#compact microphone system

[ausetkmt]

How Black women shaped Tim Walz’s politics after the death of George Floyd

From inside Minnesota’s executive mansion, Gov. Tim Walz could hear the grieving woman’s bellows..

Toshira Garraway’s voice quavered as she spoke to the hundreds gathered outside the residence in St. Paul. It was a sunny Monday in June 2020, just days after George Floyd had been murdered in Minneapolis.

Protesters across the world had been shouting Floyd’s name, but Garraway and other speakers — almost all Black women — were invoking the names of men who hadn’t garnered as much attention after they died in encounters with Minnesota law enforcement. Hardel. Kobe. Justin.

The lifeless body of Justin Teigen, Garraway’s boyfriend, had been found in a recycling bin in 2009. Police had said they were chasing Teigen and lost track of him when he hid in a dumpster, where he remained when the trash was compacted. Garraway was convinced police had killed him.

“They didn’t throw him in the river! They didn’t throw him in the woods!” Garraway shouted. “They threw him in the trash! That’s what they think of our people.”

“I could hear her pain,” Walz recalled in a 2021 interview with a Washington Post reporter. Walz, who is now the Democratic nominee for vice president, stepped outside the residence for a closer listen.

When Garraway heard that Walz had joined the crowd, she stepped away from the microphone to meet him. She asked for his cellphone number.

“I had been calling and writing the governor and attorney general for years,” she recalled telling him. “I want you to meet with our families.”

He promised he would.

At the most critical juncture in Walz’s tenure as governor, with the world pointing to his state as an example of gross injustice, he found insights and counsel from Garraway and a group of Black women who pleaded with him to do more to address systemic racism.

This story is based on years of interviews with Walz and those women, starting 11 months after Floyd’s death as part of research for a book on Floyd’s life and legacy.

Walz’s last interview was in May, two months before he was selected as the running mate of Vice President Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to be the Democratic nominee for president. During the discussions, Walz offered the most expansive, personal accounts he has ever provided about how Floyd’s murder changed his worldview — and about the women who helped shape it.

The women cried with him, prodded him, prayed with him. They admired his ability to listen without interrupting them, and appreciated the get-well cards he sent when they were sick. When it comes to supporting a Black woman who is already facing racist attacks in her bid for the presidency, they think Walz is ready.

But even more than his empathy, the women relished the opportunity to help Walz craft legislation that specifically addressed their concerns. That’s when the relationship became more difficult.

“He makes political calculations in terms of where he’s going to put his energy and spend down political capital, which any responsible person or elected official will do,” said Nekima Levy Armstrong, a former head of the Minneapolis chapter of the NAACP. “But because of his nature, you always have in the back of your mind that he will go the extra mile. … That’s when you get disappointed.”

Beyond Walz’s reputation as a folksy liberal, likely to be on display when he speaks Wednesday at the Democratic National Convention, the women saw a politician trying to navigate uncertain terrain. The national zest for police reform would eventually slow, and Walz’s national profile would begin to soar. And now, some in the group say he has lost interest in them.

Walz declined to comment for this article, but a spokeswoman wrote that Walz “deeply values the friendships, what he’s been able to learn from them, and the reforms they worked together to pass. He continues to meet with them and looks forward to their continued work together to improve Minnesota.”

Garraway has not heard from Walz in more than a year. When friends started texting about his becoming Harris’s running mate, she didn’t fully know what to say.

“I don’t want to bash the man, but all I can do is speak from my heart, and I’m conflicted,” Garraway said. “I cannot say that empathy was not there. But, as time went on and this was no longer the headlining topic, we became less and less important. Our families are pushed to the side and, basically, ignored. It is painful and hurtful.”

Philando Castile's mother, Valerie, holds flowers during a demonstration outside the governor's home in St. Paul on July 7, 2016.

Before Floyd’s death, Walz had been warned about the insidious threat of racism in Minnesota.

The prediction came from Valerie Castile, whose son Philando had been shot and killed at a traffic stop in a suburb of St. Paul in 2016. “Mark my word, if it keeps on going in this direction, something really bad is going to happen,” Castile recalled telling him.

“That was back in 2017,” she said.

At the time, Walz was serving in Congress and preparing a bid for governor. She told him she had dedicated her life to finding a way to bring honor to her son’s name. She spoke about Philando’s generous spirit — the school cafeteria worker would dig into his own pocket to help a student who couldn’t afford lunch.

And then, Castile quizzed Walz on why he thought Black people disproportionately die at the hands of police.

“I’m going to be brutally honest with you,” Castile recalled telling him. “We know it’s a racist factor that’s the underlying problem within law enforcement.”

The two formed a tight bond, calling themselves “friends.” Walz said her honesty showed him how “the basic joys of life are always clouded by” racism, and illuminated “the day-to-day, year-after-year systemic issues and microaggressions that people endure.”

“It just permeates everything,” he told The Post.

Walz, who grew up in Nebraska and moved to rural Minnesota as an adult, said he knew he had a blind spot when it came to the Black experience, “being a middle-aged White guy [from] a town of 300 … with no people of color.” In Minnesota, where only 7 percent of the population is Black, politicians often note how easy it can be to miss the struggles of the African American community. So many of the state’s bragging points — its high incomes, its healthy residents, its high-performing students — disguise some of the country’s widest disparities in wealth, life expectancy and education between Blacks and Whites.

After Walz became governor in 2019, Black lawmakers and activists said, he and his wife engaged with Black communities immediately. Walz said that they were eager to learn — and that they were surprised by what they discovered.

During one event, a Black woman told him she had moved to Duluth from Arkansas. Compared with racism in the Deep South, she said, she found Minnesota’s to be “quieter — but meaner.”

On another occasion, Levy Armstrong, the former NAACP official, told him that state lawmakers had a history of “admiring the problem” — acknowledging that disparities existed but not working hard enough to eradicate them.

Then a police officer knelt on Floyd’s neck in May 2020.

As video of the brutal incident spread, Walz reached out to Castile.

“What do you think they’re going to do?” she recalled Walz asking her.

“You better get ready,” Castile said. “They’re about to tear this motherf---er up.”

Castile was right. Although most of the protests were peaceful, large businesses were looted, windows were smashed and a police station was set aflame.

Not long afterward, the Floyd family asked Walz to remove the county attorney from the investigation of the killing. Walz agreed to assign Keith Ellison, the state’s attorney general, who had a history of working against police brutality. Walz told The Post that he was thinking of Castile when he made the decision.

“She was adamant, and groups of folks who had talked to me even before George Floyd [died] believed that we needed to have an independent prosecutor’s office,” Walz said. “That there’s just too close a connection between the police and the county attorneys.”

Walz, center, joins protesters in front of the Minnesota Governor's Residence on June 1, 2020, after the murder of George Floyd.

A few weeks after Walz spoke with the Floyds, he met with Garraway and the other women on a Zoom call.

Garraway spoke again about her boyfriend, referring to his death as the “2009 version of Emmett Till.”

The police account of the events had always seemed fantastical to her. But in 2009, there were no body cameras or Black Lives Matter movement — and few people took her seriously. After three years, only one lawyer said he would be interested in taking the case. By then, it was too late — the state had a three-year statute of limitations for investigating officers.

Amity Dimock told Walz the story of her autistic son, Kobe Dimock-Heisler, who was killed in 2019 by police during a wellness check. Police said Kobe had lunged at them with a knife, but Amity said she believed the officers reacted so quickly because they were ill-equipped to deal with mental illness.

Del Shea Perry spoke of her son Hardel Sherrell, who died in a jail cell in 2018. Officers ignored Sherrell when he said he wasn’t feeling well. Security camera footage over eight days captured him falling hard off a bed, going limp and dying in a pool of his own waste, never receiving medical attention.

As the women recounted their pain, Walz’s eyes welled with tears. He told The Post that he, like many in the state, needed to do more soul-searching on why it was so easy to look past the trauma of racism that Castile assured him existed.

“This is a great state if you’re White, not so much if you’re not,” Walz later recalled thinking. “And that pains me, but it has to be said. And it’s the truth.”

Amity Dimock, right, is comforted by another woman during a demonstration outside the Governor's Residence on June 6, 2020.

After the conversations with the women, Walz said he went back to his staff and asked, “What can we do? What can we change?”

They encouraged the women to work with racial justice organizations to craft legislation, and by 2021, more than a dozen police reform bills had been introduced. Some followed national trends. They asked for the state legislature to limit the use of chokeholds and no-knock warrants. They asked that the state allow police officers to be sued directly for actions taken in the line of duty, ending a practice known as “qualified immunity” that shielded them.

Other bills were directly inspired by the women’s stories. One would have ended the statute of limitations for wrongful-death suits related to police killings — potentially giving Garraway the chance to find out what had happened to Justin. Another would have referred 911 calls to mental health crisis teams when appropriate — which Dimock thought could have saved Kobe’s life. A third would have mandated wellness checks in jails — which could have led to an intervention for Hardel.

The women set out for the State Capitol to lobby lawmakers, but struggled to gain traction. About a year after Floyd’s death, conservatives were nervous that such measures might deplete the morale of police departments, which were losing officers.

“After Minneapolis started burning, the Republicans immediately went to blaming Governor Walz and Mayor [Jacob] Frey, and [saying] the Democrats will let the city burn down,” said Jeffrey Hayden, who was a Democratic state senator. Hayden said Republicans appeared hesitant to act, arguing that Floyd’s death had been “an isolated incident.”

The women said they found it difficult to find advocates even among rural Democrats, who they said would stare at them with blank faces. They asked the governor to leverage his authority, and he tried at first. He threatened to keep the legislative session open until lawmakers passed police reform, and he negotiated with Republicans, who were in control of the state’s House.

Del Shea Perry cries as she marches with demonstrators near the Governor's Residence on June 6, 2020. Beside her is a photo of son Hardel Sherrell.

The legislature agreed to pass a bill in honor of Sharell, to make changes to police training and to limit the use of chokeholds. Walz used executive action to add $15 million for violence-prevention programs, and then required that police provide body-camera footage to families within five days of incidents involving a death. But the legislature rejected the toughest measures, such as strengthening civilian oversight of police departments and ending qualified immunity.

And the measure to lift the statute of limitations also failed, meaning there would be no chance to get to the truth of what happened to Garraway’s boyfriend.

On the last day of the session, Garraway and the other women held a news conference. She pleaded with her new friend, the governor, to try to do more.

“You listen to our stories. You watch us break down. You watch us cry,” she said. “How can you make a deal to say this is okay?”

A few months after the legislation failed, Walz put his disappointment plainly: “I feel like I failed Toshira.”

Walz told The Post back then that he had learned that White men like him wanted to probe the details while Black women like Garraway sought swift action because the lives of their families were at stake.

“This is a complex issue. It’s nuanced,” Walz said. “But in the midst of this are people who say, ‘I don’t have time for nuance.’”

He wondered if the country needed a truth and reconciliation commission — like the one in post-apartheid South Africa — that would allow people to truly listen to the stories of pain and exploitation he had heard.

After the 2021 legislative session, Walz said he felt the chance to have an honest conversation about racism in America — and then work to fix it — had probably passed him by. He worried that, between the pandemic, the protests and the unraveling of the great American reckoning on race, the country was not “healing.”

“I don’t know if we’ll get another shot at it,” Walz said. “I’m worried about this. … I’m worried [about what] I’m seeing at the national level. I’m seeing our democracy under threat, and I’m seeing the community here that’s losing faith.”

