#Top Residence Interior Designers

[thenordsarchitect]

Top Living Room Interiors in Bhubaneswar

The Nords Architect in Bhubaneswar crafts top living room interiors that exude elegance and sophistication. From luxurious furnishings to innovative lighting solutions, The Nords Architect creates inviting spaces that redefine comfort and style. They are known for their professional approach, delivering exceptional results tailored to meet each client's unique preferences and lifestyle. For a living room that reflects your personality and resonates with timeless charm, The Nords Architect in Bhubaneswar is the go-to choice. For more details, kindly visit us at https://thenordsarchitect.com/

[simransinghseo]

The Best Architects in Lucknow: Crafting Your Ideal Home

When it comes to designing your dream home, selecting the right architect is crucial. In Lucknow, a city rich in culture and history, you’ll find some of the best architects in Lucknow ready to transform your vision into reality. These professionals blend creativity, functionality, and a deep understanding of local aesthetics to craft spaces that truly feel like home. In this blog, we’ll explore the qualities that make these architects stand out, some noteworthy firms, and how to choose the right one for your project.

Understanding the Role of an Architect

An architect does much more than just create blueprints; they are visionaries who integrate art and science to design buildings that are both beautiful and practical. From the initial concept to the final construction, architects guide homeowners through every step of the process. They consider factors such as climate, materials, and site conditions, ensuring that your home is not only stunning but also sustainable.

Why Lucknow?

Lucknow is known for its rich architectural heritage, featuring a blend of Mughal, British, and Indo-Saracenic styles. This unique background has fostered a community of architects who appreciate the significance of local design elements while incorporating modern innovations. Choosing a local architect means they will understand the cultural context and environmental considerations that are vital to creating a home that feels integrated with its surroundings.

Qualities to Look for in an Architect

Experience and Expertise: A seasoned architect brings valuable insights gained from previous projects. Look for professionals who have experience in residential design, particularly in the Lucknow area.

Portfolio: Review their past work to gauge their style and versatility. The best architects in Lucknow will showcase a range of projects, from contemporary homes to traditional designs that reflect the local culture.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in the architect-client relationship. A good architect listens to your ideas, understands your needs, and translates them into a feasible design.

Sustainability Focus: With increasing awareness of environmental issues, many homeowners are looking for sustainable building practices. Find architects who prioritize eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs.

Client Reviews: Testimonials from previous clients can provide insight into an architect’s professionalism, creativity, and reliability. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or read online reviews.

Noteworthy Architects in Lucknow

Several firms and individuals have made a mark in the architectural landscape of Lucknow. Here are a few you should consider:

Architects 4u: Known for their innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, Architects 4u has handled numerous residential projects that harmonize modern living with traditional aesthetics.

Design Studio Lucknow: This firm specializes in bespoke residential designs, focusing on creating personalized spaces that reflect the unique tastes of their clients. Their portfolio includes a variety of styles, from minimalist to opulent.

Anuj Singh Architects: With a reputation for excellence, Anuj Singh Architects combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, ensuring that each project enhances the quality of life for its occupants.

Kumar Associates: Renowned for their attention to detail and customer-centric approach, Kumar Associates has successfully completed many projects that highlight the architectural richness of Lucknow.

Tips for Choosing the Right Architect

Define Your Needs: Before meeting potential architects, outline your requirements, budget, and design preferences. This clarity will help you communicate effectively.

Schedule Consultations: Meet with a few architects to discuss your project. This will give you a sense of their approach and whether it aligns with your vision.

Ask Questions: Inquire about their design process, timelines, and how they handle challenges that may arise during the project.

Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, choose an architect with whom you feel comfortable and confident. A good rapport can lead to a more enjoyable and productive collaboration.

Conclusion

Finding the best architects in Lucknow is a pivotal step in crafting your ideal home. With their expertise, creativity, and understanding of local architecture, these professionals can bring your vision to life while ensuring that your home is functional, beautiful, and reflective of your personality. As you embark on this exciting journey, remember to consider your options carefully and choose an architect who resonates with your goals. With the right partner by your side, your dream home is well within reach with the best architects in Lucknow.

[lesmana-enterprise-ltd]

The Griya Lesmana, Luxury Residence (NO CC)

The Griya Lesmana is a luxurious tropical modern mansion, valued at 1,2 million simoleons.

This exquisite residence seamlessly blends sleek contemporary design with intricate Indonesian cultural art. The home features expansive, open spaces that harmoniously connect the lush outdoors with the refined interiors, all while showcasing fine art that beautifully reflects rich heritage.

A masterpiece by The Lesmana Enterprise, this home exemplifies a perfect fusion of elegance and Tradition.

About Griya Lesmana

Welcome to Griya Lesmana, where modern elegance meets serene luxury. This breathtaking estate showcases a perfect blend of natural beauty and contemporary design, with lush greenery framing the sleek architecture. From the stunning pool area in the back facade to the peaceful study space inside, every corner of this home exudes sophistication and tranquility. It’s a haven of peace and a true reflection of timeless style in Del Sol Valley

Make Your Way In

Step inside Griya Lesmana and immerse yourself in a world of contemporary art and warm, earthy tones. Each piece in the home has been carefully selected to evoke a sense of culture and elegance, such as the Garuda Dwi Kencana (1977) by Oktaviano Sudarmadji and Gamelan (1960) by I Wayan Sudana. These art pieces, along with the striking Legong LempuYangan (1960), breathe life into the home, creating a refined and serene atmosphere. The rich wooden textures and soft lighting perfectly complement these works, making Griya Lesmana an extraordinary blend of modern luxury and cultural homage.

At the Peak of Del Sol Valley

Perched with breathtaking views of Del Sol Valley, Griya Lesmana seamlessly blends elegance with its stunning surroundings. The expansive windows showcase the golden landscape, while the Constellation Chandelier (Priced at §25,000) in the sunken conversation pit adds a celestial touch to the home’s refined, luxurious design. Every detail, from curated artwork to rich wooden textures, radiates sophistication in this contemporary masterpiece.

The Ultimate Home Kitchen and Dining

The dining room at Griya Lesmana is a refined space where art meets functionality. The stunning piece Transaksi (1992) by Chusin Setiadikara serves as the centerpiece, setting a tone of cultural richness, while the modern light fixtures bring warmth to every meal. Adjacent to it is the full-metal, industrial-grade kitchen, designed for the ultimate cooking experience. Equipped with top-tier appliances and plenty of counter space, this kitchen is perfect for everything from casual family meals to grand dinner parties.

Four Spacious Bedrooms

The bedrooms in Griya Lesmana are a true retreat, each designed with comfort and luxury in mind. Every room comes with its own walk-in closet, in-suite bathroom, and a private balcony to take in the stunning views of Del Sol Valley. Adorned with hand-picked artworks, like Pedagang Ayam by Hendra Gunawan and Roleplay by Made Toris Mahendra, these spaces blend art, culture, and modern elegance. Whether it's the rich wooden tones or the plush furnishings, each bedroom promises tranquility and style.

Step Into the Backyard

The backyard of Griya Lesmana is an oasis of relaxation and entertainment. Featuring a spacious pool area with a fully functional pool bar, it's the perfect spot for soaking up the sun or enjoying an evening drink. A BBQ patio invites you to indulge in outdoor dining under the warm glow of overhead lights, while the lush greenery surrounding the yard offers a serene retreat. With carefully landscaped gardens and ample lounging space, the backyard is designed to bring the beauty of nature right to your doorstep, all with stunning views of Del Sol Valley in the backdrop.

The Basement

The basement of Griya Lesmana is a hidden luxury haven. It features a spacious parking area that accommodates more than five cars, ensuring plenty of space for any vehicle collection. For fitness enthusiasts, the fully-equipped gym offers a private space to work out, while the sleek, modern sauna provides the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The basement also includes well-designed service quarters, ensuring that every aspect of living in this home is taken care of in style.

Packs Used

If the lot is recognized as modded, it is due to the paintings being registered as CC. There is no CC you need to download to use this build.

Download

Download here via Google Drive

Sul Sul!,

The Lesmana Enterprise Co., Ltd.

[wannaeatramyeon]

DG x Reader: Manager and their Idol

8.5k. G/N. Soft, colleagues to lover (guess I love this trope). Masterlists

You had imagined life as a K-Pop idol manager to be much more glamorous.

You pity your young naive self. The one that envisaged schmoozing with stars and rubbing elbows with the movers and shakers, and instead set you on this horrid, lacklustre path.

What you didn't expect was the amount of time playing driver. Carting that stupid pink haired brat around. Waiting on him hand and foot during shoots and interviews, and being at his beck and call.

You have saved his ass more times than you can recall, ran through scripts with him, practised his stupid dances and moves alongside, protected him from unhinged fans and reporters and scavengers.

And yet you can count on one hand the amount of times he has thanked you.

Actually no, it didn't require any hands because he has thanked you exactly zero times for all your early mornings and late nights and for going above and beyond your duty.

Out of desperation, you had asked your boss if you could manage someone else and the request was declined.

"DG has taken a liking to you," she said, tone impressed as if that was something you should be proud of.

"Great," your smile comes out as more of a grimace.

And goddamn, this agency was so stupidly prestigious and the benefits and perks here really are second to none. Just why did Diego fucking Kang have to be their top idol.

.

.

The first time you crossed the threshold into his building, greeting the reception security guard and entering his penthouse keycode like you had been let in on the world's greatest secret, you had tiptoed around like a child in a museum. After all, this was DG's residence. The DG!

You had ooh-ed and aah-ed at every little thing. 

Taking delight in seeing his interior design of choice, the type of candy that he snacks on, the shampoo and conditioner he uses, the way he organises his desk. This is the chair DG sits on to eat. This is the sofa DG lounges on to watch TV. This is the bed he sleeps in, the bath he uses, the toilet he-

Any wide eyed innocence and awe evaporated after your first week working together.

Today, you stab in the entry code and let the door shut with a bang. 

You set his now cold coffee order on the kitchen counter and rifle with practised fingers through his unopened mail to see if there is anything you should draw his immediate attention to. You pick up his discarded clothes from the floor (and for fuck's sake, this suit jacket was on loan) and make your way to his bedroom where tufts of pink hair peeks out from under the cover.

"Good morning," you announce, locating the remote to open the blinds and letting in some sunlight.

Bedsheets rustle behind you.

"Good morning Diego," you repeat and give one warning, "I hope you're decent." With that, you throw the covers back to find the scantily dressed idol glaring up at you.

You remember the days when this sight would have made you weak at the knees. Seeing him half naked, in the flesh, freshly woken up with bedhead and half lidded eyes. It's what most of Korea dreams of, including yourself once upon a time.

Now all you feel is extreme irritation.

"Good morning," you say for the third time, plastering on a saccharine smile that you know DG sees clearly through because it is insincere as hell to anyone with half a brain cell. You let the fakeness shine through anyway.

For a split second, DG frowns as his eyes drop to your lips and then he pretends everything is good. Smiling back prettily, sharp canines on show and stretching. Lifting his arms overhead, showing a good stretch of pecs and abs and the line of muscle in a V pointing like an arrow straight down to his-

You roll your eyes.

