#Stylish Relentless Hoodie

[sinimake]

JOHNSHI attire headcanons! Kenshi part

Kenshi, on the other hand, isn't stricted to one style. He wears what's comfortable, suitable, and required. Effortlessly stylish is the best way to describe him.

Only wears subtle patterns. Sticks to black, white, dark navy, gray, maroon, and red colors

After his blinding, the colors became indistinguishable, so he started to focus more on combining textures

Memorized every article of his clothes and knows what's what with a single touch

Johnny organizes his clothes by their colors in the closet. He doesn't need to but Kenshi appreciate the help because it makes his morning easy

Doesn't buy many clothes, but when he does, he invests in quality, timeless pieces

Converse, combat boots, dress shoes, turtlenecks, dark levis, good button ups, tailored slacks, and suit jackets are stables in his closet

When he dresses up, he knows what he's doing. While Johnny looks expensive and facy, Kenshi radiates old money energy

Leather jacket is a must!

Must have like at least 2 layers on him all the time regardless of weather

Is he getting heatstroke? Absolutely, but Kenshi is nothing but relentless

Would definitely wear subtle urban techwear. Look at me in the eyes and say Kenshi wouldn't wear these with Sento strapped to his back. Look at me

Loves Asian styled clothings. Combines them with western style all the time

Only wears short sleeves around Johnny and at home

The best you will get is a sliver of forearms if he's distracted but Kenshi will absolutely show his cleavage with the top buttons open like a slut he is

Unlike Johnny, he knows when to dress down. Hoodies are his go-to, but just don't let him wear gray sweatpants for Johnny's sake

Dark sun glasses, a ball cap, face mask, and leather gloves. He's just a void when he's in incognito. 100% abuses the fact that he doesn't need his eyes exposed to see where he's going, so he shoves down his hoods all the way to his nose

Read Johnny's part here

[clean-bubbles-aka-bubbles]

Nothing is Worth the Risk?

TW: Swearing and Violence!

"Mark... Cesar... I'm so... sorry..."

Clean Bubbles stood before her bedroom mirror, her reflection staring back at her with determination and paralyzing fear. Today was the day they were heading to the arcade, which usually brought her joy and excitement. 

But today was different.��

Today, her nerves were on edge, her mind consumed by the ever-present, looming threat of the Alternates.

She ran a hand through her blue and black hair, the strands slipping through her fingers like silk. Taking a deep breath, she tried to steady her racing heart, to push down the rising tide of fear that threatened to overwhelm her. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't shake the feeling of impending doom that hung over her like a dark cloud.

With a determined sigh, Clean Bubbles tore her gaze away from her reflection and turned to her wardrobe. She meticulously chose her outfit for the day, ensuring it would blend in with the crowds at the arcade and allow her to move freely and react quickly if needed.

After deliberation, she settled on a comfortable yet stylish ensemble: a black hoodie adorned with a subtle bubble pattern paired with dark jeans and sneakers. It was a simple outfit, but it offered the mobility and flexibility she needed to navigate the crowded arcade easily.

As she slipped into her chosen attire, she couldn't help but feel a sense of unease gnawing at her stomach. She knew every moment she spent with Mark and Cesar was precious, a fleeting respite from the chaos and danger lurking in the shadows.

But she also knew she couldn't afford to let her guard down, not even for a moment. The Alternates were cunning and relentless, their thirst for destruction and chaos insatiable. They would stop at nothing to eliminate her if they discovered her true identity and realized she was standing in their way.

With a heavy heart, Clean Bubbles reached for her utility belt, her fingers tracing the familiar contours of her weapons. She had spent countless hours honing her skills, training her body and mind to prepare for anything. But no amount of preparation could ease the burden of her responsibilities, the weight of the lives she carried on her shoulders. The fear of failure and the weight of her duty threatened to overwhelm her, but she pushed it down, determined to do what was right.

Taking a deep breath, Clean Bubbles fastened her utility belt around her waist, the weight of her weapons comforting against her skin. She knew that she couldn't face the Alternates alone and needed Mark and Cesar by her side. Their unwavering support was her lifeline, her beacon of hope in the face of darkness.

But as she glanced at her reflection one last time, her resolve hardened. She may have been afraid, but she refused to let that fear control her. She would face the dangers ahead with courage and determination for the sake of her friends and their world.

With a determined nod, Clean Bubbles turned away from the mirror and headed out the door, her heart heavy but her spirit unbroken. Today may be fraught with danger and uncertainty, but she would face it head-on, with her friends by her side and her unwavering convictions guiding her every step. She was scared, but she was also brave, and that was what mattered most.

“Bubbles! Mi amiga, I'm glad you are loosening up more than the movie last night!” Cesar was waiting outside her house. Mark was in his car, waiting to pick her up and drive to the arcade. Since the news of Alternates’ appearance lately has been decreasing, they haven’t been appearing since this ‘Celestial Artisan’ has been destroying them instantly on sight. “¿Cómo estás?” He spoke in his native language.

“¡Estoy bien!” She grinned softly, her Spanish speaking skills from high school kicking in because of Cesar’s surprised look. 

His surprise quickly turned into a warm smile at Clean Bubbles' response, his brown eyes twinkling affectionately. "¡Qué bueno verte tan animada, amiga!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine delight. "I'm glad you're feeling better today."

Clean Bubbles returned his smile, her heart swelling with gratitude at Cesar's kindness and understanding. Despite her fears and doubts, he never failed to offer her support and encouragement; she was eternally grateful for that.

"Gracias, Cesar," she replied softly, her voice tinged with sincerity. "I-I'm feeling... better, thanks to you and Mark."

Cesar's smile widened at her words, and his hand gently squeezed her shoulder. "De nada, Bubbles," he said gently. “You're not alone in this. We're in this together, remember?"

Clean Bubbles nodded, her heart lighter than it had been in days. 

Just then, Mark's car pulled up to the curb, and he leaned out of the window. He greeted them with a cheerful smile as they reached the car, his eyes sparkling excitedly. "Hey, guys!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Are you ready to hit the arcade?"

Clean Bubbles forced a smile, her heart pounding as she climbed into the car. "Y-Yeah, let's do this," she replied, her voice tinged with nervousness. "I-I'm ready."

Mark nodded eagerly, his grin widening. "Great!" he exclaimed, starting the car. "Let's go make some memories!"

With that, Clean Bubbles climbed into the car beside Mark, her heart pounding excitedly. Today may be filled with danger and uncertainty, but as long as she had her friends by her side, she knew they would face it together with courage and determination.

As they drove off towards the arcade, Clean Bubbles couldn't help but feel a sense of hope stirring within her. It felt great to let loose despite the dangers of the creatures from Lucifer being unleashed within the world. But even so, she can’t let her guard down and must remain vigilant in keeping out for the creatures while ensuring her identity is compromised. Her hidden weapons were on her utility belt underneath her sweater.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Upon arriving at the arcade, Clean Bubbles' nerves were on edge, her senses on high alert for any sign of danger. The neon lights and lively atmosphere usually filled her with excitement, but today, they only served to heighten her anxiety.

She followed Mark and Cesar inside, the familiar sights and sounds of the arcade washing over her as they made their way through the crowds. Her eyes darted around, scanning every corner for any hint of movement or disturbance.

The Alternates had a knack for infiltrating technology, and the thought of facing them within the confines of the arcade sent shivers down her spine. 

Wait, you might wonder how the arcade was open if Alternates can infiltrate it, right?

Well, it’s simple! Bubbles has created a technokinesis seal to prevent any entity from entering or manipulating the game. They’re hidden, of course, so no one would be able to find and take it off.

Clean Bubbles kept a wary eye for any signs of trouble as they wandered through the rows of arcade machines. She couldn't afford to let her guard down, not even for a moment, not when her friends' lives were at stake.

But as they immersed themselves in the games, the tension in the air dissipated, replaced by the joy and excitement of friendly competition. Clean Bubbles found herself getting lost in the thrill of the games, her worries momentarily forgotten in the heat of the moment.

However, just as she started to relax, a flicker of movement caught her eye. Her heart skipped a beat as she saw a figure lurking in the shadows, its eyes filled with malice and hunger.

It was an Alternate, its presence unmistakable even in the dim light of the arcade.

Panic surged through Clean Bubbles' veins as she realized their danger. She had to act fast to protect her friends and the surrounding people without raising suspicion. Glancing around to ensure no one was watching, she subtly reached for her hidden weapons, her fingers closing around the hilt of her blade.

But before she could pull it out and strike, Mark's voice cut through the chaos, his cheerful laughter ringing out above the noise of the arcade. "Hey, Bubbles, check out this game! It's awesome!"

Clean Bubbles forced a smile, her heart pounding in her chest as she tried to mask her rising panic. "Y-Yeah, I'll be right there," she replied, her voice tinged with nervousness. "J- Just give me a second. I have to do some… business.”

“Okay! Let us know when you’re done!” Cesar exclaimed before he and Mark explored the game.

When Clean Bubbles looked back to where she saw the creature, it was gone. “Huh? What the—”

*Fwip!*

*Smack!*

“OOF!” Clean Bubbles breathlessly coughed as the Alternate tackled her down from behind as they tumbled to a dark and isolated corner where no one could find her. She winced as she felt a claw digging on her side.

She gasped as the weight of the Alternate bore down on her, the force of the impact knocking the breath from her lungs. She struggled against the creature, her heart pounding in her chest as she grappled with the creature's strength.

With a surge of adrenaline, she twisted and turned, using every ounce of her strength and agility to break free from the creature's grasp. She reached for her hidden blade, her fingers closing around the hilt as she prepared to strike.

Before she could unleash her attack, the Alternate snarled and lunged at her again, its claws flashing in the dim light of the arcade. The blue, black, and white-haired girl dodged and weaved, narrowly avoiding the creature's deadly strikes as she fought for her life.

With a fierce determination, the female teen fought back with everything she had, her movements fluid and precise as she countered the creature's every move. She knew she couldn't afford to lose, not when her friends' lives were at stake. 

But she can’t afford to let the creature leave alive, or it will report back to its creator, Lucifer himself, and spill every secret she has been hiding. She was tired of constantly being on the defensive, continually fighting to protect her friends and her world from the threat of the Alternates.

“Damn you!” She cursed, grabbing the Alternate before throwing it off her petite frame. 

*THUMP!*

It landed on the carpet with a resounding ‘thump’ sound effect before it was tackled again. The two rolled and tumbled around quickly, with the entity trying to kill her while she was trying to make sure attention wasn’t drawn toward the gamers. Bubbles winced as she felt a claw grazing her cheek, creating a cut. “Oh, you little–” She growled before imbuing her fist with magical aura sparks and delivering a right hook and an uppercut.

*SMACK!*

The creature let out an angry howl before grabbing Bubbles and throwing her to the ground, making her cough with pain. She gasped as the entity tackled her again.

While she was wrestling with the Alternate, Cesar, and Mark were having fun playing the arcade game Centipede. It was exciting and chaotic for them “Mark! Mark! Aim for the head!” He exclaimed, jabbing a finger toward the heads of the three centipedes. 

“I am trying! Do you think it's easy?” he remarked, his fingers and hands moving swiftly as he aimed to eliminate the insects' heads. 

“Of course it is! You need to aim for the head ONLY!” Mark’s friend facepalmed. “It splits in half if you miss it and hit the body! Oh wait–SPIDER ON SCREEN!” He pointed to the pixelated spider coming in on the screen.

“GOT IT!” He quickly eliminated the being. “Haha! Take that! Now, for the centipede–”

*BLIP!*

The enemy itself destroyed the shooter on the screen. Mark was too distracted with trying to grab the spider, but he ignored the centipede that was closer to the bottom of the screen. “Dang it!” He groaned.

“It’s alright, mi amigo,” Cesar patted him on his back. “You’ve got an impressive high score.”

*THUD!*

A loud thump was heard from behind, and the two turned around quickly. They looked bewildered, seeing Bubbles carrying a large, bony, limply body of… something. 

“Clean Bubbles? W- What is that?” Mark stuttered, pointing to the tall black figure over her shoulder.

“...It’s a model I found lying in the arcade.” She lied, her eyebrow twitching in pain. Earlier, she smashed the Alternate’s head onto the ground, knocking it out. But it bit her ankle simultaneously, so there was a distinctive mark. Thankfully, the dimness of the arcade shadowed the injury. “I thought it was cool to show you… but it’s heavy.”

The boys exchanged puzzled glances, clearly skeptical of Clean Bubbles' explanation. The figure she held seemed anything but a harmless arcade prop.

"Uh, okay..." Mark replied, still eyeing the figure warily. "But are you sure you're okay? You look like you've been through a wrestling match."

She forced a strained smile, trying to downplay the severity of the situation. "Yeah, I'm fine," she replied, her voice slightly breathless from the exertion of the struggle. “I just stumbled and bumped into this thing. No big deal."

Cesar narrowed his eyes, his expression filled with concern. "Are you sure you don't need medical attention, Bubbles?" he asked, his voice laced with worry. "That looks like a nasty bite on your ankle."

Clean Bubbles quickly glanced down at her ankle, cursing inwardly as she saw the telltale mark left by the Alternate's bite. She needed to come up with a convincing explanation and fast. “A dog. I accidentally stepped on a service dog’s tail. It bit me.” She sighed, chuckling lightheartedly at the ‘incident’ she had. “It’s not a biggie. The dog didn’t have rabies. I’ll be fine.”

Mark and Cesar exchanged a concerned glance, unconvinced by Clean Bubbles' explanation. However, they trusted her enough not to push the issue further. After all, she had always been secretive about certain aspects of her life, and they had learned to respect her boundaries.

"Alright, if you say so," Mark replied, still eyeing the figure suspiciously. "But let us know if you need anything, okay? We're here for you."

Clean Bubbles nodded gratefully, her heart warmed by her friends' concern. Despite the dangers lurking in the shadows, she knew she could always count on them to have her back.

"Thanks, guys," she said softly, a genuine smile gracing her lips. "I really appreciate it. I’ll go find and put this thing back where I found it."

“See ya, then! We’ll be waiting at Galaga!” Cesar nodded. With that, the boys returned to their game, the events of the encounter slowly fading into the background as they immersed themselves in the fun and excitement of the arcade.

Clean Bubbles dragged the Alternate to a secluded area where no one was watching her. She grabbed her blade and made quick work with the entity. It quickly began melting, turning into a black, gooey puddle. A soft sigh left her lips as she used her magic and quickly cleaned up the black mess on the carpet. “There, no one would suspect!” She chuckled nervously.

She then felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning slowly, her eyes widened with surprise as she saw a staff member of the place who looked… flawed. Its pupils were large as it stared uncannily into her soul. It also had an unhinged jaw that looked like it melted and drooped down like clay.

“Dammit.” Bubbles grumbled, grabbing its head. She quickly twisted it and snapped its neck.

*SNAP!*

Clean Bubbles swiftly disposed of the corrupted staff member, her heart racing with adrenaline as she realized their danger. She couldn't afford to let anyone discover her true identity or the existence of the Alternates. With a glance around to ensure no one was watching, she carefully disposed of the body, using her magic to erase any traces of their encounter.

As she straightened up, her mind raced with possibilities.

How many more corrupted individuals had infiltrated the arcade?

Were they working alone, or had their “Lord and Savior” given them a specific command and order?

Pushing aside her fears and doubts, Clean Bubbles focused on the task. She needed to protect her friends and the surrounding people and ensure their safety. With a determined resolve, she set off to find Mark and Cesar, her senses on high alert for any signs of danger.

After a few minutes of searching, she finally spotted them engrossed in a game of Galaga. Their laughter filled the air as they battled against the alien invaders on the screen. Relief flooded through Clean Bubbles as she approached them, her heart swelling with gratitude for their unwavering support and friendship.

 However, she noticed another person hidden in the shadows had that same Alternate uncanny look. Its limbs were thin, bony, and long as it quietly reached over to the two. 

Bubbles walked swiftly, grabbing the Alternate’s head before snapping its neck.

*SNAP!*

It broke on instance, and she disposed of the body back into the shadows before turning to the boys. "Hey, guys," she greeted them with a smile, her voice tinged with relief. "Are you Having fun?"

Mark and Cesar turned to her with smiles, their eyes excitedly bright. "Hey, Bubbles!" Mark exclaimed, his grin widening. "You missed out on all the action! We're kicking alien butt left and right!"

Cesar chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Sí, it's been quite the adventure," he added, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "But it would be even better with you here. Care to join us?"

Clean Bubbles couldn't help but smile at their enthusiasm, her heart warmed by their genuine camaraderie. Despite the dangers lurking in the shadows, she knew she could always count on her friends to lift her spirits and make her feel like she belonged.

