#Defecation Station

[thelongestway]

Well, there had to be a moment somewhere in a story that turned out to be fucking novel-length where I had to go back and redo an entire chapter because it wasn't working. (Twice, actually. I tried my initial idea, that didn't work, tried to change tacks completely to get around the problem (you saw that attempt); it didn't work either, so I had to go back to my original try and put more work into it to make it work. Yeah. It was as bad as it sounds.)

Still no guarantee that this has worked, but I'll see when I try to continue later today. (Not sure if in the same chapter or in a different one).

And of course, this was a chapter that I thought I had all figured out and it would be really fucking easy before I actually tried it. Such is the writing life!

Chapter 23: Observation

I walked back out onto the station, tapping into Aspen's feed to let them know I was embarking. They returned the handshake and let me link in, but otherwise ignored me, focusing entirely on their job. I could see their little tendrils, darting there and back, fixing some sort of process or checking up on a person, but there weren't many around. Tendrils, I mean, not people. Because the celebration was still going strong, and there were plenty of humans in Aspen's halls, some working, some relaxed. (My humans were back on their respective ships, at least. It was getting late in the station day-night cycle.)

I stopped at the exit to the docks. Normally, this was where I sent Aspen some kind of itinerary, but this time I didn't have one. Would they even let me on board if I didn't tell them exactly where I was planning to go and why? I wouldn't if I were them.

I'm not you, their voice said into my ear. You are free to come aboard.

Threat assessment spiked 12,5 percent as I frantically checked my channels. But no. We weren't connected beyond the fucking handshake. There was no way they could have--.

Or maybe they could. Whatever Dandelion said, they were half-brain-eating-zombie-AI.

What the fuck? Are you reading my fucking thoughts?

They laughed.

I don't need to read your thoughts to know what you're thinking. You're very loud.

What the fuck was that supposed to mean?

Fuck you.

For someone who can't even stand to look at a naked body, you do seem to offer that a lot. But no. You're not my type.

That fucking station.

Aspen continued: It's utterly fascinating to watch how your nudity taboo plays out in the expletives you use. There are so many diverse systems of profanity, but you nearly always choose words connected to bodily functions--specifically, reproduction and defecation, two messy and vulnerable things humans like to kept private.

That's just how humans use expletives. Shut up.

Bullshit, they said, and even though I couldn't see any tendrils hanging on me, I could hear that fucking knife of a grin. By which I mean, did you forget that you gave Iceblink your entire media archive? The corpus you have available to you is so much broader than what you're actually using, even if it did lose 'bullshit' somewhere along the way. You're welcome for the addition to your collection, by the way. Gives you an alternative for when you want to accuse someone of lying.

My organic parts crawled.

Are you going to keep this up the entire time I'm on the station?

That depends. Are you going to keep telling me I'm not doing my job?

I wasn't planning on talking to you at all, I said.

Good, they replied venomously. Do that, and I won't talk to you, either.

The dock exit slid open, even though I'd stopped half a meter away from the sensors.

That fu--. That a--. That--.

Okay. Whatever sympathy I had was gone. I officially hated that sunbleached, fauna-riddled forest of a miserable station. (And I hated that I heard them chuckle when I thought that. I really wasn't convinced they weren't reading my mind at this point.)

But I marched inside, anyway. Because there was no way that--HubSystem could pressure me into fucking hiding on board ART just by watching me. I could take being watched. I was better at being watched than Aspen could fucking imagine.

Aside from the completely private, feed-blind areas such as personal quarters, Aspen probably had the fewest camera and microphones in their recreational areas, so I went up to their topside gardens. I found a spot as far away from any camera or speaker placement that I could see, sat down on the grass and watched.

Nothing out of the ordinary. Just humans and genetically augmented humans mingling, most of them unfamiliar. (The one exception was Haze, who was sitting in a circle on the ground with seven other genetically augmented humans. They waved at me, and I circled a drone around them before moving it away. Haze laughed, and grabbed the smallest human in the circle by hand, pointing at my drone and talking to them excitedly.)

This wasn't helping, so I tapped Thiago's feed.

What exactly am I looking for?

Nothing specific right now, he answered readily. The point is to see what patterns emerge from what you see around you. Just record anything that catches your attention. Try not to make it a log or video dump, if you can--edit it as you go, be concrete about what you found interesting, exactly.

Okay, so Haze. Fine. I knew Haze, at least, so I had a lot of data for comparison.

Except the data was fucking useless, because Haze behaved almost exactly the same on the station as they did on board Dandelion. They weren't any more tense, or weirded out by Aspen's creepy analytics

(Wait, did Haze know the analytics were even there? They were an engineer, so they had to. But in any case, they didn't seem bothered by the idea.)

They did seem happy, but Haze was usually pretty cheerful. The rest of the augmented humans were kind of the same, actually. Their group reminded me of Preservation humans when they were engaged in recreational activities, but with a different adult-to-child ratio than Preservation groups normally had. (Four out of eight were full adults, two were juveniles, and two were children. It was weirdly symmetrical. And the age gap between the adults and the juveniles looked exactly the same as between the juveniles and the children, which didn't usually happen.)

Were they some kind of weird family unit? I wished I had a proper database to match them against, and to get their actual ages.

You're looking at a set, Aspen said. That's a Hylaran type of family unit. The ideal size is eight, but the uptake of new members is normally in batches of two, not six as it used to be historically.

Threat assessment spiked again. I hadn't actually sent that as a HubSystem query, had I?

I hadn't. They were in my fucking head again.

Why are the fuck are you talking to me right now?

Because watching you trying to figure out familial structures is just painful. And, as I said, you're incredibly loud by default, much louder than any human. I have to make an active effort to filter out you reaching for me.

Bullshit! I didn't send you any queries!

Who said anything about queries, SecUnit? I said you reached for me. Directed your attention at me. It wasn't difficult to figure out what you were wondering about.

That took me an entire two seconds to process.

Wait--you could do that this whole time?

If you mean, register your attention being directed at me--yes. I just did my best to ignore it when it wasn't a conscious request. But I am done being courteous to you while you try to make me into a rootrotting surveillance platform. If you want me not to overhear you, you're going to have to actually try and be quiet.

Crap. Crap, crap, crap.

Back to your standard profanity, I see. I don't actually know which word you're repeating, but most single-syllable expletives that fit the circumstances we find ourselves in are bodily-function related.

