#ID card solutions

[secureidprint]

Creating Custom ID Cards and Employee ID Badges

Businesses and organizations rely on ID cards and employee badges for identification, access control, and branding. Advances in ID card printing technology allow creating customized cards in-house. This guide covers tips for designing and printing great custom employee IDs.

Why Issue Custom Employee ID Badges?

Here are some key reasons organizations should invest in customized ID badges for staff:

Security – ID badges enhance security by clearly identifying authorized personnel. They can limit building and system access.

Identification – Custom cards can be designed with employee photos, names, titles, departments, and other details for easy visual ID.

Access Control – Integrated technologies like smart chips, magstripes, and barcodes help control access to facilities and systems.

Branding – Consistent branding reinforces corporate image. Custom IDs represent an organization more professionally than generic cards.

Membership – Badges make employees feel part of the organization. They demonstrate membership status and privileges.

Professionalism – IDs must be worn by customer-facing staff. They project professionalism and allow for better customer interactions.

Metrics – Usage tracking provides data on employee activity levels, presence, etc. This supports human resources and operations.

Key Elements of Employee ID Badges

Well-designed staff ID badges should include:

Photograph – The employee’s photo enables facial recognition and personalization.

Name – Legibly printed first and last names. Nicknames or informal names are generally unsuitable.

Title – Including job titles provides context.

Department – Listing the employee’s department conveys organizational structure.

Employee ID number – Unique staff numbers enable database tracking.

Company logo – Adds branding and reinforces corporate identity.

Card background – Visual elements like brand colors make cards more attractive and professional.

Expiry date – Prevent expired cards from granting access.

Contactless/barcode – Support building access, system login, tracking, etc.

Security elements – Visual security features like holograms help prevent counterfeiting.

How to Design Great Custom Employee ID Badges

Follow these tips for ID badge designs that impress:

Use company branding – Include logos, colors, and fonts aligned with brand guidelines for consistency.

Focus on essentials – Only highlight absolutely necessary info like photo, name, department, expiry, etc. Avoid clutter.

Use large text – Text should be prominent and legible from a distance. Sans-serif fonts work best.

Add visual interest – Make use of color, graphics, icons and other elements for visual pop.

Include security features – Holograms, specialty inks, microtext, guilloche patterns all help thwart counterfeiting.

Leave white space – Don’t overcrowd designs. Borders and spacing improve aesthetics and readability.

Get employee input – Consider allowing staff to provide their preferred name or photo. This boosts satisfaction.

Proof carefully – Double check names, titles, ID numbers, expiry dates, and other info for errors before printing.

Test card designs – Verify designs render properly through test prints before full production.

Great card design software simplifies creating stunning customized ID badge designs even without graphic design expertise.

Options for Printing Custom Employee ID Badges

There are several options for producing ID cards and staff badges:

Outsource production – Card printers and badge manufacturers can produce high volumes. This avoids equipment costs.

Purchase ID card printer – Mid-volume needs can justify investing in an in-house badge printing system for convenience and security.

Use PVC card stock – Standard blank white PVC cards work for basic IDs. They offer reduced cost.

Upgrade card material – More durable composites or polyethylene cards better withstand wear.

Add holographic laminates – Applying holographic overlays enhances security and attractiveness.

Print single-sided – Most IDs only require printing on the front. This saves supply costs.

Print dual-sided – Additional info and security elements can be added to the backside.

Encoding – Smart chip or magstripe encoding provides advanced functionality.

Evaluate business needs and ID card volumes to determine the most suitable production methods.

Equipping Your In-House ID Badge Printing Station

To set up ID card printing in-house:

Get a reliable badge printer – Leading vendors include Zebra, Fargo, Evolis, Magicard, IDP, and others. Consider print speeds, features, and volumes.

Use high-quality supplies – Use only approved cards, ribbons, laminates to prevent printer issues and poor print quality.

Install badge design software – User-friendly software simplifies creating and printing badge designs. May come bundled with printer.

Train staff on software – Ensure employees tasked with card design know how to operate the software effectively.

Implement security procedures – Blank cards and supplies should be securely stored with limited access to prevent unauthorized use.

Plan card distribution – New employee badges will need to be efficiently delivered to HR or managers for issuance.

Budget for supplies – Factor in ongoing supply costs for cards, ribbons, laminates, cleaning kits, etc.

A proper ID card printing setup makes producing employee ID badges fast, convenient, and secure.

Issuing New Employee ID Badges

Here are some best practices for providing new staff members with ID badges:

Capture employee photos – Have new hires get professionally photographed or submit an approved headshot for the badge.

Gather personal details – Obtain legal names, titles, departments and any other info required for badge creation.

Create badge proofs – Mock up final badge proofs for employee approval before printing the actual card.

Confirm details are accurate – Employees should verify all printed badge details are exactly right before issuance.

Print and finish cards – Produce the cards according to the established design guidelines and policies. Apply any overlaminates or encoding.

Organize formal issuance – HR, managers, or security teams should handle badge issuance during onboarding. Review policies.

Destroy expired cards – Any old IDs turned in should be shredded or otherwise destroyed to prevent misuse.

Replace lost cards – Staff should immediately report lost badges so replacement cards can be issued. This maintains security.

Following a structured system for new and replacement ID issuance is key for maintaining an effective company credentialing program.

Why Properly Maintain ID Card Printers

To keep employee ID badge printers functioning optimally:

Perform cleaning – Regular cleaning maintains print quality and prevents debris buildup. Use cleaning kits.

Replace used supplies – Promptly install new ribbons, laminates, etc. when existing ones are depleted. Generic supplies cause issues.

Calibrate periodically – Recalibrate the printer every few months or if cards are misaligned or damaged.

Update firmware – Install updated printer firmware when available to fix bugs and improve performance.

Protect from dirt/liquids – Don’t set up printers in dusty or spill-prone areas. Keep covered.

Follow maintenance schedule – Stick to manufacturer guidelines for cleaning printheads, sensors, rollers, etc.

Inspect finished cards – Check completed cards in output hoppers so any potential issues are caught early.

Contact technical support – If print quality declines or other problems arise, contact the vendor for troubleshooting help.

Proper printer care and maintenance helps avoid downtime and quality problems that impair production of employee ID badges.

Key Takeaways for Custom Employee ID Cards

Well-designed custom IDs represent organizations more professionally.

Essential elements include photos, names, titles, logos, and security features.

ID printers allow convenient in-house production and customization.

Proper badge design software, supplies, and training help set up ID card printing.

Following structured new badge issuance and replacement procedures bolsters security.

Printers must be cleaned and maintained to avoid print quality or card feeding issues.

With professional custom-designed ID cards for employees, organizations can build branding, improve security, and elevate professionalism across the board.

[idcardservices]

ID Card Services: Elevating Security and Efficiency with Expert ID Card Printing Services

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of identity management, ID card services have become indispensable for organizations seeking secure and efficient solutions. This article delves into the world of ID card services, emphasizing the pivotal role played by expert ID card printing services in providing tailored and reliable identification solutions.

Unveiling the Essence of ID Card Services

Beyond Traditional Identification

ID card services encompass a spectrum of solutions designed to go beyond traditional identification. From thoughtful design to advanced security features, these services aim to provide organizations with versatile tools for enhancing security, streamlining processes, and fostering a sense of community.

The Components of Effective ID Card Services

1. Design and Personalization

At the core of every effective ID card service is thoughtful design. Expert ID card printing services facilitate the creation of cards that not only meet security standards but also reflect the unique identity and brand of the organization.

2. Advanced Security Features

Security is paramount in ID card services. Professional services integrate advanced features like holographic overlays, biometric elements, and encrypted data to fortify cards against unauthorized access and counterfeiting.

3. Multi-Functional Capabilities

Modern ID card services go beyond mere identification. Integration with access control systems, time and attendance tracking, and even cashless transactions contribute to a multifunctional approach that enhances efficiency.

