#Refrigerants Market Research

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Refrigerants Market Industry Outlook: Forecasting Market Trends and Growth for the Coming Years

Refrigerants Market Strategies: Taking Advantage of Trends to Drive Growth in 2032

The Refrigerants Market Report provides essential insights for business strategists, offering a comprehensive overview of industry trends and growth projections. It includes detailed historical and future data on costs, revenues, supply, and demand, where applicable. The report features an in-depth analysis of the value chain and distributor networks.

Employing various analytical techniques such as SWOT analysis, Porter’s Five Forces analysis, and feasibility studies, the report offers a thorough understanding of competitive dynamics, the risk of substitutes and new entrants, and identifies strengths, challenges, and business opportunities. This detailed assessment covers current patterns, driving factors, limitations, emerging developments, and high-growth areas, aiding stakeholders in making informed strategic decisions based on both current and future market trends. Additionally, the report includes an examination of the Automatic Rising Arm Barriers sector and its key opportunities.

According to Straits Research, the global Refrigerants Market market size was valued at USD 24.20 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach from USD 26.11 billion in 2024 to USD 47.98 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.9% during the forecast period (2024–2032).

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TOP Key Industry Players of the Refrigerants Market

Honeywell International Inc 

DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, Ltd. 

Dongyue Group 

Arkema S.A. 

Linde Group 

SINOCHEM GROUP CO., LTD. 

Engas Australasia 

Hess Corporation 

Deepfreeze Refrigerants Inc. 

Tazzetti S.p.A 

Airgas, Inc. 

HyChill Australia 

Orbia Advance Corporation S.A.B. de CV 

The Chemours Company 

Air Liquide 

Puyang Zhongwei Fine Chemical Co.,Ltd. 

Shandong Yuanlian Chemical Co.,Ltd. 

Gas International Limited

Global Refrigerants Market: Segmentation

As a result of the Refrigerants market segmentation, the market is divided into sub-segments based on product type, application, as well as regional and country-level forecasts. 

By Product Type

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)

HydroFluoroOlefin (HFOs)

Carbon Dioxide

Ammonia

Propane

By Application

Air Conditioners

Refrigerators

Chillers and Heat Pumps

Others

By End-User

Residential

Commercial

Automotive

Industrial

Marine

Browse Full Report and TOC @ https://straitsresearch.com/report/refrigerants-market/request-sample

Reasons for Buying This Report:

Provides an analysis of the evolving competitive landscape of the Automatic Rising Arm Barriers market.

Offers analytical insights and strategic planning guidance to support informed business decisions.

Highlights key market dynamics, including drivers, restraints, emerging trends, developments, and opportunities.

Includes market estimates by region and profiles of various industry stakeholders.

Aids in understanding critical market segments.

Delivers extensive data on trends that could impact market growth.

Research Methodology:

Utilizes a robust methodology involving data triangulation with top-down and bottom-up approaches.

Validates market estimates through primary research with key stakeholders.

Estimates market size and forecasts for different segments at global, regional, and country levels using reliable published sources and stakeholder interviews.

About Straits Research

Straits Research is dedicated to providing businesses with the highest quality market research services. With a team of experienced researchers and analysts, we strive to deliver insightful and actionable data that helps our clients make informed decisions about their industry and market. Our customized approach allows us to tailor our research to each client's specific needs and goals, ensuring that they receive the most relevant and valuable insights.

Contact Us

Email: sales@straitsresearch.com

Address: 825 3rd Avenue, New York, NY, USA, 10022

Tel: UK: +44 203 695 0070, USA: +1 646 905 0080

[trendingreportz]

Refrigerant Oil Market - Forecast(2024 - 2030)

Overview

The Refrigerant Oil Market size is forecast to reach USD $1.6 billion by 2030, after growing at a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period 2024-2030.  Refrigerant Oil is a high-temperature formulation of a mixture of oil and additives devised for usage in cooling systems. It acts as a lubricant in refrigeration compressors, derived from both mineral and synthetic oil in order to lubricate or reduce friction of metal parts and wear on the compressor. The product flows under high pressure to turn from liquid to vapor state to generate a cooling effect due to its special characteristics such as better chemical and thermal stability, low contamination, low pour point, high dielectric strength and viscosity. Global environmental regulations, such as the Montreal Protocol and subsequent amendments like the Kigali Amendment, are driving the phase-out of high-GWP refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This shift is propelled by the need to curb greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Low-GWP refrigerants, including hydrocarbons, natural refrigerants (like ammonia and CO2), and hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), are gaining prominence due to their significantly reduced impact on global warming compared to their predecessors. The HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) sector is witnessing consistent growth globally, driven by urbanization, industrialization, and an increasing focus on indoor comfort and air quality. HVACR systems, including air conditioning units, heat pumps, and refrigeration equipment, rely on Refrigerant Oils for effective operation and lubrication of components like compressors, motors, and heat exchangers. Commercial buildings, industries, hospitals, and data centers require sophisticated HVACR systems for temperature control, preservation of goods, and maintaining optimal working environments.

Report Coverage

The report “Refrigerant Oil Market– Forecast (2024-2030)”, by IndustryARC, covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments of the Refrigerant Oil Market. By Type of Oil: Mineral Oil, Synthetic Oil and Others. By Refrigerant Type: Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), Hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), Ammonia, HFO, Butane and Iso Butane, Propane and Others By Application: Refrigerator & Freezer, Air conditioners, Automotive AC System, Aftermarket and Others  By Geography:  North America, South America, Europe, APAC, and RoW.

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Key Takeaways

Asia Pacific region is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period.

The key factor driving the growth of the global Refrigerant Oil market is the increasing consumption of frozen and packaged food products.

Refrigerant Oil exhibits high viscosity, low pour point, and is contamination-free due to which the market is expected to grow during the forecast period.

By Type of Oil - Segment Analysis

Synthetic Oil segment held a significant share in Refrigerant Oil market in 2023. This dominance is attributed to its high performance in extreme conditions, superior viscosity index, high shear stability, and enhanced chemical resistance in comparison to mineral oil. Additionally, synthetic oil lasts longer and is compatible with low GWP and modern refrigerants such as NH3, HFO, and CO2. The growth is attributed to the increasing demand for POE and PGA in ammonia and CO2 refrigeration systems. On the other hand, the mineral oil offers more benefits over the synthetic oil, which leads to its use as a thermal fluid in mechanical and industrial applications.