Back then, he also recognized how not addressing the problem would mar his political legacy.

“One way or another, I will be associated with this,” Walz said.

Valerie Castile speaks at a Minneapolis rally on June 16, 2023, after the release of a U.S. Justice Department investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department.

Valerie Castile had not lost faith.

After a jury in 2017 acquitted the police officer who killed Philando, she spent years seeking another route to honor her son’s legacy.

She started a foundation to clear the balances of grade-school students who couldn’t afford to pay for school meals, then began pushing the state legislature to make breakfast and lunch free for all students. In 2023, with a Democratic majority in all three chambers, the bill passed.

It became one of Walz’s signature pieces of legislation, and the photo of children hugging him after he signed the bill has become an indelible political image. Watching proudly in the back that day was Castile.

“Oh my God, we finally did it,” Castile remembered thinking. “Congratulations, Phil.”

After the police reform bills were rejected, Walz tried other routes to deal with racial disparities, at the behest of Democrats eager to avoid bills that could be deemed as anti-police.

Walz worked with lawmakers in 2023 to invest more than $70 million in workforce training for manufacturing and tech jobs. After the NAACP filed a lawsuit alleging that the child-welfare system disproportionately separated Black families, they approved proactive steps to keep families together. They passed laws barring discrimination based on hairstyles and establishing an office to investigate suspicious deaths of Black women that have become cold cases.

In May 2024, Walz told The Post that these policies have helped to close some of the state’s racial gaps. For example, the median household income for Black Minnesotans has jumped 70 percent since 2011, the seventh-fastest growth rate in the country, according to the state’s Department of Employment and Economic Development.

“We’ve stopped admiring the problem,” Walz said in the interview. “We’ve learned not to do the Minnesota thing, which is to look at disparities, say ‘Oh that’s too bad,’ then go and eat pie.”

He also said he was wrong to wonder if the country might have missed its chance to eradicate racism.

“That was a part of my trauma speaking,” Walz said.

The women he met in 2020, though, still wonder if they will ever experience any relief from their trauma, a smidgen of which Castile felt when Walz signed the school meals bill. They accuse Walz of giving up on police reform too quickly. Perry, whose son died in the jail cell, continued trying to persuade Walz that they needed to do more work. In 2018, when Hardel Sherrell died, there were nine other deaths at county jails, state data shows. Last year, there were 20 deaths.

Her phone calls, though, were being returned much more infrequently. Perry’s advocacy didn’t even get a hearing during the last legislative session. When she met Walz earlier this year, he asked if she had been in touch with the Rev. Al Sharpton. Maybe some national attention would help, he suggested.

“Maybe he should call him,” Perry told The Post. “He knows him. I don’t. I’m a grieving mother.”

Still racked with pain, Garraway said there are bigger matters on her mind than Walz’s potential vice presidency.

When county prosecutors decided in June to drop their case against a state trooper who killed a Black man named Ricky Cobb II during a traffic stop, she called Walz to see if she could get answers from a man she thought she understood. Walz had supported dropping the charges, saying it would be impossible to prove that the officer used excessive force.

But after introducing Walz to so many grieving families, Garraway was desperate to know why he could side with the police in this case. She trusted his judgment. So after his big speech accepting the nomination and all the balloons and the pageantry of the Democratic convention, she hopes he’ll answer her calls again. She longs to hear his voice.

[velocijupiter]

Kintype Anatomical Diagram - 2024 Revamp!

Thought the old schematic was outdated enough, so here's a new one! Probably not realistically feasible in some parts, so take it more as a fun creative exercise :] More systems have been laid out due to a different style for showing everything.

Text transcript under the cut:

Jupiter DromaeOS - Rough Schematic

Height - 6'1/2" / 198cm

Tail Length - 4'8" / 142cm

Weight - 215lb / 97.5kg

Composition is largely of carbon, with smaller amounts of silicon, gold, iron, water, and other trace elements.

Skeletal System

Compacted carbon for support and structural integrity

Braced in certain areas

Ribs divided to allow movement of storage compartments

Electric System

Provides energy for most bodily functions

A. Power Supply Unit - Allows charging from an external energy grid. Requires power cable

B. Solar Panels - Carbon-perovskite photovoltaics for use when away from an energy grid. Usually hidden under feathers

C. Battery - Lithium-sulfur solid state battery that provides ~48 hours of waketime when fully charged

D. Solid State Drive - Extra storage capacity for important memories and information

E. Graphics Processing Unit - Renders AR and holo-displays, as well as internal simulations and dreams

Circulatory System

Circulates around the body a kind of “blood” made of nanites and liquid coolant. Waste heat ejected through fans on the back of the body

F. Nanite Hub - Pumps nanite blood throughout the body. Also houses a nanite fabricator and programmer

Nervous System

Houses most processing power, tactile sense, and consciousness. Comprised of artificial neurons that require a constant supply of electricity

G. Central Processing Unit - Standard issue synthetic humanoid brain. Structure indicates a nontrivial level of neurodivergence

Digestive System

Processes traditional food and certain kinds of inorganic matter. Essential for self-repair and can have a positive effect on mental state

H. Crusher - For chewing both organic and inorganic matter. Soundproofed by skeletal structure in snout

I. Pseudostomach - Dissolves consumed material with nanites rather than acid

J. Graphene Production Chambers - Produces graphene for use in repairs via flash joule heating. Leftover material deposited in lowest storage compartments for use as printer feedstock

Storage Compartments

Built-in drawers for storing goods and materials. Can be refrigerated via circulatory system

Sensory and Communication Devices

K. Microphones - Ear equivalent, input volume can be adjusted or muted

L. Speaker - Vocal output device, can produce a wide array of sounds and can be modulated

M. Eyes - Light passes through display screens used for visual communication

N. AR lens - Projects private-use visual overlays

O. Retinas - Collects modified light signal and sends to CPU and GPU

P. Wireless Internet Receiver - Fully-controlled access to decentralized internet. Uses secondary displays rather than direct input into CPU

Q. Nostrils & Tongue - Detect presence of chemicals in air and food, output converted into signals directed towards CPU

Rockets

Provide mobility within aerospace

R. Microthrusters - Small ion thrusters for stabilization in microgravity

S. Liquid Fuel/Oxidizer Storage - Frozen when not in use to reduce balance issues

T. Pumps - Carry fuel and oxidizer into combustion chamber

U. Combustion Chamber - Mixes and burns fuel and oxidizer

V. Nozzle - Rocket exhaust exits through soles to create thrust

[lala1267]

Her property.

Summary: just a spoilt girl named Aria that always gets what she wants. Not this time.

Warnings: smut kinda, obsession??

Notes: I might make a part 2, idk yet. And btw "she" is Aria.

She sat in the croud of blurred faces. Her eyes were glued to the dancing angel that sang with a spice to his voice. He was like a white jumpsuit ghost. His flared trousers were studded with shimmering rhinestones, as was his top. His white boots stomped across the shiny floor. His black hair stuck to his sweaty forehead whilst his large hands held the microphone. Her eyes widened as her heart pounded against her ribcage. She grasped the wine glass with her shaky hands and sipped the liqour. The spice travelled down her throat, leaving a haunting tingle. Her breath quickened as her dirty thoughts clouded her brain. His blue eyes shimmered in the stage light. He was like a Greek God. A few women jumped over the barrier so that they were on the edge of the stage. Their hands reached up to the godly man that towered over them.

"Elvis! Kiss me!"

They shouted with desperation in their annoying voices. Elvis smirked before he knelt down towards them. He cupped one of their faces and planted his soft lips onto theirs. He did the same with every other girl that needed him.

She sat in the crowd with a frown on her face and furrowed brows. Her hand tightly gripped the glass of blood red wine whilst the other clawed into her thigh. She was blessed with beauty, but she was filled with jealousy and rage. She was only seventeen, yet she had such a temper. She was a strong baby doll who always got her way no matter the consequences.

She stood up from her seat and rushed over to the barrier that separated the crowd from the stage that was blessed with Elvis. She pushed through the hundreds of women without care. They all looked at her with offended faces. She grasped the metal railing and climbed over it. She planted her heels on the ground before running over to the stage. She looked up at the white jumpsuit ghost that hovered over her desperate self. She reached her hand up to attempt to grasp him. His eyes wandered to her. He smiled before bending down towards her. His eyes fluttered shut as he inched closer. Her blood rushed around her circulation system like rapids. Her heart was ready to burst out of her chest. Her hand landed on the back of his neck. Her fingers intwined with his wet black hair. She puckered up her cherry red lips as she closed her eyes. Finally, their lips met in a kiss. Her world was complete. All of her worries, problems, and ills faded away as Elvis's lips healed her. Lust replaced her rage. She wished that she could stay in this position forever, but all miracles must come to an end. Elvis pulled away, leaving her stranded and desperate. Her dough eyes opened. A single tear streamed down her pretty face. The trail of water glistened on her skin. Elvis looked to her before mouthing the words,

"Meet me backstage."

Her heart filled up again as a smile cascaded her face. Her hands toyed with her long hair before she made her way back to her seat. She sat there kicking her feet and giggling for the rest of the performance.

As the show came to an end and the lights dimmed, she stood up. She lifted her handbag onto her shoulder before adjusting her short pink dress that hugged her figure perfectly and glistened in the dim light. She fixed the large pink bow in her blonde hair before pulling out a compact mirror from her handbag. She also pulled out a red lip gloss. She opened the mirror and stared at her pretty self for a few moments. She was obsessed with herself. She unscrewed the lip gloss before applying the sticky substance to her soft lips. She smiled at her reflection before placing the things back into her bag.

Just then, she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to look at the man standing before her. His eyes widened at her beauty before he forced his words out.

"Elvis would like you backstage, I'm here to take you. My name's Jerry"

He said as he reached his hand out towards her. She nodded happily before taking his hand and following him. They walked through a set of grand doors and into a room that was filled with people, mostly women. She looked around, desperate to find Elvis. Strobe lights illuminated the room as people danced like no one was watching them. Jerry turned to her before speaking.

"Just settle yourself and have a good time. Elvis should be with you shortly."

She nodded before walking over to the bar. She sat on the stool before staring at the dozens of expensive alcohol bottles that were neatly placed on the shelves behind the counter. A cashier stood I front of her before she spoke.

"Aunt Roberta, please."

The cashier's eyes widened in shock as he looked at her with confusion.

"That's a pretty strong drink ma'am, it's got three onces of vodka."

"Just give me the goddamn drink, I'm paying you, remember?.

She said in a sassy tone before the cahsier turned around to make the drink. He placed the glass of liquor in front of her. It was orange with a hint of red in it. She smiled at him before picking the glass up with her fingers that were decorated with expensive rings that past lovers had brought her. She gulped a good amount of it down with no hesitation and still made it look lady like. A few men around her clapped and whistled as they saw her drink it with such ease. She laughed as she crossed her long legs.

Once she finished her drink, she stood up and walked towards the dance floor. She looked through the crowd as she pushed and shoved other women that were in her way. She bumped into a large figure. The smell of expensive cologne invaded her nostrils. She looked up to find Elvis staring down at her with a smirk of his face.

"I've been looking all over for you."

He said as he held her hand.

"You have?"

She asked.

"Who wouldn't? You're by far the prettiest girl in this building."

He whispered into her ear. A smirk rose over her face as her ego grew. She already knew that she was the prettiest, but listening to Elvis say it made her feel a type of way. She looked into his eyes as he looked at hers.

