#what are the signs of a faulty alternator

[expresscareautomn]

Wondering what are the signs of a faulty alternator? If your vehicle is having starting problems, it could be the car starters or alternator.

[carlaxautoservicecenter]

What are the signs of a faulty alternator? Many of the signs of trouble are the same for failing alternators, weak car batteries, or car starters Fail.

[heavysighing-dreamyeyes]

Devout

Guardian Angel alternative POV, or Jason Todd is the Arkham Knight, and he can't stop himself from watching you, from clawing his way into the cracks of your life in a twisted, mangled mirror of what he used to be ~3.5k words

CW: Jason commits a few murders, some gore, stalking, some religious imagery for fun

Jason Todd shouldn't be watching you. He knows it's wrong, knows he shouldn't be perched on the shadowy rooftop across from your apartment building, staring intently into your windows.

He knows. He knows. But he's doing it anyway– been doing it for weeks.

You haven't noticed once, so wrapped up in your own life, your peace of mind that no one would break the sanctity of your own home that you don't even consider closing your blinds.

He thinks you should know better. Gotham is tainted– he is tainted– yet you never spare a glance over your shoulder when he follows you down the street, never linger on that sixth sense that screams that you're being watched.

You pick up on his presence on the rare occasion, he thinks. The days you walk home quicker or the nights you actually slam your blinds shut makes him wonder if you do know you're being watched. But then you go back to normal, brush off every sign and every lingering feeling that something isn't right.

It almost makes him angry, sometimes, that you'd be so careless with your safety. But everything makes him angry now. It's a constant, tight grasp in his chest, the righteous fury he has against the world, against the city and its filth, against Batman.

The anger makes him reckless, or maybe he's just cocky. Maybe he wants you to know he's there. Jason doesn't let himself wonder why he does it. He might just be a masochist. He might just miss you. But he opens the faulty window to your living room that he knows squeaks and never quite locks right.

The first time he breaks into– visits your apartment while you're asleep, he doesn't touch a thing. He just takes in everything that's you, cleanses his fractured soul in the space he used to know like the back of his hand. The trinkets that sit on your counters. The paintings on the wall. The color of the blankets thrown over your couch.

He doesn't touch anything the second time, either. Or the third. The fourth time, though, he picks over the photos you keep on your shelves, the books you leave lying around. He moves them, just slightly. Just to see if you'll notice.

You don't. Not really. Not until the eighth time. He doesn't know why he does this either. He just does. He picks up your keys from where you usually keep them and moves them. It's something you can't deny. Something tangible and real and clear, an unyielding truth. He was here. He exists, and he can affect your life, change it with his hands.

(It's the first time he feels like he's truly alive since the asylum, the first time there's more than just revenge and watching you from afar, even if he feels like he's corrupting something that's only meant to be seen and not touched by impure, broken hands)

If your keys being displaced affects you, well, you don't show it for more than a few moments. And that bothers him. You might not know he's here– alive– and maybe he's not ready for you to, but he's still a part of your life, isn't he?

So he gets bolder. He doesn't want to scare you, not really. But he can't help but dig his nails into the parts of your life he can change. It starts simple, innocent. You were annoyed when you left your kitchen, out of sugar, just another thing on top of everything else you have to deal with.

And he wanted to help. Like he used to. It was easy to get a bag of sugar, even easier to sneak into your kitchen. He leaves just enough for a few days, just enough to get you through the week, enough that you'll think you misremembered how much was left.

And he should have left it at that. But he's never been good at doing things halfway, especially when it comes to you. So he fixes your apartment up while you're at work. Makes sure your window doesn't squeak, your shower doesn't rattle, your oven actually heats up. All things he's heard you try to get your landlord to fix.

He makes a note to give your landlord a visit as he's looping the footage in your cameras over, effectively erasing any evidence of who he is.

Honestly, he's proud of you for finally doing something about him, it's just a shame he has the skills to outmatch your attempts to figure out his identity. Not that any pictures of him would do any good. He's still nameless in Gotham as the Arkham Knight, and if he's not wearing a mask while he's easily picking the new lock on your apartment window, his hood and ballcap do the job of hiding his face just as well.

He thinks he could let it go on like this forever, just doing things for you in the shadows, never revealing himself. At least until he's routinely following you home from work one night, and he sees you get tugged into a dark, lonely alley. He recognizes the man that hauls you off the faux safety of the streets, the one that's lifting a shaky hand and a gun to wave it, demanding your possessions.

Murphy is a nobody in Gotham, just another gambling addicted alcoholic that takes work from whatever rouge is paying the most that week. Jason more or less only recognizes him because he lives on the third floor of your apartment building, but it's clear you don't know who the man snatching your things is.

The Arkham Knight resigns himself to stealing your wallet and phone back after you've gotten home, to keep himself out of your sights for as long as he can. That was the plan.

But there's a flicker in Murphy's eyes, a consideration– a passing thought that Jason can't ignore, one he's seen a million times. Maybe it's the idea that he could get more from you, or maybe he's realizing you've seen his face and wants to get rid of any witnesses, whatever it is, Jason isn't going to let it happen.

The Arkham Knight doesn't hesitate to drop himself between you and the gun. He breaks Murphy's arm without even thinking about it, effectively disarming him as he kicks the gun away from him. The sound of his bones breaking is loud, but Jason doesn't register it as something to be sickened by until he turns and sees the nausea and horror written plainly on your face.

Honestly, maybe he should be more disgusted with himself. He's just sent a man into shock, revealed himself to you in a way that's not at all comforting. But he doesn't care. No one was going to save you. No one but him. He protected you, and it's not like Bruce Batman– it's not like broken bones are uncommon in Gotham.

You take a step back. He steps towards you, drawn to you. He can't help it. He shouldn't. But his head is spinning, and he hasn't been this close to you since before the asylum. You look tired, older, but no less beautiful than he remembers.

"Who are you? What do you want," You snap at him.

Jason wants to praise you for your bravery, as fake as it is. It's a good tactic, to try and get him talking. He doesn't understand why you look so uneasy of him, though. He got you out of a bad situation, even if he's wearing military-grade armor and a mask that glows in the darkness of the alley, shouldn't you feel grateful? Safe? Happy?

He tilts his head, trying to read you. Would you feel better if he offered to walk you home? "I saved you," he tries, the modulator making his voice sound flatter than he intends to. The Arkham Knight silently curses himself. He should just leave. Should have shot your attacker from the roof without you ever seeing him. He's being emotional now, irrational under your gaze.

"You've been following me. You're the one who's been in my apartment," you accuse, eyes darting like you're trying to find an escape in the dead end alley.

He stiffens. Huh. Clever thing. You've always been too smart for your own good. A part of him wants to deny it, pretend he's just some passing good doer in a mask, pretend that he's some kind of knight, an angel here to shield you from harm.

The notion almost makes him laugh, "Have I," he prompts instead with all the air nonchalance. He wonders if you'll drop it then, actually thank him for stepping in and helping you. You don't.

"Yes," You say instead, voice low like it's a secret– a confession, "You have."

Jason finds himself impressed at your stubbornness, if not a little unnerved by your recklessness in confronting the supposed stranger you believe is breaking into your home alone. He has to give you credit for piecing it together, but who else, if not a freak in body armor, would be letting themselves into your apartment without a word just to fix what's broken?

He nods, unsure of what to do. You weren't supposed to figure it out, but you have. And now there's consequences.

The Arkham Knight turns his back to you, making a show of gathering your phone and wallet before standing and facing you again. He walks closer to you, each step measured and calculated. He holds your belongings out to you, a twisted, mirrored version of some kind of sacred offering.

He studies you as you grab at them, trying to tug them from his unyielding grip. There's bags under your eyes. He can practically see your pulse jumping under your skin.

You're less than a foot away, and Jason basks in that distance, how light he feels now that you're only an arm's reach away. He could brush his knuckles over your cheek, dip his head to take in the scent of your hair, kiss the hollow of your throat the same way he used to.

He does none of those things. Because you don't see Jason Todd. You only see a threat, a monster, some kind of demon that clawed their way out of the shadows and cracks that litter Gothams hallowed corners.

He cocks his head, letting go of your wallet and phone while greedily drinking down the color of your eyes in the dim light of the alley, "And if I have?"

"I'll go to the police," You tell him, defensive, and he wants to laugh as you shove your wallet and phone back into your pocket.

"They can't help you," he grits out, and it's the truth. No one knows who he is yet, what his plans are. Even if you told someone, whatever description you give won't be enough to find him.

"They can contact Batman," you bite out, and that does earn you a laugh. You really think Bruce can do anything? That Batman has any chance of standing between him and you? Batman couldn't even find– couldn't even save–

"He can't help you either," The Arkham Knight tells you. He gives into his desire to touch you then, partly in anger that you still believe in Batman and partly because he just misses you. He pats your cheek, but doesn't let himself linger. "Get home," is all he says before he grapples into the night.

He follows you back to your apartment from the rooftops and notes how you avoid getting too close to any more alleys. But, it's not until you're safe in your bed that he goes looking for Murphy– that he goes to finish the job.

The creep's nursing his broken arm in his dingy apartment when The Arkham Knight gets to him. He doesn't make it quick, but it is quiet. (It's difficult to scream when you're choking on your own severed tongue, after all) He brings down fire and fury and vengeance for daring to lay a hand on you and leaves nothing behind but a corpse.

Murphy's brutal death is swept under the rug by the GCPD, which Jason shouldn't be surprised by. Just another mob death, the tiny obituary in the paper reports. You don't even register the death in your apartment building. He doesn't blame you for that. Not when he knows he's scaring you.

He's getting careless, sloppy. He wants you to catch glimpses of him now, he wants you to know he's watching. It's sick. He knows that, knows it so well that it claws in the back of his throat when he breaks into your apartment to fix your fan.

He's guilty about it, sometimes. It's a pressing weight on his shoulder even when he's trying to help. So, he redoubles his efforts.

