#Residential Energy Storage

[ensmartpower]

Empower Your Home: EnSmart Power's Residential Energy Storage Solutions

EnSmart Power offers cutting-edge residential energy storage systems, revolutionizing how you manage electricity at home. Store excess energy generated from renewable sources or during off-peak hours and use it when needed, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering utility bills.

[powerfar]

Residential Energy Storage Is A New Global Investment Option

As the global population grows and economies develop, energy demand continues to increase. However, fossil energy reserves are gradually decreasing, causing energy prices to rise. The global energy supply is insufficient and energy security issues are becoming increasingly prominent. In order to solve the problem of electricity consumption, more and more families choose to install residential energy storage systems. This is an energy storage system capable of charging from the grid or solar photovoltaic panels during off-peak periods. It then provides power to household appliances during grid peaks or outages.

Residential energy storage power supply

1. Able to smooth the grid load.

Reduce the pressure on the power grid and improve the stability and reliability of the power grid.

2. Ability to take advantage of time-of-use electricity prices.

Charging and storage when electricity prices are low, and providing power to residences when electricity prices are high.

3. Ability to respond to power grid emergencies.

Ensure uninterrupted household power consumption and avoid data loss, equipment damage, and life inconvenience.

4. It can improve the autonomy and flexibility of household electricity consumption.

You can adjust the power mode and power consumption at any time according to your own needs and preferences.

Household energy storage power supplies can not only store electricity from the grid, but also from solar photovoltaic panels. Among them, solar energy is the most common and convenient renewable energy source. As long as there is sunlight, the energy storage system can convert solar energy into electricity through photovoltaic panels. Finally, the inverter converts the DC power into AC power and supplies the residential energy storage power supply for charging.

Residential energy storage paired with solar photovoltaic panel charging

1. Be able to make full use of solar energy, a clean, pollution-free and unlimited energy source. Reduce dependence on fossil energy, reduce carbon emissions, and protect the environment.

2. Able to charge during the day and discharge at night to achieve day and night balance. Improve energy efficiency and reduce energy waste.

3. It can continue to provide power to households even if the power grid is outage when there is sunlight. Increase the safety and stability of household electricity.

4. Automatically adjust the charge and discharge mode of energy storage based on solar power generation and household electricity consumption. Realize intelligent management and save manpower and time.

To sum up, residential energy storage power supply is a system that can provide electricity security for households. It not only saves electricity costs, but also promotes the development of renewable energy and reduces environmental pollution.

Now, more and more families are choosing to use household energy storage power supplies with light charging functions. Especially those households with large electricity consumption and large residential areas. Paired with photovoltaic panels for greater energy self-sufficiency. Achieve lower electricity bills, more stable power supply quality, and a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

[electronalytics]

Lithium-ion Battery Pack Market Promising Growth and by Platform Type, Technology and End User Industry Statistics, Scope, Demand by 2032

The lithium-ion battery pack market has experienced significant growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding in the coming years. Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in various applications, including consumer electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems, and industrial applications.

The lithium ion battery market size is projected to surpass around USD 307.8 billion by 2032 and it is poised to reach at a CAGR of 18.3% to forecast period.

Several factors have contributed to the growth of the lithium-ion battery pack market:

Increasing demand for electric vehicles: The rise in environmental concerns and the push for sustainable transportation solutions have driven the demand for electric vehicles. Lithium-ion batteries are the preferred choice for EV manufacturers due to their high energy density, longer life cycle, and faster charging capabilities.

Growing renewable energy installations: With the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, the need for energy storage systems has also risen. Lithium-ion battery packs are used to store excess energy generated by renewable sources for later use, improving grid stability and enabling better integration of intermittent power sources.

Advancements in technology: Ongoing research and development efforts have led to advancements in lithium-ion battery technology, including improvements in energy density, safety, and cost reduction. These advancements have made lithium-ion batteries more reliable and affordable, driving their adoption across various industries.

Portable electronics and consumer devices: Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in portable electronics such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and wearables. The increasing demand for these devices has contributed to the growth of the lithium-ion battery pack market.

Government initiatives and incentives: Many governments worldwide are implementing favorable policies and providing incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. These initiatives have created a supportive environment for the growth of the lithium-ion battery pack market.

Here are the key points regarding the lithium-ion battery pack market:

Market Growth: The lithium-ion battery pack market has been experiencing robust growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding at a significant rate.

Application Diversity: Lithium-ion battery packs are used in a wide range of applications, including electric vehicles, energy storage systems, consumer electronics, and industrial applications. This diversification of applications has contributed to the market's growth.