ART, I said on our private channel. (Was it private? I had no fucking idea anymore.) Are they fucking hacking me?

(I didn't think they were. But maybe they were just better at hiding. They couldn't be better than ART, though, ART chewed through a quarter of their fucking firewall in seconds.)

They're not, ART said, tense and angry. According to my analysis, this is just what they're getting from background data.

The fucking number of syllables in the swear words I'm thinking?

That's probably just statistics. You do have a limited profanity corpus.

Fuck you, ART, I said with the satisfaction of knowing it would not fucking twist this into being a sex thing.

If you want to continue with your survey, then I will keep watch, ART said. And the moment Aspen tries to hack you, I will make sure they have something else to worry about.

My threat assessment for that was distinctly low. (Even though I was glad to have ART with me anyway.) But Aspen didn't even hack the hostiles, so they weren't likely to really hack me just because I pissed them off. I was probably safe.

Just being observed. And commented on.

I could deal with that.

[kuebikome]

y are you in a gas station bathroom are you pooping

No i do not defecate

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from National Geographic:

One unusual team joining National Geographic’s two-year exploration of the Amazon River Basin: scientist Ruthmery Pillco Huarcaya and her canine tracking companion. The two first set eyes on each other at an animal shelter in Cusco, a historic city perched in the Peruvian Andes. Something about this mutt reminded Pillco of herself—whippet-thin, tough, persistent. A family had already expressed interest in the dog, but Pillco won her case. With an important new job, the shelter’s dog would help the cause of Amazonian conservation in Peru.

“She’s going to be a hero,” Pillco promised. She took the dog home to her apartment, where she began teaching Ukuku—the name she chose—how to sniff out bear scat on mountain trails. Ukuku is a word for “bear” in Quechua, the Indigenous language of Pillco’s childhood. She grew up a few hours’ drive from Cusco, in a village where storytelling gives special power to the black Andean bear, the animal Pillco now studies as a field biologist for the Peruvian nonprofit Conservación Amazónica ACCA and as part of the National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Amazon Expedition.

The research project, involving more than a dozen scientists, includes the river’s high mountain origins, where cloud moisture and droplets of melting snow form the very beginnings of the world’s greatest freshwater river system. The Andean bears’ role in this elaborate ecosystem is crucial, Pillco believes. Because they eat seeds in the lowlands and climb long distances to defecate in the mountains, they’re helping preserve forests by dispersing tree seeds at cooler, higher altitudes as the climate warms.

Pillco knew a tracking dog would be vital, and by the time she moved into her mountainside field station and lab last year, Ukuku was well on the way to fulfilling her job description: Andean bear tracker, on call 24/7. When the station alarm sounds, signaling that a camera trap has captured a bear for temporary collaring and study, usually the first beings on the trail—day or night—are the Quechua biologist and her beloved perrita valiente, her brave little dog.

[beardedmrbean]

National mail carrier Posti's headquarters is returning to its former Mannerheimintie landmark next year, reports Talouselämä.

Posti's headquarters moved from the Postitalo building to Pasila in 2003. Now, it's heading back downtown, according to the business magazine.

Located a stone's throw from the iconic Helsinki Railway Station, the distinctive ochre-hued Posti building was completed in 1938. At the time it was considered ultra-modern, a testament to functionalism and technology. It remained the heart of the mail firm's letter-sorting operations into the 1970s.

Posti is also returning to its roots in other ways. This autumn, its rebranding effort came full circle as the state-owned postal company introduced its unified Posti brand in Finland, Sweden and the Baltic countries.

The poopetrator strikes

Helsingin Sanomat readers are captivated by a story about a serial defecator smearing cars in Helsinki's Meilahti neighbourhood.

An unusual vandal is causing trouble for car owners in Meilahti who are finding faeces smeared on car windshields and door handles.

With blades of grass visible in the pile, Siv Envall — whose windscreen and air vents were smudged this week — said she suspects the droppings are canine.

This wasn’t the first time Envall had fallen victim to the 'poopetrator' and expressed concern about a repeat offence.

Warm winds

Finland's weather is expected to warm up this weekend, particularly up north, according to Maaseudun Tulevaisuus, citing the presence of mild and dry föhn winds. These winds typically drop off most of their moisture when they descend the mountains in Norway.

Warmer-than-usual weather is expected across the entire country toward the end of the week. In Lapland, some areas may even see record-high temperatures on Friday, the agricultural outlet reported, drawing on the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI).

Highs are expected to be around 10 degrees Celsius in much of Finland as the workweek draws to a close.

Föhn winds occur on the downwind side of mountain ranges.

[postmoderntongues]

I know it is considered ableist to tell people that if they are going to go out into public they need to shower/wear deodorant/etc but Im actually going to play my autism card and say that it is ableist and inconsiderate of those of us who are hyper-sensory to be in public especially enclosed spaces like transportation or places you will have to stand in line next to other people if you do not smell good.

Like if you just went to the gym, do not get out of your car to use an enclosed ATM or stop at the store for groceries before you shower.

Like I know. I know it is hard to shower. I know it is hard to stay fresh while you're depressed or mentally ill. You should not be excluded from public spaces for struggling with hygiene but you also must consider that it would be inconsiderate of the people you are sharing a space with to smell bad. And this doesnt go just for body odor you also shouldnt eat strongly scented foods in public or smoke/vape in public like once your existence becomes inconsiderate of others you need to re-assess.

But like I have a neurological disability that literally interprets your bad smell as being in physical pain. Imagine a gun going off next to your ear, or being blasted with a bright light (both of which are legally classified as torture to/by even NT people) but the sensation is in your nose. You don't have the right to cause me physical pain while I share a space with you, and if you smell bad in public that is what you are doing.

If you have not showered in a few days and cant bring yourself to shower, wash your ass/armpits at the sink with a wash cloth or spray yourself with some Febreze at the very least. Like I get it I really do I have periods where I also struggle to shower but it is summer, if you are going to be in public you need to have showered within the past 12 hours (preferably within the past 3-6, and applied deodorant). If you work out or preform a strenuous activity that makes you sweat you need to shower, and change out of your sweaty clothes and into fresh ones, and not bring those clothes into public again until you have washed them.