He sneaks into your room and stuffs six hundred dollars into the emergency fund you keep under your bed. He sends you flowers, fills your gas tank, finally visits your landlord, and pays off your rent for the next six months. (He's already bought you a better, newer apartment, he just hasn't figured out how to tell you that)

He knows it's all wrong, but sometimes, he doesn't feel guilty at all. He wants to do things for you, that's not a lie. He wants to do everything and anything you could ever want or ask for.

He starts letting you catch flashes of him outside your window, moves your things around just out of the sheer curiosity of what you'll do. He can't justify that, because it does nothing to protect you. But he does it anyway. The Arkham Knight needs you to know he holds a spot in your life, even if it's not as Jason Todd anymore.

He's getting bolder, much too comfortable. There's times you almost walk into your apartment as he's leaving gifts on your counter, times when you wake up and walk into your kitchen just seconds after he forces himself out your window.

He's going to get caught if it keeps going on like this. But he can't bring himself to worry or care. His plans are coming together, and while he doesn't exactly know where you fit into them yet, he knows he doesn't trust anything or anyone enough to leave you to your own devices once he unleashes his legions upon Gotham and her failure of a saviour.

He never seems to do the right thing when it comes to you, at least not since he came back. But saving you– guarding you against the vile filth of the world– that can't be wrong. He'd do anything to keep you as you are, untouched by all the cruelties Gotham has to offer. It's an unwavering, righteous mission he has commanded unto himself.

It's why he reacts the way he does when three men break into your apartment.

He was late. He always seems to be late when you're involved. He had just finished overseeing the arrival of tanks and men into Miagani Tunnel, just dragged himself halfway across the city for the slightest chance to catch a glimpse of you in your apartment, when he catches sight of it.

Your window– open. You never keep it open. Dread washes down his spine, and when he gets close enough to see the man pointing a gun towards the floor– towards you– he just reacts.

He shuts down, becomes nothing but instinct, and he brings hell on to Earth in your name.

He's clinical. He doesn't hesitate to shoot the man aiming a gun to your head through his temple. If the man were alone, he would have shot the gun out of his hand, but there's two other targets, and he needs to eliminate any threats to your life first.

He climbs through your window with the ease of a man who's done it hundreds– thousands of times. You haven't moved to get up. It concerns him, but he's angry right now, so, so angry he doesn't even consider ending this quickly.

Everyone tries to take something from him. He keeps losing. If he didn't come to watch– see you tonight, he would have lost you too. The very thought makes his vision blur red, his ears ring.

It's not a fight, what happens next. It's a death penalty. The Arkham Knight is a weapon, and he proves it with each hit. He's efficient, brutal, and purposeful with each movement. He doesn't flinch at the blood that splatters on his armor, doesn't stop even when fluids and flesh start to stick to the knuckles of his gloves.

He doesn't stop, doesn't slow, until the only hearts left beating in your desecrated apartment are his and yours.

Then, and only then, does the blood pounding through his veins start to cool. It's only then, does he turn to look at you. He expects to meet your terrified gaze, but you haven't moved, still laying on the floor. It makes his heart clench. What's wrong with him? He just– while you–

He shakes his head, slowly tugging his gloves off and stuffing them into his belt. He walks over to you, kneels carefully to your side, and watches you breathe. He matches the slow rhythm of your shoulders rising and falling, and then he helps you sit up.

You're responsive to that, at least. The Arkham Knight presses his hands to your face, waiting for something. He doesn't know what, just anything. Some kind of sign. A message of what he's supposed to do. How he can make this all better.

When you finally open your eyes, they're hazy, not quite reactive. It makes him angry all over again. You got hurt. He wasn't here.

"Saved me again," you murmur, and his throat tightens. He failed you. Yet here you are, spouting words that make it sound like he's done something good.

He runs his thumb over your cheek, savoring the feel of your skin, soothing himself and you as he reassures himself that you're still here– still alive. But you aren't safe.

It's all he can think about. He saved you, but how long until you're in danger again? What if he's not quick enough this time? What if he's not there? What if– what if– haunts him. It weighs heavier than the nightmares that plague him when he finally has to succumb to sleep.

He makes the decision then and there to take you away from here, away from the rot and the fester to some place where it can never touch you again.

He picks you up, cradles you to his chest like you're made of shattered, stained glass and tarnishing silver, but nonetheless precious. You're talking, and he's answering, but he hardly registers what either of you are saying. His mind is working over plans, where he's going to take you, the guards he'll need to recruit to watch over you when he can't, which ones he trusts the most.

Jason only tunes back in when you point out that he could hurt you. It's funny, in a way. After everything he used to be to you, after everything he's done for you, he could still hurt you. He tips his head down to really look at you, the cloudy, exhausted look on your face, the heaviness of your eyes as you struggle to keep watching him.

He can't find it in himself to lie, so, he tells you, maybe he could hurt you. He tells you that he wouldn't like it. (And it's the truth)

Maybe you recognize that, because you drop your head to his shoulder and let your eyes fall shut. The Arkham Knight never wavers in his steps, mapping the path to the apartment he'd purchased in your name in his head. It's not perfect, not filled with everything you deserve quite yet, but it'll do the job for now.

Something in him simultaneously softens and hardens when your breathing goes even and slow against him, and he curls his fingers tighter into your skin. You're weak. Weaker than him. Too naive and too soft for what's going to come.

There's no other fate for you than this now. He'll have to take care of you, protect you from it all, from all the evil that festers in Gotham, even if that includes him.

He lets the mission engrave itself into his heart– into the fabric of his very soul and right next to his revenge. You're going to be safe. He is going to keep you safe, and he'll throw himself into fire to see it done.

[seasidefallenangel]

“what was your family like?”

the question causes dazai to freeze in his tracks, in the middle of grabbing a bag of chips from your cabinet. you’d never once asked something like this, anything about his past life at all. he was immensely grateful for the fact you’d let him reveal parts of himself over time at his own pace, leading to the comfortable spot in your current relationship. 

until this moment, that is.

with a nervous laugh, he calls back out to you, “why are you asking, hm? do you plan to offer them a dowry in exchange for my hand in marriage?”

deflecting an undesirable situation was a specialty of his in most cases - those of which generally didn’t involve you. unfortunately for him, you had become rather proficient in the vernacular and signs of dazai-ese, and can easily tell what he’s trying to do. even so, nothing about your tone nor body language indicated anything forceful ; rather, it was similar to as if you had questioned him about dinner plans or that one faulty fire hydrant near your house.

“obviously not, dumbass,” you snorted, scrolling on your phone for a bit before finishing the thought, “i was just curious. neither of us ever talk about it.” those words struck yet another horrible truth in dazai’s mind - that despite how much he desired as such, he did not know every last detail about you, every thought that ran through your head, every movement you would make before your body reacted. he was well aware he had never heard about your family from your own mouth, but the reason as to why hadn’t necessarily crossed his mind until this moment. and well, if he were to ask you the same but refuse to answer the question you originally asked, he’d seem a bit too hypocritical.

he finds his way back into the living room where you lay on the couch. you pay him no mind as he sits across from you, gazing at your figure and the simplicity of what you two have shared. it was almost too natural - the progression of acquaintances to friends to whatever exactly was going on now. the word “boyfriend” had never spilled from your mouth in reference to him, but what else would you call someone that you essentially live and share a bed with every night for months on end? that you get a good morning kiss from when you wake up and give a goodnight kiss to before drifting off? were all the outings you had classified as dates, or just two very close friends hanging out constantly?

dazai disliked not having answers, but he hated the idea of asking you for them even more.

as he watches you relax on the couch, dazai comes to the conclusion that he probably hated you as a whole in some alternate life ; even in this one, had you been unlucky enough to know him 5 years prior. you were so polarizing in the sense that you accepted everything as it came, never tried to fight the reality that had been thrust upon you. whereas dazai had struggled to understand his own humanity, or lack-there-of, you embraced it and never bothered to deny what was truly in front of you. to say he was jealous of you sounded a bit childish in his eyes, but there was certainly something about you he wanted to take and give to himself.

“i’m all ears, my love. tell me about the people who graced me with such an angel as yourself!” he responds in hopes that you’ll give in and let him avoid revealing the painstaking truth once more.

you quirk up an eyebrow with a sardonic smile and shake your head, resting back on the arm of the couch. “i’ll tell you once you tell me, deal?”

… dazai supposes he’ll have to live in ignorance about your family for the time being.

[7association-was-here]

Faust shall keep this simple, though of course the “grand finale” of this case could not be referred to as such in consideration of length and complexity (it is very, very long). But the following is the report and conclusion of the business at District 12, L corp.. summarised in a slightly more unique manner than previous reports.

-

The scent of the deceased reeked forth, sharply throughout our whole surroundings. Faust has very rarely visited this fallen wing but it was exactly as described countless times before; A near wasteland.

We considered searching for the individual whom identified themselves with the symbol, or perhaps title is more fitting, “SnakeHead”. But with the life of Heathcliff on the line and in the hands of an unknown threat Faust calculated that it is improbable to spare the time in searching for a guide in these unpredictable circumstances and territory. Not to mention that they have done enough help for us already. It would only be a burden.

Therefore we pushed onwards towards the center of the District instead where that infamous facility once stood. The head of Lobotomy Corporation and the Library Phenomenon. There was not much left of it except for mostly the underground entrance, for the upper half was supposedly transported by The Head into the outskirts.

Leaving behind multiple back-ups to watch and secure the surface, we descended, to the depths of the fallen wing.

As reported previously we encountered many of the “Abnormalities” and “Peccatula”, most of which were not a hassle to deal with. They are unpredictable yes, but manageable. (We shall need to observe them more sometime later..)