Electric Vehicles (EVs): The increasing adoption of electric vehicles is a major driving force behind the lithium-ion battery pack market. These batteries provide the high energy density, longer lifespan, and fast charging capabilities required for EVs.

Energy Storage Systems: The demand for energy storage systems, particularly for renewable energy integration and grid stabilization, has boosted the lithium-ion battery pack market. These systems store excess energy from renewable sources and discharge it during peak demand periods.

Technological Advancements: Ongoing research and development efforts have led to technological advancements in lithium-ion batteries. This includes improvements in energy density, safety features, and cost reduction, making them more attractive for various applications.

Cost Reduction: The cost of lithium-ion battery packs has been decreasing over the years due to economies of scale, technological advancements, and manufacturing efficiency. This cost reduction has made them more accessible and affordable for various applications.

Overall, the lithium-ion battery pack market is driven by the growth in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, portable electronics, and supportive government policies. Technological advancements and cost reductions will continue to fuel market expansion in the future.

Here are five key points outlining the demand for lithium-ion battery packs in the market:

Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption: The increasing adoption of electric vehicles is driving the demand for lithium-ion battery packs. As governments and consumers prioritize sustainability and cleaner transportation, the demand for EVs and their associated lithium-ion battery packs is growing.

Energy Storage Solutions: The demand for energy storage systems, including grid-scale storage and residential energy storage, is fueling the demand for lithium-ion battery packs. These systems help integrate renewable energy sources, stabilize the grid, and provide backup power during outages.

Portable Electronics: The popularity of portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearable devices is driving the demand for compact and lightweight lithium-ion battery packs. Consumers seek longer battery life and faster charging capabilities for their portable devices.

Industrial Applications: Lithium-ion battery packs are in demand for various industrial applications, including aerospace, defense, medical devices, robotics, and electric tools. These industries rely on reliable and high-performance power solutions, leading to increased adoption of lithium-ion battery packs.

Government Policies and Incentives: Government policies and incentives that promote the adoption of electric vehicles, renewable energy storage systems, and clean energy technologies contribute to the demand for lithium-ion battery packs. These policies create a supportive market environment and drive market growth.

We recommend referring our Stringent datalytics firm, industry publications, and websites that specialize in providing market reports. These sources often offer comprehensive analysis, market trends, growth forecasts, competitive landscape, and other valuable insights into this market.

By visiting our website or contacting us directly, you can explore the availability of specific reports related to this market. These reports often require a purchase or subscription, but we provide comprehensive and in-depth information that can be valuable for businesses, investors, and individuals interested in this market.

“Remember to look for recent reports to ensure you have the most current and relevant information.”

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Market Segmentations:

Global Lithium-ion Battery Pack Market: By Company • Panasonic Corporation • Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. • LG Chem Power, Inc. • Toshiba Corporation • Hitachi Chemical Co. Ltd • Automotive Energy Supply Corporation • GS Yuasa International Ltd • Johnson Controls, Inc. • Shenzhen BAK Battery Co., Ltd. • Future Hi-Tech Batteries Limited • BYD Co. Ltd. • Tianjin Lishen Battery Co. Ltd. • Amperex Technology Ltd. • Hunan Shanshan Toda Advanced Materials Co. Ltd. • Pulead Technology Industry Co., Ltd. Global Lithium-ion Battery Pack Market: By Type • Series Battery Pack • Parallel Battery Pack Global Lithium-ion Battery Pack Market: By Application • Consumer Electronics • Automotive • Medical • Grid Energy and Industrial Global Lithium-ion Battery Pack Market: Regional Analysis All the regional segmentation has been studied based on recent and future trends, and the market is forecasted throughout the prediction period. The countries covered in the regional analysis of the Global Lithium-ion Battery Pack market report are U.S., Canada, and Mexico in North America, Germany, France, U.K., Russia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and Rest of Europe in Europe, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific (APAC) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC), Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA) as a part of Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Argentina, Brazil, and Rest of South America as part of South America.

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Reasons to Purchase Lithium-ion Battery Pack Market Report:

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• To comprehend consumer behaviour: these research studies can offer insightful information about customer behaviour, including preferences, spending patterns, and demographics.

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In general, market research studies offer companies and organisations useful data that can aid in making decisions and maintaining competitiveness in their industry. They can offer a strong basis for decision-making, strategy formulation, and company planning.

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[researchinenergyandpower]

Residential Energy Storage Market size is projected to grow from USD 719 million in 2022 to USD 1,828 million by 2027, at a CAGR of 20.5% according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™. Declining costs of lithium-ion batteries and high investment by the government is supporting the market for the growth.

