#Tricky has no self preservation skills

[miss-atena]

I'm without internet but fuck it, TWSTumblr hear me out on this one.

I see a lot of people Hc Jade as autistic and Floyd with ADHD and although both r amazing Hcs, I can't help but remember just how entangled with genetics those are.

So... AuDHD TWEELS

First reasoning for this is that those r really entangled with genetics, and since the twins are identical twins that meant that they were a single embryo that sit up into 2 people (per human logic, not considering how merfolk might work in this specific case).

Second: Although Jade fits into a lot of autistic traits and Floyd ADHD ones, some autistic and ADHD traits overlap each other in certain areas. And it is quite tricky to nail down which one one has, specially considering that only on recent studies and research did people actually understood that 1 person can have both.

Jade AND Floyd both show high, long lasting interest in specific topics. Jade's being Mountains and Mushrooms, while Floyd is fashion, more focused on the shoes aspect, and seemingly cooking. I don't think it is a stretch to say how he enjoys cooking, since it it almost feels second nature how much he knows about it and can deduct or do with that skill with ease. (We can see how good he is at deducting what to do food wise on his Culinary Crucible vignettes).

Both shows deep emotional knowledge but a sort of disconnection to their own emotions, something that I as an Autistic person can say 100% fits the criteria. Jade is very good at reading others emotions, but can be noted as detached when it comes to showing this to others, which he clearly uses to his advantage to seem polite and as approachable as he can be. Floyd on the other hand, is very in tune with others emotions (tho most times he doesn't put them into consideration), and is relatively good at expressing his owns although in a very intense way, but he lacks the self control and self preservation skills, noted by his rather bluntness when saying what he wants and also how he doesn't hold back from dropping whatever he doesn't want to anymore in a blink of an eye.

Jade is particularly noted to eat a lot, and as much as people do the canibal Jade theory, that can be just a form of anxiety reducing mechanism, much like stimming. More common in the ADHD aspect in my experience, some people may need multiple sensory inputs to keep themselves grounded in during a taxing day or task. For Floyd, since he does seem to have a deep interest in cooking, at least more than Jade in my view, his relationship with it is very much involving expanding his horizons. He doesn't seem to have a particular problem with texture, flavours, appearance or smell, but he does have a problem with things being too much of the same, and so repeating dishes a lot of doing something straight out the recipe feels taxing and boring. His way of dealing with food is by making something different to keep even the same ever dish interesting. (Again for proof of this, his Culinary Crucible vignettes are a great way of understanding this side of his.)

I can go on more and more, but I don't want to use all my data for a singular post.

[tierneywalther26]

Is Desktop Improvement Dead? Or Still Worth It? Dice Com Profession Advice

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[azeez-unv]

Psychology: six life occasions where silence is the answer: mastering the art of silent communication

Have you ever experienced a moment when words seem to lose their power, and silence becomes the most eloquent response? There are times when silence can speak volumes, and mastering the art of silent communication is an important life skill that can shape our relationships, our decision-making process, and even our self-perception.

Take, for example, the witness account of a friend of mine who found himself in a heated quarrel with his spouses. The tug-of-war of words reached a point of rupture, where any further conversation would only add fuel to the fire. In the heat of the moment, he chose silence.

“I simply stopped arguing and looked at her. It was as if time stood still, and I could see the rage draining out of her face. The silence was deafening, but it was also healing.”

Sometimes, not responding with words but just listening can diffuse tension.

His experience demonstrates how choosing not to retaliate with words can transform a hostile situation. It’s a clear reminder that we have the option to pause before we speak or react, allowing us to navigate difficult conversations more effectively. In these moments, silence isn’t about winning or losing an argument—it’s about understanding and respect.

So how can you tell when it’s best to hold your tongue? It might seem tricky at first, especially if you’re accustomed to expressing yourself verbally. But let’s delve into some signs that suggest it might be time for a tactical retreat into silence.

1. The escalating argument

Ever found yourself in a heated argument that continually rises in temperature? It’s amazing how each retort can stoke the flames, bringing about a conflagration of words that scorch the air. In these situations, choosing silence instead of another fiery comeback can significantly cool the atmosphere. Silence not only prevents the situation from worsening but also allows for a moment of reflection and understanding. It provides a pause in the heat of the moment, giving both parties a chance to de-escalate and find common ground, ultimately leading to a more productive resolution.

2. The unproductive discussion

How about those frustrating conversations that go in circles, like a ropy whirlpool of disagreement? Here, silence could serve as an anchor, pulling the discussion back to the center and providing a much-needed reset. By staying silent, you allow the opportunity for others to express their thoughts without interruption. This can break the cycle of unproductivity and lead to a more focused and effective exchange of ideas. Silence, in this context, becomes a powerful tool to steer the discussion in a more productive direction.

3. The moment of disrespect

Then there are those times when you’re confronted with disrespectful remarks. The verbal jabs sting, don’t they? Instead of launching grenades of your own, perhaps standing silently can shield you from the further onslaught while preserving your dignity. Silence in the face of disrespect is a display of self-control and strength. It sends a clear message that you refuse to engage in disrespectful behavior. It can also prompt the other party to reflect on their actions and potentially lead to a more respectful and constructive conversation.

4. The emotional overflow

Emotional outbursts can be like a sudden downpour. The words drench everything, leaving you soaked in feelings. Silence, in these instances, can be akin to a sturdy umbrella — providing respite and allowing for emotional clarity. When emotions run high, speaking impulsively can often lead to saying things you might regret later. Silence allows you to regain composure and assess your feelings before responding. It offers a moment of self-care, helping you communicate more effectively and empathetically once the emotional storm has passed.

5. The uninvited intrusion

Have you ever felt someone inch into your personal boundaries during a conversation? It can feel unnerving, right? Perhaps, here, silence can be your fortress — protecting your personal space and deterring unwelcome visitors. Silence serves as a boundary-setting tool. It conveys that certain topics or intrusions are not acceptable. This can help maintain your comfort and security during a conversation, ensuring that your personal boundaries are respected.

6. The encounter with ignorance

Sometimes you stumble upon perspectives that are fueled by ignorance more than knowledge. It may feel like talking to a brick wall, doesn’t it? Rather than throwing yourself against it, silence can be your ladder over it. In the face of ignorance, silence can be a strategic choice. It allows you to preserve your energy and mental well-being by not engaging in futile arguments. Instead, it can prompt self-reflection in the other party, potentially opening the door to more informed and constructive discussions in the future.

Silence is a potent tool to navigate certain challenging conversations. It’s a way to exercise control, maintain respect, encourage understanding, and foster healing.

[lottrubin5]

As fantastic and pleasant as pet cats are, caring for them is undoubtedly not uncomplicated. As a dependable pet owner, it is crucial that you just take the time essential to teach yourself on all that there is to know about caring for a cat. This post contains cat care guidance to support you be the very best cat operator you can be.

To aid stop tapeworm infestation in cats, feed a compact total of foodstuff quality diatomaceous earth for two weeks out of every thirty day period. About a quarter of a teaspoon per cat for every day is sufficient. Foodstuff grade diatomaceous earth kills inner parasites and will cause them to be expelled from the process. Let kittens and cat-friendly pet pet dogs get to know every single other slowly. Put up a infant gate to continue to keep puppies in just one space when your new kitten receives used to its surroundings. Supervise carefully when the kitten ventures to the gate to fulfill the dogs. When the kitten feels risk-free, it will climb the gate. If it feels threatened, it will pop proper again out to security. Preserve your cat indoors. Not like dogs, it is almost difficult to confine a cat to a yard. This can guide to several dangers for your cat, from autos, puppies, health conditions from feral cats, and simply disappearing to elements not known. Loose cats also be a nuisance to other people, generally killing songbirds and leaving unwelcome "deposits" in neighbor's gardens. If your cat genuinely enjoys the outdoor, they can be skilled to put on a harness and leash or you can spend in a specialty cat fence or screened-in porch. If your cat is chubby, there are two points you want to do. 1st, you have to alter the quantity of food you give them, and the other is that you will need to get them exercising. Get them cat toys, or engage in with them your self, to make guaranteed they are receiving the activity they require to slender down. Discover a litter that your cat enjoys. Distinctive litters have different smells and textures, so assistance your cat to uncover a litter that he is frequently relaxed with applying. Cats usually like to retain items the similar while, so don't experiment also usually or your cat may possibly avoid the litter box. If your cat has to have a operation these kinds of as getting spayed or neutered, they will need relaxation when they occur property. It is tricky to continue to keep a cat from leaping up on furnishings, but necessary to stay clear of pulling out stitches. Designate an area in your property for your cat to recuperate where by they will be a lot less very likely to injure on their own, right up until they are healed plenty of to roam no cost. Give CFA Registered Maine Coon Kittens . These may possibly not perform for every person, but they can be valuable if they do the job for you. Line the litter box with a person of these liners, and then put cat litter in as regular. If it works accurately, you must be ready to collect the liner and dispose of the litter. Regrettably, often cats just scratch the liner to parts as they are performing their small business. If you are owning an concern with your cat, check out to get some enter from other cat owners. It can actually assist to get suggestions from fellow cat owners. You can track down message boards about cats on the net if you look for for them. On these discussion boards you can request for information, or you can just communicate with a vet. Feed your cat a handful of different kinds of foods. CFA Registered Maine Coon Kittens can enable him not get too finicky. If you feed them the exact issue working day in and working day out, it will be the only factor that they are ready to take in later on down the highway. Order higher high quality food stuff for your cat. Often seem at the substances to start with. You want to see either fish, rooster or beef noted. Some food items contain a good deal of fillers like corn products and solutions, will not invest in these. Cats in the wild are meat eaters, and domestic cats need meat to assure ideal wellness. Although cats make wonderful animals, it is very important that they are cared for in a correct method. Make use of all of the cat treatment guidelines and suggestions you have figured out from this short article to assure that your kitty stays healthful and enjoys a fantastic, fulfilling lifetime. He or she will unquestionably respect it.

[the-magnificent-hacker-ns]

Tricky!!!!! Why were you still working with a sprained ankle?!?

Not sprained, it just kinda hurts.. it happened when I was hiding from big guy here, Camo.

[breelandwalker]

Secular Celebrations - Lughnasadh

From Midsummer, we move to Lughnasadh in early August. Also called Lammas, this is the first of the three harvest holidays. Much of what you’ll see associated with this holiday involves bread, bread, and for a change of pace, more bread and also corn. But there are also associations with field games, music, crafts, artistry, games of skill, self-expression, wishmaking, and the first fruits of the harvest. It’s another holiday for picnics and bonfires, so keep that in mind when you’re planning your festivities.

It’s probably easiest to talk about the food first, since that’s a big part of this holiday. Lots of witches bake bread of some sort for Lughnasadh, in observance of the grain harvest. This would be a great time to put that sourdough starter to use, if you made one. But don’t limit yourself to bread alone! Late summer fruits and vegetables are also coming into season and that gives you plenty of options for kitchen witchery. Check your local farmer’s market or produce stand for what’s available, or see what’s in season for your area, since this will vary from region to region.

You can make jams and preserves, try your hand at winemaking or brewing beer, make a vegetarian or fruit-based dish, or cook over an open fire, if you have the option. You should be able to harvest things from your garden as well, since it will be producing by this time, and this is another great holiday for visiting pick-your-own berry patches and orchards. If you can, share what you harvest or make with friends and neighbors. This is a time to remember your circle and your community as well. None of us stand alone, and we are stronger when we stand together and nurture those bonds.

