#Multitool Mechanic

[fogaminghub]

🚀 Get ready for Metal Eden! 🎮 This upcoming sci-fi FPS from Reikon Games is set to release on May 6, 2025, and it looks absolutely epic!

Step into the shoes of Aska, an android navigating the artificial city of Moebius with a unique Core-Ripping mechanic. Extract enemy cores for explosive complications or use them to boost your abilities. 💥✨ 

With fast-paced action and strategic play, Metal Eden offers endless possibilities for creative combat. Glide, dash, wall-run, and strategize your way to victory!

Who’s excited? 🙌

[hellenhighwater]

Do you carry any other fun and whimsical things in your purse besides the brass measuring tools? can we see them??

"What do I carry in my purse" is actually a really long answer! Not very whimsical though.

I don't carry a very large purse but it is actually jam-packed with stuff. Obviously the usual—credit cards, ID, badge, money, car keys.

But the rest is taken up by a tidy little lineup of things that are useless 99% of the time and crucial 1% of the time. Some of it (most of the top row) floats loose in my purse; most of the bottom row packs into the little bag there. My sketchbook du jour is usually carried separately.

So: top row:

Sketchbook and the little brass drafting tools, which I carry inside the sketchbook, and also a little metal ruler that has honestly become redundant.

Then, a bunch of pens and marking tools: A ballpoint, some pencils, paint pen, permanent marker, white gel pens, white paint pen, white mechanical pencil, and eraser. This varies depending on what I'm working on and what I've absently left in the wrong place.

Some lip gloss, hand sanitizer, concealer, chapstick, nail polish, and heavy lotion (clay dries your hands out SO hard) and a hair pin. Usually there are several sword shaped hair pins also; I took them out while working on a project and they'll migrate back when I'm done.

Headphones, a couple knives, and a tiny foldable gerber multitool. A little flat card multitool, with a heavy needed shoved into its case also, and a pack of clear sticky notes.

A two-port USB brick; I usually also carry a power bank but it's charging in the car right now.

My change purse and my wallet, which is just the IDs; my actual cards are in a pocket in the purse that also has a little nail kit. My car keys, which have a bottle opener and a combined window breaker-seatbelt cutter, a 64 gig USB key, and keys to my studio, house, garage, and the courthouse.

The bag itself is metal mesh, which means it’s durable but also somewhat see-thru.

That little tin is a tiny first aid kit, which probably I should have unpacked, but it's got bandaids, bandages, skin tape, blistex; antiseptic, itch, and burn cream; eyedrops; several small packets of common meds (tylenol, advil, etc) and a little folded chart for meds, since I’m terrible at remembering which can be taken with which; a breath mask. There's also a razor and some safety pins tucked in there. It's held shut with a hair tie.

There's some single-use earplugs and some zip ties, some more eye drops, and a tiny vial of liquid breath mint.

A deck of mini playing cards.

A tiny sewing kit--needles, pins, earring backs and pin backs, some heavy black thread on a bobbin, a measuring tape, and some foldable scissors. There's a couple glasses screws in there from before I had Lasik.

Another little multitool, some binder clips, a tiny level, a 120 gig USB, and some bobby pins.

Matches and a lighter, a flat pen, and coils of 20 lb fishing line, picture wire, and monofilament, as well as two short USB cords.

A tide pen and a glasses screwdriver.

The bag contains cardboard strips with several yards of tape: Electrical, packing, scotch, duct, gaff, and skin tape. Superglue. A spare piece of heavy cardboard to use as a cutting surface if needed.

An Xacto knife with the blade reversed (learned my lesson after jamming my hand into my bag and taking a chunk out of a finger when a springloaded switchblade opened itself) and spare blades.

Some more clear sticky notes and a tiny lined notebook for when I just need scratch paper.

My car actually includes two slightly different emergency bags—one for regular roadside emergencies (including emergencies in blizzard weather) and one for camping emergencies, and a bit more of an extensive first aid kit.

[a-cat-in-toffee]

okay you are making a lot of good points actually. you've swayed me. I was just overcome with such a wave of queer emotion thinking about vyncent watching william fix something I think I hauve couvid

pd scifi racing au. "randy what the fuck does this mean?" I wish I could tell you

[oneminutefiftysixseconds]

while fixing my flat tire this morning i pondered the question if and who of the cyclists know how to do it. like not only change a whole wheel, but get the tube out, find the hole, put the little sticker on it, get it back in (be so fucking frustrated bc now the brakes are making weird things and when they come back 20mins later the fucking tire is fucking flat again)? what do you think? which of them would feel me?

this is a SUPERB question and one that merits much consideration 🤔

i'm assuming/hoping they all at one point or other, did in fact know how to maintain their own bikes (hmmm. most of them at least.)

however, after many years of being handed a shiny new sponsor bike every January and spending almost all of their time riding a handful of minutes away from a team car/mechanic/NSV for spare bikes/wheels, it's entirely possible they've forgotten. having a crack team of mechanics servicing your bike's every need will undoubtedly lead to forgetting stuff

okay seriousness over let's get silly!