But like yes homeless people/people who dont have access to a shower exist (i was one) and sometimes there is no getting around going in public and i do NOT think the solution is to expel people who smell bad from public spaces because there are some situations where people really don't have access to showers (I think the solution is to provide free mental healthcare and house the homeless so that people can live their best most dignified least obstructive lives possible)

I guess some practical solutions to this would be like I said housing the homeless or at least making public free shower stations commonplace so they can stay clean. Sensory hours which do not permit BO or perfumes at places like supermarkets and banks. Compassionate loved ones supporting your mentally ill friend to take a shower and treating it like the accomplishment that it is (I literally needed to implement a sticker chart to get myself to shower after my last mental breakdown, find what works).

Like don't get it twisted for one second I do not want disenfranchised people to feel unwelcome in public spaces and making them feel unwelcome does no good we need to actually solve the solution on why their presence is obstructive in a shared space. But that doesn't change the fact that most of the bad-smelling people i have to share spaces with during the summer are people like gross NT hippies or gym people like I said I understand that sometimes things get bad and you shouldn't be scorned for it but your loved ones should also not be letting you let your self care spiral out of control. Ive had periods of depression where I struggled to shower myself like I said I get it but at least 70% of people who offend me with their smell during the summer months are athletes and hippies.

I also have strong feelings about not defecating in public bathrooms unless it is a dire emergency.

But this guy with a gym outfit on smelled SO BAD in the bank today i almost left and came back when he was gone if i hadn't already waited on line 5 minutes before he came in. Also worth noting that this problem is like 85% male. Like bring a change of clothes and use the free shower there it isnt that hard for gods sake WASH YOUR BALLS.

But once again let me make very clear that Im not saying ostracize people who struggle with or do not have access to hygiene from public spaces and the solution is providing these people with hygiene and dignity but it is rude af and literally causes physical pain for people like me when you have the option and choose not to like smelling bad is one of the most passively inconsiderate things you could do if you have the choice to not smell bad with a small amount of inconvenience.

Not trying to start a grand discourse or anything just mad that this asshole sent me into bitch mode for the night by smelling bad at the bank because my mood since has been rancid.

[cazort]

Learning words is great but one additional tip I would have for learning a new language is to learn every word in the context of a sentence that has been written or spoken by a native speaker.

Languages are idiomatic and words don't have one-to-one correspondences, but rather, complex, partly-overlapping meanings.

For example, in Spanish, "bomba" can mean "bomb" like an explosive, but it can also mean "pump", like a gas station pump or bike pump, or it can be slang for a sexy woman. And "Bomba" is also a genre of music and dance. And think about how in English, you can say something is "the bomb" and it means it is really awesome, but if you say something "bombed" it means that it was really bad and failed to achieve its goals (like bombing a test = failing or flunking, or a movie that bombs means it was unpopular and made very little money.)

So basically, understanding the literal / core meaning of a word is important, but you need to expose yourself to a lot of different sentences involving that word to pick up the different idiomatic uses. A great way to get this meaning when you look something up is to type the word into google image search when having the settings set for the language in question. This often captures alternate meanings or connotation differences that you might not catch from a dictionary translation.

It's not just the meaning too, it's a connotation of who would say it and where / when you would say it. For example, "poop", "take a shit", and "defecate" all mean the same thing. But say "poop" and you sound like a little kid, "take a shit" and you are being more vulgar, so something an adult or older teen would say only amongst friends in a casual setting, whereas "defecate" sounds formal and stodgy like you would see in a medical textbook or legal proceedings.

When you learn a word, don't just learn the meaning, learn the cultural context.

A lot of Americans find Japanese hard and I think a huge part of it is that Japanese carries relatively more meaning in connotation of "who is speaking" and "what context am I speaking in" and this context includes more information about your relationship to the listener. So for example you can humble yourself or alternatively, insult someone, by using different word choice. We do it in English too, but different languages vary in the degree to which we are able to do this and Japanese for instance does it more. So be aware of the different ways the languages use words differently from each other, and keep this in mind when learning the words. Learn the words in a cultural context, and expose yourself to a variety of contexts. For example, try to converse casually with peers in the language, but also listen to news broadcasts, a children's TV show, and a regular TV drama. Interact on social media in the language, but also take a book out that is on a more dry, nonfiction topic so you can span the range of reading casual, slang-rich text, with formal, precisely-written text.

If you pick material you already know a lot about, it will be easier to read or listen to, because your brain will fill in a lot of things from context. For example, because I know a lot about plants and birds, I can pick up field guides to plants and birds in other languages I only know some of (like Spanish, German, and Portuguese) and read them just fine, only having to look up an occasional word here or there, but I don't know these languages well enough to read a novel written for a typical adult audience of native speakers. If you start by exposing yourself to the material more accessible to you, it gives you a "way in" to the language that is easier and then you can start filling in the gaps and exploring the more general aspects of the language from there.

Tips to learn a new language

The 75 most common words make up 40% of occurrences The 200 most common words make up 50% of occurrences The 524 most common words make up 60% of occurrences The 1257 most common words make up 70% of occurrences The 2925 most common words make up 80% of occurrences The 7444 most common words make up 90% of occurrences The 13374 most common words make up 95% of occurrences The 25508 most common words make up 99% of occurrences

(Source: 5 Steps to Speak a New Language by Hung Quang Pham)

This article has an excellent summary on how to rapidly learn a new language within 90 days.

We can begin with studying the first 600 words. Of course chucking is an effective way to memorize words readily. Here’s a list to translate into the language you desire to learn that Derek Roger suggested! :)

EXPRESSIONS OF POLITENESS (about 50 expressions)      

‘Yes’ and ‘no’: yes, no, absolutely, no way, exactly.    

Question words: when? where? how? how much? how many? why? what? who? which? whose?    

Apologizing: excuse me, sorry to interrupt, well now, I’m afraid so, I’m afraid not.    

Meeting and parting: good morning, good afternoon, good evening, hello, goodbye, cheers, see you later, pleased to meet you, nice to have met.    

Interjections: please, thank you, don’t mention it, sorry, it’ll be done, I agree, congratulations, thank heavens, nonsense.    

NOUNS (about 120 words)

Time: morning, afternoon, evening, night; Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday; spring, summer, autumn, winter; time, occasion, minute, half-hour, hour, day, week, month, year.    

People: family, relative, mother, father, son, daughter, sister, brother, husband, wife; colleague, friend, boyfriend, girlfriend; people, person, human being, man, woman, lady, gentleman, boy, girl, child.    

Objects: address, bag, book, car, clothes, key, letter (=to post), light (=lamp), money, name, newspaper, pen, pencil, picture, suitcase, thing, ticket.    