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By Application - Segment Analysis

Building Refrigerator & Freezer segment held a significant share in Refrigerant Oil market in 2023 growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to the growing demand for perishable food products due to the changing lifestyle of people in developed and developing regions and growth in trade of food products. The rising sales of refrigerators & freezers are anticipated to drive the growth of the market over the forecast period. Compressor Oil is designed to provide long service life in most compressor applications. Moreover, air conditioners segment is expected to have a significant growth during the forecast period due to installation of air conditioners in vehicles, residences, centralized systems in offices and in industries. However, consumer electronics companies plan to increase prices of refrigerators, air-conditioners, microwave ovens and washing machines due to higher component prices amid short supplies from coronavirus-hit China.

By Geography - Segment Analysis

Asia Pacific dominated the Refrigerant Oil market with a share of more than 32%, followed by North America and Europe. The increasing population in the region and the rising demand for refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and automobiles in the emerging markets of APAC, such as China and India, are some of the major factors projected to drive the demand for Refrigerant Oil in the region. Furthermore, the improving lifestyle, increasing employment rate, rising disposable income of the people, and mounting foreign investments in various sectors of the economy are some of the other factors that make APAC an attractive market for Refrigerant Oil manufacturers. 

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Drivers – Refrigerant Oil Market

Growing Demand for Environmentally Friendly Oils

Stringent EU Consumer and industry preferences are increasingly inclined towards sustainable and eco-friendly products. This extends to refrigeration systems where there's a growing preference for oils derived from renewable sources or with minimal environmental impact. Manufacturers are responding to this demand by developing Refrigerant Oils derived from bio-based or synthetic sources that offer lower GWP, reduced toxicity, and improved biodegradability. Many industries are incorporating sustainability into their operational strategies. This includes using Refrigerant Oils that align with their sustainability commitments and promote environmentally responsible practices.

Cold chain logistics have sparked an interest in refrigeration equipment and in turn Refrigerant Oil 

Changing food habits coupled with spending capacity have resulted in a number of licensed and franchised stores of limited services restaurants such as McDonald’s and Subway, KFC and local services and is driving demand for frozen and chilled food products. Moreover, storage of medical products (such as vaccines, other medical products, etc.) is expected to increase demand for refrigeration systems. Hence, it is expected to increase installation of refrigeration equipment in warehouses as well as in vehicles for distribution. 

Challenges – Refrigerant Oil Market 

Inadequate Source: Expert Insights & IndustryARC Analysis

Stringent regulations Various government organizations are trying to enforce amendments over the industries to reduce the use of HCFCs and CFCs in refrigeration system until 2030 by A5 countries in order to identify such refrigerants as obsolete. Thus, stringent government regulations are expected to hinder the Refrigerant Oil market. Moreover, ammonia is not compatible with copper, so it cannot be used in any system with copper pipes. Release of ammonia due to excess water within the system freezing, causes broken pipes and equipment.

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Market Landscape

Technology launches, acquisitions, and R&D activities are key strategies adopted by players in the Refrigerant Oil market. in 2023, The major players in the Refrigerant Oil market are Exxon Mobil Corporation, Shell PLC, FUCHS, Idemitsu Kosan Co. Ltd, Petronas International Limited, BP p.l.c., Sinopec Group, Johnson Controls, Japan Sun Oil Company, Ltd., Isel Inc. and Others.

Developments:

In August 2023, The Japanese lubricating oil manufacturer Sun Oil Co. launched a mineral Refrigerant Oil that works with most refrigerants. 

In September 2022, Tata Motors announced the launch of the 5W30 synthetic engine oil, which is specifically intended to enhance the performance of the BS6 diesel engines.

[nmsc-market-pulse]

A Cooler Collaboration: District Cooling Systems with Chillers Market for Sustainable Urban Cooling

Introduction:

In today's urban landscape, efficient and sustainable cooling solutions are paramount. District cooling systems, powered by centralized Chillers Market, offer a compelling alternative to traditional on-site cooling.

This article explores the synergy between district cooling systems and chillers, examining their working principles, benefits, applications, and considerations for implementation.

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Beyond the Rooftop Unit: Understanding District Cooling Systems

District cooling systems provide chilled water for building cooling through a network of underground pipes. Unlike traditional on-site chillers, these systems offer several advantages:

Centralized Cooling Production: A central chiller plant generates chilled water, eliminating the need for individual chillers on each building rooftop.

Economies of Scale: Centralized production allows for larger, more efficient chillers, leading to lower overall energy consumption.

Reduced Building Footprint: Eliminating individual chillers frees up valuable rooftop space in buildings.

Potential for Sustainable Practices: Centralized plants can utilize more sustainable technologies like waste heat recovery or natural refrigerants.

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Beyond the Compressor: The Role of Chillers in District Cooling

Chillers are the heart of a district cooling system:

Cooling Powerhouse: Centralized chillers produce chilled water by removing heat from a refrigerant using a vapor-compression cycle.

Efficiency Matters: The efficiency of chillers significantly impacts the overall energy consumption of the district cooling system.

Technology Choices: District cooling systems can utilize various chiller technologies, including electric chillers, absorption chillers (powered by waste heat), and chillers using natural refrigerants.

Matching Capacity: Chiller capacity in the central plant needs to be carefully designed to meet the peak cooling demand of all connected buildings within the district.

Beyond the City Center: Applications for District Cooling Systems

District cooling systems are well-suited for various urban environments:

Dense Urban Areas: In densely populated areas, district cooling can efficiently cool multiple buildings, reducing the overall environmental impact.

University Campuses: Large campuses with multiple buildings can benefit from the centralized cooling approach of district systems.

Mixed-Use Developments: Combining residential, commercial, and office buildings within a district creates a suitable environment for centralized cooling.

Government and Public Buildings: Consolidated cooling for government buildings and public facilities can be achieved through district systems.

Beyond the Initial Investment: Considerations for District Cooling Systems

While district cooling offers advantages, some considerations need to be addressed:

Initial Investment: Building the infrastructure for a district cooling system requires a significant upfront investment.

Long-Term Commitment: Buildings connecting to a district cooling system are locked into the system for the long term.

Reliability and Maintenance: The reliability of the central chiller plant and distribution network is critical for building cooling.

Cost Allocation: A fair and transparent system for allocating cooling costs to individual buildings within the district is necessary.

Building a Sustainable Future: The Path Forward for District Cooling

District cooling systems hold significant potential for a more sustainable future:

Energy Efficiency: Centralized production can utilize more efficient technologies and economies of scale, leading to lower overall energy consumption.

