds and editing shows for airplay. I get so involved in making my show that I’m forsaking all these great artists and sounds.

There was one instance where a mutual answered back on an INXS post I made long ago. She didn’t put me on the stake or test my loyalty, but I felt it. Can you believe I’m still feeling guilty about it. Ridiculous? Yes. But I strive to become the be-all end-all music aficionado. Why not? Ambition is in my blood. Another mutual told me not to rush things. Let the finds come to you and enjoy that moment. Then there’s the Roman goth girl: a Depeche Mode fanatic who pushed me to catch up on them. I was so busy with my projects that I have yet to listen to most of those purchases. I promised myself that I would find the time to go through them all plus more. To prepare for that, I’d have to sacrifice a little.

If there was one project to do differently or stop completely, it’s be Ω+. All of my followers of this personal music blog know I’ve been inconsistent for the past six months because of the above-mentioned reasons. I felt the stress of working 40 hours at retail, continuing projects, and wanting to return to others - all on my shoulders. It was too much work (and still is) for too little gain. That’s where I started falling behind on posting.

Even a couple of my mutuals and followers messaged me here asking me if this personal music blog was still going. That told me something. Followers had gotten used to seeing my / our posts on a regular basis; like a co-worker that everyone loves and expects to show up everyday to say “hi!” to, a radio voice you could always rely on after a tough day’s work, or driving by an eatery knowing that’ll be there for years to come when you need them.

There’s other things to take care of and felt like it wasn’t going anywhere anymore. For a while I wasn’t feeling it and didn’t have it in me, so I considered retiring Ω+ once and for all. But I realized something: why stop what I love doing? Why stop putting myself out there? Why stop seeing who’s paying attention and finding connections with my readers? Maybe the only thing I needed was a recharge?

So instead of stopping it, I’ve decided to keep Ω+ going. From this point on, I’ll be giving the same amount of focus on seasonal mixtapes, Omega WUSB playlists, special posts, and so on as usual. I also plan on not putting too much work into the usual reviews as much, but rather they’ll be shorter bursts and “now listening to” posts. Every little bit counts. I’m / we’re still going to do things with Ω+ that no other music blog here has - that is - if they even exist anymore. There’s still some missing gaps when checking the archives but for posterity they will be filled in eventually until we’re back at 100.00%. They’ll also be re-blogged so that we give these posts a chance.

Digitally preserving my entire library of cassette dubs is almost at its end, and eventually I’ll finally have more time freed up to tackle my purchases and unlistened music that I haven’t gotten to. I will audit them for inventory purposes and digitize them while archiving all of my CDr / DVDr’s starting this coming January. Learning Italian, coding, and switching careers are on the horizon.

Our ninth year of Ω+ has come to an end. Thanks to all of my / our followers, supporters, and listeners of all things Omega. We really appreciate it.

Ω+

Omega WUSB

Our Lady Of Omega

VMFX

[unique-reviews]

Unleashing the Power of A2 Hosting Review: Hear Why Customers Are Raving

Introduction

Overview of A2 Hosting

When considering web hosting providers, A2 Hosting often comes up as a distinctive choice. Known for its speed and reliability, A2 Hosting caters to a diverse range of users—from bloggers to large enterprises. Their commitment to performance is backed by a suite of features designed to offer not just hosting, but a robust online experience. What sets A2 Hosting apart? Let me simplify it for you:

Turbo Servers: Up to 20x faster than standard hosting

Developer-Friendly: Supports various programming languages and frameworks

Green Hosting: Environmentally responsible with energy-efficient practices

Using A2 Hosting has truly allowed me to focus on what I love—creating content—without the worries of server downtimes.

History of A2 Hosting

Founded in 2001, A2 Hosting began with a clear mission: to provide a top-tier web hosting experience. What started as a small startup has evolved into a significant player in the hosting industry over the years. Here are some pivotal milestones in A2 Hosting's journey:

2001: A2 Hosting was established in Ann Arbor, Michigan, mainly targeting developers.

2003: The introduction of their "Turbo" server line showcased their focus on speed.

2013: The launch of their Managed WordPress hosting solidified their offerings.

A2 Hosting Features

High-Speed Servers

One of the standout features of A2 Hosting is its high-speed servers. Speed is crucial, especially if you want to provide users with a seamless experience. When I first migrated my blog to A2 Hosting, I noticed an immediate boost in page loading times. Their Turbo Servers promise up to 20x faster performance, which is a game changer! Here are a few highlights about their speed capabilities:

SSD Storage: A2 utilizes solid-state drives that drastically improve data retrieval times compared to traditional HDDs.

Turbo Boost: This optional feature allows for even faster speeds by optimizing server settings specifically for your site.

Global Data Centers: With multiple data centers across the globe, A2 Hosting ensures that your content is as close to your visitors as possible.

Reliable Customer Support

Another noteworthy aspect of A2 Hosting is their reliable customer support. We all encounter technical hiccups from time to time, and having a responsive support team can make all the difference. Personally, I found their customer service representatives to be knowledgeable and eager to help with any questions I had during my initial setup. Here’s what you can expect from their support services:

24/7 Availability: Whether it’s the weekend or the middle of the night, help is just a click away.

Multiple Support Channels: Reach out via live chat, phone, or email—whichever method suits you best.

Comprehensive Knowledge Base: A detailed library of articles and tutorials helps users find answers swiftly.

A2 Hosting Plans

Shared Hosting

When it comes to affordability and ease of use, A2 Hosting's Shared Hosting plans are a fantastic option, especially for beginners. I still remember my initial foray into web hosting; I started with a shared plan simply because it fit my budget and needs perfectly. With shared hosting, multiple websites share the same server resources, which is both cost-effective and simple to manage. Here are some key features of A2 Hosting's Shared Hosting:

Low Starting Price: Their plans are competitively priced, making it accessible to many.

