#Claude: Well this was a productive meeting!
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Something about Rhea and Edelgard singing Respectless from Hazbin Hotel speaks to me.
(“Why are you avoiding war? That what you train your students for!”)
#Claude: Well this was a productive meeting!#fe3h#fire emblem three houses#fire emblem#my silly wittle eagles#edelgard von hresvelg#rhea fe3h#hazbin hotel#respectless
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Book Bites: Volume 1
Hello again! I know it's been a while since I’ve written anything in a while, real life has a way of beating you up sometimes, and while I still want to write book reviews, I also know I don’t have the mental capacity to write long reviews like I used to, so I have come up with a compromise! Introducing Book Bites, quick reviews for the books I’ve been reading recently which I will be simultaneously posting on my Goodreads account, they will be spoiler free unless stated otherwise. I also wanted to let you all know I will be switching to tracking books on Storygraph for the coming year, I’ve started posting on there already, so check out the link in my pinned to follow my account! Please let me know what you think and let's get into it!
The Seventh Veil of Salome – Silvia Moreno-Garcia ☆☆☆☆☆
As soon as I heard that Silvia Moreno-Garcia was publishing a new book I had to place a hold on it at my library through Libby. I’m a huge fan of all of Silvia’s writing so I knew that I was going to love this book as soon as I read it, and I was right! This book tells both the story of the biblical Salome, the woman who ordered the head of John the Baptist, Vera Larios, an unknown Mexican actress who somehow managed to land the coveted role of Salome in the movie production set in the golden age of Hollywood, and Nancy Hartley an unsuccessful actress trying to become a star. The way the books is written is extremely unique, there aren’t any chapters just changing points of view between the three women, and bits where it is written like a documentary based on the movie being made in modern day. While this format is a little weird at first, it really lends to the story telling experience and it makes for a beautifully written ending. I absolutely loved going on this journey with all three women, all facing unique hardships and their unified struggle of a woman trying to be successful in a time where men held all the power. If you love historical fiction and are a fan of golden age Hollywood movies, you’ll love this book but be prepared to go on an emotional rollercoaster with each of these characters.
The Map of Love - Ahdaf Soueif ☆☆☆☆☆
This book was recommended to me by one of my dear friends, and since I love making them read books that I loved, it was my turn to return the favor. The book tells the story of a woman, Isabel, who inherits her great-grandmother, Ana's, suitcase full of her writings, and after some guidance from Omar, an Egyptian American man she has fallen in love with, she travels to Egypt to meet Omar’s sister, Amar, to help her unravel Ana’s hundred year old love story. The book switches points of view between Ana’s journey to Egypt from England and her love story with an Egyptian man, Sharif, and Isabel and Amar’s own struggles in the modern day. The point of view shifts a quite jarring at first, it does take a while to get into, but once you do it's such a good way to tell the story of all three women and the political landscapes of their times. It really puts into perspective how Egypt is such an old country as there is common locations across those hundred years as well as common problems, namely the situation in Palestine which we are still living through twenty-five years after the book was published. I absolutely loved this look into the late-Victorian era and early Edwardian in a country outside the US and UK, though the story is greatly influenced by both. If you want to read some more diverse historical fiction and have the patience for a long and dense book, then I highly recommend this one.
The Honey Witch - Sydney J. Shields ☆☆☆★★
I was once again influenced by TikTok and their rave reviews about this book and decided to check it out at my library. This book is about 21-year-old Marigold Claude, a high society outcast and soon to be spinster who is whisked away by her grandmother to a magical island after finding out that she is the next Honey Witch meant to protect the island, its magical inhabitants, and the people of the nearby town, all while grappling with a curse that prevents her from falling in love and a brewing evil. I was promised by the people of TikTok a witchy sapphic romance and it unfortunately underdelivered, the book took too long establishing the world and magic system, and once things started to get into motion each plot point was connected to the next with very flimsy strings and everything felt super circumstantial and forced. The life altering evil was over and done with in fewer book pages than I would’ve liked, and the romance was written like a bad Wattpad story from 2012. I did give it three stars because I thought all the characters were very compelling, though victims of a subpar story, and the world and magic system that was very well thought out. Honestly, not a bad book, but if you want to read it, I recommend keeping your expectations lower so as to not be disappointed.
#val's book reviews#val's book bite reviews#the seventh veil of salome#silvia moreno garcia#the map of love#ahdaf soueif#the honey witch#sydney j shields#book review#bookblr
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The Price May Be Right - Honorable Mentions
Welcome to “The Price May Be Right!” Starting tomorrow, I’ll be counting down My Top 31 Favorite Vincent Price Performances & Appearances! The countdown will cover movies, TV productions, and many more forms of media…and the same goes for today’s post. Before the countdown begins in earnest, today I want to present some Honorable Mentions. These Twisted Ten Performances ALMOST made the cut, but not quite…
1. Dr. Malcolm Wells, from The Bat.
“The Bat” is considered one of Price’s earliest and most iconic successes. It’s a bit ironic because, in the film, Price does not play the main antagonist, nor even the main protagonist, but simply a supporting role. This murder mystery feature focuses on a detective story author, Cornelia Van Gorder – played by Agnes Moorehead – who finds herself hunted by a shadow serial killer known as The Bat. In the story, Dr. Wells is a friend of Van Gorder’s: a physician and scientist who has a strange interest in the study of bats. Right from the start, we know that Wells is not all he seems to be, as – near the beginning of the film – Wells finds out that Van Gorder’s associate, a banker named Fleming, has swindled money from his own bank. He murders Fleming and covers up the crime, intending to find where the man hid the loot and take it all for himself. As it turns out, the Bat is seeking the same treasure, putting the killer and Dr. Wells on a collision course. Despite only playing a supporting part in the story, Price’s fame was already so highly on the rise that he received top billing at the time, and continues to receive it to this day. The film is a simple but effective little “Whodunnit?” with a dark and Gothic edge: it’s no wonder it’s still considered a highlight in the man’s career.
2. Geoffrey Radcliffe, from The Invisible Man Returns.
This was essentially Vincent’s start in the genre where he would be most well-known: horror films. “The Invisible Man Returns” is the sequel to the original 1933 film “The Invisible Man,” starring Claude Rains and based on the H.G. Wells novel of the same name. In this film, Vincent plays Geoffrey Radcliffe: a wrongly condemned gentleman who has been framed for the murder of his brother. Radcliffe meets Frank Griffin – the brother of the original Invisible Man – while in prison, and discovers that Frank somehow learned the secret of the invisibility serum from his brother before Jack eventually went insane and faced his final fate. Seeking revenge on those who framed him and killed and his own brother, Geoffrey convinces Frank to inject him with the serum, and thus goes on a quest to catch the real murderers and clear his name. It’s a race against time, for the drugs used to create the infamous potion cause one to steadily regress in sanity over time: Radcliffe has to fight through the mental-maddening concoction, and find some way to stop the criminals…before he becomes a mad killer himself. The film paces a lot of the same territory as the first movie, but with a few special twists, such as the revenge plot and the fact that Radcliffe actually gets a happy ending in comparison to Jack Griffin. Price was a superb choice to take over for Claude Rains, given his own mellifluous voice and elegant physical performances. Indeed, Price would technically play the character more often than Rains: eight years after the film’s debut, Price would reprise the role for a brief and humorous cameo at the end of the horror-comedy classic, “Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein.”
3. His Appearance on Holiday Startime.
“Holiday Startime” was a Christmas variety special that aired in 1970. It featured a series of bizarre and humorous sketches, all played by popular actors of the time period. Arguably the most famous sketch from the special was Vincent Price’s appearance. Price, beyond his work as actor, was known as a gourmet and talented cook. He was also known for his love of wine. The sketch parodies both of these elements, as Price – satirizing popular cooking shows – performs a silly skit where he tries to recycle various holiday leftovers…all while staggeringly intoxicated. The sequence is riotously funny, and – as you would expect with something from Vincent Price – ends with a little jab at his horror career, with a spoof on Jekyll & Hyde that results from Vincent drinking an unusual cocktail. It’s eight-and-a-half minutes of complete silliness that’s well worth looking up.
4. James Reavis, from The Baron of Arizona.
While I don’t think this Western has aged particularly well, due to some of its subject matter, Price’s performance in the picture is still quite laudable. “The Baron of Arizona” tells the (fictionalized, of course) true story of James Reavis: a notorious con artist who tried to convince the United States Government to give him full control over the state of Arizona, by claiming a young girl he is attached to – Sofia – is a long-lost aristocrat with a land claim on the state, and then marrying her once she is old enough, so he can inherit the properties. Both the film and the character carry much ambiguity: Reavis is a scoundrel, and as the film goes on his actions become increasingly despicable, but even up to the very end it’s hard to completely hate him. His motivations for why he does what he does turn out to have some surprising empathy to them, and his relationship with Sofia – while EXTREMELY bizarre – does have its touching moments. While he only sees her as a means to an end at first, as time comes on he does learn to care about her, and she, in turn, admires him. The movie is somewhat forgotten today, but it’s worth checking out, despite its more bizarre elements.
5. The Magic Mirror, from Faerie Tale Theatre.
Price appeared twice on this television series, which adapted numerous classic fairy-tales and fantasy stories in a deliberately theatrical manner, hence its title. Every episode featured an all-star cast to help boost it up. In one episode, “The Boy Who Left Home to Find Out About the Shivers,” Price acts simply as the offscreen narrator; his presence is not a coincidence, as the episode pays subtle homage to classic horror, with actors like David Warner and Christopher Lee having roles in the story, and making numerous references to Dracula and other chillers. However, even more noteworthy than that is Price’s role as the Magic Mirror, in the show’s adaptation of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Left to act with nothing but his face and voice, Price manages to become possibly the best part of the episode, and an excellent foil to Lynn Redgrave’s wildly over-the-top depiction of the Evil Queen. Alongside the Disney version, his Magic Mirror is quite possibly my favorite take on the concept…mostly BECAUSE it’s Vincent Price doing it, to be fair.
