#industrial magnetic equipment

[hsmagnet]

Principles And Applications of Electromagnetic Separator

Principles And Applications of Electromagnetic Separator The electromagnetic separator, also known as a magnetic separator, plays a crucial role in diverse industries and permeates our everyday experiences. Operating on the ingenious principle of magnetic separation, it efficiently segregates materials based on their magnetic properties. This overview provides insight into electromagnetic…

[incortechnicals]

MPI Consumables Suppliers in UAE

Discover top MPI (Magnetic Particle Inspection) consumables suppliers in the UAE, offering high-quality products essential for effective magnetic particle testing.

https://incorworld.com/product/wd-series-magnetic-coil/

[bangchansdirty-slut]

Hello, I can have a idol!Jake x idol male!reader who is gothic please author 🖤

My Gothic BF

•───⋅⋆⁺‧₊☽⛦☾₊‧⁺⋆⋅───•

Paring: Jake x Goth!Idol!Male Reader

Genre: Fluff w/ a lil intimacy

Requested

More: Masterlist

A/n: Sorry if this was short also requests are open

•───⋅⋆⁺‧₊☽⛦☾₊‧⁺⋆⋅───•

"Hey, M/n," Jake called out, his Australian accent carrying a warm, friendly lilt as he stepped into the dimly lit rehearsal room.

M/n looked up from the shadowy corner, where he had been tuning his electric guitar. The contrast between them was stark; Jake's bright smile against M/n's dark eye makeup and black clothing. The gothic idol couldn't help but feel a twinge of self-consciousness under the other's cheerful gaze. They were worlds apart in terms of image, yet their hearts had found a way to intertwine in the chaotic maze of the K-pop industry.

"Hi, Jake," M/n responded, their voice a soft rumble. He placed the guitar on its stand and walked over to the center of the room, the floorboards echoing with the heavy tread of his boots. The room was a mishmash of instruments and sound equipment, the air thick with the scent of sweat and the faint hint of vanilla from the candles M/n had brought to create a more comfortable atmosphere.

Jake's eyes lit up as he saw the candles. "You brought them again," he said with a smile, reaching out to touch one of the flickering flames. "They really do make this place feel more like home."

M/n nodded, his eyes following Jake's hand as it hovered over the candle. "Yeah, I thought it might help us both relax." He stepped closer, the gap between them closing like a magnet pulling them together. Their secret relationship was a delicate balance, a dance of stolen glances and coded messages amidst the whirlwind of their public personas.

Without a word, Jake leaned in, his lips brushing against M/n's in a gentle, tentative kiss. It was a silent question, an invitation that M/n readily accepted. The kiss grew deeper, more intense, as they lost themselves in the moment. The room around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth of their bodies and the rhythm of their breaths mingling together.

M/n's hands found their way to Jake's waist, pulling him closer. Jake's fingers threaded through M/n's hair, gently cradling his head as the kiss grew more passionate. They explored each other's mouths with a sweet urgency, as if afraid that the moment might shatter at any second. The candlelight flickered against their faces, casting dancing shadows across their features and painting their skin in a warm, intimate glow.

M/n's heart raced, thumping against his ribcage like a drum in a crescendo. He could feel Jake's pulse echoing his own, a rhythm that matched the beat of their shared secret. Their kisses grew deeper, more insistent, as if trying to convey everything they couldn't say out loud. It was a silent conversation, a declaration of feelings that went beyond the constraints of their public images.

Their tongues danced together, a soft, tender duet that grew bolder with every passing second. Jake's hand slid up M/n's back, tracing the contours of his muscles through the thin fabric of his graphic shirt. M/n shivered at the touch, his grip tightening around Jake's waist. The sound of their breaths grew louder in the quiet room, a symphony of desire that was music to their ears.

The door to the rehearsal room burst open, the harsh light from the hallway spilling in and interrupting their stolen moment. "Jake, you're going to suck the life out of M/n's face if you don't come practice," Jay teased, a playful smirk playing on his lips as he took in the sight of the two entwined figures.

Jake chuckled, pulling back slightly to look into M/n's eyes, which were now a darker shade of blue than the candlelit shadows. "Duty calls," he murmured, placing one last peck on M/n's lips. His voice was low, a secret promise that sent a thrill down M/n's spine. "I'll make it up to you tonight."

M/n's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, and he stepped back, trying to compose himself as the intrusion of reality snapped them out of their private world. Jay's playful banter hung in the air, bringing with it a tinge of embarrassment and the stark reminder of the boundaries they had to maintain.

"Yeah, yeah," Jake said with a good-natured laugh, swiping a hand through his hair to disguise his own blush. He shot a mischievous wink at M/n before turning to face Jay. "I'm coming, I'm coming," he called out, the smile never leaving his face as he sauntered over to his bandmate.

M/n watched him go, the sound of their laughter fading as the door clicked shut. He took a deep breath, inhaling the lingering scent of vanilla and the faint scent of Jake's cologne. The moment felt surreal, like a secret shared between two people who were never meant to find each other in the bright lights of the K-pop stage. But here they were, two idols with vastly different images, sharing a connection that was as fierce as it was hidden.

Part 2?

[theclaravoyant]

what if they fall ? but my darling what if they fly !

Ed can COOK and he finds manual labour comforting and healing as long as it’s sufficiently stimulating. He also appears to be GOOD at these things. He’s gonna be fulfilled AF.

Stede can bring a touch of charm and whimsy and grace to anything. Whether that’s plating food or omg can you imagine the copy that’s about to spout forth from a man who argued that literally half a stone archway broken down outside is rustic with great ventilation.

They’re very good at delegating and recognising each other’s strengths

They’re very good at creating a mutually supportive if slightly unconventional workplace culture, and people in the service industry will literally owe you a life debt if you their employer treat them like a human person on occasion. to quote our lord and saviour lucius spriggs the bar is on the ground

We *know* because canon showed us that Stede’s strengths make up for Ed’s gaps in terms of ability to tolerate knobheads perform customer service. Would also LOVE to see several montages of Tolerating Knobheads Practice.

The weird cottage industry side business magnet that short term small business accommodation tends to form - especially The Inn Formerly Known As Blackbeard's Bar And Grill And Other Delicacies And Delights And Fishing Equipment - gives them just ridONKulous opportunities for self discovery

--- I’m not saying I’ll cry if they get a horse and it has kind eyes but I definitely will , and it will also remind me of Stede and his daughter and reconnecting with good memories from back then. Maybe they just use it for supply runs, maybe they do pony rides for little kids. Maybe he used to think it was just a good excuse for alone time but does he actually ?? have hobbies?? Is he??? Discovering things about himself outside of both toxic extremes??

--- Ed sings. And plays the piano. Maybe it becomes part of the fare at the inn or maybe it’s just for him and Stede. Either way I’d like to see him pick up music again

--- Calypso II Electric Boogaloo, also can I get a regular drag bingo night in this establishment??

--- They try making soap. Shoutout to Rotorua soap

--- Recreation of That One Scene from Ghost?

--- We find out Stede can garden and he's as surprised as the rest of us to learn this.

[zooophagous]

Any interesting facts you can share about tattoo stuff?

When tattoo artists dilute their ink, they don't always just use water. Some artists will use a small amount of bactene or even witch hazel; but in "prison tattoo settings" the way to do it is to cut India Ink with listerine.

This hurts like hell because it's alcohol based but apparently creates a nice evenly mixed ink solution and cuts down on the instance of infection (protip: do not do this)

Also fun fact it used to be the case that tattoos prevented you from getting an MRI because of the concern of heavy metals in ink reacting to the magnet and causing burns.

Some states (like Oregon) require you to earn an actual two year degree from an accredited college to legally tattoo. Some states (like North Dakota) don't have a license requirement for individual artists at all.

The old fashioned method of tattooing has people soldering their own needles, and sterilizing equipment in an industrial autoclave (most modern tattoo artists currently working use disposable everything now) so there's considerable overlap in the training and skillset for tattooing, sterile processing and lab work.

[reasoningdaily]

Children still mining cobalt for gadget batteries in Congo

A CBS News investigation of child labor in cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo has revealed that tens of thousands of children are growing up without a childhood today – two years after a damning Amnesty report about human rights abuses in the cobalt trade was published. The Amnesty report first revealed that cobalt mined by children was ending up in products from prominent tech companies including Apple, Microsoft, Tesla and Samsung. 

There's such sensitivity around cobalt mining in the DRC that a CBS News team traveling there recently was stopped every few hundred feet while moving along dirt roads and seeing children digging for cobalt. From as young as 4 years old, children can pick cobalt out of a pile, and even those too young to work spend much of the day breathing in toxic fumes.

What's life like for kids mining cobalt for our gadgets?

So, what exactly is cobalt, and what are the health risks for those who work in the DRC's cobalt mining industry?

What is cobalt?

