#Ford Navigation System

[kayhanaudio2]

Kayhan Audio Car Stereo with SatNav for Ford BA/BF/Territory Version 6 has a big 9.6-inch touchscreen display, giving a sleek and modern touch to your vehicle's interior. It boasts GPS navigation with real-time traffic updates, and also Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi connectivity for media streaming, hands-free calling, and app integration. The high-resolution screen and user-friendly UI ensure a stylish comfortable driving experience. Website:

https://kayhanaudio.com.au/product/car-stereo-with-satnav-for-ford-ba-bf-territory-version-6-9-6-inch/

[trianglefans]

Ford is not a fan of computers. He much prefers putting pen to paper. Still, his thesis advisor is insisting that he use this thing for his research— something about funding agreements—so he’ll give it a shot. Navigating the interface proves frustrating. Luckily, there is a virtual assistant named Bill to teach him about the computer’s features. Supposedly there is a way to switch him off but Ford can’t figure out how. Oh well, it is nice to have the company. Bill is a simple chat bot—nothing more than a clever system of conversation trees. Ford knows this. It must be the isolation finally getting to him, then, because he can’t shake the feeling that Bill is actually talking to him…

This is for my William 95 AU where the events of TBOB take place in the 90s and Bill is the mascot for a popular computer company. He’s stuck in the computer and trying to get the nerd on the other side to get him out of there.

I love 90’s internet and computer tech so this has been super fun to work on. I’ve got a couple more things for it in the works :)

Based on the Windows 95 logo

[potato-frenzy]

"You can't keep food down....... because you can feel it digesting?" Ford speaks slowly, careful whilst folding wirey limbs up off the floor of the latrine. Eternally concerned at the way Bill's joints overextend in this shape, he wonders what the rationale in giving him such a dysfunctional body was. As far as he understands, this is meant to be part of his former friend's(possibly rekindled, he's not sure) rehabilitation. Perhaps navigating a less than ideal health situation is part of that? Or it could an adjustment period?

Bill remains dead weight, letting his head loll with an uncomfortable looking arch to his neck over Ford's arm. His voice sounding appropriately strangled as he speaks from such an awkward angle. "My brain apparently can't handle the awareness of such an inefficient breakdown of fuel........."

Ford sighs gruffly as he settles Bill back into the berth the formerly multidimensional being is occupying for the interim. Even in a solidly human form, there's still something uncanny, somehow slightly inhuman about Bill. The subtle glow of his sclera in the dim light of the cabin, the reactive slits to his pupils, joints that bend too far, etc. Even as he looks at him now, the curve of Bill's spine is hunched into a shape that is nearly exaggerated with his too long legs pulled to his chin. "Humans aren't generally aware of that particular process, my would be tyrant. Besides, you've nearly passed out just from standing up twice this week. If it weren't too risky, I'd convince Stan to let us drive into town to see a doctor."

Bill makes an unhappy sound that is nearly a growl, mostly a grumble, slightly a gurgle. The low light from the lantern on the wall plays across the shaggy blonde hair that this corporeal came with as it falls into those glowing eyes. Mere firefly light colored slits in the shadows while Bill squirms. "Everything fucking sucks, Sixer ........this body is brand new and it's already falling apart......I think I'm dying........."

"You're not dying, Bill. At least not yet." Ford leans against the frame of the berth, grunting softly as his joints protest. He looks down at the miserable creature before him and in his care, ill-fittingly clothed in his own apparel. "You've only been here a few weeks and while you have lost some weight, the vomiting hasn't become life threatening. The fainting could be attributed to that anyway. I've been formulating some theories though."

"Oh joy, theories. What has my great wise one deduced from my useless human form's failure to function?" Bill's feet thump the wall as he attempts fruitlessly to stretch in the tiny berth.

Ford doesn't like the odd quality that human vocal cords bring to Bill's voice, making it sound flat and featureless. Or perhaps, he was just too used to the sound of a voice beyond human capability. The rich and layered tones and pitches that were just barely outside of his mind's ability to grasp. This voice felt so small, so digestible to mortal senses.

Another sigh, pushing his glasses aside to rub his eyes tiredly, Ford begins slowly. "At first I didn't think I could ascribe normal human body processes to you. But as time has passed, Stan pointed out to me that your body is functioning like a regular human. Albeit a regular human with health issues. Apparently he's seen it before."

Ford idly begins to pet Bill's hair, the texture something between a myriad of different textures. Impossible to place it as it seems to float from certain viewpoints. It's as fascinating as it is frustrating. Ford's caught himself reaching for it more than once in the time he's been here.

Bill never makes comment on it.

"Your immune system seems confused and your vascular system over reactive. And factoring in how unnaturally flexible you are...... you've said you're overly aware of everything happening in your body-"

"It's getting easier to ignore if that makes a difference."

"It does, thank you my m- my mortal ward. Ahem, there's a number of conditions that can cause such things to occur in a body. It could be something like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. A proper doctor would need to run tests but it's very likely. We might also just need to keep trying to help you keep food and water down until you're used to human body processes."

Ford looks down at Bill then, seeing two faintly glowing slit pupiled eyes blinking up at him in the low light should be more disconcerting than it is. Which is to say that it is oddly comforting, knowing that Bill has been peacefully listening like he did all those years ago. The now solidly human shaped creature looking up at him, curled up in HIS berth on the Stan O'War II, wearing HIS clothes. A comfortable T-shirt with a silly cartoon on it that Soos gifted him, a grey cardigan with sleeves that keep slipping over Bill's long spidery hands and hangs down to his thighs.

The pants had to be procured for him, fished out of a donation bin on the interstate. Not quite long enough to cover Bill's boney ankles but fit comfortably around equally boney hips, it didn't help that he had no ass to speak of though. A tote with clothes collected from the neighbors had made Bill a few outfits that made him fit to be seen in polite company was stashed in a storage locker on the ship. But no matter what the day held, Bill managed to change into some of Ford's clothes when the opportunity arose.