The Role of Expert ID Card Printing Services

Precision in Printing

ID card services demand precision in printing. Expert services ensure that each card is printed accurately, capturing the intricacies of design and security features with fidelity.

Consultation and Customization

Expert services offer consultation on the optimal design and functionality of ID card services. They understand the unique needs of each organization, providing customized solutions that align with specific requirements.

Enhancing Efficiency Through ID Card Services

1. Streamlined Processes

ID card services streamline various processes within an organization. From access control to time management, these services contribute to efficiency and workflow optimization.

2. Visitor Management

ID card services extend beyond employees to visitor management. Temporary cards can be issued, allowing controlled access to visitors while maintaining overall security.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ID card services represent a comprehensive approach to identity management, incorporating design, security, and functionality. Expert ID card printing services play an indispensable role in ensuring that these services are not only reliable but also tailored to meet the unique needs of each organization.

[effemimaniac]

hmmmm I want to wear a dress to the gig tomorrow but I don't want to wear my coat because that's too cumbersome, which will leave me without any pockets... what to do about storage... I used to have this nice small shoulder bag which was good for situations like this but it's messed up now and the only bags I have now r like, handbag handbags that you have to hold. don't want that. maybe I should do a circuit of a few op shops today to try to find something lol

[snickeringdragon]

ive been a bit busy

[flexiweb2print]

All that You Want to Realize About Book Printing

Book printing is a urgent move toward rejuvenating your scholarly magnum opus. Whether you're a hopeful writer or a carefully prepared distributer, understanding the book printing cycle can assist you with exploring this fundamental stage successfully.

Kinds of Book Printing

Counterbalance Printing: Ideal for huge print runs, offset printing offers great and cost-viability. It includes moving ink from a plate to an elastic cover, then onto paper.

Computerized Printing: Appropriate for more modest print amounts, advanced printing takes into account on-request printing with fast completion times and the capacity to modify each duplicate.

Steps in Book Printing

Prepress: This stage includes setting up the composition for printing, including designing, editing, and making print-prepared records.

Printing: When the documents are prepared, they are moved to the print machine where the genuine printing process happens in view of the picked technique.

Restricting: In the wake of printing, the sheets are accumulated and bound together. Normal restricting strategies incorporate wonderful restricting (stuck spine) and seat sewing (stapled spine).

Contemplations for Book Printing

Quality: Pick a printing strategy that lines up with your financial plan and quality assumptions.

Amount: Decide the quantity of duplicates required, taking into account factors like market interest and spending plan imperatives.

Paper and Cover Choices: Select the paper type and cover finish that best suits your book's substance and interest group.

Advantages of Expert Book Printing

Proficient Appearance: Top notch printing upgrades the visual allure of your book, making it more appealing to perusers and retailers.

Customization: Advanced printing considers personalization and customization, taking care of specialty markets and explicit peruser inclinations.

Circulation: Cooperating with an expert printer can smooth out dissemination processes, guaranteeing your books arrive at perusers proficiently.

End

Excelling at book printing is fundamental for writers and distributers the same. By understanding the different printing techniques, steps included, and key contemplations, you can guarantee that your book hangs out concerning quality, appearance, and peruser fulfillment.

Whether you're printing your most memorable novel or dealing with a distributing house, picking the right printing accomplice and technique can have a significant effect in carrying your scholarly vision to completion.

[harshmishra8726]

Benefits of Using a PVC Card Printer for Your Business

From corporate offices to educational institutions and healthcare facilities, PVC cards, often called plastic cards, have become an integral part of our daily lives. But have you ever wondered how these PVC ID cards are created? Businesses worldwide are discovering the benefits of PVC cards. Due to their smooth surface, they require printers other than traditional consumer-grade inkjet or laser printers. For example, a large company needed a better way to manage employee IDs and ensure security. By using PVC card printers, they could quickly create custom IDs with employee details and company logos. These cards made controlling who could enter different areas of their buildings easier, boosting security and making everyone feel more connected to the company.

Benefits Across Industries

Customization and Branding: PVC card printers enable businesses to customize cards with logos, colors, and personalized details, reinforcing brand identity and professionalism across all sectors.

Enhanced Security: Advanced security features like magnetic stripes, RFID technology, and biometric encoding ensure secure access control, protecting sensitive information and assets.

Operational Efficiency: By allowing on-demand card production, PVC card printers streamline administrative processes, reduce dependency on external vendors, and minimize operational disruptions.

Cost Effectiveness: Internalizing card production with PVC card printers reduces outsourcing costs, minimizes waste, and ensures timely card replacements, optimizing resource management.

Environmental Sustainability: PVC card printers support eco-friendly practices by reducing plastic waste through efficient card production processes and promoting digital record-keeping.

In conclusion, PVC card printers serve as versatile tools that enhance operational efficiency, security, and sustainability across diverse industries. Whether used for employee identification, student access, patient management, or customer engagement, PVC cards play a pivotal role in modern-day business operations. Embracing PVC card printers improves organizational workflows, reinforces brand integrity, and supports sustainable business practices. By investing in PVC card printers, businesses can elevate their operational standards and foster lasting connections with stakeholders in today’s competitive market.

[futurefind]

//Anyway I hope the oc inspo post helped you understand Sa better... No questions you never thought you'd needed answered like:

"why's sa duo element. not less nor more?" ygo card. not even an anime one.

"whats with her bg?" naruto uzumaki tbh

"and the fangs angy eyes etc??" also naruto uzumaki lmfao

"whys her kit so codified' dgm, baybee!!! canon hyperfixation of all time

"ok... why tf is she a TSUN?" enrichment sasuke

"why sword" link loz tp

[alsaurus-loves-dean]

.

[mmsmartcard]

student id cards for schools in Dwarka

Boost convenience, streamline processes, and foster school pride with personalized, durable cards designed to your unique needs. Contact MMSmartcards today and unlock a smarter, safer future for your students

[femmefatalevibe]

Femme Fatale Guide: Purse Essentials For Day & Night (or Any Activity In Between)

Daytime Handbag Essentials:

Keys

Wallet/cardholder (ID[s], credit/debit cards, spare cash – enough for an emergency cab/train ticket, a bottle of water, and a cheap snack plus a little extra is my formula)

Phone/phone charger

Airpods/headphones

Mini sunscreen

Hand lotion

Floss picks in a travel floss dispenser

Mini disposable toothbrushes

Breath mints

Portable stain remover wipes

Hand sanitizer

Lip balm/your everyday lip color

Eyeliner

Brow pencil

Power foundation

Contour/blush stick

Oil blotting sheets

Roll-on perfume

Hair ties

Foldable mini hair brush

Feminine hygiene wipes

Panty liners/pads/tampons

Travel case bandaids

Condoms (not in a wallet, please)

A pen or two

Portable sticky notes

Travel pack of tissues

Spare glasses/contacts & contact solution

Sunglasses

OTC pain relief medicine

Water bottle

Non-perishable snacks (I recommend Larabars, Lupini beans/roasted chickpeas/edamame, roasted nuts/trail mix snack packs, Lupii/Raw Rev vegan protein bars, and freeze-dried fruit)

Nighttime Handbag Essentials:

Keys

Wallet/cardholder (ID[s], credit/debit cards, spare cash – enough for an emergency cab/train ticket, a bottle of water, and a cheap snack plus a little extra is my formula)

Phone/portable phone charger

Mini sunscreen

Hand lotion

Floss picks in a travel floss dispenser

Mini disposable toothbrushes

Breath mints

Portable stain remover wipes

Hand sanitizer

Lip balm/your everyday lip color

Eyeliner

Brow pencil

Mini power foundation

Roll-on perfume

Hair ties

Foldable mini hair brush

Feminine hygiene wipes

Panty liner (and maybe a pad/tampon, depending on the time of the month)

Portable makeup remover wipe (or two)

Portable cleansing towelette (or two)

Travel case bandaids

Condoms (at least two – not in a wallet, please)

Disposable foot socks

OTC pain relief medicine

Vitamin B-complex, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D supplement (one of each – for after or the morning after drinking)

Necessary Edit: This list is meant to be a comprehensive guide, designed to be personalized. If you don't think you need some of these items, [pick and choose at your discretion].