[medicaldevicesindustrynews]

Residential Energy Storage Market Will Reach USD 4,240.3 Million by 2030

The residential energy storage market is projected to reach a value of USD 4,240.3 million by the year 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.9%. In the past few years, the on-grid category held the larger revenue share, and the category is also projected to dominate the market in the future as well. With on-grid systems, the extra power produced can be transported to the utility…

[rechargeablepowerenergy]

Residential Energy Storage System Louisiana | Rpe-na.com

Secure reliable energy for your home with Rpe-na.com Residential Energy Storage System in Louisiana. Our innovative solutions provide the highest quality and most reliable energy storage systems to help you stay safe and secure.

Residential Energy Storage System Louisiana

[solarpowerinstallationperth]

NEW SOLAR POWER TECHNOLOGIES & INNOVATIONS TO WATCH OUT FOR!

The future of renewable energy is solar power. More sooner than later solar power will be the highest used energy resource in the world and will be embraced by all developed and developing Nations. According to sources, solar energy could increase by 6500 percent in the next 30 years.

Solar energy production methods are always evolving, as we find new ways to maximize the efficiency of existing solar panels, experts are also on the lookout for new solar technologies to incorporate into our lives. Here are the top 5 solar technologies you should watch out for!

10.6 Kw Solar System Off Grid Solar Sysytem Perth 13.2 Kw Solar System Solar Panel Installers Perth 6.6kw Solar System Perth

Read more: https://tanwayengineering.com.au/new-solar-power-technologies-innovations-to-watch-out-for/

[ussunsolar]

Website: https://ussunsolar.com/

Address: 2531 N Patterson Ave, Springfield, MO 65803

Phone: +1 888-545-6790

We supply solar energy by designing and installing solar panel systems for your house or company. Our aim as the #1 home solar business in Missouri is to make getting solar simple and cheap so you can start saving money on your power bill as soon as possible. Sun Solar's solar panel installers are here to guarantee that you end up with a solar energy system that accomplishes what you need it to do, from roof and ground mount to canopy and carport solar installations.While Sun Solar was founded in 2012, founder Caleb Arthur has always had a business mentality. He discovered a new love in solar energy after suffering a career-ending injury while working as a law enforcement officer. After constructing his own ground mount to save money, he recognized a chance to combine his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for solar energy. He would install solar systems by himself during the day and sell systems by knocking on houses at night. Several trade journals have called the firm, which began as a one-man operation, one of the top solar energy enterprises in Missouri.Sun Solar distinguishes itself from other solar firms by focusing on energy efficiency in addition to solar electricity. Our "reduce before you generate" principle allows our clients to save money while also helping the environment. In fact, our Smart Energy Solutions section is fully dedicated to inspecting homes and businesses for energy saving improvements. Our objective is to help our clients minimize both their energy costs and environmental harm to our world from the commencement of an installation to the end of the lifecycle of a solar system.Without the efforts of our completely certified and professionally experienced solar professionals, providing electricity would be impossible. Meet the crew behind the scenes striving to provide solar energy to every area of the region.

[certifiedsolar]

Getting Residential Solar Panels in Brisbane

If you're considering getting residential solar panels in Brisbane, there are a number of companies that can provide you with the services you need. Some of these companies include Goodhew Solar Renewables, which is certified by the Clean Energy Council and a Gold Master Electrician. Another good option is Keen 2B Green, which is based in south-east Queensland. Both these companies offer a full range of solar products, including panels, batteries and inverters.

Springers Solar

Springers Solar is a family-owned business specializing in solar and electrical products. They have been in business for over 15 years and have grown to become a trusted name in the solar industry. They operate two retail locations and have the expertise to design and install a solar energy system that will suit your needs.

Springers Solar offers a full range of solar products and services and offers installations for homes of any size and configuration. They also offer electrical solutions for boaters and travellers. They don't offer pre-packaged solar systems, but instead install fully custom-made grid-connected solar systems. They use products from top-tier manufacturers and offer generous warranties.

The Springers Solar team designed and installed a 24.4 kW solar system and 20 kWh battery for a designer home in East Albury, NSW. The team chose premium products and built a dedicated battery and inverter room. The design ensured the home would become self-sufficient while maintaining the aesthetics of the property.

Bradford Energy

Bradford Energy is a local solar company that sells residential solar Brisbane and installs monitoring systems across Australia. They provide friendly service and knowledgeable staff. If you have any questions, they are happy to help. They also offer SunPower residential solar systems and home battery systems that allow you to sell your excess electricity back to the municipal power grid. Their solar panels and inverters come with a 10 year warranty.