Reduced Emissions: District cooling systems can adopt renewable energy sources or utilize waste heat for chiller operation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Urban Planning Integration: Integrating district cooling into new urban developments creates a more sustainable and efficient cooling infrastructure.

Policy and Incentives: Government policies and incentives can encourage the development and adoption of district cooling systems.

Conclusion: A Chilling Partnership: District Cooling and Chillers for Sustainable Urban Development

The collaboration between district cooling systems and chillers presents a promising approach to urban cooling. By centralizing cooling production, utilizing efficient technologies, and leveraging economies of scale, district cooling systems offer a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional on-site cooling.

As urban populations grow and the focus on sustainability intensifies, district cooling systems are poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of our cities, ensuring a cooler and more environmentally friendly urban environment.

[aimarketresearch]

Biomedical Refrigerators and Freezers Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth and Competitive Analysis

biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market business report provides a profound overview of product specification, technology, product type and production analysis considering major factors such as revenue, cost, and gross margin. The data and information collected to generate this top-notch market report has been derived from the trusted sources such as company websites, white papers, journals, and mergers etc. biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market report includes basic, secondary and advanced information related to the global status, recent trends, market size, sales volume, market share, growth, future trends analysis and segment.

With the complete understanding of business environment that is best suitable for the requirements of the client, biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market business report has been generated. Businesses can also achieve insights into profit growth and sustainability programs with this market report. Market drivers and market restraints explained in this report gives idea about the rise or fall in the consumer demand for the particular product depending on several factors. This market document contains all the company profiles of the major players and brands. Each of the topics is properly elaborated with the in-depth research and analysis for generating an absolute biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market survey report.

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Data Bridge Market Research analyses the growth in the biomedical refrigerators and freezers market in the forecast period 2022-2029. The expected CAGR of biomedical refrigerators and freezers market is tend to be around 9.01% in the mentioned forecast period. The market value was found to be USD 3.8 billion in 2021, which is expected to reach USD 7.58 billion by 2029. In addition to the market insights such as market value, growth rate, market segments, geographical coverage, market players, and market scenario, the market report curated by the Data Bridge Market Research team also includes in-depth expert analysis, patient epidemiology, pipeline analysis, pricing analysis, and regulatory framework.

Table of Content:

Part 01: Executive Summary

Part 02: Scope of the Report

Part 03: Global biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market Landscape

Part 04: Global biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market Sizing

Part 05: Global biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market Segmentation by Product

Part 06: Five Forces Analysis

Part 07: Customer Landscape

Part 08: Geographic Landscape

Part 09: Decision Framework

Part 10: Drivers and Challenges

Part 11: Market Trends

Part 12: Vendor Landscape

Part 13: Vendor Analysis

biomedical refrigerators and freezers Key Benefits over Global Competitors:

The report provides a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the biomedical refrigerators and freezers Market trends, forecasts, and market size to determine new opportunities.

Porter’s Five Forces analysis highlights the potency of buyers and suppliers to enable stakeholders to make strategic business decisions and determine the level of competition in the industry.

Top impacting factors & major investment pockets are highlighted in the research.

The major countries in each region are analyzed and their revenue contribution is mentioned.

The market player positioning segment provides an understanding of the current position of the market players active in the Personal Care Ingredients

Key players operating in the biomedical refrigerators and freezers market include:

AegisFridge (India)

Azbil Corporation (Japan)

Eppendorf AG (Germany)

FOLLETT PRODUCTS, LLC (US)

Haier Biomedical (China)

Helmer Scientific Inc (US)

Liebherr-International Deutschland GmbH (Germany)

Migali (US)

PHC Holdings Corporation (US)

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (US)

Arctiko (Denmark)

Coldway Technologies (France)

Gram Commercial (Denmark)

Froilabo (France)

LabRepCo (US)

Philips Kirsch GmbH (Germany)

Terumo Corporation (Japan)

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About Data Bridge Market Research:

Data Bridge set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.

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[ragini-14]

Industrial Refrigeration Market Segmented by Product, Top Key Players, Geography Trends, and Forecasts to 2030

Global Industrial Refrigeration Market research report published by Exactitude Constancy reveals the current outlook of the global and key regions from the following perspectives: Key players, countries, product types, and end industries. The report studies the top companies in the global market and divides the market into several parameters. This Industrial Refrigeration Market research report pinpoints the industry's competitive landscape to understand the international competition. This report study explains the expected growth of the global market for the upcoming years from 2024 to 2030. This research report is accumulated based on static and dynamic perspectives on business.

The global industrial refrigeration market is expected to grow at 5.3 % CAGR from 2023 to 2030. It is expected to reach above USD 30.88 billion by 2030 from USD 19.4 billion in 2023.

Browse Complete Summary and Table of Content @ https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/ja/reports/7088/industrial-refrigeration-market/

[soumyafwr]

RFID Blood Refrigerators and Freezers Market Analysis, Share, Size and Forecast 2031

[pravalika]

Refrigerant Oil Market - Forecast (2023 - 2028)

[tbrcresearchreport]

The Business Research Company offers ventilation, heating, air-conditioning, and commercial refrigeration equipment market research report 2023 with industry size, share, segments and market growth

[dhirajmarketresearch]

[trendingreportz]

Refrigerant Oil Market - Forecast(2024 - 2030)

The global refrigerant oil market generated a revenue of $10,113.31 million in 2017 and is expected to rise at a CAGR of 5.7% during 2018-2023. Among the various end users such as automobiles, industrial, commercial and household, automobiles sector generated a revenue of $2226.7 million and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1%. The global refrigerant oil market is set to experience substantial growth due to the increased demand for refrigerant oils in air conditioners and refrigerators. APAC region dominates the refrigerant oil market due to the presence of numerous refrigerant oil providers as well as end users.

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What is Refrigerant Oil?

Refrigerant oil is used to lubricate the compressor that produces cold air. The use of oil reduces friction on metal parts, reducing wear on the compressor and extends the life of the system. Refrigerant oil is specially designed for high-temperature to use in cooling systems, so it is important to use the recommended lubricant for the equipment. For the compressor to operate efficiently and to reduce the wear and tear on the components, cooling and lubrication of the hot metal is necessary. The lubricants used in refrigeration systems are either synthetic or mineral oil. The exact formulation of oil for a specific compressor depends on the size and power requirements of the compressor.

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Market Research and Market Trends of Refrigerant Oil:

The use of environmentally-friendly refrigerant oil, such as highly-refined mineral oil, as an alternative to fossil-fuel oils is being extensively studied. The compressor manufacturers are focusing on deriving refined mineral oil at a lower production cost. The goal of these compressors is to protect the environment by reducing waste oil from heavy fossil fuels. 