Cobalt – a naturally occurring element –  is a critical component in lithium-ion, rechargeable batteries. In recent years, the growing global market for portable electronic devices and rechargeable batteries has fueled demand for its extraction, Amnesty said in its 2016 report. In fact, many top electronic and electric vehicle companies need cobalt to help power their products.

The element is found in other products as well.

"Cobalt-containing products include corrosion and heat-resistant alloys, hard metal (cobalt-tungsten-carbide alloy), magnets, grinding and cutting tools, pigments, paints, colored glass, surgical implants, catalysts, batteries, and cobalt-coated metal (from electroplating)," says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

More than half of the world's supply of cobalt comes from the DRC, and 20 percent of that is mined by hand, according to Darton Commodities Ltd., a London-based research company that specializes in cobalt.  

Health risks of chronic exposure 

According to the CDC, "chronic exposure to cobalt-containing hard metal (dust or fume) can result in a serious lung disease called 'hard metal lung disease'" – a kind of pneumoconiosis, meaning a lung disease caused by inhaling dust particles. Inhalation of cobalt particles can cause respiratory sensitization, asthma, decreased pulmonary function and shortness of breath, the CDC says.

The health agency says skin contact is also a significant health concern "because dermal exposures to hard metal and cobalt salts can result in significant systemic uptake." 

"Sustained exposures can cause skin sensitization, which may result in eruptions of contact dermatitis," a red, itchy skin rash, the CDC says.

Despite the health risks, researchers with Amnesty International found that most cobalt miners in Congo lack basic protective equipment like face masks, work clothing and gloves. Many of the miners the organization spoke with for its 2016 report – 90 people in total who work, or worked, in the mines – complained of frequent coughing or lung problems. Cobalt mining's dangerous impact on workers and the environment

Some women complained about the physical nature of the work, with one describing hauling 110-pound sacks of cobalt ore. "We all have problems with our lungs, and pain all over our bodies," the woman said, according to Amnesty.

Moreover, miners said unsupported mining tunnels frequently give way, and that accidents are common.  

Miners know their work is dangerous, Todd C. Frankel wrote late last month in The Washington Post. 

"But what's less understood are the environmental health risks posed by the extensive mining," he reported. "Southern Congo holds not only vast deposits of cobalt and copper but also uranium. Scientists have recorded alarming radioactivity levels in some mining regions. Mining waste often pollutes rivers and drinking water. The dust from the pulverized rock is known to cause breathing problems. The mining industry's toxic fallout is only now being studied by researchers, mostly in Lubumbashi, the country's mining capital."

"These job are really desired"

Despite the dangers and risks of working as miners in the cobalt industry, at least of the some miners in the Congo "love their jobs," according to Frankel.

"When I talked to the miners there, none of them want to lose their jobs or give up their jobs. They love their jobs," Frankel said Tuesday, speaking on CBSN. "In a country like Congo, mining is one of the few decently paying jobs to be had there, and so they want to hold onto these jobs."

They also want fair treatment, decent pay, and some safety, "and they would love for their kids to not work in the mines," he said.

"It's a poverty problem," Frankel said. "These parents I talked to – they don't want their kids working in these mines. The problem is that their school fees – schools cost money, and you know, food costs money, and they sort of need their kids to work in there."

Poverty also drives children into the mines instead of school – an estimated 40,000 of them work in brutal conditions starting at very young ages.

The thousands of miners who work in tunnels searching for cobalt in the country "do it because they live in one of the poorest countries in the world, and cobalt is valuable," Frankel wrote in the Washington Post article.

"Not doing enough" 

CBS News spoke with some of the companies that use cobalt in their lithium-ion batteries. All of the companies acknowledged problems with the supply chain, but said they require suppliers to follow responsible sourcing guidelines. Apple, an industry leader in the fight for responsible sourcing, said walking away from the DRC "would do nothing to improve conditions for the people or the environment."

Read company responses here

Amnesty said in November, however, that "major electronics and electric vehicle companies are still not doing enough to stop human rights abuses entering their cobalt supply chains." 

"As demand for rechargeable batteries grows, companies have a responsibility to prove that they are not profiting from the misery of miners working in terrible conditions in the DRC," the organization said. "The energy solutions of the future must not be built on human rights abuses."

An estimated two-thirds of children in the region of the DRC that CBS News visited recently are not in school. They're working in mines instead. 

CBS News' Debora Patta spoke with an 11-year-old boy, Ziki Swaze, who has no idea how to read or write but is an expert in washing cobalt. Every evening, he returns home with a dollar or two to provide for his family.

"I have to go and work there," he told Patta, "because my grandma has a bad leg and she can't."

He said he dreams of going to school, but has always had to work instead.

"I feel very bad because I can see my friends going to school, and I am struggling," he said.

Amnesty says "it is widely recognized internationally that the involvement of children in mining constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour, which governments are required to prohibit and eliminate."

[captaincryolicious]

tattoo artist scaramouche

scaramouche/wanderer x gn!reader

summary ; you decide to finally get a tattoo, and it turns out that your tattoo artist is super pretty. though he is a little mean at first, you soon get to see through the cracks of his outer shell.

format ; oneshot, 2,6k

cw ; scara being a bit mean, kinda ooc scara, modern au, tattoo artist au, use of scara's real name (kunikuzushi)

zep's note ; i'm not entirely satisfied with this but yeah it's whatever i guess haha

content under the cut | masterlist

Your body was rigid with stress when you stepped inside, the soft jingle above the door making your arrival known – it was impossible to back out now without looking like an absolute fool in front of the artists employed by the tattoo shop you just walked into. Your tense fist clutched the strap of your bag tightly, your knuckles pale under the pressure. Up until a few minutes ago, you genuinely thought it was a good idea to get a tattoo. You had been confident, but it all diminished rapidly as soon as you had placed your hand on the door handle. Now you were hesitating, many doubts pestering your mind. 

Would it hurt?

Would you regret it, once it was done? 

Would it be awkward to have a stranger – albeit a tattoo artist – so close to you?

You fought to put those thoughts aside. They weren’t welcome in your consciousness right now. It was too late. anyway. You were inside, and the guy behind the counter just laid his eyes upon you. If you were to turn around and dash out of the shop, he would judge you so hard. No, you had to preserve your dignity. Besides, you really wanted that tattoo, regardless of what your doubts tried to tell you. You gathered all the smidges of bravery you could find and took somewhat confident strides until you stood in front of the counter. 

     “Good afternoon, how can I help you?” the blond guy asked. He offered you a friendly smile, which was a stark contrast with the harsh interior of the small shop. 

It was dark in the front of the shop, the only illumination coming from a few industrial light bulbs that gave off a warm yellow-ish hue. Only in the back burned a sharp, bright light that reflected on the red-and-black tiled floor. It was the part of the shop where several tattoo chairs stood lined up. You quickly averted your gaze, not quite ready to look at that area yet. Like a magnet, your eyes were pulled towards the walls. They were completely covered in countless drawings and designs, some simple and bold and others very intricate. Obviously, they were done by very skilled artists, and you looked at them in awe. The neatly folded piece of paper suddenly seemed to burn in your pocket; it was a small tattoo you drew by yourself. You were satisfied with the outcome, but now you couldn’t help but compare it to the pieces on the walls. You shook off the feeling, turning to face the guy behind the counter. 

     “Hello, I have a tattoo appointment scheduled at three,” you told him, mustering a smile in return. 

He checked something on the laptop that stood in front of him, his eyes reading over something on the screen before he hummed in affirmation. 

     “Alright, Kunizukushi is waiting for you,” he said, getting up from the tall stool and opening a small gate in the counter that would allow you to enter the back of the shop, where the tattoo chairs and equipment stood lined up. 

Some of the chairs were occupied, and most of the customers were talking nonchalantly with the artist who leaned over a part of their body with utter concentration. Only one of them, a young female, had her lips tightly pressed together in what seemed like pain, and you felt an even stronger pull of fear in your stomach. Still, you persevered, following the blonde guy as he guided you to a chair in the far back of the shop. There stood an empty chair waiting for you, and a guy – you assumed he would be the one tattooing you – sat with his back towards you as he prepared his gear. You only saw his deep purple hair, swaying softly with every movement he made on his stool. So that was the guy you had to trust, the guy you would allow to mark you with permanent ink. The blonde male wished you good luck and headed back to the counter, and you stood there awkwardly. 

     “Sit down,” the purple-haired artist commanded without turning around. 

You obliged, taking a seat in the large leather tattoo chair. Your body was rigid with stress, and you didn’t lay down. You weren’t ready for that yet. If any, you would procrastinate that very moment for as long as you could. Lying down meant that you were about to get inked and you had yet to wrap your mind around that. It was getting awfully real now but you didn’t quite realize the depth of the situation yet. You knew it – you were about to ink something into your skin permanently, which was quite a big deal – but it didn’t dawn upon yet. Blame it on the nerves, you thought. 