Free Site Migration: A2 offers migration assistance from your existing host, saving you the hassle.

Unlimited Storage and Bandwidth: Ideal for growing websites that may need more resources as they scale.

VPS Hosting

As my website grew, I found myself needing more control and resources, leading me to explore A2 Hosting's VPS Hosting options. Virtual Private Servers offer dedicated resources within a shared environment, providing better performance and greater customization. Here's what I discovered about their VPS Hosting plans:

Flexible Resources: You can scale your resources according to your site's evolving needs.

Root Access: Ideal for developers like me who want complete control over their server's configurations.

Enhanced Security: A private environment adds an extra layer of security for sensitive data.

Benefits of Using A2 Hosting

Enhanced Security

One of the aspects of A2 Hosting that truly stood out for me is their enhanced security features. In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding your website is crucial, and A2 Hosting takes this concern seriously. From the moment I started my journey with them, I felt reassured by the various security measures they implemented. Here are some highlights of their security features:

Free SSL Certificates: A2 provides free SSL certificates, which are essential for encrypting data and boosting customer trust.

HackScan Protection: Their proactive monitoring helps detect vulnerabilities and block potential threats before they cause harm.

Reinforced DDoS Protection: This feature safeguards your website from malicious attacks that could disrupt services.

Knowing these measures were in place allowed me to focus on my content without constantly worrying about potential breaches.

User-Friendly Control Panel

Navigating the world of web hosting can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to it. That’s why A2 Hosting’s user-friendly control panel is yet another reason I appreciate their service. It simplifies website management, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise. What I love about their control panel:

Intuitive Design: Easy-to-navigate menus mean you can quickly find what you need.

One-Click Installations: Setting up applications like WordPress or Joomla is a breeze with just one click.

Resource Usage Stats: You can easily monitor your resource consumption, helping to manage your site effectively.

Customer Reviews

Positive Feedback

As I dove deeper into the world of A2 Hosting, I couldn't help but notice the buzz surrounding their services. Many users rave about the performance and overall experience they receive. The positive feedback is nearly unanimous, emphasizing how this hosting provider sets itself apart from the competition. Here’s what many customers appreciate most:

Speed and Uptime: A consistent theme in reviews is the impressive speed and reliability. Users often mention page load times significantly improving after switching to A2 Hosting.

Responsive Support: Customers frequently highlight the quick response time and helpfulness of the support team—something I can personally attest to. I reached out to them once, and I was amazed at how quickly I received a thorough solution.

Testimonials from Satisfied Customers

Real-life testimonials often speak volumes, and A2 Hosting is filled with success stories from satisfied customers. Many express how transitioning to A2 Hosting transformed their online presence. For instance:

John, a Small Business Owner: Sharing his journey, John mentioned that after moving to A2 Hosting, his e-commerce site experienced record sales due to faster page load times, which directly bolstered customer satisfaction.

Sarah, a Blogger: Sarah remarked, "The user-friendly control panel took the headache out of managing my blog. It's simplified everything for me!"

In my experience, witnessing such genuine testimonials gives me confidence in A2 Hosting. Their customers not only praise the services but feel genuinely looked after, and that’s something we all want when selecting our web hosting partner.

[fromdevcom]

WordPress remains to be the leading website builder used in Australia and all over the world. Since it is a free platform, most mass media administrators, bloggers, and online entrepreneurs use WordPress to build their websites.Initially, this platform was developed to create blogs. But recently, it has been advanced to be a Content Management System for websites. Nonetheless, many bloggers are still using WordPress to create and improve their sites. If you are looking forward to creating a new website, it is wise to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of using any CMS platform. This will help you make an informed decision on the perfect choice for your site. So, in this article, we will look into the pros and cons of using WordPress to build your website. Here we go:ProsIt is CheaperIt is quite economical to create and maintain a website using WordPress than having your website designed by software system designers. With WordPress, you won’t incur any set-up costs since it is a free platform. You can install it on your server freely whenever you want.Besides, this CMS platform allows you to take full control of your website. Once you own a website, you can be able to control all your data and customize it at your pace.Has a Variety of Themes and PluginsWordPress gives you a wide range of quality themes that you can use to advance the design of your site. These themes are available at a very friendly cost. You can even get a specialized theme with as little as $20. There are more than 55, 000 plugins in WordPress to help you improve functionalities in your site. Some come at zero cost and others are paid. Mobile - FriendlyMost people use their mobile phones to browse, research about products, and even shop online. With this mind, WordPress developers ensure that websites are accessible to phone users. Thus, themes and designs on WordPress sites are very responsive to mobile phones. SEO - ReadySpeaking of optimization, WordPress sites are the best. WordPress has a variety of plugins that are simple and easy to use. This helps you to know what phrases or words are top to ensure that more people find your content.User - FriendlyIt's very easy to operate WordPress sites with less technical skills. You just need the basic skills to edit pages and update your site with ease.Some many informational sites and mediums document best practices regularly. Therefore, you won’t have problems while developing your website as you have all the information you need. Most Suitable for eCommerce SitesWordPress is great for building business sites since it attracts more traffic. In modern days, many people are searching and buying things online. This has led to rapid growth in online marketing as well as the amplification of internet use. Hence, entrepreneurs and company owners have no choice but to build business websites for advertisements to attract more clients. ConsThe following are the downsides of WordPress that you should know before using it to build your website;Security IssuesWebsite owners are left with the responsibility of their site's development and security. WordPress platform is openly accessible to the public, and this means that WordPress sites are susceptible to tech gurus and hackers. If you want to alleviate this risk, the best WordPress developer in Sydney helps you to learn how to secure your site. You Must Update Your Site RegularlyWordPress is continuously trying to make improvements to its structure. Therefore, frequent updates occur in WordPress sites. These updates could sometimes interfere with the site’s performance. To mitigate this, we advise WordPress site owners to save a site back up before updating. Customization Can be ExpensiveDespite being a free platform, the efficiency of WordPress sites relies on customization themes and plugins. In most cases, these features come with a price, and failure to use them may hinder the functionality of your site.If you want to build an effective business website or whatsoever, consult with WordPress experts to ensure that you get the most out of it.