long gone are the days of pros carrying spare tubes over their shoulders (which is a shame because it's hot), but who, given the opportunity, would be capable of fixing a puncture?

direct evidence:

Wout van Aert ✔️

growing up as a teenager in cross without an eminent father and the connections that brings, bikepacker in the off season, wout can 100% fix it himself and wash the bike at the end of the ride

at the opposite end of of the spectrum, G ✖️

after eighteen years as a pro i'm not sure whether g remembers how to change rim brake pads let alone discs. the team give him a fresh pinarello and he rides it. simple. when it breaks a mechanic gives him another one. though once he retires the knowledge will come back to him

distantly justified gut feelings/completely unjustified Visions:

tadej ✔️ he can change tubes but always forgets the left pedal screws the opposite way

remco ✖️ owns at least one unnecessarily fancy multitool that he has never used. aero nerd but basic maintenance eludes him

mathieu ✔️ but it will take a fair while because he has not done it in soooo long and he doesn't remember to check the tyre for embedded sharps (this could be causing your repeated flat or the tube may be caught between tyre bead and rim)

jasper ✖️ forgets shoes and socks on training camp. has never bought his own inner tubes; begs one from someone else on the group ride and then struggles with a tyre lever for 20 minutes before someone takes pity

jonas ✔️ part time carpenter adept at handiwork, has been given the same unnecessarily fancy multitool as remco (BY remco? at the vuelta?) but it's unused in favour of an infinitely more practical one.

tom (pidcock) ✔️

joshy t ✖️ the lad vaguely knows what an innertube is and that you can pop them by putting the pressure too high but has never had to handle one himself

mads ✔️✔️ father (dads pedersen, if you will) runs a bike shop. not only can mads change a tube in under four minutes but he will show others how to look after their bikes and get irritated at poor maintence

matej ✔️✔️✔️ in another timeline it's moho instead of frank herzegh who invents tubeless tyres

[gftimelordstwin]

Hey there!

Name’s Stanley Pines, though you can just call me Stan. Figured it’s about time I give this Internet thing a shot— after all, everyone’s on it these days, right?

Now, I’m not the brains of the operation, that’s my brother Ford. He’s the one with all the fancy titles nowadays, but I’m the guy who gets things done. We travel through dimensions pretty regularly. Y’know, fighting off whatever weird alien or monster decides to show its ugly face. Nothing we can’t handle, of course!

PINES! PINES! PINES!

Anyway, I’m not one for long speeches. Just thought I’d introduce myself. Stick around, who knows what might happen next.

See ya around! - Stanley Pines

OOC: OH WOW THIS BLOG WAS LONG OVERDUE- anyway here's the companion blog for Stanley to my other blog @gftimelord because I actually couldn't help myself HAHAHA! My main blog is @matrixbearer2024! Lee is mostly still same old same old, he's just a hidden genius and dubbed 'carer' to Doc. In terms of the Doctor Who franchise, he's similar to any timelord's companion(e.g. Bill, Clara, Donna, etc.) I'll mostly have him set post-weirdmageddon but I'm open to shifting whichever point in time for questions or RPs, have fun everyone! P.S. Down below are insights to his character and inventory for anyone interested or planning to interact with him!

Lee's inventory:

Multitool:

Lock Picking: Designed to pick locks of all kinds, from standard doors to more advanced mechanisms.

Electronic Fiddling: Can be used to tinker with small electronics and gadgets, though Lee prefers more practical solutions over technology when he can.

Simple Mechanical Fixes: Handy for quick mechanical repairs, Lee uses this when brute force isn’t the best option.

The Doctor(AU Stanford)’s Old Blaster:

Energy Weapon: A basic blaster for ranged combat, though Lee doesn’t often use it unless necessary. He prefers the physical satisfaction of a fistfight but keeps it for emergencies.

Adjustable Power: The blaster has multiple settings for stunning, damaging, or disabling targets, though Lee usually keeps it simple.

Brass Knuckles:

Close-Combat Weapon: Lee’s weapon of choice in most situations. He’s skilled at hand-to-hand combat and uses these to pack an extra punch in a fight.

Durability: Built to withstand multiple hits and heavy use, these knuckles are well-worn and reliable.

Zygon Forcefield:

Personal Shield: A protective barrier which protects him from the worst injuries in dangerous situations. Lee often uses this out of caution which makes him ridiculously hard to kill and all the more dangerous in close-combat situations.

Camouflage: For a temporary time, the advanced zygon technology refracts and manipulates light to turn Lee invisible to the naked eye. This can be activated and disabled manually.

Energy Absorption: The shield absorbs incoming energy-based attacks but has a limited capacity before needing to recharge.

Repair Box:

Immortality: A set of nanobots that constantly repairs and heals injuries on Lee’s body, making him functionally immortal. Age and illness won’t kill him, but fatal injuries still pose a threat.

Healing Factor: Non-fatal wounds heal rapidly, allowing Lee to recover quickly from injuries that would incapacitate others.

Autonomy: Lee made Ford promise never to bring him back once he chooses to end it, granting him control over his immortality.

