#Innovative Weight Loss

[visionmedltcandcompoundingphar]

A compounding pharmacy in Phoenix, Arizona is making waves with innovative weight loss solutions, particularly Semaglutide. This medication is crafted specifically to meet individual needs, offering a tailored approach to weight management. At a local compounding pharmacy, Semaglutide is compounded with precision, ensuring you receive a formulation that best fits your health goals. This personalized touch is essential for those seeking effective weight loss solutions that are adapted to their unique needs.

[nutriwellnesshq]

Are you struggling to lose weight, no matter how much you diet or exercize?

[pharmanucleus1]

Global Weight Loss and Diet Management Market: Cutting-Edge Trends, Insights, and Opportunities

 Weight Loss and Diet Management Market Size (2023 to 2028) 

The size of the weight loss and diet management market is projected to value USD 432.4 billion by 2028 from USD 270.9 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 9.8% during the forecast period. 

Weight Loss and Diet Management Market Share Insights: 

Based on diet, the F&B segment had the major share in the weight loss and diet management market in 2022. 

Based on equipment, the fitness equipment segment led the market in 2022. 

Based on services, the consulting segment held the leading share of the market in 2022. 

North America had the dominating share in the market share in 2022. 

The European region accounted for a notable share of the worldwide market in 2022.

Maintaining weight at a healthy level can be challenging for some people due to the body's complex genetic system. In addition, medical conditions, lifestyle, and diet, among others, are some of the factors that may contribute to weight gain in people. 

Click here for full report:

https://www.pharmanucleus.com/reports/weight-loss-and-diet-management-market

MARKET DRIVERS: 

The growth of the weight loss and diet management market is majorly driven by factors such as the increasing obese population, companies' promotional strategies, rise in disposable income, affordable cost of surgeries, and an increase in the diabetic population. 

As per the World Health Organization, the obese population has doubled since 1980. In 2014, approximately 13% of the world's population was, and more than 600 million adults were obese. Additionally, obesity is linked to more deaths worldwide than underweight. However, obesity is preventable, and diet changes and fitness/physical activities can help reduce extra fat. Severe obesity can be treated through weight loss surgery (Gastric Bypass Surgery and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy). 

The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing worldwide due to a lack of physical activity and unhealthy eating habits, which is anticipated to result in the growth of the weight loss and diet management market. 

Child obesity has increased manifold over the years. According to the Childhood Obesity Foundation, approximately 150 million children have obesity, and the number of obese children may alarmingly rise to 206 million by 2025. Cases of childhood obesity due to hormonal problems are sporadic. In children, the total number of hours of inactivity increases as they spend a lot of time watching television and playing computer games. Overweight or obese children are more likely to be obese as adults and are more prone to developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease early. Worldwide, the number of overweight children (under five years) is estimated to be more than 41 million; about half of these children live in Asia. As a result of this trend, the demand for healthier diets is expected to increase worldwide. It is expected to provide significant growth opportunities for actively operative stakeholders in the market for weight-loss products and services. 

Click here for free request sample:

The growing concern among people regarding health and wellness also fuels the growth of the weight loss and diet management market. 

The COVID-19 pandemic taught people the importance of being healthy and increased awareness of weight loss, obesity, and diet. During the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the announced lockdowns and travel bans, physical activity was lacking among people, resulting in weight gain. In addition, factors such as the growing number of bariatric surgeries, rising adoption of weight loss and weight management programs, increasing disposable income in developing economies, sedentary living, and growing government initiatives to educate obese people are anticipated to showcase a favorable impact on the market growth. Furthermore, the increasing number of bariatric surgeries in major markets worldwide is expected to increase the number of bariatric surgery equipment and other products needed for these procedures. 

MARKET RESTRAINTS: 

High costs associated with low-calorie food & beverages, misleading promotional strategies, adverse effects of weight-loss supplements (liver damage), and side effects of weight-loss surgery (dizziness, nausea, bowel obstruction, and diarrhea) are a few of the factors hindering the market growth. Despite less stringent regulatory guidelines, the weight loss and weight management industry face challenges in adhering to regulatory guidelines for producing and marketing weight-loss products, particularly nutritional supplements. Because of the additional processing required for low-calorie products, low-calorie foods and beverages are generally more expensive than high-calorie foods. Besides, a low-calorie product contains vitamins and minerals, making the diet rich in nutrients. These factors add little value to the weight loss and weight management market, and the increasing adoption of low-cost/no-cost alternative products may slow down the growth of this market. 

Click here for full report:

Impact of COVID-19 on the weight loss and diet management market: 

The emergence of COVID-19 has positively impacted the weight loss and diet loss management market. As a result, people are becoming more health-conscious and unable to perform outside activities, and the demand for weight loss supplements, including green tea, has increased.Furthermore, as a result of the increased COVID-19 outbreak, nearly 88 percent of companies have encouraged their employees to work from home, resulting in a significant decrease in people's physical activity, resulting in weight gain and related problems, which is expected to propel the weight loss and obesity management market growth over the forecast period. 

COVID-19 patients and those on the road to recovery rely heavily on nutrition. The body gets weakened during COVID-19, and the effects last days after the symptoms have subsided. As a result, consuming the right sort of food is critical for a complete and quick recovery. The main goal of a COVID patient's diet is to eat items that will help them rebuild muscle, immunity, and energy. Complex carbohydrates are abundant in whole grains, including ragi, oats, and amaranth. Protein-rich foods include chicken, fish, eggs, paneer, soya, almonds, and seeds. Healthy fats such as walnuts, almonds, olive oil, and mustard oil are advised these days. In addition, turmeric milk should be had once a day to enhance immunity. However, the Weight Loss and Diet Management Market is quickly reaching pre-COVID levels. A healthy growth rate is expected to be driven by the V-shaped recovery in most developing nations. 

Weight Loss and Diet Management Market - By Diet: 

Food & Beverages 

Diet Supplements 

Based on diet, the food & beverages segment is expected to account for the most prominent share of the market during the forecast period. The growing consumer awareness of low-calorie foods and beverages in developing countries and the rising population of obese people in the APAC region fuels the segment growth. 

Weight Loss and Diet Management Market - By Equipment: 

Fitness Training Equipment 

Surgical Equipment 

Minimally Invasive/Bariatric Surgical Equipment 

Non-Invasive Surgical Equipment 

The fitness training equipment segment is projected to witness significant growth during the forecast period based on the equipment. In addition, people are getting more health-conscious; therefore, the demand for weight loss supplements and the performance of outside activities have significantly increased. 

[chiropracticcare12]

Achieve Your Weight Loss Goals with a Trusted Weight Loss Clinic in Temecula, CA

Introduction: For individuals in Temecula, CA, who are looking to embark on a weight loss journey, finding a reputable weight loss treatment clinic Temecula is key to achieving their goals. A dedicated weight loss clinic can provide professional guidance, personalized plans, and the necessary support to help individuals shed excess weight and improve their overall health. In this article, we will explore the benefits of a weight loss clinic in Temecula, CA, and how it can assist you in your weight loss journey.

Personalized Plans and Expert Guidance Temecula weight loss clinic, CA, offers personalized weight loss plans tailored to individual needs and goals. The experienced professionals at these clinics conduct comprehensive assessments, considering factors such as medical history, lifestyle, and dietary preferences. Based on this information, they create customized plans that incorporate a balanced diet, exercise routines, behavior modifications, and potentially, medical interventions. This personalized approach ensures that individuals receive the most effective strategies and guidance to support their weight loss journey.