     “So, did you get tattooed before or is it a first for you?” the male inquired, taking the tattoo machine and finally whirling around on his spinning stool. His violet eyes found you, and the intensity of his gaze had you sucking in a breath. 

God, couldn’t they have given you a nicer-looking artist? He was undeniably pretty, with his sharp and fine features, but the scowl on his face made it look like he personally despised you. It made you shift awkwardly as you replied. 

     “It’s my first,” you admitted.

     “Alright, then let me get you through the basics,” he said, sounding bored already. He started talking, not taking his eyes off you as he explained to you everything that you needed to know before getting your first tattoo. His words made your head spin in fear and confusion, especially when he spoke about matters such as needles, permanent ink, and the most feared but also most inevitable one; ‘it’ll hurt’. What had you gotten yourself into? Was it too late to back out?

     “Do you have a design in mind?” the artist asked. Yep, it was too late.

Nodding, you took the crumpled piece of paper from your pocket. It used to be folded neatly, but not much was left from the clean and sharp lines across the drawing. Instead, the paper was laced with tiny wrinkles. A little ashamed, you handed it to the artist, hoping that the messy folds wouldn’t ruin the design you worked so hard on.

     “Hm,” he hummed, taking the piece of paper from your hand. “Decent. Who drew this?” 

     “I did,” you replied. 

As expected, he didn’t reply to that. He kept himself busy with preparing his tools, and you tried your best not to be too intimidated by the ink gun in his gloved hands. That proved itself to be quite a challenge, though, for everything inside this tattoo shop managed to intimidate you – maybe most of all the artist who was about to mark you with permanent ink. There was something about him that reminded you of a thunderstorm; beautiful but terrifying. It was a little scary that you had to put your faith in him. 

     “Where do you want your tattoo?” he questioned.

     “Here,” you replied, pointing at an exposed part of your skin. 

     “Right,” the artist muttered. “Let me prepare the stencil.” 

He sat hunched over a small desk next to the leather chair, and you heard the sound of a pen scraping over paper. It was only a small tattoo that you wanted, so he didn’t take too long and you waited patiently in your seat. Way sooner than you expected him to, he turned around to face you again and showed you the stencil that contained your tattoo design. You had to blink a couple of times as you looked at it, and you had to keep your jaw from dropping.  It was a little different from what you originally drew; you could see he added his personal touch to it and it looked amazing. Right, it was time to take back your earlier thoughts. Suddenly, you were glad this guy was tattooing you, since he turned your already pretty design into something gorgeous. 

     “That’s… beautiful,” you said in awe. “I love it.” 

     “Good,” came the curt reply. “Lay down so I can begin.” His eyes rested solely on you, and you stiffly followed his request. You felt so uncomfortable and vulnerable as you lay in the leather chair, especially when the artist – Kunikuzushi was his name, right? – hovered over you. “Ready?” 

     “Y-Yes,” you brought out, while in fact, the answer was no.

     “You’re cowering,” the male pointed out, not a trace of sympathy. “Quit shaking or it’ll ruin your tattoo.” 

Two things could happen; his snarky comment could either send you right into a fit of nerves and make you chicken out or it could spur you on to toughen up and get yourself the tattoo you’ve wanted for so long. The former would’ve happened, if it wasn’t for Kunikuzushi’s hand landing on your arm and giving a gentle squeeze. Was it meant as a way of comforting you? You slightly tilted your head to look him in his eyes, but his violet gaze gave away absolutely nothing. He was still wearing his perpetual frown, but you were one hundred percent sure that he just attempted to help you relax a little. It sparked some newfound courage within you, and you shifted a little in the leather chair. 

     “Okay, bring it on,” you said, feeling a little more confident. 

     “That’s more like it,” the artist uttered, and a satisfied smile ghosted over his lips before it vanished again. 

And then he got to work. First, he rubbed some jelly on your skin where you wanted your tattoo, before he placed the stencil over it. 

     “Are you sure this is where you want your tattoo?” he asked. “Last chance to change it.” 

     “Yes, I’m sure,” you finalized. 

With a single flick of his finger, the tattoo gun in his hand came to life. You sucked in a deep breath in a last attempt to calm yourself before he placed the needle against your skin and began working on your tattoo. You squirmed upon the alien sensation on your skin, the unpleasant sting of the ink needle quite painful. With a slight push against your shoulder, Kunikuzushi got you to lay still again. For a few minutes, you focused on your breathing and the monotone buzz of the ink gun, allowing yourself some time to get used to the feeling. 

     “Relax,” the artist muttered, lightly touching your arm. “No one has ever died in my chair and you won’t be the first one.” 

You nodded, forcing yourself to take one deep breath and let go of the tension you held in your body. You couldn’t get yourself to look at the needle working its way into your skin over and over again, and your gaze landed on Kunikuzushi instead. His violet eyes were narrowed with utter concentration, and his face was no longer contorted into a scowl. You could tell he probably really liked his job as a tattoo artist, despite seeming so moody earlier. As pretty as he was, even with that permanent scowl pretty, you were delighted to see him with a more relaxed expression. Honestly, his features were a work of art just as much as the tattoos he so skillfully created. 

It actually went pretty well; you were enduring it better than you thought you would, and Kunikuzushi could proceed swiftly without having to remind you to lay still ever again. The sensation of pain subdued to a point where it was bearable and fairly easy to ignore, and you found yourself staring at the ceiling without being bothered too much by the entire process. From TV, you knew that tattoo artists often engaged in light-hearted conversations with their customers, but the violet-haired male kept quiet the entire time. You guessed he just preferred to work in silence, and you found yourself not minding all that much. 

     “You’re actually doing well,” Kunikuzushi remarked, mockingly surprised as he patted your shoulder. “I’m almost finished.” 

Staying true to his word, he worked on the finishing touches of your tattoo sooner rather than later, and then he leaned back and turned off the tattoo gun. It was eerily silent without the constant buzz resonating through the air, and it felt a little awkward as no one spoke up for a good minute or so. Then, finally, Kunikuzushi reached out for a small mirror behind him and held it up in front of you. 

     “It’s done,” he said, stating the obvious. “What do you think?” 

You stared at his creation in awe, watching how it blossomed on your skin. It was beautiful, even exceeding the sketch he made beforehand. Intricate black lines curled over your skin, adorned with the faintest traces of subtle coloring. It was a work of art he had created on your being, and you couldn’t help the wide smile that crossed your features.

     “It’s absolutely stunning,” you gushed, looking at the artist excitedly. “You’re amazing!” 

It was supposed to be merely a thought, but you accidentally spoke those words aloud. Your eyes widened as soon as you realized your small error, but it was already too late. You saw the corners of Kunikuzushi’s lips curl up in a smug grin that was only barely there. But you saw it so clearly, before he turned away to hide it from your view. When he faced you again, the smile was gone.

     “Stay still as I disinfect the place. It might sting,” he warned, dabbing at the tattoo using a sterile gauze soaked in disinfectant. It did sting a little, but it was nothing compared to the needle that had penetrated your skin a few thousand times a moment earlier. You could handle it. 

When he was done cleaning the tattoo, he covered it up neatly using even more sterile gauzes and bandages. Then he finally gestured for you to get up, and you were relieved to do so. It wasn’t that the leather chair was uncomfortable in the slightest, but staying still for too long wasn’t exactly your forte and you were happy to get up. You swung your legs over the side of the chair and rose to your feet. 

     “The guy behind the counter will handle the paperwork and payment, and he will explain to you how to take care of your new tattoo,” Kunikuzushi stated, his face back to his usual grimace. But his eyes softened a little as he added, “I’d like to see you again in a week, if that’s okay with you. I want to check up on your tattoo personally.” 

     “That’s fine by me,” you reacted, wondering what he meant by putting emphasis on personally. Did he usually not do that with his customers? What did that even mean? You let your thoughts run over the matter for a moment, but couldn’t come up with anything that made sense to you. You’d just meet him in a week and see what happened. 

What an interesting guy Kunikuzushi was. A little mean on his outer shell, but sometimes glimpses of something nicer would filter through. You weren’t too sure about having him as your tattoo artist at first, but by now you were happy that it had been him. He was pretty, he was talented, and he intrigued you to no end. 

Who knew? Maybe you’d get another tattoo soon… 

[acceptccnow]

High-Risk Payment Processing: Strategies for a Thriving Credit Repair Business

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | Accept-Credit-Cards-Now.com

In the ever-shifting landscape of financial services, the voyage of credit repair businesses encounters unique challenges, particularly in the realm of payment processing. As e-commerce ascends and the demand for credit repair services burgeons, the quest for effective high-risk payment processing solutions takes center stage. Whether at the helm of credit repair or navigating the intricate waters of CBD products, the acceptance of credit card payments emerges as a compass pointing to success. This article plunges into the intricacies of high-risk payment processing, unraveling strategies that not only foster flourishing enterprises but also position them as pioneers in their industry.