Watch/Log Recorder:

Travel Logs: Keeps track of multiverse coordinates and records short, practical notes on their journeys.

Dimensional Awareness: Helps Lee keep track of which dimension he's in, providing useful information about their location and any notable anomalies.

Communicator: Think like how a smart-watch can send and recieve calls and messages, his watch functions the same way with it's other added functions.

Coin:

Fidget Tool: Lee keeps this coin as a simple distraction, flipping it when he’s thinking or waiting. It’s a grounding tool for him during tense moments.

Memory Keepsake: While he never talks about it, the coin holds sentimental value for Lee(Soos gave it to him).

Stack of Cards:

Games: Used to pass the time or engage in games of skill, these cards are always on hand. Lee’s excellent at card games and has a natural sleight of hand.

Distraction: In tight spots, Lee’s been known to use the cards to distract or mislead enemies.

Satchel (Hidden Under His Blazer):

Storage for Small Gadgets: This satchel contains his coin, cards, and other small items. Lee keeps it concealed under his blazer for easy access.

Minimalist: True to Lee’s practical nature, he carries only what he needs, keeping the satchel lightweight and easy to hide.

Bigger On The Inside: The bag functions like a small bag of holding without the weight restraint, Lee can fit a surprising amount of items in it thanks to how it functions.

Lee's Appearance:

Lee wears a dark brown blazer mostly to keep himself warm, also having more layers on adventures when clothes are prone to tearing is generally a bonus!

He also sports a red beanie with his signature icon(the oyster) on it since it reminds him of home, also because Mabel gave it to him.

Started wearing gloves to protect his hands more since his knuckles and palms constantly get scratched up from all his roughousing(and fighting).

His sachel is always tucked under his blazer out of precaution(to avoid being pickpocketed or it being stolen off him), his pockets are more for his hands than anything.

Wears boots under his trousers since he thinks they're just more practical.

Key Quotes About Lee:

"If it's stupid but it works, it ain't stupid."

"Work hard, play hard."

"Rule number one: The Doctor lies."

"Good men don’t need rules."

"Never be cruel, never be cowardly. Hate? That’s just dumb. Love’s a whole lot wiser. Be kind, even when it’s hard."

"I do what I do ‘cause it’s right. It’s decent. And above all, it’s kind. If I run today, good people are gonna die. But if I stand and fight, some might make it. Maybe not all, maybe not long, but that’s good enough for me."

"Brains and cruelty don’t mix, never have, never will."

"Sure, a straight line’s faster, but c’mon, where’s the fun in that?"

"Don’t go flexin’ muscle for no reason. You’ll just embarrass yourself. But if you’re mad? Yeah, go ahead, throw a punch."

"You know when folks tell you everything’s gonna be fine, but you don’t buy it? Well, I’m telling you— everything’s gonna be fine."

"This is me, right here, right now. What matters is who I am, not who I used to be."

"In all my time across the multiverse, I ain’t met a single person who wasn’t important. Not once."

"There’s no point in bein' grown up if you can’t be a kid sometimes."

"You don’t just quit. You don’t let stuff happen. You stand up and say, 'No!' You do what’s right, even when everyone else runs for the hills."

"I’m not runnin’ away from anything, I’m runnin’ to it. Before it fades out forever."

"Great men are made in fire. Sometimes, it’s the ones who light the match that never get the credit."

"My back’s killin’ me. Guess it’s ‘cause I’m stuck carryin' the weight of all these deadbeats who crush everyone else’s dreams."

"Call me by my full name again, and I’ll remove your organs in alphabetical order. Got it?"

"There’s better stuff to do today. Dying? That can wait."

"Letting things get to you? That’s called bein' alive. Best part of it, really. If you’re alive right now, you’re doin' fine."

"I’m always gonna be the optimist. The guy hopin' for the impossible, dreamin’ about what comes next."

"We’re all stories, y’know? So let’s make this one a good one."

"Everything’s gotta end at some point. If it didn’t, nothin’ would ever start."

"Life’s a mix of good and bad. The bad doesn’t ruin the good, and the good doesn’t fix the bad. It’s all just... there."

"The more we learn about each other, the more we learn about ourselves."

"Yellin’ at the world ain’t gonna make it better."

"Somethin’ doesn’t add up? Well, let’s go poke it with a stick!"

"We all change, all the time. That’s how it is. And it’s okay. Just remember who you used to be, and keep movin'."

"Funny thing about stories… feels like you don’t make ‘em up. More like you stumble across ‘em. You keep diggin’ and writin’, knowin’ that somewhere out there, there’s that one perfect ending that you never saw comin’, but was always meant to be. It’s like you’ve been headed for that spot the whole time, without even knowin’ it."

"Y’know, for some people, it ain’t the big moments that matter. It’s the small, beautiful ones. That’s what life’s really about—those little sparks that make it worth all the trouble."

"We’re all capable of changin’ in ways we never imagined. But here’s the thing—ya don’t gotta lose who you are to do it. We grow, we evolve, and we still hold on to the parts of us that matter most. You get to choose who you wanna be next, and still respect who you’ve been."