Make decorations with wheat stalks and corn husks, and thank the fields and the sun for their bounty. Just like on Midsummer, you can hang ribbons and paper wishes from trees and shrubs if you like. I’m also partial to (very carefully) gathering brambles, rose thorns, and holly hedge cuttings for use later in the year around Lughnasadh. It’s a tricky, prickly business, but they come in very handy when you’re preparing magical protections for the home.

If you can have a small bonfire or have the opportunity to light up a cauldron or a burning bowl, you can throw incense or paper wishes into the fire. If you like, you can also throw paper packets containing your regrets into the fire, symbolically ridding them from your life and freeing you to move forward.

If the weather allows, have a field day! Play games, have a cookout or a barbecue, play music, and enjoy yourself. Celebrate the abundance that the first harvest brings into your life and all the hard work you’ve done so far in the year. Provided that your circle can gather, maybe have an informal tournament with games of skill and chance. For those of you who just went, “-gasp- Trivia contest!” you’re right on the mark. That carnival atmosphere comes into play again for Lughnasadh, so have a little fun with your near and dear.

Handicrafts and the arts are also celebrated at Lughnasadh. It’s a good time to start that new project you’ve been meaning to do, or to try your hand at a new skill.

This is also a time to begin reaping what you’ve sown and to examine your own progress since the beginning of the growing season. Meditate on how your personal projects are going. What progress have you made toward your goals? What have you learned so far this year? What promises have you kept, which ones could use more dedication, and which ones fell by the wayside?

How have your actions, for good or for ill, affected the direction of your path? What have you sown that is now coming to fruition? What is still budding? What has yet to manifest? What might require more of your attention?

Meditate also on self-expression. How well do you communicate with others? What would you like to improve? Are there boundaries that you need to clarify or reinforce? How much are you allowed or able to be your truest self? What do you long to be able to do or say or express differently?

Keep in mind that progress, education, and recovery do not happen in straight lines or have constant upward trajectories. Be patient with yourself. You may not be exactly where you thought you’d be, but you’re still further along than you were. Even a single step forward counts, and it’s okay to stop and rest if you need to.

- Hex Positive, Ep. 011 - Secular Celebrations (November 01, 2020)

Other Posts In This Series:

Imbolc

Spring Equinox

Beltane

Midsummer

Lughnasadh

Autumn Equinox

Samhain

Yule

If you’re enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop.

The Hex Positive podcast is a proud member of the Nerd and Tie Podcast Network.😊

[ask-mighteeone]

What is the opinion of Yun-Jin Lee and Ji-Woon Hak of each survivor?

((Alright this was a long one. Under the cut for the answers! Yun Jin will answer first in italics, then Ji-Woon will answer. This is all general headcanon and not at all directed at any other RP or Ask blogs.))

How do Yun Jin Lee and Ji-Woon Hak feel about each of the survivors?

Dwight Fairfield: “His lack of true confidence is a hindrance at times. Though I suppose I respect him for trying and not simply laying down and hiding.” // “He’s fun to play with. His screams are so sweet!”

Meg Thomas: “She’s a determined girl. I like that about her.” // “She’s hard to catch, but that makes it so much more gratifying when I finally do get my hands on her.”

Claudette Morel: “She’s too soft.” // “She’s easy to exploit, if she’s with the right people.”

Jake Park: “I respect Jake. He knows his strengths and executes his part well.” // “So stoic… I’ll break him someday.”

Nea Karlsson: “Does she think the Entity’s realm is a game?” // “Fun to play with. She’s so mad when she loses!”

Laurie Strode: “She’s a true survivor, and has taught me much since I arrived here.” // “Tch. She’s a pain.”

Ace Visconti: “Where Dwight lacks confidence, Ace has too much confidence. He’s an idiot.” // “In another life, he would have been interesting to meet. Maybe he could have taught me to play poker?”

Bill Overbeck: "Truly a shame he's known little but worlds full of suffering." // "I need to keep my eye on him or he might surprise me during a trial."

Feng Min: “I don’t respect her lax attitude towards our situation. This is serious.” // “Gamer girl thinks this is one of her tournaments she can win? I’d like to see her try and beat me.”

David King: “His first instinct is to fight the killer. Fool.” // “Meathead.”

Quentin Smith: “The fact he’s here at all shows how cruel the Entity is. I feel sorry for him.” // “The Nightmare likes him. I don’t see why. Completely average.”

David Tapp: “Another one to learn much from. Much like Ms. Strode, I stay close to him.” // “He’s not my survivor to torment, but that doesn’t stop me from trying.”

Kate Denson: “The others find her songs inspiring. I don’t.” // “Songbird reminds me of one of my old bandmates…”

Adam Francis: “It is truly unfortunate he got pulled into this world. He deserves much better.” // “He’s tricky, but he can’t outrun me and that’s all that matters.”

Jeff Johansen: “I feel no strong feelings about him. He’s rather quiet.” // “Not as tough as he looks. Or maybe I’m just better than him.”

Jane Romero: “Ms. Romero is an excellent teacher and has a good head on her shoulders.” // “Her and her stupid locker tricks… She makes me wish I didn’t have to reload.”

Ash Williams: “He’s...quirky.” // “He’s weird.”

Nancy Wheeler: “A bright young girl.” // “I find her in lockers a lot.”

Steve Harrington: “Is there such a thing as being too much of a team player? If so, that would be him.” // “His altruism lands him in bad situations-- ones I like to exploit.”

Yui Kimura: “Another one I greatly respect. Ms. Kimura is a fighter.” // “Too cocky, I like to put her in her place.”

Zarina Kassir: “She has valuable skills, if only she’d use them for self preservation more often…” // “

Cheryl Mason: “She’s been through worse horrors than the Entity’s realm. I can’t imagine living the life she has.” // “She’s not scared of me and that bothers me… But I’ll make her scared in time.”

Felix Richter: "He has good skills and is easy to learn from." // "He's so painfully boring."

Elodie Rakoto: “Her knowledge is invaluable to getting us all out of here alive.” // “She makes beautiful music when I hook her.”

Yun Jin Lee: // “My favorite producer! I love messing with Yun Jin. But don't tell her that, it'll be our secret, okay?”

Jill Valentine: “Ms. Valentine is most certainly an equal. I greatly respect her.” // “She’s a pain to deal with.”

Leon S. Kennedy: “Kennedy was useful in teaching me to use flashbangs. I repaid him by teaching him to use pallets to further his survival.” // “I’m not sure who I dislike more, him or Valentine.”

[maxismatchccworld]

Patch Notes

Update 06/03/2020 PC: 1.63.133.1020 / Mac: 1.63.133.1220 Console: Version 1.25

The Sims 4 Eco Lifestyle Expansion Pack drops in just a mere few days, and since we know that living your best Eco Lifestyle can take a little extra elbow grease, we’ve added some exciting quality-of-life improvements to help pave the way.

Between Inventory updates, new CAS assets from a surprise partnership with M·A·C, the return of two beloved NPCs, as well as some really cool new Build features, we hope you enjoy the update.

-SimGuruJill & SimGuruRusskii

NEW & IMPROVED FEATURES

INVENTORY UPDATES

Fellow hoarders, this one’s for you: We have updated the Sim Inventory with the ability to Filter, Sort, Favorite, Multi-Select, and Multi-Sell in one easy flick of the wrist. Managing that cumbersome pile of collectables you’ve been racking up for the past five years has never been so easy!

FREE PLACEMENT OF DOORS AND WINDOWS

Following in true Eco Lifestyle fashion, Door and Window placement is now also Off-the-Grid. But not that kind of grid. The limiting kind of tile grid that used to keep you from placing your windows and doors precisely where you wanted them. By holding down the Alt key while dragging, you can enjoy the smooth sensations of free Door and Window placement.

LADDERS

Ladders have been added as part of the Build System. Find your free Classic Wooden Ladder in the Build catalog in the Stairs (& Ladders) category. Unlike Island Living’s Dock and Ladder objects for use on water lots, these Ladders can be placed anywhere on your lot and like stairs, they can be used as a means for Sims to traverse from one floor to another.

M·A·C COSMETICS

Did you say you needed some fresh looks for your Sims? We’ve collaborated with none other than M·A·C Cosmetics to bring you 12 fashion-forward makeup assets suited for everything from everyday to night out glam. If you’re not already using it, on PC and Mac we recommend trying out the “Uncompressed Sim Textures” setting in the Options Menu, which is now enabled by default on the High and Ultra graphics settings profiles in order to see these looks really shine. While console versions of The Sims 4 do not have the setting in the Options Menu, each console spec is automatically using the optimal graphical settings based on system resources.

REPO PERSON NPC

The Repo Person NPC has graduated with honors from Discover University’s University of Britechester with a Degree in Villainy and has comfortably taken up residence in Base Game. Now everyone can taste their wrath if Bill payments fall behind.

BILLS UPDATE

Speaking of Bills, we’ve added a cohesive breakdown of Sim’s Bills information that can be accessed via an interaction on the Mailbox or Phone. Now instead of lumping everything together, you can see what percentage of your Bills go to Water, what percentage go to Power, insight into any Fees, Reductions, or Penalties. All this and more, calculated and cleanly presented for your finer understanding.

LEGACY NEIGHBORHOOD MAP TAGS

We have gone back and added Map Tags with Neighborhood Descriptions to existing neighborhoods that didn’t yet have them. We now have delightful icons, names, and descriptions for the no-longer-forgotten Willow Creek, Oasis Springs, Newcrest, and Windenburg. Ok, feel free to freak out now.

OFF-THE-GRID UPDATES

This one is tricky to list out in a single paragraph with attempted wit, so I’ll just drop this bullet list off right here:

The Off-the-Grid Lot Trait now ties into our new Bill updates, drawing from Water and Power utility. Without excess utility, lots function off-the-grid as they did before. With excess utility, they function more like an on-the-grid lot.

There is a new Off-the-Grid Build category that will allow players to find Off-the-Grid and survival-esque objects.

We've done a pass on candles to ensure they properly work when electricity is out.

Off-the-Grid supported Fridges now have an "Add Ice" interaction that will allow them to keep food preserved—so long as the ice remains!

Sim will now autonomously use stoves and fridges when Off-the-Grid, not just grills.

Harvestables now grant unique buffs when consumed off-the-grid.

Dogs and Toddlers now have a unique interaction to be bathed in Bathtubs even when Off-the-Grid.

Objects can now be cleaned using the "Use Elbow Grease" interaction. Yummy.

Players are able to gather Water utility from fishing spots in base game. With Island Living they can gather from the waterfall. Water can also be gathered from any world with swimmable 'ocean' water. With Seasons, water can be gathered from snow drifts.

Off-the-Grid specific buffs will now take into account motives and Sim traits when determining if a Sim should receive a positive or negative moodlet when living Off-the-Grid.

We've added multiple new recipes that can be cooked while Off-the-Grid given a Sim has the proper cooking skill level. Some recipes require special ingredients like the Boiling Frog Hot Pot—which adds a really neat survival element to off-the-grid gameplay, while providing Sims with powerful new moodlets that will help them survive in the wild.

NO TRESPASSING

Some people who have the Vampires Game Pack appreciate Vlad’s antics more than others. I personally love receiving a charming visit from Vlad, and sometimes I could really use a kind compliment about my neck. But we’ve heard there are a select few that don’t quite like having their Sim’s necks bitten and motives tanked by an invasive nighttime visitor with no respect for boundaries. Keep Vampires and other unwanted visitors at bay with a new No Trespassing interaction we’ve added to the Door.

SEND HOME INTERACTION

Speaking of unwelcome visitors, we’ve also added a new Send Home interaction that’s available on visiting NPCs or as a self-interaction in the case of multiple visitors. How is this interaction any different from Ask To Leave or Go Away, you might ask? Convenience. Unlike its less efficient predecessors, this interaction is nearly instantaneous and leaves your visitors with no hurt feelings or Relationship impact. We added it as a useful tool for players, not necessarily as a story-telling mechanism.