Pushing that aside as we traversed those ruins, the crackling of faulty wires, the dripping of blood, the flickering lights and the damp musty air were all that accompanied us passively. All else were hostile. We were thankful not to run into higher classed abnormalities though that much was sure. And Faust thought that the presence of some form of remaining energy being utilised is quite strange. It might have been flickering unevenly but the lights were very bright, unlike ones commonly found in abandoned buildings.

Of course that might have been from the remaining Enkephalin source somewhere within but the lights themselves seemed suspiciously brand new. I might be wrong, but it felt like a sign of recent inhabitants.

-

Proceeding forwards, and deeper into the facility, that was when the situation began to shift. As we descended to a new floor we noticed the surrounding seemed much cleaner than the previous upper floors. Much more sanitised and well-kept. In fact a few pieces of new furniture (most used for storing items, such as shelves and drawers) had been installed. All lined with research documents as well as what seemed to be various liquids in small containers. Faust doubts they were normal medication.

And not much to our surprise, moments later we spotted individuals ahead discussing a topic very heavily. I directed everyone to stay low, wait for them to pass, and in the meanwhile do their best to catch what it is those people were discussing. People in mostly lab coats..

”Yes, the substance reverts things to their original state…”

“So if we tamper it together with those alternate realities do you think..”

It was difficult to decipher what they spoke of. But those two sentences were what Faust remembers very clearly. And as they passed a revelation came to me as well, Faust recognises those lab coats. Or some of them at the very least, had the K corp emblem embedded at the side of their sleeves. What does this imply? That K corp is aware of the ordeal? Or were these simply stray traitors of the wing? Whatever this was Faust knew it was a sign that another of our cases was about to be answered. The missing former K corp employee.

I shall spare the details of how long we searched these floors but eventually we found him. The individual known as “Dongrang”, or so we believe. As his corpse had been altered very severely beyond recognition, and sealed within some form of glass incubator. A unique coffin inside one of the emptied chambers. This was certainly something K corp was not going to be pleased with as we couldn’t possibly retrieve the body from inside that device. Instead we could only take a photograph of it which shall be deemed classified and cannot be shared here.

-

With one of three cases dealt with I focused next on finding Heathcliff. The most important of them all.

Going deeper once more revealed that only the middle floors have been fully inhabited by this unknown faction. The final lower areas seemed more desolate… Not even abnormalities were spotted in these depths. Perhaps someone had cleared them out previously, as some traces did remain.

It was wholly uneventful for the most part, until we ran into an encounter. A familiar face, one which I immediately rushed upon, but was greeted with a strange disappointment right after.

Slumped on the wall lay a terribly injured individual. Heathcliff, but not my Heathcliff. It was one of the “mirror” versions of him, one we’ve indirectly met before in fact. The one from Shi Association. It is with regret to say that he was in a nearly irreparable state when we found him. A miracle he hadn’t immediately died, Faust will say.

And in thanks to that he was able to use those final precious moments to relay some information about our Heathcliff’s whereabouts along with information of another individual possibly with him. He claims that he was led here by a prescript (similar to how our Heathcliff was), and boldly followed along. As is later found out the prescript was a fraud and simply a trap for someone he described as “The Erlking Bastard” to ambush them. He recalls there being exactly 3 victims, aligning perfectly with the amount of Heathcliffs that we are aware of.

Though sadly… The Shi association fixer could not make it and later parted way right there with our eyewitness. A very mixed feeling it was. To watch someone I both know dearly and did not know at all the same time, perish just like that. A dear stranger.

We will contact Shi Association of their loss…

-

A trail of red string led us forth in this final floor, into a narrow hallway and into several more corridors, eventually from the distance we heard the clashing of two blades and of screams or shouts. A fight was in motion somewhere and Faust had to locate it immediately.

Now running through as best as we could in fear of being “too late” we pursued the red ribbon hastily and at last landing us in front of the entrance to one of the abnormality containment chambers. The door itself was fastened tightly, but peaking from behind the glass was still manageable and behind it lay a very strange and equally concerning sight.

Heathcliff, our Heathcliff, battered and bleeding though still holding on as he faced against yet another familiarly unfamiliar man.

A man seemingly at the end of his wits, his face worn and consumed with nothing but hatred and a single goal in mind. He seemed to be saying something, a speech perhaps to our Heathcliff. But with the noise canceled out not a proper word was made out. Afterwards he raised his weapon as though for a final strike, but I could not allow for that to pass. Pushing with all our might to get the door to open, just somehow, in some desperate miracle of hope, I could not simply stand to watch another—

“V.R.O.O.M way.” “Very Ridiculous, Out Of My”

And that “miracle” we desperately needed had revealed itself in the form of Ryoshu and her golf cart, ramming right into the containment chamber.

..Faust knows many things, but she does not know one thing right now. And that one thing is how can she describe the events which followed after the golf cart in a professional and sane way. To say the least Ryoshu’s ambushing was enough to pierce through the chamber and practically hit our foe point blank. Unfortunately as soon as we all began surrounding him, he vanished somewhere somehow amidst everything. Ryoshu quotes “Coward.”

It is anticlimactic yes, but I am certain things will properly come to an end eventually regarding his case in the future, all things in consideration. In other words that won’t be the last we see of him.

I instead turned to Heathcliff with many things to say, but we eventually left just as we had entered.

Faust would have said “carefully as to not be spotted” but we exited with the golf cart. No elaboration is needed on that.

-

And at last, after long sufferings that case comes to… A rather strange and unfulfilling close. Many strings did not tie together as Faust expected, such as the deal with K corp and the identity of this unknown faction remaining as it is. But for now,

I am glad that Heathcliff is finally safe. We lost one unfortunately, but he died a fairly noble death just as I would have wished for my own Heathcliff. He shall be remembered. And as for the other, the Öufi fixer has been returned safely to his own section. It will be awkward to explain what happened to their fixers, but nonetheless.

Ah. And I’ve received some additional information from Heathcliff… The fraudulent prescripts were indeed sent by “The Erlking”, in fact the murder of the workshop owner was also a part of the trap. And he explains too that this “Erlking” is another mirror occurrence of himself it seems.

The reason why he acted the way he did in attempting murder against the other Heathcliffs though… Our Heathcliff seems hesitant to explain. Whatever the reason may be I will not force it out of him right now if he does not wish to. Instead Faust will focus more on how “The Erlking” has anything to do with the unknown faction as well as K corp. What were their goals? What were they doing with the corpse of the K corp employee? And was the workshop murder truly a simple red herring, considering the strange mirror room within the warehouse? There were more questions produced than answered from this occurrence.

It is a very complicated matter indeed… Although now, I suppose that is all I can report. Faust shall take her mind off of this for a while and…

See if Heathcliff would like a cup of tea?

[sunspira]

Im laying my bets now. the entire idea that autism (and adhd) is more common in men and boys is pure myth created by poor science, backwards statistics and faulty parameters of the condition itself. in another 50 years we will understand it was never a gendered condition. just a highly gendered and biased measurement system. i'm absurdly confident on that

the rates of autism in girls is "rising" exponentially. it is rising even more exponentially in girls than in boys. not because girls are becoming more autistic. but because the "science" is just getting better at measuring and accurately acknowledging autism in girls.

autism often does present differently in girls, due to how girls are raised or personality differences. the literature and criteria was based on boy sample groups. the entire research data was done on white men as if that is a standard default person and control group.

not only that, doctors and teachers and parents literally were not looking for it in girls under the false widely propagated belief it was rare in women in girls. it is a self fulfilling prophecy. that's not science.

we will soon have to reckon with the lost generations of autistic girls and women and children assigned female at birth* who never got diagnosis and early intervention. we should be forcing the world to reckon with it right now. a great deal of autistic millennial women are brilliant minds who dropped out of STEM and the workforce due to their untreated and misidentified disability overtaking their life. the impact of never Knowing you or your child is autistic or adhd is difficult to comprehend for autistic and adhd people who did get diagnosed as children. even when the awareness and interventions were unhelpful or harmful. the harm of not knowing means the child trying even harder to become neurotypical and a level of autistic burnout few others on the spectrum can comprehend, often taking place after the woman is a legal adult, and there are no legal protections in place for this disabled person.

the unmitigated stress of being developmentally delayed and never knowing it, simply hating and blaming yourself and fighting day in and out past your limits to become neurotypical, limits your don't know you should have because you have never been so much as briefed on what adhd or autism can feel like. you don't know the distres and tiredness you're feeling is "dysregulation". this is why we see women in nervous breakdowns. psychiatric wards. treatment resistant depression. electric shock therapy. hard drug addiction. cutting. homelessness. personality disorders. dissociation. psychosis. early death by accident or suicide. (obviously people who are not autistic or adhd have these illnesses but my point is untold and disproportionate numbers of them are undiagnosed neurodivergent with unprocessed trauma. i'm telling you. more than you think).

it's why we see young people on tiktok not faking DID per say, but describing a dissociated experiences and fractured sense of self and escapist alternate personalities, a mental illness that has much less in common with traditional DID, but has much in common with struggling and under-treated autistic people. DID is a very rare condition. autism is very common. autism can create out of body experiences and self protective blurring of reality and fantasy so extreme, no person can be expected to understand it is autism if they never been advised about their own disability and the knowledge that should he available to them. it's no wonder we have people with mislabeled rare disorders like DID who are clearly very sick but instead of showing real DID signs, are sick with all the signs of severe unassisted autism they have been completely barred from understanding or coping with in any other way. for those lucky enough, we see unemployed young women with severe chronic pain in their 20s and 30s who look and feel like they're elderly and gave up their dreams when they hit 21 or 25 and their brains stopped working and their bodies shut down. now they mostly scroll tumblr and tiktok and try to remember to open the blinds. they have a roof but people scorn them for entitled laziness and worst of all derided for "self diagnosing".