[olive-pup]

Fuck it, toolposting time

This is my day to day kit, and with it I can fix just about anything in the plant. It's missing exactly one thing, and that's a pair of good pliers/multitool, but that's on its way (it'll be carried separately because I'm out of room in my small pouch and my big one is too big. Breakdown of all my tools below the cut

From left to right, we've got:

- LOTO locks. Safety is first so my locks are first. These are American Lock model H-6698 in blue. Very heafty aluminum lock, does exactly what it's supposed to; locks things out and keeps me safe

- next is my Wiha compact allen key sets. One for metric and one for standard. These ones in particular are nice because of their length, makes for extra leverage.

- after that is my modified Icon magnetic flashlight. I modified it so the longer LED bar faced in towards the battery so it can be used upside down or as a work light. USBc rechargeable and very handy

- taking center stage is my Klein Tools insulated screwdrivers in philips and slotted (flat head). They're well used so I don't use them for any work that would actually require insulated tools as the 1000V rating can't be trusted or verified. Probably my most used tools

-second to last is my trust adjustable hammer. It's a Craftsman model CMMT81623 and it's great at rounding off nuts and bolts or doing percussive maintenance. Has custom dog bone engraving (I did it by hand, don't judge)

-and finally, my trusty toughbuilt cliptech pouch. I love these because they have a quick release mechanism that means I don't have to fight it to take it off and I don't have to take off my belt either. Very convenient. I have a larger one that I use for big jobs, especially electrical jobs because it's been modified to hold my multimeter and some other useful tools.

That's all for edc except for my keys (not pictured for obvious reasons) and my radio, which isn't anything special. If this is something people are interested in, I can go into more detail or even do a full toolbox tour (at least, what I'm allowed to show, I do still work for a company haha)

[grassyneptune]

anyway alyx headcanon dump. calling her gertrude + alyx x gertie because i'm self-indulgent

love alyx taping over dirty dancing like she hated it, but she could’ve carried media (movies or combine patrols) over to russell’s given his storage capacity, his place isn’t too far. she only has so many vhs tapes on hand

the intimacy of a mechanic doing field repairs on the very thing keeping you alive. she knows that suit more than you do. alyx memorizing hev alerts and keeping an eye out for suit batteries herself

she surely helped kleiner build the hev mk V, what if the flashlight is the one from hla?

starts calling her multitool iterations mk I, mk II because of it

alyx and judith dying hair together. gave her the red streaks :) the farthest step she could get judith to do on her own hair was bleach

torn between kleiner being behind all the klab doodles vs alyx drawing on his clipboard during their extensive talks

alyx struggling between "honesty is good and preferable" and not telling eli things that'd make him fall over

comfortable hugging the hev suit because her best friend is made of metal. every time its internals roar up she thinks of dog

alyx also deeply struggling with loss. cradling her mom’s necklace. had to have an emotional discussion with eli after olga left because she couldn’t stop crying on her own. dug through city rubble for days for a glimpse of that bright orange hazard suit despite every imminent threat demanding she run. ep2? god.

probably wept at a mirror over how much she looks like her mom

alyx not following into vents because she has both nyctophobia AND claustrophobia, leaves her inevitably sitting in the darkness by herself as she waits. gertrude brings a flare back to her (fears known or not. it was a courtesy thing) and it sparks all her ep1 flirting

olga as unidentified deaf character doesn't mean alyx would’ve learned asl per se, given olga’s accent. alyx taking it upon herself to learn a second sign language for gertrude because she's that stubborn. back to square one dog!

alyx watching gertrude’s body language, glancing in conversations to read her expressions, getting tells wrong. barney has to convince her she can't hack her way through this kind of code (been there, done that) (wants to see her try)

alyx and barney going through pre-war conspiracy books to poke fun at what they did and didn't get wrong

sharing weapons with alyx. swapping melees. alyx is a sniper!! let her use the crossbow! gertrude would carry her ep1 shotgun for her if she'd ask

(also gertie using the alyxgun in the victory mine. gives it back fully reloaded and ready to go)

alyx and gertrude sharing a wardrobe since clothes are so limited. gertie wearing something that's so obviously alyx's and vice versa. alyx thinks it's weird to point out, it’s not like it means anything. as if she wouldn't wear the nice jeans her girl found in a dusty, long abandoned building. this woman thrives off hand-me-downs

hoodie was a gift from magnusson. semi-embarrassed to ask if white forest happens to have a second one lying somewhere

never felt fleece before -> LOVES the texture of fleece. if it’s not her only jacket then every jacket she owns is fleece-lined

hla backpack evolves into her toolbelt in terms of inventory, rather than having both in hla or hl2. she mostly only lugs around her backpack for scavenging trips nowadays

can't get immersed in movies, the acting takes her out no matter how natural it seems. can't get past the fact it's fake. practical effects are her favorite though

little alyx climbing atop equally little dog to reach places she shouldn't. humble beginnings of her tenement-scaling career

eli made her wacky cake growing up because dairy? eggs? in this apocalypse?

those egg-flavored combine rations, however long they’ve been produced, never tasted the same after she had a real egg with real salt. the taste of a YOLK? the combine know nothing

alyx bypassing the ladder in kleiner's lab and just sitting on the loft with her legs dangled off the side

scavenging beyond scrap metal and parts. things she knows people will like. white forest’s tea collection grows an extra tin without a word

[elbiotipo]

Notes on gear in Campoestela, mostly spacesuits:

Spacesuits are cheap and widely produced compared to today, but they are also tailor-made, much like a VERY, very high-end business suit. Going to a spacesuit tailor is often expensive and a bit of a chore, as you have to tailor everything from the actual suit to atmospheric mixes, especially when it comes to different species. However, once they are done, they usually last for life.