6. Michael Bastion, from The Snoop Sisters.
“The Snoop Sisters” was a four-episode-long murder mystery miniseries that aired between December of 1973 and March of 1974. The four episodes were the disconnected adventures of two loveable old biddies – the titular Snoop Sisters – who continuously find themselves roped into “Whodunnit?” plots. (As you do.) In the fourth and final story, “A Black Day for Bluebeard,” Price plays a friend of the sisters, Michael Bastion: a once-renowned but now fading film star who is looking to find a way to rekindle his career. When his wife is murdered, Bastion is accused, and the Sisters need to find a way to save him from persecution. In a way, Bastion is Price playing an exaggerated and humorous self-parody: like Vincent, Bastion is an actor known for his hammy acting style and proficiency in horror movies. Also like Vincent, Bastion is a connoisseur of wine and fine foods. My, what perfect typecasting. :P
7. Oscar Wilde, from Diversions & Delights.
It grieves me to leave this performance out of the main running, but I feel it’s the only fair thing to do. “Diversions & Delights” was a one-man show Price performed on Broadway, late in his career. It was a biographical play about the life and times of Oscar Wilde, as told by Wilde himself. Many critics who saw the performance in its time considered it to be quite possibly Vincent Price’s Magnum Opus: reviews applauded the sensitive and subtle way he portrayed Wilde, while still having a sense of needed flamboyance and charismatic stage presence, befitting both the part and the show. Unfortunately, I’ve never actually SEEN this stage show. I was lucky enough to find an audio recording someone made of the play, but due to both the age/quality of that recording, and the fact that I feel plays really do need to be SEEN to be fully appreciated, I don’t think it’s fair to give Price’s performance here a place in the Top 31. This is the ONLY reason I give this a mere Honorable Mention; if you can find a recording of this show somewhere, I urge you strongly to give it a listen or a watch.
8. Professor Jarrod, from House of Wax.
Much like “The Invisible Man Returns,” this is another classic Price horror outing that many claim jumpstarted his career in fright films. Indeed, Price’s portrayal of Professor Jarrod – the demented master of a wax museum, where people are secretly turned into dummies on display – is considered one of his most recognized and popular performances. Honestly, there’s not much to say here except that, while I DO love Price’s performance in this film, and the film in general, I just like other roles and performances more, or at least find there’s more I have to say about them.
9. Professor Multiple, from Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea.
“Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea” was a 1960s TV series that can best be described as “Star Trek, But Underwater.” It focused on the sci-fi adventures of a group of submarine explorers, with stories that ranged from the horrifying to the kooky. Price’s appearance in the episode “The Deadly Dolls” falls somewhere in the middle. In this episode, Price plays master puppeteer Professor Multiple, who is hired to entertain the crew aboard the submarine for a while. (He’s surprisingly good at it.) However, after the show is over, Multiple is revealed to have darker ulterior motives, as his puppets come to life and begin replacing the members of the crew, as the first part of a mad scheme to – you guessed it – take over the world. The mystery of these living puppets, why they’re doing what they do, and where they all come from is what drives the plot. As the story goes on, it becomes clear that Multiple himself is not all he seems…but I mustn’t say more, or I shall spoil the rest of the story.
10. The Narrator, for The Town Too Tough to Die.
This is a very different option on the list, but it’s one I just HAD to bring up. If you go on a trip to Tombstone, Arizona, you will find a little building called “The Historama.” Inside is a theater where you can see a special documentary film called “The Town Too Tough to Die,” which details the history of Tombstone and a lot of its most famous historical events. Not only does the documentary feature footage, but live practical effects in the form of a huge model that takes through different time periods in Tombstone, with working animatronics and effects. All of this is narrated by the late, great Vincent Price. I got to visit this attraction during a trip to Tombstone almost a decade ago, and I have never forgotten it. If you ever get a chance to see this attraction yourself, do so; it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Like I said, tomorrow, the countdown shall begin with my 31st Favorite Vincent Price Performance. There will be no hints for THIS countdown, so you’ll just have to wait and see what surprises are in store. ;)
#list#countdown#honorable mentions#the price may be right#top 31 vincent price performances#vincent price#actors#acting#theatre#movies#film#tv#animation#music#and more
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✦ KATIE MCGRATH, CISFEMALE, SHE/HER ✦ REAGAN DUNNE the THIRTY-FIVE year old has been in Hidehill for TWO DAYS and was a STRANGER to Carter Thompson, one of the shadows. Whispers on the streets are that the LA VELA SECURITY who lives in HIDE SQUARE are said to be MOODY and RESOURCEFUL but I guess we’ll find out for ourselves.
FULL NAME: reagan claude dunne NICKNAMES: reagan, rea, rc AGE: 35 / february 13th, 1988 GENDER & PRONOUNS: cisfemale, she/her FACECLAIM: katie mcgrath HEIGHT: 5’5” SEXUALITY: bisexual OCCUPATION: security at la vela
( tw: infidelity )
reagan claude dunne, born february 13th, 1988, her mother was working as an escort before she finally came to the picture, as her father isn’t in it, a topic which she has prohibited a young reagan to ever talk about. maybe it was the very first thing that has caused the disconnect between the mother and daughter, feeling like her mother was walled up, that she didn’t know her. in return, reagan started to keep things to herself. this has caused a rift on her path, leading her to meet people that would do nothing good in her life. a bad apple is the simplest way that one could ever describe her at a young age, of course, she’d still be in school, but instead of doing the things kids her age usually does, exploring the world, learning, she was also out in the streets, lifting watches, wallets, you name it, it would disappear into thin air and into her pockets. she had learned all these to survive, to, in a way, lighten the burden of her mother providing for the both of them without her knowing, since she’d be working for someone older and would be having her share. the small petty crimes eventually get bigger as she gets older. reagan was a smart, young woman, with her potential wasted in the streets and not where she could be and deserved to be.
reagan slowly moved up to ranks, and she was earning way more than what would get her and her mother through the day, which did make her question her daughter at one point, but believed, trusted that it was clean money, that she was just good at her job, well, of course, reagan was, her mother just didn’t know the whole nature of it. it was where she also met the very person whom she thought was going to be by her side forever, someone she could consider her partner, not just with their work, but her life. they had recently become the brainpower of the whole operation, which reagan was the fence, shipping stolen goods, jewelries, fake artworks, you name it, who made sure things kept moving accordingly to how it should be, somehow the face of it all. everything was going the way reagan had envisioned for it to be, but all of it was just a nice thought, somewhat a dream.
when she was met the slap of reality out of nowhere.
one morning, the couple woke up with their door being kicked down by authorities who had been watching her for months, given how she had been the face, it was her name on the papers, her signatures, she had unknowingly let herself take the fall of it all, with who was supposedly the person she considered her partner washed their hands clean and claimed that they had no idea about the nature of reagan’s work, their work. she had not said a worth throughout, not even with a lawyer, and accepted the consequences. though, before she was sent to prison for her sentence, her mother met with her, and had revealed to her as to why she had never told her anything about her father. reagan was a product of infidelity, and that...she actually has a half-brother. brandon harris. the name lived in her head for years, her mind deadset on meeting him, perhaps the reason she had been released earlier due to good behavior.
it was that very knowledge that had caused for reagan to start cleaning her act up, it may be many years too late, but she wanted for her brother to meet her and not see the way she was before, but what she is trying to change into, for the better. to not be the selfish woman she once was, just live a life as normal as she could. though, would that be possible when she finds out that the town her brother lives in is far from normal itself?
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THREE BETWEEN THE SHEETS
ECSTASY (1984) - BLACK VENUS (1983) - MELODY OF PASSION (1985)
Indulge your ‘80s fantasies with two softcore classics produced by Harry Alan Towers (99 Women, Franco’s Count Dracula): In Black Venus, former Miss Bahamas Josephine Jacqueline Jones (Love Circles) leads a sumptuous orgy of Victorian lust co-starring Florence Guérin (Faceless), Karin Schubert (Black Emanuelle), Helga Liné (Black Candles) and Profumo Affair temptress Mandy Rice-Davies. Drive-in goddess Tiffany Bolling (The Candy Snatchers) stars in Ecstasy – also known as Love Scenes – as a Hollywood actress caught between reel passion and her own erotic hungers that include Britt Ekland, Julie Newmar, Monique Gabrielle and Jack Carter. As a Bonus, Austrian centerfold Sonja Martin (Red Heat, Emmanuelle IV) stars in Melody of Passion from director Hubert Frank (Vanessa), with all three features scanned in 2K from their original negatives.
ECSTASY (1984)
Label: Severin Films
Region Code: Region-Free
Rating: Unrated
Duration: 90 Minutes
Audio: English DTS-HD MA 2.0 Mono with Optional English Subtitles
Video: 1080p HD Widescreen (1.85:1)
Director: Bud Towsend
Cast: Franc Luz, Tiffany Bolling, Julie Newmar, Jack Carter, Britt Ekland, Daniel Pilon
In the Playboy Channel produced Ecstasy (1984) (aka Love Scenes) up and coming director Peter Binnes (Franc Luz, Ghost Town) has just won a critics choice award, and looking to cash-on this windfall her tries to get a new erotic thriller, penned by Belinda (Julie Newmar, Catwoman from the 60's Batman TV series!), into production, but his cigar-chompin' producer Sidney (Jack Carter, Alligator) says that no studio wants to finance an erotic film without some star power. Luckily Peter's wife Val (Tiffany Bolling, Kingdom of the Spiders) is a renowned actress, but she's never done nudity in film before. After some prompting from her hubby, as well as some reinforcement from a photographer friend Annie (Britt Ekland, The Wicker Man) she agrees to do the film, but with reservations.
Problems soon arise when the leading man in the erotic thriller, Rick (Daniel Pilon, Scanners III - The Takeover), who well-known for being a hand-on lothario ends up unexpectedly igniting Val's libido, and she embarssingly climaxes while film is rolling during their first filmed hook-up. This very real moment of passion exacerbates Val's mundane faked-orgasm sex life with her director-husband. Conflicted by her attraction to her co-star Val worries that her married life is on the rocks, but the self-obsessed Peter is too consumed with making his film to worry too much about his wife's concerns. This is a fun lightweight bit of softcore erotica that is heavy on the daytime soap opera drama vibes, but does feature some titillating softcore nudity, and it's capably directed by Bus Townsend (Nightmare In Wax). The film is less tawdry that I would have liked, and is lousy with sax-heavy score, but plenty entertaining, and getting an eyefull of drive-in goddess Tiffany Bolling (Candy Snatchers, Bonnie's Kids) nude is always a pleasure, and both Ekland and Newmar seem to be having a blast in their non-nude roles,
Special Features:
- Trailer (50 sec)
BLACK VENUS (1983)
Label: Severin Films
Region Code: Region-Free
Rating: Unrated
Duration: 95 Minutes
Audio: English, French, German DTS-HD MA 2.0 Mono with Optional English Subtitles
Video: 1080p HD Widescreen (1.66:1)
Director: Claude Mulot
Cast: José Antonio Ceinos, Josephine Jacqueline Jones, Florence Guérin, Emiliano Redondo
Another Playboy Channel produced slice of erotica, Black Venus (1984) directed by Claude Mulot (The Blood Rose), is a Victorian era set erotic film that begins with penniless sculptor Armand (José Antonio Ceinos, Leonor) meeting the gorgeouse Venus (Josephine Jacqueline Jones, Christina). Entranced by her beauty she becomes his muse and lover, and he sets about sculpting a statue of her likeness. With no source of income from his artwork Venus begins working as a model at a fashion house, but the attention she draws and the money she makes proves to be a blow to his ego, he drowns his sorrows in drinks, and Venus ends up leaving him, embarking on sexual adventures with a horny wealthy couple, but growing tired of being exploited by others, she teams-up with Louise (Florence Guérin, Faceless) to work at a brothel, until Armand, no longer tortured, returns to reclaim his muse.