Ford tried not to look too deeply into it but there was that niggling thought some measure of the same regard he used to hold for his multidimensional muse may still be returned. He didn't let himself linger on the possibility too much, especially with Bill in such a vulnerable state.

Besides, Bill's current form looked barely a few years older than Wendy at present. Considering anything untoward sat uncomfortably in his stomach with such youth looking up at him.

-------------------------------------------------------

Excuse me while I just dump this here and run. Legit I don't even go here but this mental image possessed me and I had to write it down. I think Bill getting put in a meat suit purgatory would be made all the better by having a chronic illness come free with the body.

[iiryebreadii]

my starwars!gravity falls au has taken over my brain. mystery twins in space!!!

The text in the images is pretty small so!! Everything's also written below each image :)

Initiate Mabel Pines

She and her twin brother, Dipper, were nearly too old to be trained by the time the Jedi found them on Search. She remembers what life was like before being taken in by the Order, back when all she had was her brother.

She's been having trouble finding a knight or master to teach her. While she is strong in the Force, she has a hard time focusing and finding the serenity that all her teachers expect of her. Meditation feels impossible, and her emotions can become overwhelming. She grows attached to people and objects quickly, and struggles to sever these connections when her teachers point out her 'shortcomings'.

*darth vader voice* the ADHD is strong in this one

She's afraid she will never find a master, that she'll age out of the system and be transferred to one of the service corps, far away from her brother.

When Dipper accepts an apprenticeship with some stuffy traveling researcher, Mabel can't help but feel a little betrayed. They're supposed to stick together, aren't they? Hasn't it always been the two of them against the world? Now, he's leaving her to study with a Jedi that lives off-planet. When will she even see him again?

But she can't let her feelings get in the way of Dipper's happiness. He's been studying this Jedi's work for years, and he seemed so happy just to be offered the apprenticeship... she tells him to go, to become a real padawan. Just don't forget about his sister back home, okay?

With her brother gone, temple life feels almost unbearable. She didn't realize how much she relied on him in the day to day, didn't realize just how much she would miss him. When she leaves the temple for a class trip, she steps away from the group, just for a bit, to try to get her mind in order. And she gets kidnapped by a group of opportunistic pirates.

She puts up a truly valiant fight, throwing pirates around with her mind, but she is still an unarmed 12 year old, and they manage to get force-suppressing cuffs on her. She meets and befriends the other kids the pirates have taken, and does her best to protect them, even without the Force.

Padawan Dipper Pines

Eager to grow up and become a Jedi; he wants to be a knight so that he can protect people (he wants to be strong enough to where he never has to be afraid again) (he wants to be strong enough to always be able to protect his sister)

He takes all his studies very seriously, but is especially fond of astro-navigation. There are huge mysteries in the galaxy, and sometimes entire planets are dropped from star-charts and lost to time. He wants to discover——or re-discover——all of them.

Ancient Jedi history, abandoned Jedi temples, and lost force techniques are also a big interest of his; he follows Ford's published work religiously, and when he learns that the Jedi is visiting the temple, Dipper goes out of his way to try to meet him.

The thought of an apprenticeship doesn't even cross his mind; he simply wants to discuss theories with an experienced Jedi that he respects. When Ford offers to teach him, though? How could he possibly say no? It's the opportunity of a lifetime.

He feels guilty for leaving Mabel, but she reassured him that she'll be fine, and tells him to follow his dreams. Just remember to call home, right?

When he learns that Mabel has gone missing, he doesn't allow anything to stop him from going after her, not even his new mentor Jedi Master Ford. He threatens to steal the master Jedi's ship and leave him behind if he doesn't allow Dipper to search for her. Ford quickly capitulates.

He and Mabel share a strong force-bond. They've always been peripherally aware of each other, even over long distances. Across the stars, they might not be able to communicate at all, or even get an inkling of the other's feelings, but they can at least feel that the other is alive.

When Mabel gets her connection to the force cut off by force-suppressant cuffs, to Dipper it just feels like she's suddenly gone. For the first time in his life, he can't feel his sister, and he's terrified.

[carsthatnevermadeitetc]

Ford Airstream Concept, 2007. "On the heels of Airstream's 75th birthday, Ford and Airstream have teamed up to deliver a futuristic crossover concept that could be used to navigate America's highways and byways." The Airstream concept used a plug-in hybrid hydrogen fuel cell drive system

[primreaperstuff]

My Gravity Falls Warframe Headcanons

Thinking more about my other post where I drew comparisons between Wally and Bill, I decided to come up with how the cast of Gravity Falls would play the game Warframe! (It's a free-to-play-but-not-fee-to-pay looter shooter for PC and consoles. You kill everything and understand the concept of love lol). Spoilers for the Second Dream, the Sacrifice-- pretty much everything lol.

In this world, "H16h V0l7463" (actually a team of people headed by Amir Beckett) is the developer of Warframe, which is absolutely not based off of an alternate timeline where the cloning project that resulted in several boy bands, including Sev'ral Timez, accidentally produced eldritch horrors. That would be Totally Weird™️!

Soos's screen name is ShackFan2000 (mastery rank 30, legendary rank 5). He's been playing the game since it was in closed beta, and currently maintains a cross-save on the PC and Switch (his screen name on Switch used to be ShackFan2000butigotaswitchdude). He remembers when the game had raids and a dash meter, when pets could die, and can recount the Great Octavia Grind like it was yesterday. He mains Oberon Prime, who he is convinced will rise again someday, but also loves playing as Loki Prime and Volt Prime. His fashion-frame skills aren't great-- he tends to overdo it with colors and attachments. He likes going into relays and randomly gifting newbies boosters and Orokin Reactors/Catalysts. He will also sometimes find players grinding for a specific frame and buy it for them. He runs the clan "RAD DAWG CENTRAL" which also includes Melody, Wendy, Ford, Dipper, and Mabel.