"Thanks, guys," she replied, her voice filled with gratitude. "I'd love to join you. Let's show these aliens who's boss!"

With that, Clean Bubbles took her place beside Mark and Cesar, her fears momentarily forgotten as they plunged into the thrilling world of Galaga. Together, they battled against the alien invaders with skill and determination, their laughter echoing through the arcade as they fought.

As they played, a sense of camaraderie stirred. She had never felt so belonged after being so lonely with no one for fifteen years. It was painful and sad to carry a burden that she felt no one else could shoulder, but with her friends, she felt lighthearted from the mission she had to focus on.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The game drew to an exciting close, with their team achieving a high score that lit up the leaderboard. The feeling of victory was palpable among them. Clean Bubbles, Mark, and Cesar exchanged high fives, their earlier laughter mingling with a shared sense of accomplishment. Moments like these made the girl momentarily forget the weight of her double life and embrace the joy of simple, youthful fun.

"Man, that was intense!" Mark exclaimed, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow with a wide grin. "But we did it! High score, guys!"

Cesar beamed, his eyes gleaming with pride. "We should come here more often," he suggested, still riding the high of their victory. "It’s a great break from the usual routine, and it's good for team building, no?"

She nodded, the warmth of their friendship enveloping her. "Definitely," she agreed, her voice light and filled with a rare carefreeness. "It's nice to just... let go and have fun like this."

Her eyes wandered around the arcade, taking in the bustling activity around them. Families and groups of friends were immersed in their games, their laughter and cheers adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the place. It was a welcome reprieve from the dangers lurking outside, a bubble of normalcy in her tumultuous life.

As they headed to exit the arcade, Bubbles noticed some movement out of the corner of her eye. She saw several tall and skinny Alternates hidden in the arcade's dim lights, quietly hunting their prey, which was the trio and the oblivious people who were gaming.

“Oh! Mark, Cesar,” she cleared her throat. “I-I have to use the bathroom real quick. Sorry.”

“No need to apologize, it’s normal.” Cesar lightheartedly chuckles it off. 

“We’ll wait for you outside,” Mark added as he and his childhood friend stepped out of the arcade.

The playful atmosphere of the arcade, buzzing with the sounds of games and laughter, suddenly felt heavy with impending danger to Bubbles. How could she not have noticed this!? She inwardly cursed for being so… carefree from her job. But now, she knew she had to act fast to protect her friends and the unsuspecting people around her.

Glancing around to ensure that Mark and Cesar were out of sight, she quietly approached the area where she had noticed the unsettling movement. Her heart raced, and her hands gripped her concealed weapons tightly, ready to be drawn at a moment's notice.

The dim lights of the arcade cast long shadows, perfect for the Alternates to hide and strike unnoticed. Clean Bubbles' eyes narrowed as she scanned the area, her senses heightened to every sound and movement. In the darker part of the arcade near an old, out-of-order pinball machine, the elongated shadows coalesced into the distinct, skeletal forms of the Alternates.

She moved silently, her footsteps muffled by the cacophony of digital noise. As she neared the group of lurking figures, she could see their forms more clearly—distorted, their limbs unnaturally long, faces devoid of any human expression. These were no ordinary arcade goers; they were threats, each one potentially deadly.

Without hesitation, Clean Bubbles prepared to spring into action. The element of surprise was on her side. But before she could do so, she felt a clawed hand grabbing the back of her neck, making her cough and gasp as the sharpness dug into her neck. 

Clean Bubbles' reflexes kicked in instantly as she felt the sharp claws dig into her skin. Twisting violently, she managed to slip out of the creature's grasp, adrenaline surging through her veins. With no time to spare, she drew her concealed weapon—a sleek, silver blade that gleamed under the arcade's neon lights.

Facing her attacker, Clean Bubbles saw the twisted features of the Alternate, its eyes glowing with a sinister light. She knew these creatures were not just mindless beasts; they were cunning and dangerous, often sent by their creator, Lucifer, to hunt down those like her who stood in their way.

Determined not to let this creature harm her or anyone else, Clean Bubbles lunged forward, her blade aimed at the creature’s chest. But the Alternate was quick, dodging her attack with a grotesque agility that seemed almost unnatural. It countered with its own swipe, forcing Clean Bubbles to roll to the side to avoid a lethal strike.

The sounds of the arcade around them—the blips and beeps of games, the laughter and shouts of patrons—seemed to fade into the background as Clean Bubbles focused entirely on her foe. 

Everything wasn’t fair for her. 

But this was her reality, a constant battle lurking beneath the surface of her everyday life.

Regaining her footing, Clean Bubbles didn't hesitate. She attacked again, this time with more force, driving the creature back against an arcade machine. The screen flickered wildly as the machine absorbed the impact of the creature's body.

“Enough of this…!” She grabbed her blade, ready to end the creature.

“Whoa! This machine shook!” One of the gamers behind the arcade machine they were playing exclaimed. 

“That’s so cool!” Another one perked up. “Since when they added real-life effects in the machine!?”

“CRAP!” Bubbles inwardly cursed again, belittling herself for not paying attention to where she was taking the fight.

With a quick flick of her wrist, Clean Bubbles adjusted her stance, bringing her blade close and readying for another strike, mindful now of her surroundings. Her heart raced as she attempted to conceal her battle from the oblivious gamers just a thin panel away.

Sensing her hesitation, the Alternate smirked—a grotesque twisting of its distorted features—and lunged. Clean Bubbles parried with her blade, sparks flying as metal clashed against the creature's talon-like fingernails. She couldn't afford to draw this out any longer; the risk of exposure was too significant.

Thinking fast, she made a split-second decision. She released her grip on her blade and instead focused on creating a diversion to mask their altercation. Channeling her abilities, she activated the arcade machine, causing its lights to flash and its buttons to malfunction erratically.

The sudden chaos drew the attention of the nearby gamers, who were now more engrossed in the spectacle of the malfunctioning machine than the scuffle happening in the shadows.

Glancing around swiftly to ensure no onlookers were watching, she maneuvered the creature into a narrower, less visible gap between two arcade machines. "Time to end this," she muttered under her breath, her voice a blend of resolve and exhaustion.

With a deft move, she thrust her blade upwards, aiming for a vital spot beneath the creature's ribcage. The Alternate hissed in pain as the blade found its mark, dark, viscous liquid oozing from the wound. It clawed desperately at her, but she sidestepped gracefully, withdrawing her blade with a slick pull.

Clean Bubbles watched as the creature staggered, its form dissolving into the same black, viscous, gooey substance she had encountered. It let out a guttural sound that was part growl, part curse before it vanished completely, leaving no trace behind except for the sticky residue on her blade and her racing heart.

“Damn it…” She cursed, shaking her head as she wiped off the black substance from her weapon. She also winced from the bite mark on her ankle. However, before she can focus on healing before fighting back, she is grabbed by the neck by another sharp claw and tossed against a wall.

*SMACK!*

*THUD!*

Clean Bubbles hit the ground hard, the force of the impact driving the air from her lungs. She barely had a moment to recover before she felt the sharp pressure of another Alternate's claw pressing against her throat. Struggling for breath, she clawed at the ground, trying to push herself up and fight back.

This new creature was larger and seemed even more menacing than the last. Its eyes glowed with a malevolent light, and it leaned closer, its cold breath against her face. "You think you can interfere with our plans so easily?" it hissed, its voice a chilling whisper that sent shivers down her spine.

Gritting her teeth, Clean Bubbles summoned her strength and quickly slid her hand to grab the hilt of her blade, which had skidded a few feet away during the scuffle. With a swift, practiced motion, she swung the blade up, slicing through the claw that held her, freeing herself from its grasp.

The creature howled in pain and anger, retracting its injured limb. Clean Bubbles didn't waste a moment; she rolled to her feet, blade at the ready, her eyes locked on her adversary. She knew she couldn't afford to let this creature escape—its knowledge of her could jeopardize not only her safety but also that of Mark and Cesar.

The arcade's flashing lights and electronic sounds created a chaotic backdrop for their deadly dance. Clean Bubbles dodged another swipe from the creature, her movements fluid despite the adrenaline pumping through her veins. She needed to end this quickly and quietly—no easy task in the bustling arcade. “GR!” With a swipe of her blade, she decapitated the monster’s head with a quick ‘chop’ noise.

The head flew by and hit the spasming arcade machine, which immediately reverted back to normal. “Hey! The game works now!”

“Yay!” 

The blue-and-black-haired girl grumbled and panted, fixing her disheveled look. “These Alternates are getting annoying…” she grunted, instinctively gauging a blade into an Alternate who attempted to sneak attack her.

❁ ≖≖✿❁ ≖≖ ❁

In the meantime, Mark and Cesar were waiting for her. It had only been ten minutes while they were waiting for their friend. “Hey, Mark,” the male wearing the gray sweater turned to the male wearing a suit. “Do you think Clean Bubbles is alright?” Cesar questioned him. 

He knew they had been hanging out within the past couple of weeks, and they quickly got attached. However, suspicions stirred within him for his new friend. She had been acting funny, hiding the bite mark from her ankle. To find this creepy skeletal model of a creature from the backrooms of the arcade was… uncanny.

Mark paused, his expression reflecting a mix of concern and uncertainty. "I'm not sure," he admitted, scratching his head. "She seems like she's handling everything okay, but sometimes... I don't know. It feels like she's holding something back. Like there's more going on than she lets on."

Cesar nodded slowly, his gaze drifting towards the arcade's entrance, half-expecting Clean Bubbles to appear at any moment. "Yeah, I get that feeling too. She's tough, no doubt, but that thing she dragged out... it didn't look like any ordinary arcade prop to me."

Mark sighed, his eyes filled with worry. "And that 'dog bite' on her ankle looked pretty bad. She played it off like it was nothing, but I'm worried. I mean, who gets bitten by a dog inside an arcade?"

“Anyone can.” The Hispanic teen shrugged. “She did say she accidentally stepped on its tail.” 

Awkward silence played between the two boys before Mark spoke. “But besides the point, she seems tense when we’re not paying attention. It's as if she’s shouldering something we’re unaware of.”

His friend nodded in agreement, his expression serious. "Yeah, I've noticed that too. It's like she's constantly on edge, always watching her surroundings, always doing some sort of heavy lifting. It makes me wonder what she's hiding."

Mark frowned, his mind racing with possibilities. "Do you think... she's in some kind of trouble? Like, maybe someone's after her or something? Maybe it’s family matters?"

Cesar shrugged, uncertainty clouding his features. "I don't know, man. But whatever it is, I think we should be there for her. She's been a great friend to us, and if she's in trouble, we must help her however we can."

Mark nodded, determination shining in his eyes. "You're right. We'll keep an eye on her and make sure she's okay... even if it's personal affairs that harm her."

The two friends waited patiently for Clean Bubbles to return, their minds filled with concern and determination to uncover the truth behind their friend's mysterious behavior. 

❁ ≖≖✿❁ ≖≖ ❁

Back at the arcade, Clean Bubbles just finished snapping the last Alternate’s head off from its place. “Agh…” She panted heavily. Her clothes were soaked in the black substance from the Alternates, which was supposedly their blood. She clicked her tongue as she got a taste of the substance. “Blegh!” She spat slightly. “This tastes rotten… as if someone or some people performed a ritual on a person, and now taste like a corpse.” She wiped her tongue with the sleeve of her sweater. 

She quickly surveyed the area to ensure no bystanders had witnessed her grim battle. The arcade's flashing lights and the cacophony of game noises continued unabated, starkly contrasting the silent violence she had just enacted in its shadows.

Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, she began erasing any evidence of the fight. Using her abilities, she focused intently, her hands moving with practiced precision as she conjured a cleansing spell. The dark stains began to dissolve, vanishing without a trace from the arcade's carpet and her clothing.

“There… now I can use the bathroom,” she chuckled, walking off to do her business.

But she paused, remembering the bite mark. 

Even if she tried to heal it quickly, the boys would suspect that she wasn’t human and was an Alternate unless there was a chance that someone else would believe she was something else, but that’s not likely the case. 

She stepped back from the bathroom entrance. She quickly glanced around, trying to find a safer spot where she could clean off the blood from her pants and fix the wound. Spotting a janitor's closet, she hurried over and slipped inside, thankful for the momentary privacy. Inside, she found supplies that would hopefully do the trick. She grabbed some heavy-duty paper towels and began trying to clean the blood on her clothes. Bubbles also used healing magic to heal the wound and make it look more natural than inhuman.

The grime was stubborn, but she reduced its appearance enough to pass a casual glance. However, the physical evidence of her skirmish was the least of her worries. The emotional and mental toll was harder to disguise. She leaned against the cool wall of the closet, allowing herself a brief moment to collect her thoughts and steady her breathing.

Her mind replayed the close calls of the day. She was getting too close to being exposed, and the increasing frequency of Alternate attacks was a clear sign that they were becoming more coordinated and perhaps even aware of her true capabilities. It was only a matter of time before she would have to confront larger forces or make tough decisions about her double life.

Exhausted from the strain of constant vigilance and combat, Clean Bubbles knew she couldn't keep going like this indefinitely. The burden of her secret identity was becoming too heavy to bear alone. She was torn between the desire to protect her friends by keeping them ignorant of the dangers they faced and the need to have allies who understood the full extent of the threat. The thought of involving Mark and Cesar in this darker aspect of her life filled her with dread; she couldn’t bear the thought of their already abnormal lives being ripped apart like hers.

Shaking her head to clear these troubling thoughts, Clean Bubbles checked her appearance one last time in the dim light of the closet. She needed to maintain her facade, at least for now, until she could develop a better plan. Stepping out of the closet, she ensured her expression was calm and untroubled as she returned to her friends.

As she approached Mark and Cesar, who were waiting outside the arcade, their faces lit up with smiles, but their eyes held a trace of concern.

Mark spotted her first, his expression lighting up with relief as she approached. "There you are!" he exclaimed. "We were starting to worry. Everything okay?"

Standing beside him, Cesar eyed her appearance, noting the slight disarray in her attire. "You look a bit off, Bubbles. Sure you're alright?"

"Yeah, all good," she replied, forcing a smile. "Just needed a moment to myself. Thanks for waiting."

She noticed their concerned glances and knew she had to divert their attention. "So, who won the game?" she asked, injecting a playful note into her tone.

Mark chuckled, the tension in his expression easing. "Cesar did, but only because he cheated," he accused, nudging his friend playfully.

Cesar defended himself with a laugh. "I did not cheat! It's called strategy. Learn the difference, mi amigo."

Their banter was a welcome return to normalcy, allowing Clean Bubbles to relax slightly as the focus shifted away from her. She laughed along, enjoying the momentary peace.

However, her respite was short-lived. She noticed a flicker of movement from the corner of her eye, a subtle reminder that the threat was never far away. She tensed, her senses sharpening, but upon closer inspection, it was just a couple of kids running past, their laughter echoing through the arcade.

"Guess I'm still on edge," she thought, scolding herself internally for being overly cautious. Yet, she couldn't afford to let her guard down completely, not when danger had a way of hiding in plain sight. 

Mark suggested grabbing dinner together, an idea that was enthusiastically agreed upon. The trio found themselves at a nearby diner, a cozy place known for its hearty meals and friendly service.

As they settled into a booth, the waitress came over with a smile and took their orders. The casual chatter about movies, music, and mundane daily occurrences continued, allowing Clean Bubbles to revel in the normalcy of the conversation—something she cherished more than she could express.

However, her mind was never entirely at ease beneath her calm exterior. The encounter with the Alternates at the arcade was a stark reminder of the ever-present danger she and everyone around her face. She knew she couldn’t let her guard down, not entirely.

But for now, surrounded by her friends in the warm, inviting atmosphere of the diner, she allowed herself to relax slightly. The laughter and conversation washed over her, easing the tension built up over the past weeks.

The dinner was filled with shared stories and laughter, especially when Cesar attempted to mimic an accent he had heard in one of the games. This caused Mark to almost spit out his drink in laughter. Clean Bubbles found herself laughing along, her earlier fears temporarily forgotten under the weight of genuine joy.

As they walked back to Mark's car, the streets bathed in the soft hues of the night, Clean Bubbles felt a surge of gratitude. "Thanks, you guys," she said, looking at both of her friends with a sincere smile. "Today was needed. I had a great time."

Mark, who was unlocking the car, smiled warmly at her. "We're just glad you could come out and chill with us, Bubbles," he replied, opening the door for her. "You know, you should let your hair down more often."

Cesar agreed, getting into the car. "Yeah, and remember, whatever it is that's weighing on you, you can share it with us. We're here for you, no matter what."