The main kind of spacesuits are the "skintight" counter pressure suits (see here). They look remarkably like racing suits, and are rather easy to put it on and comfortable. Carbon nanotube and smart materials deal with most of the uncomfortable parts, but you WILL feel a certain Tingle in your more curvy parts. You've been warned.

You can, actually, wear your suit as everyday clothing. There's also zippers for when you have to go... The astronaut underwear, of course, still works as a diaper (dissolving *stuff* with genetically engineered bacteria for that purpose), and when missions get extensive, there's no other way. Because of the bad past reputation of astronauts who did it anywhere, they have gone all the other way now, and most spacers are meticulously clean and very touchy about that subject.

(the beforementioned bacteria, as well as atmospheric and pressure mixes, have to be customized for different species, which makes spacesuits a rather expensive lifetime investment)

Helmets are standarized, but by far, the most complex part of the suit. Equipped with radio, lights, a HUD controlled by eye movement and blinking (though many prefer wrist buttons), and even some little snacks and water in case you are stranded and have to wait hours or even days for rescue. They are very easy to put it on, seal automatically with the collars of all spacesuits, and unlike current ones, they allow you to move your neck inside.

(there's also a little stick to scratch your nose).

Astronauts love to put stickers on their helmets. In fact, spacesuits are very much personalized; a plain space white suit is frowned upon. Mission patches and flags, much like punk battle jackets, and very often the name is on big letters on the back, like a football jersey, for easier identification. Many spacers, especially those who like to stand out, go even further and decorate their suits with family heradly, or special artwork like tattoos, you can find some that look like an abstract or baroque painting and you can say "oh, it's This Guy" (and that's exactly the intention). Most of this of course applies to human spacer cultures, other cultures and species have different traditions. Some might look all the same, but in ultraviolet or infrared reveal all sorts of complex patterns.

Spacesuits backpacks are very much miniaturized, also easy to connect to standarized helmets. Helmets themselves have limited air recycling capabilities, but you need a backpack for any EVA.

LISTEN UP, ASTRONAUTS! Here's what you need to have in your belt before heading off: a beeper (radar to check distances from objects), backup radio, sealing patches (if there's any puncture on the suit or helmet), intravenous iodine (for radiation), sedants and anti-nausea (not a good idea to go out with nausea or The Bends in an emergency, species dependant of course), signal flares and flashlight, multiknife (or facón if you're Esteloplatense), and don't DARE going out without a safety line.

On a planet, suit or not (what, are you going out with your suit planetside? are you from a movie or something?) you still have some gear on your belt all the time. Breather mask and goggles just in case, again, a multitool or knife, pills with nutrients for when the local food isn't enough (for Argentines, they look like La Yapa candy), iodine pills, a kind of smartphone for rugged terrain (like two months of battery and capable of being sunk in mud with no problem), advanced wristwatch (many carry a mechanical one for emergencies) and various other tools. If your belt doesn't do a jingle jangle when you're walking, are you even an astronaut?

Bullet or energy weapons are frowned upon in spaceports, obviously. Most spacers have some 'on the trunk' for emergency, but unlike most science fiction, they don't usually go carrying them around all the time. In fact, gunfights in remote spaceports are mostly a fiction from the equivalent of western movies.

Most spaceships also carry a lot of little bots that do all the maintainance that biologicals can't do, especially since these are ATOMIC ROCKETS we are talking about, and a human fixing a nuclear lightbulb engine would get their DNA chopped. These droids are ubiquitous in all spaceship garages and cargo bays, and usually you can adopt one for cheap, they're treated much like pets and are very hardy; they do need a lot of radiation cleaning though.

[dailycharacteroption]

Signature Item Envoy (Envoy Alternate Class Feature)

(art by ZenVanillaCoke on DeviantArt)

When it comes to most characters in any form of media, unless they’re always naked for whatever reason, they probably have possessions. Clothing, weapons, nice jewelry, and so on. Because of the way such items can help define not just a characters role or abilities, but also their distinctiveness, their silhouette, and their unique appearance.

Beyond a character design perspective though, people in real life also have iconic possessions, things that they are rarely ever seen without. A favorite hat or jacket, a lucky ring, the same adjustable multitool that they’ve been using forever and has personal significance, or even a relatively unique weapon they keep on their person. They might believe it’s lucky, love the way it looks and derive a confidence boost from it, or simply find it so reliable that it’s presence reassures them.