Places: place, world, country, town, street, road, school, shop, house, apartment, room, ground; Britain, name of the foreign country, British town-names, foreign town-names.    

Abstract: accident, beginning, change, color, damage, fun, half, help, joke, journey, language, English, name of the foreign language, letter (of alphabet), life, love, mistake, news, page, pain, part, question, reason, sort, surprise, way (=method), weather, work.    

Other: hand, foot, head, eye, mouth, voice; the left, the right; the top, the bottom, the side; air, water, sun, bread, food, paper, noise.    

PREPOSITIONS (about 40 words)    

General: of, to, at, for, from, in, on.    

Logical: about, according-to, except, like, against, with, without, by, despite, instead of.    

Space: into, out of, outside, towards, away from, behind, in front of, beside, next to, between, above, on top of, below, under, underneath, near to, a long way from, through.    

Time: after, ago, before, during, since, until.    

DETERMINERS (about 80 words)  

Articles and numbers: a, the; nos. 0–20; nos. 30–100; nos. 200–1000; last, next, 1st–12th.    

Demonstrative: this, that.    

Possessive: my, your, his, her, its, our, their.    

Quantifiers: all, some, no, any, many, much, more, less, a few, several, whole, a little, a lot of.    

Comparators: both, neither, each, every, other, another, same, different, such.    

ADJECTIVES (about 80 words)    

Color: black, blue, green, red, white, yellow.    

Evaluative: bad, good, terrible; important, urgent, necessary; possible, impossible; right, wrong, true.    

General: big, little, small, heavy; high, low; hot, cold, warm; easy, difficult; cheap, expensive; clean, dirty; beautiful, funny (=comical), funny (=odd), usual, common (=shared), nice, pretty, wonderful; boring, interesting, dangerous, safe; short, tall, long; new, old; calm, clear, dry; fast, slow; finished, free, full, light (=not dark), open, quiet, ready, strong.    

Personal: afraid, alone, angry, certain, cheerful, dead, famous, glad, happy, ill, kind, married, pleased, sorry, stupid, surprised, tired, well, worried, young.    

VERBS (about 100 words)    

arrive, ask, be, be able to, become, begin, believe, borrow, bring, buy, can, change, check, collect, come, continue, cry, do, drop, eat, fall, feel, find, finish, forget, give, going to, have, have to, hear, help, hold, hope, hurt (oneself), hurt (someone else), keep, know, laugh, learn, leave, lend, let (=allow), lie down, like, listen, live (=be alive), live (=reside), look (at), look for, lose, love, make, may (=permission), may (=possibility), mean, meet, must, need, obtain, open, ought to, pay, play, put, read, remember, say, see, sell, send, should, show, shut, sing, sleep, speak, stand, stay, stop, suggest, take, talk, teach, think, travel, try, understand, use, used to, wait for, walk, want, watch, will, work (=operate), work (=toil), worry, would, write.    

PRONOUNS (about 40 words)

Personal: I, you, he, she, it, we, they, one; myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves.    

Possessive: mine, yours, his, hers, its, ours, theirs.    

Demonstrative: this, that.    

Universal: everyone, everybody, everything, each, both, all, one, another.

Indefinite: someone, somebody, something, some, a few, a little, more, less; anyone, anybody, anything, any, either, much, many.    

Negative: no-one, nobody, nothing, none, neither.    

ADVERBS (about 60 words)

Place: here, there, above, over, below, in front, behind, nearby, a long way away, inside, outside, to the right, to the left, somewhere, anywhere, everywhere, nowhere, home, upstairs, downstairs.    

Time: now, soon, immediately, quickly, finally, again, once, for a long time, today, generally, sometimes, always, often, before, after, early, late, never, not yet, still, already, then (=at that time), then (=next), yesterday, tomorrow, tonight.    

Quantifiers: a little, about (=approximately), almost, at least, completely, very, enough, exactly, just, not, too much, more, less.    

Manner: also, especially, gradually, of course, only, otherwise, perhaps, probably, quite, so, then (=therefore), too (=also), unfortunately, very much, well.    

CONJUNCTIONS (about 30 words)

Coordinating: and, but, or; as, than, like.    

Time & Place: when, while, before, after, since (=time), until; where.    

Manner & Logic: how, why, because, since (=because), although, if; what, who, whom, whose, which, that.   

[anteyadesign]

Why Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers Are Essential for Urban Sanitation?

Urban sanitation is one of the most critical components of a healthy and sustainable city. As urban populations continue to grow rapidly, cities around the world are facing increased challenges related to hygiene, waste management, and public health. Amidst these challenges, Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers have emerged as a crucial solution for ensuring efficient, accessible, and hygienic sanitation infrastructure in urban environments.

In this blog, we explore the role of Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers in enhancing urban sanitation, while also touching upon the contributions of Portable Office Cabin Manufacturers, Portable Security Cabin Manufacturers, Portable Labour Cabin Manufacturers, and Portable Storage Room Manufacturers in creating a well-rounded and mobile infrastructure ecosystem.

The Growing Need for Sanitation in Urban Areas

With urban migration on the rise, city spaces are becoming increasingly congested. The lack of adequate public toilets often leads to open defecation, which causes severe hygiene issues and spreads communicable diseases. Many urban areas, particularly slums and construction zones, lack proper sanitation infrastructure. This is where Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers play a vital role by providing mobile, scalable, and hygienic toilet facilities that can be installed quickly in any location.

What Makes Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers So Important?

1. Flexibility and Mobility One of the primary advantages offered by Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers is the mobility of their solutions. These cabins can be installed at construction sites, public events, slums, and even emergency zones within hours. They can also be relocated easily, which is essential in rapidly changing urban environments. This flexibility ensures that people have access to hygienic sanitation facilities wherever they are needed most.

2. Hygiene and Waste ManagementModern Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers design their products to meet strict hygiene standards. These units often come equipped with proper waste disposal systems, ventilation, hand-washing stations, and even solar-powered lighting. This attention to detail ensures that the cabins do not just serve the purpose of providing a restroom, but also prevent contamination and disease spread.

3. Supporting Smart CitiesWith the advent of smart cities, sanitation needs to be smarter, more efficient, and eco-friendly. Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers have adapted by integrating features like water-saving flush systems, bio-digester tanks, and sensor-based systems for maintenance alerts. These innovations contribute significantly to the sustainability goals of modern cities.