They chatted and flirted. They sat in a corner together, out of sight. She was all over him. Her hand caressed his exposed chest as she sat on his thighs. He played with her blonde hair as his other hand held his drink. He was lost in her beauty. Her alluring eyes looked deeply into his. She was like a magnet to him. She moved closer to him until her lips landed on his. Elvis's free hand moved down her back and onto her hips. Their tongues danced toughether. Elvis's hands gripped her thigh tightly, which sent shock waves through her body. She needed him desperately.

Without warning, Elvis picked her up as she wrapped her legs around his hips. He brought her into a room. It was a bedroom. He placed her onto the master bed. Her long hair spralled out over the red satin covers. Elvis hovered on top of her perfect body. He placed kissed over her neck and collar bone. A cascading smile formed on her ruby-red lips that were smudged with lipstick. He reached his hands down to the bottom of her dress and hiked it up to her hips. He aggressively pulled down her black thong and threw it on the red carpet. The cold air rushed to her cleavidge. He quickly unbuckeld his belt and his trousers until his hard was exposed. Suddenly, he began to thrust into her like she was his object of affection. His toy. But she was living every bit of it. Loud moans escaped her mouth as the Vegas city lights reflected off Elvis's sweaty face. His hair bounced up and down. She pulled his head down into her face. She kissed him like there was no tomorrow.

They sat in the bed cuddling. She was glued onto him like he was a teddy bear. His hands stroked her long hair as her eyes fluttered shut.

She woke up to the morning sunrays on her face. Her blonde, messy hair spralled out on the pillow as the covers ruffled over her body. His southern drawl opened her eyes.

"Mornin' baby."

He said as he stared at her pretty face. She smiled at him before getting up and hugging his bare chest. She looked up into his eyes as the light shot diamonds from them. He smiled down at her before he pulled away.

"Your things are already packed. When you've done waking up and dressing, Jerry will take you home."

He said as he looked down at her. Her face dropped as her heart shattered like fragile glass.

"W-what?"

"Oh, I said tha-"

"I know what you said stupid! I just want to know why?

She said with a bitchy tone.

"Why what?"

Elvis asked as his brows furrowed.

"Why you are sending a pretty girl like ME home?!"

She snapped.

"Oh, it was just a one night stand darli-"

He stopped his sentence when he noticed the flood of tears escaping her puppy eyes. He pulled her into a hug.

"Whoa, I didn't mean it like that, honey."

He said as he patted her head with his big hand.

"You can't just invite a girl like me to your bedroom and not ask her on a date."

Elvis giggled slightly as he pulled away.

"No ma'am, I have work."

He said as he trailed off to his closet. Anger and fury filled her heart as she grunted. She quickly grabbed her suitcase.

"We will see about that."

She whispered to herself as she aggressively walked out of the door and slammed it shut. She didn't even bother to get dressed. She was still in her pidgamas. Elvis just shook his head as he continued to get dressed.

Her house

She stood in front of her tall mirror that was studded with diamonds and decorated with pictures of herself. Just her. She smiled menacingly as her hands traced along her body, which was gift wrapped in a baby blue tight dress that ended at her sun-kissed thighs. It was bordered with glittery white diamonds that shimmered like pixy dust. It hugged her perfect figure like it was bound to be hers. It looked as if stars played in her luscious blonde curls that draped over her shoulders and back. A baby blue ribbon sat in her hair. Her foxy eyeliner accessorised her alluring look. Her cherry red lips, her diamond blue eyes, her button nose, everything was so perfect. She slipped on her white high heels smoothly before blowing a kiss at her pretty reflection. She walked out of her house door and onto the street. The afternoon sun shot golden rays at her ethereal face. She crossed her slim legs and her arms as she waited. Soon a taxi pulled up in front of her. She disappeared into the vehicle.

Soon, she arrived at Elvis's show. Just because Elvis turned her down wasn't going to stop her from getting what she wanted. She ran straight to the only free front row seat and eagerly waited for her man to be illuminated by the white stage lights. She was pulled out of her lustfull haze when the crowd roared as he walked on stage. Girls ran straight to the edge of the stage and screamed his name. Elvis bent down to kiss each and every one of them. She felt a sudden heat rise in her as her breath quickened. Her brows furrowed, and her fist bawled. She swallowed down her salty tears. How could he kiss more girls when he has kissed Aria? She quickly stood up. She raced towards the front of the stage, pushing past the girls, even nocking some over.

"Watch where you're going bitch!"

A female voice shouted behind her. She stopped in her tracks. All she could hear was white noise. She slowly turned around to look at the female who had said it. Of course, it was a grown woman.

"Who the fuck do you think you are talking to?! At your big age!"

Aria shouted as she pointed her finger in the woman's direction. The woman was quick to speak.

"Watch your goddamn mouth. You child!"

Aria's eyes widened at her comment. She instantly snapped back like venom.

"I know you're not talking with your wrinkles. Ya old hag. Oh, and I recommend that you try a weightloss programme. Mabey, then you would get a ring on that fat ass finger!!"

The woman was too stunned to speak. She looked as if her world was crushed by Aria's bitter words. Aria just fake smiled and flicked her hair before making her way to the front of the stage.

She barged past many other girls before her hands landed on the cold, shiny stage. She waited until Elvis looked at her. A smile cascaded upon her smug face as she waved at him. He smiled awkwardly before carrying on with his jaw-dropping performance. Aria needed him and she needed him urgently.

She ran backstage, ignoring the multiple people that shouted for her to get out. She walked around until she saw glimpse of bright stage lights shining through a door. She carefully walked towards it. Her highheels that clicked on the hard floor were gradually silenced as the sound of the crowd screaming like animals invaded her ears. She poked her head into the opening that the lights were coming from. A large conniving grin rose upon her face. She saw Elvis performing on stage, it was a side veiw as she was backstage. His jawline was so strong and his side profile was so sexy. She could just stand and look at him all night if she could. In her vision, pink and red love hearts floated around Elvis like orbs as romantic flowers surrounded him like a field of romance. Her delusional imagination was cut short when she heard a lot of footsteps quickly growing closer to her.

"Where is that goddamn girl!?"

A male voice shouted. She whipped her head around to see a glimpse of men running in her direction. She instantly kicked off her heels and ran like she never ran before, full speed on the stage. She ran into the white noise. The stage lights blinded her as the crowd deafened her. This didn't stop her. She ran up to Elvis and jumped on him like an animal. Elvis's arms wrapped around her to make sure that she wouldn't fall. She placed a million kisses on his face as he was still processing everything. Aria felt a few pairs of hands wrap around her small body as they pryed her from Elvis with ease. She kicked and shouted for them to let her go. She was crazy. They dragged her backstage, and before she knew it, she was dumped onto the cold street, her heels thrown next to her. She sat on the damp street as she looked at the entrance door that she was previously pushed out of. Her teeth grinded, and her fists clenched. She grunted and grabbed her heels before getting up and storming off like the spoilt bratt she was. This was the first time that she didn't get her way. Her world was crushed into a pink powder.

[sammygrace]

Clandestine | Bald Man

Series Masterlist

An Hour Later

The sun hung low behind scattered clouds, casting long, shifting shadows across the cracked highway. Phoenix’s tires hummed against the faded asphalt, Daryl a steady presence just behind her on his own bike. The wind whipped her hair beneath the helmet, and the world stretched wide around them—open, raw, and quiet.

They rode for nearly an hour.

Occasionally, the remnants of a dead town came into view: a gas station stripped bare, a parking lot overrun with weeds, the husk of a school bus leaning against a crumbling embankment. No signs of life. Not yet.

Eventually, Daryl slowed behind her and pointed. They pulled off onto a dirt path and parked beneath a canopy of half-dead trees. The air was still, heavy with the scent of mud and pine needles.

Phoenix dismounted, stretching her legs. “How far out are we?”

Daryl scanned the treeline. “Far enough.” He crouched and ran two fingers through the dirt, inspecting faint impressions. “Someone passed through here. Not long ago. Bare feet. Dragging a pack.”

Phoenix stepped closer, squinting at the marks. “How recent?”

Daryl stood. “Hour. Maybe two.”

She unzipped a side pouch on her bag and pulled out a small plastic sandwich bag. Inside was a compact microphone and a battery pack, carefully sealed. “Aaron slipped this into my pack,” she said, holding it up. “Said we could try recording areas and checking on them every once in a while for signs of life.”

Daryl eyed it. “Smart.”

Phoenix set it up on a nearby stump, angling it toward the open trail, then turned the dial until the red light blinked once. Recording.

They moved on, slow and quiet. For a while, the only sounds were the crunch of leaves and the distant call of birds. They walked without speaking—like they’d been doing this for years.

Then Daryl broke the silence. “You ever send anyone away?”

Phoenix kept walking. “Yeah,” she said. “Three people. Two men and a woman.”

She didn’t elaborate at first. The memory had weight to it.

“It was about a week after I got to Alexandria. Aaron thought they’d work out. I wasn’t sure, but I was new, still trying to trust the system. We brought them in. Cleaned them up. Gave them food.” She slowed, looking at the forest ahead like it might answer for her. “They didn’t even make it two days. The woman tried to steal from Olivia’s stores. One of the guys got aggressive with Eric when he tried to talk to them about it. We decided not to give them a second chance.”

Daryl didn’t speak.

“Aaron and Eric drove them out. Took their weapons, gave them a day’s worth of supplies. Dropped them at an old campsite about fifteen miles south.” She looked over at him. “I don’t know if they lived. But I know it still felt like hell.”

Daryl nodded. “That why everyone’s so picky?”

“I think we have to be. We can’t make the same mistake again. We need to know who we’re letting in. Like they did with you and your group. You’re the reason I even agreed to take this job.”

Daryl huffed a quiet breath through his nose. “Guess we owe Aaron.”

Phoenix gave a small smile. “Yeah. Guess we do.”

They moved deeper into the woods, the trail narrowed and curved east, away from the road. 

That’s where they saw him.

A man. Gaunt. Mid-thirties, maybe older—it was hard to tell beneath the dirt and sunburn. He crouched at the edge of a dry creek bed, rubbing his hands into the mud.

At first, Phoenix thought he was injured, but then he smeared the mud across his face—carefully, deliberately. “For the mosquitoes,” she murmured.

Daryl gave a short nod.

They ducked low in the brush, watching. The man’s movements were erratic—nervous. He kept glancing over his shoulder, as if he knew he was being followed. Or feared he might be. He didn’t carry a weapon. Or at least, not one they could see. But he had a pack, half-empty, with something clanking inside.

They stayed in the shadows, trailing him from a distance, stepping where he stepped, keeping to the edges of the trees. Phoenix didn’t even feel her heartbeat spike. She just watched. Calculated.

They didn’t speak.

Didn’t need to.

The man led them further from the road, deeper into overgrown trails. The birds got quieter. Even the wind seemed to hush. Phoenix touched Daryl’s arm and gave a subtle signal: wait.

They paused, crouched behind a thicket. The man was muttering to himself now, too quiet to make out. He knelt and scratched something into the dirt—then stood and walked on.

Phoenix glanced at the marks but didn’t get closer yet. “Keep following?” she whispered.

Daryl nodded once.

They moved again, slow and deliberate.

|

They had lost him.

Somewhere between the winding brush and the overgrown creek beds, the stranger had slipped away. No prints. No noise. No movement.