As one of Australia's first solar installers, Bradford Energy has a reputation for quality and reliability. They're a founder signatory of the CEC Code of Conduct, and their solar panels are CEC and Tesla-certified. They have expert installers and use the latest technology to ensure you're receiving the best solar service.

Certified Solar specializes in providing solar energy and energy storage system installations for commercial and residential projects. We transform our clients’ energy needs by helping them drastically reduce and eliminate their electricity bills, aiming for the maximum return on each investment.

[marketreportsdiscovery]

A Solar photovoltaic system, also known as PV system or solar power system, is a system designed to provide usable solar power by means of photovoltaics (PV).Based on the Residential Solar Energy Storage market development status, competitive landscape and development model in different regions of the world, this report is dedicated to providing niche markets, potential risks and comprehensive competitive strategy analysis in different fields

[mariacallous]

Russia’s renewed and much broader assault on Ukraine’s energy sector this spring, which has now destroyed roughly half of the country’s electricity generation capacity, represents an explosive blow to Kyiv’s resilience, civilian morale, and industrial production. What’s worse, the ongoing Russian attacks on the vulnerable energy system offer few prospects of a quick fix that could right the situation before Ukraine enters its third winter of the war.

Since early this year, Russia has set out to finish the job it failed to complete in early 2023—the destruction of Ukraine’s civilian energy sector, especially the power plants that provide light and heat for millions of Ukrainians.

Beginning in March, Russia has specifically targeted Ukraine’s biggest power plants in six massive waves of missile and drone strikes, wiping out about 9 gigawatts of electricity generation, or half the country’s total. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told a reconstruction conference in Berlin on Tuesday that Russian strikes have wiped out 80 percent of Ukraine’s big coal- and gas-fired power plants and one-third of its hydroelectric facilities.

Especially as a result of the last two big attacks, in early May and early June, Ukraine has had to ration electricity for industrial and residential consumers, leaving many with power for only short periods of time; some cities, such as Kharkiv, on the country’s eastern front line are virtually powerless. Russia’s assaults, which the U.K. ambassador to the United Nations has argued are in part an attempt to terrorize civilians, are even a subject for the U.N. Security Council.

As bad as Russia’s attacks have been so far, they could get worse. Russia has already hit some of Ukraine’s natural gas storage facilities—underground bunkers that are used to store fuel both for domestic needs and to backstop European consumption. Further Russian strikes there could expand the pain of energy attacks beyond Ukraine’s borders, right at a time when Europe is scrambling to find a solution for gas transit flows across Ukraine into landlocked Eastern European countries, especially Austria. 

The other big worry is that Russia, after having already destroyed Ukraine’s main sources of baseload power generation, will finally knock its remaining three nuclear power plants off the grid. (Russia has since the early days of the war occupied Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, using it as a shield for its occupation of south-central Ukraine, but the station—Europe’s largest nuclear facility—is in shutdown and not generating power.)

“It sounds mad to attack the nuclear power stations, but Russia could hit the transformers near the nuclear plants. If they did this, the power system will lose its unity, and the country will be split into different energy islands, some with spotty power and some entirely without,” said Andrian Prokip, an energy expert at the Wilson Center’s Kennan Institute in Kyiv.

The undeniable success of this year’s Russian assault is a sharp contrast to its ultimately failed bid in the first winter of the war to freeze Ukraine into submission. Russia has thrown more ordnance at more vulnerable targets this time around, leading to longer-lasting damage that will be far costlier to repair. Only after the big strikes in early May did Ukraine have to start rationing power to residential and industrial consumers. There is concern among big industry, such as the country’s once-vaunted steel and iron industry, that the power outages could kneecap what appeared to be a miraculous wartime recovery of industrial output.

“The difference is that before they mainly targeted transmission lines and substations and now they are destroying power generation plants,” said Slawomir Matuszak, a Ukraine specialist at the Centre for Eastern Studies in Warsaw. “The previous attacks were relatively easy to recover from—a question of days or weeks. But you’re looking at one to two years now for a real rebuild, if that even makes sense, because they can simply be attacked again.”

For Ukraine’s leaders, the renewed Russian strikes pose a threat to the country’s already strained ability to sustain years of unremitting bombing assaults, social and economic disruption, and the increased mobilization of service members. The new campaign has redoubled Ukraine’s desperation to bolster its air defenses in order to protect what’s left of its energy system. 

“Russia’s goal hasn’t changed—they seek to destroy our energy system and use it as a weapon against our citizens,” said Kira Rudik, a Ukrainian parliamentarian who leads the pro-European party Holos and who described the constant disruptions to daily life from the power outages that come atop Russia’s ceaseless use of stand-off weapons to batter civilian residences across the country, including her own. (Zelensky said Tuesday that Russia had launched 135 glide bombs in just the last day.)