Black Venus has some solid period set production value, conjuring the Victorian era convincingly for a low-budget film, it's attractively lensed, and is well-acted, not to mention chock full of nudity and actual erotic scenes that are a turn on. This one also has a bookend scenes of an older gent (Emiliano Redondo, The People Who Own The Dark), who is turned on by being a voyeur, touring a brothel down a secret hallway that allows him to peep through two-way mirrors to witness the sexy cosplay shenanigans happening inside themed rooms where people indulge in fantasies involving pirates, slaves, and kings.
Special Features:
- Trailer
MELODY OF PASSION (1985)
Label: Severin Films
Region Code: Region-Free
Rating: Unrated
Duration: 91 Minutes
Audio: English or German DTS-HD MA 2.0 Mono with Optional English Subtitles
Video: 1080p HD Widescreen (1.66:1)
Director: Hubert Frank
Cast: Sonja Martin, Montse Bayo, Marina Oroza, Klaus Münster, Martin Garrido
The final titillating softcore delight is Hubert Frank's Melody of Passion (aka La chica que cayó del Cielo) German gal Betty (Sonja Martin, Emmanuelle IV) is notified that she has inherited a family castle in Spain. Arriving there she finds the castle and learns from the lawyer handling the estate, Don Cervantes, that it might be haunted and more trouble than it's worth, and insists that she should sell it to him sight unseen. Now this guy has reasons for wanting the castle, in that he is partnered with a madame and they are running a profitable high-class brothel within it's stone walls!
This is certainly the most offbeat of the bunch this Austrian-Spanish co-production throws a little bit of everything into the mix. We get the expected softcore delights, plentiful nudity, some nice atmosphere, plus a robbery, high-speed car chase, Gothic horror elements and quite a bit more. The tone is uneven to say the least but the unexpected camp-factor and exploitation entertainment quotients are through the roof, making this wild slice of Euro-rotica the best of the bunch in my estimation.
Audio/Video: All three films make their North American Blu-ray debuts from Severin Films on region-Free Blu-ray presented in 1080p HD widescreen. Both Black Venus and Melody of Passion are framed in 1.66:1 while Ecstasy gets 1.85:1. These are advertised as being scanned in 2K from the original negatives, and they look pretty terrific. Film grain is unmolested and organic, colors and skin tones look natural throughout. Audi comes by way of uncompressed DTS-HD MA Mono with optional English subtitles. Ecstasy gets uncompressed English while Melody of Passions has both German and English audio options, with Black Venus sporting English, German, and French audio options. All the tracks are clean and free of issues, a bit limited in range, but clean and well-balanced. Extras are anemic, we only get trailers for Black Venus and Ecstasy, so that is a disappointing, I would have loved commentary tracks on these, but the HD upgrades are appreciated and blow away the previous DVD editions. The three disc release arrives in a black keepcase with a single sides sleeve of artwork, inside a flipper tray houses the three films on separate discs with separate artworks.
If you're looking to indulge in some vintage ‘80s softcore fantasies Severin has you covered with this titillating triple-threat collection. The extras are slim but the A/V is wonderful, and the erotic delights are plentiful. The three films are handsomely produced for what they are and look fantastic in HD. The films range from horny melodrama, to sleazy Victorian debauchery, and bonkers 80's raunchiness - it's a wonderful assortment of vintage erotica that all lovers of softcore should have on their shelf.
http://mcbastardsmausoleum.blogspot.com/2023/04/three-between-sheets-severin-films-blu.html?m=1
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Elasticsearch
NLP
Wit.ai
Dialogflow
Amazon Lex
Luis
Watson Assistant
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ChatPlayground AI Review — A Powerful Multi-Model AI Platform
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an indispensable tool for professionals across various industries. From content creation and software development to data analysis and customer service, AI-driven platforms are streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity. Among the myriad of AI tools available, ChatPlayground AI has emerged as a noteworthy contender, offering a unique suite of features designed to meet the diverse needs of its users.
In this review, we delve into the functionalities, benefits, pricing, and overall value proposition of ChatPlayground AI to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your professional toolkit.
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What is ChatPlayground AI?
ChatPlayground AI is a versatile platform that integrates multiple advanced AI models into a single, unified interface. By providing access to renowned AI models such as ChatGPT-4, Google Gemini 1.5 Pro, Claude 3 Opus, Bing Copilot, Llama, and Perplexity, ChatPlayground AI enables users to harness the strengths of each model, facilitating more accurate and comprehensive outputs.
Whether you are a developer looking to optimize code suggestions, a content creator seeking diverse writing styles, or a researcher requiring up-to-date information, ChatPlayground AI offers tools tailored to enhance your productivity and creativity.
Key Features of ChatPlayground AI
ChatPlayground AI comes with a wide range of powerful features that can help AI efforts. Some key features of ChatPlayground AI include:
Multi-Model Interaction
ChatPlayground AI allows users to interact with leading AI models such as ChatGPT-4, Google Gemini 1.5 Pro, Claude 3 Opus, Bing Copilot, and others. This feature enables users to compare outputs, gather diverse insights, and achieve more accurate results by leveraging the strengths of each model.
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Real-Time Web Search
Unlike many AI tools that rely on static knowledge bases, ChatPlayground AI provides real-time web search capabilities. This ensures that users receive up-to-date and accurate information, making it an invaluable tool for professionals who need current data.
Customizable Prompts
The platform offers an extensive library of pre-configured prompts, along with the ability to create and save custom prompts. This flexibility allows users to tailor the AI’s responses to their specific needs, whether for content creation, technical queries, or research.
Write and edit faster
You’ll get access to an AI document editor that can mimic your tone and writing style to speed up your writing process.
Capitalize, shorten, expand, or improve any section of text with one-click shortcuts
Generate text on any topic in seconds with over 100 prompts for everyday scenarios
Create visuals for your articles to help boost reader engagement
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PDF Interaction
ChatPlayground AI allows users to upload and interact with PDF documents. Extracting information, summarizing content, and asking questions related to the document are all streamlined within the platform, making it easier for professionals to manage and analyze large volumes of text.
Multilingual Support
With support for over 100 languages, ChatPlayground AI is ideal for international projects and multilingual content creation, breaking down language barriers and expanding the platform’s utility across global teams.
Integrated Image Generation
Content creators can benefit from ChatPlayground AI’s ability to generate high-quality images based on text descriptions, adding a visual element to their work and enhancing creative projects.
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Who Should Use ChatPlayground AI?
ChatPlayground AI is well-suited for a wide range of professionals:
Developers: Ideal for testing and refining code with the help of multiple AI models.
Content Creators: Beneficial for generating diverse content and visuals quickly and efficiently.
Researchers: Essential for accessing real-time information and interacting with complex documents.
Educators: Valuable for enhancing research and educational materials with multilingual support and AI-driven insights.
ChatPlayground AI AppSumo Lifetime Deal at $59
ChatPlayground AI offers a range of pricing plans designed to accommodate various needs and budgets, from individual entrepreneurs to large enterprises. The pricing is competitive, especially given the extensive suite of features provided.
For an exceptional value, explore the ChatPlayground AI Lifetime Deal on AppSumo. ChatPlayground AI is offered as a one-time purchase with lifetime access, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to avoid recurring subscription costs. This deal includes all future updates to the platform, ensuring continued value over time.
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Conclusion
ChatPlayground AI offers a comprehensive suite of tools that can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of professionals across various fields. Its multi-model interaction, real-time web search, customizable prompts, and multilingual support make it a standout choice in the crowded AI marketplace. Whether you’re a developer, content creator, researcher, or educator, ChatPlayground AI provides the features and flexibility needed to elevate your work to the next level.
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Try DuckDuckGo AI Chat for Private Conversations
DuckDuckGo AI Chat
AI chatbots are the latest innovation from DuckDuckGo, the search engine that protects user privacy. DuckDuckGo AI Chat, their latest product, prioritises user anonymity while enabling users to communicate with some of the most potent language models out there. As a privacy-aware substitute for current chatbot systems, this action represents a substantial change in the AI field.
DuckDuckGo AI Search
With a variety of conversation models, each with unique characteristics and capabilities, DuckDuckGo AI conversation is sure to please. The four models that are currently on the market are shown here:
OpenAI’s ChatGPT 3.5 Turbo
Powerhouse models like this one are renowned for their capacity to translate languages, create original text formats, and provide insightful answers to your queries. It is the tool of choice for ideation, producing many forms of artistic content, and gaining a broad grasp of a subject.
Claude 3 Haiku by Anthropic Art
Preciseness of facts and security are given top priority in this paradigm. It is quite good at summarising complicated subjects and performs exceptionally well in situations requiring dependable information retrieval. See Claude as your go-to person for help sifting through the clutter to locate reliable sources for your research.
Meta’s Llama 3 70B
A mix between originality and factuality can be found in Meta’s Llama 3 70B, an open-source solution. It can translate across languages, produce a variety of imaginative text layouts, and provide you with enlightening answers to your queries, making it a useful tool for most jobs.
Blender 8x7B by Mistral AI
Code-focused features are a hallmark of Mistral AI, another open-source architecture. It can translate between different programming languages, write various types of code, and provide you with enlightening answers to your programming-related queries. Mistral may be the ideal choice if you’re a developer searching for an intelligent assistant.
AI DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo AI answers to a range of user requirements with this first choice. There is an AI model waiting to interact with you on your terms, whether you’re looking for factual information, creative inspiration, or just a thought-provoking conversation companion.
The Foundation of DuckDuckGo
Its unrelenting dedication to user privacy is one of DuckDuckGo AI Chat’s most important features. In contrast to a lot of other chatbot platforms, DuckDuckGo guarantees that every communication is 100 percent anonymous. How they accomplish this is as follows:
IP Masking
DuckDuckGo AI facilitates communication between you and chat models. This essentially anonymizes your interaction because DuckDuckGo’s servers are sending the queries, hiding your IP address.