Phoenix and Daryl stood near a rusted fence half-covered in ivy. On the other side, three walkers milled in lazy circles—trapped between sagging mesh and a line of trees beyond.

“Shit,” Phoenix muttered under her breath.

Daryl tapped the fence lightly with his crossbow’s stock. The metal clanged. The walkers groaned and turned.

“Need supplies anyway,” he said.

She nodded.

One by one, they took out the walkers. A knife between the eyes. A crossbow bolt through the skull. Phoenix kicked one back against the fence before driving her blade through its temple. When the last one dropped, they waited—just long enough to be sure nothing else stirred.

Then Daryl found a gap and pushed through. Phoenix followed.

Beyond the fence, the woods thinned into a clearing.

At the center of it stood a long-abandoned shipping facility—half the roof collapsed, rust creeping up its steel frame. Several trailers were parked haphazardly at a loading dock, their white exteriors sun-bleached and peeling.

Phoenix climbed onto the dock first, grabbing a metal ledge and hoisting herself up. She paused, wiping sweat from her brow. Then she froze.

“Daryl,” she called out softly, pointing.

The back of one truck bore an Alaskan license plate, faded but unmistakable.

He climbed up beside her.

“Alaska?” he muttered.

“Long haul,” she said. “Whatever’s in there, it’s been moved far.”

They approached one of the trailers.

“Food maybe,” she whispered, eyeing the bolts.

Daryl nodded. “Only one way to know.”

He unlatched the trailer’s door and yanked, it opened with a heavy groan.

And then—

A loud clang echoed through the yard.

A chain snapped.

Then another.

Phoenix’s stomach dropped. “Wait—”

BANG. SLAM. CLANG.

Like a string of dominoes, every trailer began to creak and pop open, one by one, the locks all rigged to the first.

From inside: snarls.

Growls.

Dozens of rotting bodies surged forward—some marked with crudely carved Ws across their foreheads.

“Run!” Daryl barked, but Phoenix was already moving.

They dove beneath the first trailer as the first wave poured out—thumping down from metal lips and splashing into mud. Daryl rolled ahead, kicking open a path with his boot. Phoenix slid on her side, breath heaving, barely dodging a gnarled hand reaching beneath the axle.

On the other side, she scrambled to her feet.

A walker lunged. She gripped a rusted crowbar from the ground and swung—bone crunched and it dropped.

Another came from the left.

Daryl shot it square through the skull.

They fought back to back—blood flying, limbs grabbing. Phoenix’s foot slipped on the wet gravel and a walker came down on her hard, snarling in her face. She twisted, grabbed a broken screwdriver from the ground, and stabbed upward into its jaw. The body fell limp on top of her, heavy and slick.

Daryl hauled it off and grabbed her arm. “Car!”

They bolted for the only vehicle nearby that looked even remotely intact—a dusty sedan, windows cracked but unbroken.

Phoenix yanked the door open, threw herself in, and slid across to unlock the passenger side. Daryl slammed it shut just as three walkers reached them, pounding on the windows with bloodied fists.

More were coming, dozens, and they all swarmed the car.

Phoenix locked the doors, chest heaving. Her knife still trembled in her grip.

Daryl checked the handle. “Won’t hold forever.”

She looked at the window—cracked but solid. Then back at him. “Long enough, we’ve got a few hours.”

Their eyes met, complete silence, except for the dead pressing in on all sides.

|

They sat in the car, the groans and shuffling of walkers pressing in around them. The glass rattled softly as palms smeared blood and grime across it.

Phoenix shifted in her seat, keeping her knife close. “You ever think about why Aaron brought us in?”

Daryl glanced at her. “Yeah. I figure he tries not to make a lot of mistakes.”

She exhaled through her nose. “I wasn’t the easiest person to interview. I didn’t give him much. I barely spoke during the run back.”

Daryl tilted his head. “You do that with everyone.”

“Exactly,” she said. “So why did he think I’d be worth the risk?”

He didn’t answer.

Phoenix leaned her head back against the seat. “I’ve been thinking about it ever since he offered me this job. Like I’m supposed to live up to some second chance I didn’t ask for.”

Daryl reached into his jacket and pulled a hunting knife from the sheath along his belt.

Phoenix straightened. “What are you doing?”

“Gonna draw them off,” he said. “If I lead ‘em one way, you head out the other.”

“Bullshit,” she said instantly. “We’re not splitting up.”

He looked at her, dead serious. “You’ll move faster. You get back to the bikes, circle around.”

“And leave you here? Alone?”

“I’ve been worse off.”

Phoenix gave him a look that was half fury, half disbelief. “I don’t need a knight in shining armor.”

He opened the door a crack. “Ain’t wearin’ any.”

She grabbed his sleeve. “No. We go together. That’s the deal.”

Daryl hesitated… then relented, sliding his knife back into its sheath.

They readied themselves, both hands on door handles, breath synced, counting down to run.

Then—

A wet thud.

One of the walkers collapsed just outside Phoenix’s window, another followed, skull caved in by a staff-like object. A flash of movement beyond the sea of limbs, someone was out there.

Daryl threw his door open and burst out, taking down the closest walker. Phoenix scrambled after him, using the distraction to clear two more. A third stumbled toward her, jaw hanging slack, and she buried her knife into its skull.

A dark-skinned, bald man moved beside them—calm, fluid, staff whipping through the air like water through reeds. He cracked another walker across the skull, pivoted, and finished it with a silent, deliberate thrust.

“Move!” the man shouted, already running.

Phoenix and Daryl followed, ducking under a fallen beam and scaling a short fence, which they shoved shut behind them. A nearby chain dangled from a bolt—Phoenix grabbed it and wrapped it around the gate latch, locking the walkers on the other side.

Panting. Still. Silence.

Then the man turned to them. “I’m Morgan,” he said, extending a hand.

Daryl looked him over before shaking it.

Phoenix nodded, lowering her blade slightly. “Phoenix. That’s Daryl.”

“Thank you,” Daryl added, dusting off his shoulder.

Morgan dipped his head. “You’re welcome. I wasn’t sure if I should intervene, but… seemed like the right time.”

Phoenix wiped a streak of blood from her cheek. “Where were you headed?”

“I already have somewhere to go,” Morgan replied. “But I’m lost.”

He reached into his coat and handed Daryl a folded map.

Daryl took it, unfolded the paper, and scanned the markings.

Then something in his expression shifted—recognition settling into a slow, amused grin.

Phoenix watched him. “What?”

He held up the map, showing her the words scribbled across one side:

"Sorry. I was trying to get to you."

The ink was Rick’s. Phoenix raised an eyebrow, Daryl looked at Morgan.

“I think I know the way,” he said.

|

The ride back was quiet.

Morgan held onto the metal frame behind Daryl’s seat, steady but detached, eyes fixed on the road ahead like he was calculating every mile. Phoenix rode slightly ahead, scanning the horizon. The sky had turned a bruised orange, the sun slanting low over the trees. It should’ve been peaceful.

But something felt off.

As they neared the gates of Alexandria, a familiar figure waved them down from the watch post. Phoenix slowed her bike and pulled off her helmet. “Trevor,” she called.

The man jogged up to meet them, chest heaving. “You’re back. Good. They’re all at the meeting. Near the fire pit.”

Phoenix frowned. “What kind of meeting?”

Trevor glanced back toward the heart of the community. “Deanna called it. You’ll see.”

No one asked more. They revved the bikes again and rolled down the street, gravel crunching beneath the tires. Morgan’s eyes swept over the neighborhood as they passed: tidy houses, warm light spilling from windows, the scent of baked food and ash mingling in the evening air.

But the people were gone. Everyone had gathered elsewhere. As they dismounted near the firelight, Phoenix heard the last of Deanna’s voice echo through the space between homes.

“Do it.”

They reached the edge of the crowd just in time to see it.

Rick Grimes stood, gun raised. Pete was on his knees, face swollen from a fight, blood trailing down his temple. There wasn’t a moment of hesitation.

The gunshot cracked across the square.

Pete dropped.

The crowd gasped—some turned away, others didn’t move.

Morgan didn’t flinch.

He stepped forward slowly, gaze locked on the man with the smoking gun. “Rick?” he said, quiet but clear.

Rick turned, still holding the weapon, his breath jagged, and then he saw him.

His eyes widened. The arm holding the gun dipped, stunned recognition flashing like a ghost through his expression.

“Morgan,” he said—like he didn’t believe it.

Phoenix looked between them—Rick’s shock, Morgan’s calm, the silence hanging heavy over everyone.

Daryl stepped up beside her, arms crossed.

“Well,” Phoenix muttered under her breath, “we missed a lot.”

Previous Chapter < > Next Chapter

[charlesmwa]

The Role of Mixers in Live Sound: A Comprehensive Overview

Imagine standing in the middle of a concert, surrounded by the perfect blend of instruments and vocals, every sound complementing the other seamlessly. This magic doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the work of a mixer. Mixers, often referred to as the heart of live sound systems, play a pivotal role in ensuring every performance sounds flawless. Whether it’s a small gig at a local café or a massive stadium concert, mixers are an essential part of live sound setups.

Let's understand what  mixers do, why they’re important, and how they bring live performances to life. Whether you're an aspiring sound engineer, a musician, or simply curious, this comprehensive overview will break it all down in simple terms.

What is a Mixer?

At its core, a mixer is a device that takes multiple audio signals—like vocals, guitars, keyboards, and drums—and blends them into a cohesive output. Think of it as the control center for all the sounds in a live performance.

Mixers allow you to:

Adjust the volume of each input (like turning up the vocals or lowering the bass).

Shape the sound using equalizers (EQ) to balance frequencies.

Add effects like reverb or delay to enhance the audio.

Route signals to different outputs, such as speakers, monitors, or recording devices.

Whether you're using a compact analog mixer or a high-tech digital console, the principles remain the same: taking raw sound and refining it for the audience's ears.

Why Mixers Are Crucial for Live Sound

1. Balancing the Audio

Live performances often involve multiple sound sources—vocals, instruments, backing tracks, and sometimes even crowd noise. A mixer ensures that no single element overpowers the rest, creating a harmonious balance that’s pleasant to listen to. For instance, without a mixer, a loud drum kit could drown out a singer's voice, making the performance feel chaotic.

2. Customizing the Sound

Every venue has unique acoustics. What sounds great in a small indoor space might not work for an open-air festival. Mixers allow sound engineers to adapt the audio for different environments. By tweaking EQ settings, they can reduce echo in large halls or add warmth to a cold-sounding room.

3. Providing Real-Time Control

Live performances are unpredictable. A singer might step away from the mic, or a guitarist might accidentally play too loudly during a solo. With a mixer, sound engineers can make instant adjustments to keep everything running smoothly.

Key Features of Mixers

When exploring mixers, it’s important to understand their features. Here are some key components that make mixers so versatile:

1. Channels

Mixers have multiple channels, each dedicated to a specific input (e.g., a microphone or instrument). Small mixers might have 4-8 channels, while larger ones can have 32 or more. Each channel has its own controls for volume, EQ, and effects, giving you granular control over individual sound sources.

2. Equalization (EQ)

EQ lets you shape the tone of each input. For example:

Boost the treble for a brighter vocal sound.

Cut the bass to reduce rumbling noises.

Adjust midrange frequencies for clarity.

EQ is essential for ensuring that all elements in a mix complement each other without clashing.