[webclawitsolutions]

Wix vs Webflow: Choosing the Right Website Builder for Your Business Success 2024

Building a business website requires the right tools, and choosing the best website builder can make all the difference. Two of the most popular website builders today are Wix and Webflow. Both platforms offer unique advantages depending on your business goals, design preferences, and technical skills. This article breaks down the key features, pros, and cons of each platform to help you make an informed decision for your business success.

What is Wix?

Wix is an easy-to-use, drag-and-drop website builder designed for individuals and businesses looking to create a professional-looking website quickly and without needing coding experience. Launched in 2006, Wix has grown into one of the most widely used website builders globally, offering a wide range of templates, customization options, and built-in tools for SEO, marketing, and eCommerce. Its simplicity and affordable pricing make it ideal for small businesses, freelancers, and startups looking to establish an online presence without a steep learning curve.

Key Features of Wix:

Drag-and-drop editor for easy site creation.

Over 800 templates across various industries.

Built-in eCommerce solutions and integrations.

Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) for automatically generating websites.

Affordable pricing with a free plan option (Wix branding included).

What is Webflow?

Webflow is a more advanced website design platform that combines visual web design tools with powerful coding capabilities. Launched in 2013, Webflow is geared towards designers, developers, and businesses that want more control over their website’s appearance and functionality. Unlike Wix, Webflow allows for pixel-perfect designs, complex animations, and interactions, while still offering a visual editor that eliminates the need for direct coding (though coding is an option for those who need it). It’s ideal for businesses looking for custom, scalable, and SEO-optimized websites.

Key Features of Webflow:

Visual editor with high design flexibility.

Custom code capabilities for full control over website structure.

Advanced SEO tools and faster load times.

Dynamic content management system (CMS) for blogs and portfolios.

Ideal for creating complex, custom designs without heavy coding.

1. Ease of Use

Wix 

- Designed for users with little to no coding experience.

- Drag-and-drop editor with pre-designed templates.

- Great for beginners and small businesses needing a quick, functional site.

- AI-powered Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) builds sites automatically based on user input.

Webflow 

- More advanced, suitable for those with web design experience.

- Offers a visual editor with a focus on design precision.

- Steeper learning curve but highly customizable.

- Ideal for businesses looking for greater control over design and functionality.

Winner for Ease of Use: Wix is the best option for beginners, while Webflow is better for those with some design and coding experience.

2. Design Flexibility

Wix 

- Over 800 templates available for a variety of industries.

- Limited customization beyond the provided templates.

- Ideal for quick, pre-made designs, but harder to modify extensively.

Webflow

- Offers: full design freedom with no restrictions.

- Allows users to create websites from scratch or modify templates in great detail.

- Perfect for businesses seeking a unique, custom-built website experience.

Winner for Design Flexibility: Webflow offers far more creative control and flexibility than Wix.

3. SEO Capabilities

Wix 

- Provides basic SEO tools for beginners.

- Users can edit meta tags, alt texts, and page titles.

- Built-in SEO Wiz tool offers step-by-step guidance.

- Ideal for businesses just starting with SEO.

Webflow 

- Advanced SEO options with full control over meta titles, alt tags, and custom schema markups.

- Clean code structure ensures faster load times, a key factor for SEO.

- Many businesses looking to maximize their organic reach often hire a Webflow SEO expert to fully optimize their site for search engines.

Winner for SEO: Webflow offers more advanced and customizable SEO features, giving it the edge for businesses focused on organic traffic.

4. Pricing

Wix 

- Offers a free plan (with Wix ads) and a variety of premium plans starting at $16/month.

- Great for small businesses and startups with limited budgets.

- Paid plans include hosting, security, and a free custom domain.

Webflow 

- No free plan (only a free trial for design purposes), and premium plans start at $14/month.

- Pricing can go higher depending on features, hosting, and site traffic.

- More expensive for businesses that need advanced design capabilities and eCommerce features.

Winner for Pricing: Wix is generally more affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious businesses.

5. Ecommerce Capabilities

Wix 

- Built-in eCommerce solutions for small to medium-sized stores.

- Easy to set up, with features for managing products, orders, and payments.

- Integrates with popular payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, etc.

Webflow 

- More powerful and customizable eCommerce features.

- Great for businesses needing a completely custom online store experience.

- Offers multi-currency, custom checkout pages, and advanced marketing tools.

Winner for eCommerce: Webflow is better for businesses looking to build highly customized, large-scale online stores, while Wix is ideal for smaller eCommerce setups.

6. Support and Community

Wix 

- Offers 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and phone.

- Extensive help center with tutorials and guides.

- Active community for troubleshooting and advice.

Webflow 

- Provides email support (with priority support for premium plans).

- Robust community forum and Webflow University for self-paced learning.

- Dedicated learning resources for designers and developers.

Winner for Support: Wix takes the edge with its round-the-clock customer support, making it easier for beginners to get help quickly.

7. Scalability for Business Growth

Wix 

- Great for small to medium businesses, but may not scale well for larger enterprises.

- Template-based designs and limited flexibility can become restrictive as your business grows.

Webflow 

- Highly scalable and ideal for businesses planning long-term growth.

- Customizable features and control over code allow you to add more advanced functionalities as your business expands.

Winner for Scalability: Webflow offers more scalability, making it a better option for businesses expecting significant growth.