In recent years, Soos got his wife Melody into the game too, so they regularly play it together on audio chat. Her screen name is MeatCuteBentoPanda, she has a mastery rank of 3, and she mains Mag. She's asked him not to buy her frames, since she wants to earn them herself, but did reluctantly accept a gift of Equinox from him. She doesn't usually change her frames' appearance.

Soos tried to get Stan into the game when it went public, but Stan (screen name "KingNJ1967") doesn't really get it. He can loot and even shoot things in real life, and it's not really that fun, so why put it in a game? He never got past the tutorial mission on his own account and has a mastery rank of 1. But Stan does watch Soos play and sometimes designs Soos's Warframes-- you can tell a Stanframe apart from a Soosframe by its extensive use of golds and reds, insistence on using the Kiteer ephemera, as well as a better grasp of color theory overall. He also adores the Drifter, shouting some variant of "He's basically me! In a way!" whenever the Drifter shows up. Absolutely did not ever get into a Gravity Falls weirdness situation where he met the Drifter in Duviri and played Komi with them while chatting about family and sacrifices with them, no siree. ;)

Soos had better luck with Ford (screen name: "6Shooter"), although it took several years and an overhauled gameplay system for Ford to really get into it. His mastery rank is 16. He mains Revenant Prime and enjoys min-maxing everything, keeping up to date with all the latest meta builds and weapons and blathering about his stats to anybody who will listen. His secret shames are that his actual favorite frame is Limbo and he loves to use the Stug. He recalls a couple of dimensions that reminded him of the game's universe, and even one where everybody had a Narmer veil on (he didn't even realize it was sinister since all the anti-Bill stuff he was packing at the time made him basically immune to the veils' effects-- he nicknamed it the Tacky Headpiece Dimension and was promptly driven out by that dimension's Ballas for that). He colors all his frames either black or white. He vehemently hates the Perrin Sequence, as its logo is a triangle and he interpreted that as Bill worship. If you enter with a yellow sigil from the Perrin Sequence, he will find you and make you endure Host Navigation. He also thinks Loid is cute.

Wendy (screen name: "maglet00816") is a casual player. Her mastery rank is 10. Although she called herself a Maglet, she can usually be found fishing or mining as Ivara. She's not in a rush to finish the story, and likes chilling in blue/purple Fortuna too much to start the New War questline.

Mabel (screen name: "GLITTERPIG618!!!") got into the game independently of Soos several years after the events of the show, and she got Dipper into it too. Her mastery rank is 18. She mains Garuda, but also loves to rotate between Valkyr, Khora, and Voruna. She was despondent for a few days when she accidentally killed her Kubrow Waddles and now only runs with Sentinels (even though the whole affection/health mechanic thing has since been patched out). She gives Soos a run for his money in terms of garish Warframes with way too many attachments, and poses them frequently. She loved that dating sim thing with the Hex and has seduced all of them. She has a crush on Aoi Morohoshi and Albrecht Entrati, and writes fluff shipping Ordis with Cy as well as unhinged toxic yaoi between Nef Anyo and Parvos Granum.

Dipper (screen name: "number1mysterysolver") started playing some time after Mabel got into the game. He primarily plays on Xbox, but maintains a cross-save on PC too. His mastery rank is 15. He mains Excalibur, but has grown to appreciate Citrine, Volt, and Xaku. Sometimes goes on Solo missions on Pluto as Gauss just to bonk into All of the Walls. Vehemently denies finding Citrine, Yareli, and Wisp cute. He currently maintains a conspiracy board on Warframe lore and writes about his theories and speculations for the game. He claims not to care about appearances but his Warframes are always decked out in nice-looking, professional gear. He is online friends with Pacifica and plays with her and Mabel a lot, but neither Pacifica nor Dipper realizes that the other plays the game nor will they confess it to each other. Mabel has figured it out and wants to see how long it'll take for the shoe to drop for these two. He has a Kuva Lich working on his Railjack named Bopp Bipp.

Pacifica (screen name: "sodwlqxpsdc-caeser") has been playing since the game was made available to the public. Her mastery rank is 29. She hid her enjoyment of the game from her parents and the public for years. Now if her parents ask, she's only in it for the fashion frames and opportunity to flex her expensive gear on broke Tenno. In reality, though her Warframes are always well-designed, she loves the story for its themes of redemption and love conquering the odds. She used to main Loki, but nowadays prefers Gara and Cyte-09. Her knowledge of the meta rivals Ford's. She is one of the few players to regularly go into the Conclave.

Old Man McGucket found out about the game and had to be stopped before he made a functional replica of Chroma Prime out of scrap metal for a State of the Union speech. Once randomly mentioned that Dominus Thrax still owes him money and walked away, never elaborating and having forgotten that he said it shortly after.

Robbie (screen name: "bloodSKULLviolence") used to play Warframe occasionally. Then he got the Hex missions started and his father Greg Valentino laughed, cheerfully revealing that he offered to produce music for On-lyne a long time ago but was turned down, and saying that the game is proof that they missed out on so much fun by not picking him for a music producer (He wonders if he'd have been more successful if he'd called himself "Gregory V" rather than "Greggy V"). Robbie put down the controller, turned off his Playstation, and never played Warframe again. He got to mastery rank 13 before he quit and used to main Ash.

[nemonoonesuch]

Ergo Proxy References and Parallelisms Vol. III

This post was supposed to be longer, but for "reasons" I guess it will be shorter than expected. My apologies for the rush.

On this Volume:

DARKMAN

WW2

Train Stations

FOLLOW THE WHITE RABBIT

Navigation Map

City of the Sun

Douglas Coupland

Bilbul

DARKMAN

Darkman (the 1990 superhero-horror film directed by Sam Raimi) belong to different genre, and dwells into different tropes, it was an atmospheric influence for Manglobe and the creators of Ergo Proxy. The idea of the erosion of a main character with an eroded identity lies in the DNA of both stories since Darkman's protagonist, Dr. Peyton Westlake, loses his physical identity after a brutal attack leaves him disfigured. He uses synthetic skin to assume different identities, but his transformation also leads to a psychological struggle with his sense of self.