4. Catering to Diverse NeedsUrban areas are diverse, and so are their sanitation requirements. Whether it’s for men, women, children, or people with disabilities, Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers offer custom solutions that cater to different demographics. This inclusivity enhances overall public health and safety.

Complementary Role of Other Portable Infrastructure Manufacturers

While Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers are vital to urban sanitation, other portable infrastructure providers play equally supportive roles in building a complete mobile ecosystem. Let’s examine how they work together to meet broader urban needs:

Portable Office Cabin Manufacturers

Urban infrastructure projects, especially in construction and development zones, require on-site administrative and supervisory presence. Portable Office Cabin Manufacturers provide mobile office units that can be placed at project locations with minimal setup time. These cabins come equipped with workstations, air conditioning, and internet connectivity, enabling seamless operations.

When urban sanitation facilities are installed in large-scale events or development zones, an operational base is necessary for staff and administrators. That’s where Portable Office Cabin Manufacturers ensure functionality with speed and convenience.

Portable Security Cabin Manufacturers

Public sanitation facilities need to be monitored to prevent misuse, vandalism, or safety concerns. Portable Security Cabin Manufacturers provide guard cabins that are strategically placed near portable toilet setups to ensure the safety of users and the equipment. These cabins are especially useful in high-traffic urban areas, where security is paramount.

In addition, security personnel stationed in these cabins can assist users, manage queues, and report maintenance needs, thereby improving the overall utility and experience of portable toilets in public spaces.

Portable Labour Cabin Manufacturers

Many sanitation projects are implemented in labor-intensive sectors such as construction, municipal work, and event management. Workers often need temporary accommodation close to their work sites. Portable Labour Cabin Manufacturers cater to this demand by providing safe, comfortable, and weatherproof housing units.

These labour cabins can be paired with portable toilet units to create complete worker camps with proper sanitation, accommodation, and administrative setups—all built from mobile solutions. This helps maintain hygiene, boost morale, and increase productivity.

Portable Storage Room Manufacturers

Effective sanitation solutions often require storage space for cleaning equipment, maintenance tools, and sanitation supplies. Portable Storage Room Manufacturers provide mobile storage solutions that are essential for supporting sanitation efforts. These units can be installed next to portable toilet cabins, providing easy access to the tools needed for daily cleaning and waste management.

By offering dedicated storage space, these manufacturers ensure that the maintenance of portable toilets remains efficient and uninterrupted, which is critical for maintaining hygiene standards in urban environments.

Real-World Applications of Portable Toilet Cabins in Urban Settings

1. Urban Slums and Informal SettlementsIn areas where there’s little to no sewer infrastructure, Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers provide an immediate and practical solution. NGOs and government bodies often collaborate with these manufacturers to install units that serve hundreds of people in densely populated neighborhoods.

2. Public Events and FestivalsLarge gatherings create an instant surge in the need for sanitation facilities. Portable toilet cabins are deployed in large numbers at festivals, marathons, political rallies, and more. Their rapid setup and removal ensure minimum disruption to the urban landscape.

3. Disaster Relief and Emergency ZonesAfter natural disasters like floods or earthquakes, existing sanitation infrastructure is often unusable. Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers support relief efforts by supplying hygienic toilet cabins to camps, rescue zones, and field hospitals.

4. Construction and Infrastructure SitesUrban development requires temporary sanitation facilities for workers. Portable toilet cabins are a staple on construction sites, often combined with Portable Labour Cabin Manufacturers and Portable Office Cabin Manufacturers to create a full-functioning worksite.

Benefits to Urban Authorities and Private Sectors

1. Cost-Effective and ScalableCompared to permanent toilet blocks, portable cabins are far more affordable and scalable. Urban municipalities can deploy them across multiple locations without large capital expenditures.

2. Quick DeploymentTime is crucial in urban planning and crisis management. Portable cabins can be installed and made operational within hours, offering immediate relief to sanitation-deprived areas.

3. Eco-Friendly DesignsModern portable toilet cabins are increasingly being built with eco-conscious materials and designs that reduce water usage and minimize environmental impact.

Conclusion

In today’s rapidly urbanizing world, sanitation can no longer be an afterthought. It must be integrated into every aspect of urban planning, from residential areas and slums to construction sites and public events. Portable Toilet Cabin Manufacturers are at the forefront of this mission, delivering fast, affordable, and hygienic solutions that serve millions of people daily.

However, their effectiveness is greatly amplified when supported by complementary mobile infrastructure from Portable Office Cabin Manufacturers, Portable Security Cabin Manufacturers, Portable Labour Cabin Manufacturers, and Portable Storage Room Manufacturers. Together, these manufacturers form a cohesive and flexible ecosystem that can adapt to the ever-changing needs of urban life.

By investing in portable infrastructure, cities not only improve sanitation but also enhance the overall quality of life for their residents—making urban areas cleaner, safer, and more livable for all.

[hygienesolutions1]

Customizing Global Hygiene Solutions for Urban vs. Rural Areas: What Works Where?

Introduction

Hygiene is a universal necessity, but its implementation varies dramatically depending on geography, demographics, infrastructure, and cultural practices. Urban and rural settings present fundamentally different challenges and opportunities when it comes to delivering effective hygiene solutions. Global hygiene providers, NGOs, and governments must therefore adopt tailored approaches to ensure health outcomes are maximized in both environments.

Understanding the Urban vs. Rural Hygiene Landscape

Urban and rural environments differ significantly in terms of population density, infrastructure, access to resources, and public health risks. These differences necessitate unique global hygiene solutions strategies:

Urban Areas

High population density: Increases the risk of disease transmission.

Better infrastructure: More access to plumbing, electricity, and waste management systems.

Greater diversity: Cultural and linguistic diversity can complicate uniform messaging.

Higher waste generation: Increased need for structured waste disposal and recycling.

Rural Areas

Dispersed populations: Makes logistics and service delivery more challenging.

Limited infrastructure: Often lacking in piped water, toilets, and proper sewage systems.

Stronger traditional practices: Cultural habits often shape hygiene behaviors more profoundly.

Limited access to healthcare: Poor hygiene has more severe consequences due to delayed treatment.

Understanding these contrasts is essential when designing and deploying global hygiene solutions across different regions.