BUILD MODE ITEMS GRANT GAMEPLAY EFFECTS

How you build your lot can now affect your gameplay. Certain objects such as wall patterns, floor patterns, fences, and columns bring different gameplay modifiers. Some of these modifiers affect how your Bills and utilities are calculated by decreasing or increasing your Power or Water utility production or usage, as well increasing or decreasing the price of bills. Environment Score can now be impacted by certain objects and materials. Drywall walls without wall patterns applied now decrease environment score like they did in The Sims 3! The choice of floor and wall materials used can also affect the ability to spread fire or puddles at an increased or lessened rate. And if you’d rather build your lot without having to think about these things, don’t worry. There’s an Option in the Gameplay menu to turn all of this off.

FIREFIGHTER NPC

Oh hey, and speaking of Fire, that reminds me. Did you hear that we’ve added Firefighter NPCs to the game? We took nods from classic Firefighter NPC behavior from The Sims, The Sims 2, and The Sims 3 and added a few small twists for The Sims 4. When a fire breaks out, Firefighters will come automatically to your lot if you already have a Fire Alarm installed. That way, if you still like to let things burn baby burn, you can just “accidentally” forget to place a Fire Alarm. It’s okay. We won’t tell anybody. If you honestly did forget to place a Fire Alarm, you can call the Fire Department from the Phone or by clicking on the fire itself. If the Fire Department is called, but there is not an active fire, they will call you on your lapse in judgement and charge you a fine. You won’t be punished if there was legitimately a fire that was extinguished before they arrive though. The Firefighter Uniform can be accessed in CAS and gives any Sim wearing it the Fireproof Buff, which gives them some extra protection against fires as well as make them more efficient at putting out fires themselves. It’s worth noting that Firefighter NPC’s do not show up in Island Living’s Sulani. Sulani already has their local Fire Brigade to handle these kinds of emergencies and besides, who wants to wear all that heavy Firefighter gear in the tropics?

STYLED LOOKS FOR TOTS AND KIDS

More than 20 New Styled Looks have been added for Children and Toddlers, using existing Base Game CAS assets to better flesh out some outfit categories that previously felt sparse.

BALANCING PASS OF PHONE CALL INVITATIONS

After five years of Expansion Packs, Game Packs, and Stuff Packs our phone call invites were admittedly starting to get a little spammy. Moments after moving in, you’ve got Lucas Munch hitting you up, asking you to go to the Bluffs with him. Then not long after, you might have had Vivian Lewis asking you to join her at The Spice Festival. Jeez, let me get settled in first, why don’t ya? We’ve done a tuning pass to rebalance all of these previously competing Phone invites to give you a more meaningful and holistic experience.

LESS INVASIVE EARBUDS

In the same vein as the above balancing pass, we wanted to smooth out one of our more pressing notifications. The free earbuds pop-up that comes with Fitness Stuff has been changed to a more passive TNS and gifts your Sim the earbuds automatically when it triggers. The days of telling the game over and over that you don’t want free earbuds, or worse - hitting OK by accident - is a thing of the past.

CONSOLE UPDATES

Eco Lifestyle releasing on the same day across all platforms marks an important milestone for The Sims 4 as Simmers get to play the same content and share new creations on The Gallery together. In this update Console Simmers have a few additional features to improve their quality of life:

We have added a new Controls Overlay Reminder that shows up throughout CAS, Gallery, Live Mode and Build Mode which should make it easier for new Simmers to jump in and not need to remember all the controls.

If you don’t want to be reminded and you know all the controls by heart, you can turn off the Controls Overlay Reminder in the Game Options > Other menu

The controller overlay screens remain available for those who want them.

Now onto the fixes and updates:

The Sims 4

macOS players should no longer encounter the setLocale.zsh error. However, both Origin and TS4 must be up to date.

Sims will not have random accessories or clothing pieces when changing into towels.

Style Influencer Sims can now remove trends they have created, with the Reset Trend interaction.

Fixed an issue where Sims were not able to Care for Self after they had been in daycare when they were a Toddler.

Some roofs were updated to remove the appearance of black sides when placed on ceilings.

Active Sims will no longer get a Tense moodlet for lack of exercise when finishing exercising. Do you even push up bro?

Sims will no longer get the Fatigued moodlet immediately after starting a workout. Now, we know that endurance takes time to build, but we decided to give Sims a chance to enjoy their workout before being completely fatigued right away.

Child Sims will now be able to unlock the Video Gaming Skill after they have maxed out their Mental Skill instead of their Motor Skill, which was causing adult skills to reset for Child Sims when they completed aspirations.

Fixed an issue in which some Households did not have their names displayed in Manage Worlds.

Corrected requirements for completing the Great Landscaper task that is part of the Mansion Baron Aspiration.

Fixed an issue in which when utilities are shut off (either because of past due bills or Off-The-Grid) adding objects from Build Mode such as Lamps, would add them turned On.

The Water Pump, Fishing Holes, Romantic Garden’s Whispering Wishing Well, and Get Famous’s Luminary’s Exotic Water Garden now have the Gather Water interaction when the Off-the-Grid Lot Trait is applied.

Fixed an issue in which the Subtle Saucer Light was not being so subtle and made objects added from Build Mode be placed randomly when dragged near it.

Teen Sims will now see the appropriate tooltip when trying to acquire the Fertile Trait from the Rewards Store. No, they are not Robots.

Fixed an issue in which some Roof Eaves were clipping into enclosed blocks.

Fixed an issue in which the Clean Up interaction would drop off the queue if dirty dishes were placed on a counter.

Since we added a new trash bike to Eco Lifestyle, we’ve made the bicycle helmet available for everyone in CAS. Now you can outfit your Sim in a helmet, regardless of owning a pack that includes bikes.

Sims will now not receive occasional text messages asking them for a Date from other Sims that they are not romantically involved with. Because it was aaaakward…

Toddler Sims will not be able to Ask for Mentoring on some in progress mentoring interactions to strangers. Except for “Invite to Bob to Music” because we can dance if we want to, we can leave our friends behind, ‘cause your friends don’t dance and if they don’t dance well... they’re not friends of mine.

Fixed an issue with textures for the tops and landings on some Staircases.

Fixed an issue that did not allow randomizer to work correctly when Male Sims had Makeup on Create a Sim.

Plants can now be placed closer to foundations with moveobjects cheat enabled, as long as most of the plant's footprint is outside of the foundation.

Fixed an issue in which Simoleons were not added to Household Funds when moving and selling furniture.

Fixed an issue in which previewing certain windows on diagonal walls reverted their color back to the default color swatch.

Simmers on macOS Catalina and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 GPU will no longer experience seeing a squared shadow under their Sims.

Fixed an issue with the Wooden Prairie-Style Two-Panel door in which color swatches were not displaying correctly on both sides of the door.

Sims now can dispose of packed lunches that have spoiled. Out, foul food!

Fixed some oddness with disappearing Stairs within enclosed courtyards.

Fixed a Stair issue with Landings not working properly on lots with raised foundations and basements. Sims will no longer walk through walls and things should now look appropriate.

Fixed missing Career Promotion screens for careers in various packs.

Fixed User Interface elements and Icons across multiple packs.

Spandrels can now be properly applied on Fences.

Stairs will now not shrink when increasing Foundation heights.

Get Together

Fixed an issue in which non local Sim Townies would spawn in Windenburg’s Island, now named The Crumbling Isle.

Fixed an issue that caused an error to occur when deleting or editing Clubs.

As much as Windenburgians (Windenburgers? Windenburguese? Windenburglites?) love visitors from other worlds, they have voted them off the Island. Sorry, not sorry!

City Living

Fixed an issue that caused time to be desynchronized at Speed 3. Bending the space time continuum no more!

Vet Clinics can no longer be placed in Penthouses.

Yard Sale customers will no longer wander inside Sims’ houses and interact with their belongings. While prospective buyers are nice to have in any sale, this was just rude, this is NOT a Welcome Wagon.

Cats & Dogs

Game progress will no longer be lost when editing/adding/deleting career outfits in Create a Sim.

Fixed an issue that made Pets’ needs to not be fulfilled if not playing an active household.

Pets’ ehm… poop is now able to be used as plant fertilizer. Happy gardening!

Seasons

Sims can now sell Flowers in stacks from their Inventory.

Sims will now appropriately put their Umbrellas away before performing some interactions. Because WooHoo while having an Umbrella out in the open, seems complicated, we are not judging… but seems complicated.

Fixed an issue that made Simmer created Holidays in the Calendar populate after a season ended.

Father Winter will now be able to remove his beard and change in Create a Sim if he is part of an active Household. But who would dare shave Father Winter’s beard?? Who?!

Get Famous

Fixed the issue with the Actor Career where Sims were unable to complete their gig when they would travel and return home before it was time for the gig.

Island Living

Lotta Cocolatas will now be made with actual Coconuts taken from Sims’ Inventories. What were they made from before? We will never know! Never accept imitation Lotta Cocolatas… never!

Fixed an issue in which some quick meals were requiring a Microwave while being Off-The-Grid when it is not needed. Yogurt needing a microwave? I think not!

Mermaids in Create a Sim will no longer be able to have their Traits randomized. This allows them to keep their Mermaidism, as well as their air of mystery and charm.

Mermaids now will wear appropriate career outfits when going to work. So I can picture this now, Mermaids as Doctors would be a great TV show.

Fixed an issue in which some Island Living Tank Tops were categorized incorrectly in Create a Sim.

Mermaid Children made in Create a Sim will now grow up to be fully-functioning Mer-dults.

The Go To Work button for Odd Jobs has been fixed for Sims on Vacation.

The Eyedropper tool will now work on Stilts instead of only working on the Foundation Trims.

Fixed an issue in which Sims in Off-The-Grid lots were showering constantly. Now they will shower when appropriate. Though, with this heatwave, anything goes in my opinion!

“Dr. Mermaid/Merman, what do you recommend?

“I am prescribing some Vitamin Sea”

Give Russkii more coffee please...

Discover University

Student Sims will not lose their Term Presentations Boards when signing up for another term.

Simmers with Seasons additionally installed: Student Sims will no longer receive Academic Probation if they were on planned Holidays through the Calendar.

Student Sims will no longer be labeled as Graduate after completing the Graduation Ceremony. Congratulations!

Fixed an issue in which homework assignment progression was too slow and timers might have been missing in some instances.

Fixed an issue in which Sims were taking showers fully clothed. As much as the current heat wave is giving us creative ideas to cool off, it would be more efficient to not be fully clothed when showering.

Hair Style ymHair_EP08MensShavedPonytail_Black has been updated for Teens, Adults, and Elders to display all swatches. Similarly yfHair_EP08ShortBobBraid_Black has been fixed to appear as an option for Teens.

Sims that re-enroll in University after graduating or dropping out, can now rejoin their Secret Society. Likewise, if Sims get suspended and re-enrolls their progress will not be lost.

Fixed an issue with the "Gameday Glute Accommodator" chair that occasionally could make Sims invisible if they placed it in their Inventory. We don’t know what other powers the "Gameday Glute Accommodator" may have but invisibility is now not one of them.

Sims in the Law Career can now Attend Depositions from their Computers and Phones. Because you don’t need to break your computer to complete an assignment, that seems impractical.

Vampire Coffins and Sleeping Pods can now count as Beds in University Dorms.

Fixed an issue in which the Write and Publish Research Paper interaction would disappear from the options if it was cancelled midway. I mean, I understand rage quitting something but not to the point of my options to do it disappearing...amirite?