Proxies as shapeshifters themselves are no strangers to the habit of taking a human appearance to coexists among their creations. Vincent Law is the very well crafted human suit of a meek personality, antipodal to his more insightful but aggressive true nature as Ergo Proxy. Yet, even as a human, Vincent struggles to get to be accepted in Romdeau's Society.

On Meditatio XIV, the Proxy regent of Ophelia used his ability to shapeshift to create multiple identities for himself, and so, blend into society by taken multiple identities.

WW2

Not only the uniforms and vehicles, but the weapons of the survivor soldiers at Xharos Dome on Meditatio VIII remind us to the latest installment of Word War in our history.

At a point, a soldier has what is very reminiscent of a Walter P38, a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol that was developed by Carl Walther GmbH as the service pistol of the Wehrmacht at the beginning of World War II.

Meditatio VIII

C&S Detective Special 2()19

One of the Weapons that Re-L Mayer uses is a C&S Detective Special 209.

This Weapon also dubbed as the "Proxy Killer" can be loaded with the FP bullets that have the lethal dosis of Amrita Disablers.

The design and name of this weapon is in homage to Rick Deckard's pistol (the LAPD 2019 Blaster) that was used by Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) in the original Blade Runner movie, to hunt down Replicants. Note: Several other characters are seen handling Deckard's gun at times, notably Rachel.

Train Stations

Romdeau Train Station System Map can be seen on Meditatio III, while Re-L Mayer tries to pinpoint the exact location of Vincent Law.

On the left page of her journal, a page with a time table can be seen. This kind of document is surely a copy of the ones published by the New York Transit Authority establishing the timetable of the trains of a given station. The one that's on the journal mentions "Stillwell Avenue" on "Brooklyn"

This is a 1955 exemplar

Also, on Meditatio I, on one of Romdeaus Train Station, a list of British location names can be seen on the board

DEPARTURE EXPRESS I Bromsgrove EXPRESS II Leamington SPA EXPRESS III Gatwick? LOCAL TRAIN IV Chepstow LOCAL TRAIN V Swansea EXPRESS III Leamington SPA LOCAL TRAIN VII Chippenham LOCAL TRAIN VIII Bromsgrove

Note: According to an apocryphal interview with Jonathan Klein, co-founder of production company New Generation Pictures, Romdeau was named Romdo to be reminiscent of London:

(JK) We were told to spell it "Romdo" by the Japanese producers. What isn't really explained in the show (although hinted at) is where these domed cities' names come from. What we were told is that they're re-interpretations of names of long-gone old Earth cities. So Mosk was supposed to be Moscow and Romdo was supposed to be London. I can't say why it was spelled "Romdeau" in the animation other than guess whoever animated the text went with the most logical spelling of the city, not realizing where the source of the name was supposed to come from.

The subtle similitude in Japanese allows space to that speculation.

ロムド Romudo/RomDeau/Rondo

ロンドン London

Navigation Map

The Map that Vincent uses on Meditatio VIII to get to Mosk dome is a collage of distinct maps, including a Chart of the Mountains nearby the Lake Geneva made on the XVIII century.

Some of the geografical features on the original map are renamed on the series:

Lake Geneva it's replaced by the Sea of Sleep, Geneva by Romdeau, and Mosq is placed on an iterated Aiguille d'Argentiere a few thousand miles southeast (contradicting the fact that the were traveling north).

So, the coastline it's safe to asume it was created for the show, and it's merely an artistic illustration of the journey. I have serious doubts that the creators intended to place the event of the series in meticulously placed cities, and I believe that the closer they tried was to play with names and cultural references to give the vibe of being in the European continent.

CITY OF THE SUN

Among the most peculia

La città del Sole o The City of the Sun is philosophical utopianist work by the Italian Dominican philosopher Tommaso Campanella, written in 1602. The City of the Sun described an ideal city inspired by Plato's Republic and the description of Atlantis in his Timaeus.

Structurally the city is protected by seven concentric ring walls, in reference to the seven astrological bodies known at the moment. Major emplacements of the city ass the walls celebrate major figures and achievements of mankind, similarly to Romdeau that names avenues, parks and streets as major political figures and philosophers of Western culture.

Inside the city everything is controlled for the collective good, with a high degree of surveillance and regulation. Similarly, Romdeau in Ergo Proxy is a highly monitored city where citizens' lives are managed by the government and the central computer system known as the "Collective", that rule the "Administrative Bureau.". Matters such as privacy are virtually obsolete, under these regimes.

Romdeau is a more dystopic realization of the toll of such an ostracism and over-regulated system, where even the reproduction is carried by an artificial Womb System.

The Design of the Domed City is also reminiscent to the old engravings of the Sun City.

SHAMPOO PLANET & LIFE AFTER GOD

The title of Meditatio XVIII and Meditatio XXI seem to be referencing two novels by Douglas Coupland: Life After God and Shampoo Planet.

Life After God, published in 1994, is a collection of short stories and reflections that wrestle with the idea of living in a secular, post-religious world. Coupland dives into the emotional and existential drift of a generation raised without traditional spiritual frameworks, blending nostalgia, alienation, and a quiet yearning for something bigger. It’s raw and introspective, often feeling like a personal confession wrapped in fiction.

Shampoo Planet, from 1992, takes a different tone. It’s a novel about Tyler Johnson, a young, ambitious guy navigating the materialistic, consumer-driven early '90s. It’s sharper and more satirical, poking at the absurdity of corporate culture, globalization, and the obsession with branding—shampoo being a recurring symbol of superficial perfection. Yet, beneath the wit, there’s a tension between youthful optimism and the creeping cynicism of adulthood.

MEDITATIO XXII: פלפול

Meditatio XXII "Bind (Bilbul)," is the penultimate episode of Ergo Proxy, a 2006 cyberpunk anime directed by Shūkō Murase and written by Dai Sato. The title "Bilbul" comes from the Hebrew word בִּלְבּוּל, meaning "confusion" or "bewilderment. And considering the revelations and dramatic turn of the plot in this episode, is perhaps the most appropriate name for the episode.