"You're late." You throw the covers back over him and stride back towards the door. "We should have left half an hour ago." You leave out the part where you had been waiting downstairs in the car and after an hour of no show and no anything, you stomped your way up to his home.

DG, sensing your mood, adds oil to the fire with a smirk, "Why didn't you wake me then?"

If that idiot bothered to look at his phone, he would see a number of missed calls and unread messages from you.

Whatever.

"Hurry up."

.

.

DG has come across many people like yourself over the years. All cute and bright eyed, way too soft.

He never gave you any special treatment, for better or worse, and assumed that you would eventually burn out or give up and move on to something more worthwhile.

Unfortunately, in a rare turn of events, he had miscalculated.

Of course most people would be starstruck, it's only natural. But he mistook your sincerity and kind smile for ignorance and missed your sharp, observing gaze, and astute mind.

He's impressed, and he really can't remember the last time he was impressed.

In a matter of days of working together, you had managed to cut through the bullshit and within the month got him more compliant and docile than anyone else ever has.

Which should be a huge fucking problem, and raising red flags all over DG's mind.

...Except-

What's really troubling him right now, as he sulks in the passenger seat and you in the driver's, is that you have developed some sort of resistance to his charms.

Maybe a part of him does actually miss the you who he formed the first impression of. Who looked at him in wonder, with the same admiration that everyone else did.

Now that he knows you, he hates that he had thought that initial admiration was insignificant and worthless.

.

.

DG has a stash of candy in the car.

Or more accurately, you keep a stash of candy next to him to a) Shut him up and b) Keep him tolerable.

If DG wasn't so aloof, the fact that he has an incurable sweet tooth (and probably cavities to prove it) would have made headlines as a cute K-Pop fact and likely garnered sponsorship and advertising deals with all sorts of confectionary brands.

You had only found out during your adventures as his manager, rifling through his kitchen drawers trying to find his goddamn phone that he misplaced and you stumbled upon his stash of candy.

It really was a disgusting amount, something you'd expect a gaggle of grade schoolers at Halloween to hoard, not Diego goddamn Kang.

And then you also found out if he's not quiet and haughty in the car, making the atmosphere awkward, he likes to comment on your driving.

Who even sits in the passenger seat next to their 'chauffeur' anyway? He complains about you braking too suddenly and not accelerating fast enough. How you drive like an 80 year old with cataracts, and you're too slow when the light changes to green.

The turn in your relationship happened when you snapped at him to shut the fuck up after losing the final shred of your sanity on a three hour drive.

DG, to your dismay, didn’t miraculously lose his hearing and turns to you as you silently berate yourself for voicing the quiet thoughts out loud.

Although, you're in the deep end now. You're gonna get fired anyway, so if he says anything else you might as well give him a flick on the forehead or a pinch or maybe a punch to the face-

Instead, he laughs.

It's nothing like the laugh you have heard on TV and in interviews. The rehearsed and manicured 'haha' or cool chuckle that suits his shiny persona. It's kinda goofy and a lot endearing.

What's even more endearing is the way he does actually shut the fuck up for the rest of the journey. You like him a lot more after that.

So. You digress.

The candy is a way to keep the sweet toothed maniac quiet. Even if it doesn't work, at least it's harder to make out what insults he's slinging with a lollipop rattling around his mouth.

However, he has never ever shared any with you. Any of the candy that you stock, and pay for.

(That you technically claim back on company expenses, but you're trying to be self righteous here.)

Ever.

In all the months of working with him, he gobbles away happily even if your stomach is growling and you refuse to take any yourself out of principle.

Until-

"Here."

"Huh?"

Taking advantage of your response and open mouth, DG leans into your personal space and feeds you some chewy strawberry something or another (which coincidentally are his least favourite), fingers lingering on your lips for a fraction of a second.

Three things happen in quick succession.

The burst of sugar hits your tongue.

You nearly choke.

You narrowly avoid swerving.

"Careful now," DG grins when you get the car and yourself under control, and glance at him with a scowl.

Good. That proves you're not completely immune to his charms.

.

.

That bastard has now taken it upon himself to feed you candy at every opportunity.

You wonder if he's doing some sort of Pavlov experiment. The sweetness trying to erase any sourness you feel towards him.

It sort of works, and you consider biting his fingers off one of these days.

You hear the crinkling of wrappers, one for him that he pops into his mouth, and one for you that he gives without asking.

You angle your head towards him, and his fingers graze your lips every time.

Neither of you comment on the change but the intimacy drives you a little crazy.

.

.

And DG too.

Because intimacy works both ways and damnit his little gesture to keep the pretty blush on your face has backfired.

The only form of intimacy he knows comes from discreet hookups and low key links. Not someone who is around day in, day out. Or anyone that goes deeper than one night stands and booty calls.

You're there, you're always there. Of course you are, you're his manager.

But today, he feels under the microscope with you standing a couple metres away and keen eyes watching the camera monitor.

It's a no nothing day. Standard schedule where he shoots a fragrance commercial and he exits a pool all wet and sultry, white t-shirt clinging to his muscled body.

Then another scene where he writhes around slightly on a sunbed and eye-fucks the camera.

How it sells a fragrance, he never knows. The mystery of showbiz.

"Cut! More powder!" The director shouts out, the crew springing into action and DG knows exactly why.

He feels strangely embarrassed and flustered, which has manifested into his cheeks being flushed, and god he can't even remember the last time he has been like this.

It’s out of character and he needs to get his head together.

As the make up artist hurriedly dabs on some foundation, you make your way over to him.

"Are you sick?" you ask, concerned and reaching out to feel his forehead with the back of your hand.

"I'm fine," He says, turning away from your attentiveness and staring at a point in the distance.

.

.

With most people, if DG wants them out of sight, they stay out of sight.

But as his manager, and a very competent one at that, it’s harder to get you to leave.

Not that DG wants you to either, don’t get him wrong. 

The only constants he has around him are people who want something from him. And yes, he knows you’re only in his company because you work with him. However, he really can’t doubt the concern he always sees in your eyes. The compassion and empathy even when he makes you want to scream and tear your hair out.

His standoffish demeanour is not new to anyone. It’s part of his appeal to be quite honest. 

Yet he feels bad over the next couple weeks as he turns it up to eleven and tries to create some distance. He registers the hurt on your face as he is extra short with his answers and behaviour.

.

.

Pandering to overinflated celebrity egos and the insane Korean work ethic often leads to after hour shoots and dinner delayed until past midnight.

Honestly, this wreaks havoc on your sleep schedule and your skin.

"Here." You retrieve DG's takeout from the paper bag.

A double portion of delicious fried chicken with a side of kimchi and pickles. It's a change of pace from what most idols order, yet he doesn't give two shits about calories or sodium intake and to add insult to injury, somehow manages to keep his trim figure.

You lament your soggy salad sitting at the bottom. As if it’s not sad enough right now - once you arrive home, the lettuce will be wilting and room temperature and you will eat it in your dimly lit apartment with nothing to keep you company except the sound of the TV.

DG notices you turning to leave his penthouse, and his mouth moves before his brain can.

"Aren't you staying?"

"What?" You double take at the question.

DG's company is usually worse than your lonely meal for one. 

He’s annoying and you frequently want to slap him, but how he has been with you lately has been troubling and you actually feel a sense of relief at his offer.

(You had wondered if you might have been getting sacked up until this moment.)

Nevertheless, in all your time working alongside, you have never had a proper meal one on one together. Nothing more than you driving with one hand and the other hastily shoving a burger into your mouth as he looks on in disgust.

You would have dwelled on this more, wondering what's changed, what’s happened, but then-

"I'll share." DG nudges the box towards you, and the delicious scent of deep fried, battered goodness wafts along with it it

All your misgivings and your salad is forgotten.

.

.

Almost.

No, you were wrong.

Eating with DG, without any distractions such as traffic to navigate or other boisterous colleagues around, is unnerving. Disarming.

His haughtiness remains, but how haughty can someone be when munching on a drumstick.

All frostiness from the past weeks melts away as you both eat your way through his chicken.

He’s talking more tonight than you have heard in a while.

You find him funny, and really quite bitchy. Which you did know all along except it's much funnier now his slanderous comments aren't directed at you.

And has he always looked at you with such a piercing gaze? So intensely focused on what you have to say. Even if you're just complaining about your boss, blurring your lines of professionalism, he gives you his full attention.

You really can't remember the last time you have been in each other's company like this. 

You loathe to admit that even with what an asshole he is, DG's shine hasn’t dulled enough for you that you don't understand the appeal.

.

.

Leaning forward, DG whispers into your ear.

To anyone else, it looks like an over-affectionate idol with their manager. If they could hear his words, "I'm going to kill you," they would think otherwise.

Ok, so this one is your fault.

The good times have to come to an end and maybe you should have been more careful with his pride and joy - some ridiculously overpriced and over-specced vehicle.

Taking advantage of the clear blue Seoul skies, the pink haired menace was the one who drove you today in his fancy imported sports car, but the speed limits and the rest of the traffic was not on his side.

Already running late, even for him, he parked somewhere convenient and illegal then passed you the keys, leaving you stranded on the sidewalk, mouth opening and closing like a goldfish, as he strode off to meet his music producer and choreographer and left you to park his baby elsewhere.

Why he entrusted you with it, you're not sure.

You would have done it anyway though, because when else are you going to have an opportunity to drive a supercar, if your boss didn't call at that moment. Questioning your expenses and DG's schedule and confusing you about the fitting at a fashion house and hair styling appointment that you knew like the back of your hand but when someone is so confidently incorrect, you start to doubt yourself.

By the time you got off the phone after pacing up and down the street and checking and double checking DG's timetable, you finally make your way back to the car-

And see it in the middle of being compounded.

You had begged and pleaded with the two men who were having none of it and you left, tail between your legs, to beg and plead with the other man who you knew would also have none of it.

Damn, you hate it when you prove yourself right in these instances.

You know DG won't really kill you, but he will likely make your life hell for the next couple weeks.

.

.

A normal person being pissed off at you would probably result in the silent treatment until tempers cool down.

DG does the opposite. Sort of.

He takes pleasure in making things as awkward for you as possible, until you're squirming in your seat trying to stay professional, thinking about your job and your rent and your bills; or torn between wanting the ground to swallow you up.

Around other people, your boss, your colleagues, his colleagues, he sidles up to you all smiles and soft looks. Slips purposely into banmal, and then oopsy, pretends that he didn't mean to be so informal with you around others.

Gossip soon stirs about your and DG's close relationship, if there's something else going on. Only you can see the mischief in his eyes and the malice in his smile and you think about yanking him by the ear and demanding to know what he is playing at.

Alone, he denies any sort of miscreant behaviour. Barely listening to you complaining and snapping at him. Ending with him outright ignoring you and you fume even harder.

This time, you're not sure the punishment even fits the crime. 

Any guilt soon dissipates when his car is returned in perfect condition within a couple days but his performance lasts for weeks.

.

.

Teasing you has always been fun for DG - when your cheeks dust angrily with pink and your eyes burn with fire.

The equivalent of a boy pulling a girl’s pigtails in the school yard.

.

.

