#answers will come in-between various assembly steps

[queenlua]

drinking & assembling furniture while listening to this podcast about how this one megachurch imploded big-time

the drinking & the podcast are great but BY GOD do i hate assembling furniture

AMA?

[ha-rinrin]

First I want to say that I really love and enjoy your writing and take all the time you need :)

Second I would like to request a jinx x artist reader who likes to sketch her a little too much (not a weird way just like just the reader do absentmindedly)

Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m sorry it took me this long to fulfill your request, but I finally finished it, so here it is 🤍 Also, guys, I’m sorry for disappearing for so long. I’ve had a lot on my plate, but I’ll try to post more often like before 😔

masterlist

Sketching Jinx

The workshop was dimly lit, a safe haven for Jinx’s chaotic energy. You sat cross-legged on the couch, sketchbook balanced on your knee, pencil in hand. Jinx was deep in her element, hunched over her workbench littered with wires, gears, and various mechanical parts. She was busy assembling a new invention, her tongue poking out slightly from the corner of her mouth in concentration.

You watched her—loose strands of blue hair escaping her braids, the way she pounded a hammer against a stubborn piece of metal. She didn’t notice you drawing her, and you preferred it that way. You liked capturing these candid moments of Jinx—her in-between states, before the chaos took over.

With each movement, she seemed more alive to you—vibrant, unpredictable, like a force of nature. You captured every detail: the smudges of oil on her fingers, the way she occasionally glanced up at the ceiling, clearly lost in thought. Your pencil moved smoothly across the paper, sketching her unfiltered essence.

“You drawing me again?”

You nodded, barely looking up from your work. “Yeah,” you answered, your voice soft but certain.

Jinx let out a small laugh, shaking her head as she continued to tinker. “It’s the third time today I catch you sketching me,” she commented, not bothering to hide her amusement. “And you don’t even let me see them.”

A playful smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you glanced up at her. “Guess I like keeping my favorite sketches a secret,” you teased.

Jinx paused, a smirk playing on her lips as she turned to face you, crossing her arms. “So now I’m your favorite thing to sketch, huh?” she echoed, raising an eyebrow. “Guess that means I’m doing something right.”

You chuckled softly, meeting her playful gaze. “Maybe,” you teased back, a hint of mischief in your voice.

Jinx stood up and stepped closer, clearly intent on convincing you to show her the drawings. “Come on, let me see them,” she insisted. “I’m your favorite subject, remember?”

You pretended to think about it, giving her a sly smile. “Hmm, I don’t know…” you teased, shaking your head. “What if I don’t want to share?”

Jinx’s smirk widened, and she reached out to tickle you gently on the side. “Come on, just one peek?” she urged, her voice a playful mix of frustration and laughter.

You held firm, shaking your head. “Nope, not showing them.”

Jinx’s expression shifted as she suddenly lifted you up from the couch and wrapped you in a tight hug, pulling you close against her while you return the hug, your sketchbook left on the couch. “Come on, just one little peek,” she whispered, her lips brushing against your ear.

You resisted, a smile tugging at your lips. “Not a chance,” you teased.

Jinx let out a soft huff and started planting kisses all over your face—on your cheeks, your nose, your forehead. “How many kisses do I need to give you until you show them to me?” she asked, her voice playful and warm.

You couldn’t help but laugh. “A lot,” you replied, trying to keep your composure.

Jinx’s smirk softened into a smile, and she began to kiss your cheeks more insistently, each one lingering longer than the last. “How about now?” she murmured against your skin, her breath warm.

You held out, a defiant sparkle in your eye. “Still not showing,” you teased back.

Jinx’s playful grin returned as she started to tickle you, fingers dancing over your sides. “How about now?” she repeated, her kisses turning into playful bites on your cheeks.

You laughed uncontrollably, trying to squirm away. “Okay, okay, you win!” you finally surrendered, grabbing the sketchbook from the couch and giving it to her. “But you owe me big time for this.”

Jinx’s eyes lit up with triumph, and she pulled the sketchbook from your hands, giving you one last peck on the lips before stepping back to examine your drawings. “Totally worth it,” she said with a satisfied grin, flipping through the pages. “These are amazing, you know that?”

Jinx flipped through the pages, her expression shifting from playful amusement to genuine amazement. She stopped on a page and held it out for you to see. “Did you… did you draw me while I was sleeping?” she asked, her voice a mix of surprise and wonder.

You peered over her shoulder at the sketch—Jinx, head resting on her arms, a soft smile on her lips as she slept peacefully amidst her mechanical work. The moment had been so fleeting, so candid, that you hadn’t even realized you’d captured it.

You nodded, a soft smile playing on your lips. “Yeah, you looked so peaceful,” you admitted softly. “Couldn’t resist.”

Jinx’s eyes softened as she studied the sketch. “This is… wow,” she breathed, running her fingers over the paper gently. “I didn’t even know you were watching.”

You shrugged, feeling a little bashful under her gaze. “I like capturing moments like these. They’re the real you, without all the chaos,” you explained, your voice low and sincere.

Jinx’s expression turned tender, and she stepped closer, placing the sketchbook back to you. “You really see me, don’t you?” she murmured, her voice barely a whisper. “Not just the crazy, but all of it—the quiet moments, too.”

You met her gaze, nodding. “Yeah, I do,” you replied softly. “That’s what makes you so… special to me.”

A smile tugged at the corners of Jinx’s lips, and she leaned in, brushing a loose strand of hair from your forehead. “Guess I’m glad you didn’t hide this one,” she said, her voice affectionate.

You shrugged, feeling a warmth spread through you. “Maybe I’m starting to trust you with these,” you admitted, your heart pounding a little faster than usual.

Jinx’s smile widened, and she leaned in even closer, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. “Good,” she murmured against your skin. “I want to see more of them.”

You smiled back at Jinx, your heart swelling with affection. “I guess you’re worth the trust,” you replied softly, leaning into her embrace.

Jinx’s expression softened, and she pulled you into a warm, gentle hug. “I’m glad,” she whispered, her voice full of sincerity. “Because these moments, they mean everything to me.”

You snuggled into her embrace, feeling content and happy. “You’re my favorite thing to sketch,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. “But maybe now… I’m starting to like sharing them with you.”

Jinx squeezed you tighter, pressing her lips to the top of your head. “Good,” she murmured again, her voice thick with emotion. “I want to be a part of all your moments, even the quiet ones.”

With Jinx’s arms around you and the warmth of her embrace, everything felt just right. You knew that no matter what happened next, you’d always have these sweet, quiet moments with her to hold onto. And that was enough to make you happy, for now and forever.

[kayawolfhorse]

Towards the Sun | Read on AO3

My part of @thedoomedpie and I’s Solstice Social collab, hosted by @hermitadaymay! Check out Pie’s lovely piece here <3

—☾—

The sky is an endless swath of bright blue above Pearl’s head, and the birds chirp their early song from the bough of every tree around her. At her hip, her almost empty mailbag rustles with every step. She adjusts the brim of her hat against the morning sun and strides towards her next stop.

Tango answers the door in a robe with pools at his feet with a mug of steaming coffee and eyes that brighten when he catches sight of Pearl. “Pearlie! Got my morning mail?”

“I sure do!” Pearl says, and hands him the couple of envelopes with his name scrawled across their fronts. “How’s your weekend off been treating you?”

“It’s been weird,” Tango chuckles. “Nice! But weird. Case in point, when’s the last time I had my mail delivered?”

“Hah, yeah, it was weird seeing it in the office,” Pearl says, and leans against the porch balustrade. “It’s good to see you getting some rest, though! You needed it.”

“Thank you, thank you,” Tango says with a slight, goofy bow. “You’re due for some time off, too. Relax! You deserve it.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Pearl smiles. “For today though, I’ve got errands to run!”

“Festival organizing, is it? Wouldn’t expect you to be anywhere else,” Tango teases. “Can’t wait!”

“I was just about to ask if I’d be seeing you there!” Pearl says. “There are a few things to be done beforehand, but it’s all coming together beautifully.”

“Wouldn’t miss it! I—” Tango’s interrupted by a rapid series of familiar, high-pitched beeps.

Pearl spots him first. “Hi there little buddy!” She crouches down to meet Grumbot at face-level. “What’s up?”

Grumbot whirs, and the foliage that cascades down the side of his boxy head shakes slightly as a piece of paper slides from the output slot on his torso. He pulls it loose with one doodle-speckled arm and holds it up to Pearl, who takes it and scans it over.

“Mumbo needs help, does he?” she asks. Grumbot extends his hand in what Pearl recognizes to be as close to a thumbs-up as he can get with his lack of fingers, and the motion is equally as endearing as when Mumbo himself flashes one in awkward acknowledgment.

“With the lights?” Tango reads over Pearl’s shoulder. “I can go over and give him a hand.”

“No worries; I’m overseeing the lights, anyway. Besides,” Pearl says, giving Tango a playful poke, “one of us is supposed to be resting.”

“Alright, alright,” Tango concedes. “I’ll get you to take a break one of these days, mark my words.”

“Consider them marked,” Pearl says, and rises to her feet. “Bye, Tango!”

As Pearl turns to follow Grumbot, Tango says, voice fading behind them, “Say hi to Mumbo for me!”

“Will do!” Pearl calls over her shoulder.

—☾—

“You’d really think that hovering lights would be more willing to, you know, hover,” Mumbo says.

Sunlight pours from high-cut windows above the row of cabinets and catches against the glass of the unlit heaps of lanterns scattered around the workshop in various stages of assembly. Redstone wires are piled in the free space left between the lights, and spare circuits weigh down the edges of sprawling blueprints across the benches that line the wall.

Pearl pulls up a stool at Mumbo’s side, where he’s hunched over the central table, turning a bulb between his hands. His suit jacket has been abandoned on a nearby table, and his dress sleeves are shoved back to his elbows. “They’ll get there, I’m sure of it,” she says. “Have you got any clue why they aren’t working?”

“That’s the thing—I have none at all! None!” Mumbo says. He presses a hand to his temple. “There’s nothing obviously wrong with them, they just won’t work.”

“Is it all of them?” Pearl asks, pulling the bulb’s sleek white casing closer to inspect.

“All of them, yep,” Mumbo confirms. “They’re completely unresponsive.”

“Odd.” Flipping the casing upside-down, Pearl slides a nail along the cover until it pops open. The compacted redstone as its core is a beauty, and she takes a moment to admire it. “Grumbot, could you hand me that screwdriver?

Grumbot’s rapid cacophony of dings sounds near-anxious in pitch. Pearl frowns—he’s never been anything but utterly at home in Mumbo’s workshop.

Nonetheless, Grumbot retrieves the screwdriver and holds it out to Pearl from as far away as he can stay. As soon as Pearl takes it and thanks him, he races off to the other side of the room once more, sitting in a sunbeam in the clearest corner of the shop.

“That’s weird,” Mumbo says. “That behavior’s weird, right? He never does that.”

“It is,” Pearl agrees.

“I’ll go ask him,” Mumbo says, and rises from his seat.

Glancing back down, Pearl focuses on the redstone before her, taking it apart piece-by-piece and laying it upon the table. The craftsmanship is perfect; each mechanism primed, every wire lovingly crossed, devoid of misplaced or faulty fires. There’s no reason for it not to work. It doesn’t make sense.

Mumbo’s stool scrapes against the wooden floor as he pulls it back and drops heavily onto it. His brow is knitted and his mustache is ruffled in puzzled confusion.

“What did Grumbot say?” Pearl prompts.

With a slight shake of his head, Mumbo says, “Couldn’t get an answer out of him. He just kept repeating that the redstone was bad.”

Pearl rubs a wire between her fingers. She’s having trouble thinking of a solution, her mind sparking like flint and steel that refuses to take. Her head pangs in a dull ache just in general, honestly—did she have any water before heading out?

Redstone, much like just about anything else, wears out eventually, and brings with it a habit of corroding its surroundings if left to rot for too long (she and Mumbo had learned this the hard way, what with their shared hobby of flipping old tech), but the lanterns’ redstone shows no sign of attrition.

“We could… replace it?” Pearl hedges.

Mumbo looks as uncertain as she feels. “This shouldn’t be all that old,” he says, “I got a new shulker-worth of it a few months ago; it’s been sitting in a chest since.”

“Might as well give it a shot, right?” Pearl says. “We’ve got nothing else to go off of.”

“I guess so.”

Their efforts are to no avail; the lantern remains decidedly dark and firmly grounded.

“It was working yesterday afternoon,” Mumbo says, passing a hand across his face, “I don’t get how it’s just stopped now.”

Pearl scratches at the back of her neck and tilts her head—a poor choice; the movement sends the dizziness behind her eyes spiraling, and she takes a moment to breathe through it. For all that she loves a good puzzle, frustration bubbles at the back of her throat. The redstone should be fine; Mumbo’s worked on it for weeks and his design is meticulous. Of course it’d be now, mere hours before the festival, that a bug would rear its ugly head.

“How complicated would it be to switch it over to solar?” Pearl asks. Whatever’s wrong with the redstone, they can figure out later. She has a schedule to keep, and it cannot be eaten up by stubborn lights.

“Not terribly difficult,” Mumbo says, “but I don’t actually have any panels small enough for them on me, and they won’t last as long, and they’re supposed to be on at night.”

“If you can get panels in the next hour and charge them while you assemble, they’ll have a few hours’ worth of juice in them, which is all we need,” Pearl says. “Redstone’s not giving. We need the lanterns faster than we can fix whatever’s wrong with them.”

“Okay,” Mumbo says. “Yeah, you’re right. Thanks for the help.”

“Sorry I couldn’t do more,” Pearl says sincerely. “I��ll get those panels to you, how’s that?”

“Oh, that’d be wonderful, actually,” Mumbo says. “Thanks, Pearl!”

Pearl’s about to respond when her communicator buzzes in her pocket. Pulling it out, she reads: there’s been a situation.