No Retention of Data
DuckDuckGo’s servers don’t keep a record of any chat conversations. A contractual requirement requires the underlying model suppliers to remove this data after 30 days, without the ability to trace it back to you, even though they may temporarily preserve interactions for system maintenance.
Model supplier Agreements
DuckDuckGo has rigorous agreements in place with every chat model supplier. To further protect your privacy, these agreements further prohibit the use of the anonymised chat data for model training or improvement.
Interface That’s Easy to Use for Smooth Communication
It’s easy to engage with AI models because to DuckDuckGo AI Chat’s intuitive UI. These are the salient characteristics:
Model Selection
During the course of your conversation, you are free to select the chat model that best meets your needs. Just pick your favourite by clicking on the name of the model that is currently visible in the sidebar.
Preset Prompts
DuckDuckGo has pre-programmed prompts to help you get started with typical tasks such as studying a topic, sending an email, or obtaining technical assistance. In addition to helping you make the most of the AI model, these prompts serve as a launchpad for discussion.
Clear Chat History
To maintain privacy, all it takes is a single button click to clear your chat history. By just clicking the “Fire” button, you can erase the entirety of your chat history and guarantee that your interactions stay totally private.
The Prospects for AI Chat on DuckDuckGo
Though it’s still early, DuckDuckGo AI Chat’s future suggests some fascinating opportunities. A preview of what to expect is as follows:
Adding to the Model Library
In order to provide customers with an even greater selection of AI personalities, DuckDuckGo intends to complement their current chat model library with additional models.
Improved Browser Integration
DuckDuckGo is investigating a direct browser integration of AI Chat to create a more seamless experience and make it even simpler to use these potent language models.
Power User Subscription Packages
We’re working on a paid subscription tier that will provide customers access to more sophisticated (and possibly more expensive) conversation models as well as larger daily limits.
An Emerging Era for AI Interaction with a Privacy Focus
For those concerned about their privacy, DuckDuckGo AI Chat is a big step forward. With DuckDuckGo, people can explore AI possibilities on their own terms by providing access to sophisticated language models without sacrificing user privacy.
Read more on Govindhtech.com
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Unlocking Innovation: Exploring the Advancements of Claude AI Pro
I
In the fast-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, innovative solutions are continuously reshaping how we approach various challenges. Among the emerging players is Claude AI Pro, a cutting-edge AI platform that is making waves in the field. In this article, we delve into the features, applications, and potential impact of Claude AI Pro on industries and everyday life.
Understanding Claude AI Pro:
Claude AI Pro is an advanced artificial intelligence platform designed to offer a wide array of functionalities across different domains. Developed with state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms and a user-friendly interface, Claude AI Pro stands out for its versatility and adaptability.
Key Features:
Natural Language Processing (NLP):
Claude AI Pro boasts powerful natural language processing capabilities, allowing it to understand and interpret human language with remarkable accuracy. This feature enables more intuitive interactions, making it a valuable tool for chatbots, virtual assistants, and customer support systems.
Deep Learning Capabilities:
Leveraging deep learning algorithms, Claude AI Pro excels in handling complex tasks and recognizing intricate patterns. This makes it suitable for applications ranging from image and speech recognition to predictive analytics in various industries.
Customization and Integration:
One of Claude AI Pro's standout features is its adaptability to diverse business needs. Users can customize the platform to meet specific requirements, and it seamlessly integrates with existing systems, enhancing efficiency without disrupting established workflows.
Applications Across Industries:
Customer Service and Support:
With its robust NLP capabilities, Claude AI Pro is well-suited for enhancing customer service operations. It can efficiently handle customer queries, provide relevant information, and streamline issue resolution processes through virtual assistants.
Healthcare Diagnostics:
In the healthcare sector, Claude AI Pro's deep learning capabilities prove invaluable for diagnostics. It can analyze medical images, identify patterns, and assist healthcare professionals in making more accurate and timely diagnoses.
Financial Predictive Analytics:
Financial institutions benefit from Claude AI Pro's predictive analytics features. The platform can analyze vast datasets, identify market trends, and offer insights that assist in making informed investment decisions.
E-commerce Personalization:
E-commerce platforms leverage Claude AI Pro to enhance user experience through personalized recommendations. By understanding user preferences and behavior, the platform suggests products, improving customer satisfaction and boosting sales.
Educational Assistance:
In the education sector, Claude AI Pro can be used for personalized learning experiences. By adapting to individual learning styles, it can provide tailored educational content and support, fostering better understanding and retention.
Future Implications:
As Claude AI Pro continues to evolve, its impact on various industries is likely to expand. The platform's adaptability and multifaceted capabilities position it as a versatile solution for addressing the complex challenges of the digital age.
Conclusion:
Claude AI Pro represents a significant stride forward in the realm of artificial intelligence. Its blend of natural language processing, deep learning capabilities, and customization options make it a standout choice for businesses and industries seeking innovative AI solutions. As the platform continues to evolve, it is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping how we approach tasks and challenges across diverse sectors, heralding a new era of AI-driven innovation.
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Lessons from Claude's Journey: Overcoming Adversity to Achieve Success
The Rise of Claude: A Story of Perseverance and Innovation
Claude, a brand that has taken the AI industry by storm, has a story that is both inspiring and instructive. Founded by a team of experts in the field, Claude has overcome numerous obstacles to become a leader in the industry. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global brand, Claude's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation.
The Importance of Innovation in the AI Industry
The AI industry is constantly evolving, and innovation is key to staying ahead of the curve. Claude has been at the forefront of this innovation, developing cutting-edge technology that has revolutionized the industry. By investing in research and development, Claude has been able to stay ahead of its competitors and maintain its position as a leader in the field.
The Role of Diversity in Claude's Success
Claude's success can also be attributed to its commitment to diversity. The company has a diverse team of experts from different backgrounds and cultures, which has allowed it to approach problems from a variety of perspectives. This diversity has also helped Claude to better understand its customers and develop products that meet their needs.
The Future of Claude and the AI Industry
The future looks bright for Claude and the AI industry as a whole. With new advancements in technology and an increasing demand for AI solutions, Claude is well-positioned to continue its growth and success. As the industry continues to evolve, Claude will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping its future. Article by None Shock! It's amazing how magical this thing is claude.
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Stomach Issues? Solve Digestion & Constipation by Doing This
Digestion is a process by which food is broken down into smaller pieces so that the body can use these nutrients to build and nourish cells, which provides energy.
As William Beaumont and Claude Bernard first discovered 150 years ago, digestion involves a chemical breakdown of the macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) in foods and beverages into smaller and smaller nutrients that the body can absorb, assimilate, and utilize.
The digestive system is made up of the digestive tract, which consists of a long tube of organs that runs from the mouth to the anus—there’s the A word again—and includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. While we’re talking about what’s inside the gut, we might as well add the liver, gall bladder, and pancreas, which produce important secretions for digestion that drain into the small intestine. The digestive tract in an adult is about 30 feet long, or the length of a ten-yard sideline marker used on the gridiron. Think about how long your intestine is the next time you watch an NFL umpire stretch the “chains” to see if the team on offense gained enough yardage to earn another first down.
Digestion begins the instant you take a bite of an apple or lift a forkful of food into your mouth, even though digestive secretions can begin when you smell dinner being prepared in the kitchen. Like the choreographed chaos that ensues after a quarterback yells “Hut” to start a play, all sorts of physiological things happen when you begin chewing on food. Saliva, or spit, charges out of its three-point stance and floods the mouth when the salivary glands (located under the tongue and near the lower jaw) begin producing saliva. Saliva moistens food so that it will be easier to swallow and contains a digestive enzyme called ptylin, which is a salivary amylase. Ptylin gets to work breaking down the carbohydrates, or starches and sugars, in each bite of food.
One of the important functions of the mouth is chewing because chewing mashes the food into a soft mass that can be swallowed into the esophagus and travel on to the stomach. Movements by the tongue and mouth push the food to the back of the throat, where a flexible flap called the epiglottis closes over the trachea to ensure the food enters the esophagus and not the windpipe to prevent choking. As you can see, just the act of chewing and swallowing a bite of food is an amazing physiological process.
Down Time
Once chewed food enters the esophagus, wavelike contractions known as peristalsis push the food down through the esophagus to the stomach. A muscular ring called the lower esophageal sphincter allows food to enter the stomach. Then the lower esophageal sphincter squeezes shut to prevent food and fluid from going back up into the esophagus.
With age, stress, or poor physical condition, however, the lower esophageal sphincter can weaken, allowing food and acid to back up the hatch. Result: heartburn and acid reflux. Left untreated, acid reflux can lead to ulcers and bleeding of the esophagus as well as increase the risk of developing cancer of the esophagus.
This juncture where the esophagus and the stomach meet is where digestive distress usually rears its ugly head. Heartburn and acid reflux are quintessential American digestive disorders that have made over-the-counter antacid products like Tums, Rolaids, Pepto-Bismol, and Alka-Seltzer into household names and cloying jingles like “plop, plop, fizz, fizz, oh what a relief it is” impossible to get out of our cluttered minds. According to the latest government statistics, 25 million suffer from heartburn daily, while more than 60 million American adults endure occasional occurrences of heartburn. Men and women are affected equally, but the incidence of heartburn increases after age 40.
That’s not good news for a nation that loves to celebrate every occasion with food—and lots of it. From football weekends to festive, holiday dinners, we commemorate life’s richest moments—and even life’s worst times—with the mouth, tongue, and stomach. The problem is that we are indulging rich, processed, fatty foods six days a week and twice on Sunday while washing everything down with generous amounts of soda, caffeine, and alcohol. Maybe a glass of pasteurized milk and chocolate chip cookies for dessert, for all I know.
If the lower esophageal sphincter weakens for some reason, as it sometimes does with those who overeat, ferocious stomach acids can rise into the esophagus, resulting in a burning sensation behind the breastbone lasting from a few minutes to several hours. That’s why heartburn has nothing to do with the heart, even though many experience a quite-noticeable burning sensation in the cardiovascular area. The inflammation or irritation can feel like dancing flames in the upper chest. Some say that when they lie down it feels like lava is eroding their tonsils.