DOWNLOAD THE HIGH-RISK PAYMENT PROCESSING INFOGRAPHIC HERE

The Magnetic Pull of Credit Card Acceptance

Beyond mere convenience, the magnetic pull of credit card acceptance resonates profoundly in today's business milieu. It is not merely about transactional ease; it's about broadening horizons and amplifying revenue streams. By embracing credit card payments, be it in the arena of credit repair or CBD enterprises, businesses swing open gates to a more extensive clientele. Customers, valuing the versatility and security offered by credit and debit cards, find it simpler to engage with services providing this option, translating into heightened conversion rates and the organic growth of businesses.

High-Risk Merchant Processing: A Strategic Alliance

In sectors like credit repair and CBD trade, where the "high-risk" tag is commonplace, perceiving it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle becomes paramount. It's not merely a label but a gateway to markets teeming with potential. To navigate this successfully, forging alliances with reliable high-risk merchant processing providers emerges as a strategic imperative. These specialized processors comprehend the unique challenges faced and deliver tailored solutions to suit the specific needs of credit repair businesses and CBD merchants.

E-commerce Payment Processing: Transformative Paradigms

The realm of e-commerce payment processing emerges as a transformative force for credit repair businesses. It not only facilitates secure online payments but also equips businesses with tools to efficiently manage transactions. The article underscores the significance of e-commerce payment processing, shedding light on its pivotal role and emphasizing the need for specialized payment gateways attuned to the intricacies of the credit repair industry.

The Strategic Leverage of Credit Repair Payment Gateways

A credit repair payment gateway stands as the linchpin for online business operations, ensuring seamless connections between customers and services while safeguarding their financial data. The article advocates for the careful selection of payment gateways aligned with business goals, ensuring a frictionless checkout process, reduced cart abandonment rates, and an augmented revenue stream. Features like one-click payments and compatibility with various credit and debit cards take center stage in enhancing the user experience.

The Tactical Significance of CBD Merchant Accounts

For CBD merchants, the possession of a dedicated CBD merchant account emerges as a strategic imperative. The association of the CBD industry with cannabis places it within the high-risk category. However, with the burgeoning acceptance of CBD products, the market presents rapid expansion. The article delves into the significance of a dedicated CBD merchant account, emphasizing its role in enabling businesses to offer customers the convenience of credit card payments and contributing to overall business growth.

The Ever-Present Ally: Online Payment Gateways

In a digital age where business operations transcend time zones, an online payment gateway becomes the perpetual ally, processing payments even when physical stores shutter for the day. The perpetual availability not only broadens revenue potential but also elevates customer satisfaction. The global reach facilitated by online payment gateways extends business access to customers worldwide, free from geographical constraints.

The Pulsating Core: Credit Card Processing Systems

In the intricate dance of credit repair or CBD ventures, the pulsating core lies in a reliable credit card processing system. This system serves as the nucleus, ensuring secure and swift transactional processes. The article advocates for investments in robust credit card processing systems, emphasizing the need for real-time transaction monitoring and fraud prevention features. The assurance of secure transactions emerges as priceless for both businesses and customers.

The Guardian Shield: High-Risk Merchant Accounts

In the arena of high-risk businesses, a high-risk merchant account stands as the guardian shield, offering protection against potential challenges. This shield provides access to payment processing solutions tailored to the industry's needs. With the right high-risk merchant account, businesses can navigate the labyrinth of high-risk payment processing with unwavering confidence.

Embracing High-Risk Payment Processing for Triumph

Embracing high-risk payment processing is not merely a choice but a necessity for credit repair businesses and CBD merchants. The article underscores the empowerment derived from accepting credit cards, enabling businesses to thrive and grow. The advocacy for partnerships with reliable merchant processing providers and the utilization of secure payment gateways crystallizes into a seamless and secure transaction experience for customers.

In a dynamic business landscape, adaptability emerges as the keystone. The high-risk label should not be viewed as a deterrent but as an opportunity to shine in the industry. The article encourages investments in robust credit card processing systems and dedicated high-risk merchant accounts to safeguard businesses and propel them toward success.

In the contemporary digital epoch, where convenience and security reign supreme, accepting credit cards for credit repair and CBD products paves the path to prosperity. The article urges businesses to embrace the power of high-risk payment processing, positioning themselves for success and a brighter future. It's an invitation to say yes to new heights.

[tiredkershyff]

Birds of Feather

DC x TWST

Summary: Tim Drake is a trouble magnet, everyone knew it. Well, it was time for new problems!

on ao3 Chapter 1: I've been feeling lightheaded since I lost enough weight to fit back in my skin Chapter characters: Tim Drake, Grim the Greatest, Dire Crowley Warnings in tags

‎

Ah… My dear beloved,

my noble and beautiful flower of evil,

You are the fairest in the land.

──Mirror, mirror on the wall,

who is the most…

‎

Tim was a bit dizzy, thought tumbling one over each other, trying to make him come to senses. The words, those words were ringing in his head, and they were concerning. What in Snow White was this? Part of him wanted to point at the particular creep known as Ra’s Al Ghul. He would definitely call Tim ‘dearly beloved’. And ‘the flower of evil’? Another speech about ‘come to the dark side, we have cookies’? No, thank you. (God, he is really getting under my skin)

But put away such thoughts, he needed to deal with the situation on hand: WHERE THE HELL IS HE!?

Okay, he was incased in some type of box, the size is just enough to let him a little room to wiggle. It was not a wooden crate for sure, that was obvious from touching it. It was a solid hard material that definitely held some weight in it, smooth and cold to touch, so it was probably some polished stone. It was hard to say what exactly it was, Tim couldn’t see anything, but it might be marble or something similar. 

Tim pushed walls, to see which would move, and only the first one responded to his action. For now Tim decided to let it stay closed. He needed to assess the current situation, his state and equipment. It would be stupid to rush right away without giving it at least some thought, it looked like he might have some time for it. 

Although he better not to spend too much time. The front lid was heavy enough and didn’t allow any airflow if it was untouched, so the situation with oxygen was a bit difficult. Yeah, Tim could open the lid a little bit, but who knew if it would catch someone’s attention or not. So no sneaking some oxygen inside. So he had some time to think, but the time was not unlimited. 

The first question was, why was he here? The second one was where was he? And the third one when was he? His mind was so confused, so who knew for how long he was held there, plus the time-space shenanigans happen so it was always worth considering it.

So, the first one. Why? Tim could remember clatter of hooves, horses neighing, wheels creaking, rolling on the stony road. Those memories were blurry, but he was able to piece it all together. So, it was most likely some type of carriage. That was a bit of an archaic way to kidnap someone. They also keep him in a fancy box, judging by the material. Could it be the Court of Owls? Those assholes are pretentious enough to do this. But still, it was a questionable choice. 

Tim examined himself, to find more clues. The wig on his head, the heels on his feet, it already was a give-away that he was in a Caroline Hill disguise (unless they for some reason decided to dress him up like a girl). The texture of the wig was familiar enough to think it was Caroline’s, he spent a hefty amount of money on the new one, so it would look completely genuine and wouldn’t be itchy. Light touches on his face also confirmed the makeup on his face. Small prosthetic chest and hip padding were the final confirmation of his theory. (I’m glad I don’t have those big boobs like first time, those are much better)

That led him to some thoughts about other reasons on why he could be kidnapped. It was less likely that it was because he was TDW or RR. Were they targeting Caroline in particular? Or someone in the medical industry? Or were they targeting women in particular? Tim doubted someone would uncover his disguise and target him because of it. 

He also was wearing some type of long attire made out of some smooth material, cold to touch, reminding him of silk. That… led to interesting thoughts. It felt like those were some ceremony robes and he was going to be sacrificed by some cult. Probably just his paranoid mind whispering those ideas. But Tim hated how probable this scenario was. (Or maybe it’s some weird-ass ritual from Ra’s)

He didn’t have his utility belt, not like Caroline had it. He did, however, have some cards in his sleeves. Or, well, birdarang and batarangs. It was hard to actually pull them to properly touch them to understand which properties they had. He didn’t have space to put them back. So he slid just one down in his hand. It was an electric one. (Okay, that’s a good one. I wish I had my disks though)

By the look of it, he would need to adapt on the spot and use his surroundings after all. 

Now, to the where question. The probable kidnappers were: Ra’s, Owls, some weird cultists and a percentage for other people (who wanted to have fun, who targeted a specific group, who chose on random, to either kill, torture, sell and a lot of other fun activities). That was… A lot of variables to consider. 

Whatever it was, he would need to decide to be RR or CH in this situation. 

At least the assessment showed that he didn’t have a concussion or even bruises, which meant they were gentle with him. It excluded some minor options. Or, they beat him to near death and the small amount of Lazarus Waters he had kicked in. Though, it would heal only the immediate fatal injury if he was on a ley-line. And then it would have a cool-down, like it was some fucking game. So, they probably were gentle. 