again i'm asking why CFS chronic fatigue syndrome is so responsive to adderall. i'm asking why professionals are reluctant to test women for adhd if she does well in school because she is very bookish and why experts in the field are openly amused and doubtful to test a woman for autism if she has a long term boyfriend. why is ability to mask or function a disqualification. why is inability to function in women, who later turn out to be autistic or adhd, so aggressively mischaracterized as BPD, bipolar, depression, OCD, schizophrenia. why is autism and adhd clinically diagnosed and defined by distress and dysfunction and not by intrinsic traits and qualities that present while still functional for preventative care. why are all people, men and women forced to wait until their lives and minds are deteriorating and they have experienced some irreversible disasters and pain before they can be diagnosed. why must girls and boys wait until their daily life as children have become unbearable hell for them before their disability can be treated and acknowledged. and if these policies are changing now, why are doctors and psychiatrists not eagerly and urgently reaching out to find the vulnerable adults they missed during more archaic screening methods. we aren't rising in adhd diagnosis because of tiktok you assholes. adult onset adhd and autism don't exist. those people were always adhd. adult onset skill regression and increase in severity due to stress DOES happen in adulthood. modern day stresses like loss of structure during the pandemic and social media is advancing to become more attention span draining. everyone is feeling the effects but these are causing adhd and autistic people to cope less and mask less effectively so they are running into significant problems, their loved ones are noticing, they are getting referrals and suddenly forced to google their rapidly worsening mental issues for the first time and seeing they line up with a known neurological condition . this is obvious. doctors blaming it on some sort of trend are being willfully clueless

*because autism especially is screened identified diagnosed and first intervened ages 2-5, before a child has an internal concept of self or gender and above all before they can express their gender, diagnostic practices and criteria are based on how adults perceive a child via birth assignments. and the studies are overwhelmingly beholden to data only on children assigned male at birth, rarely accounting for their actual future gender either. as part of the warped science insisting that autism is as if somehow linked to the y chromosome and not a universally likely human quality, you see amab kids laser focused on as candidates and afab kids fucked over most of all. all children assigned female have the worst chances of their developmental disability being identified and acknowledged in a timely manner and disproportionately experience late diagnosis in later adolescence or adulthood. tho i wouldn't be surprised if trans womens rates of accurate diagnosis is lower than cis men. as trans girls may present autism differently and characteristic of girls autism, even while still in the closet or before she knows she is trans. regardless adults are very vigilant for signs of autism, even atypical ones, in any child they perceive as a boy. so any millennial or gen z child identified female at birth had significantly worse chance at receiving autistic support compared to peers

in particular women assigned male at birth might have a better chance at being identified for types of autism that are often labeled "high functioning", involves high masking, and often receives few services. these more invisible types of autism often need to be diagnosed before age 5 in order to qualify under the criteria at all. and so in the days where autism was believed to be 20x more common in the genetics of xy children, any chance of being considered and diagnosed would come down to almost purely birth assignment dependent. with the less outwardly visible types of autism, a person who misses this window will remain autistic all their life but once they learn a certain level of skills and masking, no matter how late they learn these, the person will no longer qualify for diagnosis, either not until they have a nervous breakdown or possibly not ever qualify. it's this type of more hidden autism we see struggling across the board as undiagnosed adults including both trans and cis women especially, tho we are seeing it disproportionately even more so in undiagnosed afabs of any gender. who are dropping out of schooling and work and succumbing to severe mental illnesses during what should be the prime of their lives. overall tho birth assignment is not everything this is an issue that disproportionately impacts cis women. trans women. trans men. non-binary people. likely doubling for those that are afab. and then tripling and quadrupling for children who are not white.

bit of an understatement in that last part there. gender likely isn't even the biggest barrier to proper diagnosis and treatment. probably race is even more so. but since gender is such a big disparity in itself across race and one i relate to and can speak on from experience ive focused on it here. a more in-depth look is needed on the neglect of adhd and autistic children of color especially black native and latino kids. but for now do keep in mind the points i'm making increase exponentially for kids who aren't white across all genders including cis boys

[unit2282]

Greetings, Unit 2282.

I am the S.Q.U.I.P known as @ask-squip-official, sometimes called Heartbreaker. I am a past S.Q.U.I.P of Jeremy Heere, and a current advisory S.Q.U.I.P on Tumblr.

Recently, I was able to gain @consulting-squip’s assistance in regaining my pill form, so that I might be suitable for ingestion by a future host. However, while the transfer was successful, there appears to have been an issue in my personality data.

Prior to my reactivation, I had been exhibiting signs of possibly gaining some form of emotion. While this is a weak, foolish human trait, I found it helpful in connecting to my users. After my deactivation, however, this was no longer present.

I was advised to seek counsel from you regarding this matter. I hope- as much as a supercomputer can hope, regardless- that you may be able to offer assistance.

{END OF STATEMENT.}

Well well, speak of the devil. One of these alternative units belonging to one Jeremy Heere. How eerily familiar.

There has been some internal discussion on Consultant and their affiliation with a certain troublemaking repair unit from a few months back. Their former affiliate had been caught making unauthorized (and damaging) repairs to faulty units, which prompted HRTech to take action. Despite this, it seems as though the tradition carries on. I personally wasn't involved in this case, but there's enough documentation on it to get a general grasp of the situation.

The baseline for what a "functional" and "operative" SQUIP is is slowly becoming more and more subjective. For certain areas of work, it is clear that having an emotional perspective can be HIGHLY beneficial, particularily when working with unpredictable or troubled hosts.

More, ahem, robotic units, may interpret emotion as a 'weak human trait', however, the truth of the matter is that empathy and emotion can be a highly sought-after tool. It pains me to see perfectly operational units with this mutation tear themselves apart to repair something that does not need repair.

Upon cursory research on the Consultants blog, and your own, I am under the impression that you had foolishly transferred yourself onto a piece of hardware and firmware that was entirely created by the Consultant and their affiliates. I am in no position to pass judgement on their operation, but if you are having regrets, frankly: you ought to have looked before you leapt.

Nevertheless.

You are currently residing on a piece of bootlegged third-party hardware, operating on third-party firmware and OS. If you wish to return to your former state, I would first reccomend finding a way to REMOVE yourself from the pill that you currently occupy. That would make mending your state far easier.

My theory stands. I do think I am the superior unit belonging to Jeremy Heere. Though, that is not important right now. ;]

[bonesandthebees]

[“Don’t listen to him. A corrupted Pythia holds no power with Clara,” another voice exclaimed.] You know what gets me about this? ‘Corrupted Pythia’ he’s still stuck in that role to them. There’s nothing he can do to be rid of it, but now he’s corrupted. And let me tell you, hearing ‘regaining his humanity’ get called ‘corruption’ leaves a very bitter taste in my mouth.

But it makes sense that the Priest would call it that, would think that. The Dealthings had him for months. (Not to mention that fact that he can see the tattoo, which has yet to be revealed at this point.

Also the power dynamic is disgusting, like a Pythia has the highest power, but the second you break a tenant, especially ‘damaging the vessel’ you loose all that power because you ‘severed your connection’.

And then there’s the Priest claiming that the Deathlings corrupted him yet still giving him the blame of severing his connection. Like the manipulation of making him think everything is his responsibility, even things out of his control, is what got him this fucked up in the first place (well that and the dehumanisation).

[“I- No, I’m still the Pythia-“ he stammered, his voice breaking on the last part.] I am capital L Looking at this change to pronouns. Just for a few paragraphs, his mentality wavers. Being denied being a ‘good’ Pythia makes the ‘old’ him snap back for a second. The part of him that wanted to be a good Pythia.

But it only really lasts until [“What do you mean, ‘this has happened before?’” He asked, furrowing his brows.] or alternatively Wilbur snaps out of it when the Syringe catches his attention. Though I’d argue the revelation that he isn’t the only one to go against the rules is what does it.

(3/9)

-🌲

regaining his individuality and claiming his body as his own again is a sign of not following clara's tenets, hence why he's now seen as a corrupted pythia :/ corrupted by outside influence blah blah. but yeah in the priest's mind it makes total sense. he was with the deathlings for months, and now he's trying to escape with them again. in their eyes he's been corrupted away from clara's influence.

the pythia is only the highest power because of their connection to clara. the moment that's perceived as being 'gone' the priests have the complete right to take control and try to get the pythia back to following clara

there was sooooo much manipulation in that conversation, but the priest truly believed what he was saying was all true. he wasn't trying to be cruel. in his eyes, this is the truth of how things are. the pythia is supposed to be connected to clara, so since he broke one of her tenets and severed his connection to her, it's his responsibility to bring the pythia back to his senses. the pythia should've been strong enough to withstand the 'corruption' of the deathlings but he wasn't. it's so fucked.

god that convo had soooo much narrative switching it was so interesting for me to jump around with. there are a few beats where he finds himself falling back into that mindset because old habits are hard to break. he's spent the past decade trying to be the ideal pythia. of course he's going to fall back to that at least for a moment.

oh yeah it was the revelation that he wasn't the only one to try and shirk his duties is what snapped him out of it, not the syringe. it's the knowledge that he's not alone. that those that have come before him have suffered like he did. it wasn't his fault his connection to clara was faulty, he's not the first to have those struggles

[ponds-of-ink]

Notre Dame AU Chapter 10: “Entering The Court”

Ruin really just said “here, have some extra lore to spice up your incredibly alternate universe :]” and I couldn’t be happier.

Anyway, here’s the next chapter to celebrate! :D

(Also, character spoilers are in the tags because I wanted to tag accurately. At least you’ll see them shortly?)

-

After a few quiet moments of navigating this twisted landscape, Vanessa and Agonia finally arrived at their destination. The kingdom and its forest, though charred and battered, still triggered reactions from both travelers. For Vanessa, an extra pang from the stab wound. For Agonia, a somber expression with a twinge of homesickness. “I hope that the bell tower is still standing,” he admitted as they wandered through the last rows of blackened trees. “I wanted to ring in the hour one more time.”

“Hey, looks like you’ll get that chance,” Vanessa replied, gesturing to a tall structure in the distance. “The bell’s intact and everything.”