Sighing, she says to Mumbo, “Change of plans; looks like I’m needed elsewhere, unfortunately.” For what exactly, she’s not sure. Leave it to Grian to provide no further specifications.

“That’s okay!” Mumbo says. “All good, no worries. I’ll get it handled.”

“You’re just the man for the job, mate,” Pearl says, patting him on the shoulder before adjusting her bag’s strap. “Call Etho if you need an extra set of hands—Tango’s supposed to be resting.”

“Ah, I did hear about that, yep,” Mumbo says. “You’ve got it! Good luck with the preparations!”

Pearl flashes a salute before stepping outside. Before the door can fully close behind her, Grumbot zips through it and wraps an arm around her leg.

“You want to come with?” Pearl asks.

Grumbot gives a furious nod and a wiggle of his mustache.

“I’m heading for the labs, you know,” Pearl says.

Grumbot’s aversion towards them is as stalwart as the rise and set of the sun; he refuses to step foot on the grounds. Though Pearl expects him to back out, Grumbot nods his head again.

“Alright,” Pearl says skeptically. “Maybe between you and I, we can drag Grian out for some fresh air, aye?”

—☾—

Mumbo’s workshop is closer to the fields than it is the center square, and though the walk is lovely, the spring day pleasantly balmy, Pearl keeps her pace at a fast clip. The excited bustle of festival preparations amidst the mundanities of everyday life streams past her as she stops by the post office to drop off her mailbag and marches towards the laboratory at the heart of Solaris.

The streets narrow and quiet down as she and Grumbot continue on past rows of shops closed for the day and markets whose early hours have long passed. A light breeze plays with the ends of Pearl’s hair and Grumbot hums something Pearl recognizes to be one of her own silly little tunes; after a beat she joins in. Despite the mission at hand, it’s all rather peaceful—a tranquility that is completely shattered by the swarm of bees that seems to materialize directly in front of them, swiftly followed by a familiar dash of pink and blue.

“Lizzie!” Pearl calls out. “What’re you up to, mate?”

With a bouquet of overflowing flowers in one hand and a net in the other, Lizzie turns to Pearl. “The bees!” she exclaims, slightly out of breath.

“What about them?” Pearl asks, tilting her head. “They’re allowed to roam, aren’t they?”

“Joel broke their hive by mistake whilst trying to move them,” Lizzie explains. Her fuzzy wings flutter behind her. “We’re trying to get them back into a new one before they take off for somewhere else entirely. And they don’t want to blumming listen!”

“I can’t imagine bees are known for their listening skills,” Pearl agrees. “Are you trying to lure them back home?” Lizzie’s flower shop is nearby, but her and Joel’s house is a few blocks away.

“Joel’s getting the new hive now,” Lizzie says. “I’m just rounding them up for when he gets here with it.”

“Grumbot here and I can help!” Pearl offers. She can’t just leave Lizzie with all of this. She prays that it won’t take terribly long. “Isn’t that right?”

Grumbot makes a sound that approximates agreement. There’s already a bee perched upon one of his flowers.

“Great!” Lizzie says. She halves her bundle of flowers and passes them to Pearl. “Here, take these. Try to get them to stay around the shop. I’ll head down Main.”

“You’ve got it!” Pearl says. Lizzie flashes a relieved smile and runs off.

Left to her own devices, Pearl’s immediately struck by how difficult of a task it is to get the bees to remain anywhere specific.

Petunias tangle with ivy down the side of nearly every building down the street, and nasturtiums sprout around each lamp out front. Sculpted topiaries, colorful flower beds, and communal gardens fill every bit of space not occupied by paths.

Pearl has always taken pride in the lush beauty of their little town, and so close to the festival, it’s dialed up to a hundred: flower wreaths and garlands are hung by the bushel. The bees—several hundred of them, by the looks of it—seem determined to visit every last petal.

“Here, buzzy buzzy bees,” Pearl coaxes, holding out a fistful of lilacs to the group in front of the bakery. Somewhere behind her, Grumbot imitates the bees in a whirring hum. “C’mon, that’s it…”

After Pearl leads her first group to the flower shop and watches as they cluster contently on the stand of bouquets by the door, she stations Grumbot next to it to gently discourage anyone from wandering too far. He waves his bundle of flowers invitingly to any bee that leaves the stand, beeping to alert Pearl if one slips past him.

Pearl oscillates between grabbing the furthest bees’ attention and slowly luring them closer to the shop. Though most of them hover within reach, a few have drifted further up into rooftop gardens or flower boxes beneath second story windows, and Pearl resolves to locate a ladder as soon as she can. The emptiness of the path is a relief—Pearl can’t imagine the difficulty passerby would add to bee-wrangling.

By the time Joel arrives, fresh hive in hand, Pearl’s gotten most of the bees in the same general area, darting across the flower shop’s front, perched upon her own bunch of flowers, or flying lazy circles around her face.

“It should be all set up now,” Joel says, setting the hive carefully down on one of the nearby tables. Two bees fly right in, and after a moment, several dozen under the storefront window leave their bouquets to follow. “And hi, Pearl. Thanks for the hand.” Pearl waves.

Lizzie reppears with a mini-swarm of the most adventurous of stragglers, and her bees hover cautiously around the hive for a moment until joining the ones inside. “Thank goodness,” she says. “Do you have Queenie?”

“She’s in there, yep,” Joel says proudly. “There’s also the couple of frames I managed to save.”

“Nice!” Pearl says, and gently shakes her bundle of flowers over the open top to encourage her bees loose.

“We’ll just have to get them close enough that they go in,” Joel says. “They’re smart enough; they’ll follow their queen.”

Grumbot appears at Joel’s hip with clasped hands and several murmuring beeps. His extended arms just barely reach the top of the hive, and when he opens his hands, a single bee flies out and into the hive below. Pearl laughs softly and Lizzie grins; even Joel can’t help but look charmed.

“Thank you, Grumbot,” Lizzie says with all the seriousness of ceremony. Grumbot wiggles his mustache, pleased.

Between the four of them and the ladder Joel runs back home to retrieve, they gather up the last of the bees and give the street one final sweep before sliding the hive’s cover on. Joel hefts it up with a grunt, and says his goodbyes before disappearing around the block.

“Thanks for the help, guys!” Lizzie says. “I was real worried there; it’s a good thing you came along.”

“Of course!” Pearl says. “I couldn’t just leave a gal hanging, now could I?”

Lizzie’s expression turns contemplative, and she mutters something that Pearl can’t quite catch before saying, “Oh! Have you picked out your flowers yet? For your crown?”

Her flower crown! Pearl lightly smacks the heel of her hand against her brow. “I’d totally forgotten, to be honest. I’ve been so busy with everything else, it’d just slipped my mind.”

“Well, come by the shop anytime today, and they’re on the house,” Lizzie says. “As payment.”

Though no payment is needed, it’s useless to argue; Lizzie’s made-up mind is a firm thing, and besides—Pearl really does need a crown. “Thank you so much, Lizzie!”

“It’s the least I could do,” Lizzie says with a grin. “See you later?”

“You betcha.” Pearl winks.

Continuing down the freshly bee-less street, Pearl spares the clock on its end a glance and makes a mental note to swing by the flower shop once the plaza’s fully set up. Early afternoon has already managed to sink its unerring roots into the day, and there’s still so much left on Pearl’s checklist. Total perfection may not be the name of the game, but she’s determined to land as close to it as possible.

She’s so occupied with running through the list in her head—meet with Scar and Bdubs, consolidate decorations, run home and change, eat at some point, that’s probably important—that she nearly runs straight into Gem and Impulse.

Gem halts the wagon behind her before it can crash into Pearl. “Hey, Pearl!” she says. Impulse waves from his spot further back.

Pearl shakes herself free from her ruminations. “Hiya, guys!” Grumbot beeps in greeting.

“Whatcha you up to?” Gem asks. She loosely crosses her arms and leans against the wooden paneling of the wagon, and it jostles gently against her weight. Its underside casts soft golden light upon the cobbled street it hovers above.

“Heading to the labs,” Pearl answers. “You two are catering, I’d assume?”

“Not quite yet,” Gem says, “but we will be in an hour. For now, we’re just helping move stuff around.”

“Fantastic,” Pearl says. “Quick question, is your wagon working as normal?”

Gem and Impulse turn to it in unison.

“Chugging along as always,” Impulse says, and raises his eyebrow with a faint, confused smirk. “Why, what’s up?”

“Just checking,” Pearl says. She sounds a little frazzled to her own ears, to be honest. If Mumbo’s redstone problem was town-wide, she’d certainly know about it by now—she’s not sure what she was expecting, really.

“O-oookay,” Gem says, squinting. “You’ve got leaves in your hair, by the way.”

“How did that—? Ah, oh well. My accessories.” Pearl waves a vague hand. “I’d love to stay and chat, but I’ve really got to get going. Bye!”

“You’re being so suspicious!” Gem exclaims, laughing slightly.

“All part of my charm!” Pearl says. She starts to walk away before sharply changing her mind; turning back, she asks, “Actually, can Grumbot hang out with you two?” At Grumbot’s protest, she reminds him, “The labs.”

“Yeah, sure,” Gem says, and smiles at Grumbot. “This does not make you any less weird, though.”

“Does anything?” Pearl leans down to give Grumbot’s head a pat, and after returning the gesture to her arm, he plods off to Impulse. “See you all later!”

Gem snorts. Impulse’s directions and Grumbot’s responding beeps fade behind Pearl as she thrusts ahead.

—☾—

The polished floors of the laboratory's foyer catch and reflect the daylight from where it filters through the glass dome high above Pearl’s head. Carefully maintained potted yucca and pitcher pods frame either side of the reception desk, bringing with them splashes of life in the otherwise still space.

She’s been here often enough to remember the crack in one of the mud bricks above the maintenance closet, and the receptionist’s nod is familiar as they wave Pearl through. Sweeping past the main doors, she raps against the second door to the left in a cursory knock before pushing it open.

It takes her eyes a moment to adjust to the sudden dimness. When her vision clears, she regards the mess around her—just as disorganized as she’d last seen it, despite Grian’s promise to declutter—with a long-suffering sigh.

“Yeah, yeah, I had other things to do,” Grian comes around one of the tables saying. His coat is, for once, fully buttoned, however rumpled it is, though his red sweater peeks out at the collar.

“I can’t believe you,” Pearl says. “We talk about this every ti—”

“Not this time, I’m afraid,” Grian interrupts. He has the good grace to look apologetic when Pearl glares. “Listen, I brought you here for a reason.”

“Coulda used it upfront, really,” Pearl mutters. Grian shrugs.

“There was a minor sculk—not even a flare; it’s not big enough to be a flare—incident this morning, at Vintage Beef’s,” Grian says. “Before it opened. Beef had noticed a small spread following his pre-hour duties.”

Pearl can’t quite stop the small gasp that escapes her, and her heartbeat picks up in her ears. “Is anyone hurt?” Infected, she doesn’t say.

“No.” Grian shakes his head. “It was fresh enough that Beef didn’t suffer more than a nasty headache, and he avoided contact.”

“That’s good,” Pearl says, a little distantly. There have been instances of sculk sightings within town before, but they usually crop up on the outskirts, closer to the ruins; the butcher’s is so central. “Has the sculk been fully cleared?”

“That’s the thing—we’ve been developing this, this new agent, and it worked like a charm. It kills the sculk without aggravating it; all that’s needed afterwards is some good ol’ elbow grease. Pearl,” he says incredulously, “it didn’t spread.”

��Really? Gri, that’s amazing!” Pearl exclaims. “What about the surfaces it was on? How did they fare?”

Grian pulls a face and tilts his outstretched palm. “It was in the press, really messed up the redstone. Had to be replaced. The wall behind it is being replaced, just to be safe,” he says. “But, I nabbed a piece before they could stop me.”

“You and rules never have gotten along,” Pearl agrees. “Did you test it?”

“Of course I did.” Grian grins. “There was the tiniest sliver of residue, but it’s completely inactive after being sprayed. A few minor tweaks to a formula and bam, it’ll be as if it was never there in the first place.”

“Wow,” Pearl says, at a loss for anything else. As a child, she’d had a game, a simple manner of gathering points before the bad guy caught up. It’d been found on a scavenge, and cleaned up the best they could, but sculk remnants clung to the wiring—a fact discovered hours later. Pearl had been bedridden for weeks.

The scavenges eventually tapered to an end, after the town had grown enough to completely sustain itself. Years later, Pearl had rebuilt the game with Mumbo, and it’s sat in her bedroom since.

Wait. “You said the sculk affected the redstone?” Pearl asks.

“Yeah, the press wasn’t working, which is what led Beef to prying it open and finding the sculk,” Grian says. “It was an old machine; sculk likes the static of old redstone.”

Dread rekindles anew in Pearl’s gut. Each detail that fell askanse in the moment feels all too clear now. “I don’t think,” she says slowly, “that Beef’s case is the only bit of sculk in town.”

Grian’s gaze steels. “Explain.”

Pearl goes over her time with Mumbo earlier, describing the deadbeat redstone, her own nausea, and Grumbot’s apprehension. “I suggested switching to solar, for the time being,” she finishes. “Haven’t heard from him since.”

Grian’s taken to pacing while she talks. Pearl absently gathers papers scattered on the table into a neat stack.

Abruptly, Grian stops. He pulls out his communicator. “We need to get him out of there, now,” he says. “We’re lucky that the lanterns aren’t connected to the grid—the sculk shouldn’t spread as easily, but Mumbo’s gotta get away from it.”

“What can I do?” Pearl asks. With one final, decisive tap, she sets the papers aside. She feels steadier with a task in hand.

“Change your clothes, for one thing,” Grian says. “If you’re contaminated…”

“I’m not,” Pearl says quickly. “I shouldn’t be. It didn’t touch my clothing. My symptoms faded in fresh air.”

“Okay. Then just, keep on at the festival.”

Pearl smiles something wry. “I’m keeping my ‘sole townie with super secret information’ status, now am I?”