“So we are saying, get us the F-16s, get us the Mirages, get us to this luxury point where we can go to bed and know that we will wake up in the morning,” Rudik said, referring to U.S.- and French-made fighter jets. “In Ukraine, we do not have this luxury.”

The increased pace of Russian attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure has also injected fresh urgency into the question of how and when to leverage Moscow’s frozen assets for Ukraine’s assistance. U.S. and European leaders are working on a plan to turn the proceeds of frozen Russian cash into a large loan for Ukraine. For those on the receiving end of Russian attacks, even discussions such as those at the reconstruction conference in Berlin seem too focused on rebuilding Ukraine after the war, rather than reinforcing Ukrainians’ will to resist now.

“We need the money now,” Rudik said. “We have a simple task before us: to survive the summer and get through the winter somehow.”

Some Western countries are heeding Ukraine’s pleas for more air defense, which could help protect both cities and critical infrastructure from Russian attacks, especially after the devastation unleashed in the May and June strikes. Germany is now mulling the dispatch of a fourth Patriot air defense battery, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz urging allies to do more; Italy is preparing to send more air defense systems of its own, while even recalcitrant countries such as Spain are sending more air defense ammunition. Late last week, the Biden administration included more air defense missiles in its latest aid package for Ukraine.

Getting more air defense is a necessary but hardly sufficient condition to begin rebuilding Ukraine’s battered electricity sector. Even at big plants that had an air defense umbrella, such as Kyiv’s critical Trypilla generating station, Ukrainian forces simply ran out of ammo under Russia’s big assault in April; the plant was demolished. But even with better air defenses, energy experts doubt more than 2 to 3 gigawatts of power generation capacity could be rebuilt before winter. That would still leave a big shortfall in power generation, not to mention the ongoing damage to combined heat-and-power plants that provide central heating during Ukraine’s brutal winters.

One short-term, but expensive, fix would be to rely on more electricity imports from Europe. Just before this year’s Russian assault began, Ukraine was actually exporting excess electricity production to Europe—but that was soon reversed. Today, Ukraine can import about 1.7 gigawatts of electricity from Europe and in a pinch can even get more than 2 gigawatts of power. The problem is that imported electricity is more expensive than the subsidized power Ukraine generated at home, exacerbating the country’s already strained finances. 

The other solution, long broached in Ukraine, is to build more small, decentralized power plants, including small gas-fired turbines and renewable sources such as solar and wind power. The push for more renewables has actually increased during the war, and especially in the wake of this spring’s Russian onslaught, as Ukraine seeks new sources of power generation. 

On Tuesday, members of the G-7+ Energy Coordination Group and Ukraine’s government outlined plans to make the electricity sector more resilient, including through more distributed generation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Tuesday at the Berlin conference that Brussels is raising money for urgent power sector repairs as well as a host of small-scale generators. “The aim is to help decentralize the power system and thus increase resilience,” she said.

The biggest advantage of replacing hulking, centralized power plants with a lot of smaller, widely scattered sources of power is that they are a lot harder to blow up with scarce Russian missiles.

“If you have sources of microgeneration, and lots of them, then Russia will not have enough missiles to hit all of them, even if they knew where they were,” Prokip said. “So distributed generation is the right way to go, but the government didn’t take enough steps to do this when it could.”

[researchinenergyandpower]

Residential Energy Storage Market size is projected to grow from USD 719 million in 2022 to USD 1,828 million by 2027, at a CAGR of 20.5% according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™. Declining costs of lithium-ion batteries and high investment by the government is supporting the market for the growth.

[gottawriteanegoortwo]

Acting Attorney: The Props that Shape Our World

When you step out into the world on your own in university, there are many new challenges to face as part of growing up. 

But what do you do when you have a crush on your best friend’s childhood friend? And worse… What do you do when your best friend knows?

Word Count: 2,655

-

University was a strange place. Uncharted territory. Countless unknowns. You found you were constantly bracing yourself for the worst. Someone would pull the rug out from under you and deem you unworthy of attending this course. Someone would come up from behind and stab you in the back while taking what little savings you had. Something, inevitably, would happen, and these safe spaces that you were only starting to get used to would be lost forever. This was all too good to be true.

The betrayal you were expecting. But never from Damien. Never about Mark.

The first meeting had not gone well. Mark had specially travelled to the campus for a visit. His academic hours were far fewer, allowing him more time to make the short journey to where you and Damien were staying. You were left with a sour taste in your mouth because Mark oozed rich kid energy and seemed so out of touch with reality. You could have said the same about Damien, but Damien at least was raised in an overly sheltered, narrow-minded environment. Mark didn't have that same excuse.