No matter the reason, it is these factors that form the basis for today’s subject: the signature item envoy, which gains confidence when they have their favorite item on their person, gaining slightly different benefits depending on the nature of the item!

As a baseline, the signature item helps determine what the first expertise the envoy has, and while such an item is fairly unique, they can replace it if it is lost, or if it needs to be upgraded.

Armor can either be literal armor or shield or other protective item, and is often either custom designed to look iconic, or has trinkets and memorabilia integrated into it. Wearers typically gain expertise in intimidation, reading others, or hiding their identity. Additionally, they are so familiar with their armor that they can better turn aside or absorb incoming attacks to reduce the harm that comes to them. Additionally, they find it much easier to use their expertise defensively to resist assaults on body and mind: both because they learn the technique earlier, and because their expertise rarely provides minimal benefit.

Their signature item might be non-defensive clothing instead, though. Anything from a favorite hat, jacket, pin, or any other form of outerwear. With this selection, they can learn two additional tricks associated with the social skills, and by adjusting their clothing, they can switch “modes”, gaining the benefit of one while not using the other and vice versa.

Others have a signature tool, which can either be mechanical or medical in nature. In the former case, it might be a hacking kit, a tool set, personal hand held computer, or the like, while the latter might be a surgeon’s kit, diagnostic tool, and so on. The former gains the benefits of being a mechanic’s custom rig, along with the ability to take mechanic tricks. Meanwhile, medical tools instead function as a biohacker’s toolkit, and allows the envoy to take theorems as well.

Finally, some choose to have a signature weapon, which might be a fairly unique weapon choice not usually seen, or it might be a customized tool of death with various enhancements and cosmetic options. Naturally, these envoys either start with the engineering smarts to mod their gun themselves, or the bluffing or intimidation to back up the threat of the weapon itself. What’s more, they practice with it regularly, sometimes performing tricks and flourishes, which gives them confidence to then fight a designated foe for a short while with the same lethal skill as more deadly career paths.

This archetype is super simple, but a great way to handle the idea of a character that is defined by their relationship with their equipment, both in mechanical and backstory terms. Naturally, depending on what sort of item they focus on, your build can vary from tanky or stealthy to social, technical, or even offensively-inclined, so build accordingly.

It should go without saying, but an archetype like this is just begging for lots of backstory and personal lore about why they value this one specific part of their ensemble so much. It might be an heirloom, a neat thing they picked up because they thought it was cool, or maybe just an item they purchased that spoke them aesthetically on such a level that they couldn’t help but get invested in it.

Having won it at their very first racing circuit, it’s safe to say that the starship pilot Elgan loves their custom aviator jacket, which is now covered in decorative patches and the marks of dozens of repair work. All the more bizarre when he suddenly abandons it like it were nothing, all because he became a victim of the infamous fungal bodysnatchers, the dycepskians.

Though definitely not a copaxi design, Pikganak really enjoys the look of their heavy vesk armor, going so far as to add their own touches, the powered suit seeming to resemble a walking coral reef at this point.

While out shopping, the party happens across a custom high-end cavitation pistol that catches their eye, but not because they’re interested in purchasing it. No, the custom-tooled emitter, the exotic finish, and event the charm on the grip from a defunct holovid program all point to this being the signature weapon of one of their mercenary buddies, something she would never willingly relinquish.

[aandriskobold]

laerryn has a full magic multitool..... all this time i could have been thinking about sexy mechanic architect arcane. overalls down to her waist. glowing magic grease stains. hair pulled back as an afterthought, falling in her face as she brushes it away with a wrist keeping her laser focus on the contraption she's working on....

[sarsaparillaart]

"More useful than your own hand."

Swordtember 22nd - Mechanical

Sort of a Diyaran multitool/dolabra.

The ekkyed* is a common farming tool in most parts of Diyar. It is an ancient tool, having evolved from simple adzes over hundreds and hundreds of years. While it can still be used for its original purpose, the ekkyed has built up a reputation for its universal nature. The bladed end is most commonly used for cutting wood, but it doubles as a defensive tool for farmers travelling to and from major cities in order to sell goods. The pick end can be used as an adze, but also for entrenching and breaking rocks. It is a tool of the common folk in Diyar and its image has become synonymous with that of the worker. Many Henoites are depicted with an ekkyed, particularly those who stand to protect the poor.

In recent years, the tool has begun to pick up further symbolism. As Diyar transitions from a largely agrarian state towards a commercial power, the ekkyed has become a symbol of rebellion and protection of the peasantry. This is particularly true within the last few years as the influence of mainland trade consortiums has created sentiment for the repealing of anti-slavery laws. The workers and tradesmen of the Chain are invaluable; at times one must remind the city Ménages that the ekkyed has two ends.

*/'ɛ.xjɛd/

[msbarrows]

Had a ton of fun last night playing the newest No Man's Sky expedition, Aquarius. Decided that since it was focused on their new fishing ability and items, this was clearly an expedition the shark-headed character I'd created during the previous expedition should undertake. Since I know one of the common rewards in expeditions is generally more inventory slots, I had him grab the pretty custom solar starship he'd put together but not done anything with yet. Threw what I could at in terms in additional storage space and technology before sending him into the expedition.