For those fortunate enough not to deal with heartburn or acid reflux, let’s continue to follow the food as the softened mass reaches the stomach, the J-shaped organ that has three functions. The stomach has three tasks:
store the swallowed food and liquids
mix the food and liquids with digestive juices produced by the stomach
and slowly empty its contents into the small intestine
A normal stomach can hold three pints of food or 24 ounces of food, which is a large plate of food. Only a few substances, like water and alcohol, can be absorbed directly by the stomach; the rest must undergo the “wash-and-spin” cycle that the stomach’s known for. The stomach’s strong muscular walls chum the food with acids and enzymes, breaking it into smaller pieces and eventually a semi-liquid form called chyme. About four hours after eating a meal, the chyme is released a little bit at a time through the pyloric sphincter, a thickened muscular ring between the stomach and the small intestine.
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More digestion and absorption of food happens in the small intestine, which extends to about 20 feet of length, or two-thirds of the entire digestive system. The small intestine’s twisting tubes occupy most of the lower abdomen between the stomach and the beginning of the large intestine.
You’d think that the heavy lifting in digestion happens in the large intestine, but that’s not the case. Glands in the small intestine’s walls secrete enzymes to finish the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Any undigested material—like fiber from fruits and vegetables—travels next to the large intestine.
The large intestine forms an upside-down U over the coiled small intestine. With a length of five to six feet—the length of your body!—the large intestine is comprised of three parts: the cecum, the colon, and the rectum. The cecum is a pouch at the beginning of the large intestine that allows food to pass from the small intestine to the large intestine. The middle part, the colon, is where fluids and salts are absorbed as the waste material makes its final journey to the rectum, and it’s also where the feces is stored before being expelled from the body through the anus as a bowel movement.
The storage of feces inside the body—or I should say, the excess storage—is half the reason why The Probiotic Diet needs to be read and followed. When transit time for feces slows to a snail’s pace, your body’s waste stays in the colon longer, where it putrefies and results in toxins entering the bloodstream through the intestinal wall. This can lead to a condition called autointoxification, which can cause everything from headaches to autoimmune disorders.
I’ve long felt that autointoxication is a form of self-poisoning that results in bloating, indigestion, gas, body odor, and a lengthy list of maladies. Colon cancer, the second leading cause of death in the United States, could result from years of autointoxication. Even the traditional medical community recognizes the connection between constipation and serious disease. The Lancet, a prestigious British medical journal, reported that women who are constipated are four times more likely to develop breast cancer.
When the eliminative system of the human body is not in top-notch working order, sluggish and clogged as a kitchen sink full of oatmeal, the digestive tract cannot properly process and eliminate food wastes and toxins.
This virtually guarantees toxic build-up in the colon, which, over time, results in serious illness or chronic degenerative disease. Health statistics show that more North Americans are hospitalized due to intestinal tract illnesses than for any other group of disorders. The medical costs of these diseases are estimated to be $20 billion or more per year, and the bloated market for laxatives, antacids, and antihemmorrhoidals tops $2 billion each year.
The idea that putrefaction of the stools causes diseases such as intestinal autointoxication originated with physicians in ancient Egypt, according to a National Institutes of Health study. The ancient Egyptians believed that a putrefactive principle associated with feces was absorbed into the general circulation, where it acted to produce fever and pus. “The ancient Greeks extended the concept of putrefaction to involve not only the residues of food, but also those of bile, phlegm, and blood, incorporating it into their humoral theory of disease,” the NIH study declared.
Many factors lead to a constipated colon, including a glaring lack of probiotics, which we’ll get into shortly. But let’s face it: autointoxication occurs because Americans have a love affair with crap, as signified by this acronym:
Coffee and cruddy foods
Refined sugar and starches
Alcohol
Processed foods
Autointoxication symptoms can also be extenuated by a lack of exercise, which cuts off lymphatic flow. A good workout has a way of stimulating a good bowel movement, although, in my experience, jumping on a mini-trampoline or rebounder for ten to 20 minutes is the best form of exercise to improve lymphatic flow and speed elimination. A brisk morning walk can also do the trick. President Harry Truman was famous for his “morning constitutional” walks around Lafayette Park next to the White House, accompanied by a single Secret Service agent. (Those simple days are long gone, of course.)
These days, many medications, especially antibiotics, cause constipation. Changing your routine—like traveling to San Francisco from the East Coast—can disrupt normal bowel habits. Not giving the body enough time to let peristalsis work—that series of organized muscle contractions that often occur after eating—is a common route to autointoxication. In the morning, too many people rush out the front door after grabbing a bowl of cereal, topped with pasteurized and homogenized milk. As they start up the car, they feel a slight urge to eliminate, but since they’re running late, they’re too busy to act upon that inclination. And so the seeds of constipation are sown.
We’re Talking Trillions
I hope you were taking notes during Human Digestion 101. Now that you have the basics of digestion down, let me add some technical information that will help you understand better why you need to intentionally add probiotic foods and supplements to your terrain.
Inside your digestive tract, you have trillions of microorganisms swimming around, colonizing every nook and cranny, every millimeter of surface space, from the tip of your tongue to your… well, you know what end I’m talking about. You’ve been living with these microorganisms ever since you were born. “You may have been a sterile, singular being in the womb, but once you entered the birth canal and then the world of nipples and hands and bed sheets, you picked up an ark of microbial handmaidens,” said Jennifer Ackerman, author of Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream. “Soon the little buggers were everywhere, like words filling a page, in folds of skin, in orifices of nose and ears, and especially in the warm, cozy tunnels of your digestive tract, from mouth to anus.” Breastfed infants have significantly higher amounts of beneficial microbes in their guts than do formula fed infants. This is most likely due to a combination of contact with the mother’s skin and the contents of the breast milk itself.
Our son Samuel didn’t receive the beneficial bacteria that come from intimate contact with the mother and consistent breastfeeding. Samuel had developed a nasty case of eczema by the time we were able to complete the formal adoption arrangements, and his skin didn’t get better until I put him on a probiotic-rich infant formula. Samuel is not alone with his eczema problem: a study at Lund University in Sweden showed that children with only a limited variety of bacteria in their feces after birth often develop eczema by the age of the 18 months.
We know that when Samuel grows up big and strong, his body will consist of 10 trillion cells. To help you put a trillion in perspective—timely, since the politicians in Washington, DC, have no problem running a trillion-dollar deficit these days—here’s a good analogy: you could spend $1 million a day—every day—since the day Jesus Christ was born up to today and still not reach a trillion dollars. (The actual total is $734 billion, give or take a few billion.)
Yes, 10 trillion is an astronomical number, but your gut has ten times the number of microorganisms circulating in your terrain. We call these digestive tract microorganisms “intestinal flora.” Even though flora refers to plants, this term seems to have stuck for these microbial cells inhabiting the gut. Of these trillions and trillions of intestinal “bugs,” it’s been estimated that about 500 different bacterial species are swimming around in your abdominal area. These bacteria make up most of the flora in the colon and 60 percent of the dry mass of feces. Taken together en masse, the total weight of this microbial zoo is between two and three pounds.
These tiny microorganisms are your friends—or at least, most of them should be. “Your intestinal tract is surprisingly smart, versatile, and brain-like,” said author Jennifer Ackerman. “Your resident bacteria play a far larger role in digestion than ever imagined.”
Intestinal flora perform a host of useful functions, such as helping you digest and absorb your food, shore up your immune system, detoxify noxious compounds, and even contribute to the manufacture of essential vitamins that your body needs. All your intestinal flora need is a hospitable environment, where they can flourish, help with digestion, and deal with rogue bacteria roaming around your terrain.
Inside your terrain, however, billions of unfriendly intestinal flora lurk, like bandits crouched behind rocks, waiting to surprise the next pioneer wagon train coming around the bend. These impaired or imbalanced flora can take the form of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoans, and their fingerprints are all over heart disease, allergies and asthma, skin disorders, obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, urinary tract infections—a whole host of acute conditions and chronic diseases. An imbalance of intestinal flora crops up after antibiotic treatments or when a powerful flu bug makes the rounds, resulting in constipation or diarrhea.
This Wild, Wild West scene is apropos to what’s happening in your terrain. At this moment, while you’re reading these words, there’s a white-hat-versus-black-hat standoff on Main Street in Dodge City. Over at the Crystal Palace Saloon, the good, bad, and indifferent bacteria are duking it out like one of those old-time Westerns where wingback chairs are tossed about, bottles of whiskey crash against heads, and haymaker punches are landed.
That’s a good description of the tussle going on every second of your life inside your terrain. Friendly bacteria in your gut are doing their darnedest to keep the bad bacteria in check as each side seeks an upper hand. When the good guys are winning, you should have a balance of 85 percent “white hat” intestinal flora and 15 percent “black hat” organisms in the intestinal tract.
The problem is that our modern lifestyle, with its heavy reliance on antibiotics, consumption of too much sugary foods, drinking too much alcohol and soft drinks, and cavalier attitude about chemical food additives kills off zillions of beneficial bacteria. I wouldn’t be surprised if you could flip that 85:15 ratio on its head for all the millions of Americans experiencing autointoxication or chronic digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease.
Following the Probiotic Diet will introduce live bacteria cultures into your gut and be a preventive and therapeutic measure to help you keep the balance of intestinal flora in your terrain tipped toward the positive side.
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Analysis: Will Brazil Destroy the Amazon to Save the Climate? Brazil’s Mineral Wealth Could Power the Energy Transition, But Mining is a Very Dirty Business.
— April 22, 2023 | Foreign Policy
An aerial view shows a mining site in Para state, Brazil, on Aug. 6, 2013. Yasuyoshi Chiba/AFP Via Getty Images
Whether it was gold, diamonds, or iron, the history of Brazil has been shaped for centuries by the hunt for minerals. Colonial fortune hunters and their legions of pick-and-pan-wielding slaves dredged up 800 to 850 tons of gold in the 18th century alone, filling the coffers of the Portuguese crown. In the early 1800s, gold financed the war chest of the Brazilian independence movement.
The search for minerals expanded in the 20th century, turning Brazil into a mining colossus. The country still draws waves of “adventurers, madmen, and starvelings,” as French anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss called prospectors. Many scour the Amazon for paydirt, so much the worse for the world’s largest rainforest and the Indigenous communities that depend on it for survival.
But the coming treasure hunt may trump them all. The 21st century’s prizes are cobalt, lithium, nickel, niobium, and the other critical strategic minerals of which high-tech gadgets and green energy technology are built. To produce an equal amount of power, photovoltaic generation consumes 40 times more copper than fossil fuel combustion and wind power up to 14 times more iron, according to a forthcoming Igarapé Institute report. To meet the burgeoning global demand for green energy technologies—including a massive switch to electric batteries—the World Bank estimates that 3 billion tons of critical strategic minerals will be needed by 2050.