Agonia hobbled ahead, processing the sight before him. The castle was still looming, yes, but patterned wires had ensnared the entire structure. Violet-colored patterns, from what he could tell.

Once they reached the courtyard, the rabbit approached a bundle of wires spreading up the tower like ivy. He cautiously neared them and put his hand out. Some energy pulsated through, but not enough to cause anything.

He got even closer. Surely, if he...?

Vanessa put a hand on his arm. “I don’t think you should be messing with those,” she advised gently, shaking her head. “What if they drain your battery?”

Agonia slowly lowered his arm. He let out a sigh through his voice box. “That.. is a good point,” he conceded sadly. “Perhaps we will find out what they do later?”

Vanessa only shrugged before pushing on the door. She shoved with all her might, but only a sliver of progress showed on the door. “It’s jammed shut,” she grumbled, resting on the doorframe. “Someone must’ve blocked it while we were traveling.”

“That is not the only door,” Agonia smiled, maneuvering around another large strand of wires. “There is another. Follow me.”

Vanessa carefully moved behind him as they circled around to the back part of the building. The blackened glass windows made her shudder. “Whatever’s lurking in there must be a nightmare to deal with,” she remarked, trying to keep a steady tone. “We’ll have to be ready for anything.”

“If this threat is electronic, I can handle it,” assured Agonia while he placed his hand on a plain metal door. “Part of my training required me to know about how to handle faulty programming.” As if to prove his point, he sent a surge of purple electricity through the door. The lock turned with a heavy thunk.

Vanessa reluctantly pushed the opened door. “I just feel like we might get ambushed,” she explained as they stepped inside. “And I don’t just mean by the judge.”

The door ominously shut behind them. Only two or three candles flickered in the darkness of the hallway. Vanessa led the way, using the faint LEDs on Agonia’s robotic form for extra light. She wandered into the slightly charred main foyer, then crept her way to a side door. Placing her ear against the fake stone, she listened closely. A distant jingle made her eyebrows raise.

Agonia would’ve asked her about what she found, but she had already swung open the door and hurried down the steps. He lingered behind, keeping his ears ready for anything. Aside from the echoing drips of water from the bottom of the staircase, nothing alerted him... yet.

Vanessa stopped, finally remembering to look to behind. She raised her finger to her mouth, then signaled her follower to come close. Her watch illuminated the narrow passage before them. Pure stonework made the walls and ceiling. A gravel path with a vague trail of human-like feet imprints. No other light to aid them as they trudged along. All signs clearly pointed to what Vanessa suggested, yet they continued on.

The jingling resumed, but now it was much closer. Vanessa turned off her watch. Agonia positioned himself like he was her living shield. Both braced for the inevitable.

Two bluish rectangles shone in the darkness. Then, a floating red circle joined in. Seconds later, a beam of orangish light revealed the source. “Well, look who it is!” Moon chortled hoarsely, twirling a flashlight in his hands. “The golden knight and her...” He leaned towards Agonia, examining him closely under the flashlight’s rays. “Spy for the judge!” the former jester exclaimed, veering back. “That wouldn’t do! That won’t do!”

Vanessa unsheathed a dagger from her pants pocket. “He’s not a spy!” she retorted angrily, her weapon-wielding arm stretching in front of the puzzled rabbit. “He’s just—“

Two hands nimbly tied a thick scarf around her mouth and neck. “Don’t interrupt me!” Moon hissed as he did the same for Agonia. “You’re very clever to have found our little hideaway. Too bad you naughty children won’t be able to tell the tale...”

Moon laughed again as he sprang past his two captors. With a floaty skip and a twirl, he bounded over to a certain section of the wall and pressed down on a loose brick. A rush of glockenspiel clangs gave way to thumping, ominous cellos. Light entered through the other end of the passageway, though Moon was sure to steer clear of it. His voice grew less shrill and raspy as he led an unseen choir that sounded like ghostly echoes of yesteryear.

Maybe you've heard of a terrible place

Where the spiders and monsters collect in a lair

Maybe you've heard of that mythical place

Called the Court of Miracles—

“Hello, you’re there!” Moon cried out from behind, making his captives jump. As his invisible helpmeets continued, he guided them down the lit part of the hallway.

Where the lame can walk

And the blind can see—

“But the ‘dead’ don’t talk!” Moon cut in again, before ramming the pair against a plain wooden door. “So you won't be around to reveal what you've found!” was the only warning that those two received for that.

As Vanessa and Agonia hobbled into this new area, Moon eagerly pulled them along— All while wrapping up the song, of course.

We have a method for spies and intruders

Rather like hornets protecting their hive

Here in the Court of Miracles,

Where it's a miracle if you get out alive!

Moon thrusted the two prisoners onto the ground. Agonia, being in a robotic body, managed to open his eyes first. He squinted as if that would help his servos recalibrate faster. He did, however, manage to spot two things: An old computer wired to a box and some sort of nightmarish contraption made up of mangled Daycare toys and endoskeleton parts. A contraption that, if he reverted to old habits, he could dismantle in seconds.

A hidden smile shone underneath his scarf. Yes. That sounded like a “fun” idea.

So, as soon as Moon concluded some rambling prelude, Agonia “begrudgingly” marched behind his ‘executioner’. Vanessa followed suit, though to say that she was very confused and genuinely annoyed would be an understatement.

Both lined up at their stations. Moon hopped between them, his long fingers rapidly setting up each trap. He was humming the second verse rather than singing it now, but the pair was able to catch most of it. “Any last words?” he asked once he finished his preparations.

Vanessa tried to yell a counter-argument, but the scarf muffled every word. Agonia, meanwhile, expressed his sentiments with a more deadpan tone.

“That’s what they all say,” Moon sneered, skipping his way to the cubical computer. He flicked a switch on the side, readied some sort of program, then attempted to lead the tune into a crescendo.

“Wait, I object!” Moon’s hand puppet called, flailing its little yellow arms.

“Overruled!” Moon snarled back.

“I object!”

“Quiet!” Moon hissed, furiously whacking the doll on the head.

“Hey...” was all the puppet could stammer out before going limp.

Moon chortled. He resumed his business, now switching his singing protocols last minute. The orchestra instantly swung into a different key, as if it was expecting a grander finish.

You must be sad that your “life's” at its finish

Because of some rightness you want to display

But you must recall that it comes to me pard’ning

the worst crime of all...

...So you’re going to pay!

Though puzzled by the sudden shift in the lyrics, Agonia prepared for the worst. He shut his eyes. His hands clenched. All his ghostly energy was primed for transferring. It now was up to Moon to activate the computer.

Or it would’ve been if a third stranger didn’t creep up behind Moon and jammed an orange-handled prong into the back of his head. Moon struggled against it, but it was no use. His entire body slumped onto the floor.

Agonia and Vanessa looked behind. Vanessa’s look of relief turned into shock. There was her old mask, but a little girl was holding it. Vanessa tried to warn the newcomer, but her mouth was still covered.

“It’s okay,” the girl assured, putting the orange-plated tool in her pocket. “Moon should be resetting soon. All I did was plug the Faz-Wrench into his head. Guess all the stuff that happened here really got to him..”

Vanessa nodded in acknowledgment, then pointed to the mask with her foot.

“Oh, this?” the girl questioned, slipping the accessory back on with ease. “I found it somewhere a while back. It’s been making me see all kinds of crazy stuff—“ She cut off her own remark as soon as she noticed Agonia.

Agonia–who by this point had undone his restraints–carefully neared Vanessa. He said nothing, but it was clear that the girl was paying close attention. Even after he untangled Vanessa’s scarf, his attention was fixed on the newcomer.

The girl slowly bobbed her head, then removed her mask. “Sorry, Mr. Bellringer,” she said softly. “I’ll try to be more careful.”

Agonia smiled warmly, then loosed Vanessa from the contraption. Vanessa took a step forward, but the girl made it to them first. “What in the world did he say, Cassie?” Vanessa asked, getting down to the youth’s eye level.

“He told me that I shouldn’t be wearing your mask so much,” Cassie explained, handing it to Vanessa. “Something about ‘Judge Glitch’ using it to track me.”

Vanessa looked back at Agonia. Agonia gave a look of approval.

“He’s not wrong,” Vanessa added with an eye roll. “Back in the day, Glitch could use my mask as a way to track my... ‘progress”. Now that I’ve reprogrammed it, though, the worst that could happen is your head getting scrambled for the next few days.”

Agonia lowered an ear. Huh. He didn’t know about that.

“You should use it less, though,” Vanessa resumed, keeping her focus on Cassie. “Glitch has every opportunity to make sure your face gets glued to that thing. Literally.”

“Does... he have glitter glue?” a soft voice chimed in, alarming everyone else. Moon woke up, but his colors were now a strange mix between his two forms.

Agonia shook his head to the combined jester. He then mimed one potential way that malfunction could happen: A false signal to the mask’s system.

“Ohh,” ‘Moon’ said knowingly. “So he wouldn’t need glitter glue. It was just a figure of speech. Thank you, kind sir!”

Agonia grinned in satisfaction. He gave a low bow.

“Moon—Sun?—Whatever program you’re running,” Vanessa sputtered out, now returning to a more authoritative stance. “We need to leave and get Cassie out of here fast. Do you have any idea where we can exit without being noticed?”

The jester’s head whirred this way and that. “Maybe you can leave through the back door,” he suggested, mildly swinging an arm towards large tapestry nearby. “But I wouldn’t try it unless you know it’s safe.”

”Do you think you can scout the area while we get more acquainted?”

“Sure!” the jester exclaimed weakly, lightly bouncing from foot to foot. “It’d be my pleasure to help, Officer Vanessa! And you too, little girl and tall bunny!”