8. Which Platform is Right for Your Business?

Choose Wix if:

  - You’re a beginner or small business owner looking for a quick, easy-to-use platform.

  - You prefer pre-designed templates with minimal customization.

  - You’re on a budget and need an affordable option with decent features.

Choose Webflow if:

  - You have some web design experience or want to hire a designer.

  - You need full design freedom and customization.

  - You plan to scale your business with advanced SEO and eCommerce needs.

Conclusion

Both Wix and Webflow are powerful website builders, but they serve different purposes depending on your business's needs. For ease of use and affordability, Wix is a great choice, especially for beginners. On the other hand, Webflow is perfect for those seeking complete design flexibility and scalability, particularly with advanced SEO capabilities that can be enhanced by a best Webflow SEO expert.

Take your time to evaluate your business’s goals, design needs, and long-term plans before deciding. With the right platform, your website can be a powerful tool for driving business success.

[onlinevapegate]

Vape Pods and Disposable Vapes in Dubai: Exploring the Latest Trends

Dubai is known for many things, but among those things, its vaping culture definitely stands out. With evolving preferences, new technologies, and a wide range of flavors, the city has chosen different products for its convenience and passion for vaping. However, what product do you choose if you are starting to use a vape? Even when you are an experienced vaper, staying atop the latest trends is crucial. So, what’s hot in the world of vapes? The answer is vape pods and disposable vapes. Why they are trending? Well, here’s a guide to help you get started.

Vape Pods: Convenience Meets Customization

So, vape pods are small, portable vaping systems that are made for ease of use and offer a more customized experience over conventional vapes. This option is widely popular among Dubai folks because of its compact size and versatility. Besides, vape pods also usually come with refillable cartridges, so you get the option to switch between different e-liquids, flavors, and nicotine strengths.

You can easily carry them around and switch to different flavors depending on your mood. There are many brands to match user preferences, and you get complete control over the nicotine levels. Whether you prefer a high-nicotine hit or a milder experience, with pods, you can adjust the intensity accordingly. Especially for users trying to reduce their nicotine intake, this option can be a game-changer. There are also refillable pods that are more eco-friendly than conventional options. So, if you are an eco-conscious consumer, do try these!

Disposable Vapes: Hassle-Free and Ready-to-Go

On the flip side, when we talk about disposable vapes, they have become popular for their sheer convenience. When you use these vapes, there’s no need to worry about refilling the e-liquids or replacing the coils. All you need to do is pick one up, use it until it’s done, and dispose of it. In addition, disposable vapes are also great for beginners or those who want a hassle-free vaping experience.

You can get them in sleek, trendy, colorful designs, which make them an incredibly fun accessory to carry around. There’s a variety of flavors, such as fruity, dessert-inspired, or even beverage-themed ones, and the single-use, high-impact factor is such an advantage. Many users appreciate the strong nicotine hit offered by disposable vapes. Because they come pre-filled, the nicotine levels are typically consistent, giving you a reliable vaping experience every time. This makes them a go-to option for those who don’t want the commitment of maintaining a vape pod but still enjoy a satisfying vape session.

Nicotine-Free Options

Another trend making waves in Dubai’s vaping scene is the rise of nicotine-free options. As health-conscious consumers look for alternatives, nicotine-free vape pods, and disposables offer the sensation of vaping without the addictive substance. These are perfect for casual users or those who have switched to vaping purely for flavor exploration rather than nicotine intake.

Conclusion

Whether you are into customizable vape pods, or you prefer the simplicity of a disposable vape in Dubai, there are so many options to choose from. Looking for the best vape products for your needs and at an affordable price range? Find them at Vape Gate UAE today!

Blog Source. https://www.onlinevapegate.com/blogs/news/latest-trends-in-dubai-vape-pods-and-disposable-vapes-in-dubai

[kiwicarpartskcp]

Enhance Your Vehicle’s Performance: Exploring Airbag Suspension Kit NZ and Downpipe Exhaust

When it comes to upgrading your vehicle's performance and comfort, two essential components that can make a significant difference are the Airbag Suspension Kit NZ and the Downpipe Exhaust. Whether you're seeking a smoother ride or looking to enhance your car's power output, these modifications offer a range of benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore how each of these upgrades works and why they’re must-haves for any car enthusiast in New Zealand.

What is an Airbag Suspension Kit NZ?

An Airbag Suspension Kit is a type of suspension system that uses airbags instead of traditional coil or leaf springs to adjust the height of the vehicle and improve ride quality. In New Zealand, airbag suspension kits are becoming increasingly popular among car owners who want a customized driving experience with enhanced comfort and control.

Airbag suspension systems are made of durable rubber or polyurethane, and they are inflated or deflated using air compressors. This system gives you the flexibility to raise or lower your car's ride height based on the road conditions, the load you're carrying, or simply your driving preference.

Benefits of an Airbag Suspension Kit NZ

Improved Ride Comfort: One of the most significant benefits of installing an Airbag Suspension Kit NZ is the improved ride comfort. Airbags absorb road imperfections, leading to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience, especially on rough terrains or uneven roads.

Adjustability: Unlike traditional suspensions, airbag systems are adjustable. This feature allows you to modify the vehicle's height at any given moment. Whether you need a lower ride for improved aerodynamics on highways or a higher clearance for rough off-road driving, airbag suspension gives you the flexibility to adapt.

Enhanced Load Handling: If you often use your vehicle to transport heavy loads, an airbag suspension system can provide additional support. You can increase the pressure in the airbags to accommodate extra weight, preventing sagging and maintaining better control over the vehicle.

Increased Lifespan of Other Components: With an airbag suspension system, the vehicle’s weight is distributed more evenly. This reduces the strain on other suspension components, such as shocks and struts, extending their lifespan.