Bilbul in the hebrew context is a method of studying the Talmud through intense textual analysis in attempts to either explain conceptual differences between various halakhic rulings or to reconcile any apparent contradictions presented from various readings of different texts.

[caspercryptid]

I am on the edge of my seat to see what happens next in your vampire ford/Billford fic! Really awesome work <3

Thank you <3 Ask and ye shall receive. << Part 1 < Part 2 Requests still open, all request fills I've finished are posted saturday, love and light. Remember you're free to request follow ups since this is just gonna keep going and going and going. ____

Bill wasn't quite sure how he felt about fear.

Pain, now. Pain was hilarious. He was grateful even in his new body that his pain sensors seemed to be wired to his pleasure sensors. That was probably a design flaw, but it was one he was very happy with. He considered it jailbreaking his fleshsack to do more fun stuff with it outside the manufacturer's guidelines.

Fear had some perks-- it was...fun? pleasurable? He wasn't sure how to describe it. It made everything more intense. He knew that was normal, for mortals, that their dating television shows deliberately took people on high stakes adventures to make them fall in love faster. but he didn't think he was falling in love. That was a much simpler emotion, in some ways. Sure, okay. Maybe he was in love with Ford Pines.

Currently, though. he was mostly just. terrified of him.

He wasn't quite sure what it was about Ford that was setting his (boring, flat tipped) teeth on edge. He seemed much the same as always, except for the addition of the teeth. He's still clever, enthusiastic, always scratching in his notepad. Since they've gotten into the ship he's explained twelve different things completely unnecessarily. Same old Ford. He's still--

It clicks as Bill's watching Ford step back from a panel and watch the sky pass by. Ford is still. Ford isn't pacing, twitching, fidgeting. Ford is moving with a casual cold confidence. There's no hesitation. Every single movement he makes is precise and deliberate, not once since they've stepped into the ship has Ford reached for something and missed because he was looking somewhere else.

uh-oh.

There's something....wrong. About this. Maybe it's just the uncanny valley of someone he knows as well as he knows himself being different. He'd settled in Ford's mind, watched from behind his eyes. He knew Ford's movements perfectly. He had him mapped out like the stars. But not this Ford. This was a layering of something on top of the man he knew, the image just slightly distorted.

Ford catches him staring and tips his head a little.

"Are you alright?" He asks. "Never better!" Bill says, "Nowhere else in the galaxy I'd rather be than heading home."

He tries not to think about how true that is.

Ford smiles as he turns his head back towards the dials, adjusting them and setting in a destination. Bill's almost embarrassed that he has no idea how the navigation system of this machine works, but he thinks even if he did he'd be too busy watching Ford's fingers to pay much attention.

He's missed those hands. There was no one else's like them. Sure, other people might have that birth defect, but Ford's hands-- the strength of them, where his callouses are--

Bill gets a little queasy. Would Ford's hands have changed? It shouldn't matter, Ford would probably never touch him again. But somehow it did.

"Are you tired?" Ford asks, tone casual.

Bill realizes that he is-- stupid flesh sack weaknesses again. he wonders how Ford could tell-- he's still looking at the controls and not at Bill. He ought to find it creepy, but somehow it's just charming.

Bill opens his mouth to lie, but a yawn catches him off guard. Ford snorts. "There it is," He says. "We'll be travelling quite a while, you should get some rest."

"--Yeah," bill says, "I probably should." "I'm afraid there's only one room, but I don't use it much," Ford says, turning away from the controls and leading bill down the hallway-- his boots making deliberately-paced taps on the metal floors.

Bill is too caught up in thinking about sleeping in Ford's bed to mock him for timing his steps. It'd been so long-- The door to the room opens-- it smells like him in here, still, faint but distinct, and Bill climbs right into the bed. "--take your shoes off," Ford says, sounding amused. "--right, yep, sorry," Bill says, reminding himself. normal human. "Goodnight," Ford says, and the door closes before bill can say it back. The silence is heavy-- the door must really seal sounds, because Bill can't even hear Ford walk away.

He pulls off his boots, presses his face into the pillow. Humiliatingly, he's asleep in seconds. the last thing he hears is the ship's controls clicking.

strange, he thinks, but he can't put a finger on why before sleep claims him again.

[oakridgeford]

2025 Ford Maverick Review, Pricing, and Specs

The 2025 Ford Maverick is a compact truck with a hybrid powertrain and impressive fuel economy. It delivers a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds.

Walkthrough Review

The 2025 Ford Maverick offers a versatile, comfortable interior to meet work and leisure needs. Its cabin includes durable materials and user-friendly technology, such as an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen, available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ample storage options. The Maverick also features customizable space with flexible rear seating and a 6.5-foot bed, providing room for passengers and gear.

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The 2025 Ford Maverick delivers exceptional performance with available All-Wheel Drive, ensuring confidence in challenging conditions. Its standard 2.5L hybrid engine excels in stop-and-go traffic, slippery roads, and towing. The Maverick Tremor features rugged tech and design for enhanced off-road capability, making it ready for adventurous terrain and tough environments.

Technology

The 2025 Ford Maverick has advanced technology features to enhance convenience and connectivity. Its 8-inch touchscreen features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration. Available upgrades include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite, and an optional FordPass connectivity system, enabling remote vehicle access and management. For added convenience, the Maverick offers multiple USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and available navigation options, ensuring you stay connected on every drive.

CONTACT US

Visit us at Oakridge Ford to explore this innovative truck and learn more about its features, performance, and pricing. Check out the 2025 Ford Maverick review or explore the Ford Maverick price and Ford Maverick mpg. Whether you're interested in the Ford Maverick for sale or want more information, we're your trusted Ford dealership near me. Contact us today and find your perfect Maverick truck!