When a lubricant is added to a refrigerant, either an enhancement or degradation in heat transfer performance is achieved based on the lubricant’s viscosity, miscibility and concentration. In the recent years, more attention has been given to lubricant and additive chemistries that can enhance heat-transfer and compressor efficiency. Several companies around the world are incorporating different nanoparticles into the refrigerant oil to improve the heat transfer properties.

The current trend involves the use of refrigerant additives that contain an activated polar molecule that have a strong affinity for metal. Such additives will form a thin layer on the metal surfaces in the compressor. This layer will lubricate the moving parts in the compressor which in turn improves the heat transfer and increases the efficiency of the system.

Who are the Major Players in Refrigerant Oil Market?

The companies referred in the market research report are The Lubrizol Corporation, BASF SE, The Dow Chemical Co, Idemitsu Kosan Co Ltd and 10 other companies

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What is our report scope?

The report incorporates in-depth assessment of the competitive landscape, product market sizing, product benchmarking, market trends, product developments, financial analysis, strategic analysis and so on to gauge the impact forces and potential opportunities of the market. Apart from this the report also includes a study of major developments in the market such as product launches, agreements, acquisitions, collaborations, mergers and so on to comprehend the prevailing market dynamics at present and its impact during the forecast period 2018-2023.

All our reports are customizable to your company needs to a certain extent, we do provide 20 free consulting hours along with purchase of each report, and this will allow you to request any additional data to customize the report to your needs.

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Key Takeaways from this Report

Evaluate market potential through analyzing growth rates (CAGR %), Volume (Units) and Value ($M) data given at country level – for product types, end use applications and by different industry verticals.

Understand the different dynamics influencing the market – key driving factors, challenges and hidden opportunities.

Get in-depth insights on your competitor performance – market shares, strategies, financial benchmarking, product benchmarking, SWOT and more.

Analyze the sales and distribution channels across key geographies to improve top-line revenues.

Understand the industry supply chain with a deep-dive on the value augmentation at each step, in order to optimize value and bring efficiencies in your processes. 

Get a quick outlook on the market entropy – M&A’s, deals, partnerships, product launches of all key players for the past 4 years. 

Evaluate the supply-demand gaps, import-export statistics and regulatory landscape for more than top 20 countries globally for the market. 

[kingshovelbug]

im sorry but i need to geek out somewhere and screaming into the void on tumblr is less likely to get me flayed than on twitter, especially if i get terms wrong. plus i can do a read more and yall can click into the tech talk if you want to verse it bombarding your twitter timelines

so idk if i only liked it or if i actually put it in my queue but i saw a post that talked about a few pieces of tech that focus on user repairs and being sustainable (fairphone and frameworks laptop) and after doing some more research into what they have to offer i actually really excited that these products are finely hitting the us market and that people are moving away from the belief that super smooth streamlined glassy = the future. being able to reliably repair and keep what you have alive verse throwing the whole thing away when maybe all you needed to do is add more ram to your current laptop (something that i would do with my laptop to keep using it for a few more years if it wasnt glued shut and i was at risk of cracking the screen) or swap out a fuse.

i know big corporations dont like it but i truly do believe with how much tech we use on a daily basis that the way that we are going to be more environmentally friendly is to move back to tech that we can hang onto for as long as we can and to recycle and then reuse what we cant. like with the frameworks laptop. i saw that they just partnered with coolermaster to create a case specifically so that you can reuse you motherboard, cpu, etc and make a portable workstation. you could dual wield with the laptop you just upgraded if you want to dedicate specific tasks to one or the other. they also specifically mentioned that you could screw it into the back of a monitor and create your own all in one. guys thats cool as shit??? if you had a 3d printer and some time you could even create that yourself

on top of the actual hardware part moving to open source programs when your able. when i update my desktop i plan on running linux. it might have a learning curve compared to windows but in terms of performance??? ive heard that it runs smoother even on older machines, that its more efficient because isnt running stuff in the background that tracks your data and shit. now i understand that not everyone can do that because there are some programs that dont play nice with linux but for my needs at least it does everything i would need it to. and maybe a couple years down the road we do figure out how to run these programs on certain flavors of linux since its open source and people fiddle with it so much. (still looking for alternatives to like word and excel though, i use google docs since its free but i want to move away from them as much as i can too since they laid of their youtube music team (i believe?? it might of been a different branch) for trying to unionize)

if anyone knows of any other smaller companies that actually focus on sustainability and user repairability please let me know. theres certain pieces of tech that i think are now unfortunately behind a software repair paywall, things that used to be just machines and are gaining more bells and whistles like cars and refrigerators if that makes sense. but the more we push for these things to be repairable by us the consumers id hope that would change, or there would at least be options that dont need specific companies to repair them or else they blow up

[mariacallous]

Milton Orr looked across the rolling hills in northeast Tennessee. “I remember when we had over 1,000 dairy farms in this county. Now we have less than 40,” Orr, an agriculture adviser for Greene County, Tennessee, told me with a tinge of sadness.

That was six years ago. Today, only 14 dairy farms remain in Greene County, and there are only 125 dairy farms in all of Tennessee. Across the country, the dairy industry is seeing the same trend: In 1970, more than 648,000 US dairy farms milked cattle. By 2022, only 24,470 dairy farms were in operation.

While the number of dairy farms has fallen, the average herd size—the number of cows per farm—has been rising. Today, more than 60 percent of all milk production occurs on farms with more than 2,500 cows.

This massive consolidation in dairy farming has an impact on rural communities. It also makes it more difficult for consumers to know where their food comes from and how it’s produced.

As a dairy specialist at the University of Tennessee, I’m constantly asked: Why are dairies going out of business? Well, like our friends’ Facebook relationship status, it’s complicated.

The Problem with Pricing

The biggest complication is how dairy farmers are paid for the products they produce.

In 1937, the Federal Milk Marketing Orders, or FMMO, were established under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act. The purpose of these orders was to set a monthly, uniform minimum price for milk based on its end use and to ensure that farmers were paid accurately and in a timely manner.

Farmers were paid based on how the milk they harvested was used, and that’s still how it works today.

Does it become bottled milk? That’s Class 1 price. Yogurt? Class 2 price. Cheddar cheese? Class 3 price. Butter or powdered dry milk? Class 4. Traditionally, Class 1 receives the highest price.

