Oh right, did I ever mention I will be going to Prague next week? (Namely because I want to see the alchemy museum. Actually, it's all because I want to see the alchemy museum.)

Kat's Catholic Commentary - Part (I've lost track)

My focus for this episode will be on Lestat's speech in his parting letter to Louis.

The purpose behind the letter may vary depending on when it was written (before or after Lestat knew of Louis’ plan of betrayal).  However, my focus is on the language used - specifically “the veil” - and why my Catholic senses were tingling.

But first - the disclaimer:

This is purely a fan meta/theory.  Even when I talk about character motivations with some certainty, remember it's just my take, not a fact-based declaration.  This helps keep things brief rather than saying "in my opinion" before every other sentence.

All points and takes are valid - this is just one of them.  I'm exploring one potential aspect of Lestat and Louis' relationship, not the whole picture or even trying to suggest it as the main foundation.

Also, there are frank references to the Catholic Church, its history, practices, sacraments, and some Bible verses.  If at any point you need to take a step back for self-care, please do.  Your well-being comes first.

Before diving in, I’ll share why I see a potential for a secondary meaning behind it because I’d like to add some weight to my personal fan theory that Lestat is conscious of how faith is still an integral part of Louis’ identity and how he might use it (however the purpose of this, I’ll leave to the reader).

Several moments in the first season, and some from the books (spoilers ahead if you’d like to avoid events after IWTV), reference Lestat and Louis’ relationship and his faith (and especially with a context of Catholicism):

The entire monologue at the end of episode one as Lestat declares his feelings for Louis in front of the altar.

Lestat’s monologue of Saint Louis (both as an off hand reference in ep 1 and the expanded version of Ep 2 that ends with: “You’re challenge every sunset St. Louis, and I’d have it no other way.”)

After Louis asks about Antoinette in Ep 3, when Lestat is describing the need for various forms of pleasure for “anything that wards off the dungs of the everlasting road we walk” - pauses to point out Louis’ form of pleasure as “Pleasures of the Good Book by the fire for you.”

And then in Ep 6, when Lestat arrives to gift Louis something from his favorite bookshop: “‘The Book of Hours.’  Extremely rare, 15th century.” - the Book of Hours, is also known as the Liturgy of Hours, or Divine Office, used by both clergy, religious and laity alike for daily devotions on a rotating cycle for uniform prayer.

And from the books:

In IWTV, Louis’ reference to following Lestat as a kind of personal Jesus: 

I allowed myself to forget how totally I had fallen in love with Lestat’s iridescent eyes, that I’d sold my soul for a manycolored and luminescent thing, thinking that a highly reflective surface conveyed the power to walk on water. 

“What would Christ need have done to make me follow him like Matthew or Peter? Dress well, to begin with. And have a luxurious head of pampered yellow hair. 

Later, in Prince Lestat, when they are reunited, Louis says (from Lestat's POV): 

He leaned close to me, and he put his hand on my arm. “ ‘Wither thou goest, I will go, and where thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people’; and because I have no other god and never will, you shall be my god.”*

* This quote Louis is saying is from the Book of Ruth: She answered, "Do not be against me, as if I would abandon you and go away; for wherever you will go, I will go, and where you will stay, I also will stay with you. Your people are my people, and your God is my God.” - Ruth 1:16 CPDV

I’ve also shared metas and commentary on Tumblr and Twitter about Louis and Lestat's relationship to faith and the little nods I’ve picked up here and there (more on that below).  But this isn’t intended as a comprehensive summary, just a soft recap to add context for anyone wondering, “how did she read that in this scene?”

Now, onto the main point!  For anyone needing a refresher, here’s the letter in full:

In the event that you are reading this, something dreadful has occurred.  Which is not my own death, but rather, the fact that we both now exist in two different worlds.  Do not waste your life seeking revenge on the person or persons who did this.  Do not give them the satisfaction of the hunt.  Let treachery eat away at them from within.  And you, you go carry on with your living.  Know only this, mon cher: you are the only being I trust, and whom I love, above and beyond myself.  All my love belongs to you.  You are its keeper.  A veil will now forever separate our union.  But it is a thin veil, and I’m always on the other side, face pressed up against your longing.

Setting aside the beautiful writing, the language used, and the sentiments declared (it fed my Words of Affirmation love language meter well), my second thought upon hearing “A veil will now forever separate our union.  But it is a thin veil, and I’m always on the other side, face pressed up against your longing.” was what my Catholic senses were tingling.

In a previous meta I discussed how I viewed the scene of Louis’ turning as a nod to the Sacrament of the Eucharist (though I can also see the other fan theory of the Sacrament of Matrimony).  This furthers my idea of Louis viewing Lestat as a kind of personal Jesus.  Given the examples above, I believe there might have been some intention behind Lestat’s words to reach Louis on a vulnerable level through his faith.

But why would former Catholic altar boy Louis catch that meaning, and what would it mean to him?

In the Catholic Church, the Eucharist is veiled in order to symbolize the mystery and sacredness of the Sacrament.  The veil represents the separation between the divine and the mortal, indicating that the true essence of the Eucharist (Christ's Body and Blood) is hidden under the appearance of bread and wine (and it’s a practice that dates back to early Christianity, where the veil also served to protect the Eucharist from desecration and to enhance the reverence of the faithful during Mass).

As Catholics, we believe that Jesus, at the Last Supper, instituted the Eucharist, when He said, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19).  He also said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you” (Luke 22:20).  They were declarations to emphasize the sacrificial nature of the Eucharist but also to serve as a message of hope - that there would be an intimate connection between Jesus and His followers, despite His physical absence after His death and resurrection - “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).  

Though death might separate the physical presence, the Eucharist provides a continuous, though veiled, connection with Christ.  This then allows the veil to symbolize hope and assurance that, while there may be a separation, it is thin, with the promise of a deeper, spiritual communion that transcends physical boundaries.

So, if Louis potentially viewed the Dark Gift as a kind of Eucharist that nourishes the soul, given to him through Lestat, then their spiritual interconnection and the nourishment it provided could continue.  His devotion to Lestat would not need to end.

I believe Lestat “I went to a monastery to become a priest” de Lioncourt, knew exactly what he was doing when he used those words to describe how interlinked they would remain.  

This furthered Louis’ (perhaps even subconscious) view of Lestat and Jesus - and himself as potentially Judas (meta here, and here), though I personally enjoy the view of Louis identifying with Mother Mary the most (visual reference and poem, art and another art piece here).

Whether intentional or not, or perhaps a completely different point that I read too much into (which can definitely be the case lol), it spoke to me on a deep level when I heard it.  I’d like to believe it did for Louis as well. 

Chapter Eighteen - Weakness

Bucky Barnes Mob AU x Femme Reader

You're hard at work in Pepper's Bakery when notorious mob boss James 'Bucky' Barnes darkens your doorway one typical afternoon, and life is never the same again

Warning: Dark - Kidnapping and false imprisonment, threats with a gun, threats of violence/sexual assault, references to murder, rough handling of reader

18+ - see Masterlist for full list of warnings

Chapter 19

Series Masterlist

You briefly allow yourself to hope that this is Bucky and his men. That he's doing this as some sort of twisted punishment for what you said. Yes, that would be a super fucked up thing to hope for, but at least you'd stand a chance of getting out of this alive.

As time goes on it becomes clear that this isn't Bucky, though. You don't recognise any of their voices. You have no idea who these men are.

This is bad. Really bad.

You do your best to stay calm, knowing panicking will mean you won't have your wits about you. You need to stay focused, do everything you can to stay alive.

Finally, after a very bumpy car ride as you laid on the floor of the vehicle, you get to wherever you're going. The journey was about forty minutes you think, maybe an hour, you try and work out how far that might be out of the city, but to no avail. They park up and you hear people step out to talk. You strain to hear what they're saying through whatever fabric is over your head - there are at least two of them, maybe three. They don't use names and don't give anything away about who they might be or what they're doing with you. They just mutter about the boss, and everything being in place for something. You can't make out the rest.

Suddenly the door is wrenched open, you are tugged up to your feet and snatched roughly out of the vehicle. It hurts and you know you'll likely have bruises up your arms from where they've manhandled you. You're standing outside again when the gun impatiently taps on the back of your head and you take that as indication to walk. You can't see so you have no idea where you're going, a firm hand on your shoulder is guiding you to walk in the direction they want you in. You clomp awkwardly in your date night heels.