Support and Accountability Weight loss can be a challenging process, and having a support system in place is crucial for success. A weight loss clinic provides ongoing support and accountability to individuals throughout their journey. Regular check-ins, progress tracking, and counseling sessions help individuals stay motivated, make necessary adjustments, and overcome obstacles. The professional team at the weight loss clinic acts as a reliable resource, providing guidance, education, and encouragement every step of the way.

Improved Health and Well-being Achieving weight loss goals can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being. By shedding excess weight, individuals may experience improved cardiovascular health, reduced risk of chronic diseases, increased energy levels, enhanced mood, and improved self-confidence. The guidance and expertise provided by a weight loss clinic in Temecula, CA, can help individuals not only reach their desired weight but also improve their overall quality of life.

Conclusion: If you're seeking effective and reliable assistance in your weight loss journey, a weight loss clinic in Temecula, CA, is a valuable resource. With personalized plans, expert guidance, ongoing support, and a focus on overall well-being, these clinics can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle and consult with a trusted weight loss clinic in Temecula, CA, to embark on your transformative journey today.

[lifeonmarz-blog]

The 12 houses explained: short word format

1st: Aries, Mars, Yang, Dragon, Bee, Face, Eyes, Eyebrows, Voice, Accent, First Glance, Passion, Drive, Self Esteem, 3rd Eye, Intuition, Hard on yourself, Mutable, Patience, Leader, Stoic, Muscles, Neck/Head tension, Animals, Intensity, Head scarf, Tender headed, Attracting energy vampires, Hard headed, Red, Purple, Sexual energy, Humor, Introvert/extrovert, Fear of child baring because loss of freedom, Judgement, Lymph nodes, Guitar, Fast talker, Sharp talker, Forward thinking, Warrior, Personality, Spine...

2nd: Taurus, Venus, Yin, Panda, Neck/Throat, Throat chakra, Mouth, Thyroid, Heart, Pink, Blue, Fluid, Security, Resources, Musician, Silent, Introvert, Nose, Scent, Taste, Parent, Singing, Arms, Dancing, Food, Breeze, Partnership, Sharing, Values, Luxury, Pleasure, Easy going, Soft spoken, Naivety, Split decisions, Indecisive, Moon, Father, Sturdy, Poker face, Children, Trustworthy, Grit, Victory, Horses, Trials...

3rd: Gemini, Mercury, Yin/Yang, Jack Rabbit, Hands, Feet, Speech, Tongue, Lungs, Fast pace, Exercise, excitement, Bounce back, Joy, Vigor, Youth, Fidget, Anxiety, Habits, Expressive, Musician, Storyteller, School, Journalist, Moral system, Networking, Group, Siblings, Questioning, Stocks/trading, Choices, Dedication, Picky, Options, Dare Devil, Flirt, Long lasting, Hopes, Trees/Forest, Art, Comedian, Chances, Materials, Time, Loyal, Boundaries, ...

4th: Cancer, Moon, Yin, Owl, Family, Mother, Compassion, Creation, Birth, Life, Regret, Sleep, Nipple, Breast, Anus, Stomach, Womb, Bellybutton, Heart, Sacral, Blue, White, Yellow, Ocean, Cold, Night, Cycle, Fly on the wall, Unspoken secrets, Pores, Suicide, Whispers, Distracted, Outsider, Alchemy, Caregiver, Chef, Guidance, Critical, Teeth, Passage/Gateway, Humming, Drums, Weight on your back, Pressures, Gratefulness, Gratitude, Obedience, Horse, Animals, Words that cut...

5th: Leo, Sun, Yang, Lion, Spine, Heart, Pets, Fun, Youthful, Children, Love affairs, Expression, Dance, Gymnastics, Loud, Bright colors, Short trips, Friends, Aunts/Uncles, Get togethers, Cars, Innovative, Actor, Protection, Magician, Gardening, Gossip, Alchemy, Adulthood, Relaxing, Bonding, Self destruction, Slick words, Hard work, Spotlight, Sharing, Rebuilding, Clothing, Renewed vision, Drawing board, Companionship, Grounding...

6th: Virgo, Mercury, Yin, Ant, Crane, Praying Mantis, Work environment, Routine, Structure, Time, Patience, Health issues, Hygiene, Nervous system, digestive system, Pancreas, Gallbladder, Notebooks, Writing, Movies, Home, Relaxing, Forgiving, Generous, Social Life, Bonding, Practice, Foresight, Letting go, Stable, Helpful, Tense, Pressure, Negative thoughts, Reminisce, Addiction, Sorrow, Indecision, Indigestion, Saving Finances, Strong will, Codependency, Maturing, Realizing, Criticism, Self Honoring...

7th: Libra, Venus, Yin, Dragon Fly, Peacock, Marraige, Partnership, Contracts, Joint endeavors, Kidneys, Bladder, Blood, Caring what others think, Voice, Accent, Culture, Rebuilding, Learning new ways to do, Home decor, Learning gratitude, Giving, Reseveing, Welcome home, Comfort, Jot, Warmth, Spring, Flowers, New thought processes, Building Legacy, Defending yourself, Possessions, Slower living, Connecting to nature, Center of attention...

8th: Scorpio, Pluto, Mars, Yin/Yang, Vulture, Jaguar, Phoenix Death/Rebirth, Fears, Dark, Dreams, Escaping, Running, Hoarding, Lack, Homelessness, Strength, Stamina, Restart, Hard work paying off, Legacy, Against all odds, Elimination system, Pelvis, All the holes in the body, Burgundy, Purple, Black, Sex organs, Releasing worries, Manipulation, Smothering, Misunderstood, Coffee, Over giving, Partnership, Friendship, Sensuality, Secretion, Body odor, Roses, Fruit trees, Chapel, Railroad, Balancing, Power, Unseen forces, Intimidation, Relaxation...

9th: Sagittarius,Jupiter, Yang, Donkey, Whale, Shark, Liver, Legs, Posture, Religion, Long distance, Foreign travel, New ideas, Creative thoughts, Energy, Witty, Nomad, Idealistic, Larger than life, Focused on success, Friendship, Gatherings, Social Life, Relaxing, Luxury, Boundaries, Tired, Mental Illness, Restrictions, Insecurities, Grandparents, Quiet time, Relationships, Sharing, Attention, Harmony, Rebirth, Hard work, Getting over, Time, Late night thoughts, Male role model, Weight on your back, Responsibilities, Greedy, Guarded, Proud, Protection, Unique, Lavender...

10th: Capricorn, Saturn, Yang, Sheep, Alligator Honey Badger, Cactus, Sterile, Marble, White, Grey, Cold, Winter, Snow, Reputation, Social status, Farming, Popularity, Bones, Skin, Nails, Hair, Sharp, Leather, Goat, Structure, Skin conditions, Over explaining, Hard on others/yourself, Violin, Holding onto the past, Hard choices, Seeing others happen, Collecting, Finding purpose, Unique interest, Creative ways to make money, Standing up for yourself, Tunnel vision, Sharing, Networking, Group efforts, Working on love...

11th: Aquarius, Uranus, Yin/Yang, Moose, Mongoose, Snake, Friends, Parties, Organizations, Goals, Hopes, School, Science, mutable, unique style, Different friend groups, Water, Lakes, Rivers, Driving, Circulatory System, Pituitary glands, Changing course, Fear of change, Social media, Learning to stand alone, Trusting intuition, Defending loved ones, nonchalant, Increasing expectations, Std, Dead tree, Sticking it out, Elders, Community, Taking a stand, Protest, Elections, Politics, Numbers, Releasing restrictions...