Fixed an issue with yfBody_EP08DressParty_SolidPurple in which pendant necklaces were not able to be seen if this asset was worn by Sims.

Fixed an issue that could make the Soccer interaction Study Plays with drop out from the interaction queue.

Corrected Final Exam Requirements for Elective Courses to say that for studying they need to do so on Computers or Research Machines.

To anyone who may have noticed the tiny head effect in the thumbnails if you wore the Dragon or the Lobster mascot costume without their hats, that issue has been fixed.

Humanoid Robots will no longer be able to have Traits or Aspirations modified in Create a Sim. You are a real Sim to me Robot friend, you are to me.

If a Sim already knows about the Secret Society, is it still a secret? Time will tell.

Outdoor Retreat

Herbalism recipes can now work while Off-The-Grid, however only on Off-The-Grid supported stoves.

Dine Out

Random NPCs will not leave Hamburgers on tables at restaurants anymore. As much as we like to receive free food, we don’t think it is proper to get them randomly from a stranger.

Vampires

Vampire Sims working on the Master Vampire Aspiration will no longer have the task “Survive for an Additional 20 Days as a Vampire” reset after traveling.

Vampire Sims with Full Sun Resistance are now able to properly tend to gardens and not tend to plants one at a time.

Fixed an issue in which you could set the Registered Vampire Lair Lot Trait for Venues.

Vampire child ears can now be changed after being aged-down from adult Dark Form.

The Rustic Candle Chandelier now has flame effects on the candles.

Jungle Adventure

Fans/Stans will no longer follow their adored celebrity into the jungles of Selvadorada.

Realm Of Magic

Spellcasters have regained access to Styled Looks.

Fixed an issue in which a Tank Top belonging to this pack was not categorized correctly in Create a Sim.

Hot Tubs that have been upgraded to unbreakable will no longer be broken upon performing the Zipzap Spell.

A Spellcaster is never not in vogue, but it’s always nice to have options.

Moschino

We fixed an issue in which some hotkeys in Photo Mode (particularly E and Q) were not working.

After popular demand, the Libearian bookend will now cost Simoleons. Nothing’s for free, nothing’s for freeee... take it away!

Tiny Living

Murphy beds will now be more resilient after first use. Warranty terms pending.

Fixed an issue in which Game Consoles were not usable with the all in one entertainment systems.

Fixed an issue in which Hair Styles from this pack appeared with their color swatches out of order in Create a Sim.

Fixed an issue in which Sims could not Put Bed Up their Murphy Beds after WooHoo.

We have also adjusted their pricing and comfort levels, bang for your buck!

Now the “Media Marathoner All on the Wall” will be actually the Media Marathoner All on the Wall.

[uselessidiotsquad]

From the planet asks: Mercury for Riag? Or Neptune for Ruby if that one is already done? ^w^)/

Ty for the ask :) Mercury for Riag is it!

𝟎𝟑.   𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐘   !

( 𝗌𝗒𝗆𝖻𝗈𝗅𝗂𝗓𝖾𝗌   : mind,  communication,   intellect,   reason,   language,   intelligence. )

would   you   say   that   your   muse   is   strong   minded   ?   are   they   easily   persuaded   or   drawn   off   of   their   own   path   or   hard   to   reason   with   ?   are   they   good   at   communicating   their   feelings,   wishes,   and   goals   or   do   they  struggle   with   the   general   form   of   communication   ?   are   they   easily   understanding   of   both   other   people   and   matters   out   with   their   own   control   ?   would   you   consider   them   intelligent,   book   smart,   street   smart,   and   morally   smart   ?

"Is he strong minded?"

HEHEHEHEH - Is water wet?

Yes, he's very strong minded, often to degrees that are neither good for him or others. When he's made up his mind about something, that's it. It's set. It takes an extremely large amount of work and persistence to try to change his mind about things. He is frustratingly stubborn at times and is fully aware of it.

He's not good at communicating his feelings. Riag's skilled in trying to convey information related to action, like relaying orders or direct ways of doing things. But FEELINGS? Oh by the Tree, no. He's gotten a little better at it but he's still not fully comfortable talking about them. Being more direct and proactive with things, he'd rather just try to resolve whatever caused his feelings/wishes/goals than talk about them. Also, he doesn't want to bother anyone with his issues so that in combination with not being the best at conveying it means he just keeps it to himself and it ferments.

As for understanding... hmm that's a bit tricky. He sometimes has a hard time seeing eye to eye with people and understanding where they are coming from. But often, he doesn't feel he HAS to understand them to be able to work along side them. They can have their own side to things and he has his - that doesn't mean they cannot work together.

When it comes to situations out of his control, however, no. Riag is not understanding of it. He tends to obsess on things that he can influence and so a topic beyond his realm of influence is frustrating at best. Then the 'what-if's start coming in and should it go ill, he will take it that he failed. There's always something in his mind that he could have done to change things. Is that a bit ego-eccentric? Probably.

I would say he's intelligent, more than book-smart. Street smart is a no just due to his sometimes astounding lack of self-preservation lol. As for morally smart - perhaps? He tends to do things that he thinks are 'right' whether or not they fall in line with the traditional definition of it. But they are often motivated by good intents, so maybe?

[thesims4blogger]

The Sims 4: New Game Patch (June 3rd, 2020)

There’s a new Sims 4 PC update available via Origin.

Remove all MODS and Custom Content before updating your game

Update 06/03/2020 PC: 1.63.133.1020 / Mac: 1.63.133.1220 Console: Version 1.25

The Sims 4 Eco Lifestyle Expansion Pack drops in just a mere few days, and since we know that living your best Eco Lifestyle can take a little extra elbow grease, we’ve added some exciting quality-of-life improvements to help pave the way.

Between Inventory updates, new CAS assets from a surprise partnership with M·A·C, the return of two beloved NPCs, as well as some really cool new Build features, we hope you enjoy the update.

-SimGuruJill & SimGuruRusskii

NEW & IMPROVED FEATURES

INVENTORY UPDATES

Fellow hoarders, this one’s for you: We have updated the Sim Inventory with the ability to Filter, Sort, Favorite, Multi-Select, and Multi-Sell in one easy flick of the wrist. Managing that cumbersome pile of collectables you’ve been racking up for the past five years has never been so easy!

FREE PLACEMENT OF DOORS AND WINDOWS

Following in true Eco Lifestyle fashion, Door and Window placement is now also Off-the-Grid. But not that kind of grid. The limiting kind of tile grid that used to keep you from placing your windows and doors precisely where you wanted them. By holding down the Alt key while dragging, you can enjoy the smooth sensations of free Door and Window placement.

LADDERS

Ladders have been added as part of the Build System. Find your free Classic Wooden Ladder in the Build catalog in the Stairs (& Ladders) category. Unlike Island Living’s Dock and Ladder objects for use on water lots, these Ladders can be placed anywhere on your lot and like stairs, they can be used as a means for Sims to traverse from one floor to another.

M·A·C COSMETICS

Did you say you needed some fresh looks for your Sims? We’ve collaborated with none other than M·A·C Cosmetics to bring you 12 fashion-forward makeup assets suited for everything from everyday to night out glam. If you’re not already using it, on PC and Mac we recommend trying out the “Uncompressed Sim Textures” setting in the Options Menu, which is now enabled by default on the High and Ultra graphics settings profiles in order to see these looks really shine. While console versions of The Sims 4 do not have the setting in the Options Menu, each console spec is automatically using the optimal graphical settings based on system resources.

REPO PERSON NPC

The Repo Person NPC has graduated with honors from Discover University’s University of Britechester with a Degree in Villainy and has comfortably taken up residence in Base Game. Now everyone can taste their wrath if Bill payments fall behind.

BILLS UPDATE

Speaking of Bills, we’ve added a cohesive breakdown of Sim’s Bills information that can be accessed via an interaction on the Mailbox or Phone. Now instead of lumping everything together, you can see what percentage of your Bills go to Water, what percentage go to Power, insight into any Fees, Reductions, or Penalties. All this and more, calculated and cleanly presented for your finer understanding.

LEGACY NEIGHBORHOOD MAP TAGS

We have gone back and added Map Tags with Neighborhood Descriptions to existing neighborhoods that didn’t yet have them. We now have delightful icons, names, and descriptions for the no-longer-forgotten Willow Creek, Oasis Springs, Newcrest, and Windenburg. Ok, feel free to freak out now.

OFF-THE-GRID UPDATES

This one is tricky to list out in a single paragraph with attempted wit, so I’ll just drop this bullet list off right here:

The Off-the-Grid Lot Trait now ties into our new Bill updates, drawing from Water and Power utility. Without excess utility, lots function off-the-grid as they did before. With excess utility, they function more like an on-the-grid lot.

There is a new Off-the-Grid Build category that will allow players to find Off-the-Grid and survival-esque objects.

We've done a pass on candles to ensure they properly work when electricity is out.

Off-the-Grid supported Fridges now have an "Add Ice" interaction that will allow them to keep food preserved—so long as the ice remains!

Sim will now autonomously use stoves and fridges when Off-the-Grid, not just grills.

Harvestables now grant unique buffs when consumed off-the-grid.

Dogs and Toddlers now have a unique interaction to be bathed in Bathtubs even when Off-the-Grid.

Objects can now be cleaned using the "Use Elbow Grease" interaction. Yummy.

Players are able to gather Water utility from fishing spots in base game. With Island Living they can gather from the waterfall. Water can also be gathered from any world with swimmable 'ocean' water. With Seasons, water can be gathered from snow drifts.

Off-the-Grid specific buffs will now take into account motives and Sim traits when determining if a Sim should receive a positive or negative moodlet when living Off-the-Grid.

We've added multiple new recipes that can be cooked while Off-the-Grid given a Sim has the proper cooking skill level. Some recipes require special ingredients like the Boiling Frog Hot Pot—which adds a really neat survival element to off-the-grid gameplay, while providing Sims with powerful new moodlets that will help them survive in the wild.

NO TRESPASSING

Some people who have the Vampires Game Pack appreciate Vlad’s antics more than others. I personally love receiving a charming visit from Vlad, and sometimes I could really use a kind compliment about my neck. But we’ve heard there are a select few that don’t quite like having their Sim’s necks bitten and motives tanked by an invasive nighttime visitor with no respect for boundaries. Keep Vampires and other unwanted visitors at bay with a new No Trespassing interaction we’ve added to the Door.

SEND HOME INTERACTION

Speaking of unwelcome visitors, we’ve also added a new Send Home interaction that’s available on visiting NPCs or as a self-interaction in the case of multiple visitors. How is this interaction any different from Ask To Leave or Go Away, you might ask? Convenience. Unlike its less efficient predecessors, this interaction is nearly instantaneous and leaves your visitors with no hurt feelings or Relationship impact. We added it as a useful tool for players, not necessarily as a story-telling mechanism.

BUILD MODE ITEMS GRANT GAMEPLAY EFFECTS

How you build your lot can now affect your gameplay. Certain objects such as wall patterns, floor patterns, fences, and columns bring different gameplay modifiers. Some of these modifiers affect how your Bills and utilities are calculated by decreasing or increasing your Power or Water utility production or usage, as well increasing or decreasing the price of bills. Environment Score can now be impacted by certain objects and materials. Drywall walls without wall patterns applied now decrease environment score like they did in The Sims 3! The choice of floor and wall materials used can also affect the ability to spread fire or puddles at an increased or lessened rate. And if you’d rather build your lot without having to think about these things, don’t worry. There’s an Option in the Gameplay menu to turn all of this off.