"Please..." you murmur quietly from under the hood. "If you want money I can get you my savings and everything from my job's safe...I don't have much but-".

The gun digs hard into your skull again and you shut up suddenly, not stupid enough to continue.

You're lead into some sort of building, trying to count the number of turns and doors you take, doing your best to form a mental picture of the layout. You can feel voices on either side of you and know multiple sets of eyes are on you as you pass by even though you can't see them. Eventually you are pushed down into a rigid chair and the hood is torn from your head.

Your eyes strain under the bright lights after being in the darkness for so long and you do your best to adjust to where you are. The lights are lurid and unflattering, adding a disorientating edge to the already stark space.

You peer across the room as you blink and get your bearings. You're in a warehouse or factory it seems, rusting machinery surrounds you and everything looks decayed and far beyond its best days. The air smells of rusty water and damp mould.

Soon your eyes find your captors, standing ten or so feet away. There's a group of them dressed in combat gear. They all have various weapons strapped to them – sat in holsters, slung over their shoulders, tucked carefully into their palms. Ammo clips are affixed to belts draped around their waists, bandoliers rest threateningly across their torsos. You shudder at the sight. There are more of them than you realised.

A muscular dark haired man stares back at you hungrily and you flinch instinctively at his gaze.

An older man in a dark suit and tie smiles kindly as he heads towards you, his professional attire a jarring contrast to the others in their almost-military like get up. He seems warmer than his 'colleagues' and you can tell he was a handsome man in his younger days.

You begin to panic, the reality of seeing your kidnappers in front of you with all of their weaponry suddenly triggering your flight or fight response. You squirm in your restraints, head jerking side to side as you hunt for anything or anyone that might help you. You feel exposed too, still wearing your tight evening dress from your date. Your body is on show more than you'd like – not that there's an optimum outfit for this type of scenario. You've also managed to lose a shoe somewhere on the walk from the car to here. You're vulnerable, weak. They all know that too.

"Please..." you plead weakly. "I don't know why I'm here".

"I know it must be scary, honey. But try not to panic. We aren't going to hurt you" says the suited man, his voice low and soothing.

"Speak for yourself" laughs the dark haired man, and the rest of the group laugh coldly with him.

The suited man shoots them a look and they all shut up instantly. He must be their leader, you understand. The 'boss' they mentioned.

"Like I said. Nobody is going to hurt you sweetie, as long as you behave yourself. Alright? Can you do that for me?" He coos at you as he comes closer.

You nod rapidly, your eyes widening. You have no interest in finding out what happens if you don't behave.

"Smart girl. But I should've guessed. Barnes isn't gonna pick himself a dummy is he?" He laughs.

Your eyes narrow at the mention of Bucky's name. "Barnes...?" you mumble as things finally start to fall into place.

"Uh huh" the man continues. "The man himself. We know you're well acquainted".

Your throat suddenly feels very dry. "I think y-you have the wrong girl" you stammer. "We aren't together, me and him."

The man smiles, his sweet tone never faltering.

"Well, are you sure about that sweetie? Maybe think about it again. We know he was outside of your apartment when we picked you up. We know he sent a huge order of balloons to your workplace. We know you spent the night with him at his house after some canoodling in a nightclub. We know he sends his men to follow you around town. And he's always in that cute little bakery of yours, isn't he? Seems like pretty damning evidence to me, sweetheart".

You internally admit that you see their logic.

You nearly vomit as you begin to understand just how long they have been following you. Bucky too. Did he know they were following him? How could his surveillance team miss them??

You choke out a sound which is a mix between a laugh and a sob.

"No no...you gotta believe me. We did spend the night together yes, but that's it. He follows me because he likes to torture me. He doesn't really want me. I'm just a... a plaything to him. He's been making my life a misery. He doesn't care, not really. Please...you've gotta believe me..." you're practically begging now.

The men all laugh like you've told a great joke and the suited one speaks again.

"Lovers' quarrel huh sweetie? We've all been there. But listen, you don't know him like we do - he's always been a hump and dump kinda guy. Been that way since he discovered his pecker. Trust me, he used to work for me back in the day and he was the same way then, too. He doesn't keep them around, but he keeps you around. That's no accident."

You almost laugh at the ridiculousness of this terrifying thug validating your relationship with Bucky. This was the last way you ever thought you'd receive reassurance about how Bucky feels about you.

"He used to work for you?" you ask quietly.

The man nods, a hint of a smile lurking on his solemn face.

"A long time ago. We taught him everything he knows. He'd be nothing if I didn't take him under my wing. Oh - where are my manners? My name is Alexander Pierce. This fine gentleman is Brock Rumlow" he gestures to the dark haired man who sneers back at you.

You instinctively know Rumlow was the one from the car with the gun pressed into your spine. You feel like a strong hatred for him like you've never felt for a stranger before. You just know in your gut that he's a bad man. A dangerous man.

That they all are.

Pierce introduces some of the other men who all share the same identical snarl on their faces. In your peripheral vision you see more figures at the side of the warehouse, weaving in and out of the doors. There are more of them here than you initially thought. The place is swarming with them.

You scan the room again and take in more of the layout. There are the big double doors you came through on one side, that's where the hub of activity seems to be with people coming and going. A lot of old machinery is dotted across the wide room, each in varying states of disrepair. There's a raised mezzanine level running across one side which seems to be accessed by ladders but it doesn't seem to go anywhere. And then finally in the far corner you spot a solitary door. Fire exit, maybe?

Pierce stands in front of you as your attention snaps back to him. He begins to talk, seemingly relishing your fear.

"You may know us as HYDRA. We knew Barnes as the Winter Soldier. He was the deadliest assassin on the east coast, maybe the country" continues Pierce. "He could put a bullet between anyone's eyes before they'd even noticed him. We recruited him when he was very young, he took to training like a duck to water. It was all very innate, you know the type. Very valuable to our little organisation, as you can imagine".

Pierce mimes a gun action with his hand, his mouth imitating blowing a gun barrel with his finger.

You swallow nervously as you listen. HYDRA rings a bell, you've heard of them – maybe seen a headline or two - knew they were bad men involved with organised crime and terrorist activity, but you couldn't recall much else. You knew Bucky was capable of awful things, and you knew deep down he would've killed somewhere along the way, but hearing it like this from Pierce chilled you to the bone. Bucky was scary. You cringed thinking about all the times you'd berated or challenged him. How lucky you'd been to not push him too far...

"But being just a hitman wasn't enough for him" Pierce continued. "So he broke away from us and started his own organisation, using everything he learned from his time here. Teamed up with some old military buddies of his and built themselves from the ground up, using all the connections and knowledge he learned from us".

Steve and Sam.

"They took out nearly 80% of our numbers after they surprised us one evening, an evening not unlike this one actually. A total massacre. Barnes was like a terminator that night, sweetie, I have never seen anything like it. He just kept coming. Kept mowing people down. The few who managed to survive still have nightmares about him. And now he's on top, and he's been hunting the rest of us ever since..." smiled Pierce forlornly.

"And now he's mostly legit, filing his taxes and all that boring civilian stuff. He's still terrorising the city, but in a different way. We've been trying to find a weakness of his for years but nothing ever came up. Until now that is..." he explained, grinning at you devilishly.

You shrink slightly in your chair. "Weakness...?" you ask in a small voice.

"That's where you come in, sweetheart. You're our bait. You're going to help lure Barnes out here and we are finally going to take care of him, once and for all - and then we can get back on top where we belong".

You begin to panic, eyes widening as you shake your head. You feel sick thinking about Bucky coming out here, as desperate as you also are for him to save you. There are just so many of them. He and his men would be wiped out.

"You don't understand...." you whimper. "It's like I said. We aren't an item. This evening I called him a sociopath and threatened to rat him out to the feds. He...he isn't coming to help me if I ask".

The group laugh, amused by your story. Pierce grins from ear to ear as he leans towards you, pulling up another chair and sitting opposite you.

"If that's true and he doesn't come - no big deal, we'll just shoot you any way sweetheart. No skin off our noses. Annoying to waste a night, but we'll just regroup and come up with something else. Get him some other time. Besides, the boys here will enjoy taking their time with you".

The room echoes with the gang's skin-crawling laughter and you gasp, squeezing your eyes shut as fear grips you and sits on your chest like a boulder.

"And...and if he does come?" you manage to croak out. "What happens to me after...well...after you've dealt with him?"