Meetings with HNH Group usually do not involve you. If it does, at most you are waiting in the car.

Luckily, there are also an assortment of cafes and restaurants within a stone's throw and it gives you some time to debrief and catch a breather from following DG's hectic schedule.

The downside is you're never sure if a two hour meeting will be condensed to fifteen minutes or if a quick catch up with Charles Choi and other Executives turns into an all nighter.

There's been days where you have ordered a meal, then had to abandon it with a sigh and a longing look as you spot DG striding out of the building looking pissed off that you're not already there, or stayed in the vehicle with the engine running and your stomach rumbling as short appointments overshoot.

Maybe this is another consequence from DG being petty and irate with you for getting his car towed - you're left snoozing at the steering wheel of your runaround, the idol standard-issue luxury minivan, waiting for his return.

It's far too late in the evening for anywhere to be open, only the fluorescent lights of convenience stores and glare of the HNH logo illuminates the streets.

DG opens the sliding door, climbs into the back and slams it hard enough to jerk you awake and rattle the entire van.

He’s sitting by himself in the back, which is odd enough in itself.

As you blink away the dregs of sleep, in the rearview mirror, you notice the stiffness in his shoulders and the tightness in his jaw. His eyes stare vacantly out the window. DG is clearly upset about something, enough to crack through his aloof veneer.

"Are you ok?" You don't get a response, not even a passing glance.

Obviously something has gone wrong with the HNH Group meeting and the stress has manifested.

You wrack your brains thinking of something that might cheer up this asshole and you think of the only thing that improves your mood when you're on the verge of a breakdown.

(Usually due to the aforementioned asshole in your current presence). 

"Tteokbokki and beer?" You offer. It’s past your bedtime but a sulky DG for the rest of the week will also ruin your week too.

DG briefly looks at you before going back to staring at the window. It’s not a no.

You don’t get home until past 4am that night. 

At your favourite late night hole-in-the-wall, you eat far more tteokbokki than DG. On second thoughts, you don’t remember him eating any at all. You’re talking and downing beers to fill the silence, trying to perk up this silly celebrity. Loose lipped and spilling far more details than you would if you were sober, with him seated opposite and sipping on a soda. 

As the night ticks along, he thaws and a small smile settles on his face watching you gesticulate and ramble about your life.

You don’t get home until past 4am that night-

With DG driving, piggybacking you up to your apartment, and tucking you into bed.

.

.

DG can’t stop thinking of the weight of you on his back, arms slung over his shoulders, legs at his waist and his hands gripping your thighs.

You slurring drunkenly into his ear as he climbs the stairs in your building. It’s mostly nonsense. He can’t make out your words but remembers your breath tickling his skin.

And when he wraps your duvet around you, the brief moment of lucidity in your eyes as you look at him, softer than you ever have, you tell him, “Thanks Diego.”

Diego.

.

.

Nothing changes between the two of you after this. Not really.

You still find him an enormous thorn in your side. Incredibly stuck up and haughty and you continue to want to throttle him on a weekly basis but you are immensely grateful for him not leaving you a passed out heap on the sidewalk.

You’re in the middle of chastising him once again, dragging him out of bed as he is running late and being an absolute dick about it. Taking it easy as if he has all the time in the world. 

Well of course he does. He’s not the one that will be getting an earful from your boss or on the receiving end of the production crew’s complaints, as if trying to manhandle and cart this manchild around is easy.

“Diego Kang, I swear to fucking god-”

"James." He says, interrupting you as he picks out and pulls an eye-wateringly expensive jumper over his head.

"What?"

"Call me James when it's just us.” He checks out his outfit in the mirror, seemingly satisfied with it, before moving onto his hair. “James Lee. That's my real name."

DG, or James Lee, keeps his eyes on his reflection. Inspecting his non-existent roots, styling his fringe to make it fall just so and applying a liberal amount of hair product.

Nonchalant and casual even as he offers something desperately personal about himself.

"James," you say, trying out the sound for yourself. A name that seems at odds with his loud K-Pop shell but you imagine a time before the fame and the celebrity and the pink hair and it somehow fits.

"James," you repeat, and receive a small smile in return. Then it drops as you add, “If you don’t get your ass in the car in the next five minutes I will kill you.”

.

.

“James,” you think to yourself before you drift off to sleep that night. 

How peculiar.

“James, James, James.”

.

.

Celebrities these days are multi-hyphenates.

DG is an Idol-CEO-Actor, or at least trying to add the last one onto his resume. On looks alone, he would have already gotten his foot through the door. Add on his reputation and popularity, he is drowning in offers.

What you personally dislike more with K-dramas scenes though, is how long things take. How much it revolves around other actors and their managers whereas DG being in the studio or filming a music video is pretty much all him.

This K-drama is supposed to be the next big thing. 

With the biggest names attached, including DG who is making a cameo. The cameo that was also scheduled to be filmed five hours ago but you have both just been lurking in his dressing room since.

Along with some measly snacks and refreshments, which the crew has been kind enough to provide. 

However, the snacks are all but gone (thanks to you) and the refreshments are dwindling and there is no end in sight.

DG, or James, as you have started to call him in your head, is on his phone. He’s always on his phone. Scrolling through news articles, responding to important emails and messages.

There’s only so much news or celebrity gossip you can take. You have exhausted your own social media feeds and you have spent far too much money on your gacha games and the guilt has set in.

You twiddle your thumbs on the sofa next to him as he takes no notice of your presence and you decide to rest your eyes. 

Why not anyway? DG doesn’t need anything right now, work won’t be interrupting you, and there’s nothing for you to do. Just for a minute or five. Until someone from the production team knocks on the door and announces that it’s time for his scene.

DG side-eyes you when he notices your breath start to slow and deepen. Falling asleep on the job, really?

Then you let out a snore before smacking your lips together a couple times and he holds back a snort. He reasons that he should let you have some time to rest. After all, you’re the one that drives him around, his life is in your hands everyday and tiredness kills.

He’s on his phone for a few more minutes, reading through more emails on PTJ Entertainment and out of the corner of his eye he notices you drooping.

Body slowly slumping to slouch over him, until your head makes contact with his shoulder and you’re snoozing happily on your newfound pillow.

It’s equal parts inappropriate and cute.

Ugh, DG is 99% sure you’re drooling on him and the wardrobe department isn’t going to be happy when he returns the outfit.

Either way, that’s not going to be his problem. He adjusts minutely, makes it just a touch more comfortable for you and continues to scroll.

.

.

You wake up to a wetness by your mouth, and to your horror, DG smirking down at you.

.

.

Despite none of this being your fault, you apologise to everyone about having to reschedule DG’s music video shoot due to the previous day’s K-drama delays.

To your relief, the music video goes swimmingly and without a hitch, and the production is wrapped up on time. 

You’ll happily bet that his new song will go straight to No.1. If not, then at least the sensual music video will guarantee DG remains top of mind for weeks. 

You’re updating your boss and even she seems to be pleased.

"This is just work." DG interrupts as you're mid call.

You look up at him, brows furrowed.

Holding your hand to your phone to mute the speaker, you whisper, "I know."

"Good," and he walks away leaving you as confused as ever.

It's not the first time you have seen him shoot an MV, which thank the heavens is so much more efficient than bloody k-dramas, and also not the first time that there's been scenes that emulate an intimate moment. Lips nearly brushing together. Hands roaming bodies under fake rain.

Even if DG notices that you're watching the scene, eyes glazed over and bored, he still felt the urge to explain to you that there's nothing between you and the leading lady in the video.

Once out of sight of everyone, he facepalms himself for his ridiculousness.

.

.

You’re right, and you absolutely love it when you’re right.

The song goes straight to No.1 and holds that position for weeks, fending off competition from boy bands and girl groups and other solo artists. Apparently it’s going to be the song of the summer.

The music video also breaks records for being the most watched within 24 hours.

DG only reviews it once for post-production checks and finds it just fine.

There’s something he can’t quite put his finger on that seems off with it.

He wonders what it would look like if it was you starring opposite him.

.

.

“Where on earth is he?” You grit your teeth and grip harder onto the umbrella that is threatening to be swept away by the wind.

And another thing with being DG’s manager: it’s fine if he’s late but not if it’s you.

(Although to be fair, this instance of him being late is likely due to this particular music producer he’s meeting with enjoying the sound of his own voice.)

You were running late exactly one time in the past, during the first couple days of managing him, when the skies opened and drenched the earth. 

Heavens forbid DG’s perfect, beautiful, flawless hair is ruined by the rain. 

It’s not like he looked like a drowned rat. The paparazzi caught him in a wet t-shirt, fabric clinging to his abs and his pink hair slicked back stylishly. Even the goddamn raindrops were running fashionably down his high cheekbones and dripping off his pout.

For the next week, the tabloids and internet forums went wild with how hot he looked. 

(Who knows, maybe that was the inspiration for his fragrance commercial.)

Nevertheless, DG was displeased and it made its way back to your boss how displeased he was.

Ever since, you have been the unfortunate soul waiting in all manners of weather for him. Rain storms, blistering sun, freezing snow.

Today, it’s your favourite. Rain. You shiver against the elements trying to take shelter under the building entrance canopy, the wind whipping the downpour every which way and you’re getting soaked regardless of how you angle your umbrella.

“Hurry up, DG.”

You check the time over and over. He would be early to his next appointment if he exited the building now. 

…On time.

…On time if the traffic was in your favour.

…Late, but not terribly so.

…Fashionably late.

… Late enough to piss everyone off in the room.

Shit. Just as you begin to fret, wondering if something has happened to him-

Clicks and flashes from cameras alert you to his royal highness finally making an appearance, ready to exit the studio and making his way over to the car.

He materialises by your side, and you mutter a familiar phrase to him. 

“You’re late.” 

It’s a mantra you’re tired of repeating, but he relishes if the amused grin is any indication.

Without a word, he takes off his trench coat and drapes it around your shoulders. His right hand covers yours over the umbrella handle, left wrapping around your waist as he guides you through the throng of reporters and fans.

“What are you doing?” You hiss under your breath. 

You can imagine the optics now from the papers and your boss. It looks… Well. Not terrible but not the best.

“You’re soaked,” is all DG provides, accompanied with a raised eyebrow and a smirk. 

He opens the driver’s door for you before he climbs into the passenger’s side.

.

.

Thank goodness for your gift of the gab.

He’s being a gentleman, you tell everyone that would listen. Isn’t this what Korea wants? An idol with manners and who looks after everyone? Is empathetic and caring?

Think how well it would resonate with the female demographic, who wants a boyfriend like this! The older boomer demographic, who thinks none of the young ‘uns have any manners anymore!

Your boss isn’t convinced until the advertising offers for umbrella companies roll in.

.

.

Truth be told, DG doesn’t know what possessed him to do that. Especially in front of cameras.

Though, it’s not like he could just let you get even more drenched could he? You’re standing there, looking pitiful and he was just going to let you hold the umbrella over him when he should be the one taking care of you-

Hold on.

DG frowns at himself.

Damn.

.

.

James Lee has never looked after anyone besides himself. You need to look after yourself if you are to survive this dog eat dog world. To make it atop the Pre-Generation, the First Generation and now the Second.