[secureidprint]

A Comprehensive Guide to ID Card Printing

ID cards play an important role in identifying individuals in schools, workplaces, events, and more. With advances in printing technology, it's now easier than ever for organizations to create customized ID cards onsite. This guide will explore everything you need to know about ID card printing.

What is ID Card Printing?

ID card printing refers to the process of printing personalized identification cards on blank card stock. It typically involves using a direct-to-card printer (DTC) that can print full-color images, text, logos, barcodes, and more directly onto the cards.

DTC printers offer many benefits over traditional offset printing for ID cards:

Fast turnaround: Cards can be printed on demand as needed, without having to wait for an external print shop.

Customization: Organizations can fully design and personalize the ID cards.

Security: Sensitive data can be kept in-house.

Convenience: New employees can get ID cards printed immediately. Lost or damaged cards can be replaced quickly.

Why Do Organizations Need ID Cards?

There are many reasons why companies, schools, and other organizations need identification cards:

Security – ID cards allow controlling access to facilities and events. Cards can contain RFID chips, barcodes, or magstripes.

Identification – They enable quickly identifying employees, students, event attendees, etc. This improves security and efficiency.

Information – ID cards store useful data like names, ID numbers, departments, access levels, and more.

Branding – Organizations can reinforce their brand by including logos, colors, and other branding elements.

Membership – ID cards serve as a membership card and proof that someone is affiliated with the organization.

Tracking – Usage tracking, time tracking, and other metrics can be tied to the ID card.

Key Components of an ID Card Printer

Direct-to-card printers contain several important components that enable printing directly onto blank cards:

Card feeder – This is the input tray that holds the blank cards and feeds them into the printer one at a time.

Printhead – The printhead contains ink cartridges and precision print nozzles that print the graphics, text, and other elements onto the card's surface.

Encoder – The encoder writes information to the card’s magstripe or RFID chip.

Lamination module – Some printers apply lamination to cards for protection and security.

Cleaning station – Rollers clean and remove debris from card surfaces before printing.

Card flipper – Units that print both card sides contain a mechanism to flip the card over.

Output hopper – The newly printed cards are deposited into the output tray.

ID Card Printer Features

Today's ID card printers offer many features and options:

Single- or dual-sided printing – Print on just the front or both sides of the cards.

Full-color printing – All modern direct-to-card printers offer full-color printing. Most use dye-sublimation for photorealistic images.

Magnetic stripe encoding – The printer can encode magstripes with data that can then be swiped through readers.

Contactless card encoding – Smart card chips and antennas can be encoded with data for contactless ID badges used in access control systems.

Lamination – Applying lamination protects printed cards from wear and tear.

Connectivity – ID printers usually connect via USB or Ethernet and come with card design software.

Print speed – Print speeds generally range from about 100 to over 1,000 cards per hour.

ID Card Printing Supplies

Printing ID cards requires certain supplies, most importantly:

Blank cards – You’ll need blank card stock made of PVC or PET plastic. Cards come in different styles and thicknesses.

ID card ribbons – Ribbons contain the color panels used during dye-sublimation printing. YMC with resin black panels are common.

Lamination pouches – Transparent laminate pouches are applied to card surfaces to protect printing.

Cleaning supplies – Cleaning kits and swabs help clean the printhead and rollers.

Magstripe cards – You’ll need blank cards with magnetic stripes for encoding.

Smart cards – These have embedded RFID chips and antennas for contactless encoding.

It’s important to use only approved supplies that meet your printer manufacturer’s specifications to ensure optimal print quality and performance.

ID Card Printer Costs

Here are the main costs associated with ID card printing:

ID card printer – Printer prices range widely from about $1,000 to $5,000 or more depending on features, print speeds, etc. Additional options like magstripe or smart card encoding increase costs.

Supplies – Ongoing costs for blank cards, ribbons, laminate, and other supplies need to be factored in. These are usually fairly inexpensive per card.

Software – Many ID printers include card design software. More full-featured software ranges from about $500 to thousands for enterprise systems.

Training – Some training on the printer operation and software is recommended to get started.

Overall, ID card printing offers tremendous convenience and professional results at relatively affordable costs for most organizations. For large volumes, outsourcing production may have advantages over in-house printing.

How to Design ID Cards

The first step in ID card printing is designing the cards. Here are some best practices for ID card design:

Include organization branding like logos, colors, and fonts to maintain consistency.

Make sure text is legible by using sans serif fonts and reasonable font sizes.

Use both text and photos/graphics – don’t make it text-heavy.

Focus on key information like names, titles, ID numbers, departments, expiry date, etc.

Front-load important info at the top/front of cards.

Use white space and borders to segment content.

Make any barcodes large and scannable.

Provide visual cues like color coding for easy identification.

Keep it simple. Avoid cluttering the design.

Proofread content closely before finalizing designs.

Consider both aesthetics and functionality.

Using ID card template software simplifies otherwise complex design work. Work with your printer vendor to verify card designs before printing.

How to Set Up an ID Card Printing System

Here are some tips for setting up ID card printing in-house:

Choose a dependable, high-quality ID card printer that fits your volume needs and feature requirements. Top vendors include Zebra, Fargo, Magicard, Evolis, and IDP.

Buy supplies like blank cards, ribbons, and laminate from reputable sources to avoid quality issues.

Install print driver software and card design software that comes with your printer.

Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the printer’s operation and maintenance requirements.

Establish ID card design standards and templates for consistency.

Train staff on designing and printing ID cards properly.

Store blank cards and supplies securely with limited access.

Plan for distribution of finished ID cards to new personnel.

Budget for ongoing card and supply replenishment. Factor in defect rates.

Schedule periodic printer maintenance and calibration to maximize uptime.

Maintaining Your ID Card Printer

To keep your ID card printer running smoothly:

Perform cleaning cycles regularly using cleaning kits. This maintains print quality.

Replace spent ribbons and laminate pouches promptly. Use only approved supplies.

Calibrate the printer as needed if print alignment drifts or cards aren’t being fed properly.

Update printer firmware when new versions are released to fix bugs and improve performance.

Don't expose the printer to dust, debris, liquids, or extremes of temperature or humidity. Keep covered when not in use.

Establish a maintenance schedule for tasks like cleaning the printhead, rollers, and sensors.

Visually inspect cards in the output hopper for defects so any printer issues can be caught early.

If print quality declines, try cleaning the printhead more aggressively and replacing old ribbons.

For smart card encoding issues, try cleaning the encoder head with a fiberglass pencil.

Taking good care of your ID card printer will ensure maximum uptime and print quality. Most issues can be resolved by keeping the printer clean and well-maintained.

Troubleshooting ID Card Printing Issues

Some common ID card printing issues and solutions:

Blank cards – The ribbon is finished or not installed correctly. Replace the ribbon.

Partial printing – Clean the printhead and check ribbon alignment.

Blurry printing – Clean the printhead, rollers, and cards. Calibrate the printer.

Misaligned printing – Realign and calibrate the printhead. Check card thickness.

Card jams – Clear the card path. Clean rollers and sensors. Lube the card feeder.

Encoding errors – Clean the encoder head. Check the card positioning.

Driver errors – Update printer drivers and card design software. Reinstall if needed.

** connectivity issues** – Check cabling, ports, and Ethernet connections. Update firmware.

Feed problems – Clean the card feeder components. Lubricate per manual instructions.