Their words heavyened her heart, knowing just how much she was keeping from them. Yet, she appreciated their support more than they could possibly know. "...Thanks," she murmured as she climbed into the car. That means a lot."

She felt a complex mix of emotions swirling within her as they drove off. The day's joy was tinged with the silent acknowledgment of the battles yet to come. With friends like Mark and Cesar, she felt stronger, braver, and much less alone.

But the burden she carried couldn’t be told to them, knowing she’d be putting them in more danger than they already knew.

“We’re here, at Bubbles’s house.” Mark stopped the vehicle. They reached the street where they would part ways. Clean Bubbles hugged each of them, and the warmth of their friendship provided a small comfort against the cold fear that lingered in her heart. "Goodnight, Mark, Cesar. See you tomorrow."

"Goodnight, Bubbles," they replied in unison, watching her as she walked away, her figure slowly disappearing into the house.

Alone now, Clean Bubbles allowed herself to feel the total weight of her solitude and the burdens she carried. She knew she couldn't keep her secrets forever, and the thought of what would happen when the truth came out haunted her every step.

But she knew she must be prepared to face whatever challenges awaited her, armed with the knowledge that, for now, she had the support of her friends—even if they didn't know the whole truth.

❁ ≖≖✿❁ ≖≖ ❁

Outside, while Cesar and Mark were heading back to their house (with Mark dropping off Cesar first), they seemed to be lost in their thoughts on the way. “Hey, Mark, do you think we should stop, turn around, and go see Bubbles? Do you think she’s doing something in her house that makes her…you know? Feel so… tense?”

Mark glanced at Cesar, his expression thoughtful as he navigated the quiet streets. "I've been thinking about that too," he admitted. "Something's definitely up with her. She's always a bit on edge, and today in the arcade... did you notice how quickly she changed after coming back from that 'bathroom break'?"

Cesar nodded, his brows furrowed in concern. "Yeah, and she looked like she had been in a scrap or something. I mean, who gets all messed up from just going to the bathroom? And that whole thing with the 'model' she found? It all seems really off."

Mark sighed, tapping the steering wheel nervously. "Maybe we should just ask her straight up? I mean, if she’s in some kind of trouble, we should let her know we’re here to help, right?"

"I agree, but we have to be careful not to push her too hard. She's really private about her stuff, and I don't want her to think we're prying too much and end up pushing her away," Cesar responded, his tone laced with caution.

Mark gripped the steering wheel tighter, his eyes focused on the road ahead but his mind racing with Cesar's question. It wasn't the first time the thought had crossed his mind that maybe, just maybe, Clean Bubbles was dealing with something much more significant than she let on. Her often distant gaze, how she sometimes flinched at sudden movements, and her unexplained absences all added to a narrative that worried him more each day.

"Yeah, I've been thinking about that too," Mark finally said, his voice tinged with concern. "But, you know, Bubbles has always been upfront about needing her space. We should respect that, even if we're worried."

Cesar nodded, his gaze fixed on the passing streetlights flickering outside the window. "I get that," he agreed. “But it's not just the tension, Mark. It's everything. She's been acting really off lately—more than just needing space. I mean, what was that back at the arcade? That wasn't normal."

Mark sighed, slowing the car as they approached a red light. He drummed his fingers on the steering wheel, recalling the moments at the arcade. "Yeah, the arcade thing was strange. I've never seen her like that. It's like she was on high alert or something. She also kept stealing glances behind us as if she expected some monster to stalk us."

"And that 'model' she found? That wasn't a model, man," Cesar added, his voice low. "I've seen enough weird stuff to know that wasn't normal. I just... I don't want her to think we're not here for her, you know?"

The light turned green, and Mark drove on, his mind racing with the same concerns. "I know exactly what you mean. Maybe we're not doing enough. Maybe she needs more from us, more support."

Cesar looked over at Mark, his expression serious. "We should talk to her, really talk. Not just let it slide next time something weird happens. We should let her know she can rely on us, for anything."

"Yeah, I've been thinking the same," Mark admitted, his voice low. "Something's off. She's our friend, Cesar. If she's in trouble or if there's something big she's hiding, it will not just affect her. It could involve us too, whether or not we're ready for it."

Cesar nodded slowly, his worry for their friend evident on his face. "I know," he replied, the concern evident in his voice. "But if we go back now, uninvited, wouldn't that cross a line? She might not appreciate us prying into her life like that."

"That's true," Mark conceded, his brow furrowing. "But maybe it's not about prying. Maybe it's about being there, making sure she knows she's not alone, whatever she's facing." He paused, considering his following words carefully. "I think we should at least offer our help again, make it clear we're here for her, no matter what."

Cesar remained silent for a moment, mulling over Mark's words. Finally, he let out a deep sigh. "Okay, let's do it. Let's turn around and go back. Even if she doesn't open up to us, she'll know we're there for her, right?"

Mark turned the car around with a decisive nod, heading back to Clean Bubbles' house. The drive was quiet, each of them lost in their thoughts about the myriad of possibilities that might be affecting their friend.

╚⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤╝

Back at her house, she leaned against the door and exhaled deeply. The weight of her double life felt crushing in the solitude of her home. She wandered through the quiet rooms, replaying the day’s events and the close calls that had come far too close for comfort.

The quiet was deafening. Every sound seemed amplified—the clock ticking, the distant bark of a dog, the whisper of the wind against the windows. She moved mechanically through her nightly routine, but her thoughts were chaotic and tangled.

Her encounters with the Alternates were escalating, and their boldness worried her. They were getting closer, becoming more daring. And her friends—Mark and Cesar—were getting more perceptive. How long before they stumbled upon the truth?

She sighed, her reflection in the mirror, a pale shadow of her usual self. Her secrets felt heavier tonight, each one a chain locked around her heart.

She knew she couldn't keep going like this. Something had to give, and she needed to make some decisions soon. But for tonight, the only thing she could do was prepare for the next day, hoping she could protect her friends and herself from whatever was coming their way.

She needed to be more robust and more cautious. Her involvement with the Alternates was becoming more dangerous, and the stakes were higher than ever. The safety of her friends was her priority, and the thought of them getting hurt because of her battles terrified her.

She sat at her desk in her room, flipping open a hidden compartment to reveal her secret stash of notes and artifacts related to her fight against the Alternates. She stared at the items, each a reminder of the battles she had fought and the ones still to come.

As she touched each item, her heart ached with regret and betrayal. But it was for their own good. She knew that she couldn’t keep her secrets forever. The time would come when she would need to trust Mark and Cesar with the truth to ultimately bring them into her world.

It was a daunting thought, but as she looked around her room, surrounded by the evidence of her battles and sacrifices, she felt a quiet strength building within her. She wasn’t just fighting for herself anymore; she was fighting for her friends, the semblance of normalcy they brought into her life, and the moments of laughter and companionship that had become her solace.

As she climbed into bed, the moonlight streaming through the window cast a silvery glow across her room. She closed her eyes, and for just a moment, she allowed herself to wish for simpler times—before she had to carry the world's weight on her shoulders.

But wishes were for fairy tales, and her life was far from a storybook.

*CRASH!*

She jolted out of her sleep when she heard a broken window downstairs. “What the…? An Alternate in my house!?” she grumbled, grabbing her weapon and hiding her arsenal and items in the secret compartment. 

╚⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤╝

Outside, oblivious to the crash, Mark and Cesar arrived at the front of her house. They both stepped out and looked at each other nervously. They hoped and prayed that they weren’t met with an angry Clean Bubbles stirred from her sleep or, worse, an Alternate that had already killed her.

“...Do you want to do it, mi amigo?” Cesar glanced at the teen wearing the gray sweater.

The teen shook his head towards his Hispanic friend. “No, you can do it.”

“What!? Why me!?” the teen in a tuxedo looked at him incredulously. “You’re going to chicken out on me!”

“You’re the one talking!” the teen in the gray sweater remarked. “Remember when we went to that FAKE haunted house once, and you got scared by a ghost who was my sister? You jumped in my arms, literally.”

Cesar flushed, his cheeks coloring as he remembered the embarrassing moment all too well. "Hold on a second–" he grumbled. "You screamed like a little girl when we went camping that time when a frog jumped on your face.”

The brown-haired teen scowled. “That was one time!” he protested. “And it was a surprise frog attack! Anyone would have screamed!”

“It wasn’t even THAT big!” The darker brown-haired Hispanic teen huffed. “Besides, it was YOUR fault who poked it!”

“Yeah,” Mark rolled his eyes at Cesar. “It’s like how you disturbed a tiny nest of owls and got pecked and screeched by a Barn Owl.”

The two bantered nervously outside Clean Bubbles' house. Their voices were hushed, mindful of the late hour and the possibility of waking her or attracting unwanted attention. They stood on the dimly lit street, the night heavy with anticipation and the weight of their unspoken concerns.

Cesar chuckled sheepishly at Mark's accusation, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hey, that was one time, okay? That bird sounded like a demon!"

Mark rolled his eyes, but a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, yeah, whatever you say, man. But this is different. We're not dealing with bird demons; we're dealing with Bubbles, and she's a lot scarier than any apparition."

Cesar nodded reluctantly in agreement, his gaze drifting back to Clean Bubbles' house. "Alright, fine. I'll do it. But if she gets mad and blasts me with some kind of magic, you owe me big time."

Mark grinned, clapping Cesar on the shoulder. "Deal. But I'll be right behind you, ready to run if things go south."

With a deep breath to steady his nerves, they approached Clean Bubbles' front door, each step heavy with uncertainty. They exchanged glances, gathering their courage before Cesar finally rang the doorbell. Silence followed the soft chime echoing slightly in the cool night air. They waited, ears straining for any sound from inside the house.

╚⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤╝

With Clean Bubbles, she cautiously walked downstairs, staying vigilant for anything that came up. Nothing seemed to be destroyed since she didn’t have a lot of stuff at her house. After all, she’s a minimalist. 

But what caught her eye was that one of the windows near the living room was shattered. Even a mini-statue of an owl was knocked over. “Oh, come on! Not the owl statue!” She rushed over, picked it up, and placed it back on its stand. “At least the Intruder plushie is safe…” She muttered, glancing at the hooded toy on the kitchen counter’s shelf. “Now, where in the world–”

She was cut off as she heard a low growl and cold breath hitting the back of her neck. Elongated claws aimed to strike her in the marble kitchen counter's reflection.

Clean Bubbles’ instincts kicked in before she could fully register the danger reflected in the kitchen counter's gleaming surface. She ducked and rolled away swiftly, honed by countless encounters of similar peril, narrowly escaping the lethal swipe aimed at her.

As she regained her footing, she faced her assailant—a grotesque creature with elongated limbs and a distorted face that barely resembled anything human. 

It was an Alternate, undoubtedly, and a particularly vicious one at that. Its eyes glowed with an evil red light, fixating on her with an intensity that chilled her to the bone.

"You're far from where you belong," the creature hissed, its voice a disturbing mix of glee and menace. "This ends tonight, Celestial Artisan."

The mention of her hidden identity made her blood run cold. The Alternates weren’t just attacking randomly; they knew who she was, or at least they suspected. Clean Bubbles clenched her jaw, tightening her grip on her weapon—a compact yet deadly blade that gleamed under the dim kitchen lights.

"I don't know what you're talking about," she retorted, trying to keep her voice steady. "And you’ve picked the wrong house to break into."

With a ferocious roar, the Alternate lunged at her again, faster and more aggressive than before. Clean Bubbles parried with her blade, sparks flying as she deflected its claws with precise, controlled movements. She was on her home turf now, and she would defend it with everything she had.

The creature snapped and swiped, each movement more desperate as it sought to overpower her. But Clean Bubbles was relentless, her attacks calculated and ruthless. She managed a sharp kick that sent the creature stumbling backward, giving her a moment to breathe. 

With a leap, she prepared to drive the blade into its chest, but she was slapped away.

*SMACK!*

She hit a shelf that was filled with books and tiny ceramic statues. The books tumbled and bonked on her head, but she had to catch the fragile props so they wouldn’t break when they fell. The fight tonight needed to be quiet. Any noise drawn would draw attention to bystanders or more Alternates, and it's already too much for her to handle. She needed to dispose of this Alternate in case it left alive to tell its “Lord and Savior” of her true identity. 

╚⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤╝

Seconds passed, and just as Cesar began to wonder if they should leave and try another time or try again. The night was too quiet, and every tiny sound seemed amplified under the veil of their concern.

“Mark, should we try again or wait?” He looked at his friend. They waited, the seconds stretching into what seemed like hours. No response came from inside the house.

“Let me try.” The male wearing the gray sweater pressed the doorbell, more insistently this time, while Cesar peered through the side window, trying to catch a glimpse of movement inside.

"Can you see anything?" Mark whispered, his voice tense. He looked at where his friend was looking.

Cesar shook his head and furrowed his brows. "No, nothing. It's a bit dark. Dang tinted windows.”

Mark's heart raced as they waited for a response. The tension in the air was palpable, each passing moment feeling like an eternity. He glanced around the dimly lit street, his senses on high alert, searching for any sign of movement or sound from inside the house.

"Just keep an eye out," Mark whispered back, his voice barely audible over the quiet night. He leaned closer to the door, straining to hear any faint sound from within.

Suddenly, a noise broke the silence—a low growl followed by what sounded like a struggle inside the house. Mark's heart skipped a beat, and he exchanged a worried glance with Cesar.

"Did you hear anything?" Cesar's voice was barely above a whisper, his eyes wide with concern.

“I did. Listen,” Mark motioned his friend to press his ear against the door.

The Hispanic male concentrated on picking up any frequency, but it seemed so… quiet. “What? I-I don’t hear anything at all, Mark.”

╚⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤╝

Inside, Clean Bubbles was engaged in a fierce battle with the Alternate, each move and countermove a testament to her training and resolve. The creature was relentless, but she was determined not to let it gain the upper hand. With a swift maneuver, she managed to pin it against the ground, her blade pressed against its throat.

"Who sent you?" she demanded, her voice hard as steel. "What do you want from me?"

The creature smirked, its eyes gleaming maliciously. "You know who sent me," it rasped. "And you know what we want. But you're too late, Celestial Artisan. The end is coming, and you can do nothing to stop it."

Before she could press further, a loud knock resounded through the house, startling her. The creature took advantage of her momentary distraction and kicked her back, freeing itself. Bubbles hissed as she hit her head against the ground, her blade leaving a gash across her wrist simultaneously.  “You can’t keep hiding forever, and your friends won’t be spared from the likes of us and our Lord and Savior.” It snarled as it approached her menacingly. 

“And you have been a thorn in my sanity.” Bubbles stood up, brushing off the wound before charging again. She did a quick baseball slide between the legs of the creature before standing up and hopping onto its back. She summoned tape before wrapping it around the creature's mouth. “Sorry ‘bout this, Alternate.” She readied her blade to stab it. It was a bit difficult since she couldn’t use magic, hence flashing lights and magical sound effects. But before she could bring down the blade, the inhuman creature grabbed her shirt before throwing her at the staircase of her house.

*THUD!*

Bubbles coughed and winced, feeling her back sore from hitting the steps. “Damn, staircase. I should’ve chosen carpet.” It was painful, considering that they were jabbing out. “AH!” She had to conjure up an axe before throwing it at the anomaly, which it simply side-stepped to avoid the prop.

“Ha! You missed–!” It was cut off as Bubbles leaped from the stairs, tackling it.

╚⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤⏤⏤╗❀╔⏤⏤⏤╝

Mark's heart sank at Cesar's words. If his friend couldn't hear anything, then maybe they were overreacting. Maybe Clean Bubbles was just dealing with something mundane, and they were intruding on her privacy for no reason. But the memory of their conversation in the car, the worry etched on Cesar's face, kept nagging at him.

"Maybe we should just leave," Cesar’s friend suggested, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "I mean, she might just be asleep or something. We don't want to wake her up for no reason."

The black-haired male hesitated, torn between their concern for Clean Bubbles and the possibility of invading her privacy. "Yeah, maybe you're right," he conceded reluctantly. "Let's give her some space."

 Mark nodded, though a part of him felt uneasy about leaving without knowing for sure if Clean Bubbles was okay. But they had done their part by coming back and offering support. They couldn't force her to accept it if she didn't want to.

But before they could get the chance to step away from the door–

*CRUNCH!*

An axe blade pierced through Bubbles’s house's wooden door with a loud, sickening crunch of wood breaking. “AAH!!” Cesar screeched like a girl and hopped into Mark’s arms, huffing at the sudden weight he was carrying.