“You’re Pearl; it hardly counts.” Grian waves a hand, but meets her eyes in understanding. “Just for tonight, you are. There’ll be an announcement tomorrow morning. It’ll be good to keep spirits high.”

“Okay,” Pearl says. “You’ll be alright?”

“Nothing new with me.” He shrugs. “No breakthroughs, but I’m still here, that counts for something.”

Pearl knows of his frustration. Years spent researching sculk, only for the city he was studying in to collapse in a full-blown flare. Grian had stumbled half-alive into town.

He should’ve died from the infection. He’s the only known survivor. It creeps along his edges, unyielding, aching, preying on a body that refuses to give out.

She’s glad he’s here.

Laying a light hand on his clothed arm, she asks, “Any chance I’ll be seeing you at the festival?”

Grian hesitates. “I’ll try,” he decides after a moment. “It’d be a real shame to pass up on free dessert, anyway.”

“I’ll save you a cupcake,” Pearl says. Her mouth pinches at the corners.

“I knew I could count on you.”

—☾—

The fireworks show is as dazzling as Cub had promised it would be. Circles of gold and showers of blue burst to life high above the plaza and cast sparkling reflections down upon the copper railings. The crowd, adorned with enough flowers in their crowns and chains to be mistaken for a field of them, claps and cheers in jubilant appreciation.

Mumbo’s lanterns float gently through the air, beacons of warm, softly flickering light. There aren’t as many as there were in the workshop—reduced from contamination or lack of time, Pearl doesn’t know. Mumbo’s own absence, however much she expected it, is an anxious ache in her chest. He isn’t the only one missing.

After the fireworks, the music stirs up a jaunty tune, and the centermost ring fills with movement: heels clatter against the cobbled brick as dancers spin between partners and link arms with a new one before being cast back.

Pearl doesn’t join so much as she is roped into the fray, and despite herself, she stomps to the beat and laughs at the joke Ren makes before flinging himself towards False.

Finding Gem is a manner of trading arms and conversation until they’re drawn together. Gem looks lovely with her sprigs of lilacs tucked behind her ears and woven throughout her antlers, and her silver bracelets are a pretty contrast against Pearl’s own gold. The purple of Gem’s long, sweeping skirt brings out the white of her wide grin.

“I love the sunflowers,” she says as they whirl. “They suit you.”

“Not looking too bad yourself!” Pearl says with a grin of her own.

“Skizz helped me with the antlers,” Gem says, gesturing to her head. “He got there eventually, but it was a rough start.”

It’s easy to lose herself in banter with Gem. They swap stories of loose bees and fishing mishaps and debate which of their friends would attempt to arm wrestle one of the harvest bots. They hang onto each other for several songs and part with a shared giggle.

When the soles of Pearl’s flats feel practically worn through, she takes to wandering through the fringes, ducking beneath the pergola for a drink that she quickly abandons to help someone with their unraveling flower crown. She scans the gathering as she deftly reweaves the delicate stems; her search comes up empty. Handing the finished crown back, she sticks around for a few moments longer before plunging back in.

She mingles and she dances and she resolutely ignores any feelings that ooze from the darkest parts of her brain like the stuff of world-ending apocalypses.

They’re here, aren’t they? From the rubble they created a safe haven, survival stalwart enough to warrant a celebration in its name. The strung lights are bright and the flowers are in full bloom; the air is fresh in Pearl’s lungs and she’s certain that any one of the pastries laid out would be delicious if she could will her stomach to accept it.

Time has dilated to something beyond Pearl’s open-handed grasp. Exhaustion tugs at her core. Zedaph is describing his most recent contraption to her, and only half of it is really computing.

She doesn’t notice Tango until he’s right next to her, two cupcakes in hand. His robe has been forsaken for a dashing waistcoat combination, and his bright hair is artfully tousled. He hands one cupcake to Pearl and the other to Zedaph, engaging Zed in an animated conversation that effectively drives them both away from Pearl.

Tango tosses a wink over his shoulder and mouths, ‘break.’ Pearl sighs with a slight shake of her head, and flashes a grateful smile back.

The crowd has thinned, and congregated mostly towards the center of the plaza, leaving many of the benches that curve around its edges empty. Pearl takes a seat on the side of the terrace that best overlooks the town below and rubs a sore spot out of her calf.

Away from the main lights, the stars shine brilliantly overhead, and the moon’s nearly-full glow settles silver upon the expanse of colorful roofs and overflowing greenery in front of her. Amidst the gentle hum of the night and melody of the Festival of Life, Pearl traces the watercolor silhouettes that make up her home.

—☾—

In the last dregs of celebration, when the band is replaced by jukeboxes, after most have retired to bed, Grian appears by Pearl’s bench, sliding into the spot next to her. Wordlessly, she hands him the cupcake from Tango. Through the weariness that weighs down his frame, he grins.

There’s plenty of discussion to make. Pearl’s sure there will be a never-ending stream of it tomorrow.

Pearl soaks in the quiet company and takes a moment to breathe. After a moment, Grian releases a long exhale of his own. Side by side, they sit in silence.

[xo-hugs-n-kisses-ox]

Rumination

Ruminate

(v.) to think about [something] deeply

After Edward left her, Bella Swan fell apart. Desperate to try and save his eldest daughter, Charlie brings his youngest daughter to Forks to see if she can bring her sister out of her depression.

Now, y/n must try to help her sister find her way back to the light while also trying to navigate her Junior year of high school in the odd town of Forks.

Chapter Five: Protection

Now Playing: 15 Step by Radiohead

Warnings: cursing, Paul being an asshole, Paul being a bit controlling, uhhh I think that’s it

When I woke up, I got dressed quickly and ate a quick breakfast. Bella and I would be taking separate trips to Emily’s house; I would go alone with Sam and Paul trailing my truck, and Bella would go with Jacob.

Never had I ever been more thankful for spring break.

I turn onto the road to the Reservation, a thud coming from the back of my truck. In a panic, I look up at the rearview mirror, only to see Sam and Paul laying low and furry in the bed of my truck. I sigh, relief spreading through my chest.

I glance back at them again, and Paul’s laughing at my reaction. I flip him off, and he only laughs more.

---

Sam and Paul stick around the house, and I busy myself by helping Emily start lunch for everyone. The two of us work as an assembly line for sandwiches, and when Bella and Jacob get here with the others, I hand out platters of food to each of them.

As everyone is eating, I start asking my questions from last night and this morning.

“So, my first question is if there’s any way that we can disguise mine and Bella’s scent, since that’s how Laurent found us.” I said, adding, “Like, maybe we could hide some of our clothes around the town to misdirect her, and hide some stuff from each of you around the town and our house too?”

Sam considered it as the rest ate, nodding slowly, “It might work. Wouldn’t hurt to try it, at the very least.”

I nodded, “Also, what’s the difference from then versus now? Like, all of you are a lot taller and stuff, and your physiology has changed, but is there anything else?”

“My sight’s better than anyone else’s,” Jared offered in between bites of food, “And we can all generally see, hear, and smell things better.”

“It’s how we know where the vampire’s been,” Paul clarified, fending off his last sandwich from Embry with an elbow to his chest.

“That sounds like an adjustment,” I mutter, then ask, “Does it hurt when you change?”

Again, Paul answered me, “Does the first time, you get used to it after a while. Kinda like popping joints.”

I nod, taking a bite of my sandwich and thinking.

“Can you still eat chocolate?”

There’s a prolonged pause, and Embry looks distraught.

“I haven’t eaten it since I turned…” he said slowly, and the others think with various expressions of confusion and concentration.

“I’m assuming yes, since I’ve seen Paul, Jared, and Sam tear up a triple chocolate pie at Roy’s.” I inform them all, and there’s various expression of relief on each of their faces.

“Any other questions?” Jacob asks, and I shake my head.

“Not that I can think of right now.” I answer, and he nods.

I eat the rest of my fries, but not the other half of my second sandwich. I open my mouth to offer it to anyone who wants it, but before I can speak, Paul grabs it and dumps the rest of his fries onto my plate as compensation. I smile, eating the rest of the fries as he takes large bites of the rest of my sandwich.

---

Emily sets Bella and I up in the spare room, and I shower and go to bed early.

When I wake up, I slowly make my way out of the room and into the kitchen where Emily is already up and making breakfast.

I glance over at the living room and see Jacob crammed into a chair, asleep. Paul has taken a monopoly over the fold out couch-bed, his calves hanging off the bottom and his wide shoulders taking up most of the space as he presses his face into a pillow. I assume Jared, Sam, and Embry are out patrolling.

“Morning,” I say softly, rubbing my eyes as I make my way to stand beside Emily. She smiles at me, greeting me back.

“I see that Jacob wasn’t exaggerating when he said you and your sister had bedhead,” she teases, and I laugh a bit.

“Yeah, we get it from Renee, our Mom. I move around a lot, but Bella’s restless and kicks.” I say, adding, “Can I help you with anything?”

“Sure,” Emily agrees, “Do you want to make the bacon and sausage, or eggs and toast?”

“Bacon and sausage is good,” I say, trading places with her at the stove so she can mix together the eggs, milk, pepper, and salt.

It takes a while to make everything, since we have to make enough food for five boys with black hole stomachs and ourselves, but we get it done easily enough. Emily and I talk quietly as we make the food, listening to the radio.

When I’m done with the bacon and sausage, I plate them and add eggs as Emily finished with them. As soon as the toast pops, I put it on the plate also, setting everything down on the table as we wait.

“If you want to get Bella, I’ll wake up the boys.” Emily suggests, and I nod. I go get my sister and bring her out to the kitchen, sitting her down beside Jacob as I take my seat across from her, beside Paul.

---

The rest of the day passed relatively easily. Sam, Emily, Jacob, Bella, and I sat around the fire pit as Sam told stories.

I was starting to nod off after a while, the warmth of the fire and the chill in the air making me tired. I was about to drift off when something sat down beside me, and I rested my head against it.

When I felt fur against my cheek, I peeled my eyes open enough to see who it was. When I saw dark silver fur, I knew it was Paul. I closed my eyes again, settling more against his side.

---

School had started again, much to my displeasure. One of the only good things about it, though, was that Jacob and Paul would pick us up from the school and we would drive in Bella’s truck to Emily’s house.

Charlie was just grateful that Bella was back to normal now, and let us hang out with our friends as much as we wanted.

Bella would play games or watch TV with whichever of the boys was at the house, and I would help Emily make dinner or clean up after the very messy teenage boys that came and went from her home.

---

There was a new boy in my class, he had moved from one of the neighboring towns. I had been tasked with helping him around the school

The boy, Max, was nice enough. He was charming and friendly, and he was eager to help with any homework, so I valued his friendship.

Some people seemed less inclined to accept him.

Bella was afraid that he would be caught in the middle of our mess with Victoria, and Paul just didn’t like the kid.

At the end of the day, I was talking with Max at the side of the school. He was asking about a due date, and I was trying to explain it when I heard footsteps behind me.

Paul came up beside me, his heavy hand resting lightly on my shoulder.

“Y/n, we need to go soon.” He said as I turned to look at him, and I watched his gaze flick to Max coldly, “You’ll have to catch up with your friend later, you and I have stuff to do.”

“I know, I know, I’m coming,” I agreed, turning back to Max, “I’ll explain it tomorrow, okay?”

He opened his mouth to say something, but Paul had already slipped his hand into mine to pull me away. When he opened the door to the truck for me, he flicked his gaze back towards Max. I didn’t catch the odd look Jacob had given him, nor did I catch the look he had pinned to me.

---

The next day, Max cornered me at lunch.

“Who was that guy yesterday?” He asked casually, “He looked like, twenty five.”

I laughed, “That’s Paul, and he’s the same age as us, Max. He’s just tall, it makes him look imposing and older.”

Max shrugged, and didn’t say anything else about it for the rest of the day.

---

“I don’t like that kid.” Paul said, sitting on my bed as I applied moisturizer to my face. I rolled my eyes.

“Not this again,” I muttered, “Why not? He’s a only good friend, Paul.”

“Does he know that?” He muttered, and I turned to look at him.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I asked, my brows drawn together as I frown at him.

“Nothing, Y/n.” He grumbled, “Nothing at all.”

“Don’t get pissy with me because you think he’s in love with me or something, Paul. He’s a friend only.”

I sighed, “Besides, I don’t really care to go on dates when Bella and I are being hunted by some psycho killer vampire.”

“All I’m saying is, Y/n, don’t be surprised when he tries his luck with you.” He said, laying back onto my pillows, “And don’t be upset when I beat his ass for it.”

I roll my eyes, snapping back with, “Well than, you don’t be surprised when you’re wrong. I know it’s not something you’re particularly used to, oh all-knowing Paul, but it can happen from time to time.”

He rolls his eyes at me, huffing.

---

“I don’t think that your friend likes me much,” Max said, glancing behind me at where Jacob and Paul stood waiting with Bella.

I sigh, “That’s just his face, sorry.”

“I’m not so sure, Y/n,” he said slowly, “It’s not his face when he looks at you, or at that other kid, or your sister.”

“Yeah, but it’s his face towards anyone but us.” I say, not so keen to be having this conversation, “Anyway, I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

“Okay,” Max sighs, watching as I turn and go back to Bella’s truck.

Paul puts a hefty arm around my shoulders when I get close enough, pulling me into a hug and smooshing my face against his chest. I laugh, trying to push away from him as Jake chuckles.

We go back to Emily’s, and I work on homework as she prepares dinner.

After everyone eats, we all go to the backyard. Jacob and Paul and fending off their leftovers from Embry, who’s in wolf form. In an attempt to keep him from getting to Jacob and the leftover food, Paul grabs Embry around the middle and hefts him up into his arms and tosses him away.

It’s obvious that it takes effort for him to do that, but the sheer fact that Paul could is astounding.

---

A few days pass, and Paul’s dislike of Max only seems to grow.