Key Hygiene Needs in Urban Areas

Urban areas typically benefit from proximity to resources and infrastructure, yet they also face acute public health risks due to congestion and environmental degradation. Tailored hygiene solutions in cities should emphasize scalability, coordination, and behavior change.

1. Scalable Sanitation Systems

Cities with growing populations often outpace their sanitation infrastructure. Upgrading existing sewer systems and deploying modular sanitation technologies—like container-based toilets or mobile sanitation pods—can address gaps in underserved neighborhoods and informal settlements.

2. Waste Management and Recycling Programs

Urban waste, particularly plastic packaging and disposable hygiene products, contributes significantly to environmental pollution. Programs that integrate hygiene with urban waste management—such as community-led recycling centers or smart waste bins—can reduce contamination and promote circular hygiene practices.

3. Public Hygiene Facilities

Urban environments benefit from investments in public handwashing stations, public toilets, and sanitation kiosks at transportation hubs, schools, and marketplaces. These facilities must be well-maintained and accessible to the disabled and elderly.

4. Hygiene Behavior Campaigns

Culturally diverse urban populations may require multilingual, multimedia campaigns promoting hand hygiene, menstrual hygiene, and surface disinfection. Mobile apps, digital signage, and SMS-based alerts are effective tools for urban hygiene awareness.

Key Hygiene Needs in Rural Areas

Rural communities often face more foundational challenges in hygiene, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Lack of water, inadequate education, and reliance on traditional practices necessitate grassroots, community-driven hygiene strategies.

1. Access to Water and Sanitation

Many rural areas lack piped water and rely on wells, rivers, or rainwater. Installing boreholes, gravity-fed water systems, and eco-friendly latrines is critical. These systems must be affordable, low-maintenance, and locally accepted.

2. Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS)

CLTS is a widely adopted strategy that empowers communities to eliminate open defecation and improve sanitation through locally driven action. By involving residents in identifying and solving hygiene issues, CLTS promotes sustainable change.

3. School Hygiene Programs

Schools play a key role in teaching hygiene behaviors in rural areas. Integrating handwashing stations, menstrual hygiene materials, and structured WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) curricula can significantly impact community health over time.

4. Low-Cost Hygiene Kits

Distributing low-cost hygiene kits that include soap, sanitary napkins, toothbrushes, and nail clippers can bridge the accessibility gap. These kits should be culturally tailored and supported by education to ensure proper usage.

The Importance of Cultural Customization

One-size-fits-all hygiene solutions rarely succeed, especially in diverse and tradition-rich rural communities. Both urban and rural strategies must be:

Culturally relevant: Understanding local beliefs and behaviors ensures greater acceptance.

Gender-sensitive: Addressing the specific hygiene needs of women, girls, and marginalized groups is critical.

Locally led: Empowering local leaders, health workers, and teachers to advocate for hygiene fosters ownership and sustainability.

For instance, promoting menstrual hygiene in conservative rural areas might require discreet communication strategies and female-only workshops, while in cities, public education through social media or health influencers may be more effective.

Technology and Innovation in Hygiene Delivery

Technological innovations are reshaping hygiene delivery across urban and rural contexts:

Urban tech solutions: Smart sensors to monitor public toilet cleanliness, contactless handwashing stations, and hygiene app-based reporting.

Rural tech innovations: Solar-powered water pumps, off-grid sanitation systems, and mobile hygiene education units.

Digital mapping tools and GIS data also help in identifying underserved communities and targeting interventions efficiently, especially in large-scale programs.

Case Study Examples

Urban: Mumbai, India

The “Toilet for All” initiative in Mumbai deployed thousands of modular toilet units across slums, each integrated with handwashing stations and managed by community caretakers. Public-private partnerships and digital tracking ensured accountability and efficiency.

Rural: Northern Kenya

In drought-prone regions of Kenya, NGOs installed low-tech tippy tap handwashing devices and introduced reusable menstrual hygiene kits. Community health volunteers provided hygiene training in local dialects, significantly improving hygiene compliance and school attendance for girls.

Conclusion

Effectively addressing global hygiene challenges requires a deep understanding of the contextual differences between urban and rural environments. While cities benefit from infrastructure and connectivity, rural areas rely on localized, participatory, and cost-effective approaches. Customizing hygiene solutions to these unique environments is not only practical—it is essential for protecting public health, promoting dignity, and achieving sustainable development goals.

[alaskaenmelena]

In the US, police officers complained about a boss who, as a prank, defecated on the floor of the station, put Viagra in the coffee and hot peppers in the cops' food, and even stuck a needle into the penis of one of his subordinates. New season of "The Office"

[cheapandawesome]

NJ Police Chief Accused of Pooping on Floor Spiking Cops' Coffee With Viagra

A New Jersey police chief is being accused of creating a toxic -- and smelly -- work environment ... by defecating on the floors at the station, spiking officers' coffee with Viagra and Adderall, sticking a hypodermic needle into the penis of a… via https://ift.tt/JRYXLMj

[labelleperfumery]

NJ Police Chief Accused of Pooping on Floor, Spiking Cops' Coffee With Viagra

A New Jersey police chief is being accused of creating a toxic — and smelly — work environment … by defecating on the floors at the station, spiking officers’ coffee with Viagra and Adderall, sticking a hypodermic needle into the penis of a… from TMZ.com https://www.tmz.com/2025/03/27/new-jersey-police-chief-robert-farley-poops-on-floor-spikes-coffee-viagra/

[pop-goes-the-weasel]

Time for my first blog about non-grad school reading!

Currently reading

Indian Innovation, Not Jugaad: 100 ideas that Transformed India by Dinesh C. Sharma

Speaks about innovations in post-Independent India that profoundly impacted the country. It distinguishes innovation from Jugaad, which is sadly the name given to many innovations from the subcontinent, when it originally meant a temporary fix. The book is divided into 10 sections, and I speak here about my take-aways from the first two, Revolutions and Food, Water and Sanitation.

In Revolutions, the book speaks about the innovations which led to the massive increase in food production in the 1970's and '80s, as well the improvements in IT and telecom. Food, Water and Sanitation talks about just that, and more. The production of food is not enough to stop a populace from starving, you need excellent harvesting, storage and distribution systems in place. My key take-aways and comments?

Many of the wheat, rice and poultry breeds were developed by hybridisation and genetic engineering with foreign ones. Sure hope the dependence on a few varieties throughout this huge landmass, while overlooking the traditional breeds will not be criticised later. (Spoiler alert: it got criticised). But then, it did help India to go from a food-importer, to an exporter.