He had unfathomably high expectations of himself (that he managed to achieve) and low expectations for relationships (that hadn’t been proven wrong yet).

People have flitted in and out of the chapters of his life, no-one staying around for long. Definitely no-one staying around long enough to know him, for him to grow comfortable with. 

Perhaps it has been the forced closeness that has caused him to let his guard down. Cabin fever, in a sense.

But James Lee, Diego Kang, has himself also been around long enough to know there’s more to you and he wants more of you.

.

.

Finding reasons to spend time together isn’t difficult. Actually, finding reasons to spend time apart would be much harder.

You both get on with your jobs and your duties, even as the closeness grows day by day.

And every time when you’re alone and you call him James, his heart grows fonder.

.

.

Out of all the seats available in his apartment, James lounges next to you, long legs draping over yours.

It's another night in together.

These seem to be happening with increasing frequency. DG at least used to keep up appearances, networking with his fellow celebrities.

Parties where you used to look at him with distaste as starlets surrounded him, award shows that he couldn't care less about as you hung around in the background.

Now he prefers to stay in with you, using work as a thin excuse. Studying lyrics that he has already memorised, going over dances that are long ingrained in him.

"You're not going to her party?" You ask, you were sure this fan-favourite and DG were an item or had history. At the very least, the who's who of the industry always attended her gatherings.

"No," his eyes continue roving over the lines.

Then when you thought the conversation was done, he looks over the top of his paper, eyes sparkling with playfulness, "I prefer being here with you."

Oh. Your breath catches in your throat.

You think you might never breathe normally again.

.

.

No, that’s a lie. Any opportunities for rose-tinted glasses has long passed by. You both know each other too well for that.

You breathe perfectly fine. Actually, this morning you are taking deep breaths to try and centre yourself. 

It’s not working. 

“You’re always fucking late,” you snap, giving in to your anger.

Sometimes you think it is your fault for not watching over DG 24/7. That instead of going back home, you should just live with him so you can shake him awake when he is supposed to get up instead of when he wants to.

And does it hurt him to look the least bit contrite at making your life a misery? 

Why does he have to look so smug with a lollipop stick hanging out his mouth? Seriously, between all the rushing around this morning, when did he find time to look for goddamn candy?

“For fuck’s sake, James.” You’re speed walking towards his front door, looking at the Maps app on your phone and miss his smile at you snarling his name. 

You’re already running behind and every route to the recording studio is red due to roadworks or an accident or just plain ol’ congestion. “Shit!”

Your finger jabs at the elevator button multiple times.

“It’s not going to get there any quicker if you do that,” DG speaks lowly into your ear and you get the urge to pinch him.

Instead of prodding some more at the button, you turn around and prod him in the chest.

“You’re going to get me fired one of these days,” You growl. “It’s fine for you, Diego goddamn Kang, the star who is pretty much untouchable. I’m not. I’m replaceable. There’s a million people who would take my job-”

DG snatches your hand, holds it still. “You’re not replaceable.” Then adds with an infuriating grin, “So what if we’re late.”

The minivan is skipped, and his answer to your problem is his other pride and joy. A motorbike that looks far too aggressive and a complete death trap.

“I’m not getting on that,” you say as DG hands you leathers that materialised from god-knows-where and a spare helmet.

“Fine,” he says, shrugging and throwing a leg over. “I don’t think your boss will be happy.”

“Fuck!”

.

.

If this was any other situation, you would be acutely aware of yourself pressed up against DG’s back. Your arms wrapped tightly around his waist.

Except all you can focus on is that you’re going to fucking die. You think you might be screaming.

“Stop screaming!” His disembodied voice calls out. Oh. Turns out you are.

For some reason, DG had thought the helmets with built in speakers and mic would be better for communication. Fun, even. Frankly, you’re just giving him a headache.

(Not to mention the fact that he bought a spare helmet at all. And leathers that he thought would be exactly your size.

He had never rode with anyone before and you certainly had never expressed any interest. Yet he passed by a motorcycle store when he had rare time to spare, and visited on a whim.

If he dwelled on this anymore, DG is sure his headache would turn into a full blown migraine.)

Later that night, when the ringing in his ears finally subside, he will still think about the way you held him.

.

.

When public opinion is on your side, then that’s fantastic. Amazing. You tend to get away with all sorts of things.

When it’s not, the truth can become muddied and there’s mental gymnastics from all sides painting you as the villain.

Fortunately, public opinion generally works in DG’s favour, especially in the case of his stalker who got sentenced for more jail time than if she was harassing a normal person, but not long enough to account for all the distress she has caused.

Such is the criminal justice system.

Her date of release looms large and near. DG, despite his talent and fighting prowess, realises certain traumas can’t be erased.

He grows on edge. Skittish. Snaps at any and everything. It’s noted by journalists. Other managers gives you questioning looks

You don’t miss his change in demeanour. To you, the reason behind it is obvious. 

You’ve heard about this case, everyone has. It dominated headlines for almost a month: the crazy sasaeng fan who believed herself to be DG’s girlfriend before moving onto another poor soul and was finally arrested.

As he spirals, nothing you do or say to him manages to get more than a nod or a frown. You try to offer that she had fixated on someone else before she was arrested, hoping that was a small consolation to him. And though he managed a weak smile, the black cloud still hangs over him.

In the end, you pack your bags and arrive at DG’s one evening. Instead of letting yourself in like you usually would, you ring the buzzer, smile into the door camera and tell him “It’s me!”

The door swings open to reveal DG looking perplexed (and worse for wear). Head tilting, curious and inquisitive when he sees your suitcase and carrier bags full of snacks.

“I’m staying for a while.”

“According to who?”

You barge past him anyway with a grin.

.

.

The date of his stalker’s release arrives and passes without drama.

You miss your home comforts but it makes you happy to see DG’s mood genuinely improve as the days go on.

The luxurious oversized mattress, fancy spa shower, and jacuzzi bathtub also helps to make your stay a bit more bearable.

Not to mention each morning DG actually cooks breakfast for you. Turns out he’s not bad at all at playing a househusband, and it’s also maddening how he manages to get up each day before you when he hasn’t got any place to be.

“Thanks James,” you say, when he presents you with a home cooked meal and his smile grows a bit more each day.

.

.

Peace doesn’t last.

Blurry photos of you both leaving and entering DG’s apartment at all hours of the day and night make the front page of certain news sites.

Headlines scream with leading questions.��

“Relationship beyond Manager and Idol?”

“How a Manager seduced their Idol.” 

“Who is this mystery person that has tamed DG?”

Why anyone deemed it newsworthy is beyond you. You’ve been to his apartment a million times. 

Yes, you suppose the closeness of DG and yourself in the photos can look a little suspect. 

In this particular one, it looks like you have your hand caressing his chest when in actual fact you were shoving him away for a dismissive comment he made.

And the other photo, of his hand on your wrist, was actually him dragging you away when he spotted a herd of fans in the distance.

More pictures unveil themselves.

A snapshot of you driving and DG feeding you candy.

You and DG, whispering intimately in your ear as his supercar is being towed away in the background.

You red faced and drunk as DG piggybacks you outside your building.

His jacket wrapped around you, hand on your waist and angling the umbrella over you.

Him smiling down at you (ok, you admit that you didn’t realise how soft that looks to other people.)

Finally an exceptionally pixelated image of you both on his bike, that could be anyone really.

Unfortunately, your opinion is in the minority as the articles are inundated with comments and furious, tearful fans shrieking that their idol is betraying them. 

Simply unhinged.

.

.

The speculation grows. You’re damned if you do deny anything, damned if you don’t. Your talent agency puts out an official statement.

To your ire, the statement is ‘no comment’ rather than anything more definitive. You glare at James when you find out, suspecting he has something to do with this.

He gives you a shrug, and a familiar look of mischief.

To his credit, he doesn’t leave you completely to fend for yourself. You stay off social media for your sanity, and when the paparazzi hounds you, he's the one with his arm around you, cutting a path through the crowd and shielding you.

It adds fuel to the fire. Does nothing to help your case. 

Still, you can’t help feeling safe and secure with his hand guiding you - holding onto your waist, round your shoulder, or simply - 

Your hand in his.

.

.

Outside of the conference room, where DG is wrapping up a press release for his newest album and nothing else, a reporter slinks out and approaches you.

You’re used to being on the other side of the conversation. Part of the staff, herding DG through camera flashes and questions being thrown at him though there was always some sort of camaraderie. Both parties just trying to do their job with deadlines and targets to hit.

This time you just feel a weariness as you see this person making a beeline towards you.

“Nice to meet you, Y/N.” They say, holding out their hand for a shake which you take with reluctance.

“Hi.”

A voice recorder is thrusted into your face, and you automatically take a step back. “Hope you don’t mind, but I just have a couple questions for you.”

“Um...”

“There’s been lots of sightings of you and DG together-”

You open your mouth to argue-

“Can you confirm your relationship with him?”

A vacant smile settles onto your face. It’s a practised expression where you follow all the cues to be polite and professional even as internally you wish to be anywhere but here. “I’m his manager.”

“Are you two together? Romantically?”

“I’m his manager.” You repeat through gritted teeth, and you’re surprised to hear your voice calm and collected.

“Is that a no? Or-”

“What even is this question?” You scoff, ignoring the way your cheeks heat, and refusing to partake in this circus a moment longer. “This is over.”

You manage to at least catch them looking apologetic, before you stride off into a corner to take a deep breath.

.

.

DG, much more adept and experienced at fending off questions, had finished the conference early and caught the entire exchange, watching you both with a bemused look.

Walking towards you with quiet, measured footsteps, his hand settles onto your lower back as he murmurs your name.

He bites back a laugh at your small, startled jolt.

DG tilts his head to signal ‘this way’. You give him a look but follow him regardless. Trailing behind, moving far away from other prying eyes. 

Up a flight of stairs, through multiple fire doors, turning left then right then another right then maybe a left. It doesn’t matter. You’re hopefully lost and decide to just put your faith in this wretched idol.

He finally seems to find what he’s looking for as he reaches an empty corridor; stopping mid-step and you collide into his back.

“Ack!” You exclaim, hitting the solid wall of muscle.

He lets out a huff of laughter and whirls around to face you, noting how cute your look of surprise is.

How strange though, that this is his current position. But is it really unexpected that the person that has been by his side for months has finally worked their way into his heart and has somehow learned to read him when no-one else could?

If he really thinks about it, yes actually, it is unexpected. No-one else has managed to grow close to him before. As James Lee, as Diego Kang. Birds of a feather or opposites attract or everything in between, no-one has got him like you do. 

There’s still so much more to tell and show you but… First things first.

Fidgeting, you shift your weight from one foot to another, growing self-conscious waiting for DG to talk, only to find him staring intently at your face. Impatient, you give in and speak first.

“What is it?”

“...”

“Diego-”

“James.” He cuts in abruptly, “It’s just us right now. Please.”

You blink in shock at the please and correct yourself at his insistence, lowering your voice so it doesn’t echo down the empty hallway. “James, are you ok?”

“Better than ever,” he says, a smirk now pulling at his lips.

You register his change in mood and narrow your eyes, wondering where this is going. “Why are we here?”