That this scramble for resources is centered on the Amazon lays bare an uncomfortable truth: Climate policy and environmental protection are not the same thing, and as the energy transition gathers pace, that trade-off is becoming increasingly evident. Indonesian rainforests have been cleared for palm oil plantations producing biofuels, and West African forests are felled for wood pellets to heat green homes in Europe. Open-pit mining is one of humanity’s most ruinous industries, razing everything in its path—while toxic runoff, tailings, and waste products can poison rivers and wreak havoc for miles.
How Brazil handles the energy transition’s burgeoning hunger for resources will help determine whether our policies to save the planet will leave us with a planet left to save.
Owing to its vast expanse and favorable geology, Brazil is exceedingly well endowed with highly valuable critical minerals. It sits on 94 percent of the world’s niobium, a bright, white metal crucial to strengthening steel; 22 percent of all graphite; and 16 percent of known reserves of rare-earth metals. The latter comprise 17 scarce elements, many of which are indispensable for clean energy and other technological hardware.
Right now, most of these mineral deposits are still in the ground. Brazil is not yet mining enough of them to even rank among the world’s major producers of strategic minerals or rare earths. That could soon change, driven by rising global demand and Brazil’s centuries-old engineering and geological acumen—after all, it was independence hero and mineralogist José Bonifácio who discovered lithium. Brazil already mines 70 minerals, worth $62 billion in 2021. And whereas Asia’s and Africa’s potential is comparatively well known and researched, much of Brazil’s critical mineral bounty has yet to be mapped.
Critical minerals bring the promise of fabulous wealth but also a bevy of existential challenges. One is the peril of abundance: Like oil does in petrostates, critical minerals could flood the economy with gushers of cash and its corruptive effects. New mines could also deepen Brazil’s dependence on trading raw materials, which already account for some 64 percent of exports. In 2021, only 2 percent of Brazil’s exports were high-tech goods, compared with 12 percent in 2000.
But the most consequential dilemma is how to unearth, refine, and ship these valuable assets without razing forests, eroding biodiversity, and devastating Indigenous and riverine communities. Close to one-third of Brazil’s critical minerals wealth—including one of the world’s largest deposits of rare earths—lies cached beneath the Amazon Basin. The region has scant infrastructure and public institutions to manage conflicts or tensions arising over resource competition. Official data shows that close to 15 percent of known deposits lie in protected conservation areas across Brazil and more than 4 percent within Indigenous lands.
Clearly, no government can forgo a mother lode, especially when the world is scrambling for these resources. Consider that to achieve the climate goals in the 2015 Paris Agreement, the world will need to quadruple—yes, quadruple—mineral production through 2040, according to the International Energy Agency. Surging demand will especially affect Latin America, which has 40 percent of global copper reserves as well as a large share of the world’s cobalt and nickel. Just three countries—Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile—control two-thirds of the global supply of lithium. The pressure to mine rare earths will grow as well, especially as China, the world’s largest producer, moves to restrict exports and as other countries work to lessen their strategic dependence on Beijing.
How Brazil manages a vast expansion of its mining industry and handles the attendant environmental, social, and other negative consequences could therefore shape the rules and red lines of an expanding global mining sector for years to come.
Then-Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro sought to boost the mining sector in 2021 with his landmark Pro-Strategic Minerals Policy. This was a marquee initiative of the country’s public-private investment program, which holds that government entities have a duty to expedite priority investments. It gives the government discretion to waive regulatory restrictions designed to protect the environment and Indigenous communities if the project is deemed to be in the “national interest.” The gates were opened to fast-tracking critical minerals exploration and mining permits.
It was a policy of dig, baby, dig. Environmental preservation was never a priority for Bolsonaro and his backers, who mostly saw the rainforest and its Indigenous inhabitants as speed bumps to progress. Unsurprisingly, the Bolsonaro government greenlit 19 of the 26 critical minerals projects it vetted between 2018 and 2022. Many of these were in the so-called Legal Amazon, a Brazilian region already besieged by deforestation and degradation.
Even before he took office in January 2023, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva vowed to rewrite the script. He pledged to make the Amazon the centerpiece of Brazil’s green reset while also committing to prioritizing the search for vital minerals. Lula talked up mining in recent meetings with both the United States, which wants exclusive access to some of Brazil’s critical minerals, and China, which is hoovering up raw materials from everywhere. Whether Brazil will be able to lock in a good deal without mortgaging the rainforest to global superpowers is another matter. How Lula finesses those competing demands may shape the direction of the global green energy transition.
To be sure, Lula cannot escape the trade-offs that come with wanting to accelerate mining of critical strategic minerals on the one hand and protect the rainforest and its people on the other. At a minimum, his administration will need to uphold its promises to reinstate environmental and Indigenous rights protections dismantled during Bolsonaro’s tenure. This will be challenging, not least since ambitious mining projects could exacerbate simmering tensions. According to the Environmental Justice Atlas, roughly 4.5 percent of reported environmental conflicts worldwide already occur in Brazil.
Moreover, tightening oversight, enforcement, and compliance could also stimulate the illicit minerals market, where organized crime, dark money, and violence already abound. Even more worrisome, extracting and processing critical minerals and rare earths can exact a heavy environmental toll, from releasing carbon dioxide stored in the subsoil to spilling toxic mercury used to amalgamate gold into the rivers and food chain. Limiting these effects will be especially difficult in the vast Brazilian Amazon, an area that has long been troubled by poor governance and outright lawlessness.
More positively, Lula seems intent on reinstating the regulations and consultation processes that his predecessor weakened or scuttled outright. Ratification of the Escazú Agreement, signed by Brazil in 2018, would go a long way to institutionalizing these protections, including safeguarding environmental defenders and Indigenous peoples in the Amazon.
Efforts are also underway to lock in private sector commitments to the terms of a new green deal in Brazil. Some forward-looking investors are already on board: They increasingly recognize that cutting corners to fatten the bottom line is a corporate own-goal, especially in an era when corporations face pressures from activist investors and the public to adhere to environmental, social, and governance standards. What’s more, big-ticket projects that fail to benefit local populations are a common driver of social unrest, with protests halting mining operations or slowing new developments. In fact, one of the chief reasons large mining companies are hesitant to engage in early-stage exploration and extraction in the Amazon is that they want to avoid conflict with local communities.
Nevertheless, holding the country’s mining giants to account is a work in progress. Brazil’s five largest prospectors all produce lucrative critical minerals such as gold, copper, manganese, niobium, and uranium, which guarantee Brazil a reliable trade surplus. Mega-miner Vale last year signed a long-term agreement to supply nickel to Tesla, while Anglo American CEO Duncan Wanblad has called for Brazil to open up its mining sector to meet surging global demand.
Encouragingly, private operators are also increasingly facing growing pressures to do good while doing well. Last December, for example, Canada-based Indigenous groups and supporters launched the Sustainable Critical Minerals Alliance, calling on countries to protect against unsustainable mining in the Amazon by honoring their agreements to safekeep at least 80 percent of the river basin by 2025.
Ultimately, that decision will fall to Brazil. If the country manages to create productive strategies for delivering both wealth and well-being, this land of prospectors has a shot at reinventing the rules for sustainable, socially responsible enterprise and its own history as well.
— Nicholas Pope contributed to this article. He is a postdoctoral research fellow at King’s College, a consultant to the Igarapé Institute, and a co-author of a forthcoming report on critical minerals in Brazil.
— Robert Muggah is a principal at the SecDev Group, a co-founder of the Igarapé Institute, and the author, with Ian Goldin, of Terra Incognita: 100 Maps to Survive the Next 100 Years.
— Mac Margolis is a Brazil-based journalist, an advisor at the Igarapé Institute, and the author of The Last New World: The Conquest of the Amazon Frontier.
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Can we have platonic Sebastian, ceil, Alois, claud, and agni with a young (teen) reader? Like, under 18, I wanna see some more platonic yanderes, there isn't much of those :((
Also where is the anonymous button did they .. DID TUMBLR CANCEL IT??
I love platonic Yandere as well. To your question regarding the anonymous button, I never activated it in the first place. I often thought about activating it, but I never did it in the end.
Tw: Yandere themes, unhealthy mindset, unhealthy relationship, possessiveness, obsessiveness, delusions, paranoia overprotective behavior, stalking, intimidation
Platonic Hc’s
Ciel Phantomhive
☕️He needs some time to truly warm up to the point where he entrusts someone with some secrets and feelings he has so you’ll have to be someone he meets very often and has known for a longer time. Maybe he took you in as a servant of his, maybe he knew you already before he formed a contract with Sebastian. In either case, Ciel has a bond comparable to the one siblings have with you. You’re someone precious he often wants to spend time with, enjoy some tea with and share some stories with. The Phantomhive is protective, mainly because you’re still so young and out of the belief of his that he knows, from gruesome experiences and his job, better.
☕️Ciel berates you here and there when you did something that is in his opinion stupid and offers you often his own advice. He’d appreciate it if you would seek him out when you need someone’s opinion or someone’s help, he’ll always help. Even if you did something exceptionally dumb for which he will belittle you accurately. He pays for your education if you shouldn’t be able to do it yourself and teaches you some things himself rather than asking the demon butler. Overall rather supportive, even if he expects you to ask him if you experience any sort of troubles and he keeps a rather sharp eye on those who might show interest in you or the other way around.
☕️The thought does not sit too well with him and any future partner will have to go through a long and exhausting test and interrogation of his. He’ll always offer you a workplace and a place in his household, though he knows with his chaotic servants it might not the safest idea, we’ll skip the part of all the assaults attempted to kill him. Ciel won’t have too much against you living alone when you’re older though, he would want to meet you at least once a day though. Just to se you in person, he keeps tabs on you anyways.
Sebastian Michaelis
🐈⬛He feels unusually protective over this little human there, genuinely caring about their well-being and happiness. Initially a bit irritating, but also really interesting and most of all refreshing for a creature who always acted out of selfishness. Who might you be for gaining a soft spot in his ink-black heart? A servant of the household maybe? A good acquaintance of Ciel? Whoever you are, the demon finds himself attached to you in a way really close friends would be. He engages in occasional smalltalk with you, remembers your favorite flavor of tea or sweets and always prepares it when you come to visit and remembers the details.
🐈⬛He’s not entirely sure how to approach you behind all of this. So far he’s had a talent in seducing other women and men probably as well, but he desires something differently with you. The demon…just wants to be seen as someone you can talk freely to and seek out in times of need. Looking on your young and tender age, offering to teach you the things you might not have learned due to poor education or just didn’t understand seems like a good option. You probably disagree after your first few lessons with him, Sebastian keen on enabling you to own a good amount of knowledge and for that he’s accordingly strict.