[kayhanaudio2]

Kayhan Audio Car Stereo with SatNav for Ford FGX Version 6 features an 8-inch touchscreen display, enhancing your vehicle's interior with a sleek, modern look. It offers GPS navigation with real-time traffic updates, along with Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless media streaming, hands-free calling, and app access. Its high-resolution display and intuitive interface provide a convenient and stylish upgrade for your driving experience. Website:

https://kayhanaudio.com.au/product/car-stereo-with-satnav-for-ford-fg-x-version-6-8-inch/

[missnellcollins]

hi! could I please request a harrison x reader fic where the reader is a journalist and is interviewing and photographing him at his home and he’s being flirty and all that good stuff 🥹 preferably early 80s indy era harrison but whatever youd like, thank you!

ofc! this was so cute!

mr. ford

harrison ford x journalist!reader

note: i love harrison so much. that’s all.

were you nervous? yes, 100%.  it’s not everyday you have a chance to interview the harrison ford in his own home. 

this was a big moment for you and for your career. you could not screw this up. you’d been assigned this project with very specific requirements, and had emailed ford’s manager, hoping that harrison would take up the offer, considering all the rumors you’d heard about the man and interviews. 

but he seemed delighted. or at least that’s what his manager said. he gave you a specific date and time when the actor would be at home and free, sending you his address two days before the interview was to take place. 

as you drove to the address, every now and again glancing at the navigation system, you felt your stomach churn anxiously as it dawned upon you what you were going to do. 

you were about to interview harrison ford. the harrison ford, the man who has played two of the most iconic characters in movie history. 

and you were very much a fan. you’d seen all of the star wars movies in theaters and the two indiana jones films as well. and he was absolutely amazing in both.

and knowing you’d be interviewing him, you needed to keep your cool. how embarrassing would it be to have a professional journalist be freaking out over such a star? 

it wasn’t long before you arrived. you parked along the side of the road in front of the actor’s house. you sat in the vehicle for a moment, willing yourself to move, growing more anxious by the minute. 

only when you saw the front door open did you dare to open your door. 

“hello!” a deep voice called, and it was him. harrison ford. standing just a few feet away. was your mind playing tricks on you, or did he seem more handsome in person? 

“hi!” you responded, retrieving your bag from the passenger seat that contained your notebook and your camera. 

“you’re the journalist, right?” you nodded, “yes, mr. ford.” you said, closing the door behind you as you approached the man who was currently walking up the driveway. “please, harrison is fine.” he assured as you stood before him. the man extended a hand forward, “it’s a pleasure to meet you miss…”

“(l/n). (f/n) (l/n).” you took his hand, giving it a firm shake as he sent you a smile, “beautiful

name.” he complimented, and you glanced away bashfully, refusing to meet those hazel eyes. 

“thank you.” the man let go of your hand before beckoning you towards the front door, “well, why don’t we get you settled inside so we can get started?”

“that would be wonderful.”

— — —

harrison’s home was very different then you expected it to be. it was more.. homey. but, it was nice. he led you to the sitting room, gesturing to the large couch, “you can take a seat over there, or wherever you like, it doesn’t really matter to me.” you sat upon the couch, setting your bag beside you. 

“can i get you anything? water, wine?” you shook your head, “i’m alright, thank you.” harrison nodded before taking a seat in the recliner across from you. 

you retrieved your notebook and pen from the bag, flipping it open to a fresh page. you cleared your throat, “i just wanted to give a little run through of how this is going to go, if that’s alright with you?”

the man remained quiet, his hazel eyes locked on you. you swallowed thickly, feeling your nerves return, “uh.. mr. ford? is that alright with you?” 

he blinked, before nodding, “yes, sorry, i was just distracted.” 

“okay. well, i understand that you usually get the same questions about your roles, preferably han solo and indiana jones. but for this, i wanted it to go your way. what do you want to discuss, what do you want to tell the people?” 

he smiled, a real genuine smile. “that sounds fantastic.” 

the interview went smoothly, and you learned so much about the man. many of what he said was personal, and you assured that you’d keep that off the record and only write about what he’d said about his career. 

it no longer felt like a professional interview, but instead a conversation amongst two friends. 

“what about you?” he said suddenly. you furrowed your brows, “what about me?” 

“well, i’ve been talking about myself this whole time, what about you?” 

you smiled softly, “i’m not the one being interviewed.” “we’ll see about that.” before you could ask what he met, the man reached over, taking the notebook from your hands before flipping to a new page. he flashed you a smile, “now, tell me about you. i’ll make sure any personal information is off the record.” he said with a wink. 

you couldn’t help but laugh. “oh god, well, i’m an aspiring journalist. i.. um.. i like reading. i suppose that’s where the inspiration to be a journalist started-“

“and if you don’t mind my asking, are you a single woman, miss (l/n)?” you were surprised, feeling your face flush, “why? wanna take me out on a date?” you asked, a mischievous smile on your lips.

harrison shrugged, “maybe. would you be interested?” you couldn’t believe it. “wait-are serious?” you questioned, your voice soft. he nodded, “of course i am. that is, if you want too of course. i wouldn’t want to force you.” 

you couldn’t believe it. the harrison ford, a man who you’d admired for quite some time, was asking you out on a date?

was this real life?

or just a fantasy?

harrison tilted his head slightly, giving you a smile, “so what do ya say, darling? can i take you out? dinner?” 

you hesitated before beaming brightly, “yes. yes you can, mr. ford.” 

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Anne D’Innocenzio

Published: Nov 26, 2025

NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, is rolling back its diversity, equity and inclusion policies, joining a growing list of major corporations that have done the same after coming under attack by conservative activists.

The changes, confirmed by Walmart on Monday, are sweeping and include everything from not renewing a five-year commitment for an equity racial center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd, to pulling out of a prominent gay rights index. And when it comes to race or gender, Walmart won’t be giving priority treatment to suppliers.