“When the reporter asked if we were together, you said you’re my manager.”

“I am your manager.”

“But you are interested in me.”

It’s not a question. DG, no James, says it like a fact and there’s no doubt in your mind or his. You open your mouth to argue, then close it again. Open it once more-

What.

You feel some cogs in your brain misfiring and all you can manage is a feeble, “Huh?”

“You told them you’re my manager, but didn’t say no to being with me.”

“...”

“So. What do you think?”

“Of what?”

“Us.”

“You like me. Tell me that I’m wrong.”

You take a step back. “...”

Another step. “...”

“Tell me you don’t want this.”

And your back hits the wall with an oomph.

DG slaps his hand on the wall beside your head, bends at the waist and leans his weight forward until he’s eye level with you. “Tell me and I promise I’ll stop.”

“...”

You’re cornered and he searches your face for a response.“Y/N?”

“...”

Fuck. Fuck!

How on earth are you supposed to respond when he looks at you like this. When his face is millimetres from yours and his breath is on your skin and his dark eyes pierces into your soul, pupils blown deliciously wide.

With his stupid pink hair and his fringe flopping, framing his face and his high cheekbones.

The stupid canines of his poking out that gives him so much character and is so hot it hurts when he flashes it accompanied with an arched brow and an arrogant smile.

His stupid pout and his stupid lips, that you know is constantly moisturised with a fancy overpriced lip balm to make it look kissable for the cameras.

And Jesus Christ, you hate to admit it but they do. They 100% do because somewhere in the back of your brain you always knew they look kissable but it has been often clouded by just simply how annoying and bratty you found him.

Except right now you don’t find him annoying or bratty at all.

Even as he’s confessing his feelings with complete confidence, no unease, no anxiety or doubts, because he always had a way of worming under your skin and he knows exactly how to push your buttons.

Damn it all.

“Kiss me,” you tell James, and he isn’t surprised at all by your reaction, face lighting up at your confirmation.

He shifts. 

Hand coming up to cup your cheek. He rubs his thumb twice over your skin, savouring you any way he can before tilting your face towards his. His lips at first brushes against your forehead. Leaves a trail down your nose, peppers both cheeks and then your chin. 

He draws back once, takes in your sweet face and gives you a smile so soft it makes your heart hurt.

Then finally, after wanting this for so long, presses his lips against yours.

Diego Kang, James Lee, tastes like candy and sugar.

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

Let’s assume for a second Meghan has been‘flagged’ as a fixated person or even a person of concern, can they be eligible for IPP? If she has been identified as a concern, can the government simultaneously give her that level of protection and access to intel?

This is all just speculation.

Disclaimer first: This is beyond my knowledge of national security.

Can a fixated person be eligible for IPP? Yes. Because everyone is eligible for IPP.

Would they actually get it? Mm, probably not.

Let’s talk it out.

First, the kind of information that protected people get in this case is information about the security threats against them and details of security plans designed to keep them safe. They wouldn’t be getting information about other protectees unless they’re at the top of the hierarchy (like say Charles or William) or the other protectee is their minor child because the compartmentalization of whereabouts and security plans is part of the safety plan.

Could a fixated person extrapolate the knowledge from their security plans to make educated guesses about someone else’s plans? Yes, they could. So that’s a risk that would be taken into consideration while determining someone’s IPP status.

But by and large the issue with fixated people (as I understand it) is not access to information but access to the person of their fixation. Which is why security exists in the first place. As long as there’s a degree of separation and security - and there would be between Meghan and Kate because Kate is the Princess of Wales and that comes with a totally different security posture than, say, the Duchess of Edinburgh - that’s really all that’s necessary. The security posture could change if the fixated IPP is in the same room, for instance like at the Platinum Jubilee service of thanksgiving where William and Kate sat in the front row of Section A but Harry and Meghan were sat across the aisle in the interior third row of Section B with sleeper agents positioned all around them.

Second, all the IPP (Internationally Protected Person) designation means is that the person has diplomatic status worthy of a protection detail. That’s all. It doesn’t come with a special security clearance or unrestricted access to anywhere or anyone their cold black heart desires. There are still rules and procedures they have to follow because all being IPP means is that they’re protected from the public. IPP does not mean that they don’t have to follow the rules and procedures of *other* IPP.

So what does that mean? It means that if the IPP fixated person wants to go somewhere near the subject of their fixation, they still have to follow the rules and procedures of the subject’s security team. They don’t get to just waltz right through the security checks and get all up in Michelle Obama’s business (IYKYK).

In other words, just because Meghan is IPP doesn’t mean she has free access to Kate. She still has to follow the rules set by Kate’s security team and I would imagine that if Meghan were to return to the BRF, William would draw his family’s security net even tighter to block any chance of Harry and Meghan trying to get through. For instance, there’s renewed gossip that Harry wants to move into KP Apartment 1 and/or KP Apartment 7 (Apt 1 being the former Gloucester residence next door to William and Kate’s 1A apartment, which supposedly the Waleses have taken over for more office space, and Apt 7 being part of Diana’s former residence). William will mostly likely probably block that because his family still uses 1A. And likewise, he’d probably block the Sussexes from returning to the Windsor estate, since his family is there now as well. (Meaning Harry and Meghan’s only options is St. James’s Palace or a country estate outside of London…neither of which meet Meghan’s very exact specifications.)

Third, the last piece of the puzzle: the security risk and threat assessment. Everyone who goes up for IPP status (or heck, even just to take a job in the civil service - which, let me remind everyone, the BRF is. They’re essentially government workers who live very cushy lives supplemented by generational wealth) has to go through a security risk and threat assessment where everything from our families to our hobbies to our known associates to our health to our travel to our neighbors and home is investigated and assessed via background checks and investigations.

(And yes, this most likely means that anyone who marries into the royal family who does not come from a known associate - eg a family known to the BRF like the Spencers and Fergusons were - probably has had background investigations done for them to be able to meet principal members of the royal family. Kate and the Middletons probably had one, though perhaps not as in depth since she and William were together for so long, but there certainly was one done on Meghan when Harry got serious enough with her that he wanted her to meet The Queen.)

Now the thing about background checks and investigations, security clearances, and IPP status is that if you leave the civil service to go work in the private sector for a few years and then you decide to come back and be a fed again, your old checks and clearances aren’t there waiting for you like an old coat you buried in the back of your closet for 5 years. You have to undergo a total and complete reinvestigation. And if there are things that pop up in your reinvestigation over behaviors or diagnoses or actions you did while employed by a fake mental health startup and Netflix (for example) that have violated certain codes, standards, ethics, laws, or that exponentially increased your vulnerability to being exploited by foreign adversaries, or that have exposed you as a significant threat to the mental, physical, and social wellbeing of a principal staffer, well, then, you’re not getting that job and you can kiss your old security clearance or your old diplomatic status or your old RAVEC status goodbye. Even if you’re related to the principal staffer(s) in question.

So to sum up. A fixated person is eligible to be declared IPP. But they still have to go through all the checks and threat analyses to actually receive IPP status, and that’s where the issue is.

Ignoring “fixated person” (since again, that hasn’t actually been confirmed and is only just gossip and speculation), this is why Harry’s latest tactic is to say “if only my father would just give it back to me.” He is eligible for IPP just on the basis of being King Charles’s son, and he has Tier 3 (case-by-case) status because of that. But Tier 3 isn’t good enough; he wants Tier 1 (25/8 permanent) status, but RAVEC’s position is that Harry is disqualified Tier 1 because of his own behaviors and actions. Harry wants Charles to overrule the government and so far Charles hasn’t, because he’s likely read the report that bringing Harry back in poses more danger to the Waleses than leaving him out.

To which I say yes, that’s true, but bringing Harry in means they can better control him and what he does, so it’s a safer security posture to begin with. The issue is Meghan, who has proven time and time again that she doesn’t play by anyone’s rules but her own and has no interest in being on a team. In that case, it’s a safer security posture for her to be on the outside and away from everyone where it’s easier to monitor her so that her arrival or appearance can be more easily and more carefully planned for.

Which is ultimately the core conflict. Harry wants Meghan. The BRF doesn’t (or can’t). So Harry will emotionally blackmail everyone to force them to accept her. They refuse. Meghan says “it’s me or Kate and if you don’t choose me, you’re all racist.” The BRF laughs and chooses Kate anyway. They go on a worldwide tour of privacy to declare everyone is racist. No one cares. So they go crawling back to the BRF. The BRF says “only Harry, no Meghan.” But Harry wants Meghan. The BRF doesn’t. And around and around and around we go.

[seabirdtxt]

.Irminsul checkout -b <Realm Within>

You, the Creator, explore the possibilities the teapot realm has to offer and try to make accommodations for your surprising new roommates [< prev] [Blog tag] [next >]

Notes: Genshin SAGAU, reader is the Creator but no cult shenanigans. all relationships are currently platonic! WC. 3k

----- ⚘ -----

Meeting Tubby was just as entertaining as you’d hoped it would be. The flustered teapot spirit nearly dropped her porcelain hat when she saw you, offering to give you a personal tour of the realm mansion (as if you hadn’t designed the interior yourself), calling up Chubby (who was mortified to admit that he hadn’t brought any new stock today), and frantically rearranging furniture as your group roamed the mansion grounds despite your protests that everything was fine as it was. In the end, she settled for hosting you and your two companions over a pot of tea.

The Traveler remains silently amused as they watch you trying to behave politely while Tubby continuously refills your cup with fresh sunsettia tea. Beside them, Wanderer discreetly tosses the contents of his cup over his shoulder with a grimace. 

Inevitably, between her stuttered rambling and your patient reassurances, Tubby notices the empty cup and refills it with more tea. Much to Wanderer’s displeasure.

“- and if you need anything to eat, a- any snacks or meals, I would be most honored to procure them for you, Your Grace!” Tubby continues, with you nodding along politely. It seems better to let her vent it out than to stop her, at this point.

“Tubby, would it be very troublesome to get a teapot realm for Their Grace?” the Traveler interjects, saving you from having to placate the bird adeptus once more. “It would be practical for them to have a place of residence while they stay in Teyvat.”

“O- of course!” Tubby nods so quickly you almost fear that her hat will fly off her head. “I can contact Streetwise Rambler posthaste! If you have any preference in shape or colour, Your Grace-” 

“Anything you might have readily available is alright with me,” you reassure her. “As long as it has space to accommodate multiple guests, I don’t mind too much what the outside of it looks like.”

“T- that can be arranged!” the teapot spirit exclaims, topping up everyone’s cups before disappearing in a puff of smoke.

The three of you stare awkwardly at the space where Tubby used to be. Eventually, Wanderer gets up and disappears into the mansion, effectively trading places with Paimon as the little sprite returns from within after apparently having raided the Traveler’s pantry.

“Hey!” She exclaims through a mouthful of cookies. “Where did Tubby go? Did you guys drink all the tea?”

“She just went to get a teapot for Their Grace!” the Traveler explains, snatching a package of cookies from Paimon’s tiny hands, to the sprite’s protests. “She should be back soon. I can pour the tea for you, if you want.”