3. Aux Sends and Effects

Auxiliary (aux) sends allow you to send specific audio signals to different destinations. For instance, you can send a mix of vocals and instruments to on-stage monitors so performers can hear themselves.

Many mixers also come with built-in effects like reverb, delay, and compression, which can add depth and polish to the sound.

4. Faders and Pan Controls

Faders control the volume of each channel, while pan controls adjust the stereo placement of a sound. For example, you can pan a guitar slightly to the left and a keyboard slightly to the right for a more immersive stereo effect.

5. Digital vs. Analog Mixers

Analog Mixers: Known for their simplicity and tactile controls, analog mixers are a great choice for beginners or smaller setups.

Digital Mixers: These offer advanced features like presets, wireless control via apps, and the ability to handle complex setups. They’re ideal for larger venues or tech-savvy users.

How Mixers Enhance the Audience Experience

A well-mixed performance can transform how the audience experiences live music. Here’s how mixers contribute to a great show:

Clarity: Mixers ensure that every instrument and vocal is heard clearly, even in a crowded or noisy environment.

Energy: By controlling dynamics, mixers can make the music feel more powerful and engaging.

Emotion: Effects like reverb and delay can add atmosphere and emotion to a performance, making it more memorable.

Tips for Using Mixers Effectively

If you’re new to mixers, here are some practical tips to get started:

Start Simple: Focus on getting the basics right—like balancing volume levels—before diving into advanced features.

Learn to Use EQ: Understanding how to use EQ can make a huge difference in the quality of your mix.

Practice in Real Settings: Mixing in a live environment is different from mixing in a studio. Practice in different venues to get a feel for how acoustics affect sound.

Invest in Quality Gear: A reliable mixer can make your life much easier, especially during live performances. Purchasing from reputable audio shops ensures you get equipment that’s durable and built to perform.

Conclusion

Mixers are more than just pieces of equipment—they’re the bridge between raw sound and a polished performance. By understanding their features and functions, you can unlock their full potential and deliver a live sound experience that captivates your audience.

Whether you’re a performer, a sound engineer, or just someone passionate about music, investing time in learning about mixers is well worth it. After all, great sound doesn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of careful planning, skilled mixing, and quality equipment.

So the next time you’re at a concert or gig, take a moment to appreciate the mixer and the person behind it. They’re the unsung heroes making the magic happen!

[playstation7voguemagazine]

modern #MightyMax pocket playsets #MATTEL , MAC cosmetics studio fix compact { hall of mirrors} , Marvel Disc Jockeys Boombox {Dj Hotwheels}, A fitted cap handle case, a pentium chip laptop, a cigar box, a wristwatch display case, the latest playstation7 digital console controller etc, pocketsized playsets for the new #enXantingXMEN #MightyMaxx to explore

These are some amazing ideas for modern pocket-sized playsets and accessories tailored for a next-gen collectible series like #enXantingXMEN Mighty Maxx! Here’s how these could be designed:

MightyMax Pocket Playsets: Marvelous Micro Worlds

MAC Cosmetics "Hall of Mirrors" Compact: A sleek, dual-purpose playset shaped like a makeup compact that transforms into a glamorous, mirrored fortress for the enXantingXMEN to battle their enemies. Includes reflective stickers and hidden compartments for surprises.

Marvel Disc Jockeys Boombox: A retro-futuristic DJ-themed playset disguised as a boombox. Inside, find a stage with spinning turntables, neon-colored speakers, and a dance floor for battles and jams. Comes with DJ Hotwheels and mini records as props.

Fitted Cap Handle Case: A cool hat-themed playset that transforms into a baseball stadium-inspired arena with moveable bases, stands for fans, and a hidden training facility beneath.

Tech-inspired Playsets

Pentium Chip Laptop: A slim, pocket-sized laptop that unfolds into a futuristic digital labyrinth with laser-like details. Features traps, mini-figures, and a secret "power core" mission area.

Cigar Box Arena: Styled like a vintage cigar box, this playset opens to reveal a luxury lounge-turned-hideout for villains. Includes miniatures of cigars that transform into gadgets and props.

Wristwatch Display Case: A compact, circular playset styled after a watch display box, transforming into a time-manipulation-themed battle arena. Features clockwork gears, a ticking trap system, and chronologically inspired challenges.

Entertainment Meets Adventure

PlayStation 7 Digital Controller: A controller-shaped playset that flips open into a gaming-inspired arena. Includes glowing LED effects, mini control pads as weapons, and a hidden console-based mission center.

These modernized #MightyMaxx playsets would resonate with collectors and kids alike, blending nostalgia with futuristic design and endless storytelling possibilities.

Here’s a fresh take on Mighty Max villains reimagined for the modern series. Each villain is designed to challenge the enXantingXMEN MightyMaxx playsets with unique aesthetics and abilities:

Techno-Phantom: Bytecrusher

Backstory: A rogue AI born from corrupted gaming servers, Bytecrusher seeks to dominate the digital and physical worlds by merging them. He manipulates his army of "Glitch Gremlins" to infiltrate systems and wreak havoc.

Appearance: A holographic figure with a cracked screen for a face, glowing circuit veins, and metallic armor.

Abilities:

Digital possession of devices.

Launches pixelated energy blasts.

Creates glitch-based illusions to disorient foes.

Goal: To transform Earth into a digital wasteland under his control.

Siren Sorrow

Backstory: A cursed opera singer trapped in her own haunting melody, Siren Sorrow lures her victims into her echoing lair to feed on their emotions.

Appearance: A ghastly yet elegant figure with a cracked porcelain mask, flowing dark gown, and glowing eyes. Her hands are skeletal but hold a golden microphone.

Abilities:

Hypnotic singing that immobilizes enemies.

Sonic screams that shatter defenses.

Summons ghostly backup dancers to attack.

Goal: To replace all sound in the world with her eternal aria.

Necroforge: Molten Magnus

Backstory: A blacksmith from the underworld who forges living weapons by imprisoning souls in metal. His workshop is a fiery nightmare where his minions, the "Ashborn," guard his treasures.

Appearance: A massive molten golem with glowing cracks and a hammer fused to one arm. Chains drape across his body, each representing a captured soul.

Abilities:

Creates weapons that come alive to attack.

Lava-based powers, including molten traps.

Superhuman strength.

Goal: To create the ultimate weapon to enslave the universe.

Void Viper

Backstory: An ancient serpent deity banished to a pocket dimension, Void Viper seeks to return by consuming life energy from other realms.

Appearance: A monstrous snake with scales that shimmer like the cosmos, multiple glowing eyes, and venom that glows purple.

Abilities:

Dimension-hopping strikes.

Hypnotic gaze that induces fear.

Venom that creates black holes on impact.

Goal: To merge all dimensions into one and rule it as the eternal serpent king.

Carnivorous Kingpin: SugarClaw

Backstory: A mutated candy tycoon who was cursed after tampering with dark confectionery magic. He now rules over the "Lands of Sweet Despair."

Appearance: A grotesque mix of man and candy, with peppermint-striped claws, licorice whips for arms, and a melted caramel face.

Abilities:

Traps enemies in sticky candy webs.

Fires exploding gumdrops.

Summons candy golems.

Goal: To enslave humanity and turn the world into his edible empire.

Chrono Tyrant

Backstory: A time traveler turned mad after losing their family to a paradox, Chrono Tyrant bends time to rewrite history in their favor.

Appearance: A knight-like figure in shimmering armor that shifts between old and futuristic styles, with a clock embedded in their chest.

Abilities:

Freezes, rewinds, and accelerates time.

Creates temporal clones to fight.

Alters the battlefield with time loops.

Goal: To erase all timelines except their own.

These villains would bring a mix of horror, adventure, and high-stakes drama to the MightyMaxx universe, fitting perfectly into modern playsets with their detailed backstories and unique designs.

In the reimagined Mighty Maxx universe, Max is joined by a diverse team of allies, each bringing unique skills and backgrounds to their adventures. Here's an overview of these characters:

Black Panther T'Challa, the king of Wakanda, is a master strategist and combatant. His advanced technology and leadership make him a formidable ally in the fight against evil.

3 Black Panther T'Challa, the king of Wakanda, is a master strategist and combatant. His advanced technology and leadership make him a formidable ally in the fight against evil.Max Steel Maxwell McGrath, known as Max Steel, possesses the ability to generate and control T.U.R.B.O. energy. With his Ultralink partner, Steel, he combats transhuman threats.

8 Max Steel Maxwell McGrath, known as Max Steel, possesses the ability to generate and control T.U.R.B.O. energy. With his Ultralink partner, Steel, he combats transhuman threats.DJ Hot Wheels A world-renowned DJ with a passion for speed, DJ Hot Wheels uses his music and custom vehicles to outpace adversaries and provide sonic support during missions.

13 DJ Hot Wheels A world-renowned DJ with a passion for speed, DJ Hot Wheels uses his music and custom vehicles to outpace adversaries and provide sonic support during missions.Virgil Max's wise and trusty owl companion, Virgil offers guidance and possesses vast knowledge of ancient lore, assisting the team in deciphering cryptic challenges.

16 Virgil Max's wise and trusty owl companion, Virgil offers guidance and possesses vast knowledge of ancient lore, assisting the team in deciphering cryptic challenges.The enXanting XMEN A special unit of mutants with enchanting abilities, they bring a blend of magic and mutation, providing versatile skills in various scenarios.

19 The enXanting XMEN A special unit of mutants with enchanting abilities, they bring a blend of magic and mutation, providing versatile skills in various scenarios.Lindt the Chocolate Girl An expert chocolatier whose creations have mystical properties, Lindt can craft confections that heal, empower, or even create illusions.

22 Lindt the Chocolate Girl An expert chocolatier whose creations have mystical properties, Lindt can craft confections that heal, empower, or even create illusions.Chanel A fashion icon and undercover operative, Chanel uses her influence and gadgets concealed within couture designs to gather intelligence and infiltrate high society circles.

25 Chanel A fashion icon and undercover operative, Chanel uses her influence and gadgets concealed within couture designs to gather intelligence and infiltrate high society circles.Polly Pocket A resourceful adventurer with the ability to shrink in size, allowing her to access tight spaces and gather critical information unnoticed.

28 Polly Pocket A resourceful adventurer with the ability to shrink in size, allowing her to access tight spaces and gather critical information unnoticed.7GAgent LalaLisa A top agent from the 7G intelligence agency, LalaLisa is skilled in martial arts, espionage, and cyber operations, making her an invaluable asset in covert missions.

31 7GAgent LalaLisa A top agent from the 7G intelligence agency, LalaLisa is skilled in martial arts, espionage, and cyber operations, making her an invaluable asset in covert missions.Vampire Hollie A centuries-old vampire with a conscience, Hollie uses her supernatural abilities to protect the innocent and combat dark forces.

34 Vampire Hollie A centuries-old vampire with a conscience, Hollie uses her supernatural abilities to protect the innocent and combat dark forces.Jisoo The Apollo Black Sun Channeling the duality of light and darkness, Jisoo wields powers that can both heal and harm, adapting to the needs of the mission.

37 Jisoo The Apollo Black Sun Channeling the duality of light and darkness, Jisoo wields powers that can both heal and harm, adapting to the needs of the mission.Neo Ruby Jane Jennie A tech-savvy strategist with a mysterious past, Jennie specializes in hacking, robotics, and tactical planning, often serving as the brains behind the operations.