12th: Pisces, Neptune, Yin, Fish, Birds, Friends, More to go around, Letting go, Releasing Past, Decor, Eye for style, Luxury, Opinionated, Energy field, Subconscious, Mountains, Fog, Spa, Skincare, Hygiene, Safety, Frienemies, Luck, Protection, Unprovided jealously, Foreign, Secret, Being watched, Self expression, Confidence, Talents, Anxiety, Depression, Breath, Dreams, Sleeping, Ufc/boxing, Always wanting more, Magician, Plants, Sunshine, Exotic, Target, Maturity, Completion...

[mysumeow]

HIII IS IT ALRIGHT TO REQ A YANDERE ALBEDO X READER SMUT N ANGST? I've been trying to look ALL over socials to find a good piece but I couldn't😭 would be wonderful for you to make one! BTW LOVE UR WORK UR DOING SO GREAT!!!!!💟💟💟

ꗃ ENSNARE

Warnings: afab genitalia, gn pronouns. YANDERE albedo, reader is forced to drink a potion, reader experiences memory loss, may be considered as dubcon, PIV unprotected sex.

Summary: Albedo isn't fond of the idea of you being away from him indefinitely. He proceeds to take matters into his own hands.

Word count: 3.3k

A/N: ANON TY TT_TT ILY <3. I think that Albedo as a yandere is a strange mixture of both being sadistic if pushed enough in that direction and being a gentle lover. He's just ironic like that. He can also be manipulative if he considers he needs to be. >:()

MASTERLIST

Being granted a chance to study at Sumeru's Akademiya was an achievement worthy of celebration.

Sucrose and Timeus congratulated you.

Albedo, on the other hand...well, he did too; however, not before a strange look settled in his eyes before he cleared his throat and congratulated you.

One week away from your departure, you still have one more obligation to take care of before you leave.

Albedo and you had been researching an experimental mix for memory loss. Not for getting rid of it, but rather for the opposite. Albedo did have a hidden streak for coming up with quite questionable ideas, but he claimed it's all for the sake of innovation and research.

He was quieter than usual as you worked on preparing the final touches to the potion. He even avoided your eyes, and that, of course, stung.

You were about to go abroad for a couple of years, and he was giving you the cold shoulder...?

"For how long will you be away?"

When the alchemist voices his question out of the blue, it took you by surprise. You bit your tongue to avoid answering with a passive-aggressive comment about his distant attitude. Instead, you answered with sincerity.

"Two years. Maybe more if I get a job there," you watched the bubbles form in the liquid. It was almost done.

"Hm, I see."

Is that all you'll say?

You couldn't help but be a bit annoyed.

"Although I am overjoyed about your promising future, I fret that I have to remind you that we aren't done with this research," the liquid stopped bubbling, and Albedo took the glass to shake it side to side. "And your duty, as a fellow alchemist, is to follow through with it,"

"..." well, he wasn't wrong. You did promise that you would complete this important experiment in a way to show your gratitude to him for taking you under his wing. "I was hoping that you would...excuse me, this time,"

Albedo's gaze seemed to stray off into deep thought.

"A reasonable assumption on your part," his voice was calm, even if that serenity didn't translate into his eyes. "I'll concede. You mustn’t delay your departure for the sake of testing and re-doing the formula in case it doesn't work,"

That relieved a weight off your shoulders.

"Nonetheless, I do ask for assistance in fetching additional ingredients in Dragonspine. It's less work, is it not?"

"Thank you, Albedo," you said, forcing a smile. Although you were hoping he would just let you go, you figured it was way less work than you had to do. "I'll be here tomorrow,"

"I'd like to depart at seven. I'd recommend you be ready by six at the latest," he nodded. He seemed to be in a better mood.

"Will do. See you tomorrow. Have a good rest."

"Goodnight.”

Once in your home, you had time to reflect on Albedo's attitude during this last meeting.

From the time you had known him, you never felt like he was dissatisfied with something you did. Not even when you first began dipping your toes into the field of alchemy and committed various mistakes that ended up in explosions, would he get as displeased as he did these past days. He was a patient teacher, guiding you towards the path of a successful alchemist. And, as a friend, he was also gentle and nice.

So, that's why you couldn't ignore the shiver that crawled up your spine for a reason you weren’t sure. He was just acting odd...

Uncertainty gnawed at the back of your mind while you prepared your equipment for tomorrow's trip. The more the clock ticked, the more it grew.

The longer you thought about the cold, difficult way up to Albedo's lab in that forsaken mountain, the more you doubted if you were willing to go through with it. You had a lot of preparations to do yet, and a trip to Dragonspine would take up at least two days.

Your arms went limp as you stared at the half-full suitcase on your bed. You were still in time to tell him about your change of heart. You could look for him in his office at the Knight of Favonius's headquarters if you went right now.

You finished putting your shoes back on and went ahead to open your door.

Your heart almost jumped out of your chest when the person who was occupying a good portion of your thoughts was standing right in front of you.

"Albedo...?"

"May I come in?"

You blinked twice, still recovering from the unexpected visit.

Albedo's teal eyes widened a bit as he raised his eyebrows and looked at you with confusion. "Is everything alright?"

"No-! Yeah! I mean, good timing. I was about to head out and talk to you," you stepped aside to let him in. "What brings you here?"

"Wanted to check up on you and make sure you packed the right supplies. You don't go up there as often as Sucrose and Timeus do," he gripped the strap of the bag on his shoulder.

"How... considerate," you planned to think about what you were going to say to him on the walk to the headquarters, but his sudden appearance left you unprepared as to how to approach the topic.

He glanced at your suitcase for a brief second before he spoke again: "You might reconsider the boots you're taking. Do you, perchance, have one with better insulation?"

"Albedo," you interjected more impulsively than you should've. Albedo turned to draw his attention to you. "I was thinking, maybe I can't do that trip. You see, I'm a week away from my departure. And I have lots of stuff to take care of before I go. I'm sorry that I'm sort of abandoning the project before its absolute completion, but..."

"I understand," Albedo's faint smile almost put you at ease. "You're busy. Everyone is, including myself,"

You just nodded, hoping this conversation would end already.

"So, let's skip the trip and go straight to the testing phase."

Weight placed on your hips and wrists, pain on the back of your head as you laid on the floor—it happened too fast. Soon, you began wrestling your arms, trying to break free from his grip but failing at it. You didn't understand how someone of Albedo's build and height could have such strength.

Your arms trembled, and you gritted your teeth, trying to push him off you. Fed up with your resistance, Albedo shoved you more against the floor, as if trying to prove a point—you're not going anywhere.

"I'd advise against making this harder than it already is," Albedo furrowed his eyebrows, his other hand pulling out the concoction out of the bag he had brought.

"Are you listening to yourself? You're asking me to stay calm in a situation like this?" your efforts to break free didn't falter for a single moment. "Are you out of your mind, Albedo? What the fuck is wrong with you!"

He didn't even seem to be listening to you; he unscorched the flask and poured the liquid into his mouth. He leaned down towards your lips, and you didn't need a second more to understand what he wanted to do.

He discarded the empty flask and took the opportunity to use his now free hand to pinch your nose, forcing you to open your mouth out of absolute distress and forcing the liquid into you.

You tasted blood, and at the same time, Albedo grunted from pain. You had injured his lip out of spite without thinking twice, but rather than angered, he had a pleased look instead.

"Why," you cried, your heart aching from having your trust broken by someone as important to your life as Albedo.

"Isn't it evident enough already? Ah, my apologies. You have your moments of being dull, needing aid from me to spell it out, don't you?"