The axe blade, still quivering from the impact, protruded ominously through the door, a stark reminder of the genuine danger lurking just beyond it. Mark and Cesar stood frozen for a moment, their eyes wide with shock and fear. The banter and hesitation of moments ago evaporated into the cold night air, replaced by the chilling reality of their friend's peril.

“The hell!?” Cesar shook his head, trying to process what had transpired. Was Bubbles mad? Was she fighting someone or something? Was she combating one of those Alternates?

“Ahem!” Mark sarcastically cleared his throat, trying to breathe and see because his Hispanic friend held him in his arms. “Seriously, Cesar?”

His sarcasm temporarily broke the tension, and his friend in a tuxedo blushed, realizing his reaction had been a bit over the top. He quickly regained his composure Mark’s legs trembled under his friend’s weight. "Jesus, Cesar, get off!" Mark grunted, struggling under the sudden weight of his friend. He gently set Cesar down, his mind racing with panic. 

The two approached the door cautiously, Mark reaching out to slowly pull the axe free from the door. The metal screeched against the wood, a harsh, grating sound in the quiet night. With a final tug, he freed it, holding it warily as if unsure what to do next.

"Should we... go in?" Cesar whispered, his voice barely audible.

Mark nodded, setting the axe aside. "Of course. I’m going in," Mark declared, his voice firm. He tried the doorknob, only to find it locked. “Damn it. I should’ve known.” Without a second thought, he took a few steps back and then charged at the door, shoulder first.

*BAM!*

The door burst open under the force, and both boys stumbled into the dimly lit hallway. They were immediately met with the chaotic aftermath of a struggle: overturned furniture, broken items, and, more disturbingly, a dark, viscous substance splattered on the floor.

"Clean Bubbles?" Cesar called out tentatively, his voice echoing slightly in the quiet house.

There was no answer, just the oppressive silence of the house. Mark and Cesar exchanged a glance, their hearts pounding as they moved deeper into the home, cautious and alert to any signs of danger.

As they reached the kitchen, they stopped dead in their tracks. The scene before them was one of evident violence. The kitchen table was overturned, and more dark substance was smeared across the floor and walls. 

Inside, they found Clean Bubbles breathing heavily, a weapon in hand. The room was in disarray, furniture overturned, and more of that strange, dark substance staining the carpet. She had been in a fight that had taken a toll on her physically and mentally.

“B-Bubbles?” Mark shuddered with shock and surprise. His gaze fixated on his friend covered in some liquid while holding a strange weapon.

“M-Mark… Cesar?” She stuttered, turning to face her friends, fear and nervousness evident in her eyes. “I-I can explain… maybe…”

“Clean Bubbles…” The Hispanic teen’s eyes widened in horror as he pointed to the substance on her clothes. “I-Is that… blood?” He couldn’t tell due to the dim light of the house. He frowned, suspecting that she was more than just an ordinary girl. “Have you been…?”

“H-Hey, let’s not jump to conclusions.” Mark tried to calm his friend.

“Have you been murdering people!? Are you an Alternate!?” Cesar accused, pointing a finger at her as she flinched.

“N-No!” She remarked, squeaking as he grabbed her by the collar.

“Tell us what’s going on! Don’t lie to us anymore! You’re hiding something!” He demanded angrily, shaking her back and forth. She was getting dizzy from the vigor shaking.

Clean Bubbles winced as Cesar shook her, her eyes darting between him and Mark, pleading for understanding. "I'm not lying, Cesar!" she protested, her voice shaky with fear and frustration. "I'm not an Alternate, and I haven't been... murdering anyone!"

“Then what have you been doing in secret!?” Cesar's voice was filled with mistrust and betrayal, his grip on Clean Bubbles' collar tightening just a fraction. Mark, however, maintained his calm, understanding that escalating the situation wouldn't help them uncover the truth.

He stepped forward, placing a hand on Cesar's shoulder to stop him from shaking her further. "Calm down, Cesar," he said firmly, his voice low but steady. "Let's hear her out."

However, it seemed that his friend wasn’t going to give up. “Mi amigo, what do you mean ‘let her hear out?!’” He turned to his friend, gesturing to her while holding her with one hand. “Mark, she has been lying to us the entire time, and now, she’s been killing–whatever it is–in secret!”

Before Mark or Bubbles could speak, he continued. “Look, everyone, and we are already dealing with these ‘Alternates’ in Mandela County, creatures that can mimic and shapeshift. People can’t figure out how to kill them, but the only one who can is this ‘Celestial Artisan!’ I don’t want to believe that Bubbles is an Alternate, nor the fact that she has been putting herself in danger and is almost getting herself killed! Or even worse, working for the Alternates as a human for them!”

Clean Bubbles' heart sank at Cesar's accusation, feeling the weight of his words like a physical blow. She knew she couldn't blame him for thinking the worst; after all, she had kept so many secrets from them, and her recent struggles had only added to their suspicions.

But she couldn't let them believe she was some kind of monster. Not when they were the closest thing she had in this chaotic world.

“Look, put her down. She’s already stressed enough.” Mark tightened his grip on his friend’s shoulder.

A tense moment rang out before Cesar sighed. “Fine… but you need to explain. NOW.” 

She took a deep breath, careful at how much she needed to conceal and conceal. She knew that it wasn’t the time right now. “Look… I-I was simply defending myself from an Alternate. I-I wasn’t killing anyone.” She partially lied, hiding the fact that she killed an Alternate. Because in their current situation, she feared that some Alternates might be watching secretly. If Mark and Cesar knew she was fighting, the Alternates would realize she had allies and could use them against her. “I-It broke through my window… and I used a kitchen knife to fend it off, but I didn’t kill it since it was… abnormally strong like it is.”

Another moment of tense silence passed before Mark spoke. “There’s more to that story… isn’t it?” His voice was filled with solemn confusion. “You’re origins that you told me… you’re not actually from here, are you? You never came from here, nor do you even have parents or a sister. Am I… wrong?”

She felt her heart tighten at Mark's words, realizing that the depth of her secrets was beginning to surface, and her facade was crumbling. The room seemed to close around her, each second stretching out as she searched for the right words, knowing full well that whatever she said next could forever alter their relationship.

She sighed, a long and weary exhalation filled with the weight of her burdens. “You’re not wrong, Mark,” she finally admitted, her voice low and fraught with emotion. Her gaze shifted between Mark and Cesar, seeing the confusion and concern etched on their faces. “I... I didn’t want to involve you or drag you into this chaos. But yes, I’m not from here—not in the way you think.”

Cesar's expression hardened slightly, a mix of hurt and betrayal passing fleetingly across his features. “So, what? You’ve been lying to us this whole time?” His voice cracked slightly, displaying a rare vulnerability.

“I-In a way, yes, b-but–” Her resolve wavered, and for a moment, she considered telling them everything—the truth about her identity as the Celestial Artisan, her battles against the Alternates, and her endless struggle to maintain a semblance of normalcy while protecting the dimensions from the chaos that threatened to engulf them all.

BUT THIS WASN’T RIGHT.

The gravity of what she was about to reveal was pressing down on her. She realized that exposing the full depth of her secret could endanger her, Mark, and Cesar. If the Alternates ever discovered that her friends knew the truth, it could put them directly in harm's way.

She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. Her mind raced for a way to protect her friends while maintaining the necessary secrecy. "Look, I... I've been dealing with a lot," she started again, her voice steadier this time. “And yes, there's a lot I haven't told you. Not because I don't trust you, but because I was trying to protect you both."

Mark and Cesar exchanged a look, the tension between them palpable. They were struggling with the revelations and the evident breach of trust. Yet, it was also clear that they cared deeply for their friend, their concern etched in the lines of their faces.

Cesar's expression softened slightly, his earlier anger giving way to concern. "Bubbles, we're your friends," he said, his voice gentle. "Whatever you're dealing with, you don't have to do it alone. We want to help you, not just be kept in the dark."

Mark nodded in agreement, his resolve firm. "He's right. We've seen enough to know you're not just our friend but also someone fighting a bigger battle. Let us help, Bubbles. Whatever it is, we can handle it. So please… tell us."

Clean Bubbles looked into the earnest eyes of her friends, torn between the desperate need to share her burdens and the overwhelming fear of putting them in danger. The silence hung heavy in the air, filled with the weight of unspoken truths and the faint sounds of the night creeping around the damaged doorway. Her eyes began to water up as she bit her lower quivering lip. She gripped her shoulders tightly as she looked away, her guilt evident in her body gestures.

As much as she appreciated the help, the risk was too significant and dangerous. She knew it’d get her in trouble and the boys killed.

“I… I can’t.” She shook her head, wiping away the tears of frustration. “Not… now. I can’t.”

Cesar blinked, bewildered. “What do you mean?” He asked. “We’re friends–”

“We’re not,” she cut him off.

“I… We can’t be.” She looked away from them, her back facing the two. “I don’t deserve to be your friend… never in the first place.” She narrowed her blue eyes to the ground, self-loathing herself for being so carefree in a world of horrors and dangers that kept coming in 24/7.

Mark and Cesar stood stunned, the harshness of her words slicing through the tension like a knife. The silence that followed was heavy, filled with the weight of her sudden withdrawal and the pain it brought with it.

Cesar was the first to recover, his voice soft but insistent, tinged with hurt. "Bubbles, why would you say that? After all we've been through? You're more than just a friend to us. You're part of our lives now."

The girl kept her back turned, her body tense, and every fiber of her being screaming in protest against her words. But she believed it was necessary to keep them safe—this distance. The risk of them getting hurt because of her battles was too high.

Mark stepped forward, his voice firm yet gentle, trying to bridge the gap her words had created. "We don't care about the dangers, Bubbles. Whatever this is, whatever you're hiding, it's not just your burden to carry. Let us help you."

But she shook her head slowly, resolute yet heartbroken. "You don't understand," she whispered, her voice cracking. "This isn't just about what I'm hiding. It's about keeping you out of harm's way. The more you know, the more danger you're in. I can't... I won't let that happen."

Cesar, his frustration growing, stepped closer. "So what? Will you just push us away? After everything, we just... stop being friends?" His voice rose, a note of anger mingling with his disbelief.

Bubbles turned around, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, her resolve faltering as she faced them. "I don't want to," she admitted, her voice whispering. "But it's better this way for everyone. You have to leave. You need to go."

“So you’re just going to leave–abandoned us!?” The Hispanic teen exclaimed incredulously. 

“JUST GO!”

She snapped, holding back the tears of guilt. “Please…” Her voice softened, filled with fragile emotion, and she never wanted to show them she was vulnerable.

The air hung heavy with tension as Mark and Cesar exchanged uncertain glances. They could see the pain etched on Clean Bubbles' face, the turmoil within her. But they also knew that pushing her further might only drive her away.

Cesar sighed, his frustration giving way to resignation. He reached out a hand as if to offer comfort but hesitated, unsure if she would even accept it. "Okay, Bubbles," he said softly, his voice heavy with regret. "We'll... we'll go."

Mark nodded in agreement, his heart heavy with the weight of their fractured friendship. "Yeah," he echoed, his voice barely above a whisper. "Just... take care of yourself, Bubbles. And if you ever need us... you know where to find us. Let us know."

With one last lingering look filled with unspoken words and stifled worries, Mark and Cesar turned and left the house, the broken door swinging slightly on its hinges behind them. Their footsteps faded into the night, leaving Clean Bubbles alone with her secrets and the remnants of the battle that had unfolded.

As the sound of their car engine started and faded away, Clean Bubbles sank to the floor, her back against the wall. “Damn it… I’m so stupid…” She drew her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around them tightly. The fight had drained her, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. The loneliness of her double life was never more palpable than at that moment, echoing hollowly in the quiet of her home.

She closed her eyes, the events of the evening replaying in her mind like a nightmarish loop. Her friends' faces, filled with concern and confusion, haunted her. She had pushed them away for their safety and to keep them out of the dangerous world she navigated. But the cost of that decision weighed heavily on her, a burden she wasn't sure she was strong enough to bear alone anymore.

The house was silent, eerily so. The only sounds were the occasional creaks and whispers of the wind against the shattered window. It was a stark reminder of the destruction and the potential for more if she couldn't contain the threats that sought to breach her world.

As the night stretched, she grappled with the harsh reality of her existence—a reality that demanded sacrifice and solitude, even at the cost of the friendships she held most dear.

With a deep, steadying breath, Clean Bubbles stood up. She walked over to the broken window and looked into the night. The quiet streets of Mandela County offered no answers, but the stars above shimmered with a faint promise of hope.

She turned away from the window and began to clear the debris and chaos. Each movement was mechanical, a way to keep her mind focused and away from the overwhelming flood of emotions threatening to break through her carefully constructed barriers. 

Yet, it didn’t feel the same as the other days when she came home. Usually, it would be simpler for her to wave off these incidents, but now, she can’t make them forget about the conversation. She also doesn’t want to forget about them, too, but it was for their own sake… maybe.

She sighed as she fixed everything before heading back upstairs, ready for bed. She sobbed one last thing before sleeping.

"Mark... Cesar... I'm so... sorry."

[essentialsclothing3]

The Development of Streetwear

Where Essentials Clothing Suits

Over the years, streetwear has evolved fascinatingly from obscure subcultures to the height of popular fashion. Once thought of be subterranean, today it graces the runways and is becoming well-known worldwide. Many firms have found opportunities thanks to this cultural change, each adding something different to the streetwear scene. Among these manufacturers, Essentials clothing has found a niche for itself in the United States, thanks in great part to its unique look and premium materials.

A Synopsis of Streetwear History

The colorful cultures of skateboarding, surf, and hip-hop started to shape fashion in the late 1970s and early 1980s, hence sparking streetwear's beginnings. Its expansion was significantly aided by the United States' West Coast, especially California. Inspired by the growing surf culture and ready ground for what would become a worldwide movement, brands like Stüssy arose. With artists and fans both embracing a style marked by huge silhouettes and strong graphics, streetwear evolved and the impact of music—especially hip-hop—further confirmed its place in popular culture. From punk to urban, each streetwear business serving different subcultures, the 1990s and early 2000s saw an explosion of streetwear labels setting the foundation for the mix of luxury and casual wear defining modern streetwear today.

Streetwear originated in America's energetic metropolitan hubs in the 1970s and 1980s. Skateboarding, hip-hop, and punk music combined in a melting pot to produce a rebellious and unique style. The young people especially found it appealing as the appearance was all about expressing uniqueness and challenging social conventions. Streetwear started to take off as the decades passed, peaked when well-known designers started including it into their designs.

Essentials Clothing: Streetwear's Core Knowledge

Essentials clothing became a classic brand as streetwear grew into a worldwide sensation since they embodied the values of simplicity and utility. Essentials emphasizes comfort and adaptability over brands with strong logos and aggressive designs, therefore stressing a more subdued approach without compromising style. This method fits the taste of modern streetwear consumers for clothing that looks well from casual to more formal environments. Essentials has drawn a varied clientele from fashion-forward youngsters to professionals looking for an easy but elegant wardrobe with its neutral palette and understated branding. Its dedication to excellence guarantees endurance, therefore enabling pieces to become lifetime members of one's wardrobe—a major determinant of the brand's increasing popularity.

Essentials clothing are evidence of the brand's relentless dedication to style and quality. For people who seek both comfort and good fashion, the brand deftly closes the distance between them. Essentials apparel items—including the well-known Essentials Hoodie, sweatshirts, tracksuits, and T-shirts—have found its way into the closets of many American customers because of their sharp eye for modern trends and respect of timeless pieces.

Essentials Clothing's Special Attractive Value

Essentials clothing appeals especially to modern customers since they can effortlessly combine functionality with style, a mix that speaks to them strongly. Essentials' simple design philosophy fits very nicely with the needs of a flexible wardrobe in a fast-paced environment when adaptation is essential. Essentials produces items that are dependable mainstays by concentrating on premium materials and a neutral color palette, thereby naturally complimenting a range of ensembles. The brand's focus on comfort does not sacrifice style; it provides a stylish yet laid-back look that would go quite well from day to night. Furthermore, the understated elegance of the branding appeals to people who want a less obvious but still elegant look. Essentials clothing are a preferred choice for many trying to create a modern, practical closet since they strike a mix between simplicity and elegance.

Why has Essential hoodie become so firmly established in the packed streetwear scene? The response is simple: perfect quality and a strong awareness of consumer needs. Every item in the collection is painstakingly created from quality materials to guarantee comfort and lifetime. Simple yet elegant designs from the firm offer adaptability for many events. Moreover, Essentials clothing gives sustainability first priority, which appeals especially to environmentally aware consumers of today.