For any persistent issues, contact your printer vendor for support. Provide photos, videos, or sample defective cards to aid troubleshooting.

Key Takeaways on ID Card Printing

Direct-to-card printers allow fast, high-quality card printing in-house.

Proper ID cards enhance security, identification, tracking, and more.

Printer options include dual-sided printing, encoding, and lamination.

Supplies include blank cards, ribbons, laminate pouches, and cleaning kits.

Design focuses on organization branding and key cardholder information.

Proper printer care includes maintenance, calibration, and using approved supplies.

Support from printer vendors can help resolve any issues not fixable in-house.

With a quality ID card printing system and reliable supplies, organizations can produce personalized IDs reliably, quickly, and affordably.

[rudeflower]

you need a library card

Almost everyone I know doesn't have a library card, and some of them read less than they want to because they can't afford to buy the books they want???? GUYS BIG SOLUTION TIME

BOOKS! Audiobooks! DVDS! Movie/series/documentary streaming services! Ebooks! Video games! Magazines!

Air conditioning! Wifi! Heat! Meeting rooms to reserve! Copy machines! Printers! Quiet safe place!

FOR FREE! FOR FREE! NO COST! FOR FREE!!!

Let's face is inflation is killing us, and you may have had to sacrifice buying books for fun, keeping the heat at a comfortable temp, cancel a few subscriptions. Enter your library card

"I don't have time to go a library" me neither I use the audiobook and ebook app daily and check out digital books and get them on my phone immediately

"I want to support the author" If you like it then you buy it! You don't have to pay up front for something you might not like ten pages in! Buy a book you know you love even if you don't plan to reread it to support the author!

"I don't want to wait for a book" Fair enough then don't, check out the books you can wait for

This world has home, where you pay to be, and very very few places outside of the home that you don't have to pay to be. If you're losing your head and need to get out for a few hours, you have to pay to exist almost anywhere you want to go. Not libraries.

I've gone to libraries weekly, almost daily at times, my whole life and they have never once asked anything of me. They give.

This world takes and takes and takes and libraries give and give and give and you deserve to be given lovely things.

It is not hard to get a library card, for most people. In most places I've lived you need some form of evidence you live in the area the library serves, and I've brought in a piece of mail, a student ID or an electric bill and been good to go. Many libraries also work with people who don't have documentation like this to get one anyway.

Get a library card even if you don't think you'll use it. Because one day there will be a book you really want that your local bookstore doesn't have, but who has it? THE LIBRARY! GO GET IT!

This is a USA centric post, and also goes out to my non-American cousins who taught me that libraries are a beautiful gift and not a given, and we should take advantage of it more often than we do

Get a library card, love yourself

[moody-alcoholic]

Truth

I am not ignorant to the fact I’m writing a gay sex scene and everyone is hanging out in Syria. Resources below.

Guardians of Equality Movement

Syria LGBTQI+ Resources

Equaldex LGBT rights in Syria

I cant stop writing for this series. Every time I say I'll take a break I pump out another outline...

MDNI +18 content

Summary: Ghoap x Reader, throuple. Slow burn (sorry but not sorry). 2.7k words. Reader is female (she/her), army nurse, non descript physical features, names used: Ashe.

CW: MDNI +18 content Mentions of torture, torture, smut, blowjob (male receiving & giving), language. First proper Johnny x Simon scene, IDK it just felt right...

Previous parts - masterlist - next part

Enjoy <3

Johnny was grabbing something to eat in the canteen when he watched Ghost walked over to him. He knew something was wrong, he had that cold look in his eyes. The one he gets when he has to focus on the job and nothing else matters, not even him. Johnny swallowed hard standing up to meet Ghost. 

“Come.” It’s all he says but it makes the hairs stand up on the back of Johnny’s neck. Johnny follows they walk into an observation room. Johnny gasps when he sees you handcuffed the table head hanging down.

“What happened?” Johnny asked looking round the room his eyes falling on Jack who’s stood there arms crossed. 

“We believe she’s responsible for the murder of the doctor.” Jack says. Johnny laughs, looking around at everyone else being serious.

“Christ, what’s the evidence?” Johnny asked.

“Her ID was used to withdraw large amounts of insulin which is believed to be the cause of death.” Johnny looked at Jack shocked then at Price. 

“Has she said anything?” Johnny asked feeling sick. There is no way you did that, this has to be a set up, something… Johnny just knew it in his gut, you were innocent.

“No, she’s not talking.” Price said, Johnny could hear something in his voice. Sadness? Annoyance?

“I heard you are very good at your job lieutenant,” Jack says taking a step closer to Ghost. 

“‘Pends on what you heard.” Ghost replies remaining still, looking through the one way glass you’ve not moved, not wanting them to see your pained expression.

“I heard you can get people to talk, and we really need her to talk.” Jack says. 

“We can try other ways before sending Ghost in.” Price says. Jack scoffs.

“If she’s been trained by the enemy she won’t break.” He says walking to the door. 

“You have 24 hours to get her to talk or you’re out of here.” Everyone looked at Price. He went to sit down.

“You heard him, make her talk.” Price says.

“We don’t torture innocent people.” Ghost’s voice is level, he still hasn’t moved. 

“We’re not torturing anyone just question her you’ve got to buy me some time, look like you’re doing your jobs so I can figure out a solution.” Price sighs.    

“It’s wrong.” Johnny says. Price sighs again getting up. 

“LT, Gaz go to security I want anything you can find, from the moment she wakes up in the morning to the second she’s asleep. She takes a piss I want to know about it, where her card was swiped who has seen her anything, and quickly before Jack can replace staff.” Price says as he walks over to Johnny. 

“Come on let’s go have a chat with her, maybe she’ll tell us something useful” Price says his hand on Johnny’s shoulder. Johnny knows Price is trying to calm him but there is nothing on the face of the world right not that can slow his mind. He looks back through the window, guilt rises up as Ghost and Gaz leave the room. It’s times like this Johnny envies Simon being able to hide his face. Price squeezes his shoulder he looks in Price’s eyes, they look sad understanding. It doesn't make Johnny feel any better.

—————————— 

You can’t look at Simon’s eyes when he’s the room, the caramel eyes you used to lose yourself in, they’re just dark now, dark and uncaring. Johnny’s in sometimes, he won’t even look at you let alone in your eyes any more, the eyes you used to look in for comfort, love, hope. You don’t know what's worse. Price is the one who questions you, always the same questions. 

How did you do it? 

Why did you do it? 

Who do you work for? 

How long have you known about 141? 

Did you get close to them on purpose? 

Did you use them to get information on 141? 

Why?

He never says their names, Johnny, Simon. It’s always just ‘them’ he doesn’t have to say their names, you know who he means. Maybe you did betray them? Maybe this was all your fault? 

By the second day you can’t remember the doctors name, just the fact he’s leaving a kid and a wife behind. You’re moved into a windowless cell, you’re woken up at random times, you’re starting to lose track of time. It’s only after what you think is the third day it becomes violent. Jack is the only one who’s violent, he’s around a lot more, there are new questions. 

Why this base? 

Why now? 

Do you know anything about the arms sales to Al-qatala? 

Have you ever been to Urzikstan? 

Why kill an innocent doctor? 

Why insulin? 

Why are you betraying 141? 

Why?

Jack is the only one who will look you in the eye, he likes to look you in the eyes but he’s not kind. You become numb to the attacks, the repetitiveness of the torture, you hate that word, torture, it makes you feel guilty. You’re not guilty. Or maybe you are. 

“I wouldn’t use insulin.” You say after a particularly rough session. 

“What’s that?” jack asks, his face up in yours but you can still only just make out his features, nose, lips, chin, in your blurry haze he just looks angry. 

“If I was going to kill him I wouldn’t use insulin, too easy to be traced.” He doesn't like that answer, he doesn’t like anything you say if it’s true or not. 