After a while, I notice that Sam and the others are giving him odd, knowing looks. In return, he gives them all vicious glares. I try not to pay much mind to their odd behavior, but it’s slowly gnawing at the back of my mind.

---

“I don’t want you hanging out with that kid anymore, Y/n,” Paul says as I drive us to the Rez.

“What?” I ask, baffled, “Look, I know you don’t like him, but—”

He rolls his eyes, “Y/n, there’s no buts about it. I’m supposed to protect you, and I’m doing that by telling you to stay away from him.”

“Jake has no problem with him!” I scoff, “You’re the only one who doesn’t like him!”

“Jake’s too busy fawning over your sister to care about that kid—”

“His name is Max.” I tell him sharply, “And he’s my friend, so I’d like if you used his name.”

Paul turns his face away from me, scoffing.

The rest of the night is quiet between the two of us.

---

“Are you kidding me, Paul?” I demand, storming into my room and seeing him already there, sitting in my desk chair.

“What?” He asks defensively, and I glare at him.

“What do you mean, ‘what’!” I shout, pushing an accusatory finger into his chest, “Look, I know you don’t like Max, but you can’t try and scare off my friends!”

He arches a brow, “How do you know I did anything?”

“Because he said he saw a big ass wolf stalking around his house!” I exclaimed, “You can’t—”

Paul rolls his eyes, “I’m looking out for you, Y/n, and I’m trying to save your little friend from being caught in the crossfire of Victoria hunting you and Bella.“

“No,” I counter, “You’re trying to get rid of him because you don’t like him!”

He shrugs, “It’s a bonus, sure—”

I scoff, “You pretend you’re all high and mighty, doing things for me, but you’re only being a selfish asshole!”

He stands, his imposing figure seeming to tower over me.

“I’m trying to make sure he doesn’t get killed because you want to bring human boys into our world, Y/n.” He says, his eyes glinting and his face pinched in anger, “Unless you’re the selfish one and want to get Max killed because you were lonely.”

Before I can stop myself, I push him and storm out of the room.

“Get out of my house!” I shout, stomping down the stairs. “You’re such an asshole, I don’t know how anyone puts up with your piss-poor attitude! I’m not surprised that the only people who can deal with you are the pack!”

“Yeah?” He asks, “Well you’re no picnic either, Y/n, you know that? Maybe it’s no wonder why the only people who’re friends with you are the ones who have to protect you.”

By now, Jacob and Bella have come into the room.

“Hey, now, none of that—” Jacob starts, and I shoot a vicious glare at him.

“Butt out, Jacob, this doesn’t concern you.” Paul snarls, his eyes still fixed on me.

“You think you’re big and bad, don’t you?” I demand, “Run back to Sam like the bitch you are, and butt out of my life if you’re so unhappy being in it!”

“Maybe I will,” He spits, “It’s better than having to babysit you all day!”

I scoff, storming out the back door. I stop over to my tiny garden, sitting down to aggressively pull weeds before I hear the door slam as Jacob and Paul leave.

---

Days pass without Paul speaking or even really looking at me. I’m still pissed at him. My words were harsh, but so were his.

Max knows something’s wrong, but I snap at him anytime he mentions it.

Bella’s mad at Paul too, but she seemed to give up on it pretty quickly.

I can’t deal with his moody silences or flip-flopping moods, so I’ve started to just stay away. Now, I’m either at school or I’m at work, and if it’s neither of those, I’m at home.

---

(Edited 1/4/25)

Sooo what do we think so far ??

Trying to incorporate a little more of Paul being an asshole, **but I changed it a bit because I didn’t like how I wrote it the first time.

Anyway, I’m curious to see what you think is the root of his asshole-ness now so lmk if you feel so inclined 😋

Also the next chapter will be dedicated like exclusively to reader interacting with Paul and them butting heads + Quil turning into a werewolf and all that jazz so stay tuned for when I drop that some time in the afternoon 😘

Ps if there’s anything yall would want me to write either in my series or on the side lmk!! Im open to requests ☺️ kk bye pookies ✌️

[bun-lapin]

Mayhem VS Mystery - Chapter 1

Summary: A mysterious letter arrives at Ramshackle and the first years assemble

Word Count: 1.2k Genre: Crack/Comedy Characters: Grim, Ace, Deuce, Jack, Ortho, Sebek, (oc) Yuna & Yuuji (intro post here) CW: swearing, halloween costumes, friendly bickering

A/N: The beginning of my first Halloween fic featuring the first years and my Yuu OCs where they pull a variety of pranks at NRC! The teachers will also get some screen time! Stay tuned~! <3

Next Part - Fic on AO3

Deuce looks over at Ace with a puzzled frown and asks, “Do you know why they wanted us to come over today? I’ve probably got at least fifty messages from them bugging me about it.”

Ace flips over the doormat in front of Ramshackle Dorm’s main entrance and picks up a small key. After unlocking and opening the door, he shrugs at Deuce and answers, “No idea. Your guess is as good as mine.”

They walk into the rundown, little building and make their way towards the lounge. Seated on the various couches and arm chairs around the room are their fellow first years: Jack, Epel, Ortho, and Sebek. Standing next to the lounge’s nondescript coffee table, Yuna, Yuuji, and Grim seem to be carefully studying a black colored envelope.

Looking up at the two Heartslabyul students, Yuna dryly remarks, “Look who decided to finally show up. Also, thanks for breaking and entering!”

Ace plants his hands on his hips and retorts, “Ya know, it’s not really breaking and entering if I used a key to get in here. You need to find a better hiding spot for that thing.”

Deuce shakes his head with a small sigh and asks, “Why did you two call us over so urgently? Did something happen?”

Yuna wordlessly holds up the black envelope for everyone to see. Opening it, she takes out a letter printed on expensive looking card stock and begins to read aloud.

“Dear residents of Ramshackle Dorm, in the week leading up to Halloween, I commission you to create as much mayhem as possible on campus. Bodily harm is not permitted but you may cause as much property damage as you'd like. The end goal of your work is to cause Night Raven College to be shut down for Halloween. In the event of your success, 10,000 thaumarks will anonymously be sent to you as a reward.”

Yuna looks up and glances over at her fellow isekai adventurer, “10,000 thaumarks? Is that a lot? What’s the conversion rate here?”

Yuuji scoffs and answers dismissively, “Ugh! Don’t ask me, I’m gay. Can’t do math.”

“Bullshit! You’re ranked second in our class, you nerd!”

Turning up his nose with a small pout, Yuuji defiantly replies, “Fine! I’m gay and I won’t do math! Happy?!”

Yuna opens her mouth to continue arguing, but Ace smoothly steps in between the two of them and put his hands up in a placating motion. “Alright! We get it! It’s a lot of money,” he says in a loud voice. Raising his eyebrows skeptically, he continues, “But why did you call so many of us here? Now that we know about this deal, you’ll all get a smaller cut of the reward.”

Crossing her arms over her chest, Yuna replies, “Considering there’s only one person in Ramshackle Dorm who can use magic, I figured it’d be too difficult to spread full scale mayhem across campus. That’s why I called you, Epel, and Ortho to help us out!”

Deuce, Jack, and Sebek exchange confused glances. Politely clearing his throat, Jack gestures to the group of three and asks, “If that’s the case, what are we doing here?”

Yuuji raises his hand and answers Jack, “Actually, I’m the one who called you guys here.” Walking over to Yuna, he snatches the paper from her hands and reads the rest of the letter aloud.

“For those not wishing to cause mayhem, you may try your best to locate me, your mysterious benefactor, and hand me over to the authorities. In that unlikely event, you will still receive half of the promised money and zero risk of academic retribution."

Glancing up from the letter, Yuuji explains to the room, “I’d rather not do anything that could cause us to be kicked out of school. Especially since we’re from another world and literally have no where else to go.”

Yuna lets out a short cough that sounds like, ‘Nerd!’

Ace coughs out, ‘Fun police!’

The two of them grin mischievously and then high-five each other.

Yuuji closes his eyes and pinches the bridge of his nose. In a voice filled with barely restrained fury, he says, “Would all of the good and responsible students please follow me so that we can begin our investigation??”

Turning swiftly on his heel, he exits the room followed dutifully by Jack, Sebek, and Deuce.