Pierce grins and the other men titter behind him.

"Well, we haven't decided yet, honey. But if you're good, maybe we'll keep you around. We could use a feminine presence around the place. And we can help you get over your boyfriend".

You don't want to think about what that might entail. It seems whatever happens tonight, this doesn't end well for you. 

You're not naïve. You know Bucky isn't going to risk his life, or the lives of his friends and men, to come save the person who screamed at him just a couple of hours before. A woman he'd fucked once when you'd drunkenly stumbled around his nightclub. There'd be no sentimentality solely because she used to package up his doughnuts.

You were on your own.

You had to save yourself.

Pierce smiles as he holds up your phone, wriggling it in his hand.

"Let's drop lover boy a line, shall we?" he tells you ominously.

jaemin: first love

Word count: 915

Warnings: implied angst, but mostly fluff

Notes: this is Jaemin's part of 'nct dream as love tropes', enjoy!

“These are so pretty,” your roommate says in awe as she flips through one of your photo albums. The two of you just moved in together and were unpacking when she came across your stack of albums. “Thanks, but I don’t really take photos like that anymore. It was just an old hobby,” you tell her as you sort out your closet. Among the many photos of various types of architecture, nature and wall art, she flips to a page even you forgot was there. “Oh? Who’s this?” “Hm?” And when you look over to see a photo of Na Jaemin staring back at you, all you could bring yourself to do is smile. 

Jaemin was your first love. He was the only man in your life you trusted your life with. He was sweet, funny, charming, and carefree. There was no way you wouldn’t have fallen for him. 

It was spring, and you were out taking pictures since the cherry blossoms had bloomed. You always loved capturing the details of nature. They helped remind you that beauty still existed in this cold world. It calms you almost. You were reviewing the picture you just took when you heard shutters going off nearby, ones similar to that of your own camera. And you look up to see a man pointing his camera at you a few feet away. It was awkward to say the least, usually something like this would freak you out. But when he put his camera down, he almost looked embarrassed he got caught. You couldn’t help but chuckle as his ear began to turn a darker shade of pink. Then he smiled and you felt your heart skip a beat. 

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to be a creep,” he apologised as he walked towards you. “Got bored taking pictures of the cherry blossoms?” “I prefer taking pictures of people.” “With such pretty flowers around you, you care more about the people?” “I care more about capturing emotions.” And before you ask what he means by that, he shows you the photo he took of you just a minute before. “See how happy you look? That’s what I like to see.” He tells you as you continue looking at the small screen on his camera. If you were honest, you’ve never seen yourself smile like that before. Since you never really enjoyed being in front of the camera. It feels strange yet flattering all at once. As you gaze up at him, not sure of how to respond, he only smiles back at you before saying, “I’m Jaemin, by the way. Would you like to grab coffee with me right now?” And the rest was history.

The two of you fell in love naturally, rather quickly too. It wasn’t difficult. You two share the same hobbies and enjoy the simplest of things. You would walk around taking pictures of buildings, trees, cars, flowers, road signs and every other thing in your way. And Jaemin’s camera was hyper focused on you. Your hang outs consist of chatting in a cafe, going over your pictures together. Then going grocery shopping before heading back to Jaemin’s place to cook dinner. Days ending with the two of you tangled together on the couch or on his bed. 

You’ve never been in a serious relationship before and you always thought you’d be more cautious, more picky. But you didn’t even hesitate when Jaemin asked you to be his girlfriend. It was the easiest decision you made in your life. Jaemin made you feel safe, warm and at home. You moved out at a young age because of personal circumstances. And you’ve never felt at home anywhere. But ever since you met Jaemin, you knew home was wherever he was.

You moved in with Jaemin within two months. Afterall, there was already a section of his closet reserved for you. It was simply perfect. Lovers sharing a small apartment. And even though it wasn’t much, it was enough. You did what lovers do and you shared many firsts with Jaemin. He would pick you up from classes after work. Jaemin tried to take you out on proper dates whenever time allowed. Even though you both generally preferred getting take out and relaxing at home together. Jaemin would buy you flowers randomly. You would prepare lunch bentos for him to bring to work, and we all know Jaemin would show it off during lunch. Picnic dates and late night drives. Petty arguments and making up. Kissing in the rain and slow dancing in the kitchen. It was simply beautiful, the love you and Jaemin shared, it was beautiful. 

“You know, I’ve never felt like this about anyone before,” Jaemin tells you one night, after the two of you were already under the covers, ready to sleep. The only source of light coming from the night lamp in your shared bedroom. “Really?” You ask in a whisper, gazing at him with tired eyes. “Really. I love you so much it scares me,” he holds your gaze, his fingers gently moving strands of hair out of your face. “Why?” “I just want to be with you forever. But-” “We can do that.” “You’ll be with me forever?” “Forever.” Jaemin chuckles and pulls you closer by the waist, you snuggle into the crook of his neck. And the last thing you hear before you drift off to sleep was Jaemin’s deep voice repeating, “Forever” as he places a kiss on your forehead.

The Love That Whirls, An Introduction

One of my biggest loves is women's pro wrestling. Ever since the early 2000s when I started watching wrestling, I was amazed by the women who found their way to the top. I loved Lita and Trish Stratus and was floored by how incredible the Gail Kim and Awesome Kong feud was. However, with the lack of exploratory knowledge of the Internet and lack of critical research I missed out on the best of the best from that time that had happened outside of major promotions and what little from Japan I knew about. I ended up falling away from really diving deep into it. I had seen the rise of 4 horsewomen of NXT and learned more and more about STARDOM as it grew in popularity. Social media helped give me glimpses of Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling (TJPW) and other smaller joshi promotions. AEW also helped with giving me exposure to the international scene, as well as the ill-fated NXT UK. Though, I never REALLY stayed focused on women's wrestling.

In 2023 however, I started watching TJPW more seriously. I wanted to really dive deeper after being inspired watching old joshi matches and video essays about the modern scene. I was also seeing American independent wrestlers I was familiar with participating in TJPW shows. So, I borrowed my friend's Wrestle Universe account and watched TJPW Grand Princess '23. I was amazed by how much fun I had watching, and wanted more. Not just more of TJPW, but I wanted to pay more attention to STARDOM, Marvelous, Sendai Girls, Pure-J, anything women's wrestling I could find. I initially included that with paying attention to more wrestling overall, and was rating matches across the board I enjoyed. Then it dawned on me that while I know that men's wrestling could be great, I was just losing immense amounts of interest. Especially in American wrestling and New Japan. Meanwhile, I was drawn back again and again to the women.

I started with deep diving into TJPW, STARDOM and as much of the American scene that was available to me (AEW, WWE, ROH, Impact and various others). I've put money into WRESTLE UNIVERSE, Marvelous and PURE-J. I got into Actwres Girl'Z, OZ Academy, WAVE and Sendai Girls. I know far more about the current picture than I did in March when I started. This has led me to wanting to not just rate matches or throw a few quick opinions out on Elon's hellhole or anywhere else. I decided that I should really consider covering the women's wrestling scene.

That's where this blog comes in.

While I am not ready to get started yet, I am looking to get fully invested in taking in as much women's wrestling as I can next year. I want a fresh start in January, and cover everything. These women bust their butts, and I want to just appreciate it and tell everyone all about it. From Tokyo Dome week to WrestleMania weekend, from the theaters and clubhouses in America to Arena Mexico. Wherever there is women's wrestling, I want to see it and tell you about it. On top of that, I want to deliver my thoughts on classics from time to time.

The Love That Whirls will be a new venture for me, but I want to try and bring the Internet the best writing I can produce about what I am passionate about. I can't just scream from the rooftops or post loudly from social media to watch things. I have to get as much of what I watch out there for the world to see, and learn about scenes I am less familiar with new and old. The importance of women's wrestling can only be shown if given the love and attention it deserves, and that's what I promise to deliver.

See y'all soon. I might post a classic review or two before the year gets started and offer a look back at 2023 if time allows.

you made a whole hc post about it!! ah this is so cool. a very solid yes to the whole thing. i think we’re definitely in a like mind about serra’s reaction and that whole process. from both the answer to my ask and the seperate post. i have nothing to say that you haven’t said BUT i do have this post i just saw which feels very berena: https://amarakaran.tumblr.com/post/695574270188929024/sk-lumen-a-lover-says-to-another-lover-youll

Thank you!!! To be honest, I could make a whole hc post about most things (currently contemplating one about cam's funeral shhhh), and it's nice that you reached out to say we're of similar minds. I sometimes worry I've got the whole thing wrong - but I suppose we are all allowed our own interpretation and so none of us can be wrong. Unless you are really wrong. ;)

A lover says to another lover, you’ll always have a home with me. I think that’s the best definition for love and friendship. People that become like a home, a place you can return to and feel safe in, a place you feel you always belong in.