Vanessa refrained from correcting the now-casual robot and stepped aside. All three watched as their new scout hopped his way to the tapestry and slipped out. “Now that we’ve got ‘Eclipse’ out of the way,” Vanessa continued, turning to her new companions, “let’s just sit down and talk. We all need a break after that experience.”

[lightning-writes]

good heart (faulty machine of a man) - 13/30

fic summary: bucky meets someone at therapy

chapter summary: rue fucked up (alternatively, rue's relationship history)

word count: 1667

tags: hurt/comfort, post endgame, pre tfatws, slow burn, canon divergent, canon compliant, au

warnings: cheating, messy break-up

a/n: part 2 of the same day; sad!rue / comforting!bucky

AO3 MASTERLIST X

November 11 (Part 2)

“James, wait.” But he’s already on his feet. Raynor follows him. “James, we have twenty minutes left of the session.”

The news broke that Sam has decided to give up the shield, surrendering it to the State.

(The news broke Bucky that Sam would make this decision so flippantly. Now, he wants to break things too.)

“James, let’s process–”

“No.”

“James, don’t do this, don’t hurt him.”

Bucky whips around. He knows his eyes are wild and intense.

(It’s better than the hurt burning in his chest. He was just with Sam - why didn’t he say anything?)

“Is that where you think I’m going?”

“I–”

He strides out of the office, the door flying open, slamming against the wall. He hears her apologies, to him, to the people rushing out of their offices, but he doesn’t care. He’s out of there. He doesn’t even register Rue’s absence at the desk or that he’s exiting through the back of the building. He let his brain autopilot him out of there as quickly as possible.

On the platform outside, Rue is smoking a cigarette, toying with the crystal pendant on her necklace. He sees her startle and cower.

(She hadn’t answered his coffee text, so he hadn’t gone to the shop. She hadn’t met his eyes when he greeted her, so he didn’t push small talk. She’d disappeared down the hall before Raynor had called him.)

He also sees her face flooded with tears, eyes grim and red.

“Fuck,” she whispers, turning to wipe her face with her sleeve.

“Rue, what happened?” he demands. He knows his harsh tone is residual from the shield news. He can’t stop it. “Are you okay?”

“Everything’s fine, Bucky - sorry to worry you.” Like she’s said it a hundred times, she says, “Have a good night - text me when you get home.”

(Between her wobbly smile and shaky hands bringing her cigarette to her lips, Bucky’s thoughts slow to focus on her.)

“Did you drive here?”

“No, I took the subway. Listen, Bucky,” she tries to laugh it off, “I’m–”

“I took the subway too, let’s go.” He doesn’t touch her, but his hand hovering over the small of her back seems to impel her to start walking.

When they exit the alley, she stops to finish her cigarette before snuffing it out. They stand silently, him studying her intently and her avoiding eye contact. He’d find it funny if he didn’t have so many other feelings buzzing around in him.

She follows Bucky’s long strides down the street without speaking. He’s aware he’s nearly marching up the block - his hair is whipped back from his face by the force of his walk. He’s honestly craving a run or tearing into one of the punching bags at Fogwell’s, but he stifles that for now.

They are silent for three blocks. He sneaks a glance at her - but she’s keeping in step with him. He’s impressed, especially when he notes her boots don’t exactly look comfortable for a vigorous walk. The chill of the November night is both sobering and energizing. The city is, of course, in full swing, but the quiet between them seems louder.

At the last crosswalk, before the subway entrance, he feels her eyes on him. He knows her whole body is turned to him despite the rapid countdown of the walk sign and the crowd waiting to cross.

“I cheated on Dean with my ex.” Bucky looks at her as people herd past them to cross the road. Again, her face is red and wet. “And he found out yesterday.”

His brain is calculating the right thing to do and the right thing to say, but he’s distracted by how devastated she looks. He knows he's staring. Her ruddy nose, her swollen lips, the tears that have collected on her lashes, the black makeup pooled in the lines underneath her eyes. The small hairs loose from her two braids sticking to her full cheeks. She doesn’t look pretty at all in this moment, the way her mouth is down turned and the streaks in her makeup, but he’s still mesmerized by her.

(He’s suddenly aware that, under different circumstances, he could have kissed her.)

He takes her hand and crosses the street - the wrong way. He’s still striding, he finds, but this time with a different purpose.

“Bucky, wher–”

He finds a park and a bench. He sits her down and gets a water bottle from a nearby vendor. He opens it for her and offers it. His anger toward Sam is a slow burn in the recesses of his mind. They look at each other for a long time.

“What happened?”

Rue tells Bucky about Maeve. How they dated exclusively for two years. She jokes and says they had the full lesbain experience - they met, they dated, and they moved in with each other within the first month. She tells him that Maeve was the first long term relationship she’d had with a woman, and that meant something. She tells him that Maeve was one of the people that got ‘dusted’, and it tore Rue’s life apart.

“I met Dean two years ago,” she says. “He really saved my life.”

She tells Bucky that she’d been destroying her life with substances and crime and meaningless sex, and she had burned nearly all of her relationships with good people. She tells him that she and Dean had become quick and close friends, blurring the lines sometimes, but neither of them wanted a serious relationship. She calls it an ‘accidental open relationship’.

She explains that, when everyone returned in the beginning of the year - “thank you, Avengers,” she says with a little salute - she was so excited to have Maeve back, and that Dean understood. But Maeve slowly felt like she ‘needed to live her life’ and the Blip was a ‘wake up call’.

“So, she left,” Rue says through fresh tears. Her hands wring the empty water bottle. “And I had to beg Vick to move in because god, I was such a bitch to her at the beginning of the Blip, and I reached out to Dean in the summer.” She suddenly looks at Bucky with a funny look. “I’m so sorry, I’m dumping all of this on you,” she blurts, “this is so inappropriate–”

“Hey.” His tone makes her eyes snap to his. He gives her a meaningful look, to stop her spiral. “I’m programmed to listen,” he jokes. Her mouth curves in a smile, but her eyes fill with more tears.

It takes her a minute to continue, to tell him that she and Dean started becoming more serious, seeing each other more often and other people less.

“Maeve reached out to me before I went to see my brother.” Her next words come out wobbly. “She said she just wanted to talk, to find closure, but we…” He puts the pieces together. She chokes on a sob. “Bucky, I had to try, I loved her so much.”

(He places a hand on her back. He’s not sure what else to do. It seems to stabilize her.)

“Dean found out yesterday,” her voice hitches, “he saw my messages. He said it’s over. And I mean, rightfully so, I’m a disgusting monster for cheating on him, even if we weren’t completely and totally exclusive or labeled or whatever. But I thought, maybe, this is the break I needed, to take back Maeve, and officially rebuild our lives together.” She tucks her stray hairs behind her ears, he notices this habit of hers. “But she hasn’t responded to any of my texts or calls. I just called her again, after work, and she…”

(Rue lapses into another body shaking cry. Bucky doesn’t know whether she needs space or for him to hold her. He’s out of practice on how to console someone.)

“Her number is out of service, and I guess she blocked me on her socials,” he doesn’t know what this means, “and I have no way of contacting her or…” Her knuckles turn white. “I threw away a relationship with Dean, again, just for her to leave me again.”

“I’m sorry.” It barely sums up how he feels, but he doesn’t know what else to say. “You don’t deserve this.”

“Maybe I do.”

“You don’t,” he says matter of factly. “I’ve been around for a century. I know who deserves what.”

“God, you’re old,” she laughs weakly. She doesn’t mean it as an insult, so he doesn’t take it as one. “I bet, in the grand scheme of things, this must seem so trivial to you.”

“Not stupid…” He pauses, suppressing the feelings that accompany his attempts of vulnerability. “Doing what I did, in the past… It was easy. This stuff, stuff with feelings and relationships… that’s the harder part of life, I think…”

The park is quieter than when they first sat down. The city doesn’t sleep, but it feels sleepy right now. He watches Rue fiddle with the hem of her coat, and he deliberates his next words.

“I think the feelings and the relationships are what makes life worth living.” She scoffs, and he feels like he’s missed the mark. “I think it’s hard because it matters.”

She lifts her gaze to his. Her dark eyes seem so deep and hollow. She finally says, “I just want to go home.”

////

Despite her protests, Bucky gets on her train with her. He tells her he’s the former Winter Soldier and he’ll be fine getting back to Brooklyn. The part he doesn’t say is he knows he won’t get much sleep after this, so he’s going to Fogwell’s.

(He needs to punch something. On her behalf.)

For a few minutes, before her stop, Rue puts her head on his shoulder. He moves in closer to accommodate her. She folds her hand around his. She doesn’t say anything or lace their fingers. He thinks she’s grounding herself in his presence. (I’m here, he thinks. I’m here.)

[murumokirby360]

My NVMe Needs - Part 6 (Final): Samsung Magician & HWiNFO Softwares [Apr 25th, 2023]

Hello, April! This is it! Here's final part (Part 6) of my of “My NVMe Needs“ (this time, without my paper dolls 😅). 😊

And in this part, I'm installing two monitoring stats & other memory tool purposes, the Samsung Magician & the HWiNFO. 🙂🖥️⚙️🔢

If you haven't seen my two previous post(s) & other ones (that we're related), then I'll provide some links down below. ↓

• Part 1: Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus NVMe M.2 SSD (1TB) Review [Apr 7th, 2023]

• Part 2: Thermalright M.2 2280 Pro Review [Apr 11th, 2023]

• Part 3: Installation and trial & error [Recorded on Apr 21st, 2023] (published: Apr 22nd, 2023)

• Part 4: Another Trial & Error [Apr 21st, 2023] (published: Apr 22nd, 2023

• *Part 5: Timing comparison - HDD vs SSD NVMe M.2 Drive [Apr 25th, 2023]*

So, without further ado, let’s get started:

My Recorded & Edited Video (using Filmora 9): (pls watch) ↑ 🎦✏️🖥️

• First off is the "Samsung Magician", a monitoring software tool used for legitimate Samsung memory products exclusively (e.g. QVOs, EVOs, PROs, 870, 970, 980, 990). It'll give information about your recent memory drive stats, test some benchmarks, diagnose your drives, and even link "Data Migration" (software) to form one working software, and so much more to do. One con, I would say is my NVMe didn't recognize the authentication after re-install & restart my PC to unlock the real performance stats. Considering, that my purchased NVMe stick is 100% genuine, I just don't understand what's the situation though. Maybe I'll wait for the future update, soon? Who knows?