You enjoy Gaz’s visit’s, he’s the member of 141 you had not met yet, he brings you food, soup or rice mostly. He doesn't question you, doesn't talk to you. Just tries to feed you food, or at least swallow gulps of water that burn your throat. He doesn’t need to do this for you, you don’t know him, he makes you feel strangely guilty. You used to spit out the food not accepting anything from him, when he said they would start tube feeding you, you relented accepting the spoonful's of thick soup or rice and beans. He’s got kind eyes. 

You don’t see Simon or Johnny anymore, maybe they’ve given up on you, maybe they don’t care. Jack tells you they don’t care. Price is there sometimes you think, it’s getting harder to tell, the passage of time becoming almost impossible to follow, you think it’s been 3 days, maybe 4, maybe 5. Your stomach growls, you haven’t seen the sunlight in days. Your body hurts from being upright all the time. 

“You should give her a break.” It’s Simon’s voice that pulls you out of your half conscious state. You see him stood in the door way, all black, his face covered. It’s not the voice you know, not the kind voice you’re used to it’s something different. It makes you shiver, makes the hairs stand up on your body. You try not to cry, only letting tears fall down your face after Gaz has been, then you know you’ll be left alone for a few hours. You don’t want to let them break you but it’s becoming harder to think.    

Someone bursts bursts through the door to the room pinning Jack to the wall. The noise makes you jump and you try to lift your head up but it’s too hard, your neck hurts. You blink hearing shouting, then you feel hands on your face, it feels like Johnny’s hands they’re warm he’s forcing you to look at his face. Everything is blurry you try to squint. You feel movement behind you. 

“I’m so sorry it took us so long love.” It’s Johnny’s voice you’re sure, your head is spinning though, you can’t tell. Your eyes move past Johnny, you think you see Simon, you think that’s him, you feel your head slump in Johnny’s hand as your restraints are cut lose. You must of blacked out for a second because the next thing you know is being on the floor. Johnny scoops you up in his arms and you lean up against his chest. 

“it's over now, we've got you.” Johnny whispers in your ears. You’re blinded by lights as Johnny carries you out to the room to the medbay. You recognise the smell, that’s a good thing you’re not totally broken, you can smell the clean sheets, the smell of antiseptic. There are hands all over you now, people touching you, so many lights. You reach for Johnny, where did he go? You start to panic trying to pull yourself up. Is it a trick? Are they doing this to finally try and break you? 

“Johnny!” You call searching for his hands. You feel a sharp pain travel down your arm. You feel your breath catch in your throat, your body being pressed down. Maybe this is the end you’re in too much pain and too tired to tell. You feel your body slump down as ringing grows louder in your ears, it doesn’t take long before everything goes black. 

——————————   

Johnny wakes to Simon’s hands on his shoulders. He looks over at your body still unconscious, still with tubes shoved down your throat. Simon pulls a chair up next to him, Simon’s started caring less and less who sees them together, especially at night. 

“The doc’s say the swelling in her head’s gone down.” Johnny says leaning forward in his chair.

“When was the last time you slept?” Simon asks him. 

“Got a nice kip before you woke me.” Johnny replies. Simon sighs, his hand running up the back of Johnny’s neck. 

“You really should get some sleep, some proper sleep.” Simon says. Johnny scoffs. 

“4 days,” he says, looking back up at you. 

“4 day’s, we let her suffer.” Johnny says quieter. Simon sighs his forehead resting on Johnny. Simon know’s how guilty Johnny feels, he feels the same too, he’s just better at hiding it. 

“Come.” Simon says getting up extending his hand out for Johnny. Johnny looks up at him blinking. 

“Give me five minutes.” Simon pleads. Johnny sighs standing up and following him. He lets Simon guide him all the way to the dorms into Simon’s room. Johnny has never left the bedside since you had been moved to Damascus. Simon had tried to get some alone time with him but he can tell Johnny’s guilt weighs heavy on his shoulders, he want’s to be there when you wake.

Simon pulls Johnny into his room, locking the door. Johnny tries to protest but Simon is too quick, his hands guiding Johnny’s hips pushing him against the wall. Simon’s hand slips under the front of his mask pulling it off over his head, he looks up at Johnny his thumb stroking his cheek. Simon looks almost sad, he can see the pain in Johnny’s eyes, the anger, he feels it too.

Simon presses his lips onto Johnny, forcing his tongue in his mouth as his hands reach under his shirt. Johnny seems to relax for a second enjoying the taste of Simon on his lips, playing with his tongue. Simon pulls away moving to Johnny’s neck planting little kisses all the way down to his collar bones. His head tips back hitting the wall as Simon pulls Johnny’s shirt over his head. 

“Si, we shouldn’t leave her.” Johnny says as Simon is burying his head into Johnny's neck. 

“She’ll be fine.” Simon says his voice low, almost a groan, as he continues to run his tongue down Johnny’s neck, Johnny’s hands moving up Simon’s back eventually running his fingers through his hair. Johnny doesn’t fight Simon, enjoying the feel of his husbands hands on his body as Simon’s hands slip under Johnny’s waistband pulling his trousers and boxers down. Simon is moving slow, slow and gentle working his hands down Johnny’s stomach to his abdomen, Johnny is almost desperate gripping Simon’s hair as he moves his tongue round Johnny’s body. 

“Si..” Johnny moans as Simon’s hands find their way to Johnny’s semi-hard cock. Simon want’s to almost beg Johnny to relax, instead running his hand up and down his shaft. Johnny presses his forehead on Simon’s chest moaning as he pushes his hands slipping under Simon’s shirt. Johnny trembles as Simon uses both his hands to pleasure him, his breathing becoming faster. Simon keeps Johnny’s body pressed up against the wall as Johnny starts thrusting his hips, fucking Simon’s hands. Johnny had felt this many times before, Simon giving him pleasure, but never quite like this, his emotions high, endorphins pumping through his body, Johnny starts to tense again Simon pulls away, a whimper leaving Johnny’s lips. 

“On the bed.” Simon says guiding him over as Johnny blindly follows his instructions laying flat. Simon takes his boots and the rest of his pants off flinging them to the side. Johnny lays his head back on the pillows as Simon licks the precum off Johnny’s tip making him moan his hands desperately trying to grab Simon’s hair. Simon smiles then thrusts his mouth round his cock taking him all the way to the hilt.

The pleasure is almost overwhelming, Simon can feel it, Johnny’s body shaking a mix of pleasure and stress. Simon doesn't stop his hands running up Johnny’s chest as he positions himself in a more comfortably to suck him off. Johnny moans and gasps as Simon’s tongue presses into the underside of Johnny’s shaft, Simon can feel him twitching in his mouth enjoying each one as he get’s closer to the edge.

Simon can read Johnny’s body like a book, Johnny thinks he’s sly hiding his movements, his cheeky side glances, the heavy petting Johnny does when he’s in the mood, the way his fingers move around Simon’s body forcing his attention. He thinks he’s good at hiding it but Simon knows him, Simon loves him and right now Simon knows he needs to make Johnny relax.

Johnny’s hips are thrusting again Simon’s hands grip his waist trying to keep it in place. Johnny moans Simon’s name as he cums. Simon likes that, hearing Johnny call his name in the heat of the moment, Simon feels his own cock twitching in his pants as he rides Johnny through the orgasm making sure that Johnny is well and truly satisfied before pulling his mouth away. Simon enjoys the taste of Johnny’s cum in his mouth, the feel of his hot seed hitting the back of his throat. Johnny is still panting when Simon moves, sliding up next to him pulling his head on his chest.

Johnny moves to rest on his chest his still heartbeat still racing, Simon takes exaggerated breaths and Johnny subconsciously follows him. Simon reaches down pulling the duvet over Johnny, kissing his face running his fingers through his hair. 