Albedo was mocking you.

How much crueler could he be?

"There are reasons aplenty for these actions. One of them is that I can't stand the idea of letting you go. I hope you can find the possibility of forgiving me before you forget everything."

Seeing you were slipping out of conscience, Albedo finally let you go and cradled your head, resting his cheek against your temple, murmuring soothing promises that you didn't believe.

The place where you woke up was soft and comforting. It smelled of fresh linen and the faint aroma of cecilias.

Coming into your senses, you rose from the bed and looked around, recognizing you had no recollection of why you were here or who you were...

Your first instinct was to head to the door, which you did. 

A cold gust of wind blew straight into you, your once warm cheeks felt chilled at the drastic change in temperature. You shielded your eyes and squinted, discerning a pair of boots advancing in your direction.

"You're shivering," a pale, blond stranger with azure eyes guided you back inside with tender hands.

The stranger closed the door behind him with his leg and set down the stuff he was carrying. He brushed off the snowflakes left on your hair, not yet meeting your eyes.

"I know you have a lot of questions…”

You interpreted that as an invitation to ask away, which you did. The basic information about yourself, what's in this place, and about him.

Albedo wasn’t one to opt for easier ways out when it came to his work. He pushed himself to his limits, neglecting his commodity for the sake of advancing with his studies the most he could; he broke that habit with you. He chose the easy way out to avoid losing you; he chose the easy way out to trick you into feeling safe with him now.

“You can’t leave this place. There are people out there who want to hurt you.”

 Himself, being the first one to wound your trust.

“The moment they see you, they’ll want to pounce on you.”

Not for the reason he was deceiving you to believe in. They’d run to you to hug you and ask why you had disappeared.

“I still must go down the mountain to bring what we need to live here in relative tranquility. Don’t worry about it, I’ll handle it,” he rubbed soothing circles with his thumbs into your shoulders, his voice��s timbre akin to an analgesic. “Whatever you need, let me know,”

Albedo’s soft gaze was the first one you met back then, and as the days went by, not once did you sense any danger or discomfort within his presence. Considering that he was the only person you interacted with, you soon found yourself growing more attached to him.

Albedo sat down on the bed you shared, shrugging off his coat. He just came back from one of those trips he made to bring water, food, and other indispensable supplies. You watched him in silence, wondering if it would be alright if you acted on your heart’s whims.

He took off his boots too and undid his braids before he laid down next to you, facing the ceiling. His eyes were half-lidded from exhaustion. His chest rose and fell at a languid pace, his cheeks red from the cold.

He must've noticed your prolonged stare because he spoke up: “What did you do today?”

“Oh, I just stared at the wall,” you joked.

Albedo smiled, glad that you had at least retained some of your personality.

“I went through your sketchbook. The place where you go to fetch our stuff appeared to be warm and bright,” you sighed, longing to feel the sunlight on your skin and not the cold breeze trying to fight off what little warmth the sun provided. “I also tidied what I could, but there’s not much stuff to organize anyways,”

He hummed, his eyes still not meeting yours.

“Albedo—” you called out for him before you could stop yourself. You covered your mouth afterwards, but it was already done. You had the entirety of his attention on you.

“Yes?” he turned to face you; his cheek squished against the pillow.

Now that you thought about it, you realized you rarely glanced at his face, at least not with this amount of clarity. He was close; you could appreciate in detail every feature of his, like how the locks of hair he braided framed his face in a different way now that they were untied.

“I noticed there’s something worrying you,” he uttered.

Calling him was one thing your heart ached to do, and placing your hand on his cheek was another. The latter, however, you acted out on.

His face was warm. You expected it to be the opposite, but you were happy that it wasn’t the case. And it grew warmer the more you left your hand there and the more you approached his lips.

And the kiss heightened in intensity whilst his hands found your hips, and you positioned your leg over his. You wondered if his heartbeat was as fast as yours did now or if he had fantasized of something like this occurring. He didn’t push you away. In fact, he pulled you in closer. He locked his arms around your frame, loving you with a desperation not usual of him.

It was evident in his eyes how much he yearned for this, for your love. Despite that, he took his time to undress you, caress the expanse of your abdomen, and kiss every inch of your skin. His hands went from your hips towards your chest and gave you a gentle squeeze. Your body’s response occupied his keen observation; thumbs rubbed on your nipples, and more arousal pooled between your thighs. His index fingers joined to pinch them carefully��a moan left you, and his heated attention shifted towards your face.

Albedo swallowed hard before he shifted positions to sit between your parted legs. His kisses went to your neck, and a hand slid down towards your glistening folds. He prodded first, marveling at how slick you already were, and then glided a finger inside. You hugged him closer, unused to that sensation. You were hiding your face in his hair, but Albedo didn’t mind.

A finger became two, increasing the tempo little by little. Even though the stimulation wasn’t directed to your clit, his palm rubbed the spot anyway.

“More,” you panted, your arms tightening around his lean frame. You could feel the muscles on his back tense and release from his movements, and his hot breath was fanning your neck. Albedo, always responsive and pliant to your wants, rubbed his thumb faster against your clit, the thrusting of his fingers inside of you became sloppier. You’d be embarrassed at the amount of slick sticking to your inner thighs, but right now, you don’t have the mind for it.

Just before you reached the edge, he stopped.

“Albedo,” you whined, tears forming in your eyes from your ruined orgasm.

He didn’t seem guilty in the slightest when he cupped your face and swallowed any other complaints you had by claiming your lips with his; tongue slipping against yours, and softly groaning into the kiss. You felt him suckle your tongue a bit and pull away. You almost whined from the loss, but your thoughts vanished once he stroked your clit with his dick. Albedo’s interest piqued each time you twitched from pleasure, taking in your reactions.

“Put your legs on my shoulders,” he asked, waiting for you to come back into your senses to do so. With uncoordinated movements, you managed to follow through with the request, and he pulled you in closer.

Hot.

It was ardent when it made contact with your stimulated and sensitive hole. Albedo had trouble controlling his heartbeat, and after some seconds of preparation, he eased in. It was an enjoyable stretch, reckoning Albedo’s intent on satisfying you.

Albedo filled you to completion, the tip poking a vulnerable spot inside of you. The tremors in your body didn’t subside when he touched it, and he could feel it himself. Gripping your hips with a firm hold, Albedo began thrusting. In and out—a coordinated and gradual pace. You were getting used to the sensation of having something of that girth inside of you, and Albedo was trying not to cum so fast.

“Your body reacts so beautifully when I touch you here,” Albedo’s fingers went back to your clit, and you arched your back when he began stimulating it in tandem with his thrusting. He was about to say something else until a groan cut him off, feeling you clench around him.

Whatever self-restraint he preserved left his movements closer to fucking than lovemaking, with how fast and hard he was yanking your hips in his direction. Not like you would complain, anyway, since his sleek fingers (from your wetness) were rubbing on your clit. You were treated to the airy groans and gasps that emerged from his bitten lips and the unusual sight of the collected alchemist losing his composure, thanks to you.

You approached an orgasm faster than you thought you would, stopping your body with spasms and blanking your mind. You managed to hear Albedo’s own groan of pleasure and hot, thick spurts of cum inside of you. Albedo hurried to kiss you, ensnaring your body taut to him, making sure everything went inside.

You were tired, and you didn’t even care that Albedo was still resting on top of you. After a few minutes, he pulled out and laid next to you, hugging your shivering frame to his.

“Do you want me to prepare a bath?” he kissed your temple.

“That sounds like a good idea,” you mumbled, clinging to him.