Walmart’s moves underscore the increasing pressure faced by corporate America as it continues to navigate the fallout from the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023 ending affirmative action in college admissions. Emboldened by that decision, conservative groups have filed lawsuits making similar arguments about corporations, targeting workplace initiatives such as diversity programs and hiring practices that prioritize historically marginalized groups.

Separately, conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on the social media platform X. Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including Ford, Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s and Tractor Supply.

But Walmart, which employs 1.6 million workers in the U.S., is the largest one to do so.

“This is the biggest win yet for our movement to end wokeness in corporate America,” Starbuck wrote on X, adding that he had been in conversation with Walmart.

Walmart confirmed to The Associated Press that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don’t feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. That would include chest binders intended for youth who are going through a gender change, the company said.

The Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer will also be reviewing grants to Pride events to make sure it is not financially supporting sexualized content that may be unsuitable for kids. For example, the company wants to makes sure a family pavilion is not next to a drag show at a Pride event, the company said.

Additionally, Walmart will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts. The company said it didn’t have quotas and will not do so going forward. It won’t be gathering demographic data when determining financing eligibility for those grants.

Walmart also said it wouldn’t renew a racial equity center that was established through a five-year, $100 million philanthropic commitment from the company with a mandate to, according to its website, “address the root causes of gaps in outcomes experienced by Black and African American people in education, health, finance and criminal justice systems.”

And it would stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees.

“We’ve been on a journey and know we aren’t perfect, but every decision comes from a place of wanting to foster a sense of belonging, to open doors to opportunities for all our associates, customers and suppliers and to be a Walmart for everyone,” the company said in a statement.

The changes come soon after an election win by former President Donald Trump, who has criticized DEI initiatives and surrounded himself with conservatives who hold similar views, including his former adviser Stephen Miller, who leads a group called America First Legal that has challenged corporate DEI policies. Trump named Miller to be the deputy chief of policy in his new administration.

A Walmart spokesperson said some of its policy changes have been in progress for a while. For example, it has been moving away from using the word DEI in job titles and communications and started to use the word “belonging.” It also started making changes to its supplier program in the aftermath of the Supreme Court affirmative action ruling.

Some have been urging companies to stick with their DEI policies. Last month, a group of Democrats in Congress appealed to the leaders of the Fortune 1000, saying that DEI efforts give everyone a fair chance at achieving the American dream.

--

==

Excellent news. As the big ones go, so too will the smaller ones.

It's so weird that "don't discriminate based on skin color," "don't discriminate based on sex," and "don't give kids porn" are being called "conservative" values. Five minutes ago, these were obvious and uncontroversial liberal values.

What this is, is secularism. That your beliefs are for you and not me. You don't get to impose your beliefs onto others. If you subscribe to the beliefs of the woke cult, that's fine and your business. But you don't get to force others to believe them, pretend to believe them, or make them comply with them. Any more than a Xian can force others to pray, or a Muslim can demand ham and bacon be removed from the company cafeteria.

Which means that within the context of a company, the company itself has and pushes no particular beliefs. Because it leaves people the hell alone.

[whiteoakford]

Compare 2025 Ford Escape vs. 2025 Ford Explorer

Choosing between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Ford Escape can be tough. Both SUVs offer unique strengths in design, performance, technology, and safety features, appealing to different types of drivers. Whether you're seeking a spacious family SUV or a versatile compact option, this detailed comparison will help you decide which one is the right fit.

2025 Ford Explorer Design

The 2025 Ford Explorer stands out with its bold, rugged design and commanding road presence. With a larger body, the Explorer is ideal for families or those needing extra cargo space. Its modern grille, LED headlights, and sleek lines give it an upscale yet tough look. Inside, the Explorer provides generous seating for up to seven passengers across three rows, ensuring ample legroom and comfort.

2025 Ford Escape Design

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Escape takes a sportier, more compact approach. The Escape's design is aerodynamic and modern, perfect for city driving or small families. It features a clean exterior with sharp contours and a sleek front fascia. Inside, the Escape offers a refined cabin with seating for five and versatile cargo space, making it practical for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

Performance

The 2025 Ford Explorer offers powerful performance options for those who love driving confidently. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine delivers 300 horsepower, perfect for smooth highway cruising. For those who crave even more power, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, available in the ST and Platinum trims, delivers an impressive 400 horsepower, making it one of the strongest options in its class. With standard 4WD on most trims, the Explorer is ready for Canadian winters and off-road adventures. Fuel efficiency remains competitive for a midsize SUV, with the base engine achieving approximately 11.7 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 L/100 km on the highway.

On the other hand, the 2025 Ford Escape emphasizes fuel efficiency and versatility, making it perfect for daily drivers. The standard 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 engine balances power and efficiency with a fuel economy of 9.2 L/100 km city and 7.4 L/100 km highway. The 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 engine provides extra punch while maintaining solid fuel economy for those looking for more performance. The Escape shines with its hybrid options, including a 2.5L iVCT Hybrid and a Plug-In Hybrid variant, which allow drivers to reduce fuel costs and their carbon footprint. The Plug-In Hybrid even offers electric-only driving for short commutes.

Technology Features

Both the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Ford Escape come packed with advanced technology to keep you connected and entertained on the go. The 2025 Ford Explorer boasts a spacious, tech-forward interior with a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system available in higher trims. The system features SYNC 4, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice-activated navigation, ensuring seamless connectivity. Features like the Bang & Olufsen premium audio system and wireless charging enhance the driving experience. FordPass Connect allows remote vehicle access, including start, lock/unlock, and vehicle status checks.

The 2025 Ford Escape is equally equipped with technology but caters to a compact SUV audience. It includes a standard 8-inch touchscreen, with a larger 13.2-inch display available on higher trims. SYNC 4 is standard, providing intuitive controls, smartphone integration, and cloud-based navigation. The Escape offers a head-up display in select trims, keeping key information within your line of sight. Like the Explorer, the Escape features FordPass Connect for remote access and convenience.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in both the Ford Explorer and Ford Escape. Each SUV comes equipped with Ford's advanced Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies. The 2025 Ford Explorer includes Pre-Collision assistance with Automatic Emergency Brakes, Blind Spot Monitoring, an ane-keeping System, and an ear View Camera. For added safety, the Explorer offers Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Evasive Steering Assist, and Reverse Brake Assist in higher trims. With its robust frame and comprehensive safety technology, the Explorer provides peace of mind for families on long road trips or daily commutes.