How Current Trends Match Essentials Clothing

Demand for adaptable and ecological apparel is at an all-time high in the modern fashion scene, and Essentials clothing fit quite nicely with these trends. Emphasizing low-key design and premium materials, Essentials satisfies the expanding customer taste for clothing with both style and utility. The brand's neutral color scheme fits the current trend of building capsule wardrobes in which mix-and-match flexibility takes front stage. Furthermore, Essentials' dedication to sustainability shows a major change in fashion toward environmentally friendly methods, a trend that young and eco-aware consumers find to be very crucial. Emphasizing careful consumption, Essentials also appeals to the minimalist and anti-fast fashion trends by creating robust clothes meant to stay. This congruence with modern trends guarantees that Essentials clothing stays not just relevant but also rather appealing in the always changing streetwear scene.

The desire for sustainability and authenticity rules today's fashion scene. Customers are being more discriminating and looking for products that fit their moral standards. Essentials clothing easily fits into this story and provides items that not only fulfill but beyond these standards. Designed to be timeless, the Essentials Hoodie and other products let customers easily fit them into their own looks.

Wardrobe Styling Using Essentials Clothing

Essentials clothing provide flexibility and elegance when styling your wardrobe; they are classic pieces that will improve any outfit. Starting with basic pieces like the Essentials Hoodie, T-shirts, and track pants—all of which have a neutral color palette that would easily mix with current clothing—build a basic capsule wardrobe. For a traditional style, wear the Essentials Hoodie beneath a jacket for a more put together look or team it with jeans and sneakers for a laid-back day out. While Essentials' sweatshirts offer comfort and style when matched with joggers or fitted pants, the brand's T-shirts can be easily dressed up with a skirt or dress pants. Key is layering; mix and match these items to create varied ensembles that fit various events by including accessories like bags and caps. Emphasizing Essentials' simple design helps you to make sure that every item accentuates the others, thereby reflecting new trends and providing comfort and functionality.

Given their adaptability, including Essentials clothing into daily wear is simple. While wearing a tracksuit with sleek shoes gives an athletic edge, pairing an Essentials Hoodie with classic jeans can produce a laid-back yet sophisticated style. These components are really essential since they let one move from day to night with ease.

The Crucial Part Streetwear Plays in Contemporary Fashion

Thanks in great part to its capacity to break free from conventional limits and combine several cultural inspirations, streetwear has become a powerful weapon in modern fashion. Rising out of the 1980s and 1990s skateboarding and hip-hop communities, streetwear has become a worldwide phenomenon combining haute fashion with urban sensibilitiesation. Streetwear's adaptability lets people communicate their own identities via comfortable yet fashionable clothing. It democratizes fashion and invites many voices and designs to help to shape trends. Companies like Essentials have embraced streetwear's core by creating items that appeal to the need of today for authenticity and utility. Streetwear has evolved from a fashion statement to a lifestyle choice reflecting the always shifting dynamics of modern society by means of its laid-back forms and simple attitude. Streetwear is still a major player in the fashion business as it develops and affects everything from daily wear to runway presentations.

Streetwear has progressed from simple trend status in recent years to become a pillar of modern fashion. Essentials clothing is still very important in challenging limits and establishing new benchmarks in an ever changing terrain. Essentials stays front and foremost as streetwear develops, combining creativity with history to finally push the genre.

Prospective Future for Essentials Clothing

Looking ahead, Essentials clothing is likely to keep on its rising path, leveraging its advantages and staying flexible enough to fit the always shifting fashion scene. The brand's commitment to quality and sharp awareness of current market needs reassure shoppers that Essentials clothing is not only a passing fad but a pillar in fashion for years to come. Essentials clothing is poised to lead the charge, creating norms of style, comfort, and sustainability in the U.S. market and beyond as streetwear keeps redefining itself and adjusting to the cultural zeitgeist. This deliberate approach to fashion guarantees not only the lifetime of the brand but also its cultural relevance in next fashion debates.

Client Evaluations

Essentials apparel is highly praised by consumers for its remarkable mix of comfort, fashion, and durability. Many consumers like the Essentials Hoodie's adaptability from a laid-back day wear to a more sophisticated evening look. Reviews often highlight the quality of the materials; consumers stress how well the items hold up following several washes. The dedication of Essentials to sustainability excites consumers equally; they praise the environmentally friendly methods and robust designs that fit their ideals. The simplicity of the design and neutral color palette get compliments for their ability to mix and match with current outfits, therefore enabling simple style assimilation. Customers often believe that Essentials clothing provides excellent value for money since their articles not only fulfill but sometimes beyond expectations in terms of appearance and utility.

[leathergoods12]

Ted Lasso Coach Jacket: Perfect for Fans

The Ted Lasso coach jacket has become more than just a piece of clothing. It’s a symbol of optimism, leadership, and the fun-loving spirit of the hit TV series. Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis, may be known for his infectious positivity, but his sense of style also stands out. The coach jacket he frequently wears has captured the attention of fans everywhere. At Jorde Calf, we’ve crafted the perfect replica for fans who want to channel their inner Ted Lasso, combining comfort, style, and a bit of that TV magic.

The Popularity of Ted Lasso's Look

The popularity of Ted Lasso’s character transcends the show itself. With his quirky sayings and relentless positivity, he has become a cultural icon. His wardrobe, especially the signature coach jacket, adds to his relatable and endearing personality. This jacket isn’t just for sports enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who appreciates a comfortable, versatile, and stylish piece of clothing.

At Jorde Calf, we’ve reimagined the Ted Lasso coach jacket to keep the spirit of the character alive. Whether you're watching the game or meeting friends, this jacket fits seamlessly into any wardrobe. It’s a jacket for every occasion, and it brings with it the charm of Ted Lasso’s positive outlook.

The Style of the Ted Lasso Coach Jacket

The Ted Lasso coach jacket is all about simplicity and elegance. It’s not over-the-top or flashy, yet it stands out with its clean lines and understated design. Made from high-quality materials, our version at Jorde Calf is durable, practical, and comfortable.

The lightweight fabric makes it perfect for layering. Wear it over a hoodie during cooler days, or pair it with a t-shirt for a relaxed look. The jacket’s minimalist design ensures it can be styled with just about anything. Whether you're going for a sporty look or a casual vibe, the Ted Lasso coach jacket adapts effortlessly.

Quality Craftsmanship

At Jorde Calf, we take pride in our attention to detail. The Ted Lasso coach jacket is crafted using premium materials to ensure durability and comfort. The outer shell is made of water-resistant fabric, perfect for unpredictable weather. The soft inner lining adds warmth without being bulky, making it ideal for various seasons.

We’ve also ensured that the stitching and finishing are flawless, so your jacket looks great and lasts long. The buttons and zippers are high-quality, providing a secure fit without compromising style. Every element of the jacket is designed with both form and function in mind, giving you a stylish yet practical piece.

Versatility for Every Occasion

The ted lasso warm up jacket is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. You can wear it to casual outings, to the gym, or even on a night out with friends. Its simple design makes it easy to pair with jeans, chinos, or even shorts.

For fans of the show, this jacket also serves as a conversation starter. People will instantly recognize the signature style and associate it with the lovable coach. It’s more than just a fashion statement—it’s a symbol of optimism, much like Ted Lasso himself.

A Tribute to Leadership

The Ted Lasso coach jacket is not just a fashion accessory. It represents leadership, humility, and kindness. Ted Lasso’s character leads with empathy, optimism, and resilience, values that resonate with people beyond the world of sports.

When you wear the Ted Lasso coach jacket, you’re not just wearing a piece of TV memorabilia. You’re embracing the qualities that Ted Lasso represents. It’s a reminder to stay positive, be kind, and always believe in yourself and others. This jacket serves as a subtle but powerful tribute to the show’s message.

Why Choose Jorde Calf?

At Jorde Calf, we understand that fans of Ted Lasso are looking for more than just a jacket. They want a piece of the show’s magic. That’s why we’ve put so much care into every aspect of our Ted Lasso coach jacket. From the materials to the stitching, every part of this jacket has been carefully crafted to meet the high standards we set for all our products.

We also believe in providing value for money. The Ted Lasso coach jacket at Jorde Calf is competitively priced, giving you a high-quality product without breaking the bank. It’s a timeless investment that will serve you well for years to come.

How to Style the Ted Lasso Coach Jacket

Styling the Ted Lasso coach jacket is incredibly easy. For a laid-back, casual look, pair it with jeans and a t-shirt. If you're going for a more polished vibe, layer it over a button-down shirt. The jacket’s neutral color and simple design make it easy to mix and match with various outfits.

During colder months, you can wear the jacket over a hoodie or sweater for added warmth. Its versatility ensures that it fits seamlessly into any wardrobe, no matter your style preferences.

Ted Lasso: The Cultural Phenomenon

It’s impossible to talk about the Ted Lasso coach jacket without mentioning the cultural impact of the show. Ted Lasso has taken the world by storm with its heartwarming storylines, lovable characters, and, of course, its unique sense of style. The jacket has become one of the most recognizable pieces of clothing on the show, embodying Ted’s down-to-earth personality and leadership qualities.

Fans around the world have embraced Ted Lasso, not only for his coaching skills but for his unwavering optimism and kindness. Wearing the Ted Lasso coach jacket is a way for fans to celebrate these qualities and bring a little bit of that positivity into their own lives.

Conclusion

The ted lasso track jacket is more than just a stylish piece of outerwear. It’s a symbol of optimism, leadership, and the spirit of the beloved show. At Jorde Calf, we’ve crafted a high-quality version of this jacket, making it the perfect addition to any wardrobe. With its versatile design, comfortable fit, and timeless appeal, the Ted Lasso coach jacket is a must-have for fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re wearing it to support your favorite team or just want to add a touch of Ted Lasso’s charm to your everyday look, this jacket is the perfect choice. Explore our collection at Jorde Calf and find the Ted Lasso coach jacket that fits your style.

[szasosmerch12]

Jordan clothes

Jordan Clothes: Unleash the Power of Air Jordans Clothing

In the world of fashion, few names resonate as profoundly as Jordan. From the iconic Air Jordans to the latest Jordan outfits, this brand has been synonymous with excellence, innovation, and style. Whether you're hitting the court or the streets, adorning yourself in Jordan clothes isn't just about fashion—it's about making a statement, embodying a legacy, and elevating your style to new heights.

Unveiling the Essence of Jordan Clothes

At the heart of Jordan clothes lies a legacy of greatness. Inspired by one of the most legendary basketball players of all time, Jordan clothing transcends mere fashion; it encapsulates a mindset of determination, excellence, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Every stitch, every design element, speaks volumes about the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful.

The Iconic Air Jordans Clothing Line

No discussion about Jordan clothes is complete without mentioning the iconic Air Jordans clothing line. Introduced in 1984 by Nike, Air Jordans revolutionized the sneaker industry and transcended the realm of sports to become a global cultural phenomenon. With their innovative designs, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort, Air Jordans aren't just shoes—they're a lifestyle. From the timeless classics like the Air Jordan 1 to the latest iterations featuring groundbreaking innovations, each pair tells a story of athleticism, style, and innovation.

Crafting Your Perfect Jordan Outfit

Creating the perfect Jordan outfit is an art form—a reflection of your personality, style, and attitude. Whether you're going for a casual streetwear look or aiming to make a bold statement on the court, the key lies in understanding how to mix and match different pieces to achieve the desired effect. From iconic Jordan sneakers to stylish apparel like hoodies, tees, and track pants, the possibilities are endless. Embrace bold colors, striking patterns, and attention-grabbing accessories to truly make your Jordan outfit stand out from the crowd.

Embracing the Jordan Lifestyle

Beyond just clothing and footwear, embracing the Jordan lifestyle is about embodying a mindset of excellence, perseverance, and self-belief. It's about pushing past your limits, chasing your dreams, and never settling for anything less than greatness. Whether you're an athlete, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates quality and style, Jordan clothes offer more than just garments—they offer a gateway to a world of endless possibilities and unmatched inspiration.

Conclusion: Make Your Mark with Jordan Clothes

In conclusion, Jordan clothes represent more than just a fashion statement; they embody a legacy of excellence, innovation, and style. From the iconic Air Jordans to the latest Jordan outfits, each piece is a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful. So why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your style with Jordan? Step into greatness, unleash your potential, and make your mark with Jordan clothes.

[jordanclothes]

Jordan Clothes

Jordan Clothes: Unleash the Power of Air Jordans Clothing

In the world of fashion, few names resonate as profoundly as Jordan. From the iconic Air Jordans to the latest Jordan outfits, this brand has been synonymous with excellence, innovation, and style. Whether you're hitting the court or the streets, adorning yourself in Jordan clothes isn't just about fashion—it's about making a statement, embodying a legacy, and elevating your style to new heights.

Unveiling the Essence of Jordan Clothes

At the heart of Jordan clothes lies a legacy of greatness. Inspired by one of the most legendary basketball players of all time, Jordan clothing transcends mere fashion; it encapsulates a mindset of determination, excellence, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Every stitch, every design element, speaks volumes about the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful.

The Iconic Air Jordans Clothing Line

No discussion about Jordan clothes is complete without mentioning the iconic Air Jordans clothing line. Introduced in 1984 by Nike, Air Jordans revolutionized the sneaker industry and transcended the realm of sports to become a global cultural phenomenon. With their innovative designs, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort, Air Jordans aren't just shoes—they're a lifestyle. From the timeless classics like the Air Jordan 1 to the latest iterations featuring groundbreaking innovations, each pair tells a story of athleticism, style, and innovation.

Crafting Your Perfect Jordan Outfit

Creating the perfect Jordan outfit is an art form—a reflection of your personality, style, and attitude. Whether you're going for a casual streetwear look or aiming to make a bold statement on the court, the key lies in understanding how to mix and match different pieces to achieve the desired effect. From iconic Jordan sneakers to stylish apparel like hoodies, tees, and track pants, the possibilities are endless. Embrace bold colors, striking patterns, and attention-grabbing accessories to truly make your Jordan outfit stand out from the crowd.

Embracing the Jordan Lifestyle

Beyond just clothing and footwear, embracing the Jordan lifestyle is about embodying a mindset of excellence, perseverance, and self-belief. It's about pushing past your limits, chasing your dreams, and never settling for anything less than greatness. Whether you're an athlete, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates quality and style, Jordan clothes offer more than just garments—they offer a gateway to a world of endless possibilities and unmatched inspiration.

Conclusion: Make Your Mark with Jordan Clothes

In conclusion, Jordan clothes represent more than just a fashion statement; they embody a legacy of excellence, innovation, and style. From the iconic Air Jordans to the latest Jordan outfits, each piece is a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful. So why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your style with Jordan? Step into greatness, unleash your potential, and make your mark with Jordan clothes.

[moonley18]

Better Never Rests Hoodie

Embrace the spirit of continuous improvement with the Better Never Rests Hoodie UGA. This hoodie is not just a piece of clothing; it's a philosophy that resonates with those who strive for excellence. The sleek design with a powerful message, creating a hoodie that is both stylish and motivational.

Crafted from premium materials, this hoodie offers warmth and comfort, making it a versatile choice for chilly days and nights. Whether you're a student, an athlete, or simply someone with a relentless pursuit of improvement, the Better Never Rests Hoodie is a bold and cozy statement of your commitment to always strive for the best.

[print-street]

Elevate Your Brand with Printstreet- India's Premier Custom Product Printing Services

Your #1 choice for online custom product printing services in India. Elevate your brand with our expert customization and personalized t-shirt solutions.

In a world that is increasingly driven by visual aesthetics, the power of customization and personalization cannot be underestimated. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to leave a lasting impression on your customers or an individual seeking to express your unique style, Printstreet emerges as your go-to destination for custom product printing services in India. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and a customer-centric approach, Printstreet is here to elevate your brand and make you stand out in style.

The Art of Customization

Customization is not just about adding your name or logo to a product; it's about turning ordinary items into extraordinary personal statements. At Printstreet, they understand this art and offer a wide range of products that can be transformed into unique, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. From Personalized t shirts and hoodies to mugs, phone cases, and much more, you can personalize just about anything.

Unparalleled Quality

One of the most significant advantages of choosing Printstreet is the relentless commitment to quality. Your brand deserves nothing but the best, and Printstreet ensures that. The products they offer are sourced from trusted suppliers, and their state-of-the-art printing technology guarantees sharp, vivid, and long-lasting prints. Every product is a testament to their dedication to delivering excellence.

Expert Customization

At Printstreet, they don't just provide customization; they offer expert guidance in creating designs that are aesthetically pleasing and communicate your message effectively. Their team of design experts works closely with you to ensure that your vision is translated onto the product precisely. Whether you're looking for corporate merchandise, promotional products, or personal items, Printstreet's expertise can turn your ideas into reality.