You sit back and enjoy the mindless chatter between the two, and sometime later Wanderer emerges from the mansion with several boxes stacked in his arms. The Traveler jumps up with a noise of surprise.

“Hey! What’s all that stuff?”

“I’m moving out.” Wanderer states, as though it’s obvious. 

“Good riddance!” Paimon says, waving a biscuit at him threateningly. “It’s about time you moved out, young man! How are you supposed to learn about the human world if you’re cooped up in the Traveler’s realm all the time? Go outside and touch grass!”

“There’s grass in the realm, Paimon,” the Traveler points out. 

“Argh! You know what I mean!”

“Of course, I’ll be moving in with the Creator, ” Wanderer continues as if Paimon hadn’t spoken at all. “Someone needs to keep the other two clowns in check so they don’t wreck the nice home Their Grace will surely build.”

“And that someone couldn’t be anyone else?” you ask, and immediately cringe when his piercing eyes turn toward you.

He huffs with amusement. “Nobody knows them better than me,” he shrugs and shakes his head. “Plus, who knows what my second incarnation will get up to? We don’t know how Irminsul resolved his appearance in this world, so he may yet be part of the Fatui, for all we know.”

“If he’s like you after the Joruri workshop fight, y’know, after you lost the gnosis and all? He’ll probably be weak and powerless,” Paimon says. “Just completely incapable of fighting in any meaningful way. Yes offense.”

“Offense taken.” Wanderer replies with the same tone, shooting a glare at the sprite over his shoulder. “I’ll have you know I’m more than capable of wiping the floor with you, with or without a gnosis.”

“You realize you’re bragging about your ability to beat up the physical equivalent of a two year old?” you interrupt before they could start arguing. They both send you equally scandalized looks, and Paimon splutters and mimes stomping as she tries to defend herself from the accusation of being a child. 

“Guys, let’s all calm down for a second,” the Traveler sighs, rubbing their head just as Paimon launches herself at Wanderer and knocking over cups and the magic tea kettle, and Wanderer fends her off with one hand, balancing his stack of boxes with his other arm. He swings around to avoid her tiny fists, knocking over the table and chairs in the process as he dances out of her reach.

 “Guys, seriously! Tubby will be back any minute now-”

Just as the words leave their mouth, the adeptus in question suddenly reappears with a lovely little porcelain teapot in her wing-hands. She takes in the scene, of you and the Traveler standing with your arms outstretched to restrain, and Paimon and Wanderer having a spat amidst the wreck of her tea set and furniture.

With a choked gasp, she promptly drops the new teapot.

----- ⚘ -----

After some profuse apologies on everyone’s part, Tubby repairs your new teapot and her furniture with her adeptus magic. She hands you the teapot with reverence, quickly running you through how the Realm Within works (even though you already know) and then ushering you out of the Traveler’s teapot excitedly.

“I hope you like it!” Tubby chirps, feathers fluffed with happiness. “Your teapot spirit is a good friend of mine, I’m sure he will take excellent care of your realm!” 

You and Wanderer are ejected from the realm, finding yourselves standing in the glowing Irminsul chamber, outside the Traveler’s golden teapot with the stack of boxes and your porcelain teapot. Somewhere in the distance, you can hear Nahida speaking, likely addressing Scaramouche and Kabukimono.

“Okay! here goes nothing,” you exclaim, placing down the teapot reverently. You grab the realm dispatch that Tubby had given you, visually identical to the one you remember seeing in your game’s inventory but with a red and gold tassel.  You hold the strip of wood in your palm and allow yourself to attune to the magic inside it. 

Despite not feeling any different after a few moments, you hand over the dispatch to Wanderer, who attunes as well. Once the process is complete, the two of you place your palms against the sides of your teapot and allow yourselves to be warped to the new realm.

Immediately upon appearing in the realm, which you notice is modelled after the same landscape theme as the Traveler’s, a cheerful little basketball-sized grey and yellow teapot spirit floats up to you.

The spirit, looking very much like the little cockatiel-coloured finches from the overworld, greets you with a happy whistle. Where Tubby and Chubby are usually sitting in a fancy teapot-shaped vessel, this one is sitting in a small, but equally ornate, teacup. 

“Hi! Hello! Are you my new master?” the tiny adeptus chitters, clapping his wing feathers together. “I’m your teapot spirit! I’m so happy to meet you!” 

“Oh great, another one.” Wanderer snorts, then pushes past you and into the mansion with his boxes. You gently hold the teapot spirit to avoid him getting knocked back by the motion.

“Don’t mind him, he’s not very social,” you tell the finch, who looks up at you with adoration. “How about you tell me about yourself?”

The finch reluctantly extracts himself from your hands and floats in front of you, feathers twisting shyly.

“Th- this one doesn’t have many interesting things to tell,” he admits. “Not like Rain Calmer and Jade Seeker… This one hasn’t even been granted a small-name yet…” 

“Oh…” you reach out and pat his head. “That’s okay, I can give you a nickname if you really want one.” 

“Will you?” the finch gasps, and surely if beaks could smile…

“That can wait for a minute,” Wanderer calls from the mansion’s front door, leaning against the open door frame. “Can we get some furniture in here first? This place is emptier than Dottore’s soul.” 

“Oh! Of course!” The teacup spirit hurriedly follows Wanderer into the mansion, with you trailing behind them at a slower pace.

As you walk through the mansion, a collection of Inazuman and Sumerian-style furniture begins popping up around you. You follow Wanderer as he moves from room to room, decorating the first one in purely Inazuman decor, the second with a blend of Inazuman and Shneznayan furniture, and the last with simple Sumerian amenities. Satisfied, Wanderer dumps all his boxes on the floor of the third room.

“Okay, great.” He nods at the nervous finch, then points at the door. “Now you guys, get out.” 

You beat a hasty retreat with the teacup spirit in your hands, just barely making it out before Wanderer slams the door behind you. You peer down at the little finch, trying to smile in an encouraging way.

“How about we check out the other rooms while he settles in, shall we?” You offer, and the teacup spirit nods enthusiastically. 

You deck out the remaining rooms with whatever nation’s theme inspires the teacup spirit’s artistic expression. For your own room, the last one you two decide to tackle, you choose a mix of all the nations’ furnishings. It creates a bit of an aesthetic mess, but it seems fitting to want a piece of each place. 

You clap excitedly for the little finch, who blushes fiercely and coos under your attention. 

“Aw, shucks,” he warbles. “I was just doing my job…”

“Nah, you did great, bud!” You reassure him, patting his fluffy head again. “Now, how about that nickname, huh?”

“Wow, really?” 

“Sure thing! How about, hmm…”

You squint at the teacup spirit, thinking really hard about a potential nickname. You know Tubby and Chubby’s nicknames aren’t really related to their adepti names, but it still would seem helpful to have something to go off of…

“... Cup…” You mutter to yourself, eyeing his little teacup seat, and the finch spirit perks up at the sound.

“Hm?” The adeptus makes an adorable noise of confusion, head tilted to one side as it eagerly awaits your final decision.

“... Cuppy.” You finally say, more confidently. The newly named Cuppy vibrates with excitement. “Yeah, I kinda like that. Well, nice to meet you, Cuppy!”

“Wow! Thank you so much!!” Cuppy exclaims, crashing into you and doing his utmost to hug you with his stubby little wings. “I’ll cherish this name forever!”

“That has to be among the dumbest names I’ve ever heard, Your Grace,” Wanderer’s voice sounds behind you, and you turn around to stick your tongue out at him. 

“W-wait, Your Grace?” Cuppy suddenly lets go of you with a gasp. “You’re the Creator?!”

Before you can say anything in reply, the poor teacup spirit promptly faints in your arms. You quickly make sure Cuppy is alright before giving Wanderer the most exaggerated frown you can muster.

“What? Don’t look at me like that,” he scoffs. “That's what you get for picking such a stupid name.”

“Says the guy who came up with ‘country destroyer’,” you retort. 

“It sounded cool at the time!” Wanderer snaps, clearly embarrassed by his past self’s taste.

“Maybe for a ten year old.”

“Well of course it sounds dumb in Common, in Inazuman it’s a lot better.”

“Sure, keep telling yourself that.”

----- ⚘ -----

You and Wanderer exit the realm after Cuppy wakes up again, and you comfort the teacup spirit by telling him that you’re not mad at him and that he’d done nothing to displease you. Reassured, but only barely, Cuppy tearfully accepts your praise and promises not to let you down. 

You resurface in the Irminsul chamber for a second time, to the hilarious scene of Nahida restraining both Scaramouche and Kabukimono within glowing green cubes a few feet above the ground. Scaramouche is beating against the transparent walls and furiously shouting, from what you can tell since the cubes appear to be soundproof. Kabukimono is sitting in the far corner of his cube, sulking with his arms crossed.

“- and that’s why it’s important to try and let go of any leftover resentment you harbor toward one another,” Nahida appears to be mid-lecture, wrapping up one of her points as she addresses the two puppets. “Otherwise you will fill up with anger and anxiety like a glass of water that is overflowing, and you will eventually release the surface tension and spill all your negative emotions and make a huge mess that everyone else will have to deal with. You may not realize this now, but the result of your quarrel will be very tiresome to those around you. If you spill water on a very important research paper, or a valuable book, or even a quick pencil drawing on a napkin, you will create irreparable harm to those you have affected, no matter how big or small the consequence appears to be.”

“The metaphor got away from you again, Buer.” Wanderer decides he’s heard enough and brings his hand down on the small god’s head, patting her. She looks up at him with a patient smile.

“Wanderer, Your Grace! Have you sorted out the living arrangements?” She asks cheerfully, releasing the Dendro cubes and allowing the puppets in time-out to drop to the floor in ungraceful heaps. 

“We did!” You confirm with equal enthusiasm. “We even have a nice teapot adeptus named Cuppy who helped us out with the decorating and everything!”

“That’s wonderful!” Nahida nods and gestures to Scaramouche and Kabukimono to approach, which they do with some measure of caution. Especially on the Balladeer’s part. He eyes Nahida with newfound suspicion, making sure she doesn’t perform any more Dendro abilities on him.

“Are we going to teleport into your new house?” Kabukimono asks, eyeing the porcelain teapot with intrigue. “The same way you and the Traveler teleported earlier?”

“That’s right, you just need to hold this piece of wood for a minute so that the realm magic recognizes and authorizes you as a guest,” you tell him, holding out the dispatch. Kabukimono takes it delicately, staring at the dispatch with wide eyes even though nothing obvious happens.

After his minute is up, Scaramouche snatches the dispatch out of Kabukimono’s hands and grumbles in annoyance as he looks anywhere but at you guys, allowing the magic to attune to him as well.

Once everyone is ready, you bid Nahida a quick goodbye and show the two puppets how to use the teapot to teleport. As you feel yourself warp in, you watch their expressions.

Wanderer is the most composed, having grown used to teleporting thanks to the Traveler, while Kabukimono seems a little dizzy but not overly bothered. Scaramouche, on the other hand, looks positively nauseous, much to your amusement. 

The four of you land in varying degrees of balance on your feet, with Cuppy stuttering out a greeting and ushering you all into the mansion.