This is amazing, thank you so much for sending it in. I've tried toying with this idea in various WIPs and metas, but I'm of the opinion that the 6-8 or however many months that Serena spends between quitting Holby and reuniting with Bernie... she gains a certain wanderlust. She likes to think she got it from Bernie - the appreciation for broader horizons, the appetite for adventures. That bravery that's always been there, that Bernie saw even before she did. But wherever she goes she's missing... something. She knows it's grief, knows herself well enough that it carries on.

She can't settle in Cornwall. So, Serena goes further afield. She's not entirely sure what she's looking for. The problem with suddenly feeling like she could do anything she wanted - that list she gave to Ric - is that she doesn't really yearn to do any of it. All her life, she's had a plan. Even when she was grieving Elinor. Now... now she doesn't know what she's doing. She does finally sell that leafy detached though. It feels like she should have done it years ago.

It's all to do with the future she aided in robbing from herself (the one with Bernie), but can't figure out what helps her soul more. To go to a place where she's not been before, nor has Bernie? Or a place where they'd visited together? Or somewhere she grieved for Elinor, that helped her then? Or maybe a place where Bernie had been, but she'd never set foot in? All combinations that she tries over the months. None of it quite works. All of it niggles, all of it feels like a stepping stone rather than anywhere she could truly settle. It doesn't feel like a home.

She goes to visit the NTC. A place she only saw briefly when Bernie gave her a tour during the one time she visited, right after it opened. Locums there, for a short contract, or something. Bernie is everywhere: the surgery Serena is doing is what Bernie would have been doing, she meets staff that knew Bernie (though IDK if she announces who she is/was!) but it still takes her a few days to spot a photograph on a wall -a picture of the grand opening, framed newspaper articles etc. A collection. A picture of Bernie she's not seen before. Quotes of her words. Bernie's everywhere, but it's not enough. She doesn't have any second thoughts about leaving when she's free to do so.

Serena is just starting to get to the point where she'll give up, return to England, find somewhere and call it a day. Dig her feet in. She goes to Spain, not looking for any work for once, just an extended holiday. A week or so into her stay... she gets the call.

Washi Record Hobby Jobs

Therefore, you're considering purchasing some washi tape or you previously possess some of this functional craft product and are thinking what in the world regarding it? Effectively, I have a couple of enjoyment (and absolutely cheap) recommendations for you! custom keychains

The initial and many clear way to utilize washi record is put it to use as an embellishment in your scrapbook adventures. Washi recording is excellent for papercrafting and can be utilized to adhere items to your pages. It may also be used as a ribbon or report reel alternative, and is really easier to make use of! Only tear a bit down and stick it wherever you want it to go. There is no unpleasant glue to fight with, and removing it to reposition is a breeze. You can find many colors and designs, you're positive to get something which will completely match your project.

Subsequently, you should use washi tape to decorate your timber crafts. You will find a super cheap basic timber photograph frame at your local hobby store, buck store, or Walmart and use washi recording to provide it life. That is a simple way to generate custom frames for you personally and your family, or to offer away as gifts. Creating these custom structures is quite simple. All you have to are a number of your favorite moves of washi record and the timber photograph figure ($0.99 at Walmart.)

1.Take one throw of washi tape and rip off a bit (or reduce it using scissors if you want a clear cut) and place it on the image frame. 2.Take another, various roll of washi recording and split down a bit and put it on the photograph frame. 3.Continue this technique till your body is included in tape. You are able to allow some wood to glimpse through if you would like, or completely cover it in tape. 4.Don't worry in the event that you "wreck up" on your own recording place, it's super easy to eliminate the tape and change it. You may also use this record to decorate timber page blocks. This is a simple and simple solution to personalize these prevents without lots of time, effort, and mess. You can strategy designing the words the exact same way you would the picture frames.

A third great masking record art thought is to use these tapes to decorate simple glass vases. Simple vases is found at your local Dollar Tree for merely a sale! I would suggest buying numerous forms and/or measurements and utilising the completed item to incorporate a custom, designer touch to your room. Designing the vases is a cinch. I recommend applying scissors to produce a clear cut on the washi tape. You will want to reduce enough record to wrap around the vase (horizontally) or enough to cover the tape ends by covering them within the lip/base of the vase (vertically).

Fourthly, washi tapes make a good offer decoration. You need to use them to gift cover a package. That performs particularly well when you yourself have a plain colored paper. You can even use them to enhance simple white gift boxes. Also, if you're posting a deal this makes a sweet decor to enhance the package (just don't utilize it in place of supplying tape, it releases also easily!).

Last but most certainly not least, and even though definitely not a craft task, you should use it to adhere crucial notes to your wall/desk without worrying so it may injury the surface. You can write on washi record, so it creates an extremely lovely solution to label things. Individually, I used washi tape to label seed pods for my interior yard which managed to get that more colorful and cute.

There are so several employs with this great decorative record so it has become a selection in virtually any papercrafter's arsenal. You can find many ways that it can be utilized, and I am sure once you begin utilizing it you will never wish to be with no roll!

Client & Fmcg Recruitment Company Nl

Next Ventures went to nice lengths to verify I was the proper candidate for a wanted position, as properly as ensuring that the company was proper for me. The recruitment turned out to be a very good match both for me and for the recruiting company. I was also impressed by how Next Ventures and its staff showed great dedication and professionalism during but additionally after my successful placement.

Aaron Wallis Sales Recruitment has a group dedicated to FMCG sales professionals. Our fast moving consumer items recruitment consultants are hugely skilled of their field and recruit on behalf of some of the UK's leading producers. Berkeley can help you set the proper strategy and deliver the necessary transformation to your key ‘back office’ capabilities in order to greatest align and help the brand new enterprise reality.

Based in Vejle/Denmark, Palle has greater than 20 years of numerous experience throughout FMCG business, and he is a member of the Horton International world Consumer Practice. Based in Helsinki Finland Ani has more than 20 years of various expertise across FMCG business, and she or he is a member of the Horton International world Consumer Practice. Wide range of chemical analysis expertise, with a specialist curiosity in linking evaluation to the process and product.

We showcase 30 inspirational stores pushing retail boundaries across the globe, all which align with the important thing themes of our Store of the Future 2030 model. Together, we drive change to make a significant, tangible difference and deliver social influence. You will be requested to create an account which also offers you free access to premium Impact content. Pictured is Maureen Massarani, founder and managing director of Point Consultancy. Register You don't must register once more if you already have an MRS internet account, just sign in.

From Account Managers to Directors, our consultants have specialist information of this sector. By combining this with our established popularity, we’re in a place to associate with a few of the world’s leading FMCG brands. Through our worldwide recruitment campaigns, we’ve built a global network of candidates and shoppers, allowing us to provide distinctive opportunities. Within FMCG, the foods and drinks sub-sector has its own specific challenges, including some which are age-old and a few that are far more current. Of course, the perishable nature of food and drink merchandise imply that time to shelf and inventory turnover are critical for profitability, together with minimising wastage and damages. More lately, the growing consciousness of environmental impacts has led shoppers to question manufacturers carefully on their packaging selections, distribution fashions and wastage ranges.

The OECD stories that counterfeit and fake items make up greater than three.3% of the world’s international commerce. Those concerned within the trade of counterfeits have been linked to individuals trafficking, prostitution, and drug dealing. We are additionally proud members of IP Inclusive, a network of professionals working to make the mental property industry extra numerous. As an instance, Coca Cola state their main job is to “follow the consumer” who count on to buy whatever they want from wherever they're, this means utilising Big Data and embracing eCommerce. FMCG giants have actually seen their world turned the other way up over current years. R&D tax credit calculator 21 February 2023 Our R&D tax credit calculator lets you estimate what R&D tax credits might be value to your business.

This business is understood for being extremely aggressive and saturated by manufacturers all attempting to contend for the attention of the viewers, engaging and inspiring them to purchase their merchandise. If you’re on the lookout for IT solutions that will assist your FMCG company – whether or not that assist takes the form of an IT Helpdesk or a project to digitally rework the greatest way your organization makes use of IT, then we may help. Naden Blair specialise inside Qualitative and Quantitative Market Research, Branding, Strategy, Innovation, Analytics, Operations/Project Management sectors. They work on a range of positioning, branding, innovation and communication challenges for...