FIREFIGHTER NPC

Oh hey, and speaking of Fire, that reminds me. Did you hear that we’ve added Firefighter NPCs to the game? We took nods from classic Firefighter NPC behavior from The Sims, The Sims 2, and The Sims 3 and added a few small twists for The Sims 4. When a fire breaks out, Firefighters will come automatically to your lot if you already have a Fire Alarm installed. That way, if you still like to let things burn baby burn, you can just “accidentally” forget to place a Fire Alarm. It’s okay. We won’t tell anybody. If you honestly did forget to place a Fire Alarm, you can call the Fire Department from the Phone or by clicking on the fire itself. If the Fire Department is called, but there is not an active fire, they will call you on your lapse in judgement and charge you a fine. You won’t be punished if there was legitimately a fire that was extinguished before they arrive though. The Firefighter Uniform can be accessed in CAS and gives any Sim wearing it the Fireproof Buff, which gives them some extra protection against fires as well as make them more efficient at putting out fires themselves. It’s worth noting that Firefighter NPC’s do not show up in Island Living’s Sulani. Sulani already has their local Fire Brigade to handle these kinds of emergencies and besides, who wants to wear all that heavy Firefighter gear in the tropics?

STYLED LOOKS FOR TOTS AND KIDS

More than 20 New Styled Looks have been added for Children and Toddlers, using existing Base Game CAS assets to better flesh out some outfit categories that previously felt sparse.

BALANCING PASS OF PHONE CALL INVITATIONS

After five years of Expansion Packs, Game Packs, and Stuff Packs our phone call invites were admittedly starting to get a little spammy. Moments after moving in, you’ve got Lucas Munch hitting you up, asking you to go to the Bluffs with him. Then not long after, you might have had Vivian Lewis asking you to join her at The Spice Festival. Jeez, let me get settled in first, why don’t ya? We’ve done a tuning pass to rebalance all of these previously competing Phone invites to give you a more meaningful and holistic experience.

LESS INVASIVE EARBUDS

In the same vein as the above balancing pass, we wanted to smooth out one of our more pressing notifications. The free earbuds pop-up that comes with Fitness Stuff has been changed to a more passive TNS and gifts your Sim the earbuds automatically when it triggers. The days of telling the game over and over that you don’t want free earbuds, or worse - hitting OK by accident - is a thing of the past.

CONSOLE UPDATES

Eco Lifestyle releasing on the same day across all platforms marks an important milestone for The Sims 4 as Simmers get to play the same content and share new creations on The Gallery together. In this update Console Simmers have a few additional features to improve their quality of life:

We have added a new Controls Overlay Reminder that shows up throughout CAS, Gallery, Live Mode and Build Mode which should make it easier for new Simmers to jump in and not need to remember all the controls.

If you don’t want to be reminded and you know all the controls by heart, you can turn off the Controls Overlay Reminder in the Game Options > Other menu

The controller overlay screens remain available for those who want them.

Now onto the fixes and updates:

The Sims 4

macOS players should no longer encounter the setLocale.zsh error. However, both Origin and TS4 must be up to date.

Sims will not have random accessories or clothing pieces when changing into towels.

Style Influencer Sims can now remove trends they have created, with the Reset Trend interaction.

Fixed an issue where Sims were not able to Care for Self after they had been in daycare when they were a Toddler.

Some roofs were updated to remove the appearance of black sides when placed on ceilings.

Active Sims will no longer get a Tense moodlet for lack of exercise when finishing exercising. Do you even push up bro?

Sims will no longer get the Fatigued moodlet immediately after starting a workout. Now, we know that endurance takes time to build, but we decided to give Sims a chance to enjoy their workout before being completely fatigued right away.

Child Sims will now be able to unlock the Video Gaming Skill after they have maxed out their Mental Skill instead of their Motor Skill, which was causing adult skills to reset for Child Sims when they completed aspirations.

Fixed an issue in which some Households did not have their names displayed in Manage Worlds.

Corrected requirements for completing the Great Landscaper task that is part of the Mansion Baron Aspiration.

Fixed an issue in which when utilities are shut off (either because of past due bills or Off-The-Grid) adding objects from Build Mode such as Lamps, would add them turned On.

The Water Pump, Fishing Holes, Romantic Garden’s Whispering Wishing Well, and Get Famous’s Luminary’s Exotic Water Garden now have the Gather Water interaction when the Off-the-Grid Lot Trait is applied.

Fixed an issue in which the Subtle Saucer Light was not being so subtle and made objects added from Build Mode be placed randomly when dragged near it.

Teen Sims will now see the appropriate tooltip when trying to acquire the Fertile Trait from the Rewards Store. No, they are not Robots.

Fixed an issue in which some Roof Eaves were clipping into enclosed blocks.

Fixed an issue in which the Clean Up interaction would drop off the queue if dirty dishes were placed on a counter.

Since we added a new trash bike to Eco Lifestyle, we’ve made the bicycle helmet available for everyone in CAS. Now you can outfit your Sim in a helmet, regardless of owning a pack that includes bikes.

Sims will now not receive occasional text messages asking them for a Date from other Sims that they are not romantically involved with. Because it was aaaakward…

Toddler Sims will not be able to Ask for Mentoring on some in progress mentoring interactions to strangers. Except for “Invite to Bob to Music” because we can dance if we want to, we can leave our friends behind, ‘cause your friends don’t dance and if they don’t dance well... they’re not friends of mine.

Fixed an issue with textures for the tops and landings on some Staircases.

Fixed an issue that did not allow randomizer to work correctly when Male Sims had Makeup on Create a Sim.

Plants can now be placed closer to foundations with moveobjects cheat enabled, as long as most of the plant's footprint is outside of the foundation.

Fixed an issue in which Simoleons were not added to Household Funds when moving and selling furniture.

Fixed an issue in which previewing certain windows on diagonal walls reverted their color back to the default color swatch.

Simmers on macOS Catalina and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 GPU will no longer experience seeing a squared shadow under their Sims.

Fixed an issue with the Wooden Prairie-Style Two-Panel door in which color swatches were not displaying correctly on both sides of the door.

Sims now can dispose of packed lunches that have spoiled. Out, foul food!

Fixed some oddness with disappearing Stairs within enclosed courtyards.

Fixed a Stair issue with Landings not working properly on lots with raised foundations and basements. Sims will no longer walk through walls and things should now look appropriate.

Fixed missing Career Promotion screens for careers in various packs.

Fixed User Interface elements and Icons across multiple packs.

Spandrels can now be properly applied on Fences.

Stairs will now not shrink when increasing Foundation heights.

Get Together

Fixed an issue in which non local Sim Townies would spawn in Windenburg’s Island, now named The Crumbling Isle.

Fixed an issue that caused an error to occur when deleting or editing Clubs.

As much as Windenburgians (Windenburgers? Windenburguese? Windenburglites?) love visitors from other worlds, they have voted them off the Island. Sorry, not sorry!

City Living

Fixed an issue that caused time to be desynchronized at Speed 3. Bending the space time continuum no more!

Vet Clinics can no longer be placed in Penthouses.

Yard Sale customers will no longer wander inside Sims’ houses and interact with their belongings. While prospective buyers are nice to have in any sale, this was just rude, this is NOT a Welcome Wagon.

Cats & Dogs

Game progress will no longer be lost when editing/adding/deleting career outfits in Create a Sim.

Fixed an issue that made Pets’ needs to not be fulfilled if not playing an active household.

Pets’ ehm… poop is now able to be used as plant fertilizer. Happy gardening!

Seasons

Sims can now sell Flowers in stacks from their Inventory.

Sims will now appropriately put their Umbrellas away before performing some interactions. Because WooHoo while having an Umbrella out in the open, seems complicated, we are not judging… but seems complicated.

Fixed an issue that made Simmer created Holidays in the Calendar populate after a season ended.

Father Winter will now be able to remove his beard and change in Create a Sim if he is part of an active Household. But who would dare shave Father Winter’s beard?? Who?!

Get Famous

Fixed the issue with the Actor Career where Sims were unable to complete their gig when they would travel and return home before it was time for the gig.

Island Living

Lotta Cocolatas will now be made with actual Coconuts taken from Sims’ Inventories. What were they made from before? We will never know! Never accept imitation Lotta Cocolatas… never!

Fixed an issue in which some quick meals were requiring a Microwave while being Off-The-Grid when it is not needed. Yogurt needing a microwave? I think not!

Mermaids in Create a Sim will no longer be able to have their Traits randomized. This allows them to keep their Mermaidism, as well as their air of mystery and charm.

Mermaids now will wear appropriate career outfits when going to work. So I can picture this now, Mermaids as Doctors would be a great TV show.

Fixed an issue in which some Island Living Tank Tops were categorized incorrectly in Create a Sim.

Mermaid Children made in Create a Sim will now grow up to be fully-functioning Mer-dults.

The Go To Work button for Odd Jobs has been fixed for Sims on Vacation.

The Eyedropper tool will now work on Stilts instead of only working on the Foundation Trims.

Fixed an issue in which Sims in Off-The-Grid lots were showering constantly. Now they will shower when appropriate. Though, with this heatwave, anything goes in my opinion!

“Dr. Mermaid/Merman, what do you recommend?

“I am prescribing some Vitamin Sea”

Give Russkii more coffee please...

Discover University

Student Sims will not lose their Term Presentations Boards when signing up for another term.

Simmers with Seasons additionally installed: Student Sims will no longer receive Academic Probation if they were on planned Holidays through the Calendar.

Student Sims will no longer be labeled as Graduate after completing the Graduation Ceremony. Congratulations!

Fixed an issue in which homework assignment progression was too slow and timers might have been missing in some instances.

Fixed an issue in which Sims were taking showers fully clothed. As much as the current heat wave is giving us creative ideas to cool off, it would be more efficient to not be fully clothed when showering.

Hair Style ymHair_EP08MensShavedPonytail_Black has been updated for Teens, Adults, and Elders to display all swatches. Similarly yfHair_EP08ShortBobBraid_Black has been fixed to appear as an option for Teens.

Sims that re-enroll in University after graduating or dropping out, can now rejoin their Secret Society. Likewise, if Sims get suspended and re-enrolls their progress will not be lost.

Fixed an issue with the "Gameday Glute Accommodator" chair that occasionally could make Sims invisible if they placed it in their Inventory. We don’t know what other powers the "Gameday Glute Accommodator" may have but invisibility is now not one of them.

Sims in the Law Career can now Attend Depositions from their Computers and Phones. Because you don’t need to break your computer to complete an assignment, that seems impractical.

Vampire Coffins and Sleeping Pods can now count as Beds in University Dorms.

Fixed an issue in which the Write and Publish Research Paper interaction would disappear from the options if it was cancelled midway. I mean, I understand rage quitting something but not to the point of my options to do it disappearing...amirite?

Fixed an issue with yfBody_EP08DressParty_SolidPurple in which pendant necklaces were not able to be seen if this asset was worn by Sims.

Fixed an issue that could make the Soccer interaction Study Plays with drop out from the interaction queue.

Corrected Final Exam Requirements for Elective Courses to say that for studying they need to do so on Computers or Research Machines.

To anyone who may have noticed the tiny head effect in the thumbnails if you wore the Dragon or the Lobster mascot costume without their hats, that issue has been fixed.

Humanoid Robots will no longer be able to have Traits or Aspirations modified in Create a Sim. You are a real Sim to me Robot friend, you are to me.

If a Sim already knows about the Secret Society, is it still a secret? Time will tell.

Outdoor Retreat

Herbalism recipes can now work while Off-The-Grid, however only on Off-The-Grid supported stoves.

Dine Out

Random NPCs will not leave Hamburgers on tables at restaurants anymore. As much as we like to receive free food, we don’t think it is proper to get them randomly from a stranger.