The next morning came, and Albedo found he had to go back down for an emergency. You couldn’t help but stare at him as he prepared himself to go out, wishing you could go along with him.

“I’ll be here as soon as I can,” he said, putting his coat on before going away. “If I’m not here by nighttime, expect me to arrive in the morning,”

You nodded, considering whether you should attempt to ask him to tag along.

By the time you made up your mind, he was already gone.

Last night, as you were drifting off to sleep, you recalled some information regarding Albedo: he’s an alchemist.

You had no recollection of him ever telling you the precise field of his work, but for some reason, you were convinced it was a fact.

The more you fell down the rabbit hole with the question of why you were so convinced about it, the more you began remembering bits of information before you were brought here.

You glanced at the pile of research notes, notebooks, and sketchbooks left on the desk. Amongst the notebooks, you recognized one he tends to take with him whenever he heads outside of Dragonspine. For a moment, you entertain the idea of running after him to give it, since it’s important. You decide against it, given that you don’t have the appropriate equipment to stand the unforgiving temperature or something to guide you.

Days like this were boring, so instead of looking through his drawings, you went through the notebook.

A particular page catches your attention.

You skimmed through it, the mumble-jumble of words not inspiring you to stop and analyze it. However, the moment you identify a series of daily records detailing who worked to create this experimental potion and the progress made with each study—

You found your name.

[isalisewrites]

TERRIBLE, BUT GREAT - CHAPTER FORTY-ONE

SUMMARY:

“Harry Potter.” The cold burrowed into his flesh, the scent of cloying death and molding earth clogged his senses.

“The Boy Who Lived.”

A strange sense of loss and disappointment rose within him. That brilliant, yet cruel boy could’ve been so much more if he’d not stepped down this bloodied path.

Terrible, but great. He pitied this creature.

“Come to die.”

Harry Potter faced the flash of green light with the bravery of a Gryffindor and the broken heart of a Hufflepuff.

---

When Death gives Harry a third option, one that can save everyone he ever cared about, he takes it unflinchingly. Even when that means doing the impossible: falling in love with the enemy, Tom Riddle.

---

FORTY-ONE EXCERPT:

Tom had been too busy coughing to notice the bright yellow spell that flashed through the smokescreen. It slammed into his forehead. Strange sensations crawled over his scalp, prickling and itchy.

“That had better not be a spell for head lice,” snapped Tom. He put a hand to the top of his head and froze.

Pink and white petals fluttered around him. 

Harry cackled, safely hidden in the smokescreen. Tom gripped velvet stems and tried to pull, but he gasped out a wince when it felt as if he were tugging on his own hair. More petals fluttered down and rested at his feet.

“Those geraniums look amazing on you, Tom. You really should go to class like that.”

You…

Tom’s hand clenched around the hilt of his wand.

Why you little minx.

A quick finite vanished the flowers and restored his hair back to normal. Tom exhaled, long and slow, the tension easing from his chest. His mind cleared of all thoughts.

He smiled.

The Room of Requirement answered their duel with fluid movement of its own. Tom vanished the smoke and the room melded into a rocky terrain, giant boulders of varying sizes blocking the view. That all familiar thrill ghosted up Tom’s spine, the one that he learned he only experienced when Harry was involved. He craved it. Tom needed it—needed to feel this thrill always with Harry.

But more than that, he should’ve known that this day would’ve been better with Harry at his side.

Harry leapt out from behind a boulder with a laugh, spells firing in Tom’s direction; he deflected them, returning fire in a spray of multicolored lights. Harry disappeared behind a boulder and Tom darted after him. There was a squawk of surprise; light crackled against a sudden shield.

“Shit—”

Harry ducked, just as his shield shattered. He laughed, breathless. The ground moved beneath Tom’s feet, as if it were made of water. Sand appeared, the boulders transforming and sinking. Tom fell backwards with a gasp and a delighted chuckle, the wave of sand carrying him away from the other boy. Harry slipped on the sand with a curse and wheezing laugh.

The scent of salt lifted into the air; a gentle ripple of waves echoed around them. Sand slipped into his trainers. Tom’s weight sank into the sand, nearly covering the entirety of his feet.

Harry grinned.

He lifted his wand and a wave of water followed it. Tom watched it approach and a sigh of resignation escaped his breast. His shield did little to keep him dry as the wave crashed over him, but he did manage to stay on his feet. Tom spluttered lightly. He swiped a hand over his face, clearing the water away. Salazar, he was soaked to the bone.

Chaotic and wild.

Steady and innovative.

Just like Harry.

The room answered to them in like manner. It shifted again, this time turning into a vast forest with dense foliage on the ground. Gnats buzzed around Tom’s ears. He quickly dried himself off and banished the sand from his person. He turned; Harry grinned up at him from a couple of feet away.

“Partullae!”

Bubbles popped to life all around Tom. One floated near his face and Tom flicked it away in annoyance, but it popped and drenched him in red and gold dye. The dye splattered the nearby leaves and branches.

Tom spluttered.

Harry cackled.

Another bubble popped beside Tom’s ear; he flinched as a spray of something wet and cold coated the side of his face and neck. He put a hand to it and looked to see it coated in pink and orange.

“Is this a duel or toddler’s playground?” asked Tom.

“It can be whatever you want,” said Harry, lifting his wand and grinning like a possessed little demon. “Besides, you looked too serious about this duel and today’s too much of a special day for everything to be gloomy and serious.”

What?

“What’s so special about today?” whispered Tom.

He can’t know. I’ve told no one before, not even Alphard and Quintus. He’s talking about New Years is all.

Right?

Yet, knowing Harry… with his penchant for knowing everything…

But Harry didn’t answer. With a flick of his wand, he conjured a flock of multicolored birds. The flock dove for Tom, claws outstretched and clutching hundreds of those bubbles.

A touch of thrilling fear rushed through Tom’s veins with a surge of adrenaline.

He bolted, throwing up a shield. The flock crashed against him, colorful paint and dye spraying all around him, droplets hitting his clothes.

Harry broke into squeals of laughter.

Well, two can play at that game.

[astrologged]

Physical appearance of the signs

Sun | Ascendant | Midheaven

Aries: Are often associated with a lean and athletic build, with a prominent forehead, high cheekbones and a broad neck. They may also have sharp and angular facial features, with a strong jawline and expressive eyes. They often have a confident and bold demeanor, which can be reflected in their physical appearance.

Taurus: Are often associated with a sturdy and robust build and may have a rounder and fuller face, with soft features such as full cheeks, sensual lips and a rounded nosetip and deep, penetrating eyes. They have a calm, grounded and soft demeanor, which can be reflected in their physical appearance. The Venusian energy can manifest in the person's physical appearance, making them appear beautiful to others.

Gemini: Have a more slender and athletic build, with long limbs and a youthful appearance. They may also have a more expressive and angular face, with a prominent nose and sharp features. They tend to have a bigger, more prominent upper lip and are very expressive with their hands. They have a curious and talkative demeanor, which can be reflected in their physical appearance.

Cancer: have a softer and rounder appearance, with a tendency to gain weight in the hips and thighs. They may also have a fuller, rounder face with gentle features, and large and expressive, sometimes watery eyes. They’re known for their nurturing and empathetic personalities, which can be reflected in their physical appearance. 

Leo: Tend to have a strong and confident appearance, with a more prominent and dramatic bone structure and big and/or full hair, they are prone to gaining weight on the lower side of the face. Males with a Leo ascendant might suffer from loss of hair early on. Overall Leo has a charismatic and outgoing demeanor, which can also be reflected in their physical appearance.