“You need to rest,” Simon says wrapping his arms round Johnny stroking his back. Johnny’s breathing starts to steady as Simon lowers his voice.

“You do this on purpose,” Johnny says sleepily. Simon smiles, he does do it on purpose. Johnny needs to rest, he’s no good to anyone if he can’t think straight.  

“I’ll wake you if anything happens, I promise.” Simon says kissing his forehead.   

——————————   

The knock at the door pulls Johnny out his sleep, he jolts awake almost fighting over Simon to get out of bed. 

“Easy.” Simon says as he moves swinging his legs out so Johnny can get up.

“You said you’d wake me if anything happened.” Johnny sounds frustrated puling his trousers and shirt on. 

“This is the first thing that’s happened.” Johnny throws Simon’s mask at him opening the door before he gets chance to put it on. It’s only Price.

“She’s awake, she’s asking for you.” Price says. Johnny shoves his feet into his boots as Simon gets up off the bed moving over to the door. Johnny looks back at Simon smiling and rushes out the room pushing past Price. Simon follows Price stopping him in the doorway. 

“What do you want to tell her about Jack?” Price asks. Simon sighs. 

“Laswell found anything?” Simon asks walking with Price, he shakes his head. 

“Still looking for a connection, he’ll be punished for the way he questioned her, demoted at the very least, depends on what they feel like. Theres no evidence he spoofed her card we’re lucky there were so many witnesses. We’re lucky we could clear her name so quick.” Price says. It still took 4 days. 

“Think he can justify his actions?” Simon asks. 

“Let’s see, we’ve got other things to focus on now.” Price walks into her room Simon hangs back for a second. A wave of guilt washing over him, he just wanted to hold her jump into bed with her, apologise. 4 days we let her suffer, Johnny’s words replaying in his head. Never again, he promises himself. 

Next part

[existentialterror]

Do NOT send pictures of your ID card to discord bots!!!!

Or, like, any online rando.

I ran into a server that wanted to make sure that members are over 18 years old. They wanted to avoid the other thing I've heard of, which is asking you to verify your age by sending pictures of your ID card to a moderator. Good! Don't do that!

However, ALSO don't do this other thing, which is using a discord bot that would "automatically verify" you from a selfie and a photo of your ID card showing your birthday. The one they used is ageifybot.com. There's a little more information on its top.gg page. Don't like that! Not using that!

Why not? It's automatic! Well, let me count the ways this service skeeves me out:

How does the verification process work? There is no information on this. Well, okay, if you had more info on what kind of algorithms etc were being used here, that might make it easier for people to cheat it. Fair enough. But we need something to count on.

Who's making it? Like, if I can't understand the mechanics, at least I'd like to know who creates it - ideally they'd be a security professional, or at least a security hobbyist, or an AI expert, or at least someone with some kind of reputation they could lose if this turns out to not be very good, or god forbid, a data-stealing operation. However, the website contains nothing about the creators.

The privacy policy says they store information sent to them, such as your selfie and photo of an ID card, for up to 90 days, or a year if they suspect you're misleading them. It sure seems like even if they're truly abiding by their privacy policy, there's nothing to stop human people from looking at your photos.

The terms of service say they can use, store, process, etc, any information you send them. And that they can't be held accountable for mistakes, misuse, etc. And that they can change the bot and the ToS at any times without telling you. The terms of service also cut off midway through a sentence, so like, that's reassuring:

In conclusion, DO NOT SEND PICTURES OF YOUR ID CARD TO RANDOM DISCORD BOTS.

Yes, keeping minors out of (say) NSFW spaces is a difficult problem, but this "solution" sucks shit and is bad.

Your ID card is private, personal information that can be used by malicious actors to harm you. Do not trust random discord bots.

[anon-sect]

PART ONE

Collab with @jkob85

Mike was in a pickle. He had placed bets on his fantasy football score card that didn't go well. To make matters worse, he had bet a substantial amount of money on his score card. It was so much that it would take some time to pay it all in full. He saw his phone ring. The caller ID read the name of the guy he lost to. He decided not to answer the phone, especially since he couldn't pay the man his money. Unfortunately, this particular mam was not known to be the nicest of guys. He had a reputation of being known as a total jerk, but if he ignored him, maybe he might forget about the bet.

After a full couple of days of ignoring his calls, Mike had a visitor at his apartment door. He opened it, to see Drake standing there. "I had to show up in person since you don't answer phone calls or texts." He said to Mike as he pushed his way into Mike's apartment.

"I don't have the money to pay off the bet, Drake." Mike followed behind him into his own apartment. He knew that Drake was a jerk, but to force his own way into his place was a bit much. "I will let you know when I have it. So you can leave now." He demanded. He watched as Drake went to sit on his couch and put his feet on his table like he owned the place.

"I don't really care for excuses. I just want my money, okay. And now, not years from now." Drake folded his arms while looking at Mike. He was here just for that, and nothing else. "Like I said, you get it when I have it. Otherwise, get out of my place." Drake saw Mike demand. Mike then thought of a solution that could benefit him and Mike. "Okay, I will waive you bet and leave on one condition." He told him.

Mike was curious about what this new condition could be. If he could get out of paying the bet and get the jerk out of his apartment, he had to know what it was. "What are your terms then?" He asked. Mike saw a sadistic grin on Drake's face. "Place a bet on this coming weekend game. The collateral you put down on the bet is yourself instead of money since you can't pay off the previous bet. If the team you pick wins, you are off the hook and owe me nothing. But if that team loses, I own you. Your choice, or pay me my current bet you owe." He didn't like the other option as much as he didn't like the first one. But he also knew how crazy Drake could get when you owe him. He nodded to the new option. Since both knew who were playing this coming weekend, he picked a team for the win. Seeing that Drake was satisfied, he saw him go back to his front door. "I will collect next time if you lose again." Drake told him and walked out. Mike really hoped the team he chose would win.

The weekend came, and Mike watched the game closely. The team he chose had a great lead in the first quarter but lost the leading score in the second quarter. The first half of the game ended with them down by a couple of points. For the last two quarters, it was a close game that ended in a tie, resulting in going into overtime. But Mike hung his head in disappointment when the opposing team scored the next point to win the game. He had lost another bet to Drake. His phone had a text alert. It was from Drake, and it said that he was coming to collect later on today. The only positive was that it wasn't a money bet.

It was several hours later, Mike saw Drake at his apartment door. He was almost tempted not to open it, but that might make Drake bust down the door. He let him in to his apartment. He noticed that he was holding a strange device.

"You want the good news or the bad news?" Drake asked a confused looking Mike as he saw him noticed the TF device in his hands.

Mike didn't know what kind of game Drake was playing at the moment, but he did wanted to know what exactly was going on. "Good news first then." He replied to a smirk on Drake's face. "You don't have to pay me a single penny on the previous bet." He got a reply back as the strange device in Drake's hand was now pointing at him. A beam of light shined on his body from it. "Bad news is that you are mine to do with as I please for as long as I want." Drake told him. He saw him remove his shoes to see his bare feet. He wondered why he wasn't wearing any socks.

Suddenly, Mike felt strange. His apartment seems to become larger. Even Drake was getting taller than he already was. "I came to collect you. You will be going home with me, just not in the traditional way. I came here with no socks, but I am sure leaving with a special pair of socks. You." He heard him laugh as whatever was happening to him continued. He then realized that he was shrinking. His skin was starting to change, and it became almost cotton like. Drake's device was turning him into a pair of socks. Before he knew it, he had fallen to the floor as he lost all motor control over his entire body. He was on the floor facing upwards as his whole world view was giant size. His vision became blurry and then no sight afterwards. He found himself limp and blind on the floor, fearing what would happen next. He could hear Drake's maniacal laugh above him.

Drake watch as a normal human being was now a pair of socks on the floor for his size 13 feet. He picked them up to examine them. They were super soft and look supportive. He put them on his feet and they actually felt good. He put his shoes back on and walked out the door. Before he left, he made sure to put the lock the door since the previous owner would not be returning any time soon.