Oilseeds and fish! The ones where the varieties with high yields were developed in India itself! Intensive aquaculture has its drawbacks, but fish became more accessible within living memory itself

India seems excellent at solving mechanical problems!

The electronic telephone exchange lines developed by Bell Laboratories got adapted for high temperatures, humidity and the high load, expanding rural connectivity in just 3 years

The Swaraj tractor! The Mark II water pump! The first designed suitable for the small landholdings usual in the country. The second modified to water the entire farming community

Food in storage does not equate to food on the plate. Litigation after famine deaths (these are not a thing of the past), pushed grains into circulation for public rations, maternity food schemes and so on.

Feed the children! Food alloted to school lunches and pre-school kindergartens help! We have seen it in our country!

The Prime Minister who globalised the economy and liberated the market also introduced school lunches for free. These can go hand in hand

Wait...why did I not know till now that the Sulabh toilets in the railway and bus stations compost waste into biogas?

Many of these were made possible by people who were influenced by Gandhi, who was concerned with both nation liberation and nation building.

They are Tribhuvandas K Patel, who helped form the dairy co-operative making India the world leader in milk production; Tarabai Modak and Anutai Wagh, who formed the earliest, free pre-school teaching centres which would also contact drop-out children in their homes; and Bindeshwar Pathak, forming the compost toilets that ended open defecation stopped the people of certain castes of being condemned to a life of being manual scavengers and night-soil carriers

[unchronicles]

SUPERB WAYS TO ENSURE SANITATION FACILITY TO ALL

To guarantee the availability of pure sanitation for all, essential strategies encompass:

Establishing effective waste management systems, eliminating open defecation, advocating for handwashing with soap and water, creating water monitoring and regulatory frameworks, educating communities on hygiene practices, collaborating with local populations to assess their needs, and ensuring access to clean water sources through the development and upkeep of infrastructure. This should be accompanied by ongoing monitoring and evaluation of sanitation initiatives to pinpoint areas requiring enhancement.

KEY COMPONENTS TO CONSIDER INCLUDE:

▪️Infrastructure development:

Building and maintaining sufficient sanitation facilities, such as toilets equipped with proper sewage disposal systems, in easily accessible locations.

▪️Hygiene education:

Increasing awareness of proper sanitation practices, including handwashing, particularly in communities with limited understanding.

▪️Community engagement:

Involving local populations in the decision-making and implementation processes to ensure their needs are adequately addressed.

▪️Waste management:

Creating efficient systems for the collection, treatment, and disposal of both solid and liquid waste.

▪️Monitoring and evaluation:

Conducting regular assessments of the effectiveness of sanitation programs and making necessary adjustments.

SPECIFIC ACTIONS TO UNDERTAKE INCLUDE:

▪️Promoting behaviour change:

Initiating campaigns that encourage regular handwashing with soap and the proper use of toilets.

▪️Developing policies and regulations:

Implementing standards for water quality and sanitation practices.

▪️Investing in research and innovation:

Exploring new technologies and methods to enhance sanitation access in difficult environments.

▪️Collaborating with stakeholders:

Partnering with government entities, NGOs, and the private sector to comprehensively address sanitation challenges.

TO ENHANCE PUBLIC ACCESS TO SANITATION FACILITIES, THE FOLLOWING MEASURES CAN BE UNDERTAKEN:

▪️Establish new facilities: Initiate the construction or provide financial support for the development of sanitation facilities for individuals lacking access.

▪️Supervise open areas: Conduct regular inspections of open areas to deter open defecation practices.

▪️Engage the community: Involve local residents in the planning, design, and execution of sanitation initiatives.

▪️Advocate for clean water practices: Promote hygiene and clean water practices, including the importance of handwashing.

▪️Educate and raise awareness: Inform the public about the significance of sanitation and hygiene.

▪️Implement robust waste management systems: Encourage recycling and upcycling efforts, alongside effective composting methods.

▪️Ensure accessibility of sanitation facilities: Guarantee that toilets and handwashing stations are accessible to all individuals.

▪️Maintain sanitation facilities: Ensure that restrooms and fixtures are constructed from materials that are easy to clean, and that they are equipped with adequate lighting, heating, and ventilation.

▪️Provide soap and water in sanitation facilities: Ensure that all sanitation facilities are stocked with soap and both hot and cold water.

▪️Install covered waste receptacles: Ensure that sanitation facilities are equipped with covered waste disposal units.

Dr. Jemi Sudhakar, Principal-Velamma Vidhyashram, UN women designate

[dhanvantarihospital]

8 Harmless Habits You Didn’t Know Can Cause Piles

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a common medical condition characterized by swollen veins in the rectal or anal area. While they are often associated with chronic constipation or prolonged sitting, many seemingly harmless habits can inadvertently contribute to their development. Below are eight everyday habits that may unknowingly increase the risk of piles.

1. Prolonged Sitting

Spending extended hours sitting, whether at a desk, in front of the television, or during long commutes, can put undue pressure on the anal region. This sustained pressure restricts blood flow and can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids over time. Incorporating short breaks to stand, stretch, or walk every hour can significantly reduce this risk.

2. Skipping Fiber in Your Diet

A low-fiber diet is one of the most significant contributors to constipation, a leading cause of piles. Foods rich in dietary fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, help soften stools and promote healthy bowel movements. Neglecting fiber intake can result in straining during defecation, which exacerbates the chances of developing piles.

3. Excessive Straining

Straining while passing stools increases the pressure on rectal veins. This habit is often a result of constipation or a lack of patience during bowel movements. Avoid pushing forcefully and instead adopt healthy practices, such as sitting in a squat-like position or using a footstool to ensure easier elimination.

4. Ignoring the Urge to Go

Delaying bowel movements can cause stool to become harder and more difficult to pass. This not only increases the likelihood of straining but also contributes to irritation of the rectal lining. Responding promptly to the natural urge can prevent unnecessary complications.

5. Overuse of Laxatives

While laxatives can provide temporary relief from constipation, excessive or frequent use can weaken the bowel muscles over time. Dependency on these aids may lead to irregular bowel habits, inadvertently increasing the risk of piles. Instead, focus on natural remedies like hydration, fiber, and exercise.