After waiting for the door to softly click shut, Yuna then turns to the remaining students and claps her hands together decisively. With an excited grin, she states, “Alright! Time to put on our costumes!”

~~~

Shifting the wooden oni mask over her face, Yuna knocks on the bathroom door and calls out, “Hurry up, Epel! Everyone else is already dressed!”

Epel’s muffled voice yells back through the door, “I’m goin’ as fast as I can! Y’all just hold on to yer britches!”

Yuna tilts her head, “...Britches?”

Wearing a black and white striped sweater and a black ski mask, Ace gestures towards Yuna’s costume and asks, “While we’re waiting, care to explain what you’re supposed to be? Are you some kinda demon?”

“Close! I’m a Namahage,” Yuna replies and strikes a menacing pose, her straw cape rustling softly around her small frame. “It’s a type of demon from my world that punishes naughty or lazy children. Yuuji’s dad would sometimes dress up as one and try to scare me and Yuuji when we were little.”

Grim taps his paw against Yuna’s leg and says, “Sorry to cut the cultural lesson short, but why am I dressed as a stinkin’ toy!?” Completely covering his entire head is a fuzzy, brown teddy bear mask with an adorable expression. Covering the rest of his body, Grim wears a full-body pajama suit made of the same fuzzy, brown fabric. In fact, if it wasn’t for the extremely cranky voice coming behind the mask, Grim would be indistinguishable from a super cute teddy bear plushie.

Yuna shrugs her shoulders apologetically and answers, “Sorry, buddy! If we’re gonna get away with massive property damage, we need costumes that completely disguise who we are! And since you’re the only student on campus that’s a small, magical cat-creature with flaming ears, it’s vital we totally cover up the fact that it’s you.”

Ace gestures over towards Ortho and remarks, “That explains Ortho’s costume then. He’s probably the second-most recognizable student on campus! Ya know, with him being a robot with flaming blue hair and all?”

Completely covered by a white bed sheet with two cutout eye-holes, Ortho wiggles his hands under the sheet and says with a playful laugh, “Hey! I’m not a robot! I’m a spooky ghost~!”

Floating past the small group, the resident Ramshackle Dorm ghosts give Ortho a sidelong glance. The smallest of the ghosts whispers to the others, “I’d almost be highly offended if that costume wasn’t so darn cute!” The other two ghosts nod silently in agreement.

Finally opening the bathroom door, Epel steps out and says, “Alright! I’m done! What do ya’ll think of my bona fide scarecrow costume?” He lifts his arms, clad in a red checkered shirt and denim overalls, into a scarecrow-like pose. Over his head is a burlap sack with rough, zigzag stitches hastily sewn over two frayed eye-holes and a gaping mouth.

The group stares at Epel in silence for a few minutes.

Dropping a heavy hand on Epel’s shoulder, Yuna gives him a thumbs up and simply states, “It’s fucking terrifying.”

(To be Continued)

Next Part

[gogogodzilla]

𝙹𝚊𝚗𝚞𝚊𝚛𝚢 𝟻, 𝟸𝟶𝟹𝟸, 𝙰𝙼 𝟶𝟾:𝟺𝟹:𝟷𝟾

Summary: Your investigation leads you back to Cyberlife, and you leave with more questions than answers masterlist ✩ ao3 ✩ wattpad ✩ previous chapter ✩ next chapter ✩

Your boots click against the tile floor as you lead Gavin through Cyberlife. It’s nice to be back in familiar territory, even if the circumstances for your visit are less than ideal. You lead him to the engineering department— a buzzing hub of activity that reminds you of the DPD. Various engineers are huddled over their computers, typing rapidly or working on androids that are undergoing maintenance. Many androids sit in various glass rooms in differing states of disrepair with robotic arms working steadily on their insides. You continue walking down the main hall and head towards the workshops of the head engineers. 

You rap your knuckles on the glass pane of the door to the workshop of interest and a muffled voice tells you to come in. You spare a glance over your shoulder at Gavin, who looks completely unenthused to be there, before pushing the door open and entering. 

Dr. Matthew Hayden is a lanky man wearing glasses that are probably older than you are and a button-up shirt that’s two sizes too big. He hunches over the mangled form of an android and a metallic smell tinges the air. 

“I was beginning to wonder when you were going to venture into my neck of the woods,” he says as his gaze stays transfixed on his work. His tone is controlled, almost as if every word he says is deliberate. 

You share a look with Gavin, who shrugs his shoulders. “I was wondering if you could give us some more information about the androids that have been showing up lately,” you begin, and he sets his tools down and faces you. 

He clasps his hands in front of him, “Do you know how hard it was to get the DPD to send over an android so I could look over it?” He throws his hands up dramatically, “You would’ve thought I was asking for a human corpse with the way they were grilling me!” 

You grimace and Dr. Hayden chuckles. 

“Have you been able to find anything?” you ask as you peer around him to look at the android he’s working on. 

His gaze lingers on you for a moment before he steps to the side to let you look at the android. Your stomach churns as you scan her face. She was the first. 

Dr. Hayden peers over your shoulder and sighs. “It’s a shame someone would waste such a beautiful piece of technology,” he pauses for a moment and clicks his tongue. “Although, it’s not too much of a waste. They took the most important parts and did mostly cosmetic damage besides the missing limbs.” 

“That’s what we came here for,” Gavin interrupts. “What could the parts that have been taken be used for?”

Dr. Hayden straightens, almost as if he forgot Gavin was there. He clears his throat and grabs a nearby datapad. He’s silent for a moment as his gaze darts across the screen. “Well, it’s mostly biocomponents, which help sustain normal functions. There are also advanced processors, which could be used to modify an existing android’s cognitive abilities.” 

“Could these parts help someone create their own android?” you question as you look up at Dr. Hayden. 

His eyes flick between you and Gavin before he sets his datapad down. He crosses his arms and strokes his chin thoughtfully. “Hm, I hadn’t thought about that, Doctor. I suppose it’s possible. They would probably need to find the parts for the skeleton and outer parts, but it wouldn’t be difficult for anyone with advanced engineering skills to assemble one. Hell, we have an entire dumpsite for android parts they could scavenge!”

You heave a sigh. This just got a lot more complicated. 

You hold out your hand, “Thank you for your time, Dr. Hayden. The information you’ve given us has been very insightful.” 

He’s quick to clasp your hand in his own and give it a shake. “It’s been my pleasure, Doctor. Anything to help with your investigation, plus I’ve been eager to meet the person I’ve heard so much about.” 

You furrow your brows and force a laugh, “All good things, I hope.” 

He chuckles, “It’s mostly just talk about your work with the DPD. It’s not something Cyberlife has done before, and people are curious about how it’s going to turn out, especially with all these androids showing up like they are.” 

“Well, hopefully, we can solve this case and catch whoever is destroying the androids,” you declare as you inch toward the exit. 

“Good luck, Doctor. I have a feeling you’ll need it,” Dr. Hayden sighs. You nod in acknowledgment as you leave his office, grateful to be away from the suffocating smell of thirium that filled your lungs.

You lead Gavin toward your office, and you walk in silence as you go over your encounter with Dr. Hayden in your mind. 

“I don’t trust him,” Gavin grunts as you reach the solace of your office. You assume your normal seat at your desk and furrow your brows. 

“What? Why?” 

Gavin shrugs, “Dunno, just have a bad feeling about him.” 

“You’re gonna have to give me a little more than ‘bad vibes’ as a reason,” you chuckle. 

He rolls his eyes, “There was just something about his behavior. It seemed off.” 

“Maybe he’s just a bit quirky,” you hum. 

Gavin shoots you a glare, and you can’t help but laugh. What starts as a few chuckles quickly turns into full-on laughing so hard your eyes water. Gavin quickly joins you, and soon enough the both of you have tears running down your cheeks and your chests heaving as you try to catch your breath. 

You wipe your eyes as you take a deep breath, sighing a little as your gaze lands on Gavin sitting across from you. He leans his head back and stares up at the ceiling. A comfortable silence falls between the two of you as you take in his features. He’d taken off his jacket as soon as he entered your office and placed it on the back of his chair, allowing you to take in the way his uniform hugged his shoulders. 

“It’s rude to stare, sweetheart,” he smirks. 

You rest your head in your hand, “How the fuck are we going to solve this? It seems like this person is always one step ahead of us, and they’re getting bolder with each passing day.” 

Gavin leans forward in his chair and meets your eyes. “We’re gonna catch them, sweetheart,” he says and you almost believe him. 

[fishsticksloser]

Blossoming Protector

Liam x fem!reader

Warnings: royal au, reader is a princess, court, fluff, almost kisses

A/N: I am brainrotting this so hard and I am... Suffering. I am not good at pacing things... This is difficult for me, but I'm doing my best and I am really happy with this so far.

Previous | Next

As you take your seat behind your parents on the dais, Liam stands tall and proud at your side, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of his sword. His gaze scans the room, taking in the assembled monarchs and nobles from the various kingdoms - Lontis, Poria, Dagorthlon, Narligedand, and of course, Ophirea. The air is thick with the murmur of hushed conversations and the rustle of fine silks.

King Alastian rises from his throne, his regal bearing commanding the attention of the room. He looks out over the assembled crowd, his expression stern and imposing. When he speaks, his voice rings out clear and strong, silencing the last of the murmurs.

"Noble lords and ladies of the realms, thank you for gathering here today. We have called you here to address a matter of great importance to the peace and stability of our lands." The king's gaze turns to you, a flicker of pride and protectiveness in his eyes. He gestures for you to join him at his side, a silent command that you cannot refuse. "Princess, please join me. Let us address the elephant in the room - the crude and disrespectful behavior of Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric of Narligedand."

As you stand beside your father, Liam remains at your seat, his posture rigid and attentive. His hand rests lightly on the pommel of his sword, ready to draw it at a moment's notice should the need arise. His blue eyes, visible beneath the raised visor of his helmet, scan the room warily, watching for any sign of trouble or threat.

King Alastian clears his throat, drawing the attention of the room back to him. He looks out over the assembled nobles, his expression stern and unyielding.

"I will not tolerate such disrespect towards my daughter, or any woman, under any circumstances. Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric's behavior was inexcusable and beneath the dignity of their stations. They have brought shame upon themselves and their houses with their crude remarks and inappropriate advances." The king's voice rises, his tone turning sharp and commanding. "I have called for them to answer for their transgressions. Let them come forward now, and face the consequences of their actions. I will not abide by such blatant disrespect in my presence."

The throne room falls silent as King Alastian speaks, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. The assembled monarchs and nobles exchange uneasy glances, unsure of how the situation will unfold.

Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric exchange a look, a silent communication passing between them. After a tense moment, they step forward, bowing awkwardly before the king and princess.

"Your Majesty," Lord Reginald begins, his voice dripping with false sincerity. "We apologize for any offense we may have caused. We meant no disrespect to the Princess or your royal house. It was a momentary lapse in judgment, nothing more."

Prince Malaric nods in agreement, his gaze flicking briefly to you before returning to your father. "Indeed, Your Majesty. We are men of high standing and great ambition. We did not intend to sully the princess's reputation with our words. Please, accept our sincerest apologies and allow us to make amends."

King Alastian steps forward, his tall frame towering over Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric. His eyes, normally so warm and kind, now blaze with a fury that makes even the bravest of the assembled nobles take a step back.

Your father leans down, his face mere inches from Lord Reginald's. The air between them crackles with tension as the king speaks, his words measured and deliberate. "You dare to stand before me and claim your words were mere 'lapses in judgment'? You, who have built your reputation on the backs of the downtrodden and the weak? You, who would seek to sully the name of my beloved daughter, the jewel of Ophirea?" When he speaks, his voice is low and dangerous, filled with a quiet power that demands obedience. 

The king's gaze turns to Prince Malaric, his lip curling in disgust. "And you, a prince of Narligedand, think to apologize for your crude remarks with such flippancy? You, who have shown your true colors as a man of no honor, no integrity, no respect for the women of this realm?" 

King Alastian's gaze sweeps over the assembled monarchs and nobles, his expression grim and unyielding. "I have long tolerated the machinations and petty squabbles of you so-called 'noble' houses. But I will not stand idly by while my daughter's honor and reputation are besmirched by the likes of you."

He turns back to Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric, his voice dropping to a low, menacing growl. "You have a choice. You can leave this place now, never to return, and face the consequences of your actions. Or, you can stay and face the judgment of the kingdoms united."

The king gestures to the other monarchs, his voice ringing out clear and strong. "Noble rulers of Lontis, Poria, Dagorthlon, and Narligedand - I call upon you to bear witness and render your judgment. Will you stand with me in defending the honor and dignity of all women, or will you align yourselves with those who seek to destroy it?"

A tense silence falls over the throne room as the assembled monarchs and nobles await the judgment of their leaders. The air is thick with anticipation and the weight of the moment.

The assembled monarchs and nobles exchange uneasy glances, the weight of King Alastian's words hanging heavy in the air. After a long, tense moment, the King and Queen of Poria stand, their regal bearing commanding the attention of the room.

King Trison speaks, his voice filled with a quiet authority. "We stand with you, Alastian. The honor and dignity of all women must be protected and upheld. Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric's actions were a slap in the face to not only the Princess but to every woman in the realms."

Queen Fione nods in agreement, her gaze turning to the kneeling men. "Their apology rings hollow, and their actions speak louder than their words. We cannot allow such disrespect to go unpunished."

One by one, the other monarchs rise to voice their support of King Alastian's stance. The King and Queen of Lontis, the King of Dagorthlon, and even the King and Queen of Narligedand, despite their son's transgressions, all speak out against Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric's behavior.

As you take your seat once more, Liam rests his hand lightly on the back of your chair, a silent gesture of support and protection. His fingers brush against your shoulder, a comforting touch that grounds you amidst the tense atmosphere of the throne room.

King Alastian listens intently as each monarch speaks, his expression growing grimmer with each passing moment. Once the last vote has been cast, he turns back to the still kneeling Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric, his gaze hard and unyielding.

When he speaks, his voice is filled with a quiet, dangerous power. "The kingdoms have spoken, and their judgment is clear. Your actions have brought dishonor upon yourselves and shame upon your houses. As such, I hereby strip you of your titles and lands, effective immediately."

Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric pale at the king's words, their eyes widening in shock and disbelief. "Your Majesty, you cannot!" Lord Reginald protests, his voice rising in panic. "My lands, my wealth, my legacy - it is everything to me!"

Prince Malaric nods in agreement, his face etched with fear. "And I am a prince of Narligedand!”

King Aldric silences their protests with a single, sharp gesture of his hand. His eyes flash with a cold fury as he leans down, his voice low and dangerous. "You dare to speak of your precious titles and wealth? When you have shown such blatant disregard for the dignity and honor of a princess, of all women? You are unworthy of the privileges and power you once held."

The king turns to the assembled monarchs, his voice ringing out clear and strong. "I call upon the guards of each kingdom to seize the lands, titles, and assets of Lord Reginald and Prince Malaric. Their wealth is to be held in trust, to be used for the betterment of the kingdoms and the protection of women. As for the men themselves..."

King Alastian's gaze turns back to the kneeling nobles, his expression grim and unyielding. "You will be stripped of your armor and weapons, then escorted from the castle and the kingdom. You will be given a single horse and a purse of gold coins sufficient for your immediate needs. Consider this a mercy, for you have not earned the right to be called noblemen any longer."

As you stand to leave, Liam mirrors your movement, his tall frame straightening to its full imposing height. He falls into step beside you, his armored form a silent guardian as you make your way out of the now empty throne room.

King Alastian and the King Romas and Queen Cecille of Narligedand pause in their conversation as you approach, their gazes turning to you. Your father's eyes are filled with a mix of pride and concern, while the Narligedand royals wear expressions of discomfort and unease.

King Alastian reaches out, gently taking your arm to halt your progress. "My dear," he says softly, his voice still tinged with the gravity of the moment. "I know this was a trying ordeal, but I am so very proud of how you handled yourself. You carried yourself with the dignity and grace befitting a true princess."

He glances to the Narligedand royals, his expression turning serious. "I have assured their majesties that this punishment is not a reflection of the relationship between our kingdoms. Prince Malaric's actions were his own, and he alone must bear the consequences. Our alliance remains strong, now and always."

"That is good to hear. I will be honest and say I became quite good friends with your daughter when she visited last year. Malaric's behavior was different from any of your other children, they should know I do not hold any ill will towards them." You smile at the king and queen, giving a small bow as you finally leave. You let out a heavy breath when you’re out of the throne room, turning to Liam. "Would you like to get some fresh air with me, dear knight?"