Virgo: Tend to have a more refined and delicate appearance, with a slender and angular bone structure, with a lean and toned build. They may have a more angular and symmetrical face, with a high forehead and a straight nose, and are very expressive with their hands. They ave a reserved and analytical demeanor, which can also be reflected in their physical appearance. They tend to look younger than their actual age.

Libra: Tend to have a balanced and symmetrical appearance, with a more refined and attractive bone structure. Their bodies are balanced and proportionate. They have a charming and diplomatic demeanor, which can be reflected in their physical appearance. The Venusian energy can manifest in the person's physical appearance, making them appear beautiful to others.

Scorpio: Tend to have an intense and magnetic appearance, with a more angular and defined bone structure and a sharp, sometimes angular nose with deep and penetrating eyes. They have a mysterious and passionate demeanor, which can be reflected in their physical appearance.

Sagittarius: Tend to have a more athletic and adventurous appearance, with a more elongated and lean bone structure. They often have a more expressive and animated face, with a prominent forehead and bright, friendly eyes. They have a playful, outgoing and independent demeanor, which is reflected in their physical appearance.

Capricorn: Tend to have a more serious and mature appearance, with a more prominent and structured bone structure with a square jawline and more serious looking eyes. They’re usually of average size, quite proportionate. They have a disciplined and ambitious demeanor, which is also reflected in their physical appearance.

Aquarius: Are often associated with a more unique appearance, with a tendency towards a lean and angular build. They have a striking and expressive face, with high cheekbones and piercing eyes. They prefer to look authentic and often decide to wear unconventional clothes. They have an independent and innovative demeanor, which can also be reflected in their physical appearance.

Pisces: Tend to have a more dreamy and ethereal appearance, with a softer and more delicate bone structure and oftentimes a pale skin. They may have a more gentle and sensitive face, with large and expressive watery eyes. They have a compassionate and artistic demeanor, which is often reflected in their physical appearance.

[elvis1970s]

Fairytale, a Pointer Sisters cover, was recorded by Elvis in early 1975 and featured as an album track on Today, released in May of that year. It would remain in the live set right up to the end. This joyous version was captured in a good quality audience recording during Elvis' dinner show in Las Vegas on August 20th, 1975. He's in such great form that it's actually quite hard to believe that following the second show that night, the engagement would be abruptly cancelled (just three nights in) and Elvis would be flown back to Memphis and admitted to hospital.

United Press international (UPI) issued a syndicated report on the sudden cancellation;

“…He just got very tired and fatigued and we thought it would be best if he cut his show here short this time rather than run into complications," said Dr. Elias Ghanem, the singer's Las Vegas physician. "We can't find much wrong with him. One of the liver enzymes is elevated and what he needs is rest…”

Dr Ghanem (1939-2001) enjoyed an enviable lifestyle from his business activities and from billing a number of wealthy and undoubtedly generous Las Vegas entertainers for treatment of, amongst other things, ‘Vegas Throat’ – raspy soreness caused by a combination of the dry desert air and the air-conditioning (and passive smoking) within the hotels and casinos. He was also a proponent of the sleep diet; a regimen of weight loss that appeared to involve the patient being sedated for much of the time and consuming liquid nutrition during rare moments of consciousness. Elvis himself had availed himself of this regime on at least one occasion.

The Irish Times wrote an obituary for Dr Ghanem upon his death from renal cancer in 2001.

“…He was Elvis Presley's personal physician, as well as the doctor for Elvis's posthumous son-in-law Michael Jackson. Although his patient list also included Liberace, Bill Cosby, Ann-Margret, and Virginia Kelley (the mother of former President Bill Clinton), it was Ghanem's relationship with The King which first brought him under the spotlight of unwanted notoriety. When ABC's television programme '20-20' reported that he had supplied the drugs which essentially killed Presley, Dr Ghanem threatened to sue - but he never did…”

The article also noted that Ghanem had been the subject of an FBI investigation over billing, but never charged, and that Colonel Parker had a financial interest in Ghanem's clinic situated conveniently adjacent to the Las Vegas Hilton.

"...Ghanem expanded his practice to include a chain of clinics around Las Vegas, treating literally thousands of patients. He proposed innovative umbrella health-insurance schemes long before they came into vogue, and signed contracts with the Hotel and Casino Workers' Union, by far the largest group of workers in Nevada. The arrangement was obviously a profitable one for Ghanem, but union leader John Wilhelm, recalled that during a protracted six-year strike at the Frontier Casino, Ghanem treated every worker free of charge and delivered over a hundred babies for the striking workers..."

Following the cancellation, Elvis was flown back to Memphis where he was admitted to a private suite on the top floor of Baptist Memorial Hospital. His next professional engagement was back in Las Vegas in December making up for the cancelled shows.

[nutriwellnesshq]

Are you struggling to lose weight, no matter how much you diet or exercise?

[jinkookspencil]

bts as musicals

simply put, bts as staged musicals i'm familiar with. a very random list and post i wrote up at 3am. it's not to be taken too seriously of course, and this is just my sleep-deprived opinion and take

namjoon - hamilton

i feel this is self explanatory for anyone familiar with both hamilton and nj

hamilton, entirely self written about a self-made man with the weight of the world on his shoulders who needed to prove himself, all while being completely in homage to rap legends through and through

HELLO????

hamilton is also a musical very centered around loss and i can really see that in joon

loss, rap, and the eternal internal struggle!!!

he'd have so much fun with it but it'd wreck him

satisfied especially

also i hate to make this point but when it comes to the hate that these two receive, sometimes it’s clear that it’s really forced hatred

seokjin - hairspray

the ladies choice amiright ladies?

obviously there’s link, the very attractive man who everyone wants 

who is hopelessly in love with a plus sized beauty <3333 so jin

jin has often expressed his love of being “unserious” and we all know he can be like that mostly on camera, but he definitely has that more serious side that really is the basis for his character

isn’t that vaguely reminiscent of hairspray too though?

we often think of it as this unserious musical but it actually has more layers than one might remember, discussing prejudice, body image, individuality, self-image, integrity

i think all of those things matter a whole lot to seokjin 

yoongi - les miserables 

fuck the system 

really, all about rebellion and revolution 

but also let me break your heart a little

and let me make you remember that you’re actually living life

very similar themes across both yoongi’s solo work and les mis - injustice, class, tragedy, loss, to name a few. while also being so sympathetic towards its varied characters, reminiscent of yoongi’s sensitivity and mindset

shit think of how yoongi might react to 'i dreamed a dream'

hoseok - wicked 

I think jack in the box just solidifies this as my pick for hoseok tbh

because there’s the childlike wonder side we all see and know (wizard of oz, j-hope of bts)

but then everything that surrounds it and the real story behind it (wicked, jitb)

both wicked and jitb offer a look into a “character” we think we’re familiar with, but it turns out we really aren’t

when we finally see them tell their story in their own words

elphaba struggles with her “role” and so does hobi, literally spelling it out for us in jitb

they both feel trapped, and thus reclaim and reinvent themselves 

It’s a very identity-focused musical/album that still links back to prejudice in our world, too and "where they fit in"

jimin - chicago 

sex

chicago is a look into fame/celebrity and corruption and ambition, and i think jimin has quite strong values when it comes to that

to me, it seems as though he finds those topics very interesting to think about

and also, how that all intersects with sexuality and gender

it feels like the crux of what chicago is as a musical but also who jimin presents himself to be