There are 11 FMMOs that divide up the country. The Florida, Southeast, and Appalachian FMMOs focus heavily on Class 1, or bottled, milk. The other FMMOs, such as Upper Midwest and Pacific Northwest, have more manufactured products such as cheese and butter.

For the past several decades, farmers have generally received the minimum price. Improvements in milk quality, milk production, transportation, refrigeration, and processing all led to greater quantities of milk, greater shelf life, and greater access to products across the US. Growing supply reduced competition among processing plants and reduced overall prices.

Along with these improvements in production came increased costs of production, such as cattle feed, farm labor, veterinary care, fuel, and equipment costs.

Researchers at the University of Tennessee in 2022 compared the price received for milk across regions against the primary costs of production: feed and labor. The results show why farms are struggling.

From 2005 to 2020, milk sales income per 100 pounds of milk produced ranged from $11.54 to $29.80, with an average price of $18.57. For that same period, the total costs to produce 100 pounds of milk ranged from $11.27 to $43.88, with an average cost of $25.80.

On average, that meant a single cow that produced 24,000 pounds of milk brought in about $4,457. Yet, it cost $6,192 to produce that milk, meaning a loss for the dairy farmer.

More efficient farms are able to reduce their costs of production by improving cow health, reproductive performance, and feed-to-milk conversion ratios. Larger farms or groups of farmers—cooperatives such as Dairy Farmers of America—may also be able to take advantage of forward contracting on grain and future milk prices. Investments in precision technologies such as robotic milking systems, rotary parlors, and wearable health and reproductive technologies can help reduce labor costs across farms.

Regardless of size, surviving in the dairy industry takes passion, dedication, and careful business management.

Some regions have had greater losses than others, which largely ties back to how farmers are paid, meaning the classes of milk, and the rising costs of production in their area. There are some insurance and hedging programs that can help farmers offset high costs of production or unexpected drops in price. If farmers take advantage of them, data shows they can functions as a safety net, but they don’t fix the underlying problem of costs exceeding income.

Passing the Torch to Future Farmers

Why do some dairy farmers still persist, despite low milk prices and high costs of production?

For many farmers, the answer is because it is a family business and a part of their heritage. Ninety-seven percent of US dairy farms are family owned and operated.

Some have grown large to survive. For many others, transitioning to the next generation is a major hurdle.

The average age of all farmers in the 2022 Census of Agriculture was 58.1. Only 9 percent were considered “young farmers,” age 34 or younger. These trends are also reflected in the dairy world. Yet, only 53 percent of all producers said they were actively engaged in estate or succession planning, meaning they had at least identified a successor.

How to Help Family Dairy Farms Thrive

In theory, buying more dairy would drive up the market value of those products and influence the price producers receive for their milk. Society has actually done that. Dairy consumption has never been higher. But the way people consume dairy has changed.

Americans eat a lot, and I mean a lot, of cheese. We also consume a good amount of ice cream, yogurt, and butter, but not as much milk as we used to.

Does this mean the US should change the way milk is priced? Maybe.

The FMMO is currently undergoing reform, which may help stem the tide of dairy farmers exiting. The reform focuses on being more reflective of modern cows’ ability to produce greater fat and protein amounts; updating the cost support processors receive for cheese, butter, nonfat dry milk, and dried whey; and updating the way Class 1 is valued, among other changes. In theory, these changes would put milk pricing in line with the cost of production across the country.

The US Department of Agriculture is also providing support for four Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives to help dairy farmers find ways to keep their operations going for future generations through grants, research support, and technical assistance.

Another way to boost local dairies is to buy directly from a farmer. Value-added or farmstead dairy operations that make and sell milk and products such as cheese straight to customers have been growing. These operations come with financial risks for the farmer, however. Being responsible for milking, processing, and marketing your milk takes the already big job of milk production and adds two more jobs on top of it. And customers have to be financially able to pay a higher price for the product and be willing to travel to get it.

[phoenixfire-thewizardgoddess]

Concept - Radiation

Old televisions and radio give off radiation, right?

Consider the idea that Vox recognised their dangerous potential after he fell, having heard about some more up to date research in his time. Given that he was from the 'atomic age' where scientists were crafting atom bombs, young boys could do 'science' with their very own kits in the home with actual uranium, fun new gadgets and doodads were being marketed for the home, television was overtaking radio, and many of the television shows were about sci-fi and the stars.

It wasn't an immediate thing, either. He'd been so caught up in having a television for a face, that even the distraction of Alastor's... everything, wasn't enough to snap the media darling and rising overlord out of his own head (hah) long enough to realise what they were doing.

Of course, the two of them together made it worse. Plants wilted quickly, much to the obvious dismay of Alastor who always adored his own little garden, and Vox never knew what to say to console the blood thirsty nightmare... because it wasn't like he'd had much luck around it too. Plants just didn't seem to like him.

And food would just... go off, quickly. The refrigerator wasn't the best, not at first at least... rising overlords had souls but not always money. They had Enough, but, well... they were rommates for a reason. A place where the door had a lock and the toilet didn't try to immolate you on flush, cost a pretty penny... even with the 'Discount because I think you'll eat me otherwise' from the landlord.

Rosie had offered them a place in Cannibal Town, but the pair were too independent to consider it just yet. It felt rather like... ah, like returning to live with a parent. She was a lovely, nightmarish queen... but there was a streak of Mother Knows Best to that overlord a mile wide. She would be kind about it, but... well.

In either case, the food spoiled rapidly. Vox assumed it was normal, because Alastor seemed to think it was, he'd never known different. They'd taken to shopping daily (or at least had a rotating system of thralls do a grocery run each day and delivering the food) which was working. Leftovers sometimes made it to the next day.

And things wore out... quickly. That was annoying. Clothes, furniture, the apartment... it was like living in a world made of cardboard with how flimsy it all seemed. It wasn't immediate, but you noticed things seemed... hmmm.

And occasionally, some of the other apartments had a bit of a turnover. Someone got too sick. Vox and Alastor originally put it down to sick with fear from being in the proximity of Overlords. Really stroked the ego.

But, as time wore on, Vox started to put things together. The longer he and Alastor remained close, the sharper his headaches got, the more frequently the nausea and food avoidance struck, the more prominent Alastor's skeleton became, the harder it was to see without fuzz overtaking their vision. Little things...

And then there was the... well, the glow.

They'd thought it was just a sinner-form thing. Being part tv and part radio always meant the pair were inclined to electrical issues, sometimes they glowed, sometimes their ambient static could short out electronics. Just how things were. The static and manipulation of radiowaves was fun, at least.