You would have left it there, but you couldn't disappoint your friend. It was a begrudging promise that paid off. The second time Mark came over, it was to get out of his own place for a little while. He was stressed, pacing back and forth across the tiny living room with such intensity that you were surprised a path hadn't been worn into the floor by the time you arrived. He had his first performance exam coming up, and the nerves were kicking in. Damien had quietly explained to you that Mark always hated exams, especially auditions, even though he was more than capable. When he stepped out to fetch drinks, you had stepped in to help.

Somehow, you had pried the book from Mark's hands and began to guide him through the soliloquy he was assigned. Damien was right - Mark was confident in the performance, but it was the worry of ruining an opportunity that was eating him alive. When Damien returned with three glasses of water, you suggested that the legal students should pretend to be an audition panel, even going as far as pulling out the heavy winter scarves and messing each other’s hair to complete your "disguises". It had been so ridiculous, but it worked. Mark couldn't stop snickering, and afterward had questioned whether you had missed your calling in the theatrical world.

His grateful smile after it all stuck with you for some time. Just when you thought you could box everything up and move on, Mark would swing by, and you'd have to start all over again. You'd keep this to yourself. You had more important things to focus on. A crush was not one of them!

But Damien. Your best friend, your worst traitor. He grew up in the legal world. He was an ace in reading body language and subtle cues. When you tried to insist you saw Mark simply as a friend, you knew he didn't believe you (truthfully, you didn't believe yourself either). You had never seen him give such a mischievous smirk when he was presented with clear proof of your infatuation from your disastrous attempts to lie. When you pleaded with him not to say anything, Damien had promised you he'd never initiate such a conversation with the man of the hour.

Nothing more was said.

Trusting Damien to leave it in the past was a mistake.

-

Your course was on break for a week, and he decided that the two of you should pay Mark a visit for a chance. It was in the same city, nothing a short bus trip couldn't handle. However, he immediately set off toward the main campus instead of what looked like the residential area.

"Mark mentioned in his last letter to me that he was helping his tutor go through the storage backstage," Damien explained as he pushed one of the doors open. "I'd hazard a guess he's still poking around here. If he had any excuse to spend more time around props when we were children, he'd take it. Otherwise, we follow the, uh…" He trailed off, passing the page he had been carrying to you. Instead of writing out an address and directions, Mark had opted to draw a map.

Ordinarily, a map would be a fantastic aid, a guide through the labyrinth of buildings and streets to help lost travellers find their way. Unfortunately, in his excitement of potentially having visitors, Mark had made what was frankly the worst map you had ever seen:

It was made in a hurry by someone with a heavy colouring pencil and no eraser. The road outline was scribbled over several times to try and hide a mistake. One building had an extra piece attached to it, while another had a corner that was slightly scribbled out. His pencil had even made a small hole in the paper from the pressure. Finally, the rectangle in the top-right had a poorly drawn face with two bold arrows pointing to it. However, Mark had neglected to label a single thing. Without suitable directions (or even any sort of visual landmark), you understood why the university was the safer option.

You handed it back with a grimace and Damien swiftly pocketed it. At least the floorplan in the main entrance hall was easier to navigate than Mark’s diagram of lines and boxes.

-

The auditorium was nothing like the lecture halls you attended. While those were tiered seating with built-in chairs and long tables, this was a single level hall with a large stage at the back. Chairs were set up in neat rows, with a gap in the middle for the main aisle. You did recall Mark talking about lectures happening here. Without even a small table clipped onto the side of the chair, you felt sorry for the students that would try to take notes here. Surely students couldn’t take notes here, right? They would have terrible back strain! 

Damien had approached an older lady and asked her if she had seen Mark. She pointed to the back and said he would be finishing up soon. Once she had hurried off, he led the way backstage.

-

"Really, Mrs Butterly. I told you I can manage this just - Damien!" Mark scrambled out of the prop set he was tangled up in so he could charge over and pull the law student into a tight hug. Then, as he pulled back, he noticed you standing just behind Damien. There was a flash of confusion that was quickly replaced with a grin. "I thought Damien said you had study classes today. Come here!"

As you were pulled into a hug, you glared at Damien. In response, he shrugged with feigned innocence. "Apologies. I must have misremembered my dates. Mayhaps that is happening next week?"

"To-may-to, to-mah-to. Doesn't matter. You're both here! And it's the perfect time to do so. Once I finish here, I'll be free for the day. Is there anything at all you want to do?"