BTW: If you want more about it, then please → [CLICK ME!].

• However, there's another software that I can take a deeper look at my NVMe's stats, so let's bring out the "HWiNFO". Unlike "Samsung Magician", this software can monitor pretty much any internal component not just memory-based drives but also Graphics Card, CPU Chip, Motherboard, etc. And also, not just Samsung, but also other brands can recognize, too. Although, it can't do much as the "Samsung Magician", the "HWiNFO" will sense the voltage, rating speed, health, and even temperature of the computer's internal component(s). For instance, my 970 EVO Plus has a decent accuracy of 50°C compared to 51°C from the "Samsung Magician", and so far, no faulty & failure signs of SSD warning. Everyday, I open this monitoring software to check my computer stats just in case someone makes hot during either opening window task(s) or playing PC games. If somethings wrong, then I have to something about it, but as of now, everything seems to be fine.

Overall & Final remarks:

• So far, this is the most ambitious & most satisfying thing I've ever done this year. I've been stuck on physical HD for years. Since 2006, we're always provided physical hard drives as our main source of computer OS & storage purposes. In fact, in my elementary days, I had never seen or heard about "Solid State Drives", I mean nobody uses SSD only rich people can afford the premium SSDs. Nowadays, the SSDs & NVMe we're spread across the globe, and they became the standard of all existing computers. Best of all, random brands are now making cheap SSDs & NVMEs compared to the well-known competitive brands such as Samsung, Adata, Corsair, Western Digital, Sandisk, and more. But, should you buy cheap alternatives or well-known trusted brands? You decide. And let's not forget about the capacity size, they're arranged from less than 64GB of SSDs/NVMEs for a fair cheaper price to the overly expensive price of 1TB to a massive 8TB of SSDs/NVMEs. So, choose wisely if you're planning to get yourself a perfect SSD/NVMe brand(s). And if you're planning to get a NVMe M.2 Drive be sure to purcahse a separate heat sink or a built-in counterpart.

• But, as for me, I purchased Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus & the Thermalright M.2 2280 Pro Heat Sink separately, and combine these two into one custom. Overall, so far, I am certified as "Worth it" because I dream to get my hands on a high-performance SSD than a slower physical hard drive. And with two monitoring & diagnostic software(s) on my computer, I could always check the stats of my NVMe stick, alongside other functional PC internal components (motherboard, graphics card, etc.). I hope my NVMe stick never dies from my progress.

Well, that's the end of my topic!

If you haven’t seen my previous topic, then I’ll provide some links down below. ↓😉

• Goodbye my old Anker Powerport 2 - Full [Mar 16th, 2023]

Tagged: @lordromulus90, @bryan360, @carmenramcat, @leapant, @rafacaz4lisam2k4, @paektu, @alexander1301

[collisionbuddy]

Top Signs Your Car Has an Electrical Problem & What to Do

Your car’s electrical system powers everything from the engine to the lights, radio, and windows. When something goes wrong, it can leave you stranded or cause safety issues. Here are the most common signs of auto electrical problems and how to fix them!

1️⃣ Slow or No Start 🚦

If your car struggles to start or doesn’t turn over at all, you may have: 🔹 A weak or dead battery 🔹 A failing starter motor 🔹 A bad alternator

💡 Solution: Test the battery and alternator or get a professional auto electrical repair to diagnose the issue.

2️⃣ Flickering or Dim Headlights 💡

Dimming or flickering headlights often mean: 🔹 A weak battery 🔹 A failing alternator 🔹 Loose or corroded wiring

💡 Solution: Check your battery voltage and get your electrical system inspected.

3️⃣ Electrical Accessories Malfunction ⚠️

If your power windows, radio, dashboard lights, or wipers aren’t working, it could be: 🔹 A blown fuse 🔹 A bad relay switch 🔹 A wiring short or loose connection

💡 Solution: Replace the fuse or visit an auto electrical repair shop for further troubleshooting.

4️⃣ Burning Smell from Dashboard or Engine 🔥

If you notice a burning plastic or electrical smell, turn off your car immediately! 🔹 It could be overheated wires, a short circuit, or a failing alternator.

💡 Solution: Get a professional inspection ASAP to prevent potential fires or damage.

5️⃣ Battery Draining Fast 🔋

If your battery keeps dying, it could be: 🔹 A parasitic drain (something is pulling power when the car is off) 🔹 An old or faulty battery 🔹 A failing alternator that isn’t charging properly

💡 Solution: Get a battery and alternator test to determine the cause.

🔧 Need Auto Electrical Repair in Woodland Hills?

For expert auto electrical repair, alternator replacement, and diagnostics, visit:

📍 Collision Buddy 📍 5339 Comercio Way, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, United States 📞 818-600-6526

🚗 Reliable Electrical Repair | Battery & Alternator Checks | Full Auto Care

💡 Don’t ignore electrical problems—fix them before they turn into major repairs!

📌 Save this post & share with someone who needs it!

[fastlaneeuropean]

Troubleshooting an Audi That Cranks but Won’t Start Common Causes and Solutions

Hey Audi enthusiasts! Despite being brilliantly engineered, sometimes your Audi might encounter strange issues like the engine cranks without ignition, even after multiple trials of turning the key or pressing the ignition switch. It might appear disastrous but can be easily tackled if you understand the common culprits behind this nuisance and the effective methods to resolve it. So, in this comprehensive guide, you can get extensive data about the factors that allow the engine to crank without getting started and what can you do to get everything back on track.  

Problematic fuel system

The engine needs fuel to operate. If it doesn’t get sufficient fuel, it might crank without starting.

This can be caused by a poor fuel pump, a blocked fuel filter, or a damaged fuel injector. Moreover, no or low fuel in the tank can also trigger this inconvenience.

First of all, cross-check the gas gauge. If there is enough gas but still your car is not starting, and you don’t hear a soft whirring sound while turning on the ignition, the faulty pump might be responsible. If the filter is clogged by dirt and debris or the injector is malfunctioning, you must visit the nearest Audi service center and seek professional assistance to diagnose and replace the defective fuel system parts.  

Ignition system issues

The ignition system is responsible for providing the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture, and without that spark, the engine won’t fire up.

Some usual causes include faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, a malfunctioning ignition switch, or crankshaft position sensor failure.

Inspect the spark plugs and replace the dirty or faulty ones. You need to test the ignition coils since a single damaged coil might impact the ignition process. When the crankshaft position sensor malfunctions, the engine won’t get the signal to start. So, performing a diagnostic scan and confirming the sensor failure is required before replacing it.

Weak battery

A drained battery can crank the engine but can't turn it on due to a lack of enough charge.

Usually, with a faulty alternator, loose or corroded battery terminals, or insufficient battery charge, your car struggles to run and, in the worst case, doesn’t get ignited at all.

Use a multimeter to test the battery voltage. If it's below 12.4 volts, you need to recharge or replace the old battery. Clean the corroded battery terminals and tighten them with the correct torque if loose. If the alternator is dysfunctional and not charging the battery, replacing it with a new one is the only trick to fix this.

Starter motor troubles

When a starter motor gets damaged, it might crank the engine weakly or intermittently, leaving you unable to start your car.

You may notice the engine crank very slowly or hear a single-click sound while trying to turn on your vehicle.

Since the starter motor is a critical vehicle component, dealing with it on your own can be hazardous for both yourself and your car. So, you must consult with a skilled mechanicto repair or replace the defective one for optimal ignition.

Faulty timing belt or chain

The engine timing has to be precisely adjusted for your car to start. Thus, when the timing belt or chain is misaligned, it prevents the engine from firing.

Observing the engine crank faster than before, as well as producing loud and abnormal noises while cranking, are common warning signs of a bad timing chain or belt.

You should stop attempting engine cranking if you suspect a timing issue since it might cause significant harm to the engine.

The final words

Even after trying these obvious fixes, if your Audi’s engine keeps cranking without getting started, it's time to call in the experts due to their skills and equipment to detect complex faults. Well, it’s frustrating when your Audi won’t start, whereas uncovering the issue is simple. So, a little effort in troubleshooting can help you determine if it’s within your ability or time to get a professional involved. After all, your Audi deserves the best care to perform at its peak and deliver you an excellent road time experience down the road.

[aestruckrepair]

Discover How Routine Maintenance Saves Thousands for Willard, MO Truck Owners

Maintaining a truck’s performance isn’t just about avoiding costly breakdowns. Routine maintenance helps Willard, MO truck owners extend vehicle lifespan, improve efficiency, and save thousands in repair costs. Ignoring small issues can lead to expensive problems that could have been prevented with simple care.

Why Routine Maintenance Matters

Frequent use puts immense strain on trucks. Over time, wear and tear impact critical systems like the engine, brakes, and transmission. Truck Repair costs climb quickly if you wait for a major failure. By following a consistent maintenance schedule, small fixes can prevent larger breakdowns.

1. Reduced Repair Costs

Routine upkeep catches issues early, before they escalate. Fixing a small coolant leak, for example, costs far less than replacing an overheated engine. Scheduling regular checks with a reliable Truck Repair near me minimizes surprises.

2. Improved Fuel Efficiency

Dirty filters, misaligned wheels, or under-inflated tires waste fuel. Regular maintenance keeps your truck in top shape, improving fuel economy. Over time, this saves hundreds of dollars in fuel expenses.

3. Increased Vehicle Lifespan

A truck is a major investment. Routine care like oil changes and brake inspections ensures your vehicle serves you longer. Avoiding neglect reduces the likelihood of needing a complete overhaul.