Quick Turnaround

Time is of the essence in today's fast-paced world, and Printstreet understands that. They offer quick turnaround times without compromising on the quality of your custom products. You can count on them to meet your deadlines, be it for a corporate event, a special occasion, or a marketing campaign.

Sustainability Matters

In a world that is increasingly conscious of environmental issues, Printstreet takes sustainability seriously. They prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable practices throughout their production process. Your custom products aren't just statements of style but also of your commitment to the planet.

Personalized T-Shirts and Beyond

While personalized t-shirts are among the most popular products at Printstreet, the options don't stop there. Imagine having your company's logo on eco-friendly tote bags, your family's portrait on a custom photo calendar, or your favorite quote on a stylish mobile phone case. With Printstreet, the possibilities are endless.

Perfect for Brands

For businesses and startups, a strong brand identity is crucial. Customized merchandise like t-shirts, caps, and stationery can help solidify your brand's image and increase recognition. Printstreet offers a range of branding solutions that can make your brand stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Celebrate Special Moments

Printstreet also caters to individuals looking to celebrate special moments in style. From personalized birthday gifts to custom wedding favors, their services allow you to make memories tangible. These custom products are not just gifts but tokens of love and thoughtfulness.

Easy Ordering Process

Ordering your custom products from Printstreet is as easy as it gets. Their user-friendly website lets you upload your design, choose your product, and specify your preferences. You can also reach out to their support team for assistance if needed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the #1 online custom product printing services in India, look no further than Printstreet. Their dedication to quality, expertise in customization, commitment to sustainability, and quick turnaround times make them the ideal choice for individuals and businesses alike. With Printstreet, you're not just getting custom products; you're getting a piece of art that reflects your personality or brand's identity. Elevate your style, elevate your brand—choose Printstreet.in today!

Contact Us

Customer Support: 040 4852 3838

Address: 102, Kamala Arcade, 1-11-192, Shyamlal Buildings, Opp Paradise, Sardar Patel Road, Begumpet Hyderabad 500 016, Telangana, India

[bluelockmerchanse]

Blue Lock Fans Unite!

Here Are the Top 10 Must-Have Items from the Official Store

Are you a die-hard fan of the manga and anime series Blue Lock? Do you want to show your love for the story's characters and their relentless pursuit of victory on the soccer field? Well, look no further! We have scoured through the official store and compiled a list of the top 10 must-have items that every Blue Lock fan should own. From stylish clothing to collectible figures, these products will not only satisfy your fandom cravings but also make great additions to your collection. So, let's dive in and explore what this incredible store has in store for us!

Introduction to Blue Lock

Welcome, Blue Lock fans! As you know, the official store is now open and we have some great items available for purchase. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the top must-have items from the store.

First up is the Blue Lock t-shirt. This shirt is made of 100% cotton and features the Blue Lock logo on the front. It's available in sizes S-XXL and is perfect for showing your support for the team.

Next is the Blue Lock hat. This adjustable hat is also made of 100% cotton and features the Blue Lock logo on the front. It's available in one size fits all and is perfect for keeping the sun out of your eyes during those hot summer days.

Last but not least is the Blue Lock mug. This ceramic mug holds 11 ounces of your favorite beverage and features the Blue Lock logo on both sides. It's microwave and dishwasher safe, so you can enjoy it for many years to come.

So there you have it, three great items from the official Blue Lock store. Show your support for the team by picking up one (or all) of these must-have items today!

The Top 10 Must-Have Items from the Blue Lock StoreThe Blue Lock T-Shirt: This shirt is a must-have for any fan of the Blue Lock anime. It features the anime's logo on the front, and is made of a comfortable cotton material.

The Blue Lock Hat: This hat is perfect for showing your support for the Blue Lock anime. It has the anime's logo embroidered on the front, and is made of a breathable material to keep you cool in summer weather.

The Blue Lock Hoodie: This hoodie is perfect for fans of the Blue Lock anime who want to show their support in style. It features the anime's logo on the front, and is made of a cozy cotton material.

The Blue Lock Mug: This mug is perfect for sipping your morning coffee or tea while watching the Blue Lock anime. It features the anime's logo on the front, and can hold up to 11 ounces of liquid.

The Blue Lock Mousepad: This mousepad is perfect for fans of the Blue Lock anime who use a computer mouse frequently. It features the anime's logo on the front, and has a smooth surface that makes it easy to use your mouse.

The Blue Lock Laptop Sleeve: This laptop sleeve is perfect for protecting your laptop while showing your support for the Blue Lock anime. It features the anime's logo on the front, and is made of a durable neoprene material that

How to Choose the Right Merchandise

If you're a Blue Lock fan, then you know that the show has some of the best merchandise around. But with so many great items to choose from, it can be tough to decide what to buy. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right merchandise for you:

Consider your budget. There's no need to break the bank when buying Blue Lock merchandise. There are plenty of affordable items available, so take your time and find something that's within your price range.

Think about what you'll use it for. Are you looking for something to wear to conventions or other events? Or do you just want a few items to display in your home? Knowing how you'll use your merchandise will help narrow down your choices.

Choose quality over quantity. It's better to have a few high-quality items that you love than a bunch of cheap stuff that you'll never use. When it comes to Blue Lock merchandise, there's no shortage of quality options available.

Pay attention to size and fit. If you're buying clothing, make sure to check the sizing chart before ordering. And if you're buying other items like posters or toys, be sure to pay attention to the dimensions so that you know they'll fit in your home or office space.

Read reviews before making your purchase. Checking out reviews from other fans can give you a good idea of what's worth buying and what isn

Benefits of Purchasing from the Official Blue Lock Store

As an official Blue Lock store, we offer a number of benefits to our customers. First and foremost, we offer a wide selection of Blue Lock merchandise that is not available anywhere else. We also offer exclusive discounts and promotions to our customers, as well as early access to new products and releases. In addition, we offer a loyalty program that rewards our customers for their continued support.

Best Practices for Buying from the Blue Lock Store

When it comes to buying from the Blue Lock store, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to get the best possible deal. First and foremost, always check for coupon codes and promotions before making a purchase. You can find these codes by following Blue Lock on social media or by signing up for their newsletter.

Another great way to save money is to take advantage of the free shipping offers that are often available. If you're planning on buying multiple items, look for a package deal that will give you a discount on your total order. Finally, be sure to inspect your items carefully when they arrive so that you can return or exchange anything that's not up to your standards.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Merchandise

Keep your merchandise in a cool, dry place.

Store your merchandise in a safe place where it won't be damaged or lost.

Inspect your merchandise regularly to ensure that it is in good condition.

If you have any questions about caring for your merchandise, please contact the Blue Lock customer service team for assistance.

Creative Ways to Show Off Your Blue Lock Fandom

As any true fan knows, showing off your fandom is more than just wearing a t-shirt with the logo of your favorite team. It's about showing your passion in creative and unique ways. And what better way to do that than with some of the great merchandise from the official Blue Lock store? Here are just a few of our favorites:

For the ultimate in Blue Lock gear, check out the Official Jersey. This piece is perfect for game days, or anytime you want to show your support for your team. Made from 100% polyester, it's breathable and comfortable, yet still looks stylish. And it comes in both men's and women's sizes so everyone can get in on the action.

If you're looking for something a little more subtle, but still want everyone to know where your allegiances lie, check out the Official Hat. This classic baseball cap features the Blue Lock logo embroidered on the front, so it's understated but still shows you're a diehard fan. It's also adjustable so one size fits all.

And finally, no fan's collection is complete without an Official T-Shirt. Whether you wear it to show your support on game day or just when you're hanging out with friends, this shirt is a must-have for any Blue Lock fan. It's made from 100% cotton for a soft and comfortable feel, and comes in both men's and women's sizes. So grab one (or all

Conclusion

With so many cool collector's items to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your must-haves from the Blue Lock official store. But with this list of top 10 items, you can make sure you get the best of what they offer. From apparel and accessories to collectible figures and memorabilia, there is something for everyone - no matter how big or small their fandom may be! So show your Blue Lock pride by picking up these must-have fan favorites today and let your inner fan shine through in style!Don't miss out on the chance to join the Blue Lock fan community - visit our website today at https://bluelock.store/.

[kicksaddictny]

adidas x IVY PARK Collection

Following the announcement of their industry-shifting global partnership in the spring of 2019, adidas and Beyoncé proudly introduce the first adidas x IVY PARK collection, available in stores and online January 18, 2020. Beyoncé, one of the most celebrated visionaries of our time, has united with adidas, to design a collection that combines fashion and storytelling in an unprecedented way. This unique relationship champions the values of inclusivity, community and diversity and will take consumers on an unconventional journey starting with this capsule collection for Spring '20. The partnership respects Beyoncé's ownership of IVY PARK, and continues her journey as one of the first black women to be the sole owner of an athleisure brand.

"It is a dream come true to re-launch IVY PARK as the sole owner," said Beyoncé. "My team has worked hard with the adidas team in bringing my vision to life for this first collection and I am grateful and proud. From the accessories to the clothes and footwear, I wanted to design and re-imagine pieces that serve as favorite armor for anyone who acknowledges the strength in their individual style and lives freely and boldly."

Featuring the first-ever release of IVY PARK footwear and a powerful array of stylish and functional performance gear that includes gender-neutral apparel and accessories, the launch capsule collection of adidas x IVY PARK celebrates power, freedom and individuality for anyone who has the confidence to take chances and live unapologetically.

The collection's color palette boasts the vivid colors of solar orange and maroon with cream that makes a statement as bold as the wearer. Styles illustrate a work ethic as relentless and innovative as that of its creator. Items are multi-purpose with layers built into several pieces that equip the wearer with the tools they need to be creative and get their work done, whether on the field, or on the street. Utilitarian jumpsuit, cargo pants and hoodie and cycling shorts reinforce the attitude. Asymmetry is seen in a dress and coat, and harness detailing appears throughout the collection, whether as straps on a sports bra, bag or backpack.

Complemented by four footwear styles, adidas x IVY PARK reinterprets iconic adidas classics with statement colors and a fresh design approach.

"adidas is the creator's brand and has always championed the creative mindset," said Torben Schumacher, General Manager adidas Originals and Style.  "With Beyoncé we have the shared goal of putting creativity at the forefront of everything we do to go beyond what we've done before and create something entirely new. The first adidas x IVY PARK collection unites the vision of Beyoncé with adidas' expertise and authenticity in sport and innovative design; the undeniable work ethic and steadfast point of view of Beyoncé shows through in every detail within the collection."

Historically, adidas has paved the way in collaborating with artists to bring their vision of design and style to life.  Beyoncé's proven ability to tell a story and entice the consumer to follow her to unchartered territories is best-in-class. With this specific collaboration, the brand pushes boundaries and explores unexpected lanes in partnering with one of the most impactful storytellers of the 21st century.

The collection is available starting January 18, 2020 online @adidas.com and in select stores. Items are currently available in sizes XS – XL.  Prices range from $25 for accessories to $250 for outerwear.

[blkvogue]

Women Hoodies

If, assuming that you want any help with styling yourself. Blkvogue is here to help you with every one of your prerequisites. You'll find all that you really want on our design force to be reckoned with site. Wear the coolest western patterns at a reasonable cost to enamor your environmental elements.

Blkvogue has rapidly laid down a good foundation for itself as Pakistan's best clothing and retail location. The western assortment is accessible for all kinds of people. Blkvogue has substantiated itself perceived as the best dress and women's hoodies and sweatshirts from one side of the planet to the other. We've at long last shown up in Pakistan with our relentless arrangements to guarantee that society can wear the brand that mirrors its freedom. Mindful of the persistently advancing examples while grounded in a bounty of Western inheritance. Blkvogue is your accomplice for a popular, energetic, ethnic storeroom. Find the most stylish trend patterns for people. Our last assortment included winter season 21. We have been guaranteeing to give the best quality from the start.

[letsdressupindia]

Money Heist Craze: Making its way in the Fashion Industry

Checked out the new episodes of Money Heist? Of course you have, I mean who hasn’t? It’s probably the most watched Netflix series as of now, leading the blockbuster charts in more than 20 countries. It’s one of those series where you can’t tell apart who’s the hero and who’s the villain, and that’s pure cinematic beauty. But, what actually sets the tone of this drama-rich series is its characters and suspense filled endings. And recently, winter wear inspired by Money Heist is trending due to the show’s unique impact on its audiences. Let’s have a look at some Money Heist inspired clothing from LetsDressUp.

Characters Inspired Clothing

All of the characters in Money Heist had something distinct about them, while Professor was the fatherly figure of the group and also the brains, Tokyo was that kid who kept getting involved in some or the other kind of mess. All of the characters in Money Heist evolved throughout the series. The character whom we thought of villains at one point became a part of The professor’s squad and gave relentless trouble to the authorities. Like Alicia Sierra, who was ready to take out the gang leader (the professor) and almost did too, but later went on to join the Professor’s gang. Money Heist was one of those series where you can’t tell apart the villain from the hero and vice versa. Money Heist inspired clothing, especially clothes based on characters from Money Heist are taking the market by storm. And if you don’t believe me you can check what’s trending. LetsDressUp, is one of India’s only organizations that has launched a Money Heist character inspired clothing line up. There are hoodies, T-shirts and even Co-ord sets inspired from our beloved characters from Money Heist. Head over to their website to grab yours now.

Scene Inspired Clothing

Trust me, there were many iconic scenes in Money Heist that left us in awe. Be it Tokyo’s tragic death at the end of Part 5, or the cast’s iconic face reveal. Such scenes have been brought back to real life by Money Heist Inspired clothing released by LetsDressUp. They have several hoodies, where you’ll find scenes from the blockbuster Netflix series Money Heist, brought back to life. It doesn’t matter if you’re the ultimate fan of Money Heist or not, once you see their collection you won’t be able to say no to those in-trend and stylish hoodies. Head over to LetsDressUp and treat yourself or your loved ones this holiday season with a Money Heist hoodie.

Famous Excerpts from Money Heist

The iconic song “Bella Ciao '' and the spanish phrase “La Casa De Papel” have also made it to Let's Dress Up’s unique Money Heist Inspired clothing. There are so many instances in the series where the entire cast vibes to the mellow vibes of the song “Bella Ciao” and anyone who has watched the series has heard that song at least a hundred times. If you’re someone who likes to stay in trend, then these are the hoodies for you. It’s widely grossing and every famous influencer adorns them.

How to Style it?

The Money Heist inspired clothing from LetsDressUp can be styled with almost anything. Whether you want to step out for grabbing groceries or are heading out for a party.

For Co-ords

You actually don’t need to pair it with anything, because it comes as a set. All you need is a good pair of sneakers to head out and a good woolen cap if it’s getting chilly outside. Perfect outfit for your late night Netflix binging. It is that athleisure wear which keeps you comfy and comfortable yet classy and trendy.

For Hoodies

If you’re heading out for a party, it’s best to pair it with a smart skirt or a good pair of pants. If you’re just casually heading out for grabbing groceries or some midnight snacks, then a pair of comfortable pyjamas will also do.

T-Shirts

Although it’s best if you wear them in summers, you can also wear them during the winters. Just pair it with a nice Jacket and you’re good to go. 

[szasosmerch12]

Jordan clothes

Jordan Clothes: Unleash the Power of Air Jordans Clothing

In the world of fashion, few names resonate as profoundly as Jordan. From the iconic Air Jordans to the latest Jordan outfits, this brand has been synonymous with excellence, innovation, and style. Whether you're hitting the court or the streets, adorning yourself in Jordan clothes isn't just about fashion—it's about making a statement, embodying a legacy, and elevating your style to new heights.

Unveiling the Essence of Jordan Clothes

At the heart of Jordan clothes lies a legacy of greatness. Inspired by one of the most legendary basketball players of all time, Jordan clothing transcends mere fashion; it encapsulates a mindset of determination, excellence, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Every stitch, every design element, speaks volumes about the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful.

The Iconic Air Jordans Clothing Line

No discussion about Jordan clothes is complete without mentioning the iconic Air Jordans clothing line. Introduced in 1984 by Nike, Air Jordans revolutionized the sneaker industry and transcended the realm of sports to become a global cultural phenomenon. With their innovative designs, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort, Air Jordans aren't just shoes—they're a lifestyle. From the timeless classics like the Air Jordan 1 to the latest iterations featuring groundbreaking innovations, each pair tells a story of athleticism, style, and innovation.