"Find a bathroom," Damien unceremoniously answered when Mark moved back toward the boxes.

"Oh! That's simple. Go back out the auditorium the way you came, then take the left corridor beside the steps. You should see the door signs from there."

"Thank you. Won't be long."

It wasn't until Damien was gone that you realised you had been betrayed. He left you! Alone! With Mark! How on earth were you going to get out of this??

An idea hit you as you stepped over a box and asked what Mark was even doing.

"I volunteered to help one of my lecturers go through some of the props we store backstage. They want to take inventory to see what we can keep and what we can throw away to replace. It's a treasure trove, and we've barely scratched the surface. I'm just putting all these items away."

A large assortment of items were scattered around the floor surrounding the three large boxes: mugs, books, gardening tools, board game pieces, empty photo frames, folded cloth, and that was at a glance. A fourth box was behind Mark, the flaps on top loosely closing it. In the distance, you could make out other large containers stacked against the walls. 

You offered to help tidy things away, and Mark was delighted to have another pair of hands. As you gathered the pieces of a chess set, Mark explained that there was currently no system as to where to return items. The plan over the upcoming summer break was to renovate the storage space, and then better homes would be assigned for items in the fall.

You admitted it sounded like a lot of work, and Mark agreed.

"You don't realise how much goes into acting. In order to recreate the feeling of watching life unfold, you need everyday items." As an example, he lifted an empty tool bag, "But with so many stories, there are so many props. It's a world all its own. It follows the rules we expect, but has its own laws." As he lowered the bag into one of the boxes, you found yourself unable to look away from the sweet, wistful smile on his lips that often appeared when he could talk about the arts. "It's easy to lose yourself in all the things you can find. Life seems so much simpler in a story, and yet… It's a weird world. We found two broken tubas this morning. Not even Mrs Butterly, the head of drama, could tell me why they were here."

The ridiculous example, along with Mark turning his attention to you, wasn't what you expected, and it brought out a surprised snort. The moment seemed to spur inspiration that brought joy to Mark's face.

When you later found a set of thimbles, questioning why actors needed something so tiny that the audience wouldn't even see, Mark reached over and snatched one out of the box, along with his coat. In moments, he had created a scene of an older lady standing by the window, trying to focus on her sewing when she knew her granddaughter was in the maternity ward. His hand shook, miming the needle pricking his hand despite the thimble.

"- which symbolises that despite the familiar security, the suspense for big news has her distracted." He carefully returned the thimble to its place once he had finished demonstrating his improvised scene, and dumped the coat back on the ground. "Even if the audience can't see it, it helps the actor portray a scene to the best of their ability. You get what I mean?" Chocolate eyes glanced to the side to look you in the eye, and you nodded with a breath caught in your throat. Whatever he saw on your face was enough to prompt Mark to drop to his knees and rummage through the box. 

"It's like, uh…" Several things were lifted and taken out. Mark was muttering, stalling for time while searching for something. You stayed on your feet as you peered into the box, like you could somehow magically know what he was looking for. It meant that you could see the way his face lit up when he grabbed a small box and presented it up to you.

"Like this! To the audience, this box could be anything, but you and I can see the fake glass in the lid to allow us to peer in and see what's really inside." You gasped. It was a beautiful golden pocket watch. The face was a pale cream with bold, black Roman numerals circling it. The hands were stuck at half-past two, but that didn't matter. "It adds to the surprise when the audience sees what your character is excited about, only having to wait a moment for you to open it and share the discovery with them."

"Something to share with me?" A new voice startled you both, heads spinning to see Damien leaning against the wall with arms crossed. "Well, I didn't think you'd propose quite this fast, Mark."

Your head whipped back to look at Mark, suddenly keenly aware of the situation. Him, kneeling on one leg with the other raised and foot on the ground for better support. You, standing as you hold a generic jewellery box. You felt your face heat up as you watched Mark's cheeks begin to turn rosy, only to glance away and try to admire a ladder resting against the wall when Mark caught your eye. Anything was better than looking at Damien's smug face. He was probably relishing seeing his two friends caught right in the middle of a moment.

"I, uh, well, it's more that…" Mark fumbled over his words as the ability to give a reasonable explanation was surprisingly sparse. It was as though something was very suddenly on the forefront of his mind and he was trying very hard not to blurt something out about it. "We were - we were acting! Testing their ability to react to a present."

"Uh huh…." Damien wasn't convinced, even if it was the truth. "So, do I get to be best man?"

"Damien, you are one of the best men I know."

"You're still kneeling."