[Review] Bridge Constructor Portal (iOS)

A delightful engineering-ish puzzle game.

The Portal universe is a compelling one, with a strong visual style and sardonic sense of humour. I’ve enjoyed both main first-person entries, the Lego Dimensions content, a fan mod or two, and even tried out the Pinball FX table briefly... and now this (I skipped the more fringe tech demo experiments). A spinoff itself of the popular Bridge Constructor series, where you build structured spans to allow the passage of vehicles, this has a pitch-perfect Aperture Science setting, relevant mechanics such as lasers, buttons, and of course portals, and even a handful of voiced quips from Glados herself.

So, I came for the Portal content but I stayed for the building puzzles. I spent a lot of time with Armadillo Run in my adolescence, which had a similar construction system; before that The Incredible Machine with its logic chains you set up and then watched play out; and more recently World of Goo which injected personality and fun gimmicks into construction challenges. This seemed to be a lovely mix of these which got me nostalgic in various ways while giving me many fresh scenarios to puzzle through.

The initial goal of each level is to build the ideal structures—often ending up precarious and haphazard—to get a forklift from the start to the end, wherever it is. The extra goal after this is Convoy mode, which pits a variable-sized fleet of forklifts against your creation which brings extra strain on your components as well as timing and flow-based wrinkles. You’re contending with many familiar Aperture traps and hazards recontextualised to these large side-on chambers: acid pits, emancipation grids, companion cubes to be wrangled, faith plates, and later on portals as well, although your main enemy is managing the momentum and forces of the forklifts on their run. The DLC expansion even lets you place your own portals: up to ten pairs, and you will be using them all in certain levels.

The menu has a basic primer on engineering tips, but other than that the game drops you into it pretty fast. It took me a while to come to grips with the tricks you need. Eventually I internalised the rules and was planning my routes with aplomb, relishing the voyages of my little vehicular guinea pigs as I tweaked my creation. Of course, they can get a bit lengthy and at times I wished for a fast-forward button. Then there were the test chambers where my solution was hanging by a shoestring or relied on a lucky physics quirk; a minor fluctuation or convoy variable would bring the whole thing crashing frustratingly down. By the way, if you ever get stuck as I did a few times, I recommend IGN’s guide which has pictures of their solutions.

With 60 chambers plus 30 more in the Portal Proficiency pack, this has kept me busy for a while, on and off. I played on my iPad with its intuitive touch controls and a decent sized screen for all the detailed action, doing a few puzzles before bed or whiling away a lazy afternoon. I liked revisiting the Portal world, even if it’s a slightly stylised version thanks to its use of the “Bendy” silhouette characters. The cartooniness helped take the edge off and it’s not overwhelmed with jokes and narrative as Portal 2 was at times. And I didn’t realise how much I missed these construction simulation games. This has earned its place on the shelf with the others I mentioned in paragraph 2.

This allows you the flexibility

To be honest most electric flames used to look really bad.Power to the fireplace insert is relatively easy but what if you have an opening that is larger then the size of the electric fireplace box. baby safety gates manufacturer Some of the higher output models e in 220V, again if there is an outlet you can simply plug it in, some mon appliances that run off 220V include ranges and dryers. It has many things going for it: ability to heat small rooms 400 square feet or more, flames are finally looking like real flames, and the biggest reason they are so popular is the ease of installation. Wherever possible look for reviews. They closely mimic the waving, fluttering, and jumping around of a real flame. But the good news is today, with the advancement in technology, the look of the flames is getting much more realistic. 

Although I mentioned many inserts can simply be plugged into the wall some are designed to be professionally installed and hardwired into your homes electrical system, do your research contact the manufacturer or supplier to make sure it's what you want - plug in to a wall or hardwired. If you are intending to fit your electric fireplace into an existing opening I suggest you take the measurements before hand and have them handy as you do your research.Many of today's electric fireplace inserts can simply be plugged into a standard 120V wall outlet. Once considered "the dog" of fireplaces, this fireplace insert is gaining in popularity. As you look at the various models doing your research look for the measurements, specifications and installation instructions. This allows you the flexibility to put it in almost any room of your home as well as slide it over to whatever wall you want.

 Another convenient feature to look for is the ability to run either flame only or flame and heat.Adding to the warmth and feel of a real fireplace electric fireplace inserts are now able to efficiently heat smaller rooms around 400 square feet providing 5000BTU/hr, or larger units that run off of 220V provide approximately 9,200 BTU/hr enough to heat a 600-800 square feet room. Many manufacturers have taken this into account so you should be able to easily find an electric fireplace insert that es with a matching surround kit to help cover any visible gaps. You may find some inserts that look just amazing in the picture but the customer reviews may reveal that the flames look terrible or the finish on the mantle looks cheap, check the reviews it may save you a lot of trouble. 

To help evenly disperse the heat small fans force out the warm air into the room. It is very hard to tell just by looking at pictures if the flames are very realistic looking.The biggest issue with electric fireplace inserts has been the look of the flame. Not only are the flames looking more realistic the logs and embers have also improved adding to the overall presentation.Copyright (c) 2009 Randy HeslipAre you living in a townhome, condo or small apartment or maybe looking for a quick, easy, economical way to renovate your home but don't want to go to the hassle of installing a "real" fireplace? Than take a closer look at an electric fireplace insert

LAST CALL!!! AMAZING DRAGON STUFFED ANIMALS -- 13% OFF NOW We're cleaning up our inventory and offering major blow-out deals on our Dragon Stuffed Animals. For a limited time, take advantage of our 13% discount. Pay just $34.28 for the Dragon Stuffed Animals you want today -- we're confident you won't find a better price elsewhere. Ready to buy? Just ADD TO CART now to save $4.92 on your purchase! MORE ABOUT DRAGON STUFFED ANIMALS Material: Cotton Age Range: > 3 years old Features: Stuffed & plush Gender: Unisex Filling: Pp cotton Isn't it a great deal! Therefore, hurry up and ADD TO CART your Toy Shop to become a happy owner of this lovely product! PRODUCT QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Are there more variations to choose from? You can see all the available product options in the product description, so ADD TO CART whichever Dragon Stuffed Animals you prefer. Do your images give a clear picture in terms of colors? The colors in the images of our Dragon Stuffed Animals are real. Some gadgets and devices could slightly change colors. So, make sure yours gives the real picture. I’m not sure I’m ready to buy it. Is this the right price? We let our customers make the final decision. Yet, please note that our policy is to set fair and affordable prices for our products. How much for this? Glad you liked it! It costs $34.28. I kind of like the Dragon Stuffed Animals. But am I making the right choice? View the picture gallery, read the product description, look through the customer reviews and see if the Stuffed toy will meet your requirements. We're sure you won't regret it, because it has good value for money. Do you let customers post their photos with your products on Facebook or Instagram? You can post any photos of our products wherever you want. Furthermore, we’d be thankful if you tell your friends about our products and store. ORDERING & STORE POLICIES What if my package gets damaged or is lost during transfer? Please don’t worry about that, because if you don’t receive your package, or it is damaged when shipped, you will get your money back! Can my order include two or more items? We don’t put any limits on your order value, so you can buy as many products as you want. How can I get help with my Stuffed toy purchase? Look at the bottom of the page to see the ways to contact our support service. Feel free to use any of them because we will happily answer any questions on various matters. Will the delivery take as long as you promise? Our estimated delivery time tends to be accurate in the majority of cases; still, please allow for 2-3 days’ difference. Aren’t the identical things available offline? As far as we know, the similar items sold in offline stores have a more limited range of variations and less appealing prices. What makes you better than other stores? It’s our top priority to provide you with the items of the highest quality and first-class customer service. https://just6f.com/dinosaur-plush-toys-dragon-stuffed-animals-pillow-cute-soft-alligator-cartoon-crocodile-doll-birthday-gift-for-kids-girls/?feed_id=3503&_unique_id=635df09791d84