Vampires

Vampire Sims working on the Master Vampire Aspiration will no longer have the task “Survive for an Additional 20 Days as a Vampire” reset after traveling.

Vampire Sims with Full Sun Resistance are now able to properly tend to gardens and not tend to plants one at a time.

Fixed an issue in which you could set the Registered Vampire Lair Lot Trait for Venues.

Vampire child ears can now be changed after being aged-down from adult Dark Form.

The Rustic Candle Chandelier now has flame effects on the candles.

Jungle Adventure

Fans/Stans will no longer follow their adored celebrity into the jungles of Selvadorada.

Realm Of Magic

Spellcasters have regained access to Styled Looks.

Fixed an issue in which a Tank Top belonging to this pack was not categorized correctly in Create a Sim.

Hot Tubs that have been upgraded to unbreakable will no longer be broken upon performing the Zipzap Spell.

A Spellcaster is never not in vogue, but it’s always nice to have options.

Moschino

We fixed an issue in which some hotkeys in Photo Mode (particularly E and Q) were not working.

After popular demand, the Libearian bookend will now cost Simoleons. Nothing’s for free, nothing’s for freeee... take it away!

Tiny Living

Murphy beds will now be more resilient after first use. Warranty terms pending.

Fixed an issue in which Game Consoles were not usable with the all in one entertainment systems.

Fixed an issue in which Hair Styles from this pack appeared with their color swatches out of order in Create a Sim.

Fixed an issue in which Sims could not Put Bed Up their Murphy Beds after WooHoo.

We have also adjusted their pricing and comfort levels, bang for your buck!

Now the “Media Marathoner All on the Wall” will be actually the Media Marathoner All on the Wall.

[ladylynse]

Part 5 [FF | AO3] of Protocol: The world has changed since the Merge. Ghosts-threats-are everywhere, the Guys in White are in control, and trust is a risk when friends can so easily become foes. Dystopian AU (courtesy of competent, world-merging GiW)

Previously:

Red light engulfed Danny, and all Jazz could hear was his scream.

He dropped.

His screams cut off as he crashed into the ground, but they still echoed in her ears.

Jazz couldn’t breathe, but her eyes met Sam’s. Sam’s lip curled before she picked her way across the wreckage. “You broke protocol.” Sam’s voice was cold. Hard. Cruel. “You let that ghost separate us and then you pursued without waiting for backup.” She reached Danny and kicked him in the side, hard. Jazz winced. “Still animate. Come on. Let’s secure it.”

-|-

Fenton made no move to help her haul the ghost from their jet once they reached the base, but Sam wasn’t entirely convinced her sensibilities regarding it hadn’t been compromised. She’d once thought it a brother, after all. The betrayal of what it actually was should cut deep, but perhaps it was hard for Fenton not to see her brother looking out from the ghost’s lying eyes.

The ghost was conscious again, despite its ectoplasm leaking all over the previously-pristine containment cell on their jet. The other members of their team had paused to jeer, but Fenton had dismissed them with a bark, and they’d gone. Phantom had been their capture; no one else would share that glory.

Sam was only letting Fenton share credit because she’d distracted it in that critical moment.

Fenton took down other ghosts readily enough. She didn’t lack skill, not anymore. Sam knew she was still the better shot—she always had been—but Fenton could rival any of the senior staff at this point.

She’d be a good one to train new recruits, if anyone could convince her to step back from the field.

Not that anyone would. She was a Fenton. Her family name was well known now, and not just because of the abomination that had once been her brother.

It made Sam’s insides curdle, thinking that she had once called it a friend.

Thinking that she had helped it.

Repeatedly.

“Make the report,” she told Fenton. “I’ll get the ghost down to processing.”

Fenton met her eyes, knowing exactly what Sam was doing. “Are you sure?” she asked quietly.

“You’re still a good hunter.” Hesitation alone wasn’t enough reason for Sam to stab her in the back and report her. Even with that, Sam trusted Fenton more than she trusted the newer recruits. Someone with a sloppy shot would get her killed, and Fenton wouldn’t let a ghost attack her.

Besides, she was willing to let Fenton fudge the report for something as small as that. She wasn’t willing to swap places and let Fenton take the ghost anywhere while unsupervised, however many cameras were spaced throughout the facility. Getting the ghost to processing wouldn’t take that long, anyway. She’d be back before Fenton finished.

It wasn’t strictly following protocol, of course. They were supposed to make the reports together. But the higher ups would understand. This wasn’t a ghost she was willing to pass off to anyone else. Not before she got it to processing, anyway. She knew better than most how tricky it could be, but they’d be equipped to handle its tricks down there.

“Thank you,” Fenton whispered. Her eyes lingered on the ghost for a few more seconds before she turned her back on it and headed off. That technically meant Sam needed to get someone else to help her get the ghost out of the cell, but it was more for redundancy’s sake than anything else. She was content to have them watch her work.

The Guys in White gadgetry was simple to use. Intuitive. Besides, a good many pieces weren’t unlike the FentonWorks weaponry she’d once used. Considering all the Fentons’ designs had been turned over to the Guys in White, that wasn’t a surprise. After the raids on Vlad’s various secret labs, his technology had been appropriated, too. There were others, of course, but Sam didn’t trust anything that she knew came out of the hands of completely inept ghost hunters.

Just because they’d improved since the Merge, out of necessity if nothing else, it didn’t mean she’d trust their previous so-called research.

The ghost was still twitching from the electricity she’d run through it before opening the cell, but it was a simple thing to snap on the cuffs, attach a lead chain, and drag it to its feet. “You’re coming with me,” she told it as it blinked stupidly at her, sagging against the outside wall of the cell. She pulled, and it stumbled into place alongside her.

“Sam,” it croaked.

Did it think she was still its friend?

Maybe she should let it. The very idea made her nauseous, but if it thought it could trust her? If it thought she was just doing this for show? She’d get a lot more information out of it than if it knew the truth.

Or, rather, accepted the truth.

“Protocol,” she hissed, hoping it would take that to mean she couldn’t talk.

It blinked and nodded, but it had never been one to keep silent for long. It barely waited until they were out of earshot of the other agent before it asked, “Where are we going?”

“Processing.” She knew she should add I’m sorry or some equivalent, just for the show, but she couldn’t force the words past her lips just yet. She glanced pointedly at the cameras instead. It licked its lips and bobbed its head again.

“Do…do I want to know what’s involved in processing?” it ventured after a moment.

No. “Cursory evaluation, subject assignment, security recommendations. For your accommodations.” She put as much of a sneer into the word as she could muster. Let it think she hated that she was doing this. Let it think that she didn’t want to, that circumstances were forcing her to. Let it think her pretense was for a different reason. “It’ll mostly be to check a box than anything else. Your reputation precedes you.”

“Yeah,” it whispered. “I’ve been a target for a while. We all have.”

“You’re a bigger prize than some.”

“Which will make my escape that much more meaningful,” it said. It still spoke quietly, barely moving its lips even when she glanced at it, but it was able to put an impressive amount of force behind the words. It had only slightly turned its face towards her, but it looked…hopeful.

She stamped down on the disgust that rose within her and fought to keep her face and voice smooth. “It would,” she managed, which was as close to agreement as she could get. They weren’t going to just let it escape. None of their specimens escaped. Some had been destroyed, eventually destabilizing and turning into ectoplasm, but this one would be more resilient than that.

“So not right away, huh?”

It did think she was still on its side. Good. She gave her head a minute shake. “Not yet.” Not ever.

“Too risky, I guess.”

Was that a note of fear in its voice, buried beneath bravado and false acceptance?

“I’ll hold on, I promise. No matter what they do to me.”

They. How foolish it was, not to sort her in with the others, if only out of a sense of self-preservation. She could have told it that it was better to assume the worst and be wrong than to assume the best and be wrong.

It would learn soon enough.

Sam stopped in front of the elevator. “Processing is in the first level of the basement,” she told it as the elevator dinged and the doors slid open.

It followed her inside—it had to, as she still had it on a short leash—and waited until the doors had shut again before saying, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry I couldn’t save you. When they attacked. I…I tried, but….”

“It’s okay.” When she thought back on it, the attack hadn’t come soon enough. She’d done so much for the rebels. Too much.

“Have you seen Tucker?”

Tucker. She still wasn’t sure if he’d come around to the right side, but after she’d come here, she’d sent word to have one of the other tech guys screen his communications. No guarantee, of course, if Tucker’s skills were better than whoever was trying to hack him, but Tucker was valuable, and she didn’t want him taken for questioning unnecessarily. If they hadn’t captured this ghost, she might worry more, but since they had? Tucker’s hands would be tied even if he did still want to help the rebels. The abomination would have been one of his last consistent points of outside communication, and without a leader, a face, a symbol, something to rally around, the rebels would crumble sooner rather than later anyway.

“Field agents don’t associate with the techies.”

It lapsed into silence, finally, as they arrived at the floor for processing.

Sam nodded to the agent at the end of the hall as they exited the elevator. “This is where I leave you. With Agent N.” Processing was contained, every square inch coated in phase proof finish or built from treated material. It wouldn’t be able to escape, even if Agent N displayed uncharacteristic incompetence. “I need to get back to Fenton. Jazz,” she amended too late, seeing the look that crossed its face.

“Right,” it breathed. “I…. I’ll see you soon, I hope?”

“I don’t know,” she said. Let him think they still kept her schedule in the dark, even though she wasn’t among the newest recruits. It was still looking at her, so she twisted her mouth into a smile. The best she could manage, anyway. “Sorry.” The word felt wrong. “Um…good luck.”

It snorted. “Thanks, Sam, but luck isn’t going to get me out of this.”

No, it wouldn’t, but luckily, she didn’t need to come up with a response because Agent N was in earshot. Not looking at the ghost beside her, she said to her colleague, “This is our latest acquisition.”

Agent N grinned at her and took the proffered lead. “We caught it at last.”

“We did,” she whispered, feeling its eyes burning into her. She stood her ground as Agent N took it in for processing. When it looked back at her, something inside her twisted, and she turned away.

(see more fics | next)

[waiterdinner08]

Painters Dublin And Decorators Based In Dublin

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Content

Commercial Painting Contractors Dublin | Industrial Painting Contractors Dublin | Lally Decorators

Lally Decorators

Commercial & Industrial Painting Contractors Dublin

Commercial Painters & Decorators Dublin

Commercial Painting Contractors Dublin | Industrial Painting Contractors Dublin | Lally Decorators

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[the-magnificent-hacker-ns]

Tricky how is your sanity hanging on?

Very slightly. Just like how I'm very slightly hanging over the edge of a building to hide from a hero.

[fleshpurifies]

THE BIG BLEACH HC MEME centering around politics, repost & fill out! For anyone who wanted to explore those aspects more, considering it played a big role in the story. Some things may be unknown to your Muse, just think in WHAT IF then & well, have fun and take your time!

BASICS

Name:   Unohana   / / /    Age:  3000+   / / /      Gender:   nonbinary woman Race:   Shinigami / Quincy / Hollow / Fullbringer / Visored / Human / Other Currently lives:   Soul Society / Hueco Mundo / Silbern / Living World / Hell Exact Location:  Seireitei Group(s):  Gotei 13, Squad 4, Squad 11 (formerly)

QUESTIONS

- Would your muse consider themselves more: GOOD / BAD / NEUTRAL ? - Would your muse consider their group more: GOOD / BAD / NEUTRAL ? - How does your muse think others see them: GOOD / EVIL / NEUTRAL ? - How does your muse think others see their race: GOOD / EVIL / NEUTRAL ? - How does your muse think others see their group: GOOD / EVIL / NEUTRAL ?