Liam bows his head slightly as you turn to him, a flicker of warmth in his blue eyes beneath the shadow of his helmet. "Of course, Princess. I would be honored to accompany you in the fresh air. After the stuffy atmosphere of the throne room, a walk in nature would be most welcome."

He offers you his arm, the steel of his armor cool and smooth beneath your fingers as you take hold of it. As you both exit the castle, Liam leads you towards the sprawling gardens that surround the fortress.

The sun is warm on your skin as you step out into the open air, the scent of blooming flowers and green grass filling your nostrils. Liam guides you along the winding path, his steps measured and sure. He keeps you close to his side, a silent promise of protection and support.

As you walk, Liam speaks softly, his voice a soothing balm after the tension of the throne room. "I know your friendship with the princess of Narligedand means much to you. It is a testament to your compassion and kindness, that you would seek to reassure their parents of your goodwill despite their son's transgressions."

"The rest of Narligedand has done nothing wrong, there is no need to have any ill feelings towards them." You point out, situating your hand on his arm better.

Liam nods solemnly as you speak, his hand covering yours on his arm in a gesture of agreement and support. "You are wise to make such a distinction, Princess. It is a mark of your mature and compassionate nature that you refuse to tar the innocent with the same brush as the guilty. The people of Narligedand, save for Prince Malaric, have given you no cause for ill will, and you are right to recognize that."

He guides you to a secluded bench beneath a towering oak tree, its leaves rustling gently in the warm breeze. As you both take a seat, Liam turns to face you, his blue eyes filled with a quiet intensity.

"I have admired your kindness and wisdom since the day I first became your guardian. You have a rare ability to see the truth beneath the surface, to judge people not by their station or the actions of their kin, but by their own merits and deeds. It is a quality that will serve you well as you take your place as queen one day."

Liam's gaze drifts to your hand on his arm, and he gives it a gentle squeeze, a silent acknowledgment of the connection between you. "I am honored to be your knight, Princess."

Your gaze snaps to his helmeted face, only able to see his eyes, but they’re unreadable. "You sound solemn..." You mumble, Liam's breath hitches slightly as your hand cups the cheek of his helmet, the cool metal a stark contrast to the warmth of your skin. He leans into your touch, a subconscious gesture of trust and intimacy.

When he speaks, his voice is low and filled with a quiet emotion, tinged with a hint of sadness. "Forgive me, Princess. I did not mean to imply that I would be leaving your side. I am bound to you, now and always, by oath and by... Other feelings that I dare not voice."

Liam's hand comes up to cover yours on his cheek, his fingers curling around your hand as he holds it in place. His blue eyes search yours, a swirling mix of devotion, longing, and a deeper, more intimate emotion that makes your heart ache.

"I merely meant that the path ahead will not be an easy one. There will be challenges and obstacles, those who seek to undermine your father's decree and your rightful place on the throne. But I swear to you now, as I have sworn before - I will stand by your side through all of it. I will protect you, guide you, and support you, no matter what may come."

"Can I... Ask you some questions, dear knight?" You ask softly, the warmth of your hand seeps through the metal of his helmet. Liam's gaze flickers briefly to your lips, a moment of shared awareness before he meets your eyes once more. When he speaks, his voice is low and filled with a quiet, painful honesty.

"I made that vow after... A past I would rather not revisit. A time when I was not the man I am now, when I let my temper and my anger control me. I did things that I deeply regret. I swore to never show my face again, as penance and as a reminder. A reminder that I am not worthy of being seen, of being looked upon with anything other than disgust and disdain. I am a knight, but I am not a good man, not like you deserve."

You hum softly, leaning forward, Liam's breath catches in his throat as your lips brush against the metal of his helmet, a shudder running through his tall frame at the intimate gesture. His blue eyes widen in surprise, a flicker of hope and disbelief warring with the ever-present shadows. 

"I do not believe that..." You whisper, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes again, his gaze locked with yours. "If you were as bad as you claim, you would not be trusted as my guard." You shake your head a little, smiling softly. "No... You're a beautiful man, my knight..."

At your soft words, his brows furrow slightly, a mix of confusion and tentative wonder in his eyes. "Princess, I..." He swallows hard, his voice rough with emotion. "You are too kind, too compassionate. I am not the man you think I am. I have done things, seen things, that no one should have to bear. I am not beautiful, I am broken."

"Even broken things can be beautiful." You murmur, Liam inhales sharply as your hand slips beneath his chest plate, your fingers brushing against the fabric of his tunic. The heat of your touch seeps through the material, warming the scarred and battle-hardened flesh beneath. His heart pounds beneath your palm, a steady, powerful rhythm that belies the turmoil in his eyes. "I wish you could see yourself like I see you, dear knight..."

He reaches up with his free hand, his gauntleted fingers trembling slightly as they hover near your cheek. They hover there for a long, agonizing moment before gently cupping your face, the cool metal a stark contrast to the warmth of your skin.

When he speaks, his voice is low and filled with a raw, aching sincerity. "Princess, if I could see myself through your eyes, I would be the luckiest man in the realms. But I am not worthy of such a gift, such a blessing. I am a knight, sworn to serve and protect you, not to burden you with my darkness."

His thumb brushes lightly over your cheekbone, a feather-light touch that sends a shiver down your spine. "You are a dream, a vision of perfection and grace. And I... I am the man who would move heaven and earth to make that dream a reality."

You turn your head, leaning into his touch. "I would move mountains for you, dear knight... Tell me what you want and I will see that you get it. Say the word and it's yours..." You whisper, the warmth of your breath ghosting over the metal of his helmet. His heart races, pounding against the cage of his ribs as if trying to break free and offer itself to you completely.

He leans in closer, his voice dropping to a low, fervent whisper. "Princess, if you only knew the thoughts that fill my mind, the desires that consume me when I am near you... But I cannot, I must not, give voice to them. You are pure and good, and I... I am not worthy of the feelings that stir within me."

His hand slides from your cheek to the back of your neck, his fingers tangling gently in your hair. He holds you close, his forehead lowering to rest against the top of your head, a silent plea for understanding. "All I want, all I have ever wanted, is to keep you safe. To be the shield that protects you from all the darkness and cruelty of this world. I would slay a thousand dragons, traverse a thousand miles of treacherous terrain, to keep a single tear from falling from your eyes. That is the only reward I seek, the only treasure I desire."

"You... Have thoughts of me...?" I whisper, Liam's grip tightens in your hair as you tilt your head up, his blue eyes blazing with a fierce, intense emotion that steals the breath from your lungs. When he speaks, his voice is low and rough, tinged with a hunger that sends a thrill racing down your spine.

"Princess, I... I have more than thoughts of you. I have dreams, fantasies, that consume my every waking moment and haunt my sleeping mind. I see you in every sunrise, every sunset, every star that lights the night sky. I hear your laughter in the rustling of the leaves, your voice in the whisper of the wind." His other hand, still holding yours, brings it up to his helmet. Even through the metal of his gauntlet, you can feel the heat of his skin, the desperate longing in his touch. "I am a knight, sworn to protect and serve, but I am also a man. I would give anything, do anything, to be worthy of your affections. But I know that I am not, and I know that I never will be."

"Liam..." His eyes widen as you gasp, a flicker of fear and uncertainty in their blue depths. As you pull him closer, he allows himself a single, precious moment to revel in your nearness, to breathe in the scent of your hair and the warmth of your skin.

But the moment is shattered by the sound of your mother's voice, and he jerks back as if burned. The sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the garden and painting the sky in hues of orange and red.

Liam's hand falls away from your hair, his arm lowering to his side as he takes a step back, putting some much-needed distance between your bodies. When he speaks, his voice is low and rough, tinged with a mix of longing and regret. "Forgive me, Princess. I... I allowed myself to forget my place, to lose myself in a moment of weakness. You must think me a fool, a reckless, impulsive fool." He bows his head, his gaze fixed on the ground at his feet. "I am your knight, your guardian, and I swore to protect you from all harm. I will not fail in my duty, no matter the cost to myself."

"No... No, I don't..." You shake your head, taking a step towards him only for him to take a step back. You freeze, taking a step back again. "You're far from a fool, Liam..." You hear your mother call again, but you ache to stay with him, though you don't want to face your mother's wrath. "I wish I had more time... But my mother calls... In the morning, come see me...?"

Liam's gaze flickers up to meet yours, a mix of hope and hesitation warring in the depths of his blue eyes. At your words, a flicker of something akin to joy sparks in their depths, only to be quickly banked by the ever-present shadows. 

He bows his head once more, a gesture of deference and respect. "As my princess commands. I will come to you at first light, ready to attend to your needs and desires. Until then, I pray that you find rest and peace in your slumber." Liam takes a step back, then another, putting more distance between your bodies. The garden seems to grow darker, the shadows lengthening as the last of the sun's light fades away. "Sweet dreams, Princess," he murmurs, his voice low and filled with a tender, aching sincerity. "May the gods watch over you and keep you safe in my absence. Until the morrow, my heart is yours, now and always."

[sp-epari-digitalmedia]

The Simulation in Ghost-Runner Through Baudrillard's Spectacle of Simulacra

BLOG 4: SIMULATION IN GAME

While exploring the wide world of video games, I became aware of an odd phenomenon: the differing levels of relatability between different games. Some felt strangely detached to me, despite being deeply rooted in or inspired by our reality. Conversely, there were some that I could really relate to that were only found in the world of fiction. Of these, Ghost-Runner stood out as an intriguing outlier. Paradoxically, it held me in a manner that few others could. It was strikingly devoid of any concrete connection to the outside world.

Until I came across the theories of Simulation and Simulacra, the mystery remained. With my newfound understanding, I set out on an analytical journey using the Spectacle of Simulacra by Jean Baudrillard as my compass. The objective was to ascertain what in Ghost-Runner's virtual world prompted such a feeling of familiarity. Come along as we investigate the relationship between philosophy and gaming, trying to find the answer to the fascinating question that has been bothering me: What aspects of the game's portrayal resonate so deeply with me?

About Ghost-Runner

Ghost-Runner is a dynamic first-person action slasher game, where players step into the shoes of an agile android ninja armed with a katana. With slick parkour-inspired moves like wall running, sliding, and time manipulation, players ascend neon cyberpunk skyscrapers, confronting foes with each potent swing. Set in a dystopian city governed by the oppressive Key-master and plagued by violence, poverty, and class inequality, players aim to reach the top, uncovering the technology to stand against enemies and revealing the secrets of their identity. This cyberpunk adventure delivers an adrenaline-fueled experience, seamlessly blending abilities and melee combat for ultimate satisfaction in a futuristic world torn by conflict.

Academic Standpoint

Two key studies have shaped my perception of how media is portrayed through simulation.

First of all, a fundamental framework is provided by Jean Baudrillard's investigation of simulacra. According to Baudrillard, reflection is exploring ideas in order to offer different points of view—basically, trying to reflect the real picture of the social or natural world that is bounded by preexisting boundaries. He breaks down the simulation process into three essential steps: simulation, which indicates copies without the original; series, which indicates copies of copies of the original; and counterfeit, which indicates copies of the original. (Grandy and Mills, 2004)

Additionally, the work of Mark J.P Wolf and Bernard Perron, outlined in their book, introduces the idea that to simulate is to model a source system through a different system while retaining some of the behavior from the original system. This perspective adds another layer to the examination of Ghost-Runner, allowing for a nuanced understanding of how the game constructs its virtual reality and the implications of this simulated environment on player experience. These academic foundations serve as guideposts in unraveling the intricacies of Ghost-Runner's portrayal and its alignment with theories surrounding simulation in media studies. (Perron and Wolf, 2013)

Noticeable Game Features and Analysis

In dissecting the notable features of Ghost-Runner, various elements come to the fore, providing rich material for analysis.

Cultural Reference Points

Swords and Katana

The game uses swords and katanas that are typically associated with ronin or samurais, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural history of mediaeval Japan. This representation, which was assembled from various video games, websites, and gaming platforms, turns historical allusions into entertaining content for viewers.

Conceptual Synonymity

Self-Sufficient Building

The primary theme centers on an autonomous building, a notion that finds resonance in the ongoing development of The Line in Saudi Arabia, which is an independent city housed inside a structure. This real-world parallel fits with modern architectural advancements and lends credibility to the game's story.

Hierarchy within the Building

The in-game societal organization is conceptually underpinned by the hierarchical settlement of elites on upper floors and the less fortunate on lower levels, which is modelled after historical social structures such as the French feudal system or the Hindu caste system.

Hyper-real Environment

Japanese Elements

The backdrop, which has a lot of Japanese aesthetics and is reminiscent of Cyberpunk 2077, is another example of how various media forms work together to create an environment that seems extremely real. The gaming experience is enhanced by this intertextuality.

Post-apocalyptic Elements

The post-apocalyptic setting, a recurring motif in television shows and films like Wall-E and The Walking Dead, adds to the hyper-real setting by portraying a world that has been completely destroyed and altered by terrible events.

Simulated Identities

Android Protagonist

The game joins the conversation about human-machine hybrids by introducing an android protagonist. With allusions to a variety of media, including Iron Man, Chappie, Terminator, DC Cyborg, and Chappie, Ghost-Runner delves into the complex effects of technological progress on identity.

Prosthetic Limbs

The development of prosthetic limbs in real life serves as the basis for the animation of the hand in the first-person perspective. This integration bridges the gap between speculative fiction and current technological possibilities and gives the character an additional layer of authenticity.

Conclusion

Essentially, Ghost-Runner is a game that goes beyond traditional gaming experiences because it skillfully combines historical, cultural, and hyper-real elements. It does this by providing an insightful journey that can be viewed through the prism of Jean Baudrillard's Spectacle of Simulacra. The game creates a visually stunning and emotionally impactful hyper-real environment by fusing references to mediaeval Japan with a post-apocalyptic, futuristic story. From a conceptual standpoint, Ghost-Runner draws inspiration from actual events, like Saudi Arabia's The Line, which gives the story more plausibility. The game's artificial intelligence (AI)-driven hierarchy and exploration of simulated identities, which include an android protagonist and prosthetic limbs are modelled after historical counterparts. In addition to being a game, Ghost-Runner is a sophisticated investigation of simulation and reality that challenges players to consider how the boundaries between the virtual and the real might become hazier in the constantly changing world of digital storytelling.

Reference

Grandy, G. and Mills, A.J. (2004) 'Strategy as Simulacra? A radical reflexive look at the discipline and practice of strategy*,' Journal of Management Studies, 41(7), pp. 1153–1170. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-6486.2004.00470.x.

Perron, B. and Wolf, M.J.P. (2013) The Video Game Theory Reader, Routledge eBooks. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203700457.

PlayStation (2020b) Ghostrunner - Launch Trailer | PS4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vt8yOLn8vmo.

[puravivefatburner]

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[sunaleisocial]

Core Components for NASA’s Roman Space Telescope Pass Major Shake Test - NASA

New Post has been published on https://sunalei.org/news/core-components-for-nasas-roman-space-telescope-pass-major-shake-test-nasa/

Core Components for NASA’s Roman Space Telescope Pass Major Shake Test - NASA

The core portion of NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope has successfully completed vibration testing, ensuring it will withstand the extreme shaking experienced during launch. Passing this key milestone brings Roman one step closer to helping answer essential questions about the role of dark energy and other cosmic mysteries.

“The test could be considered as powerful as a pretty severe earthquake, but there are key differences,” said Cory Powell, the Roman lead structural analyst at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “Unlike an earthquake, we sweep through our frequencies one at a time, starting with very low-level amplitudes and gradually increasing them while we check everything along the way. It’s a very complicated process that takes extraordinary effort to do safely and efficiently.”