Customization for Car Enthusiasts: Car enthusiasts love the ability to customize their vehicle’s stance. With an airbag suspension, you can achieve that perfect, low-to-the-ground look when parked or at a show, while still maintaining functionality when driving.

What is a Downpipe Exhaust?

A Downpipe Exhaust is an aftermarket upgrade to the exhaust system, typically installed in turbocharged vehicles. It connects the turbocharger to the rest of the exhaust system and is designed to improve the flow of exhaust gases from the engine. By upgrading to a high-performance downpipe, you can unlock more power and performance from your vehicle.

Benefits of a Downpipe Exhaust

Increased Horsepower: One of the primary reasons people install a Downpipe Exhaust is to increase horsepower. The larger diameter of the downpipe allows exhaust gases to flow more freely, reducing backpressure on the turbocharger. This results in faster spool times for the turbo and more power output from the engine.

Improved Throttle Response: By reducing the restrictions in the exhaust system, a downpipe improves throttle response. This means that when you press on the accelerator, the engine responds more quickly, providing a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Better Turbo Efficiency: A Downpipe Exhaust can improve the overall efficiency of the turbocharger. The free-flowing design reduces heat buildup and allows the turbo to work more effectively, which can lead to better fuel efficiency and prolonged turbo life.

Aggressive Exhaust Note: For those who love the sound of a powerful engine, a downpipe exhaust upgrade can produce a more aggressive and sportier exhaust note. The less restrictive exhaust flow allows for a louder, deeper growl that many car enthusiasts crave.

Potential for Future Modifications: A Downpipe Exhaust sets the foundation for other performance upgrades. If you plan to install larger turbos or other performance-enhancing components, a downpipe is a crucial first step in ensuring that your exhaust system can handle the additional flow of gases.

Why Choose KIWI CAR PARTS for Your Upgrades?

When considering upgrades like the Airbag Suspension Kit NZ or the Downpipe Exhaust, it’s essential to work with a trusted supplier who can provide high-quality products and expert advice. At KIWI CAR PARTS, we are dedicated to offering top-of-the-line car parts that help you achieve your performance and customization goals.

Here’s why you should choose us for your vehicle upgrades:

Wide Selection of High-Quality Parts: We carry a comprehensive range of suspension kits, downpipe exhausts, and other car parts, ensuring you have access to the best products available.

Expert Guidance: Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just starting, our team at KIWI CAR PARTS is here to provide expert advice on the best products for your vehicle.

Affordable Prices: We believe that upgrading your vehicle shouldn’t break the bank. Our products are competitively priced, making it easier for you to enhance your car’s performance without overspending.

Fast and Reliable Shipping: We understand the excitement of receiving your new parts, which is why we offer fast and reliable shipping throughout New Zealand.

Conclusion

Upgrading your vehicle with an Airbag Suspension Kit NZ and Downpipe Exhaust can significantly enhance both its performance and driving experience. Whether you're looking for improved ride comfort, better handling, increased horsepower, or a more aggressive exhaust sound, these modifications are worth considering. At KIWI CAR PARTS, we are here to help you find the right parts to take your vehicle to the next level. Visit our store today to explore our wide range of products and start your journey toward a better-performing car.

[design-studio-ui-ux]

Choosing the Right Website Platform: WordPress, Webflow, or Custom?

Custom-designed, professional-grade websites have elevated countless small businesses. However, not every business or individual has the resources to custom-create and design such websites. As a result, platforms like Webflow and WordPress, where you can custom-create websites without knowing how to code, have skyrocketed in popularity in the small business sector. Both these platforms offer simple tools to build advanced, professional-grade websites.

But, which one is better – WordPress or Webflow? Or is going custom, still the best route? Custom is still gold. But, only businesses with resources, or with specific design goals that free website builders cannot meet tend to opt for it these days. We’ll discuss these design goals later on in this article. So, this leaves us with WordPress and Webflow for now.

After putting these two popular website-building platforms head-to-head, our researchers concluded that as an overall package, WordPress is better. It is cheaper in the long run, offers a wider selection of website templates, and has world-class blog functionality.

This is not to say that Webflow does not have a growing and loyal user base. Both web builders are highly-rated and they give users a great amount of control over the website-creating process. Ultimately, the platform you choose will depend on your specific business needs.

So, in this article, we’ll dissect everything that these platforms have to offer to smaller businesses. From design features to eCommerce functionalities – let us scrutinize both platforms from every angle possible. There are also some scenarios where both platforms fail to hit the mark and going custom is the best possible option.

Webflow vs. WordPress: In a Nutshell

WordPress has been around for over 10 years longer than Webflow. Over 810 million websites (43.2% of all live websites) use WordPress in 2024. These factors tip the scales in WordPress’ favor in this debate. Webflow is seen as a new, edgy alternative to WordPress, made specifically for people who do not even know how to manage a traditional CMS like WordPress.

So, if you want to build your website on the simplest, 100% no-code design interface, go for Webflow. But, if you are interested in sophisticated templates and themes (thousands of them) join the WordPress wagon like the millions before you. To make your decision easier, we have put together this chart detailing the key features of each web builder:

Feature

Webflow

WordPress

Free Plan

Yes

Yes

Starting Paid Plan Price

$14 per month

$4 per month

Editor

Visual (drag-and-drop) only

Visual + code editor

Templates/Themes

5,000+

10,000+

Plug-ins, Integrations, Add-ons

Hundreds

10,000+

eCommerce Tools

Built into specific eCommerce plans

eCommerce plug-ins are built into the Commerce plan only

Ease of Use

Extremely easy-to-use

Steeper learning curve for non-experienced users

Customer Support

Ticket-based.