Kabukimono is most pleased with his room, plopping down onto the floor mat with a wide grin. An array of tools lines one of the walls, and the adjacent wall opens to a sheltered view of the outside and a small forge. You turn to look at Wanderer as an awestruck Kabukimono takes in his accommodations.

“... What?” Wanderer scowls when he notices your look. “I just know what he’d like, okay? Don’t think too hard about it.”

Scaramouche’s room is next, and he walks in a few paces, has a look around at the very specific combination of aesthetics, and then kicks the door shut in your face. You’re not sure what else you expected from him.

Wanderer’s room is last, and though you already saw it as he was having it customized, you have a quick peek into it.

The Sumeran decor, though relatively plain, is used to great effectiveness. A desk takes up half of the far wall, accompanied by a mostly empty bookshelf and a tall lamp. A few boxes are pushed against the bookcase, unopened so far but you can guess what the contents will be. On the other side is Wanderer’s dresser and bed, and while you know he doesn’t necessarily need to sleep it’s nice to know that he included a bit of comfort for himself anyway.

“Okay, see ya,” Wanderer says, but you interrupt him with a gentle tug on his sleeve. He looks at you with annoyance and mild confusion.

“Thanks for helping me with the decorating,” you half-whisper, a grin spreading across your face. “Who knew you had such good interior design taste?”

“Whatever,” Wanderer huffs and looks at the floor. “It’s just because I knew you would make a mess of it like you did in the Traveler’s teapot.”

“What? No I didn’t. My decorating was just fine!”

Wanderer rolls his eyes at you. “You have a room filled to the brim with random unrelated junk.”

“That’s my storage room,” you state matter-of-factly. “I needed to reach a certain level of adeptal energy to get the maximum currency reward.”

“You say that as if I know what you’re talking about.” Wanderer deadpans and crosses his arms. “It’s still just a room of junk to me.”

“Fine! I see how it is.” You throw your hands up in amused outrage and stomp out of the room. “I guess decorating is your problem from now on, since you’re so good at it or whatever.”

Wanderer nods with a satisfied smirk. “As it should be,” he says before pushing his door closed.

[plumbobbro]

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[byfireflies]

some stardew valley arts

individual doodles down below!!

so this is cherry, and she is my second farmer ever, actually!! the first one i kind of sped through romancing sam in my first save and am now a bit broke in the middle of the first year’s winter, so i wanted to take things slower and explore things more, and also focus more on farming and building up the town hall. she’s probably gonna romance alex, but im hoping to build friendships with most of the characters!

i imagine since she was in corporate work, cherry had a degree in journalism, and i like to think she still writes every now and then. also a connoisseur of art and lover of interior design!! i am trying so hard to make her little forest cabin look nice while also conserving money for upgrades OMG. i love stardew valley by the way and except doodles of all the other charactwrs soon :3

on top of that, i’ll also be doodling and talking about my own characters, as well as resident evil, hopefully more often. school is making me very busy and i am taking summer classes this year so i don’t expect to have much free time for the next maybeeeee 2 semesters? yeah

alright, thank you for popping by!! have a swell day/night and take care <333

[thearchmanofgreenfield]

TWHUTH LORE: The House on No 9, Allison Street

Description:

Located in Demonum Borough, the House on No 9, Allison Street is the current home of the Great House of Demon. It sits on the very center of Allison Street, being the only real house on the road with the every other house being a hollow facade. On the exterior, the house looks like a thin four story building with an elevated door and arched windows. On the interior, the house is a seven story manor comprised on several halls, lounges and other rooms. The house and the street first began construction in 485 AF and completed construction is 493 AF. Making the house and the street 141 years old as of the year 634 AF.

While the exact method which was used to create the house's odd dimensions is unknown it is thought that the house's exterior is a mere shell meant to act as a gateway to the real house which is contained in a plain of reality between the Mirror and the normal world known as Gray Space. And while records dating back to the house's construction are limited it is almost certain that it's creation involved the use of ancient Moorish magic thought to date back to the Days of the Woodland Folk in the Era Before the Flight (see: Introduction I)

History:

(Note: The following information is being abridged and para-phrased from the tome 'The History of House Demon' by Harwood Demon (528- 588 AF), Chapter 12: Allison's House)

The House on No 9 was first designed by the Lady Allison Demon, Baronette of Demonum (462- 539 AF). Lady Allison was the youngest sibling in the household of her father, Baron Walden Demon (433-484 AF). Having grown up in the ancestral Demon Estate on Sepalsworth Hill near the back end of Demonum her time there came to an abrupt end on the year 484 AF when, due to an ongoing conflict with the Order of Man, the Sepalsworth Estate was set ablaze on the night of 171st Day of 484. The event, known as the Torching of Old Sepalsworth lead to the deaths of the Baron Walden and his heir-apparent Henmilton Demon (457-484). Allison and her other old sibling, Darwin Demon (459- 531), survived. Following the fire and the ascension of Darwin as Baron of Demonum Allison was said to have officially begun the designing of the House on 485 AF at the age of 23 when she was stationed at the Demon's country Estate of Northmount Manor in the Baronies. Allison had been known for her incredible knowledge on the mathematical precision of structures her imagination when it came to shaping said objects having declined an invitation from the Order of the Intelligencia (see: The Organization of the Circle) years prior.

It is said Allison would spend 8.5 years constructing the house and the street with some tales implying she used secret Moorish Flame magic she had learned during either her stay at the ancient manor in Northmount or her time as a student with access to the secret archives of the College. But whatever the case, her goal had been for the street and the surrounding buildings to act as an unassuming cover in order to hide the house from future misfortune. The street would also ward away Hunters due to it not being listed as an official street under the Hatlynshire Government (see: Introduction II). Her brother would have the street named in her honor and the Demon Family would begin residing in it in the year 493. It has served as the official residence of the House of Demon ever since.

Footnotes: honestly at first I thought 141 years seemed like a pretty low number in terms of house age. But then I realized that by modern house standards that is positively ancient. And yes, according to the math Allison would be Lucian's great-great-great grandaunt. And yes I'll be incorporating more specific dates onto lore posts that take place after the Flight.

Anyways, any question? If so then please feel free to ask! Any other lore you'd like to know? Also feel free to ask. Thanks and cheerio! :D

Story -> They Who Hide Under Top Hats (TWHUTH)-on tumblr

Art -> BEST MEDIOCRE SKETCHES: SHOWCASE POST

Community -> TUMBLR COMMUNITY

MORE Art -> MORE EXPRESSION PRACTICE

(@harleyacoincidence)

[starstuddedevents]

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HOTEL FACILITIES:

SPA.

Everyday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

The experience at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, New Orleans is about more than relaxation; it is a way to connect with the French Quarter's mystical spirit, charming warmth, and defining essences. Signature treatments at our hotel day spa include a New Orleans-inspired Voodoo Ritual and an indulgent couple’s experience in a specially designed Couples Suite. Spread across 25,000 square feet, our hotel's spa is the largest in New Orleans and is appointed with 20 treatment rooms, a café and a boutique.

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Resistance Pool and Whirlpool

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Heated

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Local dining and musical traditions live on at The Ritz Carlton, New Orleans. Farm-to-table Louisiana cuisine, including shrimp and grits and bouillabaisse, is showcased at M Bistro restaurant. At Davenport Lounge, light fare and cocktails are served to the sounds of live jazz.

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Enjoy cocktails and light fare, as well as the sounds of resident musician Jeremy Davenport and his band Wednesday-Thursday 5:30PM - 9:30PM, Friday- Saturday 8:00PM - 12:00AM. In addition, Afternoon Tea is offered Saturday 11:00AM and 2:30PM.

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Rollaway beds permitted upon request

Cribs permitted: 1

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Terraces

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Courtyard & Fountain

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[thenordsarchitect]

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But the true magic of The Nords Architect lies in their ability to listen, understand, and translate their clients' visions into reality. By fostering a collaborative relationship, they delve into the heart of each project, exploring the client's preferences, lifestyle, and aspirations, before crafting a design that seamlessly integrates form and function. Please visit our Facebook page for further information.

As Bhubaneswar continues to evolve, the demand for exceptional interior design has never been greater. And in this landscape, The Nords Architect stands tall as the premier choice for those seeking to elevate their living and working spaces. With their unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, they have cemented their position as the go-to destination for design excellence in the city.

So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of transforming your interiors into a reflection of your unique style and personality, look no further than The Nords Architect. Let them be your guide in elevating Bhubaneswar's interiors, one breathtaking design at a time.

For more details, kindly visit at: www.thenordsarchitect.comE-mail or call us at: thenordsarchitect@gmail.com / +91 85960 67958

[iamheavenbound]

HeavenBound — Chapter Two: Unholy Alliance.

Matthew 7:15 — "Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves." --

    Night became day, and yet the sky was still dark.

    A groggy Lucius was awakened by the sound of morning doves; he’d fallen asleep against a tree, blade resting near him. The man had unsavory dreams– one of his past. He vividly remembered the church that raised him and the demons that desecrated it. God, how Lucius wished it was only a dream.

    Putting his traumatic thoughts on hold, Lucius got to his feet and hoisted his sword over his shoulder again. He began to tread through the field, his route demon-free, until he stumbled upon a remote, humbly-constructed, and worn-down town interconnected with dirt paths. The town was quiet– save for the songs of praise which rang from the disproportionately-sized place of worship in its center.

    Lucius had encountered a town of people in the middle of a church gathering. This was a town of faithful men, women, and children, just like the one he grew up around. Lucius thought, no, he knew that this many people gathered at once is bound to attract demons, so he’d attend; not out of his beliefs, but out of the unholy ones he could potentially take his blade to.

    As he made his way to the church doors, he noticed the town’s residents outside of their homes giving him fearful looks, as though he was in danger. Something was off. He attempted to speak to one of the inhabitants, but they shelled up, mentioning not speaking to outsiders in the name of the Lord. This piqued the demon hunter’s interest, and so he continued towards the place of holiness.

    Lucius finally approached the church doors, pushed them open, and was greeted by the mood lift of a singing choir and the beautiful sight of its bedazzled interior. It helped a little, but it still reopened old wounds. Nevertheless, the man took a seat in one of the rows unnoticed– perhaps they were too caught up in song. The doors, unbeknownst to Lucius, locked behind him and the cross affixed to the top of the church’s roof turned upside-down.

    Time passed, and the worshiping went from song to preach.

    “We gather here today to give our praise to God, who is our lord and savior. We give our praise to him because… demons ,” the pastor said with caution as to not offend the churchgoers by merely uttering that word, “will continue to walk amongst men if we don’t devote ourselves to His grace. If we continue to give praise to our everlasting and eternal God, then He will surely vanquish the demons from our lives, because His love will protect us all. Can I get an amen, people?”

    The church then erupted with amen! , but Lucius was the only one who didn’t join them. He admired the people’s hope and faith, but he knew what the pastor was preaching was not true. He learned a long time ago that there is no savior. There is no lord that loves humanity and will protect them from demons.

    Loud banging was heard on the locked doors, prompting the pastor to raise his voice in his preach with a look of worry on his face.

    “AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO PRAISE HIM! TO WARD OFF EVILS SUCH AS THE ONES OUTSIDE OF THIS CHURCH AS THIS VERY MOMENT! NOW, LET US BOW OUR HEADS FOR PRAYER.”