His thoughts were interrupted by a commotion outside. Someone was trying to open the lid, and obviously struggled with it. So it wasn’t someone who kidnapped him, they would have a way to open it without any trouble. So it was someone unfamiliar with it, and, presumably, weak too. Did they want to help? Or cause harm? In any case, Tim gripped his birdarang a tid bit stronger.

He heard a high-pitched voice talking about people coming soon. So they were a third party. And they were talking about getting a uniform. So they presumably needed Tim’s attire. An interesting choice of voice for this cloak. 

Tim decided to open the lid. Judging by the information the person outside said, people were coming soon, and those are definitely his abductors they were talking about. Not good. But it meant right now was the prime chance for an escape, there was only one person outside currently. 

And as he did that, the person said that they were going to use their secret move. So when Tim peeked outside, he was met with a circle of blue fire. He hoped it was a trick that made it blue, because actual blue fire was the hottest. 

As Tim was readying to use his weapon, he saw who was causing all this ruckus. A cat. A goddamn flying cat. (Was it like Teekl?)

“Kyaaa! Why are you up?! And what a girl is doing here?!” It screeched, it looked scared. 

So this gives him some new information. Firstly, apparently he wasn’t supposed to be awake. If he was drugged, that meant his training helped. He wasn’t sure what made him wake up earlier if the cause was different. The second piece of information was the surprise of seeing a girl. So he was less likely to be kidnapped for appearing female. This place was not meant to be for women. If the cat needed a uniform, maybe to blend in or for other personal use in a non-female place, he could be male-presenting. 

While doing the mental gymnastics, Tim gave a quick look-over of this place, his theories about it being a cult resurfaced again. The room was dark, not fully lit. The first thing that he noticed were floating coffins with some ornaments and glowing round stones in the middle. The windows had metal ornaments in the best Gotham traditions. And the chandelier was made out of a clutter of chains with glowing purple stones. But what made his breath hitch and his body freeze was the fountain with a green liquid. It was more goo-y and paler in color, but… The place had an incredible Gotham atmosphere and they used to have some pits with Lazarus Waters. Who knew what could’ve happened with them in the shit-hole that Gotham was with her hazardous water. On top of the fountain was a floating mirror.

So it was a cult. It didn’t look like League, they would use different aesthetics. The placement of coffins indicated it was not the Court, they would do it differently. But Gotham had enough cults on its own. 

At least he knows the where question. Not fully, but even this was helpful. 

The cat was not happy with Tim ignoring Grim the Greatest. (Grim? Like Grim Reaper? Maybe he needs the uniform in hopes of getting into this cult?)

The cat also made a cute attempt to attack him, but Tim easily dodged it, ducking and making a quick escape to one of the exits he noted earlier. The creature was not fast enough to catch up to him, so Tim managed to outran him and discovered himself in the library. He perched on top of one of the bookshelves, the dark cloak worked perfectly with concealing himself in shadows. Plus, this place was poorly lit. 

“Uuugh, you, puny human! I will find you and you’re gonna regret crossing the Great Grim!” the cat exclaimed, getting all worked out. (suure)

Tim was spinning the birdarang in his hand, looking over the library, noting the path through the bookshelves and possible exits. The creature was going to set the place ablaze and Tim started thinking about giving him a mild shock, but was interrupted by the sound of a whip, hitting Grim. (Is it hypocritical of me calling it too much? I was going to electrocute him… Yeah, it’s hypocritical. Still going to call it too much and shame this guy at least in my head)

“This is not a mere rope, but the Whip of Love!” the man exclaimed. A man that looked like someone who could pass as one of the Gotham crazies. If he had a PhD then he would definitely count as their Rogue. Really, most of them had PhDs. Bruce forbade them from becoming Doctors so they wouldn’t become part of the Rouge gallery. Jokes on him, Tim already worked with Catwoman when he was a kid, and now was wanted by InterPol. Although, B didn’t appreciate Tim dropping out of the high school and refusing to go back citing the no PhD rule. 

Also. (Did he just call it the Whip of Love?! What in the name of BDSM is happening right now?!) 

“And you!” the Crow man exclaimed, looking directly at Tim, which made him instantly wary. This immediately placed this bird into a dangerous category for noticing him so easily. “Ah, one of the new students…” he said in a calmer tone.

A student. A fucking student. (THIS IS SCHOOL?!) he screamed in his mind. With that the second thought followed: (He uses this BDSM whip at school???)

So the cat meant school uniform… It was an all-boys school? There were no such schools that looked like that in Gotham. Although the cult theory still worked, some of them worked like that. People wouldn’t immediately realize it’s a cult, and they either realize it when it’s too late or they get brainwashed. Well, he will need to investigate it from the inside. The second time he did that. But… This place had a lot of floating stuff, the cat was obviously magical. And there was a big chance the school either abducted or lured people with magic, and Tim didn’t have an ounce of that. Meaning he would have to pass it on to Zatanna and would help with it in some other way.  

“I finally found you. You shouldn’t have left the Gate on your own!” the Crow furry exclaimed. The Gate… Did he mean those coffins? Why Gate though? (Gates to Hell, Gates to Heaven… Some cults love religious themes. Huh, they could actually use religious guilt and promise to ‘cure’ those kids, while binding them to their use) 

Again, those were just wild theories that always ran through his mind. Most of them were just theories passing by, with a very low chance of being true. But he was also proved multiple times that even those low probable theories were true. Also, Bernard just amplified this urge to make crazy theories at every moment. 

He will roll with the student role right now to learn as much as he could, until the matter of him having no magic will present itself. Then he would see how the situation would unfold to decide how he would have to leave.

Meanwhile the crow man started talking about his familiar breaking rules, how it was so rebellious… Nope, he’s not rolling with this one. Nuh-uh. 

This cat would ruin everything with his attitude alone. And, as Tim predicted, Grim immediately protested. Crow ignored him.

“Now, come out,” the man asked him. (I’m bi. Ah, wait, that’s not what he meant)

Tim gracefully landed in front of the staff member, removing the hood to see the reaction on him looking female-presenting. 

“A girl? What? Or..?” The Crow was confused. 

The ‘or’ indicated on him thinking Tim was trans. But what way? Did they think Tim was a trans guy who either didn’t transition yet or decided to look like that for another reason? That would be progressive. Or did he think Tim was a trans girl, but because he was AMAB he was here? That would be… No. But what about intersexes? Crossdressers? Enbys? Ah, so many questions. “We will deal with it after the ceremony,” Crow shook his head. God. No, it was a 100% cult, Tim will stop thinking otherwise. He didn’t need to hurt his brain even further worrying with thoughts if it was or was not a cult. 

Although, it was in a way helpful. Who knows how they would react to him having no magic. Maybe he would cite him being a girl to dip? Part of him wanted to do a Valley Girl accent, but instead decided on a British accent, the strong one like Alfred had. He lived with that man for a few years, he even adopted a few words. Although, it wasn’t like Bruce had it. Half of his vocabulary was British words and he often slipped to that accent when he was tired or didn’t care much. Dick had it to some degree and so did Jason. Though, when tired Dick would slide into a Romani accent and Jason into the Crime Alley talk. Tim, however, would descend into a French accent in most of the cases. When he was a kid he would even use French words from time to time, the result of being raised bilingual (though, there were Korean words from time to time, but not enough to make him trilingual). It was most noticeable when he was way too dizzy, hadn’t slept for days or was under a lot of anesthesia or a lot of pain meds. Fun times. 

“I doubt I am a student here, there must be a mistake,” he started. “I don’t even remember how I got here,” he made a bait for an answer. This time the furry guy actually listened to him!

“There’s no mistake! You got here through the Gate, after all. Although, you are quite eager, aren’t you? Leaving the gate before the ceremony… Ah, the ceremony! It probably is well under the way. Let’s head to the Mirror Chamber!” The man was so full of joy. Disgusting. Tim already didn’t like the guy. 

They went to the ‘Mirror chamber’, probably that place with coffins, seeing how it had a floating mirror there. 

“This little buddy blew the lid off. And I don’t remember going through any ‘Gate’”, Tim huffed. 

“Your familiar is your responsibility,” Crow man said and Tim scoffed at it. “And any student who wishes to attend this Academy must go through the Gate’s door,” answered the furry. “Normally the students wake up only after the door is opened with a special key…” he continued. Tim decided to interrupt it. 

“Well, then why wasn't mine closed? There was no key-hole too,” Tim noted. 

“That’s weird,” the crow man frowned and said it mostly to himself.

Tim’s bird brain immediately went to playing a meme in his head. (That’s weird. That’s suspicious)

“Anyway!” energetically said the staff member. “The open ceremony is about to end. Let’s haste!” ushered the crow.