You can also turn to Webflow user forums for help online

24/7 support via live chat and email (high-tier plans)

Tens of thousands of forums online

One quality that stands out among all is WordPress’s extensive blogging, publishing, and SEO-friendly plugins. It is the main reason why so many professional digital publications still use WordPress. Webflow’s easy-to-use design customization features are better suited for individuals starting their first websites without coding or CMS experience. Here are some other key qualities of these tools, compared side by side:

Both platforms have a learning curve, but Webflow is much more suitable for users without coding experience.

Webflow's e-commerce service starts at $29 per month, making it cheaper than WordPress's $45 per month. However, Webflow requires a Site and Workspace plan, which can increase costs for larger teams, unlike WordPress.

Both WordPress and Webflow offer free plans, but WordPress provides better overall value.

WordPress has 30,000+ themes available, while Webflow offers around 1,000. WordPress also offers stronger SEO and marketing tools, including keyword support and live social media integrations. Webflow does not offer these.

Let us compare some more important features and qualities.

Templates and Website Editor

Ideally, you want your website builder’s main editing tool to be intuitive, easy to use, and packed with a variety of design templates. Both Webflow and WordPress offer these qualities in abundance. But, Webflow’s drag-and-drop visual editor is much easier to use, compared to WordPress’ block-based editor which can only customize to a degree.

After that, you need coding knowledge to extensively customize your web designs. On the other hand, Webflow only offers 5000 customizable templates (1500 of them are 100% free) compared to WordPress’ 12,000+ themes. In short, Webflow's templates are generally easier to modify but if you want variety, no CMS comes close to WordPress.

Setup and Ease of Use

Webflow’s onboarding experience is way more beginner-friendly. You can basically start customizing existing templates minutes after learning how to use the tool. WordPress also provides an easy setup. But, building complex sites usually requires installing multiple plug-ins, which can complicate the learning curve.

eCommerce

Webflow offers two eCommerce plans for small and medium-sized businesses - the ‘Standard Plan’ at $29/month and the ‘Plus Plan’ at $74/month. Both plans include essential eCommerce-centric features like custom checkout and email customization. But, in the Standard plan, the number of products you can list on your site is severely limited.

WordPress only has one dedicated eCommerce plan priced at $45/month. There are no limitations or extra costs once you sign up for this plan. But, you may have to use some premium WordPress plugins to customize your site. Overall, WordPress is more budget-friendly for new eCommerce businesses looking to grow their online stores.

Pricing

Here’s a breakdown of all the plans Webflow and WordPress users can choose from:

Plan Type

Webflow

WordPress

Free Plan

Basic website with two pages, Webflow branding

Basic website with WordPress branding

Beginner Plan

$14/month (annual)

Personal plan: $4/month (annual)

Premium Plan

$8/month (annual)

Business plan: $25/month (annual)

Business Plan

CMS Plan: $23/month (annual)

Business plan: $39/month (annual)

eCommerce Plan

Standard Plan: $29/month (annual)

Plus+ Plan: $74/month (annual)

Advanced plan: $212/month (annual)

Commerce plan: $45/month (annual)

As you can see, WordPress provides far better value due to its lower average plan prices. WordPress web-building packages start at $45/month, and its Commerce plan is significantly cheaper than Webflow's mid-tier eCommerce package which costs $74/month.

Choosing the Right Website Platform

Opt for Webflow if you are looking to create a light business website that is not heavily content or eCommerce-driven. If you are building a powerful, content-heavy, and eCommerce-friendly website, WordPress is still the best choice in the market. But, what if your website has unique functional requirements and is expected to draw in large volumes of visitors?

Well, that is when you go custom. With custom development/design, you get to optimize your site for scalability. You get to customize aspects of your website you could not touch with web builders. You also get to pack your site with advanced security tools, complex integrations, and APIs – without having to worry about extending your budget.

More importantly, going custom means you get to work with a leading provider of web designing & development services. There’s something in the works of these professionals that no web builder in the world can emulate. So, if you need a site that visually reflects your brand identity, offers long-term scalability, and delivers unique user experiences, go custom.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article simplified your decision-making process. So, what are you waiting for? Pick the right website building outlet and start building!

[vaporrage01]

Exploring the Latest Trends in Electronic Cigarette Kits in Las Vegas

If you’ve been keeping up with the vaping scene, you know that the world of electronic cigarette kits in Las Vegas is a hotbed of innovation and creativity, sparking excitement among seasoned vapers and those just starting to explore alternatives to traditional smoking. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse population of Las Vegas have turned it into a thrilling hub for the latest trends in vaping.

In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the most recent trends shaping the ECigs collection in Las Vegas, highlighting what’s new, what’s hot, and what you should keep an eye on when visiting your local vape store online in Las Vegas or vape shop in Las Vegas.

Why Electronic Cigarette Kits Are So Popular in Las Vegas

Vaping has gained immense popularity over the last few years, and it’s not hard to see why. As a cleaner alternative to traditional smoking, electronic cigarettes offer flexibility, variety, and a modern twist on nicotine consumption. But what is it about electronic cigarette kits in Las Vegas that makes them stand out?

Convenience and Customization

One of the most appealing aspects of vaping is the power it gives you to customize your experience. Unlike traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarette kits offer a wealth of options, from flavors to nicotine levels, and even vapor production. This versatility has made vaping a popular choice for both former smokers and those who enjoy the experience. In Las Vegas, where life moves fast and convenience is key, having a portable, rechargeable e-cigarette kit is a game-changer, putting you in control of your vaping experience wherever you go.

In Las Vegas, where life moves fast, and convenience is key, having a portable, rechargeable e-cigarette kit is a game-changer. Whether at home, out on the Strip, or exploring the nearby deserts, the ease of carrying a compact vaping device makes all the difference.