The team simulated launch conditions as closely as possible. “We performed the test in a flight-powered configuration and filled the propulsion tanks with approximately 295 gallons of deionized water to simulate the propellent loading on the spacecraft during launch,” said Joel Proebstle, who led this test, at NASA Goddard. This is part of a series of tests that ratchet up to 125 percent of the forces the observatory will experience.

This milestone is the latest in a period of intensive testing for the nearly complete Roman Space Telescope, with many major parts coming together and running through assessments in rapid succession. Roman currently consists of two major assemblies: the inner, core portion (telescope, instrument carrier, two instruments, and spacecraft) and theouter portion (outer barrel assembly, solar array sun shield, and deployable aperture cover).

Now, having completed vibration testing, the core portion will return to the large clean room at Goddard for post-test inspections. They’ll confirm that everything remains properly aligned and the high-gain antenna can deploy. The next major assessment for the core portion will involve additional tests of the electronics, followed by a thermal vacuum test to ensure the system will operate as planned in the harsh space environment.

[embedded content]

This video highlights some of the important hardware milestones as NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope moves closer to completion. The observatory is almost fully assembled, currently built up into two large pieces: the inner portion (telescope, instrument carrier, two instruments, and spacecraft) and outer portion (outer barrel assembly, solar array sun shield, and deployable aperture cover). This video shows the testing these segments have undergone between February and May 2025. Credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center

In the meantime, Goddard technicians are also working on Roman’s outer portion. They installed the test solar array sun shield, and this segment then underwent its own thermal vacuum test, verifying it will control temperatures properly in the vacuum of space. Now, technicians are installing the flight solar panels to this outer part of the observatory.   The team is on track to connect Roman’s two major assemblies in November, resulting in a whole observatory by the end of the year that will then undergo final tests. Roman remains on schedule for launch by May 2027, with the team aiming for as early as fall 2026.

The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is managed at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, with participation by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California; Caltech/IPAC in Pasadena, California; the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore; and a science team comprising scientists from various research institutions. The primary industrial partners are BAE Systems Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York; and Teledyne Scientific & Imaging in Thousand Oaks, California.   By Ashley Balzer NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

[hearexpert]

Are ITC Hearing Aids Custom-Made?

Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Thanks to advancements in technology, there are various types of hearing aids available to cater to different levels of hearing impairment. One of the most popular styles is the In-the-Canal (ITC) hearing aids. A frequently asked question about ITC hearing aids is whether they are custom-made. The answer is yes—ITC hearing aids are designed specifically for the unique shape of an individual’s ear canal.

What Are ITC Hearing Aids?

ITC hearing aids are a type of custom-fit hearing device that sits partly inside the ear canal. They are smaller than Behind-the-Ear (BTE) models but larger than Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aids. Their design allows them to be discreet while still offering advanced features that improve sound quality and user experience.

The Customization Process for ITC Hearing Aids

ITC hearing aids are custom-made to ensure they fit snugly in the wearer’s ear canal. The customization process involves several steps:

Ear Impression – A professional audiologist or hearing specialist takes an impression of the user’s ear canal using a special mold. This step ensures that the hearing aid is shaped perfectly to fit the unique contours of the ear.

Digital Modeling and Design – The ear impression is scanned digitally, and advanced software is used to design the hearing aid shell to match the user’s ear anatomy.

Manufacturing and Assembly – The hearing aid shell is crafted using medical-grade materials, and internal components such as microphones, amplifiers, and receivers are integrated.

Final Fitting and Adjustments – Once the device is ready, the user returns to the audiologist for a fitting session. Adjustments are made to ensure comfort, proper amplification, and an optimal listening experience.

Hear Expert professionals provide comprehensive consultations and personalized fitting services to help you find the perfect ITC hearing aid solution. With the right choice and expert guidance from experienced hearing specialists, ITC hearing aids can significantly improve your hearing experience and overall quality of life.

Benefits of ITC Hearing Aids

There are several reasons why many people choose ITC hearing aids over other styles:

1. Custom Fit for Comfort

Since ITC hearing aids are molded to the shape of the user’s ear canal, they provide a comfortable fit and minimize irritation.

2. Discreet Design

ITC hearing aids are less noticeable than BTE models, making them a great choice for individuals who want a more discreet hearing solution.

3. Advanced Features

Many ITC hearing aids come equipped with modern technology, such as:

Noise Reduction – Helps minimize background noise in noisy environments.

Directional Microphones – Improve speech clarity by focusing on the sound source.

Wireless Connectivity – Some models offer Bluetooth compatibility for connecting with smartphones and other devices.

Rechargeable Batteries – Eliminates the need for frequent battery changes.

Who Should Consider ITC Hearing Aids?

ITC hearing aids are best suited for individuals who:

Have mild to moderate hearing loss.

Prefer a discreet hearing aid that is not highly visible.

Want a balance between size and advanced features.

Do not have severe dexterity issues, as handling small devices can be challenging

Factors to Consider When Choosing ITC Hearing Aids

Before purchasing ITC hearing aids, consider the following factors:

1. Degree of Hearing Loss

ITC hearing aids work best for mild to moderate hearing loss. If you have severe hearing loss, you may need a larger model with more power.

2. Lifestyle Needs

Think about your daily activities and environments. If you spend time in noisy settings, choose an ITC model with noise reduction and directional microphone technology.

3. Maintenance Requirements

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent earwax buildup and ensure the longevity of the device.

4. Budget Considerations

ITC hearing aids come in various price ranges depending on features and brand. Discuss your budget with an audiologist to find the best option for your needs.

Conclusion

Yes, ITC hearing aids are custom-made to fit the unique contours of each user's ear canal. This personalized fit ensures comfort, discretion, and enhanced sound quality. While they offer numerous benefits, including advanced features and a nearly invisible appearance, they also have some limitations, such as limited amplification and susceptibility to earwax buildup. If you are considering ITC hearing aids, consult with an audiologist to determine if they are the right solution for your hearing needs.

[coffee-grinder-manufacturer]

The Excellence of China Factory Coffee Grinder Supplier ZY-1301

In the vast landscape of the coffee industry, the search for a reliable and high-quality coffee grinder supplier is of utmost importance. Enter the China Factory coffee grinder Supplier ZY-1301, a name that has been making significant waves in the market.

The ZY-1301 model from this Chinese factory represents a perfect blend of innovation, precision engineering, and a commitment to delivering top-notch coffee grinding solutions. China has long been recognized as a manufacturing powerhouse, and this factory is no exception. It combines state-of-the-art technology with skilled craftsmanship to produce coffee grinders that meet the diverse needs of coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The factory behind the ZY-1301 takes pride in its modern production facilities. Equipped with advanced machinery and automated processes, it ensures consistency and quality in every unit produced. The attention to detail during the manufacturing stage is remarkable. From the selection of materials to the final assembly, each step is carried out with meticulous care to guarantee that the coffee grinder performs flawlessly.

One of the standout features of the ZY-1301 is its grinding mechanism. Engineered to provide a precise and uniform grind, it allows coffee lovers to extract the fullest flavor from their beans. Whether you prefer a coarse French press grind or a fine espresso grind, this grinder can deliver with accuracy. The adjustable settings give users the flexibility to customize their coffee grinding experience, making it suitable for various brewing methods.

In addition to its superior performance, the ZY-1301 also boasts a sleek and stylish design. It not only functions well but also adds an aesthetic appeal to any coffee setup. The user interface is intuitive and easy to operate, making it accessible to both novice and experienced coffee aficionados.

The China Factory coffee grinder Supplier ZY-1301 understands the importance of quality control. Stringent testing procedures are in place to ensure that each grinder leaving the factory meets the highest standards. This commitment to quality gives customers the confidence that they are investing in a reliable and durable product.

Furthermore, the supplier offers excellent customer service. Their team of experts is readily available to answer any queries, provide technical support, and assist with after-sales service. This level of dedication to customer satisfaction builds a strong and trusting relationship between the supplier and its clients.

The ZY-1301 is not just a coffee grinder; it is a symbol of the factory's dedication to excellence and its ability to meet the global demand for quality coffee equipment. It showcases China's manufacturing capabilities and its contribution to the worldwide coffee culture.

In a competitive market, the China Factory coffee grinder Supplier ZY-1301 stands out by continuously evolving and improving. They keep up with the latest trends and technologies in the coffee industry, incorporating new features and enhancements into their products. This forward-thinking approach ensures that their coffee grinders remain at the forefront of innovation.

In conclusion, the China Factory coffee grinder Supplier ZY-1301 has established itself as a reliable and reputable source in the coffee equipment market. With its combination of quality, performance, design, and customer support, it is no wonder that it has gained popularity among coffee lovers around the world. As the coffee industry continues to grow, this supplier is well-positioned to play a significant role in providing top-quality coffee grinding solutions for years to come.

[korshubudemycoursesblog]

Process Management: Value & Non-Value Add

In today's fast-paced business world, process management plays a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across various operations. But when we talk about process management, one key factor that comes up is understanding value and non-value add activities. Whether you're running a startup or working in a well-established company, recognizing and differentiating these elements can help streamline processes and enhance overall productivity.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into Process Management: Value & Non-Value Add, exploring its significance, ways to identify both, and how to improve your business operations by focusing on what's truly important.

What is Process Management?

Before we get into the specifics of value and non-value add activities, it's crucial to understand what process management entails. Simply put, process management is the practice of designing, executing, monitoring, and optimizing business processes to achieve organizational goals. It helps businesses reduce waste, improve efficiency, and provide better customer service.

But not all parts of a process contribute equally. Some tasks create value for the customer, while others don’t. This is where the concepts of value add and non-value add activities come into play.

Value-Add Activities in Process Management

Value-add activities are tasks that directly contribute to the final product or service, offering something that the customer is willing to pay for. These activities are essential because they enhance the customer experience, improve product quality, or directly impact the service's effectiveness.

For instance, in a manufacturing process, activities like assembling parts, quality checks, and packaging can be considered value-add because they are necessary for the product to be completed and delivered to the customer.

How to Identify Value-Add Activities

Customer Perspective: Ask yourself, "Would the customer pay for this?" If the answer is yes, it's likely a value-add activity.

Essential for Product or Service: Determine if the task is crucial for completing the final product or service.

Improves Quality: If the activity directly contributes to a higher-quality end product or service, it is adding value.

Non-Value Add Activities: The Hidden Waste

Non-value add activities, on the other hand, are tasks that consume time, resources, or effort but do not directly contribute to the product or service from the customer's perspective. These are often considered wasteful, and eliminating or minimizing them can lead to significant cost savings and process efficiency. Examples of non-value add activities include waiting times, redundant approvals, excessive paperwork, and rework due to errors.

Although non-value add activities may seem unavoidable in some instances, such as regulatory compliance or safety checks, businesses should always strive to reduce their presence wherever possible.

Common Non-Value Add Activities

Waiting: Delays in the production line due to resource constraints or bottlenecks.

Over-processing: Performing more work than what is required to meet customer needs.

Unnecessary Motion: Movements by employees that do not add value to the product or service.

Excess Inventory: Storing more materials or products than needed for current operations.

The Importance of Recognizing Value & Non-Value Add Activities

Recognizing and differentiating between value and non-value add activities is key to optimizing your business processes. Not only does it help you focus on what truly matters to your customer, but it also enables you to eliminate waste, reduce costs, and improve overall process efficiency.

By focusing on value-add activities, you can:

Enhance customer satisfaction by delivering higher quality products or services.

Increase efficiency by streamlining operations and removing unnecessary steps.

Reduce costs by eliminating non-value add tasks that do not contribute to the end product.

How to Reduce Non-Value Add Activities

Now that we’ve identified the difference between value-add and non-value add activities, the next step is to work on reducing or eliminating the latter. Here’s how:

Lean Process Management: One of the most effective ways to minimize non-value add activities is through Lean process management principles. Lean focuses on reducing waste and optimizing workflows to ensure that every step adds value to the customer.

Automation: Some non-value add activities, such as redundant paperwork or data entry, can be automated using technology, freeing up employees for more value-driven tasks.

Continuous Improvement: Adopt a mindset of continuous improvement where processes are regularly reviewed, and inefficiencies are addressed.

Employee Training: Educate your team on identifying non-value add activities and empower them to find solutions to eliminate or minimize them.

Examples of Process Management in Different Industries

Process management is crucial across various sectors, from manufacturing to services. Let’s explore how different industries use Process Management: Value & Non-Value Add to improve their operations:

Manufacturing

In manufacturing, process management involves streamlining production lines to ensure that every step adds value. Value-add activities include assembly, testing, and packaging, while non-value add activities might involve excessive movement of materials or waiting for equipment to become available.

Healthcare

Healthcare providers use process management to improve patient care. Value-add activities might include patient diagnosis and treatment, while non-value add activities could be excessive paperwork or waiting times for appointments.

Retail

In the retail industry, value-add activities could involve stocking shelves or serving customers, whereas non-value add tasks might include excessive inventory or redundant processes in managing suppliers.

Key Takeaways for Businesses

Focus on the customer: Always ask whether a specific task is something the customer would be willing to pay for.

Eliminate waste: Actively seek out non-value add activities and reduce or eliminate them.

Invest in technology: Automation can help eliminate some non-value add activities and make your process more efficient.

Continuous improvement: Regularly evaluate your processes to identify opportunities for improvement.

Conclusion

In the competitive landscape of business today, understanding and managing Process Management: Value & Non-Value Add can provide a significant edge. By focusing on what truly matters—value-add activities—you can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. On the other hand, eliminating or minimizing non-value add activities can lead to leaner processes and a more efficient organization overall.

To thrive in the business world, it’s essential to regularly review your processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and adapt to the ever-changing market needs. So, take a step back, assess your operations, and start the journey toward more effective process management today!

[makerstm]

Your Guide To Understanding The Significance Of Engineering Services

In the current scenario, Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing Co. LLC is a shining example of excellence. Founded in the United States, this company has earned a reputation for delivering top-tier solutions through its team of dedicated engineers. With a focus on mechanical and mechatronics engineering, Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing brings a wealth of expertise. 

This blog will focus on the distinctive features that highlight the firm’s commitment to depth, breadth, and technical innovation.

The Backbone of Makers: Engineers at the Helm

Engineers are the lifeblood of Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing. The company relies heavily on the prowess of its mechanical and mechatronics engineers to conceptualize, design, fabricate, and assemble equipment. These engineers drive the company’s success, taking ideas from a blank sheet of paper to the shop floor, where they come to life.

The Engineering Expertise: Listening to Customers