🐈⬛If you don’t understand something he’ll repeat it with you until your head starts smoking. There’s some light teasing here and there to brighten up your grumpy mood here and there, otherwise his lessons are productive and hard. He rewards you when you succeeded and wrote good grades though, be that with your favorite food or arranging something you’ve always wanted to try out. He likes mocking you a bit, just enough to make you mad a bit which earns him a light slap on the arm from you in private. If he has free time, he likes to just talk with you. Senses when you’re upset about something and tries to help as good as he can with his collected knowledge about humans and emotions.
Alois Trancy
👅He has some trust issues since he believes people only care about him because he’s rich. You’re no exception to all of this, your caring nature and your equally kind actions initially are believed to be all fake by him. But the poor boy needs someone who doesn’t ignore him like Claude, he only has Hannah who truly cares about him and once you manage to break through his bratty walls, he gets attached quickly. Sure, he still acts like a child, but not bratty and entitled anymore. Suddenly he appears more needy for love and affection he never got as a child, caring maternal feelings inside of you and that is what Alois somewhat ends up viewing you as well.
👅You’re someone who is sincerely worried for him and wants him to be happy and he appreciates that more than words could ever express. His attachment comes with certain disadvantages as well though. He fears that you might be taken away from him and now that you’ve given something that no money in the world could ever buy, he wants to somehow repay that favor. So he ends up offering you to live with him, he can give you a better life anyways. He has the money, the servants and can help you achieving pretty much every goal you might want to achieve. Incredibly hurt if you were to reject him and he’s always terrified that you might not care about him in the end, he can be calmed down though.
👅He’s still a monopolizer and needs a certain amount of hours he can spend with you every day, not really caring what else might preoccupy you on that day. He likes playing games with his darling, hide-and-seek for example. Oh boy, if he hears that someone bullies you or treats you bad this noble will be pissed and throw hands. Has Hannah secretly watching over you sometimes when he feels paranoid again. Alois ends up making your whole life easier wherever he can and even if you don’t want it, he’ll end up doing it anyways. Be that helping you with your school or getting you a good job later. As long as you stay as his friend, he’ll do anything.
Claude Faustus
🕷Claude here acts at the beginning so cold simply because he does not like admitting that he might have started worrying for a frail human such as you. He has his pride and already his hands full with his young majesty, he doesn’t need another human in his life. Now, who are you? Looking on how demanding Alois is of Claude’s time, you might be someone Alois has a good connection with which would make things easier. You could be someone who Claude meets frequently somewhere else though which would make things a bit more complicated, nothing the demon butler can’t handle though.
🕷He observes rather than he interacts at first, you’ll never be able to get more then one or two sentences out of him. He just glances often at you, trying to figure out what makes you so special? Your soul perhaps, no, not that. What else is it then? The spider demon likes to know what’s going on so he can prepare for it, so best believe that he’ll one day approach you as soon as he found out what this weird wish inside of him is. He wants to befriend you, it’s still somewhat hard to believe for him but that’s apparently it. He’s more stiff and not that lighthearted as Sebastian, his expectations are a little bit higher as well.
🕷You have so much potential in his opinion and he wants you to be able to use it all which is why he pours every bit of his knowledge inside of you in long teaching sessions. It gives you a headache and he voices critique, but it will definitely improve your education enormously. He’s not completely heartless after all, he treats you to little traits when he deems that you’ve done something very well. If you do know his master, he tends to get a little bit annoyed since Alois is…Alois. If you don’t know Alois, he never plans on introducing you to this little brat. Believe him, it’s better that way for him and you.
Agni
🤜Agni is nothing but respectful to you even if you’re younger than him. He treats all people that way unless they are not rude to the people he cares about which includes you. He puts high value in the fact that everyone you meet and interact with shows you a certain level of respect since this is how people should treat others. If this condition is not fulfilled, he always steps in and gives a warning. How could he have met you? Well, it’s either that you’re close to Soma or that he met you during his time in London with Ciel and Sebastian. Agni, whether romantic or not, is naturally a very protective guy and the same counts for you.
🤜You become like a younger sibling who he would love to shield from all harm in this world, just like Soma, though he knows that’s not possible. He works hard though, helping you wherever he can, teaching you as good as he can and getting to know the things that make you uncomfortable or you fear to try to let you never encounter those. In case you did not know Soma and him before they visited England, he’ll definitely wish for his master and you to get to know each other and have a good relationship with each other.
🤜Soma is overall a friendly person though, so he’ll most likely like you and knowing that Agni sees you like a young sibling, he wants to befriend you quickly as well. The servant is highly supportive of the dreams and goals you have and encourages you and helps you whenever he can, listens to all the problems you have if you decide to tell him and gives you his own opinion and his comfort when you need it. Appreciates every little thing you make for him, he it a small doodle that you don’t like at all, he never throws away what you made for him. Immensely proud when you achieved something of which you can be proud of and him and Soma celebrate it, Soma in a more exaggerated way than him.
#yandere black butler#yandere kuroshitsuji#yandere ciel#yandere ciel phantomhive#yandere sebastian#yandere sebastian michaelis#yandere alois#yandere alois trancy#yandere claude#yandere claude faustus#yandere agni
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I want to share more now. Here's a letter from Lorenz to Hilda which will one day be part of the next chapter of my hilorenz fic if I ever post it:
Dearest Hilda,
Enbarr is beautiful at this time of year. Less so the company; Ministers and Dukes of every measure seek to use Gloucester as an influence in Garreg Mach, or an authority in Leicester.
Whether this is a vote of confidence or an expectation of my ineptitude, I can hardly say. Perhaps both.
Yet they treated me with far more respect in Ferdinand’s company than I’ve come to expect back home, and I found my stay to be a productive and diverting visit.
I am uncertain to what degree Hubert may think things between he and I are settled, but he was more forthcoming than I would have hoped when it came to ferreting out lingering secrets.
I am also uncertain what he may be withholding. His multiplicity speaks volumes of the secrets he yet holds, and I wonder at the breadth of information he maintains with which to bargain and blackmail.
He was … much like himself, for better or worse. The coastal air must have been comforting — or perhaps horrifying; I cannot measure such assumptions in his character.
I worry now that it may sound as though I had him released to Ferdinand for my own benefit — but I was not aware — I would never have assumed to do so without being transparent of such a thing. With you and Faedolyn, if no one else.
Are there ghosts in Goneril as well as Gloucester? The war has shaped every farm from the rivers to the coast. I did not expect to follow our path to Adrestia, to remember the adrenaline — the fear — the hope.
I dreamed I’d died there, to forever walk that path, with life and peace unattainable in eternity…
I remembered objecting to Claude’s decision to divert a portion of our forces, as we were so few, when forcing our way so deep into Adrestian territory. He was right, certainly, as he often was. How often then, was I wrong?
A walking contradiction. An embarrassment to my father.
I can only hope that the challenges around me are signs that I struggle as a good man, and not a fool.
Perhaps I will confide more of these challenges before the next roundtable, if only to seek your opinion. Even your mockery would be welcome. I admire how you carve your path and your opinion through your nobility — you make it look effortless, and you surely wield that easy decorum just as well to your advantage. Crafting your lax and demure reputation.
I miss when you would let it slip. When you would inject yourself in conversations because you sought to share the zeal of your passion on a particular subject. I have not a single memory of ridicule for your hobbies or interests, unlike my own. Most of which I have never needed nor expected approval of, but which I think now would benefit from council.
If you are overtaxed by your own responsibilities and can spare no time for me, then know that I am not without options, nor so weak-willed as to be paralyzed with indecision barring aid.
I simply miss you.
Is that too plain? I miss everyone, but Saints how I miss you.
You help me remember myself, even in brief, even if only the ideal to which I strive. I am better for knowing you, and … I long to be reunited. A glimpse of your kindness would do much to restore me.
It is disorienting in the extreme to have gone from fighting by your side for years on end to imagining a future where we might meet so rarely…
Your devoted friend, Lorenz Hellman Gloucester
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Louis Vuitton Collaborations: A Look at the Brand's Most Iconic Partnerships
With its level of extravagance and classic flair, Louis Vuitton is a name that is frequently connected with innovation. The French design house has developed from its starting points as a trunk creator to turn into a significant power in extravagance design on a worldwide scale. Louis Vuitton's imaginative partnerships with designers, specialists, and organizations are a significant contributor to its continuous importance.
In addition to reclassifying the brand, these collaboration efforts have extended the domain of extravagant style by delivering things that are both exclusive and culturally significant.
Let's examine what Louis Vuitton bags most recognizable partnerships have meant for the style business by digging into their histories.
Takashi Murakami: A Burst of Color and Whimsy
In 2003, Louis Vuitton collaborated with Japanese modern artist Takashi Murakami in perhaps its most notable organization. Murakami, who is notable for his "superflat" painting style, which consolidates pop art and a traditional Japanese feel, added lively colors and amusing designs to Louis Vuitton's famous monogram canvas.
Murakami's collection of Multicolore Monograms acquired quick popularity. The series hung out in an ocean of consistency by substituting a riot of 33 colors on a white or dark background for the traditional brown and beige monogram. Other remarkable pieces incorporated an animated panda, cherries, and Murakami's brand trademark smiling flowers.
As well as giving Louis Vuitton's picture another point, this partnership opened the door for extravagance with an artistic flair. The way that Murakami's designs kept on being delivered for over decade gives proof of their immortal allure.You can also search for Louis Vuitton bags price.
Supreme: Streetwear Meets High Fashion
Louis Vuitton created a buzz in 2017 when it partnered with Supreme, a streetwear company that is associated with urban cool and skate culture. Given that Supreme defined streetwear revolt and Louis Vuitton represented old-world wealth, this collaboration initially appeared unlikely. Nonetheless, the partnership was a brilliant move that united two seemingly unrelated realms.
From bags and apparel to skateboards, the Louis Vuitton x Supreme collection included a variety of products bearing both Louis Vuitton's monogram and Supreme's recognizable red-and-white emblem. Pop-up shops in big cities sold out of the collection almost immediately due to its strong demand. You should also search forLouis Vuitton bags price in India.
Yayoi Kusama: The Polka Dot Revolution
Yayoi Kusama, the renowned Japanese artist famous for her concentration on polka dots, worked with Louis Vuitton in 2012. Kusama's avant-garde style was incorporated into Louis Vuitton's designs with ease, creating a collection that was both daring and exquisite.
Kusama's characteristic polka dots, available in a range of hues and sizes, decorated everything from handbags and apparel to shoes and accessories in the Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama collection. The collection demonstrated how an artist's vision might turn commonplace objects into wearable works of art, crossing the boundaries between art and fashion.