“I don’t understand where I am, or who you even are!” Tim said in a bit demanding tone. Not a loud one, more on a scolding side. Though, British itself could sound like that no matter what you say if you want to. 

"Oh my, are you still dazed? It appears that teleportation magic has left you disoriented," the bird dude, the bird fella, the guy in a mask said.

(Magic. He said the magic 'magic' word. And so I was teleported here, huh)

"Well, it's alright. It happens pretty often!" The staff member explained.

(NO IT'S NOT ALRIGHT YOU MORON)

"I shall explain everything to you. Ahh, my kindness is boundless!" The bird serenaded to himself. (Oh god, he is a broken reflection of those people on Galas, who donate money and praise themselves for it endlessly)

As they went to the courtyard, the bird man continued: “And I am Dire Crowley, the Headmage appointed by the chairman to take care of this place.” (Crowley? Could’ve figured this much. And Dire? Well, that’s certainly the way. He would fit in Gotham so well), "This is Night Raven College, the most prestigious academy of Twisted Wonderland for those who are blessed with a rare aptitude for magic," and whoo bay was it a big can of worms to open.

So he was right about magic, and about them abducting people with it. Because, yeah, magic was still rare, but they made a school for it. That was a front for a cult and didn't even try to hide it. Although, the atmosphere could be mysterious on purpose, to appease kids. Plus, none of the magic users he knew mentioned something like that. And they would, seeing how it looked so Gotham, just to tease about their gothic brand. 

And, Twisted Wonderland? What in Lewis Carrol did he mean? 

"I don't–" Tim got his confirmation. So it's better to confront that man about Tim having no magic now, instead of in the middle of the ceremony. And of course he was interrupted.

"Only those who the Dark Mirror perceives as talented in magic are admitted to the Academy. Those are summoned by Gates which could appear anywhere," the crow man kept feeding him information without any thought.

So, it could appear anywhere. Such an easy way to kidnap. Could spin the story about them being so talented, that they were the 'chosen one' to study here. And why was he transported without his equipment then? Did it just drop right where he was standing before being abducted? That could be bad. 

"Anywhere? Then why–" started Tim, only to be interrupted again. A bit more and he was going to go full on Janet Drake on him.

“An Ebony Carriage carrying a Gate should have come meet you”

(Ebony? Ebony Dark'ness Dementia…Focus!)

“I don’t recall such thing,'' managed Tim to say something. 

“Huh? Seems like you had a bit of a bad reaction to the transportation…” murmured Crowley more to himself then to him. “Anyway! Let’s go to the entrance ceremony!” (god this man is awkward…)

Grim was trying to say something, but no one cared enough to listen to him. 

When they came closer to the ‘chamber’, they heard people talking about Headmage. Huh, looks like students weren’t thinking much about him as well.

But then all looks were on him, as Crowley asked him to go to the mirror. Tim tried to argue, but Crowley really wasn’t listening. That's bad.

“Wait, a girl?”

“What girl is doing here?”

“Maybe that’s…”

“State your name” said the ominous mirror, floating on top of /not/ Lazarus Waters. Tim tried to look as confident as he could. It really was time for Janet Drake.

“Caroline Hill” he said with some dominance in his tone.

“Your real name, boy” (Aw, there goes my cover)

––––

“Wait, what?”

“So… it’s a dude?”

“For real?”

“Since when is the mirror transphobic?”

“It wasn’t before…”

After some pause Tim tsked in the manner some socialists did. Or Damian. It was bad, because explaining later why TDW was here? But it looked like there was nothing he could do, not with all those people around, who all presumably had magic. Too many and he wasn't prepared enough.

“It’s Timothy Drake-Wayne, mirror,” he said, proud of his name.

“Hmm, the shape of your soul… is tarnished and unknown to me”

(Tarnished, you say…)

.

.

.

(sounds about right)

[justarandomreaderxoxo]

CHAPTER 3: INTRICATE SHADOWS

Tony Stark x daughter!reader

Pronouns: She/Her

Age: 18

Warning: Kidnapping

Summary: When Tony escapes terrorists and makes it back home, Y/N, the curious soul that she is, doesn't understand how her father got kidnapped in first place. So what happens when she digs into it?

A/N: Story is set just after tony makes announcement at the press conference. Enjoy

Word count: 1457

In the aftermath of the announcement, Y/N felt a magnetic pull toward the heart of the mystery that had unfolded within Stark Industries. The air in her dimly lit study was charged with determination as she surrounded herself with an arsenal of holographic displays, each revealing a different facet of the puzzle.

The room became a sanctuary of relentless inquiry, the soft glow of the screens casting intricate shadows on Y/N's face as she delved into the labyrinth of Stark Industries' internal workings. Her fingers danced across holographic interfaces, chasing virtual trails and encrypted data that seemed to lead to nowhere and everywhere simultaneously.

The night unfolded its layers, and as the city beyond her window plunged into darkness, Y/N's relentless pursuit of truth carried her into the early hours of the morning. The quiet hum of her high-tech equipment became the soundtrack to her solitary mission.

Every encrypted file, every line of code, and every digital breadcrumb Y/N followed painted a disturbing picture. Stark Industries, a fortress of innovation and security, had been infiltrated from within. Tony's security protocols, considered impenetrable, had been compromised.

In the virtual world, Y/N navigated through hidden servers and encrypted databases, uncovering the tendrils of a betrayal that went deeper than she could have anticipated. It wasn't just about the shift in Stark Industries' direction; it was about a sinister plot orchestrated by the one person she least expected – Obadiah Stane, the trusted mentor.

Y/N, now more than ever, embraced her role not just as Tony Stark's daughter but as a guardian of the family legacy. Her intelligence and resilience became integral to the rebuilding process, forging a path toward a future untainted by the shadows of the past.

Yet, amidst the progress, a lingering question haunted Y/N's thoughts – how had Stane managed to infiltrate their world so insidiously? The pursuit of this answer led her into the labyrinth of Stark Industries' security protocols and the hidden recesses of its digital infrastructure.

Late into the night, Y/N delved into the labyrinth, determined to unravel the intricacies of Stane's machinations. The holographic displays flickered with data, each line of code a potential revelation. As the hours passed, patterns emerged – a digital dance of deceit that echoed Stane's real-world betrayal.

The investigation took Y/N deeper into the archives of Stark Industries, leading her to discover vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the security systems. It was a painful realization that the very mechanisms designed to safeguard the legacy had been exploited from within.

The breakthrough in Y/N's investigation came in the form of a hidden file – a digital breadcrumb that led to the heart of Stane's betrayal. It detailed a series of covert operations, financial transactions, and the manipulation of security protocols that had allowed Stane to operate unchecked for years.

As the evidence unfolded, Y/N couldn't shake the feeling that the shadows of Stane's deception extended beyond the digital realm. There was a tangible threat that lurked in the real world, and the urgency to expose the truth weighed heavily on her shoulders.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the skyline, casting long shadows across the city, Y/N discovered a chilling piece of information – Stane's plan to escalate his operations. The revelation sent a shiver down her spine, and a wave of panic gripped her. The danger extended beyond the walls of Stark Industries; it threatened the very heart of their existence.

Y/N's eyes bore into the holographic displays, absorbing the damning evidence. Stane's digital fingerprints were everywhere, leaving an indelible mark on the files that chronicled his clandestine dealings. The realization of the danger her father had unknowingly faced fuelled Y/N's determination.

The evidence, a digital arsenal against Stane's treachery, materialized on her screens. With a sense of urgency, Y/N compiled the incriminating data, her fingers dancing across the holographic interfaces to secure every piece of damning information.

But even in her quest for justice, Stane's calculated awareness of her interference was unveiled. The moment she initiated the transfer of evidence to Tony, a chilling response echoed through the digital realm. The revelation of her investigation had triggered Stane's countermove – an abduction designed to silence the whistleblower.

In the depths of the night, Y/N found herself thrust into a harsh reality. Stane's henchmen surrounded her, their movements synchronized with the malicious efficiency of a well-executed plan. Within moments, she was overpowered, her attempts to resist met with ruthless determination.

As she was dragged away from her sanctuary of investigation, Y/N couldn't shake the feeling that her pursuit of truth had inadvertently led her into the heart of the danger that now enveloped her. Stane, the puppet master orchestrating a dangerous game, had taken her hostage, using her as a pawn in a bid to secure his escape from justice.

Unbeknownst to Y/N, as she grappled with her captors, a silent distress signal emanated from her necklace. The beacon of desperation, programmed with a daughter's plea for help, pulsated through the digital channels, reaching Tony Stark in the moments when he had just entered his iron man suit for testing. Tony's heart raced with a mix of fear and determination. Without a moment's hesitation, the repulsors on the Iron Man suit flared to life, propelling Tony into the night sky. The city below became a blur as he soared toward the coordinates sent by his daughter.