- Is your muse considered a threat: YES / NO ?   By whom?:  Central 46 , to the Soul Society governed by laws and ideals of justice , to any living creature in any and all realms on an instinctual level - Is your muse powerful: YES / NO ?  Could they be considered OP:  YES / NO ? (probably... but i love op women so keep them coming) - Did your muse commit any crimes: YES / NO ? (sweaty emoji) - Does your muse think they are doing mostly the right thing: YES / NO ? - Would society think the same: YES / NO / MIXED OPINIONS ? Does your muse think they are treated unfairly: YES / NO ? - Does your muse feel understood from others: YES / NO ? - Is it important for them what others think of them as a person: YES / NO ? - Would they welcome death:  YES / NO ? - Will they ever find peace:  YES / NO ? 

01.0.  Do they fully stand behind the group they are part of? YES / NO. Why is that? Explain: As one of the founding members of the Gotei Thirteen, Unohana’s loyalty to Yamamoto and resolve to uphold the governing laws have never once wavered.

02.0.  Do they like as things are in Soul Society? YES / NO. 02.1.  Is there anything they would change? Explain here: It’s not until she becomes ‘Retsu’ Unohana, that she truly begins to understand feelings like empathy and compassion, even if feigned at first to fulfill the role she’s taken. While she feels sympathy for those souls subjected to living in Rukongai in poverty, and genuinely wants the legislature of Central 46 to improve the quality of life for the poor outside of Seireitei’s walls, her sense of duty to the Yamamoto and the Gotei, as well as her own responsibility in regards to her personal ‘sin’ outweighs much else. She is capable of recognizing the nuance of morality to some extent, especially as Retsu, she firmly distinguishes right from wrong (her compliance with Rukia’s execution for example, despite recognising it was objectively too severe a punishment), but this code will in most cases come second to upholding Soul Society’s ideals.

- (this next area is tricky because I stand by the fact that there is a LOT of conflict with the image of ‘The Self’ that exists within Unohana, and as such, she falls into the category of both traits in a lot of these- bold is the more dominant of the two, italicized is secondary)

03.0. Would they ever actively try to bring change (in general)? YES / NO. 03.1. Is your muse more: passive / active ?  Introverted / Extroverted ? 03.2. Does your muse care more about: others / themselves ? 03.3. Do they trouble their mind over a lot of problems, others? YES / NO. 03.4. Do they mostly involve: the world / everyone / themselves / comrades / friends / family / elderly / kids / teenagers / home / workplace / strangers / souls / humans / quincy / shinigami / nobles / fullbringer / visored / hollows / espada / arrancar / former bosses / pets / animals / zanpakuto spirit / enemies / partner / lovers / soul king / god / other…(add more) 03.5. Name (up to) three which are the most on their mind (optional, adding names): - Kenpachi Zaraki. The burden of guilt weighing heavy on her shoulders, the promise of the heights he could rise to, should she raise him properly. - Isane Kotetsu. Her tender-hearted, earnest ally in everything; who she trusts to keep her greatest secrets (her greatest shame), the person with whom she entrusts her zanpakuto, who runs to her side when the nightmares are too vivid, who will proudly stand alongside her, and honor her legacy as Retsu. - Genryuusai Shigekuni Yamamoto. When monsters still roamed the realms and the balance of souls was in chaos, her strength was once sought out by one such demon in exchange for endless enemies to fight and cut down for him. She has never looked back. - Shutara Senjumaru. They once knew each other when they were nothing more than The Kenpachi and a noblewoman. Feelings, relationships, names, social standing, roles, identity— if everything about a person is subject to change, what is left remaining? Still, the threads connect; pulling, stretching, but never breaking.

04.0. Do they think frequently about politics? YES / NO / SOMETIMES. Why is that? Explain: Her position as a long-standing Captain and founding member of the Gotei Thirteen itself is highly politicized. As stated above, Unohana has a strong sense of objective “right and wrong”, but this always comes second to her duty to Soul Society. Specifically following Aizen’s betrayal given her direct role in partial discovery of his scheme, she gives deeper thinking to the flaws within the Central 46 governing system.

05.0. How do they feel in their current location, more: POSITIVE / NEGATIVE / NEUTRAL ? 05.1. Why is that?: Positive is in response to her death, and Kenpachi absolving her of her sins and guilt over being unable to bestow him her title years earlier. Neutral & Positive also both correlate to her standing and service as the 4th Division Captain, as well as the post-canon AU I’ve given her.

06.0. Does your muse have any goal: YES / NO ?  BIG / SMALL ? 06.1. Does it involve anything world-changing: YES / NO ? (technically ig??) 06.2. If goal or not, any future plans? Share here:  To raise the next Kenpachi and correct her mistake. Though perhaps in itself a small goal, the ramifications on the world are large, and it is a largely character-defining goal for her.

07.0. Does your muse know about the original sin of soul society*: YES / NO / MAYBE ? * curious? Read about it here. 07.1. If they knew, would it change their views on Soul Society: YES / NO ? 07.2. More: POSITIVE / NEGATIVE / NEUTRAL ?

08.0. Who is the worst person in their eyes?: Yhwach , Aizen 08.1. What should happen to them? Execution (quick / slow death) / Imprisonment / Stripped of their powers / Torture / Repay for their sins / Pay a Fine / Social Work / lose their loved ones / Exile / other… (add more). 08.2. Explanation:  I feel like they’re both fairly self explanatory, though extra points to Yhwach for killing Yamamoto because she is Not A Fan

09.0. Thoughts on the Quincy Massacre if they knew: POSITIVE / NEGATIVE / NEUTRAL ? 09.1. Would they be alright with such thing happening again: YES / NO / INDIFFERENT ? 09.2. Would they try to prevent it: YES / NO / DEPENDS ? 09.3. Explanation:  They were a threat to Soul Society and the balance of souls between the realms, one that was eliminated in response to a rebellion they themselves started. Perhaps if circumstances were different (such as, the Mod Soul dump/genocide, where they were innocent), there wouldn’t have been a need for such bloodshed. But as always, everything is done in the name of preserving the balance of souls, regardless of the cost.

10.0. Would they ever switch sides: YES / NO ? 10.1. If yes, What could bring them to do so?:  N/A 10.2. Would they create a new one: YES / NO ?  or join a current one? If so, which:  In my post-canon AU, she “retires” to Rukongai and lives as an herbalist before being recruited by Yoruichi Shihoin to teach at the Shin’o Academy. So in that sense, she joins a current subset of the Soul Society faction with which she was aligned.

11.0. Does your muse follow a certain moral code*?:  YES / NO / GRAY AREA ? (UH... LOL) * (ethics) A written, formal, and consistent set of rules prescribing righteous behavior, accepted by a person or by a group of people. 11.1. What does it involve?: The laws and governing laid out by Central 46, though this is secondary to Yamamoto’s commands. The latter is especially important, given that Yamamoto’s own laws changed drastically over time. 11.2. What does it NOT involve?: This one is subject to the changes laid out above; torture, murder, violence, whatever earns you the title of The Most Bloodthirsty and Violent Criminal In Soul Society’s History.

YOUR MUSE’S VIEWS / OPINIONS ON THESE GROUPS ?

Central 46:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because: they govern the Soul Society, but she follows primarily Yamamoto’s command.

Four Great Noble Clans:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because: She herself has no divisive opinion on the Nobility beyond her disapproval that certain members can buy their way into a high rank within the Gotei. Those positions ought to be earned by strength and skill, not monetary means. That said, due to the Nobility having extensive influence within Soul Society, Unohana has personally served as the attending physician to such distinguished houses, most notably the Kuchiki Household (with regards to Ginrei, Sojun, and Hisana).

Royal Guards / Gotei 13:   positive / negative / neutral .   ━   because: She literally helped to create the Gotei 13, so there is a certain amount of pride in that fact.

Fullbringer:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  Other than the actions and fate of one Ginjou Kuugo, she has no true opinion on Fullbringers existing as their own “spiritual race”. 

Visored:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  Not positive in the sense that she is perfectly fine with their circumstances, however she explicitly refers to them as her “comrades”, which is an especially interesting note given how other Gotei officers and Captains reacted with suspicion or out right disgust. Unohana has been known to heal enemy and ally alike, however, and likely viewed them as such given their shared history as Gotei officers, as well as already having proven themselves to align their interest with those of Soul Society.

Espada:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  As far as fighting beneath Aizen’s command, she disapproves. However, given the post-HM attempt at establishing relations between Hueco Mundo’s de facto ruler and Soul Society, there is a begrudging neutrality between their worlds for the time being. That said, Unohana was not opposed to healing Gantenbainne Mosqueda after arriving in Hueco Mundo, suggesting that she views Arrancar in general with as much autonomy as Humans and Shinigami.

Quincy:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  Her prejudice against Quincies comes chiefly from their practice of eliminating souls vs cleansing them, creating an imbalance between the worlds, as well as Yhwach during the original Blood War. Prior to the TYBW, she was fairly neutral, if not perhaps somewhat pitying over their race for having stood and fallen against Soul Society. But she’s a firm believer that the Quincy genocide was a result of their own hubris; angels with wings of wax, etc etc. That said, she gets absolutely zero direct interaction with any Quincies during the TYBW, and I personally think that despite her stronger opinions, she’d be inclined to heal the likes of Bazz-B, Giselle, and Liltotto because they defected from the Wandenreich. It’s a whole nuanced thing.

YOUR MUSE’S VIEWS / OPINIONS ON THESE (IMPORTANT) PEOPLE ?

Aizen:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  Treacherous reprobate, etc etc. All the obvious reasons. I don’t think she’d disapprove of Shunsui’s decision to free him though, only because drastic times call for drastic measures. If that weren’t the case, surely she wouldn’t have been pushed to finally teach Kenpachi Zaraki the Art of Killing.

Yhwach:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  Other than the obvious stuff, him cutting down Yamamoto was something she reacted to negatively and viscerally so.

Mayuri:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  His personality is infuriating, but she does find it hilarious to push his buttons and prod at his ego. She doesn’t agree with some of his crueler methods, but she really doesn’t have room to talk and in the end, it’s for the sake of the Soul Society.

Kurosaki:   positive / negative / neutral.   ━   because:  INCREDIBLE, INSPIRING, SHOW-STOPPING, BRILLIANT. Really fond of the kid, really worried for the kid. She kind of wants to fight him.

Soul King:   positive / negative / neutral. ━   because:  While his origins are dubious and objectively horrific,  his presence is necessary for the sake of the greater world.

CONGRATS, you managed till to the end, now tag your fellow bleach partners!

TAGGED BY: genuinely cant remember. it was prob either tom or hela TAGGING: anyone who hasn’t done this yet, feel free 2 steal!

[drivelings]

227.

Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.

With the creation of omnics and 'artificial intelligence', many scientists patted themselves on the back, believing themselves to be at the pinnacle of scientific history. Of course, their technology eventually turned on them and the rest of the world, dragging these scientists down from their self-important pedestals and into the depths of condemnation. Their contribution and names sat in limbo, vilified by humans and revered by omnics and omnic-sympathizers.  

--

"It's...like a different version of my dad's hard light tech." Lúcio's voice came out in a shaky whisper, a mix between reverent and disbelieving.

Hanzo bristled. How dare--

"The Shimada dragons are nothing like your <i>technology</i>," Hanzo declared loudly.

"Then what are they?"

Magic; an ancient pact; divinity; a power beyond human understanding. No matter what he said, it would only sound ridiculous to an outsider.

Hanzo gnashed his teeth and clenched his fists. His answer was unsatsifactory even to himself, but he had no choice other than to say, "A family secret."

--

「The writer, Arthur B. Clarke, had said, "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."」

You took a slow drag from your pipe, eyes downcast as though lost in thought.