It didn't take very long to get him off the starter planet and into space, and hen on to the next star system, after which summoning the anomaly was unlocked. I'd put in enough time identifying all the fauna on a couple of planets for nanites that he was able to purchase his solar starship back right away; didn't bother getting his multitool, as it was just a barely-modified-yet Atlas Staff and he could just claim that for free again at the quicksilver vendor.

Still loving things like the new space station designs, which sometimes turn out spectacularly well. Also the new world flora/fauna items from the Worlds Part I update, which I'm always delighted to see.

The fishing expedition was fairly straightforward and reasonably fun; nice simple mechanics on how it all worked. The skiff is marginally disappointing - it's a static item rather than something movable like an exocraft, but at least it gives you a way to summon a (relatively) stable surface to fish from anywhere. I say relatively because it does pitch and yaw in strong seas; it was weirdly amusing to pull back into 3rd person view and watch my character sliding around on the deck as it moved. Also, while the skiff has a reasonably generous 60 slots of cold storage for your catch during the expedition, it has a measly 10 once you're finished. And that can only be accessed from the skiff; it doesn't cross-connect to, say, your nutrient processor. Have fun inventory juggling even more for any fish-based cooking!

One of the quests during the expedition required catching fish that can only be caught during storms. Also most of the goals required being out fishing for long enough that you'd have to live through multiple storms anyway, unless you were very lucky about which cold and/or hot planets you did those particular ones on. What I hit on doing, after I'd built my quest-required underwater base, was to build a small fishing hut structure that rose up above the water (thankfully the power hotspot I'd found to build the base at was right at the foot of a seamount that rose most of the way to the surface). You can stand in the hut and be considered indoors and out of any weather by the game, yet still be able to cast your line through an open archway into the water. I eventually realized it'd work even better with a bit of an overhang above the arch, so I could move right up to it and still be considered to be under a roof. Had a lot of fun building a couple of different shelters this way, the other on a hot planet perched on the edge of a tiny island overlooking a drop off to deep water.

Will I spend much time fishing in future? Eh. It doesn't really grip me. But it's nice to have the option, and does give me one more reason to build bases in or beside water. And one more feature to make sure my water-side bases incorporate.

[krimsonkatt]

Jeht Von Gunglaive (Chronicles Meteorfall)

Finally, we get to talking about my OCs! With the advent of the final finished drawings of these characters, I can fully start talking about them in detail.

Jeht is a mechanic in Morda Vael from a long line of inventors and one of the many noble houses of the empire. His dad, Gustav Von Gunglaive, worked on the Empire's massive super weapon, the Tower of Babel. However, upon learning that not only the so-called "radio tower" he was working on was actually an armed superweapon AND that it was going to be used as a beacon to summon the archon Baetylus and his crimson meteor at the behest of Trello, Prophet of Morda Vael, Gustav intentionally created a vulnerability in the weapon to exploit later.

However, one day that all changed. During the day of an important science fair, something went horribly wrong and Jeht and his father were put under investigation. Upon raiding Gustav's lab the black blades, Morda Vael's secret police, found that Gustav planned to betray the Babel Project and remotely self-destruct the tower. Gustav was indited and put under house arrest alongside the rest of his family under heavy supervision and surveillance. Jeht's life was practically ruined in an instant. And the funniest thing is this day, the day that ruined his life, Jeht can't even remember...

Jeht eventually helped Tayo, Zenith, and Stacy escape from the state-occupied city of Baetas with the help of the modified magitek armor he and his father were building. Gustav actually had a secret alternate way to shut down the tower of Babel, one he hid from everyone. He created a virus that could shut down the Tower of Babel's whole operation and self-defense systems, but needed a long distance transmitter to do send the virus to the tower. The only long distance transmitter in range of the Tower of Babel was within Castle Naughtmare, which just so happened to be the same place Tayo, Zenith, and Stacy were going in order to save Koros. So Jeht joined the team, becoming its temporary leader before Koros could rejoin them.

Jeht has a massive crush on Tayo, though he mostly keeps his feelings to himself. He only confesses to his true feelings to Stacy while them and Tayo+Zenith are separated within the Cavern of Torment, and Stacy pledges to keep it a secret on Jeht's request. Eventually Jeht confesses his feelings to Tayo before the final battle and Tayo politely turns him down, as Jeht expected. Jeht takes to this well as he just wanted to get his feelings out there.

His default class is Thief and his S-Class is Hexblade, a powerful speedster who specializes in inflicting status effects. His ultimate weapon is the Multitool MKII, an upgrade of his starting weapon Multitool and one of the strongest daggers in the game.

Jeht's S-Talents include "Toolbox" and "Dark Descent." Toolbox Jeht has at default while Dark Descent is learned by completing Jeht's EX quest. Toolbox is unique among S-Talents and even talents in general as it is the only Talent or S-Talent that can be spammed, using a certain rare item from your inventory as payment rather than TP. However, as a compromise the Toolbox S-Talent actually uses press turns, unlike regular Talent Arts and S-Talents which are free turn-wise. These special items that toolbox uses can only be crafted by using Jeht's inventor's table in Gustav's Laboratory and require rare materials to craft. However, these special item-using talent arts are incredibly powerful, their effects including fully filling everyone's TP, fully healing everyone's HP and AP while granting reraise, stealing any dropped item at an 100% chance, or instantly killing a single attacking enemy with a powerful counter.