6. Heavy Weightlifting

Engaging in activities that require lifting heavy weights, whether at the gym or during physical labor, can strain the pelvic floor muscles. This strain can lead to increased abdominal pressure, affecting the rectal veins. To minimize the risk, use proper lifting techniques and avoid overexertion.

7. Chronic Coughing or Sneezing

Persistent coughing or sneezing due to allergies, respiratory conditions, or smoking can create repeated pressure in the abdominal and pelvic regions. Over time, this repetitive strain may contribute to the development of piles. Treating the underlying cause of chronic coughing and staying hydrated can mitigate this risk.

8. Poor Hydration

Dehydration results in harder stools, which are more challenging to pass. Drinking adequate water daily helps maintain soft stools, reducing the need for straining during bowel movements. Proper hydration also supports overall digestive health and prevents complications related to constipation.

By understanding how these seemingly innocuous habits can affect rectal health, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk of piles. Simple adjustments to lifestyle, diet, and daily routines can go a long way in maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.

Reaching the Clinic

Dr. Bhavesh Doshi’s clinic is located at: Dhaval Apartment, Factory Lane, near Railway Station, Bhatt Chawl, Mini Zaveri Bazaar, Mhatre Wadi, Borivali West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400092.

Directions for Patients:

From Western Line: Take a local train to Borivali station. The clinic is a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride away.

From Central Line: Connect to the Western Line at Dadar or Andheri station, and proceed to Borivali.

For Patients Outside Mumbai: Travel to Mumbai via train, bus, or flight. From the airport or railway station, use local transport to reach Borivali West.

With expert care and a convenient location, Dr. Doshi’s clinic provides exceptional pediatric surgical services for families across Mumbai and beyond.

[planesspoken]

We're going on vacation?

De fete. Station. Gas tanks.

Da fair. Tent. Don't pull ranks.

Defecation tanks.

Hear what you want to hear.

You had me at defecation tanks.

Alright shit bag.

That ships got flour, and I don't know what that one's got, grain maybe.

Vatican tanks.

That one looks a little light, mind if I take a sample of that water... Just as I thought.

(Sound effect, cut to commercial)

[theshadowsparrow]

Location: One of Theo's Labs Participants: Theo, Npc's

The darkened chamber was lit by sconces evenly placed around the area, illuminating just where Theo needed. The in-between left enough shadow to create the ambiance for this laboratory’s edge to be perfect for the subjects to wish for slumber but rarely get any. The walls had been constructed thick and impenetrable as a built-in sound barrier. A good thing, too, for the deeds done in the name of discovery and sake of perfection were a dastardly loud process sometimes. The ceiling was vaulted and ventilated with slow-turning fans that had sealed grates of good engineering. Theo was glad Siver (Ms. Nightingale) had gone all out for him. He was also glad for the various drains in the floor and the water hook ups. The subjects sometimes defecated themselves. These things were not nearly as impressive as the chemistry stations and the vats installed for him to indulge within his hobby. Poisons. For what are drugs, but consumable such? The art of taking herbal substances and incorporating chemistry, mixing the two to manipulate them within physical beings to work the wondrous outcomes one desires…. Yes, a hobby. Theo’s sleek, toned form silently stood on the hard floor, hunched over the midsection of a lab table. Beakers and glass swirling tubes ran their course with copper wiring, vials galore, and tubes running up toward the ceiling. A mad scientist's dream. And all this for lil ol’ Theo. Behind the table lay a well-organized system of his array of ingredients. The secret to his hobby’s success. No books. No written down recipes. No formulas or calculations. The sketchy, quiet lurker who appeared unassuming and from humble beginnings had, in fact, quite the brain on him. Grooooan His head tilted a fraction, hardly a thing to notice at the sound. Ah, one of the test subjects had come to. Theo set down one of the beakers with amber liquid swirling within and walked opposite the table towards the racks. There were currently five in attendance. Over the past three years, he’d had up to nearly twenty volunteers come knocking, eager to lay upon more. Individuals willing to undergo all manner of experimentations for the sake of being fed his wondrous Discordia. A darkening smile faintly hinted across the assassin’s lips as he approached the woman laid across the table, hung downward at 15 degrees.

“You survived. Goodie for you. Would you like another round?” Theo asked. Her body was bare save for undergarments and socks. Small lacerations lined down her arms and thrice across her belly. Small pin-pricks also could be found in various places upon her body to include her neck behind an ear, the inner thigh, near her womb, and naturally, between fingers. Wounds that didn’t fester and gave him access to her bloodstream. “Water,” came the meager whisper in an attempt to speak from the woman as it felt as if fire laced the inside of every inch of her skin. “I’m sorry, what was that?” Theo asked, merely tilting an ear in her direction. Unable to bear it longer, needing to make it stop for lack of the ability to claw at her own flesh, the woman succumbed. “More.” “I thought so.” Theo then reached within a pocket on his person for a syringe filled with a swirling amber and violet liquid, as well as specks of glittering gold. “Let’s see how you do with an increase, hm? Don’t die.” He set the needle behind her ear and inserted it deep before plunging the liquid down. He could watch the tension in her body fade fairly quickly as the drug began to take effect. As he removed the needle once the syringe was half empty, Theo listened to the cadence of her heartbeat and glanced down the line. The other four volunteers lay in various stages of their highs. One shivered as his chest was virtually sliced bare. The healing properties kept these people alive and Theo had been forced to incorporate an additive to keep the wounds from sealing up. Even so, he had to inflict the wounds once per day. Not that he minded or that it bothered him. The next two further, one upright and the other spread eagle, even relished when he did, the little pain sluts. Those two had thick cuts down their legs and arms, able to handle more than the rest. It was the last volunteer that whimpered nearly non-stop. It was the last volunteer that Theo asked daily if they wished to go home. He walked to that one now. She was young and a thing of beauty. Elven with flowing black hair and porcelain skin. Not a single cut upon her but plenty of needle marks. Sweat beaded her brow and across her budding chest. Her breathing was quick, with palpitations. The girl’s eyes wandered erratically with a look of stress. Her drug of choice was that of dreams, or in this experiment… nightmares. Each day he asked, she went into a frenzy and begged him not to send her back. Theo was offered all manner of things to be kept here, to give her the drug. How could he deny her? No, he never did. She was still alive, after all. A willing volunteer. He went back to the bench, to the beaker, and began to swirl its contents once more. Movement from the side glass case caught his attention which elicited a sigh. “I’ll feed you soon, my pet,” Theo told one of his own creations.