Jeff Koons: Art History Reimagined
The "Masters" series, which Louis Vuitton and modern artist Jeff Koons created in 2017, recreated classic works of art by artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Leonardo da Vinci. Famous paintings, including "The Mona Lisa" and "The Starry Night," together with Koons' initials and metallic accents, were printed on bags and accessories in the line.
This partnership made a daring statement about the nexus of art, fashion, and business. It paid respect to the great masters of the past while enabling customers to wear a piece of art history on their sleeve. By fusing luxury items with high art, Louis Vuitton once again demonstrated its creativity and capacity to surprise.
Stephen Sprouse: Punk Rock Glamour
Louis Vuitton's first significant artistic partnership prior to Murakami and Kusama was with American designer Stephen Sprouse in 2001. Sprouse, who is well-known for his bold, graffiti-inspired designs, infused the brand with a rebellious spirit.
In the Stephen Sprouse x Louis Vuitton collection, the famous monogram canvas was covered in neon graffiti that read "Louis Vuitton." Younger, edgier consumers were drawn to the designs' audacious and unrepentant style, which was a major shift from the brand's conventional look. By demonstrating Louis Vuitton's willingness to take chances and welcome new ideas, this partnership has set the stage for future collaborations.
Marc Jacobs: Artistic Leadership and Collaboration
Although Marc Jacobs is most renowned for his time as creative director of Louis Vuitton, the company was transformed thanks in large part to his ability to work with artists such as Murakami, Kusama, and Sprouse. The present identity of Louis Vuitton was inspired by Jacobs's concept of the power of merging art and fashion.
The Legacy of Collaboration
Collaborations with Louis Vuitton bags are cultural landmarks rather than merely business deals. Louis Vuitton has continuously redefined what luxury means by collaborating with companies and artists that reflect a range of viewpoints. Because of these partnerships, the brand has been able to stay relevant and appeal to both new fashion enthusiasts and classic luxury buyers.
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As a resident Claudefucker, I know am curious to know what our fave charming schemer is doing during this Mafia!AU. He'd look lovely in a suit.
~It was quite the headline when Godfrey Riegan died. The details are a little hazy, a little convenient, but people don't talk about that sort of thing. Car accidents are common. Tragic, but not unreasonable. There’s no reason to smear a man’s perfectly respectable political career for the sake of some sensational gossip.
~In the right circles, however, there was a huge uproar, questions about who was going to take over the Riegan family when the elderly boss Oswald died. The Riegan’s had been dominating Leicester for quite some time, but a lot of people began to predict that the Gloucester family was going to move in. They had powerful friends, it seemed. Friends with money, no less.
~Claude Riegan, grandson of Oswald, appeared out of nowhere just when he was needed. Stories of the lost daughter Tiana still circulated, sure, but there were still a lot of questions about Claude’s origins when nobody except Oswald were able to vouch for him. He obviously had military leadership experience—his skill with guns and ability to lead was just too excellent for any other explanation—but he dismissed the question out of hand. There’s no documentation of him, either, leading some to wonder if even his name was false. But Oswald said he was family, and that was that.
~Claude was quick to establish himself, in any case. Despite his cavalier attitude, his efficacy in overhauling the power dynamics of Leicester were profound.
~He decided, first and foremost, that the way to win the people over was to invigorate the local culture, which had seen a sharp decline as a result of new laws that were unfavorable to business, Adrestia’s growing market monopolies, and the bad reputation of the red light district Ailell. This included some perfectly legitimate campaigning and some under the table type schemes.
~The result was a flourishing Derdriu Street. While it lacks the prestige of Enbarr Square in Adrestia, it welcomes entertainment that would be considered too “low brow” like comedy, trendy new restaurants, and music venues. Even better, all of it is built on the recently cleaned up river. The Riegan family is involved in all of it, of course.
~Casino owner Claude. This exists solely to thirst but maybe it was preexisting and he took it over due to its poor management? If there’s going to be gambling anyway, it should be done right. The extra money’s not so bad, either. But, Claude lounging in a big leather chair in a dark blue blazer with gold brocade, his white shirt unbuttoned low enough to see enough his chest. Enough to make you drool. Enough that you’d definitely get caught staring and probably called out for it because he can’t help himself. Claude with his elbows on the arm rests and fingers folded in front of him as he considers you, gold rings winking because he’s just that ostentatious and appearances are important. Claude asking you how you feel about taking risks in a way that really feels like it has nothing to do with cards, staring at you with a friendly smile that doesn’t meet those calculating eyes—eyes that you know will pick up on every tell.
~Claude also struck a deal with the Kupala Distillery. They’d been fighting to keep hold of their historic business for years, and Claude offered to help them with that. You know, not for free, but he’s good at making deals that leave everybody happy.
~The second biggest thing he tackled was the drug trade. For the most part, no one family had ever had a complete handle on that market. The Goneril’s had a hold over the docks for years, but the Edmunds had been moving in and working with the Gloucester family to bolster their power. Distribution was scattered and hard to keep track of as it ultimately circulated wherever there was a profit to be made. Looking at it like this, Claude decided that the only way to fix things was to take control over all of it. In his line of work, shady things like the drug trade are impossible to avoid. At the very least, if he has control over it, he can ensure the product is clean and expel far more unsavory ventures.
~Through these escapades, Claude was able to make alliances with all of the major families. A lot of them had only remained loyal to the Gloucester family out of fear so as soon as they had an alternative, they bolted. This has an unfortunate side effect of revealing how his power is perceived. Every day is a balancing act for Claude. He allows each family to function as they please as long as they’re aware they do so at his mercy. It’s better to keep friends than to control enemies, but even that requires a delicate maneuvering of power.
~However, Claude likes the conflict. He enjoys the game and he especially enjoys winning the game. There’s a certain level of his excusing amorality for the sake of his family and Leicester, but there’s an equal part of him that understands his wrongdoings and deals with it separately. He wouldn’t hold to the naïve “ends justify the means” idea to excuse himself, but he would still argue that his actions have value and are even necessary. If it weren’t him, it would be somebody a lot worse than him. That’s probably something that would linger in the back of everybody’s minds whenever they shook his hand or paid their respects, whenever they began to think of how easy it would be to take him out. Fear, too. So far, Claude’s never done anything shockingly bad, only what was necessary. But with his power and intellect, it’s always a question of what he could do.
~If someone asked him that, Claude would smile that friendly smile and tell them that he would do anything to see his vision made real. Whether or not that’s true remains to be seen.
~Luckily, Claude’s not alone! Hilda is the stereotypical crime family princess. She joined Claude because he offered her freedom from the overbearing control of her father and brother. Her skill in manipulating everybody around her combined with her reputation as a ditzy rich girl makes her fantastic at gathering information, assuming Claude can get her to do so. But, as long as he’s not being too forceful, she’s surprisingly motivated to weave her way through social circles and charm everyone. Although she would never say it, the order he brought to Leicester, not to mention the entertainment, made everything a lot better for her and her family. Plus, she likes being useful after spending her entire life watching Holst give his heart and soul to family while she did nothing. Ultimately, the information she provides is essential and her relationship with Claude is one of the few either have that’s built on trust, respect, and loyalty. That said, sometimes even Claude gets a little shiver as he watches how easily Hilda can manipulate people.
~Lorenz was one of Claude’s most disdainful detractors, although a part of that was jealousy. Claude just swept in and did things that Lorenz had been waiting and planning to do once he became the head of the Gloucester family. Even after being on the receiving ends of such vicious attacks, once Claude undeniably had the upper hand in Leicester, he went behind the Gloucester boss’s back to Lorenz and told him that they were going to be friends or enemies, it was Lorenz’s choice. Not threatening him, just pointing out that the fall of the Gloucester family was inevitable under his father’s leadership and that Lorenz didn’t have to suffer for his father’s sins. Probably over mimosas and brunch. Lorenz is proud and has no appreciation for Claude, but he’s not stupid. After they worked out their disagreements and more or less accepted each other, Lorenz and Claude became pretty close. Claude knows that having someone to openly and aggressively disagree with him isn’t a bad thing. Not only that, but Lorenz’s a solid ally with a better grasp on some of the things Claude has difficulty with due to not being a native. Lorenz is willing to admit that Claude is a good leader.
~Marianne is well educated in the realm of the law and political action. The reason the Edmund family saw such success despite their lesser status was because of her adopted father’s genius. which he made sure to share with Marianne. She is invaluable in aiding Claude on the perfectly legitimate side of his business, and helping him hide his tracks for the shady stuff. Raphael is the muscle. Lysithea is a computer genius. Being a sickly shut in with issues that only recently saw treatment, she’s on the Mr. Robot level of hacker mode activated. Ignatz is an architect which is useful since so much of Claude’s power is in the property and infrastructure. He also designed a lot of places to have some neat-o hidey holes. Claude loves buildings that have secrets. Leonie is manages a lot of the physical and pettier side of the work. If someone’s stirring up trouble, she’s likely to pay them a visit as a warning before Claude has to get involved. She used to be a mercenary but being on Claude’s payroll is a lot better of a gig.
~As for the suits, one thing is very important. Claude would not, under any circumstances, wear something tight on his thighs. I actually kind of like the idea of him going for a 1980′s style modernized. In his post timeskip outfit, he’s already got a hint of that going on with how oversized his outfit looks. The 80′s (rightfully) gets a bad rep for fashion, but it’s also very iconic with those wide-collared suit jackets, matchy-matchy three piece suits, sportscoats with a fun patterned shirt underneath, open blazers, pleated pants with an oversized jacket, and—in particular—the trend of summer suits in shades of tan and cream with colored shirts underneath. Then, combine that with a pair of Ray-Ban Aviators and a topless convertible and you’ve got a distinctly recognizable mob boss who doubles as a devastating heartthrob. I’m not saying he’d do a 1:1 recreation, but you’d definitely see references to the fashion of the era in his outfits. He would wear oxfords or ankle boots. Whatever it was, they’d have to be comfortable. He also doesn’t shy away from jewelry. The earring, of course, and rings when he's feeling particularly decadent. When he’s wearing his shirts unbuttoned Claude could possibly wear a gold chain. I mean, what are you gonna say, no? That gold doesn’t look gorgeous against his skin? That it’s tacky? You’re talking to the man who wore quilted pants. Claude’s not afraid to stand out because he knows he will anyway, nor is he afraid to be seen as unfashionable because he doesn’t particularly care about trends. I also enjoy the idea of him emulating the 80′s as someone who didn’t grow up in a western culture and thus mainly saw things through the lens of movies. Whatever he wears, however, he would look very handsome.
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