A Healthier Alternative to Smoking

While vaping isn’t risk-free, it is widely considered a healthier alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. For those looking to quit or reduce their smoking habit, electronic cigarette kits provide a viable solution. The ability to control nicotine intake helps many vapers wean themselves off nicotine gradually, without the harsh effects of tobacco smoke. This reassurance, coupled with the absence of lingering smoke smell, makes vaping a win-win for everyone around you.

As a result, electronic cigarette kits in Las Vegas have become a popular choice for people looking to improve their lifestyle while still enjoying the ritual of smoking. Plus, with no lingering smoke smell, it’s a win-win for everyone around you!

Key Trends in Electronic Cigarette Kits in Las Vegas

The world of vaping is constantly evolving, and electronic cigarette kits in Las Vegas are at the forefront of this revolution. Let’s look at some key trends making waves in the vaping community.

Compact and User-Friendly Devices: One of the most noticeable trends in vaping is the move toward more compact and user-friendly devices. Pod-based systems have taken the market by storm, offering a sleek, portable, and easy-to-use alternative to bulkier mods.

The Rise of Pod Systems: Pod systems like the JUUL, SMOK Nord, and Suorin Drop have become popular, especially among beginners. These devices are small, discrete, and designed for ease of use, making them perfect for on-the-go vaping. With refillable or pre-filled pods, users can quickly change flavors or nicotine levels, depending on their preferences.

Pod systems are an excellent option for those browsing a vape store online in Las Vegas due to their simplicity and portability. Plus, they require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to fuss with coils, wattage, or advanced settings.

Nicotine Salts for Smoother Hits: Nicotine salts, a trend that has revolutionized the vaping experience, are worth understanding. Unlike traditional freebase nicotine, which can sometimes cause a harsh throat hit, nicotine salts provide a smoother hit even at higher nicotine levels. This makes them perfect for those who need a stronger nicotine intake without the rough experience.

Why Nicotine Salts Matter: Nicotine salts work particularly well in low-wattage pod systems, which are ideal for discreet vaping. The smoothness of the hit, combined with the higher nicotine concentration, satisfies cravings more efficiently than standard e-liquids. No wonder nicotine salts have become a staple in the ECigs collection in Las Vegas.

Advanced Technology in Vaping Devices: For those who love tech, vaping has become a playground of innovation. High-tech mods with advanced features like temperature control, wattage adjustment, and Bluetooth connectivity are commonplace. These features allow for a highly customizable and precise vaping experience, catering to the needs of tech-savvy vapers.

Smart Vaping Devices: Some of the latest electronic cigarette kits come equipped with features that allow users to monitor their vaping habits, track puff counts, and even adjust settings via smartphone apps. These advancements cater to tech-savvy vapers who want full control over their experience, even when they're on the go.

If you’re a fan of gadgets, browsing a vape shop online in Las Vegas will give you access to the newest mods on the market. Devices like the GeekVape Aegis, Voopoo Drag, and Vaporesso Luxe offer high customization and durability, perfect for users who want power and precision.

The Role of Flavor Variety in Vaping

If there’s one thing that sets vaping apart from traditional smoking, it’s the endless variety of flavors available. The ECigs collection in Las Vegas boasts an impressive selection of e-liquids, catering to every palate, from sweet and fruity to savory and complex.

The Importance of Flavor in the Vaping Experience: Flavors are a huge part of what makes vaping enjoyable. For many, finding the right flavor is a fun way to personalize the experience. Unlike traditional cigarettes, where you’re limited to tobacco and menthol flavors, electronic cigarette kits allow you to explore everything from exotic fruits to dessert-inspired options.

Popular Flavors in Las Vegas: In Las Vegas, fruity and dessert flavors are popular choices among vapers. Mango, watermelon, and strawberry are staples, while flavors like vanilla custard, blueberry cheesecake, and cinnamon roll offer a more indulgent experience. Whether you prefer classic tobacco or want to experiment with unique blends, the variety available at vape stores online in Las Vegas ensures there’s something for everyone.

Customizable E-Liquid Options: Another emerging trend is the ability to customize your e-liquid blends. Some vape shops online in Las Vegas offer mix-and-match options, allowing users to combine different flavors and create a truly unique experience. The possibilities are endless, whether you want to mix tropical fruits or combine mint with chocolate.

This customization takes vaping to the next level, allowing users to tailor their e-liquids to their tastes. If you’re a creative vaper, this is a trend to explore!

The Benefits of Shopping at a Vape Store Online in Las Vegas

When it comes to buying vaping gear, convenience is key. While visiting a local vape shop has its perks, shopping at a vape store online in Las Vegas offers several unique benefits.

A Wider Selection of Products: One of the biggest advantages of shopping online is the wide variety of products available. Online vape stores typically carry a larger selection of electronic cigarette kits, mods, e-liquids, and accessories compared to brick-and-mortar stores. This means you’ll have access to more brands, styles, and flavors all in one place.

Whether you’re looking for the latest pod system, a high-tech mod, or a rare e-liquid flavor, you’re more likely to find it when browsing a vape shop online in Las Vegas.

Better Prices and Exclusive Deals: Online vape shops often offer better prices than physical stores, thanks to lower overhead costs. You can also take advantage of exclusive deals, discounts, and bundle offers only available online. Many stores even offer free shipping or loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts.

For vapers who are budget-conscious or love a good deal, shopping at a vape store online in Las Vegas is a no-brainer.

Convenience and Discretion: There’s no denying the convenience of shopping online. You can browse and order products from home without driving to a store or waiting in line. Plus, for those who prefer discretion, online shopping lets you make purchases privately and deliver them to your door.

Whether you’re new to vaping or a long-time enthusiast, the convenience of shopping at a vape shop online in Las Vegas makes it easier than ever to stay stocked up on your favorite products.

What to Look for in an Electronic Cigarette Kit

With so many options available, choosing the right electronic cigarette kit can feel overwhelming. Here’s what to consider when making your selection:

Device Type: Are you looking for something simple and portable, like a pod system, or do you want a more advanced mod with customization options? The type of device you choose depends on your vaping style and experience level.