Crafting Your Perfect Jordan Outfit

Creating the perfect Jordan outfit is an art form—a reflection of your personality, style, and attitude. Whether you're going for a casual streetwear look or aiming to make a bold statement on the court, the key lies in understanding how to mix and match different pieces to achieve the desired effect. From iconic Jordan sneakers to stylish apparel like hoodies, tees, and track pants, the possibilities are endless. Embrace bold colors, striking patterns, and attention-grabbing accessories to truly make your Jordan outfit stand out from the crowd.

Embracing the Jordan Lifestyle

Beyond just clothing and footwear, embracing the Jordan lifestyle is about embodying a mindset of excellence, perseverance, and self-belief. It's about pushing past your limits, chasing your dreams, and never settling for anything less than greatness. Whether you're an athlete, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates quality and style, Jordan clothes offer more than just garments—they offer a gateway to a world of endless possibilities and unmatched inspiration.

Conclusion: Make Your Mark with Jordan Clothes

In conclusion, Jordan clothes represent more than just a fashion statement; they embody a legacy of excellence, innovation, and style. From the iconic Air Jordans to the latest Jordan outfits, each piece is a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful. So why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your style with Jordan? Step into greatness, unleash your potential, and make your mark with Jordan clothes.

[teachanarchy]

At the photo shoot, the accoutrements of being her precede her. A tray of acrylic nails and an almost-empty bottle of professional-grade nail polish remover are carried by Bernadette Thompson, the Takashi Murakami of manicurists. A tall, strong-looking man walks around distractedly, wheeling a Louis Vuitton duffel bag that is smaller than his forearm; from time to time, he spins it in a wide circle out of boredom. Jewels—gold chokers, hoop earrings, and rings in a velvet-lined box—are attended to by a thin young man wearing a black Balenciaga fitted cap and high-top Nikes. There's a bottle of jewelry cleaner harnessed to his chest and a chain of styling clips attached to his hoodie strings; he looks listless, like he has given his body over to the task. On the table, someone has set down two Kangol hats, one tan, one black: fuzzy, wearable homages to the golden era of hip-hop. They sit there like low-key crowns.

I take a seat out of sight, behind Misa Hylton, the stylist who is the reason people let their pants sag and their Calvins show. Dressed like a ballet dancer from Brixton—or is it Ginza—in a baggy gray sweatshirt and a sheer, tutu-ish white skirt, she sucks on a lollipop, not saying much but taking everything in. When Missy Elliott needs help pulling off her shoe, Misa rushes in to steady her. I recognize the intimacy of it; it's like having your mother or your sister oil your hair. They share a joke; Missy laughs. Misa walks back to her seat, and because they seemed so comfortable, others start to crowd around to look. I still can't see anything from my seat, but I can hear Missy ask something so softly that it has to be repeated and shouted back: "Everybody move back and give her some privacy. Please." Then a large white scrim is stretched out that totally eclipses her from our view. And she turns into a silhouette behind the screen.

What does it mean to be a shy black woman performer in a world where black women are never thought to be shy? Before I went to meet her, I had read articles that decided it just wasn't possible that Missy Elliott is shy. The Guardian wrote that "scary diva is what you expect"; they do not explain why they expected her to be scary, they just say it. In the same way that no one explains what I should expect when I'm told over and over again that Missy Elliott is very shy, without anyone offering a larger understanding of what it might mean. Would she need to be coaxed to open up? Would she not answer my questions? At the shoot, the photographer yells out to her: "Don't be shy—I love it! Let's turn the music up."

Although I got the sense that others were fretful about how this "shyness" would manifest itself in our conversation, after I watched videos of her performing in concert, I was not.

What no one seems to realize is that Missy, like most shy black girls, had long ago been forced to master a certain skill: to hammer down her shyness, along with any fear, to some low, unseen place deep inside of herself, and keep it there until she could step over it, again, again, again.

From the moment I walked on the set, I assumed that Missy Elliott was someone who had this skill, that her ability to rise was ingrained, and I wasn't there for long before we are all watching just that: Missy the Performer—exuberant, high-stepping, arms up in the air, roof-raising, and hair whipping—taking over the monitors and smiling like a woman who has released five platinum albums, possesses four Grammys, and has sold 30 million records and knows very well how to overcome being called scary or feeling shy.

When Missy Elliott dropped her debut album exactly 20 years ago, she altered the spectrum and the range of hip-hop. She made it wild and hyperdimensional. Suddenly, we could all see and hear more. The first rap album I ever purchased was Supa Dupa Fly. And the most important video in the story of my life is "The Rain." On "The Rain," she raps about what still sounds like a perfect day: some light precipitation that clears, smoking some weed, driving to the beach, and dumping an undeserving man. It's a simple enough narrative, but she made it sound strange and wonderful. This was what hip-hop would sound like if it were conceived inside of the calyx of an African violet, unfurling and wet.

I remember seeing that video for the first time in Atlanta at my cousin's one summer in 1997. I was 16. We didn't have cable at our house, so my sister and I stood in his basement and stared at the screen as a woman in a bubble suit that seemed to be filled with equal parts helium and black cool wobbled and bopped. These were lyrics we got intuitively even though we usually didn't understand a word. The vertiginous beats, the cacophony of thunderclaps, and her movements—both fluid and staccato—put me on the floor. I lay there, sweating in that Southern humidity, wondering what I had just seen.

I spent those first early summer weeks in Atlanta fucking up the norms of my cousin's neighborhood, a place where the social codes seemed to be as thick and intricate as in Downton Abbey or any E. M. Forster novel, but with sweet tea and beepers. I was greedy to fit in and also aware I never would. We had been there for two weeks when I saw her, sitting on her "Hill's like Lauryn / Until the rain starts, comin' down, pourin'." Years later, she would put it all into words and boast, "For those of you who hated / You only made us more creative." The double entendres, the hair flipping, the irreverent eye rolls, the smirks, the wink, and the symbolic power of putting on an ink-colored balloon suit and becoming blacker, larger, lovelier, and gigantic with daring weren't lost on me.

Pharrell Williams, who has known and worked with Missy for almost 25 years, calls me on her behalf one Sunday afternoon. He talks about her properly, like she is a sonic theory, a leader, and a woman he adores as a creative liberator. "We came up in a time where we were always told no. Where we were always placed in a box. And she defied it. Over and over again. She defied the physics that were dictated to us. She ignored the gravity of standards and prejudices and stereotypes. She ignored that gravity."

Denim vest, R13, $695, visit r13denim.com. Modal and cotton top, AllSaints, $100. Denim jeans, DSquared2, $755. Wool and leather kepi hat, from Kaufman's Army & Navy, $200. Silver hoop earrings, Lynn Ban, $700. White gold and diamond hand-piece, Yeprem. Embellished python leather platforms, Marc Jacobs, $6,500. Styled by Samira Nasr. Mark Seliger

Missy Elliott is in constant metamorphosis, but there is still something about her that feels like your homegirl—if your homegirl had a fleet of cars that include a Rolls-Royce, two Lamborghinis, a Porsche 911, a Ferrari 599, an Aston Martin Vanquish, a Spyker, a Range Rover, an Escalade, and a Jeep Cherokee that she says she prefers over all of them. Missy owns enough houses to start a small village (she splits her time between Florida, Virginia, New Jersey, and Los Angeles), but she tells me that she just feels lucky not to have to pay rent and to be financially secure. These are the rewards of being a 45-year-old humble rapper who is still very much in demand at a time when other rappers her age are trending down.

But what makes her iconic is not the numbers; it is what she empowers in others. Missy was always aware of her worth, her real worth—not the fluff or the proxies for currency and confidence that most people depend on. She always expressed what so many of us feel on the inside but have no model for how to display. Her refusal to discuss her personal life has allowed her to deftly deflect any inquiries about her real life toward her surreal life: The one she inhabits with her many costumes and her various personalities. In almost every video, Missy Elliott is a different character (a black Barbie in "Beep Me 911"; a floss-fluorescent, bald-headed creature in "She's a Bitch"; a black Beatrix Kiddo at war with a rival gang that's driving the Pussy Wagon in "I'm Really Hot"). This is the stuff that makes her Missy Elliott, the legend. It is a demand for privacy, but also a sign of wisdom. She's kept our eyes on the prize. She seemed to know early on that the only thing that matters is the work, and it can look fun. But ultimately, the relentlessness and the far-reachingness of it are what have kept her in orbit.

Missy Elliott is a creator's creator. They say that, before he died, Michael Jackson asked her to teach him how to rap. The Dirty Projectors work below a triptych of the people they consider to be the all-time greats: Joni Mitchell, Missy Elliott, and Beethoven. Tyler, the Creator once told GQ that in his mind, alongside Elizabeth Taylor, Missy Elliott was one of the most stylish women ever to exist. "I'm not even talking about her normal dressing. Just the swag that she had in her videos. She made a fucking plastic bag look awesome," he said. Björk, Herbie Hancock, Debbie Harry, Lil Wayne, and Solange Knowles cite her as an inspiration. And Patti LaBelle has thanked her for bringing R&B back. "Missy's so amazing," Thom Yorke of Radiohead once said, that "she makes me want to spit."

While other rappers were adversarial, making you feel broke, or uncool, or backed up against despair, Missy was inviting us to join her party. Others insulted us for listening, told us about what we didn't have, didn't own, and couldn't brag about, whereas Missy said, Forget who you are, forget what you heard, and come dance with me. In Missy Elliott's songs, bodies jiggle, jangle, they sweat, they drip, they drop, they are invested in the beat. In the early eighties, Michael Jackson gave an interview in which he told the interviewer that above all, he liked "to really forget." What feels good about Missy's music is that for four or six minutes, your body is helmed by her control of the beat; you can "really forget" your own life because there is so much to pay attention to in hers. In the "Pass That Dutch" video, she runs through a primer of black footwork in a cornfield while instructing us to work our legs. In "Lose Control," she samples an old electro song by Cybotron, turning things frenetic, until they sound double-timed and fast enough to fly off the handle. In "Slide," a track that feels enormous, a booming cut-time march, she uses a simple rhyme scheme and her background vocals to remind us to work the waist and keep it slippery. "Slide, slide, dip, shake / Move it all around," she purrs. Missy raps from within the rhythm—she doesn't work against it or with it, she doesn't ride it, she becomes it. Words zigzag and stretch to match time signatures. She can speed them up and slow them down; she organizes her harmonies like string sections; and if she can't do it alone, she'll invite someone else—Ludacris, Jay Z, or Tweet—to join her.

What I realized when Missy and I finally sat down to talk is that Missy is communal and sentimental in a way that hip-hop at times denies itself. She tells me about a last-minute sleepover party that she had with Mary J. Blige, Queen Latifah, Misa Hylton, and Lil' Kim in Virginia for her birthday a few years ago. It touched her that they could be "real friends, not just friends for the camera." She seems far too delicate to be asked about Aaliyah, the singer who died in a plane crash in 2001, who was her best friend, collaborator, and "little sister." Missy mourns and pours visual libation to Aaliyah in most of her videos and many of her songs.

Missy Elliott's work doesn't deny death, or poverty, or bad times, but it pushes for recovery. In her most recent single, "I'm Better (feat. Lamb)," which was released in January, the chorus circles around and gets repeated with a robotic flow: "I'm better, I'm better, I'm better / It's another day, another chance / I wake up, I wanna dance / So as long as I got my friends /...I'm better, I'm better, I'm better." This is not a boast from her to her fans; it is a mantra to them from her, even if there is a self-help quality to it. What matters more is that it feels determined, and that is what her fans depend on her to provide—the good news.

She was born in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Patricia, a dispatcher for the power company, and Ronnie Elliott, a former Marine. She was their only child, and her parents named her Melissa Arnette Elliott. Missy told me that when the other kids in her class were asked what they wanted to be, they changed their minds every other week. "It would come to me, and I would be like, 'I'm going to be a superstar!' And the whole class would bust out laughing. But every Friday I would say the same thing. And I would watch them change to different things. Now the doctor is going to be a fireman, but still, when it came to me, I wanted to be a superstar. They thought I was the class clown. But I was like, 'I'm going to be a superstar.' So when I would get in my room, it was like, if y'all don't see it, I'm going to create it myself."

The black sculptor Augusta Savage once said of her father that she believed his violence was the result of him trying to whip the "art out of her." The expression of her artistry, her voice being utilized outside of him, was an affront to his masculinity. So he beat her and tried to break her down. Missy's father beat her mother almost every single day. He dislocated her arms; he berated her. He hit Missy only once, but the violence and instability in her life were relentless. She was eight when an older boy, a family member, saw her vulnerability and preyed upon it—he began molesting her in the afternoons.

Viscose-blend jumpsuit, Versus Versace, $1,295, visit versace.com. Rabbit-fur bucket hat, Stephen Jones for Marc Jacobs, $545. Sunglasses, Saint Laurent, $490. Silver hoop earrings, Lynn Ban, $700. Styled by Samira Nasr. Mark Seliger

Unable to stop her father, put off her molester, or save her mother, Missy shut her door. She turned her room into something that she describes as her Wonderland. This was where she would write fan letters to her favorite singers, the Jacksons, with the unexpressed hope that they would appear, see how musically gifted she was, and come to her rescue. The Hype Williams–directed videos that would define her sensibilities decades later were conceived in spirit in this workshop. Here, she practiced singing along to the radio or to the records her family gave her. And before each performance, she twisted her doll babies' arms up, so they were frozen, forever applauding her.

There are two ways to look at a story like Missy Elliott's. The first is within the context of that little girl now. All grown up, in her mid-forties, talking with me while wearing four diamonds in her ears that are bigger than my eyes. This is the woman who will tell you matter-of-factly, "I believe that I spoke it all into existence," and can explain year by year how she actualized her vision, but gives glory to God that she did. The other way to see this enormous dream is as one that was steeped both in pragmatism and what could not be helped: fate.

Although she does not call it this, Missy Elliott believes in the technology of the self, the idea that we can alter our lives by what we create and transmute, and in doing so, we can become invincible. For her, black innovation, black America's ability to overcome all odds and create, are a kind of passed-along technology. "We are survivors, and once we know that, we are unstoppable," she tells me one evening, as the sun makes it look like there are long, Dalí-like threads attached to her sequined sneakers. "I always said I wouldn't be no other color, because if there's one thing about us, we never really had, but we know how to—we know how to survive."

Missy survived abject poverty and years of abuse by tucking herself into sound. She was young, but when she listened to music, she found it impossible to be casual about it. Instead, she immersed herself in the process; she became the song's student. From her father, she learned to listen to the Temptations and Marvin Gaye. "I remember when 'Sexual Healing' came out. It made me listen to a record like that and think of how to do records like 'Pussy don't fail me now,' " she said, quoting her song "Pussycat." "I was trying to find creative ways of doing stuff.… And my mother had the gospel side, where I sat and studied their harmonies."

When she wasn't studying, she practiced. Missy Elliott had no Joe Jackson. She was no man's babe in the woods. She was self-actualized, self-realized, self-taught. There was no father to her style, but she had many mothers and sisters: Queen Latifah, Donna Summer, and Grace Jones. By the time she reached high school, Missy had started cutting class to invite friends over to rehearse in her living room, and her once-high grades plummeted. All of this alarmed her mother, who'd packed up a moving truck after her father had left for work one day; the two were living on their own. Her mother knew Missy was intelligent and just wanted her daughter to do the right thing, not realizing yet that for her daughter, music wasn't a sign of delinquency, but her path toward the only future she could envision for herself.

We were discussing her rocky years in school, during which she was identified by her school district as having both a "genius" IQ and being in extreme danger of failing every subject, when Missy asked me if I had ever heard of Poe.

"You know Poe?" she asked me, with an urgency that caught me off guard. "The Raven?" she added, smiling to conceal her slight impatience.

"Edgar Allan Poe?" I asked.

"Yes, so I studied, locked down—cause I knew I could do it…and when I had to do The Raven, I turned it into a rap, had one of my friends beatbox. I turned it into a rap! Got an A!"

"Are you big poetry person?" I asked her, since hip-hop is black America's repurposing of the poem.

"Uh, well… I wouldn't say that necessarily," she said, laughing. Then she stopped to think, and she got reflective. "You know, maybe I did like it. Because I murked that. I murked that."

It was around then, in high school, when her friend Magoo connected her with Timbaland and Pharrell Williams. Timbaland, she said, "had a little Yamaha keyboard, and Tim's hands are humongous. He was able to take the claps, the little dog sounds, and make beats with it. Then I just started rapping and singing over him playing with the Yamaha. Tim was very quiet. Pharrell was way on planet Mars. And, you know, I was just whatever. I was kind of crazy. But for whatever reason, we all understood each other."