But after a while, Vox began to realise things in the apartment started to take on that glow. Rosie pointed it out when she visited once, frowning at it and mentioning that unless they'd specifically imbued it with magic, then no... this wasn't natural.

And that's when he realised the inherent dangers of what they were.

He'd tried to express to Alastor the dangers, and got the anticipated backlash from the Radio Demon, who hated the idea that Vox could be telling the truth. Oh, he was mildly delighted at the idea he could inadvertently murder sinners with enough contact... but the idea that he couldn't control this ability, that it was harming Vox, and Rosie and anyone in contact with them too regularly... that pissed him off.

After a rather lengthy rampage, Alastor settled and slumped at the table. Asking his closest male friend and confidant what the devil they were going to do about it?

And Vox had grinned, "The Devil you say?"

See, there was a very unique and hard to apply for program, through the palace. Or at least, there was... until the last century or so, when there were rumours of issues in royal household. Sinners who fell with forms that were deemed environmentally hazardous enough could request, through the most obscene amount of documentation either man had ever seen in their lives or what came after, to have their forms assessed.

Applicants who were successful went to a panel of designated hellborn, mostly imps and hellhounds underneath a bored goetia or two, who could identify what was wrong with them. The hellborn were also, it must be sadly said, seen as expendable... what with the unpredictability of sinners before you even considered their inherent flaws.

Very few qualified, unless there was something notable. Often applicants would just be sinners infuriated with their forms and wanting something different instead. The sheer volume of those forms glutted the applications office, and therefore it took some time before the Overlords were seen.

In the interim, they tried anything that would make sense. Their combined output was impacting on others over time, the amount individually was negligible, mostly making people ill with exposure and not generally to the point of bleeding eyes, or balding. Well, not that they'd seen. And who hadn't vomited blood once in a while in hell, anyway?

Sinners were hardy things, and could heal over time as needed, even from radiation. Hellborn though, not so lucky.

Alastor found a tailor skilled in the art of runic protections, who was able to weave enchantments into their attire. Magically reinforcing, at the least, his gloves and coat, Vox's sweater and silly little hat. He couldn't get the television to wear gloves to reduce their touch, their accidental potential for harming others.

It wasn't forever, and the material eventually began to degrade as well, but it was something.

Vox was busy looking through any records they could get their hands on, scientific or magical to identify if there was another way, another option. They tried different spells and... nothing.

The television came up with a rather drastic solution. Alastor was wildly against it, pointing out that it was extremely dangerous and he wouldn't allow Vox to even try. Who would help him if Alastor refused?

But the palace was taking so long. Even when they finally had a review by the panel, all that was offered was some ridiculous little doodads and enchantments. Alastor received a staff to channel his ambient radiation through, though it would need to purge at least once per year... and Vox? He was given antennae, little red balls atop them, which seemed to channel the radiation away and across the airwaves in his broadcasts. Something about occasional oversaturated hues.

Alastor did point out that things were going well now. They had a way to, how did they say it, discharge the problem? Release it into the realm without the potential of murdering everyone by accident?

It also allowed for laser-focused precision in releasing the collated radiation, which made Alastor's Overlord hunting far more fun!

Vox... didn't feel it was enough. Vox was never satisfied,though, Alastor would counter jovially.

But it was true. Not when food soured slower than before, but still didn't make it more than three days without liquifying into putrid mush. Not when he worried about every handshake, every clap on the back to a colleague he even vaguely cared about, wondering if it was dooming them to agony later.

Vox worried about Alastor, and how the man still had days he refused to eat when his bones were too sharp, and yet he couldn't stop throwing up. Vox worried for himself on the days he woke up so dizzy and weak he couldn't move, his bones aching like fractured porcelain grinding against its own shards, and skin too tight to breathe.

How ridiculous to be trapped this way?

All powerful, and yet, a prisoner in his own body for days on end? Ridiculous!

He couldn't do it anymore. Where Alastor revelled in this chaos, focused on the weaponisation of their shared curse; Vox saw it as a tether, holding him down. How could he be a Sovereign if he couldn't ensure that the next day wouldn't be trapped in bed with a cool cloth over his throbbing eyes? How could he defend himself and others against threats if he was burning alive from the inside out?

How can he sit around watching passively as Alastor had days he couldn't even flick an ear, nerves alight in hypersensitive agony, until his sinner healing abilities kicked in? Not even freshly slaughtered sinner meat helping the other rouse from behind static-filled eyeballs. It was breaking Vox's heart to see the other like this, to know it was his fault...

Even if he didn't have these unfortunate feelings, even if he hadn't started to fall for the idiot and they were only friends, Vox knew this couldn't continue. He tried to raise the idea with Alastor again, and the other slammed it down. Furious.

"There's nothing wrong with us, we're making it work!" Alastor snarled, slamming a fist on the table. "You are perfect, and I am perfectly content. There is only risk in seeking this course of action and I will not let you break yourself for a What If, for a Maybe with little returns!"

"Pfft, you said the same thing about going into business with Val. Just... trust me!" Vox wheedles, trying hard not to get furious, because the sentiment hidden under the anger was en-deer-ing in the least. "Al, c'mon, please understand that if it works for me... it could for you too. We don't have to be like this... shackled by our own forms, and I won't have to watch you suffer because of ME! Of what I AM!"

The composure began to break, as the tears rolled down his blocky screen. "Please, let me try... you know I have everything worked out. The machines I built, that you've enchanted, the ones for emergency repairs... I might have reprogrammed them for this. And... and if it doesn't work, then I die and regnerate back to this. It'll-... it'll be fine."

"And you want me to watch you suffer? To watch you mutilate yourself for a Potential Future?" Alastor's voice drops the radiotone so swiftly it feels like a slap across the face, and sends Vox reeling.

"What? No, no I'll be offline, I can turn off my pain sensors, you know that. It would only look a bit freaky, but you don't have to watch, promise!" he capitulates, seeing where the worry is coming from. His heart breaks as he sees Alastor stiffen, straightening until he was a hair's breadth from transforming into something gargantuan. Looming over him as they locked eyes. A hand touched his casing, so gently.

"Vox... Picture Box... you are not broken, we are not broken. There's nothing to fix. I accept you as you are in all forms, and I would hope you felt the same." Alastor shudders, and Vox can see the tell-tale migraine starting for the other... the ambient noise is almost non-existent right now. "Do not go through with this... I will destroy the machine if I must, but I will not allow you to mutilate yourself for the sake of hypothetical others. We may be flawed, but it balances out between us, does it not??"

He sighs. "Al..."