Carrier Cover-

Carrier Cover Service provider Cover is machine-washable for low maintenance. It offers vital sun defense to your baby. Shuts out sunlight rays, insects, and also irritants in the wind as well as air. Durable and durable make; the bottom switch is steel as well as breaks with each other snugly. Some of the pictures make the strong component appear like a beige color, however felt confident the formed and also strong areas both have the very same shade light grey! I liked it even more in person. Essential sunlight security with Carrier Cover Permit your baby to take cover imaginable as well as far from components like dirt or rain with our Carrier Cover. Light, breathable textile maintains your child cool and comfy while an outside UV layer makes certain security from rough sunlight rays. The most effective thing about our open-close child covering? You can play video games of peek-a-boo anywhere with your baby. For nap as well as playtime Carrier Cover is an on-the-go essential An universal fit Our Carrier Cover includes an elastic base band and hassle-free snap cover to affix in position to any baby provider. Ultra-stretch fabric likewise goes above and beyond for a snug fit. Catchin' Z's, undisturbed The velcro and also button closures of the covering allow you to look at your child without waking him or her up. From coastline to park as well as past Wherever you go, you kid can come along too-- as well as stay shielded. Block out sun rays, insects, and also irritants in the wind and air with our Carrier Cover. No setting up + eliminating almost everywhere you go Keep the cover on for your youngster however keep moving-- our Carrier Cover features a wide leading opening to permit your carrier deal with to stand out. Laundry the shield

Our Carrier Cover is hand- as well as machine-washable for low maintenance. Take a breath as well as keep one's cool The light-weight material of our cover permits optimum breathability for your infant while shutting out heat for safe sunlight cover on the hottest of days. Made from love & resourcefulness Lulyboo is a prize-winning brand of ergonomic lounge, coverings, and also on-the-go comfort accessories to make travel as well as everyday needs of modern life simpler for babies (and also their moms and dads). Discover completely Lulyboo can add charm as well as convenience to your life today. I've attempted several covers from various other brands, but this by far the very best one so far! I purchased that online from Auto Merch Mart. Need More Info? supply cost-free across United States in 1-4 days. The design is wonderful, although it's light it cleans conveniently as well as appears like new. One more point I such as about it is the soft Velcro. The product is breathable and soft, wonderful security from the sun. The opening is large enough so I can see my infant through the driving mirror.

Carrier Cover-

Carrier Cover Service provider Cover is machine-washable for low maintenance. It offers vital sun defense to your baby. Shuts out sunlight rays, insects, and also irritants in the wind as well as air. Durable and durable make; the bottom switch is steel as well as breaks with each other snugly. Some of the pictures make the strong component appear like a beige color, however felt confident the formed and also strong areas both have the very same shade light grey! I liked it even more in person. Essential sunlight security with Carrier Cover Permit your baby to take cover imaginable as well as far from components like dirt or rain with our Carrier Cover. Light, breathable textile maintains your child cool and comfy while an outside UV layer makes certain security from rough sunlight rays. The most effective thing about our open-close child covering? You can play video games of peek-a-boo anywhere with your baby.

For nap as well as playtime Carrier Cover is an on-the-go essential An universal fit Our Carrier Cover includes an elastic base band and hassle-free snap cover to affix in position to any baby provider. Ultra-stretch fabric likewise goes above and beyond for a snug fit. Catchin' Z's, undisturbed The velcro and also button closures of the covering allow you to look at your child without waking him or her up. From coastline to park as well as past Wherever you go, you kid can come along too-- as well as stay shielded. Check it Out out sun rays, insects, and also irritants in the wind and air with our Carrier Cover. No setting up + eliminating almost everywhere you go Keep the cover on for your youngster however keep moving-- our Carrier Cover features a wide leading opening to permit your carrier deal with to stand out. Laundry the shield Our Carrier Cover is hand- as well as machine-washable for low maintenance. Take a breath as well as keep one's cool The light-weight material of our cover permits optimum breathability for your infant while shutting out heat for safe sunlight cover on the hottest of days. Made from love & resourcefulness Lulyboo is a prize-winning brand of ergonomic lounge, coverings, and also on-the-go comfort accessories to make travel as well as everyday needs of modern life simpler for babies (and also their moms and dads). Discover completely Lulyboo can add charm as well as convenience to your life today. I've attempted several covers from various other brands, but this by far the very best one so far! I purchased that online from Auto Merch Mart. They supply cost-free across United States in 1-4 days. The design is wonderful, although it's light it cleans conveniently as well as appears like new. One more point I such as about it is the soft Velcro. The product is breathable and soft, wonderful security from the sun. The opening is large enough so I can see my infant through the driving mirror.

Read by way of The Numerous DVD Critiques From The Web-They Can Be Really Functional

A ton of people today nowadays choose for to get on the globe vast internet and go through through earlier mentioned the lots of testimonials that individuals have posted with regards to a issue that you are getting into thought attaining for by oneself, no subject if it is a new dvd that has get there obtainable, tunes, and just about anything else that would be well-known for purchases by a large amount of people today today. It is quite important to shell out close to observe to these quite a few amazing and most valuable on line assessments primarily for the reason that typically moments examining them can prevent you from earning a negative assortment when selecting on to make any form of get for you or another person else. There are regularly new dvd's coming out each individual unique day and examining through the on line critiques that had been composed by men and women just like me and you can be rather practical without having a doubt since it is honest human being to individual individual advantageous details and facts that was put there in hopes of encouraging an specific who is contemplating about make a buy, make the quite very best order so that they are not upset following the uncomplicated point. Your dvd assortment has most likely developed in the course of the many many years and I am authentic specified that most of you have really a couple exclusive dvd's that you do not even inconvenience on the lookout at for the purpose that you did not opt for the time out to analyze any sort of thoughts prepared and posted on the internet, allowing you know whether or not they have been even worthy of any total of pounds invested on them. It is essential to examine these on the internet views so that you do not squander your tough obtained revenue on worthless dvd's that are just most likely to sit there accumulating dust for lots of various a long time to get there. There is no goal, no difficulty how wealthy you are, to at any time just blow your hard cash and by taking the time out of your occupied agenda to in truth go by way of higher than the several wonderful and most easy on the net critiques, you are allowing on your individual the probability to glimpse at what other people picture of what you are thinking about to get hold of, so you can then make your assortment mainly centered on the effective particulars that you collected on the internet. A dvd choice is really just about anything good to have for the reason that there will be a good deal of moments when you can not think about of every thing exceptional to do as an alternative than to sit back again again and enjoy searching at some of your most favourite dvd's. Ordinarily cases there is just almost nothing at all else to do and you all get bored, viewing a Great dvd can severely have you satisfaction and contentment and tons of folks are definitely grateful that they took their time when making their dvd purchases for the cause that now they get the prospect to perspective movement photos that they certainly recognize seeing. There are lots of distinct world wide web websites easily offered to you all on the website wherever by you will have the opportunity to verify out a ton of of the viewpoints that adult males and women have posted about the a variety of new dvd films that have mature to be presented for your possible purchase. IB Online Tutor out them out the up coming time that you think about paying out for on your possess a new dvd, you are significantly heading to be thankful that you did so.