Similarly, the 2025 Ford Escape includes the Ford Co-Pilot360™ system across all trims. Standard features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane-Keeping Assist. Higher trims offer Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Parking Sensors, and a 360-degree camera for added awareness. The Escape's compact size makes it particularly easy to maneuver in tight spaces, adding an extra layer of convenience and safety in city driving.

FAQs

What are the key engine options for the 2025 Ford Escape? The Escape offers a 1.5L EcoBoost I-3, a 2.0L EcoBoost I-4, a 2.5L Hybrid, and a 2.5L Plug-In Hybrid engine.

What are the engine options for the 2025 Ford Explorer? The Explorer features a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine.

What is the cargo space difference between the Explorer and the Escape? The Ford Explorer offers up to 2,486 litres of cargo space, while the Ford Escape provides up to 1,851 litres with the rear seats folded.

Contact Us

Still unsure which SUV suits you best? Experience the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Ford Escape at Whiteoak Ford. As your trusted Ford dealership near me, we'll help you explore available options, trims, and features. Whether looking for the perfect Ford Escape for sale or considering the latest Ford Explorer price, our team is here to assist you. Visit us today to test drive your next SUV and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

[thereareeyesinsidethetrees]

ford’s cohost in our system and the line between cool intriguing animation abt Bill and harrowing reminder of horrors past when consuming GF media is so thin. It’s a super relatable struggle, we also feel silly sometimes bc it feels like some versions of him are More Acceptable than others, so we won’t stress out if the plush we made of him for our friend is sitting unfinished, staring at us on our desk (tho we do put it away when he fronts just so he relaxes), but certain interpretations are hard to touch with a ten foot pole. Our point is, Godspeed on navigating it lol, maybe characterizing different “versions” of him as they relate to ae can help make that distinction clearer for ae so ae can still enjoy cool animations

glad to know the ‘ford lives in our brain and thus media with bill is hard to navigate’ thing isn’t just us (lighthearted)

that’s a good suggestion! ae think we’ll try that, see if it can help. something else we’ve considered is making a triangle character that’s just vastly different from him…this seems like a good time to give that a shot, too. thank you, anon :]

[carsthatnevermadeitetc]

 Ford Econoline Chicane Concept,1996. A design study for a superbike racing team support vehicle, the Chicane was based on an E-350 powered by Ford's then-new 265hp, 6.8-litre V-10. The interior featured 4 captain's chairs, a rear-seat VCR player, and Siemens TetraStar navigation system. The rear compartment was separated from the main cabin by a bulkhead and was fitted with a fold-out workbench and tool chest

[nikjmiles]

Conquer the Wild: America's Top 4x4 Vehicles Gear Up for Adventure! from Our Auto Expert on Vimeo.

In the heart of America's rugged landscapes, a new breed of 4x4 vehicles is making headlines, promising to take your adventures off the beaten path to the next level. With the market more crowded than ever, discerning which vehicle will serve as your next expedition ally can be as challenging as the terrains you aim to conquer. Today, we delve into the world of the most sought-after 4x4s, from the iconic designs of the Land Rover Defender to the family-centric Jeep Grand Cherokee, each boasting features that set them apart in a fiercely competitive arena.

After a hiatus that left enthusiasts yearning, the 2024 Ford Bronco has roared back onto the scene, not just to stir nostalgia but to assert its dominance with a starting price of $41,025. This isn't merely a comeback; it's a declaration of war against the Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a Bronco Raptor variant that houses a 400-hp twin-turbo V-6 engine, ready to tackle any challenge thrown its way.

Then there's the 2024 Land Rover Defender, which commands attention not just with its starting price of $57,875 but with a design that nods respectfully to its predecessors while embracing the future. Beneath its stylish exterior lies a 518-hp supercharged V-8 engine, capable of launching the Defender to 60 mph in an astonishing 4.4 seconds, making it a potent mix of heritage and high performance.

For families who live for the thrill of exploration without sacrificing comfort, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee emerges as the front-runner. With a base price of $41,330 and a 293-hp V-6 engine, it promises a blend of overlanding capability and everyday utility, ensuring that every trip is memorable.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler, priced from $33,990, continues to uphold its legacy as the quintessential off-roader. Factory-equipped to navigate through almost any terrain and updated to offer modern comforts, the Wrangler demonstrates that practicality and adventure can go hand in hand.

Not to be overlooked, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner, with a starting price of $41,350, maintains its stronghold on reliability in the 4x4 segment. Its longstanding presence since 2009, coupled with a massive fanbase and robust aftermarket support, cements its reputation as a durable companion for the long haul.

For those seeking an all-encompassing solution, the Chevrolet Tahoe starts at $56,095 and doesn't disappoint. It merges the toughness of a truck-like chassis with a genuine four-wheel drive system, offering the capability to tow over 8,000 pounds and accommodate up to nine passengers, making it the epitome of versatility.

As we explore these titans of the 4x4 world, it becomes evident that each vehicle offers a unique proposition. From the style and power of the Land Rover Defender to the unmatched versatility of the Chevrolet Tahoe, and the family-friendly Jeep Grand Cherokee, the market is teeming with options that cater to every adventurer's needs.

In the quest for the perfect 4x4 companion, these vehicles are not just tools but partners in adventure, designed to meet the demands of both the untamed wilderness and the urban jungle. With the landscape of 4x4 SUVs richer and more diverse than ever, finding your ideal match means embarking on an adventure in itself. May your journey lead you to the 4x4 that not only drives you forward but inspires your next unforgettable expedition.