Alastor snarls, the fingers turning to claws as they grabbed his face. "Then you leave me no choice, picture box... I will not let you break yourself for the sake of the faceless public. Even if I have to put you through the floor to gain access to the machine I w-..."

Vox feels a twinge as he exerts his power, feeling Alastor fight his hypnotic gaze, and hating that he had to resort to forcing the compulsion on the other. "Stop. It's okay... I need you to believe me that it's going to be okay, I planned it all out. Once I fix me, you'll see what I mean, you'll-... I hope you will... trust me to help you, then. Please don't be angry with me. Just... just go to sleep and when you wake up things will be better, okay?"

He catches the crumpling form as it sags, curling it close and inhaling through his vents that familiar scent of their shared soap, the spice from lunch, a hint of something woodlike, and an undercurrent of blood - of violence and viscera. He encodes it, deep in his memory core... alongside the memory of Alastor's height, the weight of him in his arms, and the slack, near-peaceful expression the other Overlord had as he was laid on the couch.

"It'll be okay Al. I'm going to fix this, because I can't keep killing you slowly... and I hope you don't want to see me die like that in return."

Vox turned to the small alcove room with the arranged machinery, clenching his fists in determination even as he slowly turned off nervous system sensors all over his body. "Okay... let's take a step into the future."

He didn't look back.

-------------

Alastor had been furious upon awakening to... a new Vox. A radiation-neutral Vox, but one so vastly different to HIS picture box, it seemed like... a stranger. No matter how Vox explained that the proceedure hadn't altered anything, that he was still in there, there was something about him, about his frequency, that rubbed Alastor wrong.

The sleek new screen was jarring to look at, for one. Vox had reassured that the optics had finally allowed him to see in colour, and immediately began to compare Alastor's colourful features to various types of flora and fauna. Which the Radio Demon allowed simply because he, too, had some limitations based on his hellform and sight, which he would likely experience joy about removing.

Ah, to see the colour red as intended, just once more...

It was the too familiar hand on his nape, the brush of confident fingers through his hair and the way Vox looked like he wanted to devour Alastor... that set the deer's internal alarms off. His picture box had had a crush, yes, but it had been fading back into friendship. This was... this was blatant, possessive, like Vox didn't recall boundaries.

And his static, the ambient radiowaves bounced back wrong.

Maybe this was who he'd always been underneath his limitations? Maybe something had happened in that awful little self-mutilation operation that had changed Vox? Had his sensors flickered back on when things had been half-open casing? Had he called for Alastor only to get silence in his pain? No, no Vox reassured that hadn't happened.

But... it was as if Alastor had woken to a new and bizarre world. This was, and was not, his Vox. For one, the other would never have had Alastor's head in his lap, stroking his ears as he woke, without express permission. And most importantly, would not have tried to practically climb into his lap like this... not without expecting to be shoved off.

It was only as Vox struck the floor that Alastor realised one eye was large, swirling, aiming right at him. His heart thundered in his throat, and the deer felt a betrayed, nauseous, fury scalding the back of his throat.

"You DARE?"

"Hey, hey I know change freaks you out I thought if I could just... help you see it was okay, take away that fear you have, about losing control. Because it's just me, okay? Just your Vox. And I'm trying to help."

But the static caressing his own was all wrong. Everything was all wrong... and the panic response set in.

Cables tried to pin him down, but Alastor dissolved into shadows, too full of conflicting emotions to even consider Fight. Manifesting back into his old radio tower to collapse to his knees in a confusing soup of fear and disgust and grief and rage and-... and-... well, And.

How could Vox do this to himself?

How could he assume Alastor was broken? how could he try to-... try to-... to force him like that?

What would become of Alastor if he also underwent whatever machinations Vox had in mind? No. No he could manage this alone.

He had before Vox, and he could after Vox.

----------------------------

Alastor managed.

His radiation, especially as a singular overlord, was only the smallest dose now his staff was helping... but even then, over time, it could have detrimental effects. It could weary even the staunch healing capacity of a sinner.

Alastor continued to refuse territory out of concern for his thralls. He knew it was ridiculous... why, he had a few on chains to keep them from doing anything Untoward given their sins in life, perhaps he should gather them up into an apartment and live there to keep them too unwell to do anything. Take advantage of his inherent curse.

Really, how no one else guessed at his little... issue, was laughable. His chains were a radioactive GREEN after all. He looked like the survivor of a rather nasty dose of radiation... or possibly a rather harsh modelling coach, he mused, after seeing some of the poor sinners under one Miss Velvette.

Nothing lived long about him.

He'd even started to pick out the distinctive click of a geiger counter in his static, and it always made him think of that blasted Poe story about the tell-tale heart.

Well, it could be said that no one had the chance to put the pieces together except perhaps dear Rosie. She, it must be said, was very invested in the whole drama... and seeing if he'd ever agree to be roommates with Susan.

Alastor, despite loving the idea of finally taking the old wench out, couldn't imagine having to LIVE with her ornery nonsense for more than five minutes before he eviscerated her. Rosie always made a show of pouting at the response, and sighing that perhaps they'd be lucky and an angel would kill her next extermination, before wheeling off into the latest gossip.

Alastor flitted between locations, never remaining anywhere too long. He lived with the constant concern of Vox, who had run off with that damned Moth to make VoxTech something they'd never intended, telling all of hell about Alastor's little... issue.

In fact, every encounter since had been a vicious, bloody nightmare... but each and every time, he felt Vox try to hypnotise him. The offer to join the Vees is always there, like some magnanimously bestowed favour... and it rankles the deer no end.

Vox seems to be losing patience with the other overlord with every rejection of his silly request. However, what did he expect?

If the change of head didn't make Vox seem unrecognisable, then this new... personality or whatever it was Vox had, certainly did. Once more, the picture box had changed into something that aligned with Valentino's brand. And it twanged at his own heart, making Alastor wonder if the only reason he and Vox had worked together was that the other had molded himself into a role that matched the Radio Demon.

He had liked that their individual personalities had matched, like a slightly bizarre teaset from an op shop. To imagine Vox had falsified it, even unconsciously, was... revolting, but in a way that hurt Alastor to think about. Like a stomach ache.

Vox was never given the chance to try is hand at nabbing the Radio Demon. Fights were dealt with, with minimal eye contact now.

Still, the wilder Alastor's emotions got, the worse he radiation got. It spiked at inconvenient times, these days... and the harder he attempted to hide the mess, the more stress he put on himself to fix the matter, and wouldn't you believe it? But it just so happened that that tended to exascerbate the issue. What a nasty little cycle!