「In the past, the dragons were considered 'magic' because the technology surrounding is not known. I believe humanity's technical knowledge is reaching the point where it can unravel the mystery of the dragons.」

「How is that possible? The days of the dragons did not have computers or electricity or--」

「It doesn't mean that electricity didn't exist or that there was no way to manipulate this...'hard light technology' as you call it.」

--

「It is a family secret,」 you said simply. 「We cannot reveal it even to the Shimada clan members themselves.」

Pausing for a moment, your expression became whimsical.「But I suppose times change. You are the second to ask.」

Hanzo's spine straightened, a premonition of dread choking him, daring him to ask.

「...who was the first?」

You smiled mysteriously, relighting your pipe. 「Who knows.」

--

「Do you remember the process?」

Hanzo remembered bits and pieces of it. It took place over the course of six months; once every two weeks. On the day of the every session, he would be up before the sun rose and cleanse himself in ice cold water. He would be escorted to your family's estate in an unmarked car and get trasferred to another one, taking several detours to throw off anyone on his tail and preserve the secracy of your family's location.

Every session, he would be given a simple meal and escorted underground to a cavern covered in crystals and stone that would never pass any sanitation inspection expected of a modern-day tattoo parlor.

Then, nothing.

He doesn't know what it is, but every time, he would fall unconscious before you began tattooing him. He never spoke of the experience to anyone, sworn to the family's level of secrecy, and having never thought anything unusual of it. But hearing of the tattoo experiences of various people in Overwatch, doubt began to creep into his heart. Something was different. And maybe something was wrong.

You spoke quietly and slowly, careful with your words. 「Embedded in your skin are...strips of circuitry. It is connected to your spinal cord.」 You tapped the back of your neck with your pipe. 「My family are not tattoo artists. That is merely a cover. We are surgeons who knew the importance of the nervous system even before the translations by Sugita Genpaku.」

「You could say it is similar to Vishkar's hard-light technology, but different.」

「How is that even possible?」

Human dissection was outlawed up until the late 1700′s in Japan, several years before the completed translation of the Kaitai Shinsho. The legends of the Shimada dragons predated that time period. The reality of something much more horrifying lay beneath the surface of his family history, and it’s not something that he was ready to face.*

「Manipulating and laying down metal has been a tradition as old as civilization.」 You stood up and walked over to a plain, but well-crafted wooden cabinet. A series of motions made a hidden drawer pop open and from it, you produced some oddly colored filaments.

「These wires and the like are embedded into your skin in specific patterns similar to modern-day circuit boards, covered by the ink of an actual tattoo. The dragons are nothing more than a 'hard-light' projection of these.」

「Do you ever wonder why you are so tired after you 'summon' the dragons? Do you ever wonder why you have to sleep or eat immediately after using them? Do you ever wonder why your motor skills are compromised for a time afterward? Or why you have to have an extensive medical exam four times a year?」

「They take energy directly from you. Activating the dragons can short-circit your heart. It could kill you. That's why you were trained from a young age to overcome human limitations and to strengthen your body. Being an assassin is just a cover to justify your training.」

---

"Genji. I need to talk to you."

--

His brother did not seem as concerned as Hanzo was when he was delivered this 'truth'. In fact, Genji looked bored and Hanzo has to resist the urge to slap his upside the head.

"Is that it, brother?"

Hanzo was taken aback and snarls. "'Is that it'? This is our history, Genji! Tarnished by technology! We are not blessed by dragons, we are puppets who were played as fools! What was our sacrifices for? Our history? Our legacies?"

"And you didn't know this already?"

Hanzo opened his mouth, another tirade at the ready. But seeing Genji's face--utterly indifferent--he stopped. It dawned upon Hanzo that he may have been the last to know. But then...

"...did you know about this?" he asked weakly, slowly sinking back down into seiza position.

Genji shrugged a shoulder, his expression becoming a little more sympathetic. "I knew. When Blackwatch was rebuilding me"--Hanzo flinched--"they found out and told me. They were going to study it, but they'd have to rip everything out of me. And I needed the dragon to complete my revenge, so that secret is still safe."

---

*more Japanese historical...racism/classism/etc this way comes. Basically, human dissection isn’t allowed according to Confucianism which was imported from China when Japan was still under their influence. This means to Hanzo that the reader’s family was doing it way before it was acceptable (1750′s). There’s only one group of people who were allowed to do this sort of thing before then: burakumin who are...basically outcasts of society and the lowest of the low in Japan’s caste system. It’s a really tricky topic and you can kinda equate it to the “untouchables”, but in short: Hanzo’s prestigious family was being surgically experimented on and given power by a family whose class status is lower than dirt.

in a way this would also be denying the fact that yakuza was largely made up of these burakumin. Maybe in 2050′s or whatever, that history would have been glossed over, but at the rate things are going IRL, i doubt it

---

YEAH BUT WHAT IF.

[impalementation]

conversations with dead people is such a great episode. i used to think it was overrated, but i rewatched it recently and it really isn’t. it takes its core idea of “aloneness” and then nuances it with the experiences of the different characters. leaving you with this rich, complicated sense of how people end up isolated from each other in different ways.

*

1. in buffy’s case, her aloneness is a matter of disconnection. as she discusses with holden, she is isolated by a calling that (a) means she has more power than her friends, which puts her in the position of leading, protecting and sometimes even punishing them, and (b) means she experiences things that no one else in her life can relate to. moreover, the pain and disappointment she’s experienced at the hands of other people has made her hesitant to reach out and connect. 

the episode literalizes the way being a slayer isolates her in some pretty clever ways. she’s out in a graveyard alone solely because she’s there to slay. and she loses track of her phone because she’s fighting. then the fact that she can barely remember holden is a reminder of the way that slaying has been keeping her apart from people for years. holden: “clearly, you were in your own little world in high school.” then, even after she and holden do build something of a connection (buffy: “you’re not a stranger”), she still ends up having to kill him. and is left with possibility that spike is now someone she’ll have to kill too. in other words, slaying puts her in the position of having to literally destroy her personal connections.

the buffy scenes capture the way it can be hard to tell whether your aloneness is because of who you are, or because of what your circumstances are, or something else entirely. the way it can be hard to tell how much of some situation is your “fault”. does buffy need to get better at “reaching out” or is she doomed no matter what simply because she’s the slayer? or is it neither? or is it both? it’s a relatable kind of confusion whether or not one is isolated by a circumstance as extraordinary as buffy’s.

2. in dawn’s case, aloneness is actually something sort of exciting. in seasons 5 and 6, dawn regularly played the role of the damsel. she was someone buffy had to care for and protect, and this meant that she was almost never left by herself. so the fact that dawn is at home alone is a sign that she’s grown up.

i see dawn’s scenes as being about her ambivalence regarding this increasing adulthood. she begins the episode reveling in her aloneness, in a charming but nonetheless juvenile way. but slowly her aloneness becomes more sinister. she is haunted (literally) by her mother’s presence, much as anyone is haunted (figuratively) by the way they were raised. she has to work by herself to figure out what’s happening, and thinks she is even in the position of needing to help or protect her mother in some way. in other words, dawn is forced to confront the idea that “being alone” in an adult sense actually means “having sole responsibility for something” and “going without parental guidance” and things like that. which is actually quite scary. 

the twist of the dawn bits is that although over the course of the episode, dawn learns that she can handle things by herself, the first was also attempting to manipulate her to take that too far. just as dawn discovers she can be independent in a positive sense, the first attempts to convince her that she must be independent, in a negative sense, because her sister will not be looking out for her. the sequence does a great job of capturing the difference between the healthy kinds of aloneness that come with growing up (which can be both fun and scary), and the more insidious idea that self-reliance requires isolation.

3. the willow scenes are tricky. one the one hand, willow’s aloneness is a matter of concrete loss. she is romantically alone because tara is dead, not because she has difficulty “connecting”.

but that loss is wrapped up a bigger problem, which is that willow has often had trouble understanding her value to people. she’s always acted vaguely (or not-so-vaguely) surprised that people want her in their lives. it’s a trait that goes back as early as welcome to the hellmouth, when she was surprised that buffy would befriend her, and continues as late as this season, when she’s surprised that kennedy pursues her. to deal with this insecurity, she tries to be useful, to make her value concrete. in season 6, she regularly frames her abuses of magic as being about helping people or fixing something, and she is adrift after giving it up. in two to go, she despairs that the only thing she was “ever good for” was tara’s love, and is only brought back from the brink in grave by xander reminding her that he loves her for herself. in other words, much of willow’s season 6 destructiveness sprang from her belief that she had nothing to offer the world and the world had nothing to offer her, because her only connection that wasn’t oriented around her usefulness or skill…was tara. it made sense to me that despite the fact that buffy and willow love each other, buffy was completely unable to talk willow down during the dark willow arc, because so much of buffy and willow’s relationship has to do with willow helping her with slaying.

so the first’s manipulation of willow is two-fold. firstly, it reminds her of what she’s lost. it tempts her with the connection that made her feel that she truly mattered. it tempts her with the thing that was once more important to her than the entire world (perhaps even more important to her than tara herself, given that willow once freely violated tara in order to preserve the feeling of being loved). it then attacks willow’s sense of usefulness by emphasizing that she’s a killer, and telling her that she’ll hurt people. basically, it tries to replicate her season 6 mindset by making her think that she has no way to be worthwhile or not-alone except through her relationship with tara. it tries to make her see having love, having friends, and having power as fundamentally irreconcilable things.

in other words, willow’s scenes are about the way that one can isolate oneself by (a) hiding within the feeling of being loved, (b) yearning for things that no longer exist, and (c) thinking of oneself as fundamentally unloveable or relationships as a matter of “worth”.

4. in andrew’s case, the tragedy is that he wants the love and respect of someone who doesn’t really exist more than the life of someone who does. he feels left alone by warren’s death (andrew: “you keep leaving me. i hate it when you leave me.”), but ends up actually alone. in jonathan’s case, the tragedy is that he is alone, but doesn’t know it. jonathan thinks that he and andrew are friends, and that they’re seeking atonement and belonging (jonathan: “do you think they’ll really let us join their gang?”). but in reality, andrew’s secret agenda is keeping them isolated from each other, and from the connections that atonement might bring them. the first-as-warren is the most obvious “dead person” that someone in the jonathan/andrew scenes is having a conversation with, but by the end of the episode we realize that in some sense jonathan was too. to andrew, he may have been dead long before the episode even began.

the trio has always existed to play with ideas of fantasy and delusion, and that continues in these scenes. andrew is deluded about warren’s motivations and reinforces jonathan’s fantasy about joining buffy’s gang, etc. they speak constantly in their usual exaggerated language about redemption, and being “outlaws with hearts of gold” and what have you. the difference between jonathan and andrew is that jonathan actually wants to escape the cycle. there’s a sad push-and-pull between fantasy and reality in the final conversation between the two of them. jonathan is truly sincere in his desire to connect with the people that ca. earshot, he once felt so apart from. he wants to know their reality, whether or not they ever wanted to know his. but andrew dismisses this as deluded and naive. the sad part is that for once, the fantastical nature of jonathan’s optimism throughout the episode was actually maybe a good thing. but andrew was so tempted by his own fantasy, an even more ephemeral connection, that he could not, or could not let himself, recognize this.

so both andrew and jonathan are alone either because they’re willfully not living in reality, or because they’re not simply not aware of what the reality of a situation is in the first place.

*

there’s a lot more you could analyze about all of these scenes, but i’ll leave it at that. i’ve come to think of conversations with dead people as something like the dead things or once more with feeling of season 7. in that it’s one of the few episodes of a season with big ambitions but confused execution, that actually addresses all of the season’s themes with the complexity and skill they deserved.