One of the fundamental pillars of Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing is its customer-centric approach. Their engineers actively listen to customer needs, requirements, and challenges. This initial step sets the foundation for the entire design and manufacturing process, ensuring the final product perfectly aligns with the customer’s expectations.

Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

After the ideation phase, Maker’s engineers employ cutting-edge Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to translate their concepts into detailed, 3D digital models. CAD not only aids in visualizing the design but also facilitates precise measurements and simulations, ensuring that every component is optimized for performance and functionality.

The Procedure on the Shop Floor

Once you are familiar with the significance of engineering, you should focus on the procedure on the shop floor. When you have information about the settings, you should ask a professional to assist you. Here are some of the ideas you need to focus on:

Fabrication and Assembly

Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing’s engineering staff is not confined to drawing boards and computer screens. They are hands-on professionals who take pride in fabricating and assembling the finished equipment. This holistic approach ensures that the designs are aesthetically appealing, functionally robust, and reliable.

Complex Problem Solving

Depth and breadth are the first qualities found in Maker’s engineering staff. They thrive on challenges and complex problems. Whether developing custom automation solutions or crafting intricate mechanical components, Maker’s engineers excel in finding innovative answers to technical difficulties. This relentless pursuit of excellence sets Maker’s apart in precision manufacturing.

Integration and Innovation

In addition to the engineering expertise, you should focus on the ideas suited to focus on integration and innovation in the process.

Integration: The Core Principle

Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing emphasizes integration as a core principle. They understand the importance of seamless coordination between various components in complex systems. By ensuring that all parts work harmoniously together, they create equipment that is not only efficient but also highly reliable. Integration extends to every aspect of their projects, from electrical and mechanical systems to software and control interfaces.

Conclusion

In summary, Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing Co. LLC exemplifies the pinnacle of precision engineering and manufacturing. Their mechanical and mechatronics engineers are at the forefront, listening to customers, ideating in CAD, and bringing concepts to life on the shop floor. 

The depth and breadth of their engineering staff and dedication to solving complex problems and continuous innovation set them apart in the industry.

Footnotes

With a keen focus on integration and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Maker’s Tool and Manufacturing (Maker’s T&M) consistently delivers top-tier solutions to their customers. As they continue to push the boundaries of technical innovation, their reputation as a leading player in precision engineering remains unassailable. 

To know more about the process, you should visit the websites of the concerned agencies.

[harleyjobs9]

FAQs about Harley Davidson Jobs: Your Questions Answered

I. Introduction to Harley Davidson Jobs

A. The Legacy of Harley Davidson When you think of motorcycles, one name immediately comes to mind - Harley Davidson. With a rich history dating back to 1903, Harley Davidson has become a legendary brand synonymous with freedom, open roads, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. The legacy of Harley Davidson is not just about motorcycles; it's about a lifestyle and a community of passionate riders.

B. Why Choose a Career with Harley Davidson? If you're a motorcycle enthusiast, choosing a career with Harley Davidson is like a dream come true. It allows you to combine your love for two wheels with a fulfilling and exciting job. Working for Harley Davidson isn't just about earning a paycheck; it's about being part of a worldwide community that shares your passion for riding.

C. Exploring the Harley Davidson Jobs Website To kickstart your journey into the world of Harley Davidson jobs, you need to explore their official websites. This website is your gateway to a range of career opportunities within the company. It provides all the information you need to start your application and learn more about the available job positions.

II. Harley Davidson Job Opportunities

A. Manufacturing and Assembly If you have a knack for mechanics and love working with your hands, the manufacturing and assembly roles at Harley Davidson might be perfect for you. These positions involve the assembly of the iconic Harley Davidson motorcycles. You get to be a part of the team responsible for crafting these incredible machines, ensuring they meet the highest quality standards.

B. Design and Engineering Harley Davidson is known not just for its powerful bikes but also for its innovative and eye-catching designs. If you have a creative mind and a passion for motorcycle design, working in the design and engineering department at Harley Davidson could be your ideal career. Join the brilliant minds behind these iconic motorcycles and contribute to their ongoing success.

C. Marketing and Sales If you have a flair for promotion and a talent for sales, you can explore the marketing and sales opportunities at Harley Davidson. These roles involve spreading the word about Harley Davidson's products and services, reaching out to potential customers, and creating a connection between the brand and the riders. You get to be part of the team responsible for bringing the thrill of Harley Davidson to enthusiasts all over the world.

D. Corporate Roles Harley Davidson is not just about motorcycles; it's a vast and diverse organization with various corporate roles. These roles cover everything from finance to IT, providing essential support to ensure the company runs smoothly. If you have expertise in any corporate function, Harley Davidson might have a role that suits your skills and interests.

E. Dealerships and Service Centers Harley Davidson has a vast network of dealerships and service centers worldwide. These places are where riders go for sales, service, and community. If you're passionate about motorcycles and want to work directly with customers, joining a dealership or service center team could be an excellent choice. It allows you to be at the forefront of the Harley Davidson experience, assisting customers, and helping them make their dream of riding a Harley a reality.

III. FAQs about Harley Davidson Jobs

A. QUES:-  How to Apply for Harley Davidson Jobs? ANSWER:- Applying for a career at Harley Davidson is straightforward. You can visit the official Harley Davidson Jobs website harleyjobs to explore current job openings. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Job Search: Start by browsing the available job listings. You can filter job openings based on location, department, and job type to find the positions that match your interests and skills.

Select a Job: Click on a job listing to view more details. Make sure to read the job description, qualifications, and responsibilities carefully to ensure it's a good fit for you.

Apply Online: If you find a job that suits your career goals, click the "Apply Now" button. You'll be prompted to create an account or log in if you already have one.

Submit Your Application: Complete the online application, including your resume and cover letter. Be sure to showcase your passion for motorcycles and why you want to join the Harley Davidson team.

Review and Confirm: Before final submission, review your application to ensure all information is accurate. Once you're satisfied, confirm your application.

Applying for a job at Harley Davidson is your first step toward a thrilling career in the motorcycle industry.

B. QUES:-  What Qualifications Are Needed? ANSWER:- Qualifications for Harley Davidson jobs vary depending on the specific role. While some positions may require specific degrees or certifications, the following qualifications are generally valuable:

Passion for Motorcycles: A genuine enthusiasm for motorcycles and the Harley Davidson brand is a common requirement. Being a rider or enthusiast is often appreciated.

Relevant Experience: Depending on the role, relevant work experience in a similar field can be essential. Whether it's engineering, sales, marketing, or other areas, having prior experience is valuable.

Education: Some roles may require specific degrees or certifications, such as engineering degrees for design positions or marketing degrees for marketing roles. Check the job listings for specific educational requirements.

Team Player: Harley Davidson fosters a collaborative work environment, so being a team player is highly valued.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in most positions, whether you're interacting with customers or working with colleagues.

C. QUES:-  What is the Work Environment Like? ANSWER:- Harley Davidson provides a dynamic and inclusive work environment that reflects the company's passion for motorcycles and camaraderie. Here are some aspects of the Harley Davidson work culture:

Passionate Community: Working at Harley Davidson means you'll be part of a community that shares your passion for motorcycles. This creates a unique and exciting atmosphere.

Innovation: The company encourages innovation and creativity. You'll have the opportunity to work on iconic motorcycle designs and marketing strategies.

Diversity and Inclusion: Harley Davidson is committed to diversity and inclusion. They value employees from different backgrounds and perspectives, creating an enriching work environment.

D. QUES:-  Benefits and Perks ANSWER:- Harley Davidson offers competitive benefits and perks to its employees. While the specific benefits may vary by location and position, some of the common perks include:

Competitive Compensation: Harley Davidson provides competitive salaries to its employees.

Health and Wellness: Employees have access to health and wellness programs, including medical, dental, and vision plans.

Employee Discounts: Enjoy discounts on Harley Davidson merchandise, parts, and accessories.

Professional Development: The company supports the professional growth of its employees through training and development programs.

401(k) and Retirement Plans: Harley Davidson provides retirement benefits to help you secure your future.

E. QUES:-  Advancement Opportunities ANSWER:- Harley Davidson values internal talent development, and there are ample opportunities for career growth within the company. As you gain experience and demonstrate your skills, you can explore higher positions and take on more significant responsibilities. The company often promotes from within, allowing you to build a long-lasting and fulfilling career in the motorcycle industry.

IV. Life at Harley Davidson

A. Company Culture Harley Davidson's company culture is deeply rooted in the love of riding and the camaraderie of the road. It's not just a job; it's a lifestyle. Employees often describe the culture as one where work doesn't feel like work because it aligns with their passion for motorcycles. The sense of belonging to a larger community of enthusiasts is what makes Harley Davidson a unique and exciting place to work.

B. Employee Testimonials To get a real sense of life at Harley Davidson, let's hear from some of the employees themselves. Their testimonials provide insights into the day-to-day experiences and the pride they take in being part of the Harley Davidson team.

C. The Harley Experience Working for Harley Davidson goes beyond a typical job; it's an experience that connects you to riders worldwide. It's a chance to be part of a legacy, to contribute to the creation of world-renowned motorcycles, and to share the road with fellow enthusiasts. The Harley Experience is not just a job; it's a thrilling adventure.

D. Harley Davidson's Commitment to Diversity Harley Davidson is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. They believe that a diverse workforce fosters creativity, innovation, and a broader perspective. By welcoming employees from all backgrounds and walks of life, the company creates an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

V. Harley Jobs – Beyond the Motorcycle

A. Explore the Harley Merchandise and Apparel Industry

At Harley Davidson, the passion for the brand extends far beyond motorcycles. One of the most exciting facets of working for Harley is the opportunity to dive into the world of merchandise and apparel. The official Harley Davidson merchandise is iconic, and it's a major part of the brand's identity.

If you have an eye for design, a love for fashion, or a talent for marketing, there's a place for you in this dynamic sector. Your role might involve creating and promoting clothing, accessories, and collectibles that showcase the Harley Davidson lifestyle. This industry is all about making sure that fans and riders can carry a piece of Harley with them everywhere they go.

Working in the merchandise and apparel division, you'll collaborate with a passionate team to develop new products, manage inventory, and create marketing strategies that resonate with the Harley Davidson community. Whether you're contributing to designing new styles, marketing campaigns, or managing retail stores, you're an essential part of connecting people to the Harley brand beyond just their motorcycles.

B. Events and Rallies

Harley Davidson is synonymous with the thrill of the open road, and a significant part of that excitement comes from the various events and rallies that the company sponsors or participates in. As an employee, you might find yourself involved in planning, organizing, or managing these gatherings.

From local bike nights to massive international rallies like Sturgis, Daytona Bike Week, and more, these events are a significant part of the Harley lifestyle. If you have event planning, marketing, or logistics skills, this is a field where you can make a substantial impact.

Your job might involve coordinating with riders, vendors, and local communities, ensuring that these events are unforgettable experiences. You'll witness firsthand the enthusiasm and camaraderie that the Harley Davidson community embodies. Working in events and rallies allows you to create memorable moments for fellow riders and fans while being part of an incredible worldwide network.

C. Licensing and Brand Management

Maintaining the integrity of the Harley Davidson brand is crucial to its continued success. As an employee in licensing and brand management, you'll play a pivotal role in safeguarding the brand's image and expanding its presence.

Harley Davidson has a vast array of licensed products and partnerships, from motorcycle gear to household items and more. If you have a knack for negotiating deals, ensuring brand consistency, and protecting intellectual property, this field is an exciting place to be.

Your responsibilities may involve managing licensing agreements, monitoring brand usage, and ensuring that products bearing the Harley Davidson name meet the brand's quality standards. It's a role that involves working with a diverse range of partners and protecting the legacy and reputation of Harley Davidson. As part of this team, you'll help the brand continue to thrive and grow while maintaining its authenticity.

VI. Your Journey to a Harley Career

A. Preparing for the Interview

Landing your dream job at Harley Davidson starts with a successful interview. Preparation is key. To impress your potential employers, research the company, its values, and its products. Show your passion for motorcycles and the Harley brand. Be ready to discuss your qualifications, skills, and how they align with the position you're applying for.

During the interview, emphasize your commitment to quality and the values that Harley Davidson represents. Highlight your ability to contribute to the unique culture of the company. Remember, Harley Davidson looks for candidates who share their passion for riding and their dedication to maintaining the brand's legacy.

B. Navigating the Application Process

The application process for Harley Davidson jobs is straightforward. Visit their official website harleyjobs and browse through the available job listings. Choose the position that matches your skills and career goals.

Follow the application instructions, which may include submitting your resume, cover letter, and any other requested documents. Pay close attention to application deadlines and requirements, ensuring that you provide all the necessary information.

If your application is successful, you'll be contacted for an interview. Be patient and stay positive throughout the process.

C. Tips for Success

Succeeding in your career at Harley Davidson requires dedication, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic. Here are some tips to help you thrive:

Embrace the Harley Davidson lifestyle and culture.

Collaborate and network with fellow employees.

Stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Show a strong commitment to quality and innovation.

Seek opportunities for professional growth within the company.

[othcrworlds]

the tired blonde was in the process of assembling a second cup of coffee when the knock at her door distracted her from adding the finishing touches. whilst she hadn’t exactly been expecting anyone, it wasn’t unusual to receive visitors at various hours of the day and evening, their reasons for stopping by a mixed bag. she abandoned her creamer by the coffee maker in exchange for answering the knock, her dark brows lifting with pleasant surprise to see mack standing on the other side. “ hi, ” she began, only to feel her expression drop upon clocking his demeanor. before she could even begin to address it, however, he was closing the space between them in a way she’d never experienced — or expected — him to do so. the kiss, quick as lightning, ending before she could even fully register it, let alone its implications. luckily, he spelled out the latter quite clearly. “i…” she began, unsure of where she was even heading with that starter. “i…do you — do you want to come in…?” she offered softly, body pivoting to the side so he could step into the coffee-scented space.

open starter for m/f/nb {iffy with males his new} 21+ plot: mack's had a crush on your muse and waited until right before the semester ends to say something, we can explore how they know each other

Although they were used to seeing each other at all odd hours of the day Mack knew right now wasn't the best. Most people, including himself, were preparing to leave campus for winter break. Yet he couldn't bring himself to leave without talking to them. "Hey sorry," he smiled nervously when they opened the door. Now that he was looking them in the eyes he couldn't bring himself to say what he had rehearsed on the way over here. Instead he felt a surge of boldness in the moment. "Fuck it," he sighed stepping closer reaching out to grab their face leaning in and kissing them softly. Quickly he pulled back enough to look them in the eyes. "I don't wanna be just your friend. I wanna be your friend you do romantic and maybe sexual things with. Maybe not a boyfriend, maybe a boyfriend? I don't really care as long as you want me too. If not I'll just walk away and we can pretend that kiss never happened."