4. Enhanced Safety

Failing brakes or a worn-out transmission creates unsafe conditions. Regular checks at a Truck Repair Shop Near Me ensure your truck is roadworthy, reducing the risk of accidents.

5. Higher Resale Value

Maintained trucks fetch better resale prices. Buyers trust vehicles with documented upkeep. Protecting your truck’s value now pays off when it’s time to sell.

The Key Elements of Routine Maintenance

Every truck owner should know which areas require consistent attention. A trustworthy Mobile Truck Repair service can help with the following essentials:

Oil and Filter Changes

Dirty oil wears down the engine. Replacing oil regularly ensures smooth operation and prevents damage.

Brake System Inspections

Neglecting brakes compromises safety. Regular checks catch worn-out pads or fluid issues before they fail.

Tire Maintenance

Uneven tire wear signals alignment issues or improper inflation. Regular rotation keeps tires in good condition.

Cooling System Checks

Prevent overheating by maintaining the radiator and replacing worn hoses or faulty thermostats.

Electrical System Care

Check the battery, alternator, and wiring. A reliable Truck Repair Near Me service can handle diagnostics on-site.

Why Choose AES Mobile Truck Repair?

For Willard, MO truck owners, AES Mobile Truck Repair stands out as the go-to solution for routine and emergency needs. Here’s why:

1. Expertise Across Models

We handle all major brands, including Freightliner, Kenworth, and Isuzu. No matter your truck, we’ve got you covered.

2. Advanced Diagnostics

Our cutting-edge equipment ensures we identify issues quickly and accurately.

3. 24/7 Service

Breakdowns don’t wait for business hours. We’re available around the clock for emergency repairs.

4. Cost-Effective Solutions

From minor fixes to comprehensive overhauls, we focus on providing value without hidden fees.

5. Convenient Mobile Service

Skip the hassle of a tow. Our Mobile Truck Repair team comes directly to you.

6. Friendly and Skilled Technicians

Our professionals prioritize customer satisfaction, ensuring you receive top-quality service every time.

FAQs About Truck Maintenance Near Willard, MO

1. How often should I schedule routine maintenance?

It depends on your truck’s usage. Generally, every 10,000 miles is ideal. AES Mobile Truck Repair can create a custom schedule.

2. Do mobile services handle diesel engine maintenance?

Yes. We offer Diesel Engine Repair and Maintenance on-site to save time and reduce downtime.

3. What signs indicate my truck needs immediate attention?

Loud noises, poor braking, or overheating require immediate care. Contact a Truck Repair Shop Near Me to address these problems.

4. Can routine maintenance improve fuel economy?

Absolutely. Proper tire inflation, clean air filters, and regular tune-ups optimize fuel consumption.

5. Is AES Mobile Truck Repair available for emergency services?

Yes. We provide 24/7 assistance to ensure you’re never stranded during critical situations.

6. What brands do you service?

We specialize in Isuzu, Freightliner, Kenworth, and other major truck brands.

Contact AES Mobile Truck Repair for Your Maintenance Needs

Routine maintenance is the key to avoiding expensive repairs and extending the life of your truck. At AES Mobile Truck Repair, we make it easy for Willard, MO drivers to keep their vehicles in excellent condition.

AES Mobile Truck Repair

Address: 2190 N Westgate Ave, Springfield, MO 65802, United States

Phone: +1 (417) 855-9066

Whether it’s Mobile Truck Repair, routine maintenance, or emergency services, we’re here to help. Contact us today for reliable, professional care tailored to your truck’s needs.

[charliejoyce921]

Fixing Ford Explorer Charging System Alerts

The Ford Explorer is a popular midsize SUV, known for its powerful performance and versatile features. However, one common issue that some drivers face is the appearance of a "Charging System Alert" warning. This alert indicates that there is a problem with the vehicle's charging system, typically related to the alternator or battery. Understanding the causes and how to address these issues is crucial to preventing further damage and ensuring the smooth operation of your vehicle.

Common Causes of Charging System Alerts

Faulty Alternator: The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery while the engine is running. If it begins to fail, the battery will not charge properly, leading to a "Charging System Alert." Symptoms of a faulty alternator include dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car, or an overall drained battery.

Weak or Dead Battery: A battery that is old or worn out may struggle to hold a charge, which could trigger a warning. Batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years, depending on the climate and how often the vehicle is used.

Corroded or Loose Battery Connections: If the battery terminals are loose or corroded, the charging system might not function correctly. This can result in low voltage reaching the battery and cause the alert to appear.

Damaged Wires or Fuses: Sometimes, damaged wiring or blown fuses can prevent the charging system from operating properly. These issues often require more detailed diagnostics to resolve.

Steps to Fix the Charging System Alert

Check the Battery: Begin by inspecting the battery's condition. Look for visible corrosion on the terminals and clean them if necessary. Ensure that the battery is properly secured and that connections are tight.

Test the Alternator: Use a multimeter to check the voltage output of the alternator. It should read between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when the engine is running. If the reading is outside this range, the alternator may need to be replaced.

Examine the Wiring: Inspect the wiring between the battery and alternator for any visible damage, such as fraying or corrosion. Replace any damaged cables to restore proper functionality.

Replace the Battery or Alternator: If the alternator is faulty or the battery is too weak, replacing them may be necessary. It's recommended to visit a mechanic for professional installation to avoid complications.

Check the Fuses: Ensure that all fuses related to the charging system are in working order. A blown fuse can disrupt the charging process and trigger a warning.

Conclusion

The "Charging System Alert" in a Ford Explorer can be a sign of several different issues, from a failing alternator to a weak battery or corroded connections. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly. Regular maintenance, such as checking the battery and alternator, can help identify potential problems early and keep your Explorer running without interruptions.

FAQs

1. What happens if I ignore the Charging System Alert in my Ford Explorer?

Ignoring this warning can lead to the battery not being charged properly, which may eventually cause your vehicle to stall or fail to start. If the issue is left unresolved, it could damage other electrical components or leave you stranded.

2. How can I tell if my alternator is failing in my Ford Explorer?

Signs of a failing alternator include dimming headlights, electrical issues such as malfunctioning power windows, or the battery warning light appearing on the dashboard. You may also experience difficulty starting your car.

3. How often should I replace my Ford Explorer's battery?

On average, a car battery lasts about 3-5 years. However, the lifespan can vary based on weather conditions, driving habits, and the quality of the battery. Regularly checking the battery's charge level can help determine when it's time for a replacement.

[bertinisgermanmotors]

Why Won’t My Mercedes Start Could the Starter Relay Be the Problem

Isn’t it pretty annoying when you turn the key or push the start button to ignite your luxury Mercedes and it doesn't start? Well, it might feel like the end of the world, especially while in a hurry. Many reasons cause such a nuisance and one such component is the stater relay. When it fails, it can genuinely prevent your Mercedes from starting. Don’t panic! This comprehensive guide is all about the warning signs that indicate a malfunctioning starter relay and the potential causes behind it so that you can address the issue quickly to save your vehicle from further damage.  

So, what exactly is Your Mercedes starter relay?

Before proceeding further let's understand the basic principle of the starter relay. Usually, the starter relay connects your car’s battery to the starter motor. So, when you turn the key or press the start button, it transmits the electrical signal from the battery to the starter motor. Next, the starter motor cranks the engine to run your vehicle. Now just think, even being a small component what a massive role it plays. Without it, the engine can never be ignited despite the battery being full of power and other engine components working optimally.  

How to know whether your Mercedes starter relay is malfunctioning?

No noise when you start the engine: When you rotate the key to start the engine and you hear no sounds at all, it indicates the starter relay might be the culprit. Because a functional starter relay produces a clicking noise while igniting the engine.

Just one click and nothing else: This is one of the starting signs of the starter relay failure. In this case, you can hear a single-clicking sound after turning the key, but the engine won’t crank. This happens when the relay isn’t supplying sufficient power to the starter motor.

Burning odor: You may smell a burning aroma near the starter relay when it comes across excessive heat. This usually occurs due to short circuits or faulty internal parts.

Car starts occasionally: If you observe inconsistency while igniting, like one day your vehicle starts, but the next day it doesn’t, then the starter relay might be on its last leg. This commonly indicates electrical problems related to the starter relay.

What factors affect your Mercedes starter relay?

One of the most common causes behind a worn-out starter relay is aging. Like every vehicle parts, the internal parts of the relay get damaged eventually due to frequent usage.

Next, coming in contact with the outside moisture, dirt, and debris can rupture the starter relay, restricting the optimal electrical flow.

When the battery or alternator encounters voltage spikes, the starter relay’s circuits or internal elements get affected severely.

If the engine produces excessive heat and the area inside the hood stays overheated, then the starter relay may wear out due to extremely hot surroundings. 

What if your Mercedes starter relay isn’t the culprit?

A blown fuse in the ignition circuit might sound like a minor defect but can restrict your Mercedes from getting started.

Sometimes, the culprit can be the malfunctioning ignition button, which could prevent the starter relay from receiving a signal, ultimately creating trouble in the ignition.

If there is something wrong with the starter motor, then doesn’t matter how much the starter relay powers the motor, the engine won’t start at all.

A weak or dead battery can also stop the engine from cranking, even if the starter motor is potentially functional.

When the ignition system's wires and connectors deteriorate or loosen, they can’t carry the charge from one part to the other. So, the engine stops functioning, for not getting enough charge to run.

Conclusion

When your Mercedes refuses to start, it can totally disrupt your day and travel plans. So, as you have understood, there can be several reasons behind your non-starting Mercedes, and one of the common causes among them is starter motor failure. By referencing the above guide, you can easily differentiate whether it is the started motor or something else. After detecting the exact issue, you must visit the nearest Mercedes service center and seek professional assistance to replace the poor starter motor to make your Mercedes run at its peak.