The Commonest Mistakes People Make With Betting

Moreover, you also needs to deal with the software that a betting site uses. England's first remaining for fifty five years is about to be a betting bonanza. The widespread genre of these video games are the primary particular person shooter, motion based mostly ones, role playing games, simulation video games, celebration video games and lot more. First developed by Derek Yu as freeware, then ported to the Xbox 360 in July 2012, the game was then ported to HTML 5 by Darius Kazemi (and made out there as a Chrome app). However the sport retailers are actually allowing you to play games over the internet while you possibly can actually compete the actual human gamers. Here you have the choice to play in opposition to real human players from all around the world. The explanation of the leisure is the motion and the quick response from the human players. On-line video games have modified the style of the people and have influenced virtually each age group, and have given a new world entertainment for which you don’t even need to go out any where. It is not solely a matter of entertainment however some thing else. A very powerful factor to remember when buying picks is to search out somebody or a bunch you trust. These on-line shops offers you with many choices whereas shopping for and likewise providing you with the most recent updates about the game world, you'll be able to the new releases and also read the opinions concerning the product before buying it. The interviews supplied perception into the non-public narratives of recreation players and their motivations for participating in communities related to game enjoying. However they offered small display pleasure. Gaming in front of a display screen with top quality output all the time provides to the enjoyment. On-line games have launched the all new pleasure expertise to the gaming world with the new actual wanting video games with implausible graphics and sound quality. Getting a game from a web-based games retailer offers you with various advantages and skill to compare prices of the same sport on different stores. Getting its reputation the development of net game contests permits the person to play a game on-line with a value-free product because the reward. Clemson and Stanford are also perfect this season, but up to now into the tournament, it is up to these two teams to resolve who's going to play for the Nationwide Championship. https://www.bayfrontcharlotte.com to play the video video games wherever you like is to play the online games. We should find out how these games want a quick web connection like DSL, and why do they need it? Simply you want a computer for gaming and an internet connection. A observe, I do know it is extremely tempting and cheap, search for the picture we need in Google Photos but a budget can end up being expensive, most of these photos are not free of copyright and if we're "caught" they'll sue us for his or her use. There are numerous free gifts offered by these stores on the acquisition. There are numerous games obtainable as X box games, Nintendo games, PSP games and lots of more on various on-line shops that can be surfed by means of the internet. Attain to your favourite sport is straightforward as we speak with these sport shopping portals that helps you with many extra choices and informations on their websites about the specified sport. About us: It is a high danger excessive reward game and the players of this game are normally very seasoned stock market gamers, traders and investors who've had a number of experience of investments. You’ll also be capable of finding tons of knowledge online from people who want to help out others in the same boat as you. Because of this you’ll need to kind rapidly (and precisely) with a view to make it to the upper levels. Pace is what they are counting on, and it needs for us to take quick action in giving what they need. In materials like silk, you can take care this determine-flattering outfit will not can help you down. So so as to supply this characteristic there was a time when the hand-held consoles had been accessible like the PSP video games. To play, use a collaborative spreadsheet program like Google Sheets and select a theme like “choose your individual adventure” or “scrappy recipe generator.” Each team then has as much as 30 minutes to construct a software that matches the theme. In faculty soccer, it is simpler to change personnel in a crew in only one season so it's not really easy to have a regular college football prediction. On-line shopping thus have became very common and of great use to the gamers of the date by which they'll get most worthwhile offers and buy their desired sport in cheapest costs. But the one problem is the non portability of the video recreation consoles.

Starman Chapter Six.

Ezra x OFC. Warnings for drug taking and effects of the same, mentions of attempted suicide and religion, drugging and kidnapping but with the best of intentions. If any of you have seen the newer Battlestar Galactica you will understand where I got the inspiration for the red light 👀 And soft and vulnerable Ezra probably needs his own warning 💖 Word count: 3538

Starman

Chapter Six

Starman

This place was surreal. It reminded him just enough of various other places he had been to to not freak him out entirely, but this was a world he was sure he had never set foot on before. The scientist in him couldn't help but try to catalogue what he was seeing as he slowly walked away from where he had been deposited on the beach, leaning on his companion to stabilise his shaky legs as much as to be close to her.

The sun was a Class 3, yellow and bright and set to be life giving for a good while yet. At least one large body of salt water lapping up against a shore made from yellow sand and multicoloured stones. Green and purple long tendrilled plants on the beach. Other kinds of green plants away from the water, some of these with brightly coloured flowers attached. Some primitive forms of personal transport whose exhaust fumes stank (but no worse than the faliyite processing plants he had toiled in for a while). And there seemed to be a small and harmless domesticated bear (???) of some kind that was accompanying them wherever it was that they were going.

His thoughts were still hazy and dreamlike from the drugs he had taken, even as they sharpened his vision to the point that everything around him took on the quality of a cartoon. He distinctly remembered vomiting as he was hurled into the sea by the force of...whatever it was he had travelled through, and hoped that meant that the effects would wear off soon. Things kept catching his attention, and it wasn't entirely because they were new to him. The stinking plant life on the sand, the grey scars of some unnatural material laid neatly in a long strip outside of her house, sunlight reflecting off the metal things she put into the door to open it. The lingering effects of his failed suicide were still swirling around his brain, making the mundane seem sparkly and fascinating.

Then there was her.

She was the total opposite of mundane. Oh, she was glorious, appearing only as a dark, shapeless silhouette against the brightness of the white sun-infused sky at first. Ezra's addled mind hadn't been able to get a handle on what he had been seeing, but then she had moved and spoken and the fuzzy shape had suddenly resolved into a picture of beauty in front of him. He had tried to focus on her words, but they were drowned out by the vision of her face and the pounding of blood in his ears.

After a brief moment of panic when the remnants of the drugs had convinced him that he was dead after all and that was why her language was incomprehensible, he soon realised that the translator implant in his ear must have gotten water logged or impact damaged by the crash. Curiously, she didn't seem to have one herself, as she could not understand him either and had looked confused when he had tried to ask her about it. But words didn't matter. Not when he felt as if he could look upon her in joy for the remainder of his days, and especially not after she had touched him. Ezra had never felt the like in his life.

When he had first taken her hand, the markings on his arm had ached deliciously. Like the final acceptance of fulfilment after long denial. Like coming into the warmth of home after being freezing and soaked and miserable. Like a shift in his heart from "this is fine" to "this is right". But more than that he had felt his back flare as well. That was a true rarity. The stuff of legend, really. He had been so shocked that he had whipped his hand away from her, instantly regretting doing so and wanting more, a deeper connection, to touch her everywhere if she would allow it.

He could tell that what had passed between them had affected her as well and smiled as he imagined what her markings might look like and the delirious joy they could take in exploring the other. He had always been given to understand that when a fated pair met, it would be as though they had almost telepathic insight into the other. What he was receiving from her was tentative and muted, and he reasoned that perhaps this was her first blooming too. A theory which had been run through later when he had seen the sliver of her body that she had revealed to him.

His mind boggled. What was that? A hole? In her stomach? How did she survive? How did objects not get stuck in there? Or maybe they did and that was just a normal part of life for these people? He had thought himself knowledgeable about the galaxy, but was pretty sure he would have remembered learning about a people who looked just like him, except for that. She had shown him fairly incontrovertible proof that this cavity was the standard here and he was the one who was different.

His mind rifled through the possibilities of just where in the galaxy he could have ended up and drew a blank. A sneaking suspicion began to form. After all no one had ever been near the nebulae, just that one explorer and he had never returned - only the data he had collected and broadcast back had survived. Science fiction writers and the more outlandish scientists had postulated that there might be natural structures out there in the cosmos that provided connections and pathways to other places in the universe, or even other universes entirely. And if this was an place like that then perhaps he had accidentally been granted a last minute reprieve after all.

But it was beyond a reprieve. It was an absolute miracle. To land at the feet of someone who caused such a physical reaction, to make his markings finally quicken, when he had given up his last shred of hope at them doing so many years ago. To finally be faced with a true mate, and even more than that, the person who seemed to be his true mate when he had started to believe that perhaps such a thing really was just a story for children. And if his suspicions were proved founded, then he had traversed an unthinkable gulf in order to get here to her...Ezra's religious leanings had always been strictly performative, but his heart uttered a prayer of pure gratitude to Kevva at that moment for the blessings he was now receiving.

He showed her his arm and the way that she looked at his patterns forced a blooming immensity of feeling through his chest. She was clearly fascinated, so he had to suppose that she had nothing of the sort of her own body. And when she had touched them directly! The electrical currents within him briefly coalesced to shimmer brightly through the swirls there. A rippling rainbow indeed, and one more beautiful than he could ever have imagined. His heart and stomach were a riot of feelings, and images flashed one after the other through his mind, not all of them events from his own life.

Rien's face above him the first time Ezra had truly made love and the blossoming of warmth through him that had accompanied it.

The vision of his homeworld becoming smaller and smaller in the viewport of the ship he had departed on mere days after the conversation with his Uncle and parents in their house, and the sense of relief that he had felt at his belief that he had escaped their clutches.

Her. Sitting on a rock on the beach. Watching the pink and peach tinged waves and sky as the sun disappeared over the watery horizon, and feeling the immensity of love for the beauty of the world that had crept into her heart at that moment.

The dry, dusty, orange landscape of Padorix and the time he had felt freer and more certain than he ever had before or since.

He could feel each individual mark illuminate on his back, feel how the bones there juddered and clicked as his spinal cord crackled with sparks that flew around his body. He had glowed on occasion previously, a dull red travelling up and down his spine if he had a particularly strong orgasm, or when he had felt most connected with...well it had only ever happened with Rien and Kevva alone knew where he was now. But this was beyond anything he had ever experienced before and he couldn't help the moan that had slipped from his lips. That seemed to be too much for her and she took her hand away. His marks had only ever appeared as thin and white, yet now after only a few moments connection with her they had already become more silvery and taken on a stronger form.