That, finally, prompted you and Mark to break from the prolonged freeze-frame and scrambled to his feet with such haste that he nearly tripped into the crate. Dropping the jewellery box back where it belonged, uncaring whether it landed safely, you surged forward to help rescue Mark before he became part of the prop inventory.

"Hey, uh… sorry. For putting you in that situation, I mean. I didn't realise what I was doing…"

"Living out your daydreams?"

"Can you stop being a third wheel for ten seconds, Damien?"

Your gaze lowered for a moment while you struggle to think of a response. Was Mark apologising for the embarrassing situation, or for having feelings for you? 

"Are you okay?" Cautiously, Mark rested a hand on your shoulder. Your silence had made him grow hesitant. "I've made you uncomfortable, haven't I?" You shook your head, deciding to redirect focus back to him with your question of whether he was uncomfortable. "Me? I, um, I don't want you to think that I am at all because, well -"

"He wants to ask you out for drinks."

"DAMIEN!!"

"What? You said ten seconds. I gave you fifteen!" Damien raised his hands in self-defense, but you knew that smile was one that was tinged with evil. He was enjoying every minute of this. "Look. You've both danced around this for weeks. And since you've both foolishly confided in me, I decided to take matters into my own hands instead of subjecting myself to any more of this farce. The feelings are mutual, so we should hurry up and get this tidied up so you two can go out and enjoy yourselves."

In all the time you knew Damien, you never expected him to be so blunt about a matter like this. Judging by how Mark's mouth was gaping open like a fish, he was thinking the same. Damien casually stepped around the two of you and began lifting the scattered props like he hadn’t just dropped the biggest secret you and Mark had been desperately trying to hide from one another out of fear of rejection.

"Would you be okay with that?" Mark's whisper caught your attention. When you confirmed as much, Mark leaned over to kiss your cheek. "We'll plan something nice when we're back at my place." He turned away with the intention to help Damien. But when you didn’t move, seemingly still trying to comprehend the last few minutes with eyes lowered, he returned to your side and gently squeezed your hand.

You looked up at him. He smiled.

Somehow, you knew that smile read ‘I love you’.

[sacrivn]

LAS VILES; AN OVERVIEW

Sacrilegious takes place in a city called Las Viles, which resides on, and takes up the whole of, a fictional island of New York that became its own independent land over time. It consists of four districts, holds its own form of government, and provides many opportunities of employment for many of the residents to make less than legal money.

HISTORY

The island was bought by a man named Nikolai Ives, a man who had a concerning desire to rule over a population in an authoritarian government. He came from a wealthy background, so with money that he stole from his relatives he built the foundation of a civilization on an island far from mainlands. He spread the word of said civilization and promoted people to come move into the island under his "guidance." Many were intrigued and began to move into Las Viles, including his wife, son, and his son's friend who was staying with them at the time.

As years passed, the city grew in establishments and grew a population of around 20,000 people. Nikolai led as a sort of dictator figure on the island with a board of government officials to do the little tasks for him but all the power remained on him. He established a book of law similar to the United States minus all the characteristics that allow people to overthrow their leader because then people could boot him out of office. He was also a major dick. He made coming onto the island and getting residency simple, but traveling and moving out became nearly impossible.

One day, Nikolai became deathly sick and needed to find someone new to put into power in his place. He had two options as he had two people help him in his rule; his son and his son's friends. His son, Creon, was a people's person who was reckless but had passion. The friend, Baxter, helped make many of the important decisions and deemed himself much more optimal for the position.

Creon got the position of dictator.

Baxter became furious at this decision, but kept quiet. He currently serves as the advisor of Creon as he waits for the right opportunity to finally get the position he deserves.

DISCTRICTS

The island has four districts; the residential, the establishments, the core, and the quarantined. Each district will get their own post so as to go more into detail about the key areas.

The residential district holds the people's homes. The key areas include the apartment complex, the individual housing neighborhood, the public club, the storage units, and a hotel.

The establishments district holds the business, educational, and recreational facilities. The key areas include the corner store/gas station, the library, the mall, the cafe, the clothing manufacturing headquarters, the university, the cathedral, the mortuary, the nightclub, and the obscure employment agency.

The core district holds the major manufacturers and government establishments. The key areas include the law firm, the courthouse, the guard quarters, the prison, the arms factory, the hospital, the pharmacy, the laboratory, the bank, and the tower of authority.

The quarantined district holds Baxter's underground investments and illicit companies hidden from the public and only accessible through obscure means such as tunnels. The key areas include the cleaners office, the hostel, the hitman's centre, the casino, desolate valley which holds the wealthy population only, the warehouses, and valentine's anatomy distribution.

there is also an energy source in the middle that provides power to the island.