The scene that unfolded at Stane's secret lair was a clash of technology and malevolence. Tony, clad in the iconic red and gold armor, confronted Stane, the two armored figures locked in a battle that echoed the personal vendetta that had unfolded behind the scenes.

The cavernous space became an arena of clashing metal and the searing glow of repulsors. The echoes of the confrontation reverberated through the chamber, punctuated by the hum of technology pushed to its limits.

Y/N, restrained and defiant, watched the battle unfold. The sight of her father, clad in the Iron Man suit, was a mix of relief and pride. Yet, the danger that loomed threatened to overshadow the reunion they both sought.

As the battle reached its climax, Stane, realizing the game was up, attempted one final desperate move. The clash of armored figures intensified each blow resonating with the weight of justice seeking retribution.

In a burst of energy and determination, Tony emerged victorious. Stane, defeated and subdued, lay amidst the wreckage of his ambitions. The Iron Man suit's faceplate retracted, revealing a mixture of relief and resolve in Tony's eyes.

"Y/N, I'm here. I'll get you out of this," Tony's voice, filtered through the Iron Man suit's speakers, resonated with a blend of anger and concern.

Y/N met her father's gaze, a silent understanding passing between them. "I knew you'd come for me, Dad."

With calculated precision, Tony freed Y/N from her restraints, the cold metal giving way to the warmth of a father's embrace. The Iron Man suit, a symbol of strength and protection, faded into the background as the vulnerability of a family torn and reunited took center stage.

The tension that had gripped the cavern dissipated, leaving behind a sense of closure and resolution. The truth, exposed in the aftermath of the battle, laid bare the extent of Stane's treachery. The evidence, compiled by Y/N in her relentless pursuit of justice, served as a testament to the resilience of the Stark legacy.

As the dust settled, Tony, still in the Iron Man suit, approached Y/N, the faceplate retracting to reveal a mixture of relief and vulnerability.

"Y/N, are you okay?" Tony's voice held a paternal concern that transcended the confines of the armored suit.

Y/N nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and resilience. "I'm fine, Dad. Thanks to you."

Tony reached out, and the two shared an embrace that spoke volumes. The armored exterior of Iron Man seemed to fade away as the vulnerability of a father and the strength of a daughter came to the forefront.

"I should have known," Tony murmured, his voice a mix of regret and determination. "Stane's betrayal cuts deep, but we'll make him pay for what he's done."

Y/N, ever the composed figure, met Tony's gaze with a steely resolve. "We will, Dad. Together."

As they stood amidst the remnants of the confrontation, the weight of the Stark legacy hung in the air. The trials they faced had forged a bond that surpassed the armor and technology. It was a testament to the resilience of family and the unwavering commitment to justice.

In the aftermath of the ordeal, as the night sky embraced the dawn, father and daughter stood side by side. The Stark legacy, scarred but unbroken, faced a new day with a strength that came not just from technology but from the indomitable spirit of family.

[hsmagnet]

Detailed Introduction About Cross Belt Magnetic Separators

Detailed Introduction About Cross Belt Magnetic Separators Cross Belt Magnetic Separators are a remarkable innovation in material handling and separation technology. These versatile devices play a crucial role in various industries, ensuring the purity and quality of materials. Whether you’re in mining, recycling, food processing, or construction, understanding how crossbelt magnetic Separators…

[vishwakarmmagnets]

Unlocking Efficiency and Purity: Exploring the Range of Shree Vishwakarma Magnetic Separators

Shree Vishwakarma Magnets, a reputable producer, manufactures high-quality, customizable Magnetic Separators including Wet Magnetic Separator, Overband Magnetic Separator, Hump Magnetic Separator, and Roller Type Magnetic Separator. Magnetic separators play a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency, purity, and quality. They're renowned for quality and customer satisfaction, delivering efficiency and purity to industries. This magnetic separator not only enhances the overall efficiency of numerous operations but also extends the life of machinery and equipment. Contact us for bulk orders and optimize your processes.

[industrial-fishing-simulator-rpg]

Industrial Fishing Simulator I

06/13/2024 - Actual Play-Report

The Enceladus Case

Part I: Summary

NOTE: Usually in Industiral Fishing Simulator player character’s are called ‘Survivors’ and scenarios/adventures are called ‘missions.’ But I won’t necessarily use that language here.

On 20th November 2811, several days earlier than expected, the Survivors awoke from cryogenic stasis aboard the Typhoon-6, a special transport shuttle which was assigned to carry the crew and its precious cargo (P-class Thinking Engine Data Cores) to a space station called Dione B where the crew would be working for the Nebulon Corporation for various roles. The crew of the ship was made of up six individuals: Tyrande, an android medical officer; Semblant, a khardimon astroecologist; Isha Mayo, a human engineering officer and crew lead; Pal Minno, a mechanical specialist; Jane Beaudelaire, a simulacrum computing technician; and Terra Hayim, the navigational officer. All but Terra were players. 

All of the crew had assignments to complete upon waking from cryostasis, but when they first awoke, alarms in the ship were blaring and the ship’s Thinking Engine interface, NESSI was alerting the crew that the ship’s only escape pod had been remotely authorized to launch and was jettisoned. Additionally, Terra Hayim was missing from her cryostasis pod which was heavily damaged on the interior and exterior from brute force. It seemed as though she might have busted her way through from the inside but also the computing system of her pod was also compromised remotely. While the crew gained their bearings, they went about to complete their work assignments which were as follows: 

Tyrande (medical officer)

Inventory medical supplies in Medbay, investigate busted cryostasis pod.

Investigate the file of Terra Hayim.

Semblant (astroecologist)

Biomedical equipment inventory: scuba and pressure suits if necessary, oxygen tanks for all crew. 

Investigate biomechanical nanobots.

Isha Mayo (engineering officer)

Assure that precious cargo is secure and locked.

Contact Dione B Chief Engineer Ren Sarrow to report status.

Pal Minno (mechanical specialist)

Post-cryogenesis engine status check for the Typhoon-6.

Check fuel and oxygen levels.

Jane Beaudelaire (computing technician)

Review ship diagnostics with NESSI. 

Try to trace remote authorization of drop pod launch.

The crew split up to take on these various tasks as they woke up. Tyrande first discovered that while all of the medbay’s supplies seemed to be intact–the ship’s supply of anti-nanobiotic injectable medication was missing. She did not investigate Terra Hayim’s medical file. It was Tyrande who would find scuba equipment and oxygen tanks for the crew while Semblant began investigating the nanobots. Tyrande found that most of the crew had identical small angular cuts on their ankles but were turning up negative for nanobot infection in the full-body med-scanner. Semblant took samples of the nanobots and discovered their components: tungsten alloys, obsidian, non-Nebulon Corporation make, smaller than a nanometer, magnetic, etc. Semblant found traces of nanobots with her yiv-beat reader tool throughout the ship (a Yiv-Beat Reader is a scanner that detects radiation, radio telemetry frequencies, and other signals invented by a Glain scientist from Earth called Yiv Yarrow). Semblant also found nanobots in her and Terra’s shared quarters where Terra seemed to have stashed scuba equipment in her locker. 

Meanwhile, Isha Mayo logged into the crew-lead office, confirming the worst–that the precious cargo of the Typhoon-6 was missing and that someone had made a valid entry to the office. She attempted to contact Chief Engineer Ren Sarrow but found that all radio frequencies were being jammed by a signal originating on Enceladus which was also where the signal which remotely authorized the drop pod’s launch would be traced to by computer technician Jane Beaudelaire. Pal Minno would then find via the main engine room diagnostics system that the ship’s oxygen line and main ventilation shafts and fuel lines were leaking due to a growing corrosion which was burning a hole through the side of the Typhoon-6 (likely due to nanobots eating through the inner guts of the ship). Jane tracked the drop pod towards the rogue signals on the surface of Enceladus near the south pole.

The crew would then regroup (at this point, a 30 minute timer was set). Alerts went off from NESSI declaring hull instability and that the ship would need to make an emergency gravitational turn around Enceladus in order to avoid destabilizing and crashing into the moon. The crew elected to grab supplies and cordone off the portside where the corrosion was occurring and also attempt to decontaminate the ship of nanobots using a ship-wide decontamination protocol where they would lock themselves in the auxiliary engine room, shut off oxygen for the whole ship and burn everything away. Eventually, the crew decided they might need to try and assess the damage more fully and Jane volunteered for a spacewalk. She was hooked  up to the escape pod airlock and arduously climbed towards the portside of the ship where she discovered that near the corrosive damage–three massive three-legged spider-like robots were anchored to the hull, they began to pursue her but she made it back inside just in time for one of the robots to reach the door. It began shooting the airlock trying to break in when Pal cast Affix, locking it in place. The crew then decided they’d have no choice but to pursue the escape pod and land on Enceladus. 