The geography of Virginia—Southern, hanging off the edge of the East Coast—also inadvertently fortified their sound. They had very little access to what was trending, and it set them free to experiment and make music from what they had. "We got everything so late," she recalled, "it also allowed us to be different because we didn't hear. I will never forget when I first met Pharrell, even being from Virginia, he always was so different. I remember him coming into the studio, and he had some jeans on, and he had the cuffs where they came all the way up to his knees! And I had never seen cuffs that big in my life! And I was like, 'What part of Virginia he from?' "

At the time, Pharrell and Timbaland were in a group called Surrounded by Idiots, and Missy had an all-female rap group called Fayze. When Fayze found themselves in contact with the road manager for Jodeci, who at the time were the biggest force in R&B music, Missy devised an elaborate plan to audition for the group in outfits that matched the ones that Jodeci was famous for. Missy had never performed for anyone this famous before, but she knew what people like James Brown and Tina Turner had done. She took that workhorse approach and told the other girls, "I will need y'all to kick a leg up and put that cane on the floor!" It worked: Fayze soon had a record deal and an invitation to join Jodeci at their house in New Jersey.

Alice Walker once asked in her essay "In Search of Our Mothers' Gardens": "How was the creativity of the black woman kept alive, year after year and century after century, when for most of the years black people have been in America, it was a punishable crime for a black person to read or write?" Imagine the discouragement, the slights, and the drudgery that were directed toward these women when they, too, contained art. "Listen to the voices of Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Roberta Flack, and Aretha Franklin, among others, and imagine those voices muzzled for life." Because so many of them couldn't express themselves, "our mothers and grandmothers have, more often than not anonymously, handed on the creative spark, the seed of the flower they themselves never hoped to see: or like a sealed letter they could not plainly read." When she was little, Missy's mother had been offered a chance to tour the world singing gospel music, but Missy told me that when her mother saw her daughter in the window crying, she put her bags down and walked back in. When Missy walked out the door of her mother's house in 1991 and drove away from Portsmouth, she was doing what her mother could not. She has what Walker described as "the living creativity some of our great-grandmothers knew, even without 'knowing' it." And like those women, but with the dream of performing on bigger stages, Missy Elliott "never had any intention of giving it up."

When Katy Perry asked her to appear for exactly 2.5 minutes in the middle of Perry's set at the 2015 Super Bowl, it was Missy's first big appearance in years. Missy hadn't released an album since 2006. She's said that backstage, having had a panic attack that required medical care the night before, she swore to herself, "If I can get over this [first] step, then I know all my dance steps will be on point." Twenty-four hours later, "Get Ur Freak On," "Work It," and "Lose Control" would be downloaded about 20,000 times each, taking turns hitting the number one spot for downloads on iTunes.

Missy Elliott's mind thinks in bloom, and ideas emerge like buds pushing up from the ground. The Super Bowl story prompts her to tell me that typically she would be most comfortable having this conversation sitting on the floor.

To stay grounded?

"Yes, to stay humble."

Or maybe to remember that this adulation was not always there. The first big song she wrote was for Raven-Symoné in 1993, but when it came time to shoot the video for "That's What Little Girls Are Made Of," for which she rapped a verse, she didn't even receive a call about it. In the video, a thin, light-skinned model who has swallowed Missy's voice raps along with Raven. The rejection was so painful that Missy gave up on trying to be a star and devoted herself to songwriting. Three years later, she and Timbaland would write and produce the majority of Aaliyah's classic album One in a Million. When the record labels circled back around, this time they understood: They were signing someone who wanted her own imprint, with complete creative control over her music and the ability to freely write and produce for others. Missy Elliott was 24 when she got what she wanted from Sylvia Rhone, the CEO of Elektra Entertainment Group at the time, and she called it her new record label Goldmind Inc.

There is an early New Yorker profile of Missy that once referred to her look in "The Rain" as being that of a "cyber mammy." But Missy has never served or played servant to anyone in her life. There is nothing about Missy now, or then, that could belong in anything but a prosperous, liberated future. She even sings in "Work It": "Picture blacks saying yes sir, master? No!" A mammy as a trope was never a self-defined, self-articulating, sexualized woman. We knew nothing of her pleasure. If anything, the trash-bag suit in "The Rain" was about taking it all with you—the rarely spoken-about black woman's pleasure principle. (And who has written more songs about being sexually satisfied and self-satisfying than Missy Elliott?) The knowledge that you are beautiful. It is having been denied, and returning tender, exuberant, monumental, and hyperdimensional. "To me," Missy explained a few days after our first conversation, "the outfit was a way to mask my shyness behind all the chaos of the look. Although I am shy, I was never afraid to be a provocative woman. The outfit was a symbol of power. I loved the idea of feeling like a hip-hop Michelin woman. I knew I could have on a blow-up suit and still have people talking. It was bold and different. I've always seen myself as an innovator and a creative unlike any other."

What is off-putting about some of the interpretations of Missy Elliott's style is that they apply a retrograde framework to a woman who is so firmly from the future. And in doing so, they put undue, incorrect emphasis on her body, and assume things that tell us nothing about her and everything about the erasures that occur to women like her. In the late 2000s, she began to feel ill and suffer dizzy spells and unexplained weight loss. This played a large part in her taking time off. She was diagnosed with the thyroid condition Graves' disease, but when she did an interview with a New York radio station and tried to explain her condition, the host described her weight loss as the upside of her getting sick. To be a woman is to know that your flesh can matter more than your brilliance.

Double-face cashmere track jacket, Marc Jacobs, $3,425, visit marcjacobs .com. Wool and cashmere hat, Stephen Jones for Marc Jacobs, $599. Brass earrings, Jennifer Fisher, $275. Styled by Samira Nasr. Mark Seliger

All world-building is an act of construction that requires real effort and no shortcuts. Perhaps because producing necessitates a specialized understanding of music, Missy the Producer doesn't get as much play as Missy the Performer. Both are solidifying elements of her autonomy, but the former guarantees her ability to be the architect of her own sound. Because it's a science to produce—it's a kind of alchemy to sit in a studio and bring forth music from nothing—women are discouraged from doing it. They are ignored when they master it, and, like any other science, they are underrepresented among those who are thought to be the best at it.

There is an interview that Björk did years ago for French television in which she describes the stress of being a woman and containing a certain rare level of musicality. "When somebody comes to make great music, I feel like I have less work to do," she confessed. "When Missy Elliott or, like, Peaches arrives with something good, I would be like, yes! It means I can do other things. Maybe I don't have to worry or stress about rhythmic music anymore because they are taking care of that." Young women are regularly taught how our bodies can be of service or put to work toward the desires of others, but rarely are we instructed how to be in charge of our art. "I remember," Björk has said, "seeing a photo of Missy Elliott at the mixing desk in the studio and being like, aha!" That Missy can draw all of the music out of herself, and work the board, write the music, and execute her ideas often goes undiscussed, but it makes her an aberration and a lighthouse. "When I was a kid, I wrote raps and I wanted to sound just like Missy," Syd, the lead singer of the R&B group the Internet, texts me one morning. A Grammy-nominated polymath, Syd sings, writes, produces, and engineers the majority of her music (and for years did so for her band, Odd Future). And like so many young black women in music, she knows she is a direct descendant of Missy Elliott's quiet revolution in the studio. "But I was even more inspired by her when I got older and learned how much other music she had written and produced. She is definitely one of my biggest role models in music. She's a genius…and her attitude shines through."

Missy Elliott has written more than 500 songs, produced music for Ciara, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, and taken just three vacations in her entire lifetime. She has written gospel songs that seem ready to break all the stained glass in the chapel with their high notes and full harmonies, and she has written a song where she implores her "pussycat" not to fail her. In her "Sock It 2 Me" video, she became the black woman who promised a new generation, just like Uhura did in Star Trek, that not only would we survive the new millennium and be found in the farthest reaches of the galaxy, we would be there fighting aliens in Teflon spacesuits, cracking up with our girls, smacking our gum, and looking good while doing it.

In her videos, Missy Elliott taught us how to move to her sound, to bop, to bounce along with her. "Missy was making films, you know? She was making three-minute films, working with the best technology at the time, and she still does, by the way," Pharrell explains. "And it felt like there were no bounds to what she could do, and she continued to teach people over and over again, you can do this, you can do that." And we learned to enjoy watching her. "I know my dances are going to be the puzzle," she says, "so even if you thought it was weird, I put the visual in your face so now you see how you're supposed to move to it." What she did with her body is move it as a dancer and performer. And her moves seem natural, like you could try it and not make a fool of yourself. But really she is possessed of a very singular ability as a choreographer: She knows how to put us all on the moon to dance with her without self-concern or a care in the world, and that is what only the greatest pop artists have done.

What is disarming about her in person is that all of these parts fit and feel rooted. She is a businesswoman, a flashy rapper, but she has a songwriter's need for solitude that brings to mind the moods of Kate Bush, Laura Lee, Sade, and Laura Nyro. The need to retreat and go deep and remain exceedingly private. "I'm probably like the lamest but still sauciest artist out there," Missy says. "I don't know how that works, where you cannot do nothing and still be saucy, but my friends, they always tell me when they come to the house, 'Ohh, you don't need to be an introvert' and 'Dude, you gotta get out, like you don't do nothing but just sit in the studio.' But you know, for me, I find comfort in that for whatever reason. It's, like, therapeutic for me."

Until it flooded, Missy spent a great deal of time at her mountain house near the Poconos, where bears would wander into her front yard and, because she was alone, she would have to wait until they wandered off to go outside. She tells me she likes to drive her cars and listen to old soul music.

She has worked with Timbaland since she was a teenager, but even he has never been in the studio with her when she records. "I'm private about recording, because it allows me to be myself and not have to worry. The energy has to be right for me, if I'm in that booth and somebody's energy is off and not really, like, moving their head or something, it may make me start to doubt what I'm doing. You gotta be careful in the energies that you let come in the room, because it will begin to make you doubt and fear and not want to take that risk."

"We been quiet too long lady-like very patient," she says in an interlude on her 2002 album, Under Construction. And there is a moment in her VH1 Behind the Music special where Missy's mother cringes. She is discussing Missy's decision to reveal the sexual abuse and violence that barbed itself around her childhood. "When Missy went open about the abuse," her mother says, "I was like, This is our secret; you don't tell the world what happened." Her mother was not being malicious. She was just afraid for her daughter. For many years, her mother lived with her in her house in Virginia; they are very close. But this is a generational reminder, a well-worn mode of discretion that most black girls hear at some point in their lives. It comes in many forms, a whisper in your ear to always keep your panties clean so if you are killed in an accident they will know you aren't a dirty woman, a curt warning not to tell your business in the street—these silences, this keeping it quiet, are supposed to let the world know who we are. I realized that what Missy had done on a very basic level is decide that those good intentions—meant to beckon us toward being flatter than we are, quieter than we are—wouldn't work for her as a rapper or a songwriter.

In 1983, Octavia E. Butler, the first major black woman science fiction writer, published a story, "Speech Sounds," that imagines a world where almost everyone has lost their voice, and because of that they no longer remember how language works. One of the few exceptions is a woman named Rye, and as the story progresses, she comes to realize that even though is it dangerous to speak, she has to, and she has to help the children who have been left behind, who like her are still trying to form words and express themselves under such perilous conditions.

On Missy's 2015 song "WTF (Where They From)," there is a sample of a young girl speaking. The voice belongs to Rachel Jeantel, the friend of Trayvon Martin who was on the phone with him when he was murdered. Missy doesn't bring this up, I do. She goes almost mute when I say that by sampling Jeantel's voice, Pharrell and she have done a remarkable thing that has reversed what usually happens to the words of girls who look like Rachel Jeantel. They have preserved them for the record, credited her for her voice and her words, and made sure she got paid. The witness becomes the writer. From the test comes the testimony.

And so a shy girl rises to the occasion, to speak, to write, and she becomes herself—because who else is going to explain why it is imperative that women don't put up with lousy lovers, or show us that we can wear sneaks every single day and still desire to get those nails done every other day? (Her nail tech, Bernadette, tells me: When it comes to glam, Missy is the most feminine artist of all time.) Missy is a multiplatinum artist who views Andre 3000 and Erykah Badu as her creative peers; she is an icon who likes to sit on the floor. This is what she does best: convince others that all of this is contained inside of her, while still finding a way to remain herself.

Across the street from the photo studio, the Chelsea Piers are turning themselves over to the night. And Missy's publicist and team are in a hurry to make sure I'm not taking up too much of her time, but Missy herself doesn't seem rushed to go anywhere yet. If anything, she seems deliberate. She sips through a straw from a cup of fresh-squeezed juice, and then she holds the cup with both hands. Her baseball cap is cocked to the side, and her two-inch nails are painted iridescent blue. Her legs are open but locked at the ankle. She looks in command—even more so because she is smiling.

I want to know more about her absences from the spotlight. What is it like to re-enter a world where Twitter can determine who becomes president, where music can feel like it was created to last for exactly for one minute and then disappear into the ether?

Yeah, it is a brave new world, she agrees. But she isn't despondent. Not at all.

"One thing I won't do is compromise." She takes another sip of juice and thinks for a moment. "I will never do something based on what everybody else is telling me to do. And have to kick myself in the ass every night," she says, drawing her head back and shaking it.

"Nah. I have to make sure that it's right," she continues. "I've been through so many stumbling blocks to build a legacy, so I wouldn't want to do something just to fit in. Because I never fit in. So…."

I wait for her to finish her sentence, but she doesn't. Her smile just grows into a laugh, a shy one, and then she shrugs. As if to say, Take it or leave it, love me or leave me.

It's a blueswoman's confidence, the realest shrug in the world, a gesture that comes from knowing full well that most of us made our choice about her a long time ago.

[thechicdaily]

By: Megan Barbera

New Years Eve in Arizona brings a variety of events and a lot of opportunities to show off the best of your wardrobe.

Hitting the streets of Phoenix will give you a widespread list of things to do including a flannel themed New Years bash at Roosevelt Row and a block party at the Crescent Ballroom.

For those who want to dance the night away, Relentless Beats will be offering multiple nights filled with music and partying, including the anticipated Decadence Arizona featuring sets from the likes of Skrillex and San Holo.

Typical New Years outfits include an abundance of sparkles and gold, and while those looks will always be classic, I wanted to put together a set of fun outfits that are a change from the usual NYE get-up, and perfect for the events happening in AZ.

All Black Everything

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There is something timeless and edgy about an all black outfit, and believe it or not, it works for New Years. Relentless Beats will be putting on a New Years Pre-Party and all-black is a perfect choice for a more laid-back outfit before the New Years outfit craze begins. I took an oversized black hoodie and paired it with black sheer tights for an effortlessly edgy look. Pair it with cool sunglasses and boots or sneakers for a total cool gal look.

Just Add Fur (Faux of course!)

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Faux fur is the new sparkle for NYE! As the clock ticks to midnight and temperatures cool down as the night progresses, this trend is quite practical for NYE. This outfit consists of an oversized thrifted faux fur coat over a bralette and sheer tights. The cheetah beret adds a fun twist, and I added Doc Martins for ultimate comfort.

This alternative outfit is perfect for the Ruby Courtyard Stage at Decadence AZ, which will feature some incredible AZ local talent. It is fun, warm and comfy, the three essentials for a cool festival night!

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This outfit is rave-ready for Decadence AZ! I paired black fringe shorts with sheer tights and a green bralette to match the multicolored bucket hat. The grey fur jacket from Target is a cozy choice to pull the outfit together, and the Doc Martins have me ready to dance the night away!

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Black and cheetah print is an underrated combination, and is perfect for a night of dancing the year away! I again chose my fringe shorts and cheetah beret for a take on rave fashion, and paired a velvet hoodie with velvet boots for a fun multi-textured look.

You can always add glasses and a bandana to make it festival ready!

The fun doesn’t stop at midnight!

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Relentless Beats will be putting on an afterparty after Decadence AZ, and if you want to change out of the festival vibe, this look is perfect for both an afterparty or a post-night-out brunch. I paired joggers from the men’s section of Forever 21 with a thrifted oversized denim button-down. Add your coolest sneakers and a bucket hat for a chill and relaxed look.

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Why not start 2019 off with a multi-patterned look? This outfit is perfect for a day out in the city celebrating the New Year. I paired a basic black dress with a checkered jacket from Forever 21, and of course, my cheetah beret. Add sheer tights and booties for a stylish step into the new year!

The Chic Daily will be covering all the New Years festival fashion at Decadence AZ, so be sure to check out our Instagram story on Dec. 30th and 31st!

What will you be wearing for New Years? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter!

Reach the writer on Instagram and Twitter!

An alternative NYE lookbook By: Megan Barbera New Years Eve in Arizona brings a variety of events and a lot of opportunities to show off the best of your wardrobe.