She was asking him something again, and finally the translator seemed to have heard enough of her speech to be able to spark to life and latch on to a few words here and there. The root of her language seemed to share something in common with Aegish, an ancient and low language from a planet that had lost most of its native populace during the second galactic expansion. He found himself grateful again, this time for his parents' wealth for once - that they had been able to afford the most expensive translator that could recognise dead languages as well as modern ones. He still couldn't glean her entire meaning, but the cadence of her voice along with the words "are" and "you" gave him a clue and he told her his name, gesturing to himself in case he wasn't clear.

"Ezra," she repeated thoughtfully, and his name sounded like purest nectar from her tongue. She began to unleash a torrent of what sounded like questions. They came too quickly for the translator to keep up, so he only caught a few simple words here and there. "Can't". "What." "Do." "Have."

She looked frustrated when he didn't answer, but he understood that her feelings weren't directed at him, rather at not being able to make herself understood. Instead she picked up the cloths that she had dropped at her feet and handed them to him. As he clutched them against his chest he registered that they were soft and smelled chemically pleasant in a way he couldn't identify.

She fiddled with the objects on top of what Ezra presumed was a tub for washing in, and water began spraying from the part at the top. Ah...a shower. So then the cloths must be for drying or wearing after washing or both. He smiled his understanding at her and she didn't seem to be able to help the grin she returned. Washing time it was then.

Ezra gently pushed the towels back into her arms and began to unbuckle the belt at the waist of the jumpsuit. Her eyes grew wide and she held up a hand to stop him. He paused, puzzled again. How was he to wash if he didn't undress? She carefully placed the pile of cloths on top of a box made of some sort of woven wood, handed him a bottle of something from a shelf, and made her way to the door.

Before exiting, she said something else in a softer tone, the only word of which he understood was "wear". Or possibly "where" - the translator wasn't too clear on that. Didn't...didn't she want to see his body? Did his one arm offend her after all? Or perhaps they had different thoughts about the body here, perhaps it was not to be seen or shared too readily - though she had shown him her stomach hole without any shame.

He sighed. Navigating this world without being able to make himself heard or understood would be a challenge. Though he had some practice at it when he had been forced to move in the upper circles of nobility, when his parents had paraded him in front of the other families like a prized animal, sufficiently fattened and ready for slaughter.

He had always felt so different to the other children of the grand houses. The ones he had met had been so incredibly dull - perfectly content to do as they were told without rebellion and seemingly incapable of thinking about life beyond their own immediate surroundings. Before he had actively turned down proposals, he had managed to make himself as unattractive to them as possible, simply by caring about things other than wealth and the acquisition and retention of the same. Or perhaps they had just been better than him at hiding their own distaste at the path laid out for them, and too scared to deviate from it. He sighed again. If his reckonings were correct, at least he was permanently away from all that now. Not that they would have ever forgiven him for what he had done.

He took off his boots and stripped his jumpsuit and underwear away. As he did so, he caught movement out of the corner of his eye. Himself, reflected. A mirror beautifully wrought in some light metal and that echoed the swirling patterns of his markings was on the wall above a small basin. His jaw dropped as he saw himself for the first time in...well who knew how long the time frame between universes could be? Many days, for a certainty. He moved closer and examined himself.

His dark hair had gone completely white. An unnatural colour, almost. While he had been starting to notice streaks of grey in it and in his beard, this was something quite different. He touched his head gingerly. It still felt like his curls, though they were lank from lack of washing and heavy with encrusted salt from the water. His eyes were sunken from many days of no proper nutrition, bloodshot from the concurrent shocks of being immersed in space and then in saline, and had a strange expression within them. Haunted, wild, unsettled, yet there was a spark of himself in there still. His cheekbones and clavicle stood starkly raised from his skin. Bruises ranging from black to purple to green to yellow were scattered across him, some minor lacerations and grazes too. Old blood was crusted around his nostrils and cuticles.

He shivered, both from the cool air in the bathroom upon his naked skin, and from how he appeared to his own eyes. Half wild and feral but not in a good way. No wonder her reactions had been muted. Still...there had been a reaction, even in this not-groomed, half starved state. Ezra smiled to himself again and stepped into the tub, sighing in satisfaction at the feel of the pattering water upon his abused skin.

He had no idea how long he stood there, enjoying the simple delight of hot water, but grey grime and old blood and even pieces of the beach plant washed from him before he picked up the bottle she had provided. He opened it and a breath of something unknown hit his nose - light and floral, and it reminded him of a young sun filtering through the treetops. The translator was aural only, so the markings on the bottle meant nothing to him. He doubted he would recognise the name of the smell even if she said it anyway. He poured a generous measure onto his chest and soaped his body and hair thoroughly before rinsing, repeating until he felt truly clean and the water that washed from him stayed clear.

Once he felt more himself again, he fiddled with the dials on the tub, making the water extremely hot and then freezing before he worked out how to turn it off completely. The soft cream coloured cloths she had left were within reach and he found they dried his skin and hair well enough. He wondered how to go about leaving the room - she had seemed almost fearful about seeing his naked form before - so he covered as much as himself as he could with the cloths, wrapping them around himself until only his head, feet and hand were poking out.

He needn't have worried. When he cautiously opened the door a bag made of some kind of rustling plastic was sitting there, a pile of clothes inside. A waft of delicious smelling food and noises of sizzling and clattering from the kitchen all but smacked him in the face, and he realised just how faint he felt from hunger as his stomach growled loudly and his mouth began to water.

The smell and the sounds of cooking forcibly reminded him of Cee. The last time they had ever spoken properly had been over a meal. She had wanted them to stick together forever, even though he had tried to explain that life with him wasn't what she needed to pursue, that he wasn't a good father figure and she would know nothing but hardship and violence and the vile underbelly of the seven systems if she stayed with him. She had said she hadn't cared, that he had already been more of a father to her than her own flesh and blood ever had. And for a while after the events of the Green, they had indeed been good travelling companions to each other. But his injury meant he couldn't work as he once had, and her youth only encouraged the gaze of the most wicked eyes and before long destitution and the desperation it bred came closer than either of them could deal with. He couldn't bear to see her even consider the things she might have to do to provide for them.

And so he had done something that had made him hate himself more than she ever could. He had broken the deal he had made many years prior whilst in the depths of a cell in the bowels of the notorious Glasshouse. A deal with his despised Uncle, the terms of which allowed him his freedom from said incarceration and a chance to live. He had given both of those things up for Cee by contacting his parents.

He had begged them to take her in. Claimed her as his own in blood as well as kinship, said he had got her on some bastard of a grandee of a minor house far away. They had to know it was a lie, and even if they hadn't, the truth wouldn't have been very hard to prove. But the continuing overwhelming need for some sort of heir combined with their extreme shock at learning that their errant son was still alive meant that they had grudgingly accepted his account. He had drugged Cee's food on that last night and delivered her to them, knowing full well that she would have never agreed to the terms of her future if she had been conscious. He wasn't proud of his actions, but he absolutely stood by them - the story of his whole existence.

And while his parents didn't go so far as to immediately claim her as their long-lost heir, he had learned during his final incarceration in the skies above his homeworld that they had at least made tentative steps along that road by sending her to one of the best schools in the systems, protecting her with their wealth. Ezra thought that perhaps she could learn to live with that kind of life as he never had. That she would marry a match of their choosing and be happy with her new start. Knowing what he did of her, that seemed unlikely at best, and he hoped that at the very least she would be smart enough to take advantage of the education and safety they were providing and use it to gain the upper hand in life.

He had spoken to her just once via speaker after he had handed her over, and her tone with him down the line had been accusatory and heartbroken, knowing as she did that he had sacrificed everything for her future. Well what else could he have done? In the end he put the child ahead of himself and hoped one day she would come to appreciate it instead of feeling like he had abandoned her.

He brought the bag back into the wash-room and began to dress himself, his body's need to eat and drink suddenly overriding all else. The soft, line-patterned trousers weren't quite long enough and the long sleeved top was also a little short, showing off some of his abdomen and not quite covering his wrist. There was no underwear provided but there was a pair of thick, soft red socks which he put on his cold feet with gratitude. He took a couple of seconds to look at himself once more in the mirror and felt a little better about what he saw. At the very least he wasn't grimy and saltwater-logged anymore. He put his soiled clothes into the bag and went to join his saviour in the kitchen.

Next chapter

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