taehyung - west side story

i wanted something that’s a bit of a more classic musical for taehyung, and out of the ones i am familiar with, wss seemed the most fitting (tho i have a sneaky suspicion that one of the ones i am *not* familiar with might be more him)

taehyung is a romantic and, like nj, he almost romanticizes his losses and spends time looking back and reflecting on his own relationships and even his relationship with 'love' as a whole - layover proves it

so of course wss makes sense, the dance numbers, the longing, the risk of it all, the fact that it's story about "the power of love"

i think it'd leave quite the impact on tae, if he hasn't seen it yet

despite being a retelling of romeo & juliet (which tae would LOVE) wss also set the precedent for many musicals to come, much like tae did. looking back, it was very innovative for its time in so many different ways

musically, it's very taehyung. i could see him wanting to do covers of the songs. maria, tonight, and something's coming (he'd always go back to this song)

in every iteration of it, it's also very cinematic and very personal at the same time, which means it is very taehyung

jungkook - grease 

I didn’t WANT to pick grease and feed into that stereotypical ‘bad boy jk’ idea

but like i can’t not

and it’s not so much that it is representative of who jk is as a person

except aesthetically (the dazed cover is proof)

but that i can see jungkook himself enjoying the musical numbers and poking fun at john travolta, imitating him in his dance moves

i think he’ll particularly enjoy “you’re the one that i want” and might develop some sort of ‘corruption’ fantasy of turning a good girl bad

this might be me projecting that i want jk to do to me shhhhhhh

oh and he will go through a phase of calling his car “grease lightning” and sing the song every damn time he gets in it

yeah it'd be hard as fuck to get jk to get rid of his john travolta impression

[mekandawn]

Thankfully, They're All Right :D

After nearly two decades of finding new and creative ways to crush their right foot, Caythaes had finally built themself boots with reinforced toes strong enough to survive everything short of having something wedged between the plating and prying them right off. They'd dropped everything they could think of onto the plated bridge of their foot; pikes, metal bars, an entire siege engine… the shape of the plating meant that pointed objects simply skidded off to the side, and the weight of heavy objects redistributed itself over the entire plate and off to the side instead of simply pressing downwards until their foot became crushed.

None of that innovation mattered much when a squad of Nerubians eruptted from the ground underneath Fate and start hauling her downward. Sure, the plating meant they could just dig their toes in and anchor themself in the ground, but instead of giving them the leverage they needed to haul Fate right back, Caythaes just got ripped right out of their boots.

Luckily, they only had one skinnable knee left, and their workpants were just as heavily reinforced as their boots. Unluckily, to the Nerubians Caythaes weighed about as much as a bunch of grapes, and while their attempt to rescue Fate was heroic in intent, the results were…

Sub-optimal.

The minor explosive they installed in their prosthetic foot didn't even leave a dent in the disturbed where Fate had once lain, and now, they were short one arm.

And one foot, but at least they carried a spare just in case.

They didn't have a spare arm, and the way it was sparking where it'd been ripped from the elbow hurt. It had been a long time since their prosthetic arm had been damaged in such a way, the metal struts twisted until they snapped and the elbow joint torn in half. Azerite dripped from ragged tubing, and the wires…

The wires were the worst. The pain signals firing with each twitch and spark sent Caythaes careening to the ground with tears in their eyes as they flailed with their right hand, trying to find the quick release built into the base of the prosthetic. Why had they built it so small? It was just a tiny latch, a shallow indent deep enough for their fingertips to catch it. In practice, they knew it was meant to keep the release from triggering accidentally, but now, as they dragged their fingers blindly over the metal of their bicep, they deep regretted their choice.

Finally, Caythaes found the latch and as they triggered the release, everything from their mid-bicep down went numb and their body felt completely unbalanced. The familiar weight of their prosthetic was gone, leaving their left side feeling roughly 70lbs lighter.

“Fuck,” they swore, kicking at the dirt with their sock covered left heel. “Eternal Sun damn it,” they added for good measure, groaning as they rolled upright. “I don't- I don't know if anyone is- is going to be mad at me for this,” they murmured, digging out their spare foot - little more than a springy bit of metal bent into a question mark shape - and slotting it into place with their right hand. “But I'm mad at me for this.”

With a sigh, Caythaes scrambled to their feet and unsteadily made their way back to their boots, wobbling with every step as they tried to re-calibrate their sense of balance. They'd figure it out eventually, but the thought was little comfort as they made their way towards where the rest of the survivors were gathering. Hopefully, if nothing else, Fate found the lockpicks and the emergency healing potion they kept stored in the forearm.

Or the grappling hook that fired out of the wrist. Or spring-loaded the knives in the knuckles.

(Takes place before Adult Supervision Required. I should go edit it to include the loss of their arm )

[artmindlens]

Untitled (Woman with Bird) by Pablo Picasso (1939), Private Collection.

Picasso’s Untitled (Woman with Bird) presents a striking visual narrative that explores themes of conflicted emotions and the complexities of human identity. The fragmented and distorted figure of the woman, coupled with the bird she holds, reflects a powerful tension between the internal and external world—between nurturing, control, and freedom.

Conflict Between Control and Freedom The bird in the painting can be seen as a symbol of both freedom and fragility. Birds, traditionally associated with the spirit or the soul, here represent the tension between control and release. The woman’s grip on the bird suggests a desire to possess and protect, yet the bird’s outstretched wings hint at its inevitable desire for freedom. This duality mirrors a psychoanalytic struggle: the conflict between holding onto what one desires (whether a person, an idea, or a status) and the need to let go, knowing that true control is often unattainable.

In a business or leadership context, this dynamic can be interpreted as the struggle between controlling outcomes and allowing for innovation and creativity to flourish. A leader who resonates with this painting may unconsciously recognize their own need to balance structure with flexibility, to both guide their team while allowing individuals the freedom to explore and grow.

Fragmentation of Identity Picasso’s cubist style in this work highlights the fragmentation of the self. The woman’s body is fractured into multiple geometric shapes, representing the complex layers of identity. This visual fragmentation can be interpreted as a reflection of internal conflict—a mind torn between opposing desires, such as the need for intimacy and the desire for independence.

The woman’s distorted face, in particular, reflects the notion that identity is not fixed, but rather a collection of conflicting selves. This can evoke a sense of disorientation or dissociation in the viewer, highlighting the ways in which external expectations and internal desires often clash. In leadership, this speaks to the challenge of maintaining a coherent identity under the weight of responsibility, societal pressures, and personal ambition.

Maternal Nurturing and Power The woman’s interaction with the bird also invites a maternal interpretation. The nurturing, protective gesture toward the bird may reflect the maternal instinct to care for and protect, but it’s contrasted by the bird’s desire for autonomy. This can evoke a tension present in leaders who struggle to balance nurturing their teams with allowing autonomy.

From a psychoanalytic perspective, this painting taps into deeper unconscious themes of dependency and autonomy—mirroring the way children rely on their mothers for protection and security while also yearning to break free and assert their independence. Executives and professionals may connect with this theme as they navigate the line between leading and empowering those they guide, while grappling with the emotional burden of letting go of control.

The Tension of Conflicting Desires The geometric shapes and jarring colors in Untitled (Woman with Bird) suggest a world of emotional conflict. The sharp angles and bold hues create a sense of discord that reflects the difficulty of reconciling opposing desires. The woman’s body, caught between the act of holding and releasing, symbolizes the tension that exists between the desire to protect and the inevitable reality of loss and separation.

For those drawn to this work, it may reflect an unconscious awareness of the conflicted emotions that arise in leadership and decision-making. Leaders may find themselves constantly balancing the need for control with the realization that, in many cases, true control is an illusion.