Battery Life: Battery life is crucial, especially if you’re a heavy vaper or spend much time on the go. Look for devices with long-lasting batteries or the ability to charge quickly.

Ease of Use: For beginners, ease of use is key. Pod systems and basic mods are great for those who want a hassle-free experience, while advanced vapers may prefer mods with more features and settings.

Compatibility with E-Liquids: Not all devices are compatible with every type of e-liquid. For example, pod systems are better suited for nicotine salts, while mods are ideal for standard e-liquids. Be sure to choose a device that matches your preferred vaping style and e-liquid type.

Conclusion

The world of electronic cigarette kits in Las Vegas is full of innovation, style, and flavor. From compact pod systems to advanced mods, there’s something for every vaper, no matter your experience level. As you explore the ECigs collection in Las Vegas, you’ll discover that vaping is more than just an alternative to smoking—it’s a lifestyle full of customization and choice.

Ready to upgrade your vaping experience? Visit Vapor Rage to browse a wide selection of electronic cigarette kits, e-liquids, and accessories. Whether you’re shopping at a vape store online in Las Vegas or looking to try the latest trends, Vapor Rage has everything you need to stay ahead of the game.

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[carbon--14]

i have been stalking looking at your blog and not to be weird but i love you (in a mutuals way not a stalker way) also please tell me more abt your rocket scientist life i’m very intrigued if you’re interested in sharing.

hi nonnie why don't you come off anon and say hello properly ;))) jk. are we mutuals? or do i owe u a follow O___O

seriously though it's not even 1 pm and today has legitimately been one of the worst days of my life (family stuff, don't ask) so this was super needed and appreciated. thx for the little giggle lolz

anyway yeah aerospace/astronautical engineering is kind of a weird place to be :P it's kinda niche and the workload is insane, so people burn out quick and the ones who stick around actually enjoy it a little too much tbch. the vibes are a little weird because half of my classmates are like me and there because it's a long time special interest they're willing to commit several years to and the others are obsessed with military tech and really want to be a part of that development. and they're pleasant people to be around, like they're polite and stuff, but i have actually had a conversation with a classmate who told me (and i'm quoting here) "well, i'm not the one pulling the trigger, so i'm not responsible for anything." and his ideal career paths were working on stealth bombers or hypersonics :///// yikes. there's a reason we're not taught ethics especially since military contractors are the primary ones snapping us up for jobs right out of school. ironically though the actual rotc kids are the nicest of that bunch and tend to be super collaborative and friendly? but i'm not joking in one of my first year classes we took a poll of the group's favorite movies and i shit you not over 50% of the class said one of the two top gun movies and another 15% said interstellar X__X (mine is scott pilgrim btw cuz i have taste)

luckily the yippee creatures of the class are very aware of how fucked up the industry is and willing to talk about it so there's still hope. my personal strat is to make myself a very competitive candidate for a very niche subset of the industry without very many "defense" applications lol. :D especially since a lot of those "defense" jobs are in the middle of nowhere in like, texas and alabama and florida. so not exactly the greatest places for me to be. i'm super interested in ion thruster design and development and there's a couple of startups on the west coast that are working on that so i'm crossing my fingers. tbch i am so fed up with the actual industry that i'm genuinely considering going all-in on my online "content creator™" presence just to have some shot at avoiding it. i have been having an actual existential crisis for about 3 weeks wondering if i actually made the right choices in life

but yeah the actual workload will crush your will to live unless you actually enjoy it. my classes this semester consist of incompressible fluid dynamics, dynamics control systems, structural mechanics, numerical methods, and astronomical computer simulation development >_< i'm gonna dieeeee!! and probably need an insane glasses prescription by the end of the year with the amount of coding work i have to do. plus i'm trying to score a research position and finishing up a senior-level independent study lol AND this semester i'll be driving back and forth between school and home (which is three hours each way eugh) to go to concerts and shit with my dad, but hey free tix are free tix. so in case you were wondering why i barely draw anymore, this is my life now X__X alsoalso my faculty advisor for the independent study is nonbinary and giving me job advice! they're super cool i love them foreverrrr

as for my actual hands on experience i'll admit it's limited :PP mostly because it's super hard to score industry experience before the summer before junior year and i was in recovery the whole summer so i literally couldn't hold myself upright for more than a few minutes. but i've done a bunch of projects for classes + uni-funded ones too!! my biggest claim to fame (lol) is working on a three-stage rocket designed to fly to the karman line (which is the Super Official Divide Between The Atmosphere And Space™ lol). everything except our motor was built in-house and i worked on structural design and analysis, so my job consisted of

a) working on and approving cad models of each component before we sent them to the fabrication team,

b) stress-testing all parts the fab team sent us to ensure they were flight ready (there is a picture of me somewhere sitting on a chair precariously balanced on top of three sandbags on top of a giant tube filled with more sand and our nosecone, because sand under enough pressure puts a similar kind of stress on a nosecone as it experiences in flight),

c) fixing any uneven surfaces or manufacturing errors on our parts, and

d) doing so. much. documentation. i have to be totally honest, like 75% of aero/astro e is writing the most boring papers you will ever read in your life :[

and i also built a 3d cad model of the opportunity mars rover from scratch with only official promo pics and rover "selfies" and that thing crashed the lab computers twice and took a week's worth of 8 hour days in the lab + 3 all-nighters. fml but she was so worth it thooooo

sorrysorrysorry nonnie that was probably 10x more info than you were expecting but tl;dr i'm the world's biggest weirdo who actually loves physics and rocketry so i enjoy everything i'm doing in class but the actual job search is hell on earth and i dread the day i graduate :/ for now it's still mostly fun