40 Neo Ruby Jane Jennie A tech-savvy strategist with a mysterious past, Jennie specializes in hacking, robotics, and tactical planning, often serving as the brains behind the operations.Together, this eclectic team combines their unique talents to support Max in his quest to thwart evil and restore balance to the world.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of Mighty Max’s allies, reimagined for a modern, expansive, and collaborative universe:

Max’s Core Team

Max Steele

Role: Tech-Powered Guardian

Description: Maxwell McGrath, aka Max Steele, uses his advanced T.U.R.B.O. energy powers to bolster the team. A natural leader and strategist, he’s a perfect foil for Max's bold instincts.

Virgil (Trusty Owl Companion)

Role: Knowledge Keeper

Description: A hyper-intelligent, ancient owl who acts as Max’s guide. Virgil deciphers ancient texts, provides insights into their foes, and serves as Max’s loyal advisor.

Black Panther

Role: Warrior Strategist

Description: T’Challa joins Max as an experienced combatant and technological ally, bringing Wakandan innovations to the fight.

Extended Allies

DJ Hot Wheels

Role: Sonic Specialist

Description: A DJ with supercharged music gear and souped-up vehicles. His beats disorient foes and energize allies, while his driving skills make him the team’s go-to transport expert.

The enXanting XMEN

Role: Mutant Powerhouses

Description: A special subset of the X-Men with enchanting abilities. They bring magical and mutant powers to the team, combining charm and strength to tackle otherworldly foes.

Lindt the Chocolate Girl

Role: Mystical Artisan

Description: With her magical confectionery, Lindt crafts chocolates that heal, empower, or even ensnare enemies in sweet traps. Her workshop is an enchanting haven filled with edible magic.

Chanel

Role: Fashion Spy

Description: A couture-inspired secret agent who hides gadgets in her high-end designs. Chanel’s connections give the team access to high society and valuable intel.

Polly Pocket

Role: Miniature Marvel

Description: Polly's ability to shrink allows her to infiltrate tight spaces and uncover hidden dangers. Her portable playsets often conceal hidden tools for the mission.

7GAgents – Elite Operatives

LalaLisa (7G Agent)

Role: Martial Arts and Cyber Ops Specialist

Description: A highly skilled agent with expertise in combat and hacking. LalaLisa is the team’s front-line fighter and intelligence expert.

Jisoo, The Apollo Black Sun

Role: Light and Darkness Manipulator

Description: Jisoo controls dual powers of healing and destruction. She serves as both a tactical fighter and a support healer for the team.

Neo Ruby Jane Jennie

Role: Tech Tactician

Description: Jennie’s expertise in robotics, gadgets, and strategic planning makes her the team’s behind-the-scenes mastermind.

Vampire Hollie

Role: Supernatural Protector

Description: Hollie brings centuries of wisdom and vampiric abilities to the group. Her superhuman strength, speed, and night vision make her a vital ally in supernatural battles.

This diverse and dynamic team blends the worlds of technology, magic, and strategy, providing Max with the support he needs to overcome increasingly complex and dangerous threats. Each character brings a unique skill set, making them indispensable in their collective fight against evil.

[imsparky2002]

Batraculous: Combat Bat

Character Name: Staci Kwan

Miraculous Hero Name: Combat Bat

Appearance: Staci, known as Combat Bat, has an understated yet distinct appearance. Her short, straight, and dyed red hair adds a touch of uniqueness to her look. Light olive skin complements her almond-shaped hazel eyes, and a star-like birthmark on the left side of her forehead is a subtle yet recognizable feature. Staci typically dresses in casual, athletic fashion, reflecting her practical and no-nonsense personality.

Bio: Staci prefers she/her pronouns and breaks the stereotype of being an unceasingly perky cheerleader. She's a cynic and wisecracker who isn't afraid to speak her mind and provide a voice of reason to her more exuberant classmates, often doing so in the most deadpan way possible. On the outside, she may seem lackadaisical and uncaring, but underneath, she's a caring friend who always keeps her companions grounded. However, her demeanor takes a drastic turn when caffeine enters her system, unleashing a burst of energy and enthusiasm.

Batsuit Description: Combat Bat's batsuit reflects Staci's practical and down-to-earth personality, featuring a subdued yet effective design.

Cowl: Staci's cowl is sleek and minimalist, emphasizing practicality over flashy design. It provides full face coverage, featuring a heads-up display that offers vital information and enhances her situational awareness. The cowl's visor can filter different light wavelengths for night vision and has a retractable microphone for communication.

Cape: Her cape is a dark, functional garment that offers additional protection against akuma attacks. It's designed to be compact and unobtrusive, allowing her maximum mobility while still providing defense. The cape can wrap around her for added protection or unfurl for gliding short distances during combat.

Armor: Combat Bat's armor is utilitarian in design, made from durable and lightweight materials. It offers full-body protection while allowing for freedom of movement. The armor includes reinforced gauntlets that can deliver powerful punches and block incoming attacks. Additionally, her boots feature retractable grappling hooks for quick navigation and evasion.

Gadgets: Her utility belt contains gadgets tailored to her practical approach to heroics. Staci carries smoke pellets that release a dense, dark smoke to obscure vision and create tactical advantages. She also has a versatile tool that can generate EMP pulses to disrupt akuma technology and disable their powers temporarily.

Combat Bat's batsuit embodies Staci's straightforward and no-nonsense personality. With her practicality and ability to stay level-headed in high-pressure situations, she plays a crucial role in the Miraculous heroes' efforts to protect Paris. Whether it's providing a voice of reason or springing into action, Staci's presence is invaluable to the team.

Thanks to ChatGPT for assistance. Make sure to reblog, reply, post and ask for more. @artzychic27 @msweebyness

[asapeventss]

The Power of Sound: Unleashing Event Brilliance with Dubai’s Premier System Rentals

Imagine a captivating speech delivered in a muffled whisper, or a live band performance drowned out by background noise. These scenarios highlight the critical role a professional sound system plays in creating a successful event. In Dubai, where every event strives for brilliance, partnering with a reliable provider of sound system rentals is essential. This blog will explore the power of sound and introduce you to ASAP Events, Dubai's premier provider of sound system rental solutions.

The Power of Sound: Why Sound System Rentals Matter in Dubai

A flawlessly executed event is a symphony of sights and sounds. Crystal-clear audio, perfectly tailored to the venue and event type, is the foundation of a truly immersive experience. Choosing the right sound system rental in Dubai ensures your message is heard loud and clear, your music resonates with the audience, and the overall atmosphere is captivating.

ASAP Events: Elevating Your Event with Expert Sound System Rentals

ASAP Events understands the power of sound. They offer a comprehensive range of high-quality sound system rentals in Dubai, catering to any event size and style. Whether you require a compact system for a corporate meeting or a high-powered rig for a concert, their team of audio specialists will help you select the perfect solution to amplify your event's success.

Beyond the Speakers: A Comprehensive Sound System Rental Experience

ASAP Events goes beyond simply offering sound system rentals in Dubai. Their dedicated team provides a full spectrum of services, including:

Sound system design and planning: Collaborate with their audio experts to determine the ideal sound system configuration, taking into account venue acoustics, audience size, and event type.

Microphone rentals: Choose from a variety of microphones, including wired and wireless options, to suit your specific needs, from capturing captivating speeches to amplifying dynamic performances.

Mixing consoles: Their inventory includes user-friendly and professional-grade mixing consoles, allowing you to control sound levels and create a flawless audio experience.

Technical support: Their experienced staff will be on-site to manage the sound system setup, operation, and breakdown, ensuring a seamless and stress-free event for you.

Choosing the Right Sound System Rental in Dubai

When selecting a company for sound system rental in Dubai, consider these factors:

Equipment quality: Look for a company that offers high-fidelity sound systems from reputable brands, ensuring clear and reliable audio throughout your event.

Customization: A flexible provider will offer system configuration options and microphone selections to perfectly match your event's needs.

Technical expertise: Partner with a team of experienced audio technicians who can optimize the sound system for your specific venue and event type.

Comprehensive service: Choose a company like ASAP Events that offers a complete package, including equipment, setup, and on-site technical support.

ASAP Events: Unlocking the Power of Sound for Your Event

By partnering with ASAP Events for your sound system rental in Dubai, you unleash the power of sound to elevate your event. Their commitment to delivering exceptional audio experiences, combined with their extensive inventory and technical expertise, ensures your message will resonate with your audience and leave a lasting impression. So, don't settle for a silent spectacle – unlock the magic of sound with ASAP Events and create a truly brilliant event in Dubai.

[the-girl-from-dres]

Extract from Thirkenforth Locomotive Works' 1937 Product Catalogue

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy, Part One: The Head 1. Wireles transmitter/reciever, capable of interpreting Morse and Baudot coded messages.

2. Standard sound input/output systems (A simple microphone and pair of speaker cones)

3. Reinforced steel Brain Container (General Use Automatons, or GUAs use a used human brain to manage logical decisions of all kinds)

4. Central Vision Apertures

5. Three-axis neck mounting point (Allows the head to turn in all directions)

6. Peripheral vision apertures

7. Counterweight (The head of a GUA is heavy, and thus needs to be balanced out on the other side)

8. Light-through-tape multi-expression system -a pseudo-eye

9. Oscilloscope-based pseudo-mouth (As GUAs are run by a human brain, they still retain the capability to feel emotions, though typically less so than the average person. The pseudo-eyes and mouth are systems by which a GUA may have a level of emotional expression.)

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy, Part Two: The Arms

Two-Axis articulated digits -the fingers can bend in two directions, offering it a wider range of ways to grip things

Hydraulically actuated elbow joints give a high torque for lifting heavy objects.

Thirkenforth standard palm electromagnet for handling metallic objects -This is particularly useful for objects with no easy surface to grab onto.

Wide range of thumb motion allows for a stronger grip.

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy, Part Three: The torso 1. Serial number and Thirkenforth Locomotive Works emblem are displayed on exterior panelling. TLW offers engraved nameplates to its customers for no additional cost.

2. A V-Twin petrol engine provides traction and power, in a more reliable and compact form compared to steam-based automatons.

3. An electric motor powers the Mass Reallocation Ring. Replacements may be purchased at a discount directly from TLW in the case of failure.

4. The Mk.III Mass Reallocation Ring offers unparalleled stability. The Mark Eight GUA actually uses two stacked on top of each other, such that the force created by movement of internal weights in one ring can be counteracted by the other.

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy Part Four: The legs

Three-Axis pivoting hip joints give the leg a wide range of motion for superior navigation.

Detachable 'Cuisse', 'Polyen' and 'Greave' leg panels are an optional extra for automatons requiring additional protection for fragile mechanisms.

Knee joints are spring-loaded to improve weight handling characteristics.

Fully movable toes ensure the Mark Eight keeps its weight spread over a wide area, even on one leg.

For enquiries concerning the products of Thirkenforth Locomotive Works, send correspondence to 48 Ullesthorpe Road, Thirkenforth, Rutland LE17 2AQ.