Leadership, Power, and Vulnerability In the context of leadership, Picasso’s woman is a symbol of power and vulnerability. She holds the bird, symbolising power over it, yet she is also vulnerable to its flight. Leaders who connect with this image may see themselves reflected in the figure—balancing authority and the fear of losing control. They may resonate with the internal struggles of identity and power, acknowledging that leadership often requires navigating the precarious balance between holding on and letting go.

[houseofbrat]

Never fear HoB - Becky English is here with the KP sponsored spin. If you look closely, you could see Lee scribbling this sycophancy out for her:

“Yes, he is thinner, more drawn around the face. Noticeably so, in fact. The new lines and shadows make clear that the trials and tribulations of the last year have taken their toll. But the prince has also been more animated, energised and, yes, even joyful than I have seen him for a very long time.”

“At times of crisis you draw your loved ones closer. Which explains why the Prince of Wales hasn’t left his family to go abroad since December last year.” — that’s odd considering Cathy was only having a “planned, routine surgery” in Dec and “cancer had been present” was found late Feb conveniently to explain Willy’s absence from the memorial?! 🤥

“On top of that he has had to protect his three young children as a ‘papa’ who could, at any sad turn, find himself acceding to the throne, thereby turning their relatively sheltered little lives upside down.” 🙄

“And the prince has been touched by the way in which Cape Town, not to mention the rest of Africa, has taken his ‘green Oscars’ to their hearts.” — no they haven’t, they’ve largely been apathetic…just like Heidi Klum who admitted she had no idea what EP was until Willy’s people approached her to attend (probably as a paid appearance).

“While William appears to be a man who has found his groove both as an innovator and heir to the throne.” 🙄����🤣

“Friends tell me he’s been talking non-stop about his children on the trip.” — it’s giving peak overcompensating single dad energy 🥴

Interestingly Becky’s article to wrap up The King’s state visit was behind a paywall so either Charles is a bigger draw or those Duchy funds are going towards making it worthwhile to publish such drivel.

I had to look up what his international trip was last December (2023). It was when he went to Kuwait to present condolences.

So tough.

Somehow he was able to travel to Germany more than once for the Euros. But that doesn't count as traveling "abroad"?

Can't wait to see his beard and weight loss in this year's Christmas card photo!

[agbpaints]

Name: Moth

Model: MTH-9L

Manufacturer: Ceres Metals Industries

Intro Year: 3145

Class: Light Battlemech

Cost: 4.677 mn c-bills

Weight: 30 T

Top Speed: 97.2 kph

Jump Capacity: 240 meters

Quirks: difficult to maintain, no/minimal arms, nimble jumper

In the wake of the 6th Andurian War, the Strategios of the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces determined that there was a need for a new, low cost light mech to serve as a forward observer and harassment unit in their augmented companies. While the venerable Raven remained in service, its relatively low speed and expensive suite of electronics lead to a number of costly losses during the conquest of Wallacia. To that end, specifications for a new scout were sent out for bids- the new mech had to be cheap, difficult for Free Worlds League precision energy weapons to engage with, and capable of engaging and providing support for indirect fire elements of the CCAF at a variety of ranges. Unusually, despite Hellespont Industrials, the Confederation's more seasoned light manufacturer, submitting a bid in the form of the Sunfire, Ceres Metals Industries won the contract. Their design, initially named Project GOSSAMER, was delayed several times due to production shortfalls and the discovery of a Federated Suns spy ring operating at Ceres' design bureau. Eventually the mech began full production in 3145 as the Moth.

An outwardly radical design, Ceres managed to reduce the cost of their bid significantly through the use of a number of off the shelf parts and existing research prototypes. The mech's engine was a GM 180 extralight fusion power plant, originally designed for a prototype Vindicator before the VND-4L project opted for a larger 225 power plant instead, allowing the 30 ton mech to achieve ground speeds of up to 97 kph. While this speed was deemed unacceptable for the task at hand, the mech's principle designer, Dr. Oxana Ufimtsev, opted to equip the mech with a battery of Anderson jump jets and used a novel delta design for the main hull of the mech, with very low profile arms and wide, integrated control surfaces to give the mech an unusually high glide coefficient. Together, these systems allow the Moth to leap distances similar to those achievable by the Spider, despite the mech's far less powerful engine. The cost of this innovative design is a frame with extremely cumbersome access points and systems not immediately intuitive to most mechtechs, leading to increased maintenance costs and repair times. When deployed in augmented formations alongside aerospace assets, technicians are commonly cross trained on both the unit's fighters and Moths, as the two repair schedules have been found to be similar.

The production model MTH-9L Moth uses a Moscovia light PPC as its main armament, supported by a pair of Ceres Arms model JX small pulse lasers mounted in the two weapons nacels that comprise the design's arms. Additionally, the mech carries a Diverse Optics ER small laser in the left arm and an Apple Churchill TAG system in the left, imported from Hellespont's Sian facility. Clad in 6 tons of Ceres mk III Stealth Armor, the Moth is easily capable of withstanding light fire from enemy mechs while confounding longer range sensor returns. Unfortunately, to make room for the light PPC, Ceres opted to reduce the size and ammenities of the mech's cockpit, resulting in complaints from pilots assigned to the machine for long scouting patrols.

In combat, Moths are most typically used as long range harassment units, using their stealth armor and long jump range to maintain evade enemy fire as they opportunistically engage with their TAG and light PPC. As the fight progresses, some pilots may choose to engage in more active combat, allowing the indirect elements they're supporting to remove the majority of a target'a armor before attempting to destroy vulnerable exposed components with their small lasers

The first recorded combat involving a Moth occurred on Brisbane between elements of the First Victoria Rangers and a raiding force of the Concordat Commandos. Captain Curtis Bao deployed a lance of Moths to waylay the advance of a Taurian armored colum and allow for his own heavy units and combat vehicles to position themselves in foothills east of the TDF landing site. The light mechs caught the tank company and their mech escorts by surprise, outflanking the vehicles and engaging into their weaker side armor at long range with their PPCs while painting targets for Bao's LRM carriers and Thunderbolts. Eventually, the Commandos' mechs rallied and began to engage the stealthy light lance, forcing them to withdraw, however the action blunted the Taurian advance and allowed time for the Victoria Rangers to mount a successful defense of Brisbane's capital, Badwater. The surviving Moths then saw use as city fighters, their jumping capabilities allowing them to manuever easily though the urban fabric of Badwater while their X-pulse lasers let them to brutally engage Taurian infantry.

As a new design, very few variants or operators outside the Confederation have yet to be spotted. Beyond the CCAF, a few Capellan aligned mercenary commands have been allowed to officially purchase small numbers of the design, while the allied Magistracy of Canopus has managed to acquire a number of lances of the mech through unknown sources.

While their infiltration was discovered and rooted out before the full design was finalized, MIIO operatives did manage to steal plans for the early prototypes of the Moth, which the New Avalon Institute of Science used as a test bed for re-engineered laser designs and new SRM munitions. A small production run of the design, similar but without the Capellan stealth armor, was produced by Corean Enterprises at their Augusta plant, but the AFFS appears to have abandoned adding the mech to its TO&E.

Finally, several examples of the Moth were captured by forces loyal to Alaric Ward's Star League during fighting on New Earth. The Jade Falcon remnant present immediately saw use in the design as a heavier alternative to their light Ion Sparrows. A Clantech refit of the mech has been spotted using an ER large laser in place of the PPC and a quartet of small pulse lasers in the weapons nacels.