Mike may have been blind, but he could tell what was happening via his other senses. He felt Drake's feet enter his body, which he realized was split in two pieces. The slightly strong foot odor from his feet was foul. He could taste Drake's feet, and it wasn't something he would have wanted to do. He felt the pressure of Drake stepping on him. The part that really made him beg for mercy was when he was shoved into Drake's shoes. It smelled worse than his feet. He was trapped and surrounded by foul stench. As the walking continued, he faintly heard a door close. He quickly realized it was his apartment door, and Drake was leaving it. He didn't know exactly where he was headed next, but he was trapped around the feet of Drake for who knows how long.

Drake rather enjoyed the power trip he was feeling. He had never worn a guy on his feet before. It really felt like normal socks with just a little more comfort to them. Since he had some errands to run before heading back home, he decided he would break in his new pair of socks. The thought also crossed his mind that Mike could be useful in other ways than as a pair of socks as he drove to his next place he had to be. Till he got home, he would just think of his socks as just socks and not a person being forced to comfort his feet, even though the latter thought did put a smirk on his face.

Mike's mind was going crazy. He couldn't get used to the odor. One part of the odor was inside his sock bodies, and the other part was outside his sock bodies. No matter what, he was surrounded by it and trapped inside it. The constant walking on him also didn't help. He was being treated like a common object by Drake. He felt so embarrassed even though no one but Drake knew about the pair of living socks on his feet. It was just the sense of powerlessness that drove him crazy. He couldn't move any of the body, not even squirm. He was completely at the mercy of Drake with no one to come rescue him.

A few hours later, Drake finally got home. His feet felt so good the entire time he wore Mike. Once in his bedroom, he decided that he would mark Mike as his property in a special way. He got undressed and was just in his underwear. He pulled them down and got on the bed. He grabbed one of the socks, and placed it over his dick. He thought about the entire time if doing his errands and how he was using another guy as his socks. He thought about how Mike was trapped in his shoes totally against his will, surrounded by his foot odor. He got so hard, it didn't take long for him to ejaculate inside the unwilling sock. He jerked his seed into it, hoping Mike could taste it. He enjoyed it so much that he did the same thing to the other sock in the pair.

Mike thought that Drake couldn't torment him any worse till he was forced to taste his cum, not just once, but twice. He was really marking him as his property. He felt disgust for the guy, but it was powerless to do anything to stop him. He decided that if the opportunity to escape or over power should arise, he would do so. He may be trapped as a pair of socks, but his mind would not subcome to be submissive.

[izgnanik-a]

MerMay GhostSoap 5

// MDNI // read at your own risk //

The next time Johnny snuck in a can of something, it had been canned octopus in oil. He gave the guy his lunchbox when the detector went off, and flashed a smile. Giving a stupid remark of “gotta have my vitamins; B12.”

And they let him walk down the hall.

He scanned his lanyard and tucked it into his pocket the moment he got into the doors. Setting his lunchbox down, he took out his water bottle and snacks before a gentle TINK made him look to the tank.

Johnny turned to see the distant body of the fishman hovering in the water. The noise made was Johnny’s ID pressed up against the glass at the bottom. He glanced down at it. “Now that’s cold.” He held the can behind his back as he turned fully to the tank. “But I’ll make a fair trade with you.” He tapped the glass where his ID sat, “That for this.”

The can sat in his palm, visible to the fishman.

It came closer to the glass, webbed palms up against it, ogling the prize.

Johnny tapped the glass where his ID sat. “Give me that. And you can have this.” He pressed it to the glass.

The beast looked at Johnny with such complex emotion. Peering between his face and the can as if thinking “give me that, I don’t know what you’re even saying”.

Johnny brought association to the words, holding out his lanyard. “Trade.” And holding forward the can.

It looked down at Johnny’s lanyard in his hand, and down at it in the tank. Baffled how it could be in two places at once, it tapped its palm on the glass where the can sat.

Johnny pointed again, and before he could say the words, a cloud of dust took its place. “Where’d you go?” Johnny stared in.

A flicker of a tail overhead made Johnny move for the closet door. He unlatched the door and opened it to see the fishman waiting at the ledge, elbows tucked over to keep itself up, hands empty.

“Where’s my lanyard?” Johnny asked, as if he were talking to a child.

The fish’s eyes were locked on Johnny’s hands, a quiet clicking sound uttered from its throat. He could practically see it vibrating with excitement.

“Lanyard.” Johnny put his open palm up.

It stared at him and his hand, then the can.

With a huff, Johnny held out his lanyard. “I want the other one.”

With a quick swipe, Johnny’s new ID was snatched into the beast’s hand.

“Hey! Give it.” Johnny moved to lunge forward but it gave a growl at him.

And to his surprise, it held its empty hand out, as if bargaining Johnny’s ID for the can of octopus.

“I’m being bested by a fish.” Johnny huffed. “Okay? You know what?” He opened the can, sinking his fingers into the oily solution and held out an octopus by a pair of arms. “I’ll give you one for my ID back, and the whole can for both.”

The fishman closed its fist around the treat, palm flat, open mouthed chewing as it blinked alien-like at him. The ID was not released.

Johnny pointed then opened his palm. “Give it.”

The fish did the same; point and open.

For a moment it was mesmerizing to see it learn the gesture so quickly, but annoying once again.

“One more.” Johnny held his finger up. “Then give me.” He held out an octopus, and the fish took it.

It gave a delighted chirp as it buoyed against the ledge. It smacked its lips and held its hand out again.

“No more.” Johnny pointed, “Give.”

It pointed at the can.

“Give.” Johnny stepped closer.

It gave a warning growl before Johnny snatched it. The card snapped at the top from the lanyard, and he stepped back when the fish snapped at him.

It barred its teeth, leaning on its hands at him and growled like a dog.

Johnny gave a glare before hissing like a displeased cat, baring his own teeth at it.

It huddled back and dove into the water, splashing about to get Johnny wet, and didn’t come back up.

Looking to his ID, Johnny tucked it into his pocket. Carefully looking over the ledge, he didn’t see a face peering back at him. He tipped the can’s remains into the water and watched them float on the surface.

A wave scattered them around, but Johnny saw the fish’s tail before it vanished again.

“Moody fish.” He huffed.

Turning for the door, he unlatched it to head out when a splash of water made him jolt, as if the fish would come out and snatch him. When he looked back, the dirty ID he’d gotten from the beginning sat on the concrete.

He picked it up and turned it in his hands before seeing watchful eyes on the surface. When he looked over, it sunk out of sight.

He took his belongings and left the room.

x

Coming back with a treat in hand every time, the others would have thought his tastebuds were dead.

He went in early, knowing he wouldn’t clock in for another few minutes. He brought a sketchbook this time, hoping to draw the fish in person. But he wasn’t expecting Garrick to be there still.

“Kyle. Hey.” Johnny felt the need to tuck his sketchbook under his arm.

“Oh, hey.” He smiled. He was wearing rubber boots, as if he’d been in the tank room recently.

“Busy day?”

“As busy as cleaning gets.” He scoffed. “How have you been?”

“Well, you know, staring at a wall of water all day. It’s quite exciting.” Johnny said sarcastically.

Kyle laughed regardless. “Well, at least you’re able to keep your head on without being bothered by people.”

“Do you?”

“All the time. The boss comes by often.”

“He does?” Johnny worried.

“Yeah. He was here last week actually.”

“When?”

Kyle shrugged. “He usually does his runs, makes sure everything is going right. He usually stops by the security room. You didn’t see him?”

Johnny hadn’t bothered with the security room often unless he was checking to see if Kyle had left the building yet. He stays clear of the room. He wondered if he’d ever gone into the tank room, unknowingly being watched by his own boss.