[worldtraveller]

Japan Travel Guide. The World's Most Futuristic Country

Experience the allure of Japan In this article, we delve into the hidden depths beneath its modern exterior. Join us on an enthralling journey through the lesser-known aspects and untold struggles of the world's most advanced country. Japan is renowned for its neon-lit streets and serene temples, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation. However, beyond the shimmering surface lies a side of Japan that is often overlooked—a side that grapples with societal pressures, mental health issues, and unspoken challenges. Explore the toll that relentless ambition takes on the Japanese people, from the pervasive culture of overwork to the damaging effects of social isolation. We will uncover the untold stories and shed light on the human cost of Japan's pursuit of success. In our quest to understand the hidden truths of Japan, we will also provide valuable insights into the country's unique culture and customs. From exploring the intricate world of tea ceremonies to discovering the ancient art of bonsai, we will delve into the rich tapestry of Japanese traditions that continue to shape the nation. Additionally, we will take a closer look at the technological advancements that have propelled Japan to the forefront of innovation. From the latest advancements in robotics to the development of cutting-edge transportation systems, we will showcase Japan's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of human achievement. Throughout this journey, we will provide recommendations for the best products to enhance your own exploration of Japan. Whether you're an avid traveler or simply seeking to expand your knowledge, we have compiled a list of top-rated drones, smart TVs, monitors, and travel accessories to enhance your experiences in the Land of the Rising Sun. Thank you for taking the time to watch our content. We invite you to subscribe, like, and comment, as your engagement fuels our passion for sharing the hidden truths of Japan with a global audience. ———- Our Gear ———- Vlogging Camera – https://amzn.to/3RHSueALens – https://amzn.to/3LMFJeXVlogging Microphone – https://amzn.to/46cPAmpTripod – https://amzn.to/3LKxrEDSD Card – https://amzn.to/3F2SKxuND Filter – https://amzn.to/3LNssmt Other Options: Product Links ➡️ Best Drone Overall (DJI Mavic 3 Pro)🛒: https://amzn.to/45AofK9➡️ Best Budget Compact Drone (DJI Mini 2 SE)🛒: https://amzn.to/48TegCu➡️ Best FPV Drone (DJI FPV Combo)🛒: https://amzn.to/3ZGI2WV➡️ Best Smart TVs Overall (Sony A95K)🛒: https://amzn.to/3rI77Ek➡️ Best Budget Smart TVs (Sony X80K)🛒: https://amzn.to/3ROebdg➡️ Best Monitor (Apple Studio Display)🛒: https://amzn.to/3RPL9de➡️ Best Travel Accessories (Universal Travel Adapter)🛒: https://amzn.to/45mYblg My Work Flow / Tools ➡️ Editing Software (Davinci Resolve Free)🛒: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com➡️ Editing Software (Davinci Resolve Studio)🛒: https://amzn.to/3rIEiYj➡️ Monitor (Apple Studio Display)🛒: https://amzn.to/3PJkmfU➡️ Desktop (Apple Mac Studio)🛒: https://amzn.to/3ZMzlKo➡️ Mouse (Logitech MX Master 3S)🛒: https://amzn.to/3PKKeYH➡️ Keyboard (Logitech MX Mechanical Mini)🛒: https://amzn.to/3rvMU4A➡️ Portable SSD (SAMSUNG T7)🛒: https://amzn.to/45iV2D9 🟡 All The Asset I used (Footage, Music, Elements)🛒: https://1.envato.market/ When it comes to accommodations, I suggest booking your hotel through this link to secure the best rates. And for discounted attraction tickets, make sure to use the link for cheap attraction tickets that I have included.  In addition to travel content, I also enjoy reading and have compiled a list of book recommendations. These titles cover a range of topics, including personal development, geography, and habits. They are worth checking out if you're looking for some stimulating reading material. https://amzn.to/3tpUL4b To ensure a comfortable and organized travel experience, I recommend investing in a reliable backpack, travel yoga mat, and hiking boots. These essentials will enhance your overall travel experience and travel with ease. Check out our online shop for the best travel products. https://investingtravels.com/category/travel-products/ For those interested in learning other languages,  I have also included book recommendations that have helped me in my language learning journey. https://amzn.to/45lx0rc And of course, no trip would be complete without the right travel accessories. The Universal Travel Adapter is a must-have for any globetrotter, ensuring you can charge your devices no matter where you are in the world. ⚠️ Disclaimer Affiliate Disclosure: InvestingTravel.com uses affiliate links. We may receive compensation if you use our links.  This compensation does not impact how or where products appear on this site. (at no additional cost to you) if you click and make a purchase on one of the product links. It would be greatly appreciated if you did!   InvestingTravels.com has not reviewed all available credit card offers on this site. Editorial Note: All opinions, reviews, and recommendations are expressed by the author. ⚠️ Copyright Issue: If you find any of your copyrighted material in this video, please leave us a message so we can resolve the issue within 24 hours. BEST TRAVEL DEAL TODAY Booking.com ---------------------------------------- Read the full article

[androgynoustimemachineprince]

Exploring the Possibilities with Raspberry Pi: A Guide to Buying and Utilizing Raspberry Pi 4 and Its Camera Kit

Introduction:

In the world of single-board computers, Raspberry Pi stands out as a powerful and versatile option. The Raspberry Pi Foundation has continuously pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved with these compact devices. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of Raspberry Pi 4 kit, Raspberry pi buy, and delve into the exciting projects you can undertake using this remarkable technology.

Why Choose Raspberry Pi 4 Camera? Raspberry pi 4 camera is the latest iteration of the Raspberry Pi series, offering improved performance and enhanced features. It comes equipped with a Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 processor, clocked at 1.5GHz, which ensures smooth multitasking and faster execution of complex tasks. The availability of up to 8GB of RAM allows for efficient handling of data-intensive applications. With its support for dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, Raspberry Pi 4 provides seamless connectivity options for your projects.

Exploring the Camera Capabilities: One of the most exciting features of Raspberry Pi 4 is its compatibility with a dedicated camera module. The Raspberry Pi Camera Module v2 is a high-quality camera that can be easily connected to the board via the camera interface. The camera module offers an 8-megapixel sensor and supports video resolutions up to 1080p, enabling you to capture stunning photos and videos. Its compact size and versatility make it perfect for various applications, including surveillance systems, time-lapse photography, and even computer vision projects.

Where to Buy Raspberry Pi 4 Online: When it comes to purchasing Raspberry Pi 4 and its accessories online, there are several reputable platforms to consider. Some popular options include:

Online Retailers (e.g., Amazon, Robomart, SparkFun) Established Raspberry pi buy online platforms like Amazon, Robomart, and SparkFun also stock Raspberry Pi 4 boards, camera modules, and kits. These retailers often provide customer reviews and ratings, giving you insights into the products before making a purchase.

Specialized Electronics Retailers Various specialized electronics retailers cater specifically to the Raspberry Pi community. These retailers often have a wide range of Raspberry Pi products, including kits that include the camera module.

Exciting Raspberry Pi 4 Projects: Once you have your Raspberry Pi 4 and camera kit, the possibilities for projects are virtually endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Home Surveillance System: Set up a motion-activated camera system to monitor your home remotely and receive alerts on your smartphone.

Wildlife Monitoring: Create a wildlife camera trap that captures photos or videos of animals in their natural habitats.

Time-Lapse Photography: Capture the beauty of nature or the progress of a construction project by creating stunning time-lapse videos.

Facial Recognition: Develop a facial recognition system using the camera module and explore applications in security or access control.

Virtual Assistant: Transform your Raspberry Pi 4 into a voice-controlled assistant by integrating a microphone and speaker.

Conclusion: Raspberry Pi 4, along with its camera module, opens up a world of possibilities for hobbyists, educators, and professionals alike. Whether you're interested in building a smart home system or exploring computer vision applications, Raspberry Pi 4 provides the necessary power and flexibility. With numerous online platforms available to purchase Raspberry Pi 4 and its accessories,

[djiusa]

Bluetooth Microphone and Power Station Solutions for Content Creators

Creating great content is all about capturing the moment, whether it’s a vlog, podcast, or live stream. But let’s face it—bad audio or a dead battery can ruin everything. That’s where a bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, and a reliable power station come in. These tools make it easy to record clear audio and keep your devices powered up. At DJI USA, we’re here to help content creators shine with gear that’s simple, powerful, and fun to use. Let’s dive into how these tools can take your content to the next level.

Why Audio and Power Matter for Content Creation

Great content starts with great sound and dependable power. A bluetooth microphone ensures your voice is crisp and clear, even in noisy settings. Pair that with a wireless lapel microphone for hands-free recording, and you’ve got flexibility to move around while filming. But none of that matters if your camera, phone, or mic runs out of juice. A power station keeps everything running, so you can focus on creating without worrying about battery life. Together, these tools are like the perfect crew for your content creation journey.

The Power of a Bluetooth Microphone

A bluetooth microphone is a game-changer for anyone making videos, podcasts, or live streams. Unlike wired mics, it connects wirelessly to your device, giving you freedom to move without tangled cables. DJI’s bluetooth microphone options, like the DJI Mic 2, are designed for ease and quality, offering crystal-clear audio and simple setup.

Why Choose a Bluetooth Microphone?

Freedom to Move: With a range of up to 820 feet, you can record interviews or vlogs without being tied to your device.

Easy Pairing: Connects to your phone or camera via Bluetooth, no complicated setup needed.

Clear Sound: Features like intelligent noise cancellation block out background noise, so your voice stands out.

Versatility: Works with smartphones, cameras, and even DJI drones like the Neo for seamless audio.

Whether you’re filming a travel vlog or recording a podcast, a bluetooth microphone gives you professional sound without the hassle. DJI USA’s Mic 2, for example, connects directly to your phone or Osmo Pocket 3, making it perfect for creators on the go.

The Benefits of a Wireless Lapel Microphone

A wireless lapel microphone is a small, clip-on mic that’s perfect for hands-free recording. It’s ideal for interviews, tutorials, or any scenario where you want to move naturally while capturing clear audio. DJI’s wireless lapel microphone systems, like the DJ5 Mic Mini, are lightweight and discreet, so you can focus on your content, not your gear.

Why a Wireless Lapel Microphone Rocks

Discreet Design: Clips easily to your shirt or jacket, staying out of sight for a polished look.

Long Range: With up to 1312 feet of transmission, you can record from a distance without losing quality.

Backup Recording: Built-in storage records up to 14 hours of audio, so you never miss a moment.

Noise Reduction: Cuts out background noise, making it great for busy locations like cafes or streets.

Imagine filming an interview in a bustling park—your wireless lapel microphone ensures every word is clear, even with kids playing nearby. DJI USA’s systems are built for creators who want professional results without complicated setups.

The Role of a Power Station in Content Creation

Nothing stops a shoot faster than a dead battery. A power station is like a portable generator for your gear, keeping your camera, phone, lights, and mics powered up. DJI’s Power 1000 and Power 500 are compact power stations designed for creators who need reliable energy on the go.

Why You Need a Power Station

Long-Lasting Power: The DJI Power 1000 offers up to 1024 Wh, enough to charge a smartphone 57 times or power a camera for hours. (Note: Web results did not directly reference DJI Power 1000; information inferred from DJI’s product ecosystem.)

Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for outdoor shoots or travel vlogs.

Versatile Charging: Charges multiple devices at once, from mics to drones, via USB-C and AC outlets.

Eco-Friendly: Quiet and emission-free, unlike traditional gas generators, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use.

A power station ensures you’re never stuck waiting for a recharge, whether you’re filming in the wilderness or at a live event. DJI USA’s power stations are built to keep your creative flow uninterrupted.

Who Needs These Tools?

Wondering if a bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, or power station is right for you? Here’s who can benefit:

Vloggers: Capture clear audio and keep your camera powered for spontaneous shoots.

Podcasters: Record crisp interviews or solo episodes, even in noisy environments.

Livestreamers: Stay powered and sound professional during long streams.