Together, they plotted a course dipping around the moon and made a survivable crash landing into the icy crust of the south pole, dividing up oxygen tanks and pressure suits while they used energy weapons to cut through the sides of the ship to make it into the water before the ship would sink into the cold ocean below. Using Pal’s wrist-navcomputer where they had downloaded the Typhoon’s memory drives and navigation information, they traced the escape pod to where it crashed, locating the wreck. The escape pod had been torn open, there were signs of a slight struggle with a leftover nanobot-laden arm belonging to Terra left in the pod. The P-class Thinking Engine data cores were still missing and they began to receive signal readings from a nearby artificial structure which seemed to have the same frequencies as the signals that were jamming radio communications before. 

Narrowly escaping mysterious shapes swimming in the deep, the crew made it to an abandoned Nebulon Corporation laboratory–Naiad A. They had previously learned that when Neb Corp explorers discovered multicellular lifeforms on Enceladus, a lab was constructed but then abandoned due to “unknown circumstances” according to the official public report. In the abandoned lab, the crew discovered a strange black and white angular two-person ship, and Jane and Pal were able to lock it in the moonpool. On the other side of the lab, something seemed to be happening in a sealed medical chamber. When Pal knocked on the door, it was opened but a large three-legged drone robot carrying a rotary saw which the whole crew immediately opened fired at and destroyed. Inside this chamber was some kind of medical laboratory where there were tanks of living organs in life support tanks. On a medical bed, Terra Hayim, unconscious on life support was undergoing a surgical procedure which was half-completed, transforming her into one of these three-legged drone bots. She is still alive. Her blood, coursing with nanobots. Also, one of the P-class Thinking Engine Data Cores was being installed into Terra.

Investigating the computers in the room, the crew finds that whoever was responsible for this situation was using the equipment in the abandoned laboratory to hack Nebulon Corp technology to send the rogue signals. They discovered that the manufacturer of the strange technology like the robots and nanobots and ship docked in the moonpool is an organization of which there are no public records in Neb Corp systems called the Trappist Federation. They also recovered the lockboxes of stolen P-class Thinking Engine Data Cores. In the end, the crew was able to contact Dione B who will send ships to pick up the crew and debrief. 

Part II: Play-Report, System Check

Well, well, well. I mean that’s how it went. This was a really solid game two of Industrial Fishing Simulator. We had at least one person that I knew of in the group (Color/Jaci - Semblant) who had never played a TTRPG before–ever. We played for about 4 solid hours not including about 15-30 minutes of character creation in the beginning. The system was able to handle most every situation easily. One player (Bee - Tyrande) who had played FishSim game one and for whom this game was her second ever time playing a TTRPG reported feeling wayyyyy more comfortable playing this time, felt like she was able to inhabit her character more easily. Another player (Envee/Nat - Isha Mayo) was able to get everybody right into the roleplaying mood as the lead engineer on the starship, giving the players orders in character, grouping them into assignments. Also, giving each individual character a scenario-specific directive/job really helped put everyone into their characters and get everyone involved right away–helped us to discover issues happening on the ship really easily, break the ice with everyone, etc. 

I was initially worried about some mechanical items - (1) that the Will and Stress statistics in the game would be too convoluted and similar to make sense, but it worked out for the most part. I ended up using Will mostly for items involving Investigation an Awareness so I might consider changing Will to something like Aware or Perceive. I think Will also includes things like stealth as well so we won’t change anything just yet, but we’ll see. (2) The loss of Sanity equals temporary madness and all of the temporary madness effects are 100% roleplay-based which the players were generally able to get a grip on, but I think it might be hard to keep that consistent. I brought this up as a concern–whether we should have a madness effect cause a detriment to rolls or something but everyone disagreed with that notion. So, I’ll leave it as is and let them interpret their temporary madness as it comes over them. 

Spells work great. Spells, first and foremost, are extremely high risk–everyone who cast a spell during this game using their grimoires which I believe only ended up being Jane (Emma) and Pal (Olive) successfully pulled them off. But spells can potentially kill the caster or other players and alter the game entirely, but every spell is extremely powerful and can be interpreted fairly openly. I don’t put specific ranges on most of the spells because I want to interpret the usage situationally and so far it seemed to work like a charm. Affix is the favorite spell of the crew at the moment and ended up being pulled off successfully two or three times on the Trappist Federation Furies. 

Things we need to expand on in the rulebook–like priority things: (1) what special tools do; (2) finish the spells; (3) expand the damage tables; (4) relic tables and appendices.

Part III: Personal Note

I’m really glad that this session went well. Our very first Industrial Fishing Sim game was like a modern Homer’s Odyssey in the North Pacific but felt a lot less satisfying and there were too many players. This game The Enceladus Case was really quite fulfilling. Most fulfilling TTRPG experience I’ve had in a long time. We had a full mission that wrapped up completely to a point where I’d feel satisfied not returning to this storyline if I didn’t feel like it–but we can also continue the mystery of the Trappist Federation too. 

Despite playing TTRPG games of many sorts (Mostly Call of Cthulhu albeit) for nigh fourteen long years, this is the first time I’ve done a play-report. So, thank you for reading! I’ll try to keep these up as we keep playtesting Industrial Fishing Simulator.

Thanks! - clio <3

[vashiislblog]

Choosing the Right Miniature Circuit Breaker for Your Electrical Needs

MCB Miniature Circuit Breaker is like a safety guard for electrical circuits. It turns off automatically when something goes wrong. For example, if too much electricity flowing through the circuit. This helps prevent damage to our electrical devices and keeps everyone safe. MCBs are used in homes, offices, and factories to protect circuits from problems like short circuits and overloads. These days, MCBs are now preferred over fuses in low-voltage electrical settings because they are more reliable. They quickly detect when there's too much electricity and cut off the circuit to prevent damage. So, it's a good idea to invest in an MCB switch and MCB box to keep our electrical appliances safe.

MCB, or Mini Circuit Breaker, is a safety device. It protect electrical circuits from failures caused by short circuits and over-currents. It's an important part of every electrical connection within a building. At Vashi Integrated Solutions, we offer high-end, affordable, and safe MCB switches to meet your specific needs.

How Does an MCB Work?

Thermal Mechanism: This component responds to prolonged overloads. It uses a bimetallic strip. It bends when heated by excessive current. This eventually trips the switch to disconnect the circuit.

Magnetic Mechanism: This responds to short circuits by using an electromagnet. A short circuit makes a strong magnetic force. It trips the switch almost instantly. This cuts off the current and protects the circuit.

Types of MCBs

Type B: Trips between 3 to 5 times the rated current. Suitable for residential and light commercial applications where the likelihood of nuisance tripping is low.

Type C: Trips between 5 to 10 times the rated current. Ideal for commercial and industrial applications where there may be brief surges in current.

Type D: Trips between 10 to 20 times the rated current. Used for applications with high inrush currents, such as motors and transformers.

Type K and Z: Specialized types for specific applications, such as motor protection (Type K) or for sensitive equipment (Type Z).

Choosing the Right MCB

Determine the Load Requirements: Calculate the total load on the circuit. Then, select an MCB with a suitable current rating.

Consider the Type: Choose the MCB type (B, C, or D) based on the loads and inrush currents.

Check the Breaking Capacity: Ensure the MCB can handle the circuit's max fault current.

Verify Compatibility: Check that the MCB works with your electrical panel. It must meet local codes and standards.

Top Brands Offering MCBs

Siemens: Siemens provides a wide range of durable, technologically advanced MCBs. Their products meet high safety standards and suit various applications.

ABB: ABB is a global leader in electrical equipment, including MCBs. Their MCBs are known for their precision and reliability. They can handle high fault currents.

Legrand: Legrand provides a range of MCBs with advanced features and high performance. Their products protect circuits in homes and businesses. They're effective for both uses.

Conclusion

Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) are crucial for modern electrical systems. They protect against overloads and short circuits. You can improve your electrical safety and efficiency. Just know how they work, their benefits, and how to choose them. This applies to both homes and industries. Investing in the right MCBs ensures reliable electrical protection.

[materialsscienceandengineering]

A graphene addition for enhancing the critical current density of Bi-2223 superconductors

Superconductors are materials that offer zero electric resistance to the flow of current on being cooled down below a certain critical temperature. Typically, superconductors have a very low critical temperature, close to absolute zero. However, a class of superconductors, known as high-temperature superconductors (HTS) have a critical temperature above 77 Kelvin, the boiling point of liquid nitrogen. They have been extensively used for the development of superconducting devices in many industries. Bismuth strontium calcium copper oxide, often referred to as BSCCO, is a class of HTS which has been widely studied and used in engineering, medical equipment, mining, and transport systems. One of its members, (Bi1.6Pb0.4)Sr2Ca2Cu3O10 or Bi-2223, possesses the highest superconducting critical temperature, and has garnered significant attention for potential applications. However, limitations such as weak critical current density and weak magnetic flux pinning and a complex synthesis route have hindered the development and progress of Bi-2223 superconductors.

Read more.