“No.” Johnny gulped.

“Well, I’ll let you know when he plans on his next visit.” Kyle tapped his arm. “I gotta finish up.” Kyle walked around him.

“Hey, why don’t I join you?”

Kyle turned slowly, like he’d said something he shouldn’t have. “I don’t think you’d want to be in the room where we do the cleaning.”

“I’ve worked as a fisherman before. I’ve smelt worse.” Johnny scoffed.

“We work two different jobs. If the boss caught you doing something you weren’t supposed to, you’d get fired.” He warned.

“I’m part of security.” Johnny insisted. “That includes making sure that people do their jobs properly. With no funny business.” Johnny joked but he was serious.

He was curious if he could get any closer to knowing what was really in the tank, what he’d been feeding for the last week.

Kyle looked conflicted. Like there were ulterior motives at hand that he didn’t want to reveal. But he flashed a bright smile, and nodded. “Alright.”

Johnny was almost baffled. “I’ll put my things in my locker, and I’ll join you then.” He moved with speed and came back to find Garrick in the same spot. “Lead the way.”

Garrick moved in a completely different way than he’d expected him to. He came to a doorway with a deadbolt, pushing his way through, and held it open for Johnny.

“So, did you originally sign up for this job?” Johnny asked to fill the pin-drop silence as he followed behind.

The area got darker, less furnished.

“I signed up to be gate security.” Garrick said.

The lights overhead became a recognizable orange hue, outdated, marble turning to porous concrete.

“What happened?” Johnny followed Garrick into an open room, full of piping and boilers.

The same room he’d found through the wall.

“The last one got hurt on the job cleaning out the tank.” Garrick turned to Johnny, and it was a look that made him stop in his tracks.

Johnny’s mind fluttered to images of horrendous violence, blood and guts at the hands of the fishman. The two rows of teeth shredding flesh and bone so easily.

Johnny gulped. “Hope they’re better.”

Kyle turned away. “These are the controls to add water and remove water from the tank. Sometimes the debris from feedings can get lodged in there, so someone has to go into the tank to remove it from the filter.” He tapped a wheel. “This one empties the tank.”

“Why not get a filter to keep it clean? Like a regular fish tank?”

“It’s gallons of water. And the filter machines don’t last long. They break under mysterious conditions.”

“Mysterious?” Johnny scoffed. “What? Someone breaking them to cost the boss money?”

Garrick didn’t comment. “When we’ve cleaned out most of the water and the sides of the tank, we fill it back up. It takes a bit. I have a key to the closet where I keep my equipment.”

Johnny nodded.

“Is that secure enough for you?” He said.

Johnny flashed a smile. “I really could just use a friend, if I’m being honest with you. It’s lonely around here.”

“I’m glad that you want me as your friend.” But the statement didn’t sound truthful. Garrick patted Johnny’s shoulder. “I’ve got to make my report, so you have to head back before anyone catches you.”

Johnny nodded, glancing to the stairwell and dials. “I’ll see you around then.”

Kyle gave a mock salute and Johnny turned away.

An uneasy ache sat in Johnny’s stomach as he watched Garrick vanish down the hall. But knowing there was another entrance into the boiler room and stairwell gave him an out in case he was to be caught.

x

Thought Johnny waited a good while to enter the tank, he occupied his time with being in the security room. He wondered if the fish had the same habits with Garrick as it did with him.

So, curious, he replayed the footage from before he’d walked in. He was able to see when Garrick entered the tank room, and stepped back out. The water slowly began descending to be cleaned, and Johnny watched the screen bubble up with static before going unavailable.

“Huh?”

He fast forwarded.

The screen cut back in when Garrick was cleaning the sides of the tank, moving from corner to corner slowly. Johnny fast forwarded until he left the room again.

The screen grew staticky again, almost enough to block his view of the water.

The water began filling back up and Kyle stepped back in to see the water levels. He did a few tests; temperature, acidity, and more as Johnny watched. Every time he dipped his hand into the water, the screen grew staticky.

Johnny thought curiously of this could be attached to the behavior of the fish.

He dialed back to the time he’d been in the room with the canned octopus. From the moment he stepped into frame with the desk, the visual cut out. The moment it came back in was when he stepped out of frame, into the door. The tank room visual cut almost immediately, and didn’t clear up until he’d left the room.

He went back to when he’d had the can of sardines.

He was seen coming into the room, and tapping the water. The visual cut by the second tap. When the fish appeared.

“I’ll be fucking damned.” Johnny took his lunchbox and moved for the door. He chalked open the door behind him, and leaned over the edge.

He tapped the water.

Nothing came.

He tapped again, looking around to see no ripples, no head peeking at him. He furrowed his brow. “Where’d you go?” Reaching into his bag, he took out canned mussels. Cracking it open, he pulled one out and set it on the water to watch it sink.

There was no flutter of a tail or body.

“Hello?” He frowned as he stared into the water.

From the far side where the glass was, a splash signaled life. Johnny watched it come closer before reflective scales flashed at him where he’d dropped the mussel.

The bleary face sat under the surface, not willing to come up to him.

“There you are.” Johnny sighed. “Scared me.” He fished for another mussel, tipping it into the water before releasing it.

The fish caught it, removing the fleshy insides, and let the rest sink. It peered back up at him.

“What’re you doing down there? Come on.” Johnny put his hand out.

The fish, a wise guy, put its hand out of the water to receive another bite.

Johnny sighed as he dropped one into its palm, and watched the hand sink. “So you mess with the cameras and the filters.”

The fishman gazed up at him.

“I don’t blame you. I don’t think I’d want to be exploited for internet views either.”

The fish held its hand out of the water again.

Johnny dropped food into its palm. “I wonder why they keep you around. I mean, I’ve never seen something like you before, I don’t think I’ve ever believed in mermaids, but I don’t think I pictured them to look like you. No offense.”

The fish, unbothered, held its hand out again.

“I’ve got one more for you.” Johnny held his finger up.

The fish pointed.

Johnny scoffed. “You really are a quick learner. It’s scary.” Johnny dropped the last mussel into its hand and dunked the oil and bits into the water before discarding the can on the step behind him.

The fish hiked its hand over the ledge, peering with scrutinizing eyes on why it wasn’t being fed more treats.

Johnny sat on the step, elbows on his knees, hands folded in front of him. “I wonder what kind of life you lived before this. How long you’ve been here.” He stared at the drops of water falling from its fingers to the concrete. “No one will tell me a thing about you. I’ve just got to make my own assumptions, right?”

The fish peered towards the can beside him, and stuck out a little more to point at it.

“It’s empty.” He held it up. “No more.” He brought it closer and the fish took it in hand. Bringing it to its face, it peered at Johnny as it sniffed it before dropping it in the concrete. “You’re a hungry boy. Or— I think you’re male.” He scratched his neck. “I don’t know what you are besides you love fish and you mess with machines.”

The fish looked to the can again, and plucked it up. It held it up for Johnny to see.

“Empty.” Johnny said. “No more.”

The fish grunted, holding it out again with aggression this time. It was visibly frustrated with a scowling brow.

“Unless you like ham sandwiches,” Johnny took out one of his sandwiches and unwrapped it, “it’s got mayo, tomato, and lettuce.”

The creature snatched it from his hand, tomato slice dropping from it, the fish dipped into the water.

“That can’t taste good.”

To his words, the soggy mess of sandwich fell back onto the concrete at his feet. But the mayo smeared lettuce and ham was gone.

“You’re an omnivore.” Johnny hummed as it rose back up. “You and I are not so different after all.”

It trilled happily as it chewed the remains of ham and lettuce.

“Besides the fact that you’ve got a tail, and are probably going to kill someone someday because they didn’t give you the right fish.”

It smacked its lip.

“This is really going to start making me take my meds again.”

It blinked at him sheepishly.

x

next chapter coming soon

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