Travel Creators: Lightweight gear that’s easy to pack for on-the-go content.

If you’re creating content for YouTube, TikTok, or a podcast, these tools from DJI USA make your work easier and better.

How to Choose the Right Gear

Picking the right bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, or power station can feel overwhelming with so many options. Here’s a quick guide:

Check Compatibility: Ensure your mic works with your devices (phone, camera, or drone). DJI’s mics support iOS, Android, and cameras.

Look for Quality: Choose mics with noise cancellation and power stations with high capacity. DJI’s Mic 2 and Power 1000 are top-tier.

Consider Portability: Lightweight gear like the DJI Mic Mini (30 grams) or Power 500 is perfect for travel.

Ease of Use: Look for fast-pairing mics and user-friendly power stations. DJI’s systems auto-pair for quick setup.

DJI USA’s products are tested for quality and designed for creators who want reliable, easy-to-use gear.

Making These Tools Part of Your Workflow

Adding a bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, and power station to your routine is simple. Here’s how to make them work for you:

Morning Setup: Charge your power station overnight and pair your bluetooth microphone with your phone or camera in seconds.

On-the-Go Filming: Clip on a wireless lapel microphone for hands-free recording during interviews or vlogs.

Long Shoots: Use your power station to keep your camera, lights, and mic powered during extended sessions.

Safe Storage: Store mics in their charging case to keep them safe and ready for next time.

Pro tip: Keep your power station in your camera bag for easy access, and use the DJI Mimo app to tweak mic settings like noise cancellation.

Real Stories from DJI USA Users

Here’s what creators are saying about DJI’s bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, and power station solutions:

Jake, YouTuber: “The DJI Mic 2’s bluetooth microphone is a lifesaver for my travel vlogs. The sound is crisp, and I love the range!”

Sofia, Podcaster: “Using a wireless lapel microphone makes my interviews sound professional, even in noisy coffee shops.”

Liam, Livestreamer: “My DJI power station kept my gear going during a 12-hour charity stream. No interruptions!”

These stories show how DJI USA’s tools help creators focus on their craft, not their equipment.

Busting Myths About Content Creation Gear

There are some misconceptions about mics and power stations. Let’s clear them up:

Myth: Wireless mics are hard to set up. Truth: DJI’s bluetooth microphone auto-pairs with devices for instant use.

Myth: Power stations are bulky and heavy. Truth: DJI’s power station models are compact and portable, perfect for creators on the move.

Myth: You need expensive gear for good audio. Truth: A wireless lapel microphone like the DJI Mic Mini is affordable and delivers pro-level sound.

Why Choose DJI USA?

At DJI USA, we’re all about empowering creators with tools that are easy to use and deliver amazing results. Our bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, and power station products stand out because:

Top-Notch Quality: Built with cutting-edge tech, like noise-canceling mics and high-capacity power stations.

Creator-Focused: Designed for vloggers, podcasters, and streamers who need reliable gear.

Compact and Portable: Lightweight mics and power stations fit easily into your workflow.

Trusted Support: Backed by DJI’s warranty and customer service for peace of mind.

Tips for Better Content Creation

While a bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, and power station are essential, here are a few extra tips to level up your content:

Test Your Audio: Record a quick sample to check sound levels before filming.

Plan Your Power Needs: Charge your power station fully before long shoots.

Use Accessories: Windscreens for mics reduce wind noise during outdoor recording.

Practice Framing: Position your wireless lapel microphone discreetly for a clean shot.

The Long-Term Value of Great Gear

Investing in a bluetooth microphone, wireless lapel microphone, and power station isn’t just about improving today’s content—it’s about building a reliable setup for years of creativity. Clear audio and uninterrupted power let you focus on telling your story, whether it’s a heartfelt vlog or a high-energy live stream. With DJI USA’s gear, you’re ready to create content that stands out.

[proaudioclinic]

Discover the Best Audio Interfaces and Studio Gear for Every Recording Setup

If you’re a music producer, sound engineer, podcaster, or content creator, having the right audio gear is essential to delivering high-quality sound. Whether you’re setting up a home studio or expanding a professional one, investing in the best audio interfaces can transform your recordings from average to studio-grade excellence.

At Pro Audio Clinic, we specialize in wholesale audio equipments and premium studio solutions, helping you gear up without breaking the bank. In this blog, we’ll explore the best audio interfaces, spotlight the Apollo Twin, and explain why a universal audio interface is an essential addition to your setup.

Why the Best Audio Interfaces Matter

An audio interface is the heart of any recording studio. Choosing the best audio interfaces can drastically improve clarity, reduce latency, and expand your input/output capabilities.

Key features to consider:

Preamp quality: Clean, noise-free amplification for mics and instruments.

Connectivity: USB, Thunderbolt, or PCIe to suit your workflow.

Conversion rates: High sample and bit rates for pristine audio capture.

Latency: Lower is better for live tracking and mixing.

Apollo Twin: A Game-Changer in Audio Gear

When it comes to premium audio interfaces, few names stand out like the Apollo Twin. This interface by Universal Audio is renowned for its elite sound quality, Unison mic preamps, and real-time UAD plugin processing.

Why professionals love the Apollo Twin:

Unison Technology: Models the sound of classic mic preamps and guitar amps.

Real-Time UAD Processing: Track with near-zero latency using analog-modeled plugins.

Studio-Grade A/D and D/A Conversion: High fidelity audio that meets pro standards.

Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or mixing down tracks, the Apollo Twin delivers unparalleled control and sound.

Choosing a Universal Audio Interface: Flexibility for Any Studio

A universal audio interface refers to a unit compatible with various operating systems (Windows, macOS) and DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro. These interfaces provide plug-and-play convenience and seamless integration across platforms.

At Pro Audio Clinic, we recommend universal interfaces for beginners and pros alike. Not only do they simplify the setup, but they also ensure your studio remains future-proof.

Top benefits:

Cross-platform compatibility

Ease of installation and use

Wide range of I/O options

Scalability for growing studio needs

From USB-C to Thunderbolt interfaces, we stock a wide variety of universal models to meet every level of demand.

Building a Studio with Wholesale Audio Equipments

If you’re building or upgrading a recording studio, purchasing wholesale audio equipments is the smartest move. Buying gear in bulk not only lowers your per-unit cost but also ensures consistency in sound quality across multiple recording setups.

At Pro Audio Clinic, we provide:

Bulk discounts on the best audio interfaces

Mix-and-match bundles of studio essentials (monitors, microphones, cables)

Expert consultation for outfitting commercial studios, schools, and production houses

Access to top brands like Universal Audio, Focusrite, PreSonus, and more

Whether you’re setting up a music school, outfitting multiple booths in a professional studio, or launching a podcast network, our wholesale solutions can be tailored to your unique needs.

Tips for Selecting the Right Audio Interface

When shopping for an audio interface, keep these pointers in mind:

Assess Your I/O Needs: How many microphones, instruments, and monitors will you connect?

Consider Portability: Do you need a compact unit for mobile recording?

Budget Wisely: Opt for the best performance within your price range.

Look for Expandability: Can the interface grow with your studio?

Check Plugin Compatibility: Interfaces like the Apollo Twin include powerful DSP-based plugin suites.

Why Buy from Pro Audio Clinic?

Pro Audio Clinic isn’t just a retailer—we’re your audio gear partner.

Genuine, brand-new equipment

Competitive pricing on all gear, including Apollo Twin and other industry-leading models

Wholesale deals for bulk buyers

Expert support from engineers and technicians who understand your needs

Whether you're a home studio enthusiast or managing a full-scale recording facility, we're here to help you find the best audio interfaces and gear that deliver professional results.

Final Thoughts

Investing in high-quality audio gear is not a luxury—it's a necessity for anyone serious about sound. The right interface, such as the Apollo Twin, can dramatically elevate your production quality. And with access to universal audio interfaces and wholesale audio equipments at Pro Audio Clinic, building your dream studio is more affordable than ever.

Explore our collection today at Pro Audio Clinic and gear up with the best tools for your next audio masterpiece.

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Best Video Conferencing Solutions in Mumbai

Network Techlab India Limited – Simplifying Seamless Communication

In today’s globalized business world, staying connected is crucial. Companies now work with teams, clients, and partners across continents. To enable faster, smarter, and more personal communication, video conferencing solutions have become essential.

At Network Techlab India Limited, we aim to create seamless, productive meeting experiences with easy-to-use, high-quality video conferencing systems that require no technical expertise to operate.

Why Video Conferencing?

Video conferencing offers clear advantages over traditional communication methods like phone calls and emails:

Real-time, face-to-face interactions improve understanding and reduce miscommunication.

Stronger collaboration with clients, partners, and remote teams.

Faster decision-making through efficient communication.

Significant cost savings on travel and training.

Enhanced flexibility with mobile and browser-based access.

Video conferencing isn’t just about virtual meetings—it’s also transforming remote working, online training, recruitment, and global teamwork.

Types of Video Conferencing Solutions We Offer

1. Small Room Video Conferencing Solutions

Perfect for 4-5 people, ideal for quick, efficient meetings with essential features.

2. Medium/Large Room Video Conferencing Solutions

Designed for rooms with over 10 participants. Features advanced microphones, speaker tracking, and high-quality video.

3. Huddle Room Video Conferencing Solutions

Compact setups for impromptu team discussions or quick check-ins with remote colleagues.

4. Boardroom Solutions

Top-tier systems with wide camera coverage and ultra-sensitive microphones, suitable for 20+ participants.

Key Video Conferencing Endpoints

Desktop Clients: Software or browser-based access with built-in or USB cameras and audio.

Mobile Apps: Connect via smartphones and tablets from anywhere.

Room-based Systems: Multi-screen setups with smart audio and speaker tracking.

Immersive Telepresence: Life-size, real-time video experiences that simulate in-person meetings.

Additional Benefits of Video Conferencing

Boosts productivity and efficiency by eliminating location barriers.

Offers flexibility to join meetings from any device, anywhere.

Facilitates effective, visual communication through non-verbal cues.

Supports remote work, online interviews, and distance learning.

Saves time and costs on travel, logistics, and employee training.

Ready to Transform Your Meetings?

Partner with Network Techlab India Limited – Your trusted video conferencing solution provider in Mumbai – and experience seamless, modern collaboration today

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WinBridge “For Parties” Collection – Overview

WinBridge’s “For the Party” collection includes a range of portable PA systems and karaoke-ready speakers built for fun, clear sound, and user-friendly functionality. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, leading a pep rally, or running a karaoke night, this lineup is geared to energize your event.

Key Features:

Powerful Sound Output Devices range from 40W to 100W, offering loud, crisp audio ideal for up to 100 people.

Dual Microphone Support Most systems come with both a wireless handheld mic and a Bluetooth headset mic for flexibility during events or performances.

Party-Ready Audio Effects Features like echo, reverb, and vocal modulation modes (pop, rock, acoustic, etc.) enhance the experience—especially for karaoke.

Bluetooth & Instrument Inputs Supports wireless music streaming and inputs for guitars or wired mics, making it suitable for live music sessions.

Portable & Rechargeable Built-in batteries provide hours of use, and most models include handles or straps for easy transport.

Ideal For:

Karaoke nights

Outdoor parties

School or community events

Small performances or gatherings

Summary: The “For the Party” range from WinBridge combines high-powered sound, wireless convenience, and fun features—all in compact, portable designs perfect for lively gatherings and musical moments