Dark Descent is a much simpler move in practice, dealing colossal dark damage to one foe that pierces 75% of DEF while granting all allies the sidestep status. Like every other talent and s-talent it costs 100 TP to use.

[adventureshadows]

The road less traveled is rarely paved with perfect intentions. Bikepacking, like life, is a journey of discovery, and sometimes that discovery involves a healthy dose of "what-wases-I-thinking?" moments. But fret not, fellow adventurer! For these wobbles on the path are the very threads woven into the rich tapestry of experience.

Bikepacking is as personal as a fingerprint. Some find solace in the meticulous ritual of a morning coffee, cherishing the comforting weight of their favorite grinder. Others treat sleep like a sacred vow, their slumber a non-negotiable indulgence. Still others embrace minimalism, a testament to their ability to thrive on the bare essentials. There's no "right" way, only the way that resonates with your soul. This journey is about uncovering your own needs, your own rhythm against the wind.

With each expedition, the landscape shifts, demanding a unique approach. Packing becomes a dance between anticipation and restraint. Does the route offer laundry facilities? Three pairs of socks might be a luxury, not a necessity. Sharing gear with a fellow wanderer fosters camaraderie and lightens the load. Remember, your puffy jacket can be a loyal daytime companion and a nighttime bodyguard against the chill. Let your layers be adaptable, just like your spirit.

The thrill of the unknown beckons, but so does the responsibility of planning. While picturesque campsites and breathtaking sunrises may dominate your dreams, don't overlook the logistical backbone of your route. Where will you find water, supplies? How will you handle unexpected detours? A well-considered route is a safety net, a silent promise of peace amidst the adventure.

Be your own master mechanic, for self-reliance is a badge of honor in the wilds. A spare inner tube, a trusty repair kit, a chain link, and a multitool – these are the talismans of a prepared soul. Pack them with the same reverence you pack your sense of wonder. Tailor your gear list to the terrain you'll conquer. Remember, preparation is not a weight, but a pair of wings.

Distance is a relative concept. Don't underestimate the added heft of your fully loaded steed. Design your daily mileage with your fitness level in mind. Allow yourself ample time to arrive at camp before the sun dips low, gifting yourself precious moments to unwind and refuel beneath a canopy of stars.

Embrace the unexpected! Sometimes the greatest discoveries lie off the beaten path. Be flexible, a willow in the wind. A friendly local might reveal a hidden gem, a spontaneous detour leading you to a feast under a starlit sky. Perhaps after days of conquering miles, your body whispers for a day of rest, or a shorter ride. "Be like water, my friend," they say. Adapt, flow, and find your rhythm.

One final note, a whisper of caution: a helmet is your loyal guardian. Miles from civilization or nestled near the city's heart, a head injury is a souvenir you don't want to collect. Ride safe, and may your adventures be filled with the music of laughter and the whispers of the wind.

[ask-emoripals]

top ten list of all the knives that sunny owns

🔪: *Cracks knuckles* Ah hell yeah.

10: three-bladed knife. Outside of the novelty of a tri-bladed knife it really isn’t anything special, still a pretty cool knife though.

9: Recreation of Stone Age knife. Pretty damn badass recreation and a great way of seeing history, but there’s a reason they were phased out with bronze and other metal knives

8: My first knife. Just a steak knife with a small chip on its blade. Still nice to keep for nostalgia.

7: Workplace utility knife. High up primarily for it’s practicality for cutting into boxes and other containers… surprisingly effective in lockpicking into abandoned buildings.

6: Medieval dagger. (with sheath) Makes me feel like a badass assassin, and the sheathe is quite pretty and nice to stim with.

5: Serrated knife with foot long blade. Effectively a short sword. Almost never carry it in public but it’s great for cutting meat from the grocery store, and the serrated edges are good for opening cans. Can’t get higher due to people thinking I’m a serial killer for having this with me.

4: Butterfly knife. Badass appearance and opening mechanism. I use primarily for knife tricks, though it’s great for carving wood.

3: Aztec sacrificial knife. A birthday gift from Mari. Blade is so fucking sharp that I got a severe bleeding by merely brushing against it slightly. Fancy appearance especially with the obsidian blade.

2: Swiss Army knife. Nice appearance, cool and practical functionalities, and is usable in a lot of situations. Less of a knife as much as it it a multitool. But so very awesome.

1: Puukko. A damn beautiful knife, sheath is wood carved with cute kitties, blade has some nice runes, and the handle is made from birch and is so very pleasant to handle. Extremely practical, and can be used to cut meat, brush clearing, cutting tree branches and firewood.

And this is my list for my knife collection. Do ask me other questions involving knives or other weapons, and perhaps the jewelry and crafts I’ve made too.