At least little Niffty seemed immune.... or to enjoy the slight stinging sensation that came with prolonged contact. He was never quite sure. Husker, the dear sullen bastard, often complained about feeling ill whenever Alastor was around... claimed he was Bad Luck and it followed him.

And then, there was salvation. Something about his application had triggered interest from above... and the Queen, personally, answered his request for aide through appearing in his Radio Tower one day. Thankfully they were just moving into an hour long music section because his startled bleat-swear noise might have broken glasses all over hell for the pitch if his microphone had been live.

-----revision of story in progress-----

He never stays anywhere too long. Always flitting about, except at the hotel, but the bayou can absorb some of the radiant magic and radiation over time. If it gets too toxic, alastor purges it and reverts the whole wetland to original formats.

And then there was Lillith, who saw potential and the chance to hold a means of broadcasting herself across the rings, in her grasp.

She offered mystical support to contain his issue, to manage the degredation. She would not ask him to stop using it as a weapon of last resort, when he took out overlords. Allowing his radiation to concentrate and emanate.

Disintegrating his defeated enemies into atoms that he drew inside his mangled core. Their screams ringing through hell.

She offered mystical support and knowledge... if only he would trust her fully, allow her ownerahip of his soul. Lillith seemed so sincere, her words overrode his matural scepticism and wariness in a way that to this day alastor couldnt really explain.

He likes to think she used her song. It was equally likely that perhaps desperation to not always be alone drove him to agree.

He never realised she could fulfil her promise and also fund a way to make him far worse than before. To push it until his core held the potential for detonation... if she willed it.

Alastor didnt think she would risk her daughter like that but lillith had laughed. Charlotte could live through a blast, hell wouldnt.

When adam hit him, he thought this would be the moment of vaporisation especially with his staff gone. He fled, hoping to avoid discovery by opportunistic sinners or anyone he may fractionally care about the welfare of, less durable than others.

Husker might be the best bet, his Luck and the protective sigils on his cufflinks would keep him safe long enough. As needed.

But no. Lucifer finds him, how revolting!

Charlotte sent the man whose face is immediately hardened by the discovery. Even moreso after he bats aside what paltry resistence alastor can muster and laid hands on the wound.

Crimson eyes flick up coldly.

He asks why Lillith had made him a living weapon. Alastor has no answer. The king mitigates what he can but refuses a deal gor secrecy.

He tells Charlotte and tries to force alastorfrom the property. It is fair... but lilliths deal compels him to remain.

Chatlotte, bless her heart, tries to find a happy medium in the same vein of dangerous optimism that led.to her confronting Valentino.

She goes to Vox. He is only too pleased to help, he had a plan and the tech to accomplish it.

Charlotte is a terrible.liar, but Lucifer is easily able to capture and sedate the healing overlord despite his.protests. Lillith yanking his chain the whole time to force an explosion.

The person who wakes is not quite himsrlf. His mind is different, his body altered. No longer radioactive but also not... himself.

He knows Vox has tampered with his mind when he was out because his mouth moves without his say so. His body allows vox closer than it should, and twines their signals effortlessly.

He doesnt know time anymore but the pain is gone. At some point he dropped from the hotel and joined the vees. When?

His collar yanks at him every moment he is away from prying eyes, but alastor can do nothing about it.

The one time he recalls seeing Charlotte after, he knows her entreaties to come home were met with silence. Vox has been building up to a deal... wanting it official. Wanting Him.

Salvation is far away. If only lillith could wummon him and purge whatever this was. If only the little king wasnt so hellbent on their rivalry, he might be a source of support.

But no, one evening as he laid quietly and stared at the ceiling of his tooblue room, unable to sleep and yet he could do nothing else as hed been sent to rest...

Someone slipped into his room. Alastor wanted to stiffen, having long since prepared himself for the day voxs restraint snapped and he qas the centre of the picture box's more amorous attentions. Thr activity could be pleasant with the right person but, he had never felt the pull of it. The need as others did.

He knew it was a matter of time.

But no, a battered looking silhouette arrived hissing into their phone. The horrified look on Angels face as he stared at Alastor was sickening, the pity cloying in the air.

He wanted to scream.

Angel props him upright, getting no resistence and yet no help. The atarlet swears, tries goading the other into rwaction, but Vox never gave Alastor any leeway in the command. Fuck this was humiliating.

A shimmering portal appears beside the pair and Angel carries Alastor through, bemoaning how heavy he was for a twig. At least, alastor hopes he said twig.

Charlie is in tears, sobbing apologies at him desperately as Angel puts him on a bed. Was this his room in the new hotel? Why had they bothered?

Angel mentions the lack of response, and shudders. The king, ah damn it all Lucifer is here, moves to the spider first to heal whatever is making the other wheeze so dreadfully.

Then he comes for Alastor, with a sharp jab at how they didnt really need to fix anything did they? Not when bambi had learned to shut up and do what hes told now?

All alastor can manage is a heated glare, venemous and trying to throw the hypocrisy of such a sentiment back at the king. Did the angel do what he was told or rebel, hmmm?

Lucifer apologies.when Charlie sobs harder and admonishes him.

He puts his hand to Alastor's brow and then everything falls away. Likely they might need to carve components out... hes been braves for it. What favour would he owe them for this alleged kindness?

When he wakens, the very reality of being able.to move his fingers of his own volition was slmost enough to make him weep for joy. He did t of course, big bad scary overlord image and all.

Ruined immediately as Charlotte and Niffty dogpile him.

He is reverted as best one can and Lucifer reversed some of Lilliths tinkering. Hed then carefully changed some of the enwrgy signatures to void his body of radiation. Something about clean fusion thst didnt make sense, but it meant he wouldnt kill those around him if exposed for more than a day.

Cautiously, he touched a flower in a vase by the bed... and it remained hale. Ah, delightful!

Feeling much better, he asked after the saviour of the hour... and immediately shadowed back to vee tower in search of the recalled starlet.

What followed was brutal, bloody and satisfying. The entertainment district was in ruins and what little remaine d of the overlords qould regenerate on his chains.

Primarily out of confusion, alastor fres vals souls. He had no idea what to do with them anyway... and releases Angel. Deftly avoiding a thankyou kiss by summoning husker in front of him in time.

Why, this had been quite a strange day.

He still needed to speak with Charlotte and the King about their role in his enforced captivity... but, that could wait a moment.

For now, he contented himself in watching the last of vee tower collapses into burning rubble as soft jazz filled the air.

---

Etc