    And so the people–except for Lucius–did. 

    “DEAR FATH–”

    The preaching was then interrupted by the sound of glass being smashed; someone jumped through one of the roof’s painted glass designs. The churchgoers looked in awe, the pastor in horror, as the intruder dropped down and landed in front of the altar, silence sweeping across the entire room.

    Lucius assumed this was a demon in disguise–given the pastor’s panic–so he gripped his blade’s handle and rushed the intruder at the altar. He wasn’t going to let another place of gathering be massacred by a demon. Not if he can stop it.

    But it was too late.

    The intruder, without a moment’s hesitation, brandished a pistol, aimed it at the man’s face, and pulled the trigger, letting off a shot that broke the silence and silenced the pastor. Gunsmoke trailing from the intruder’s barrel, the blood of a saint had been splattered across the altar.

    Lucius could only watch as the man of faith was assassinated. But, his human appearance faded away as fast as his life did, revealing that the pastor was a demon in disguise.

    The intruder turned to Lucius, noticed the sword in hand, and warned him:

  “Get ready to fight. This is a trap.”

    On cue, the atmosphere–on a dime–shifted from upbeat to malicious as the churchgoers stared at the dead demonic pastor in horror, and then at Lucius and the intruder with homicidal intent.

    Their cover had been blown.

    The religious men, women, and children’s human disguises faded away as well, revealing their hellish appearances. Lucius and the intruder had been stuck in a tight space full of demons– there had to be 15 of them.

    The demon hunter stared down the choir of devils as they swiftly enclosed the pair. He couldn’t wait to rend their flesh. The intruder stood back-to-back with him.

    “Are you ready?”

    “Yeah,” Lucius replied, barely able to contain his morbid excitement, “duck.”

    “What?”

    His blade’s hilt had two hands on it before Lucius spun around on his heel, to which the intruder reacted with a surprised yelp and a hurried crouch. As he spun like a bladed vortex–with a deranged laugh escaping his lips–Lucius lopped the heads off the five closest demons at once, much to the rest of the crowd’s rage.

    The moment Lucius ceased wheeling around with his sword, another demon caught hold of Lucius’s arm and chucked him–his sh0ulder making a POP sound–into a wall, putting a hole in it with a CRASH! sound. Pain rang throughout the man’s body as he struggled to recover to his feet, and devils rushed him still. Worse yet, the demon dislocated the shoulder of his dominant arm.

    The creature which threw Lucius then turned to face the now-standing intruder, who promptly hit his face with a gunshot. The bullet didn’t end there, however; it drove through that demon’s face, ricocheted off the wall behind it, whizzed past the intruder’s face, and burrowed into the skull of the demon that attempted to maul him from behind.

    Lucius refused to die here. Not like this. The warmth of his blood slicking down his face combined with the pain of a dislocated shoulder only reinvigorated his determination. So, he took hold of his blade’s handle once more, and charged forth with his large sword held out in front of him. Like a rhinoceros with a sword for a horn, he gored each demon that attempted to rush him, each one stacking onto each other–a demon shish kabob–before pinning them all into the opposite side of the room’s wall. He made sure to twist the blade once they were pinned for added pain. The demonic shrieking that escaped each of their lips was music to his ears.

    And so Lucius had killed five more demons.

    The intruder took a bullet from his clothing and reloaded his gun with it. Now, two demons approached– one in front, and one behind. In response, he brandished a dagger and fed it to the jugular of the monster behind him. He then shot the brain matter out of the demon in front’s head, spilling blood and thoughts on the unholy place’s ground.

    With the last shot, the intruder soundly concluded the battle and silence fell over the church once more.

    The pastor killer retrieved his knife from a demon’s neck and stepped over the rest of their fading bodies strewn about to approach Lucius.

    “Hey, you okay? Saw you get thrown into a wall,” he mentioned while pointing at the Lucius-sized hole in the church’s wall. “Could’ve died, y’know?”

    Ignoring the man’s jest, Lucius replied with a pained grunt, “Yeah, I’m fine, but you missed one,” while motioning behind the intruder with his sword.

    An exasperated huff and the intruder spun around before hurling his knife at a demon that ran at them, creating a THNK! sound as it plunged into its forehead. With that, every demon within the church had been definitively slain.

    He swiveled back around and faced Lucius.

    “Name’s Noel. N-O-E-L. Means ‘birth’. Say, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re a demon hunter like me. I mean, the way you turned those demons into a shish kabob? Awesome. If you aren’t, though, you should really consider it–”

    “Lucius,” he bluntly interrupted, “I’m also a demon hunter.”

    “Cooool,” Noel replied. “Soo, what brought you here? If I were a betting man, I’d say you didn’t know that this church was actually a soul-taking cult that takes advantage of people’s faiths. Yooouuu,” Noel trailed off as his glance traced the fading demon bodies littered among them, “probably figured something along those lines, right?”

    Noel’s mannerisms starkly contrasted Lucius’s; the man appeared to be upbeat and fast-talking with a lot to say, whereas Lucius is brooding and concise with his words. The latter realized this early on; he’s talking to a hyperactive chatterbox. 

    “I figured as much,” Lucius responded with a distant tone coupled with labored breathing, focused on his injuries rather than the conversation.

    “Yeah, duh. Anyway, this used to be a town of regular-degular people. But the pastor had all his followers give him their souls in exchange for ‘salvation’, when he was really a demon. Side note: I know this because a person who escaped this cult told me. And when they turned in their souls, that turned them into demons as we– ohhh, shit.”

    In the middle of Noel’s lengthy explanation, Lucius succumbed to his injuries and fell to unconsciousness, the sound of heavy weight being dropped on a wooden floor echoing throughout the church.

[myfuckingbudapestmovie]

Legacy of 1930s Elegance: Budapest’s Timeless ‘Dugattyús House’ on Margi...

Budapest sci-fi építészete: a Dugattyús-ház a Margit körúton

Weiss Manfréd Vállalatok Elismert Nyugdíjintézete

1024 Budapest, II. kerület

"Legacy of 1930s Elegance: Budapest’s Timeless ‘Dugattyús House’ on Margit körút"

The "Dugattyús House" at 15-17 Margit körút, also known as the "Piston House," is one of Budapest’s most iconic residential buildings, capturing the spirit of 1930s modernist architecture. Designed by Ferenc Domány and Béla Hofstätter, this luxury apartment complex was completed in 1938 for the Weiss Manfréd Corporation’s pension fund, embodying the era’s elegance and forward-thinking design.

The building stands out for its sleek, circular glass elevators, expansive staircases, and remarkable views. Its construction was part of a larger urban renewal program initiated after WWI, aimed at modernizing Budapest’s inner-city areas. A 1934 tax law incentivized building new structures by offering generous tax exemptions for developers who tore down older, single-story homes and replaced them with high-density, multi-story buildings. Margit körút fell into the top tax-exempt zone, meaning that builders could avoid property taxes for 15 years and continue receiving 75% tax reductions even after that period, leading to a wave of modern apartments in the area.

The architectural style of the Dugattyús House is marked by horizontal lines of banded windows and solid parapets, complemented by the building’s round edges and large balconies. The lower floors are clad in travertine, while the upper stories are finished with sandstone, giving the facade a luxurious and cohesive look. Inside, marble-lined lobbies and restored original fixtures reflect the building’s high standards. Original features, such as lighting fixtures and rare wood paneling with a checkerboard pattern in the stairwells, were reconstructed to preserve the authentic aesthetic.

The residence attracted Budapest’s social elite, from aristocrats and high-ranking professionals to industrial magnates. Notable residents included engineers, doctors, and even a retired Minister of the Interior. The building’s few single-room apartments meant that this was no place for solitary individuals—most tenants were families or prominent professionals. It also housed influential figures from the textile and milling industries, which were closely connected to the Weiss family’s business empire.

The "Dugattyús House" remains a powerful example of Budapest’s architectural heritage, showcasing the city’s transition into a modern metropolis. Its blend of innovative design, social history, and luxury living has left an indelible mark on the cityscape.

Dugattyús Ház #budapestépítészete #Budapest

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

From Mako Shark to Manta Ray: The Evolution of the Most Influential Corvette Concepts

Published: 14 Nov 2022, 16:04 UTC • By: 

During the 1960s, General Motors introduced a trio of stunning show cars that laid the groundwork for the C2 and C3 Corvette. Although many other concepts followed, these three remain the most influential, as they went on to inspire the styling of modern iterations, including the current, mid-engine C8.

Like the Corvette itself, the notion of a concept (or show) car was born in the U.S., under GM’s roof. Dubbed Buick Y-Job and designed by the legendary Harley J. Earl, the drop-top beauty unveiled in 1940 previewed a series of novel features and design cues that influenced the division’s mass-produced models for over a decade.

When GM decided to build a rival for the European sports cars that were flooding the North American market in the post-WWII years, the same Harley J. Earl was selected to draw it up. To build hype around it, the corporation commissioned Earl and the Chevy team to build a show car which was codenamed EX-122. First shown to the public at the 1953 Motorama in New York City, the concept would become known as the Corvette and with a few minor changes, it entered production a few months later.

Contrary to popular belief, the C1 wasn’t the commercial success that GM had envisioned but it did pique the American buyer’s interest in a homebuilt sportscar, so the corporation poured resources into the development of a successor.

Under the supervision of Styling and Design head Bill Mitchell, the new Corvette’s design was ironed out as early as 1961 and, as they did in the past, the team created a show car that would help promote it. Like the upcoming production version, the vehicle was designed by Larry Shinoda, who drew inspiration from the 1959 XP-87 Stingray racer.

Gone was the curvaceous, European-looking theme of the C1, with the ‘Vette’s body now boasting far more aggressive lines that look like the sleek shortfin mako shark. Although it was officially codenamed XP-755, the concept car unveiled at the 1962 International Automobile Show would become known as the Mako Shark due to its unmistakable resemblance to the fast-moving predator.

One aspect that contributed to this was the car’s spectacular paintwork. Legend has it that, upon returning from a fishing trip with a taxidermized shark head (some reports state that it was a complete shark) as a trophy, Bill Mitchell hung it in his office and instructed the design team to replicate its coloring on the show car.

Several attempts to make such an impossible task possible were made but Mitchell was not satisfied. The styling head would put the trophy next to the car and since the paint was not identical, he instructed the team to try again. Annoyed by this, an unnamed member of the team snuck into Mitchell’s office one night, took his beloved trophy, and airbrushed it to look like the car’s latest paint job. In the end, the boss couldn’t tell the difference and, since the car and the shark now looked the same, he finally gave his frustrated team the thumbs up.

The Mako Shark managed to draw enough interest in the C2 as it became a fan favorite at every event where it was showcased. It underwent styling and detail changes over time, gaining front fascia and interior upgrades. The car also lost the distinctive "double-bubble" canopy borrowed from a previous concept and became a pure convertible.

Apart from the unique paint and several flamboyant design cues, its overall styling made it to the mass-produced model. which became the commercial hit that its predecessor never was.

Unlike other GM concepts that were eventually destroyed, the original Shark is still alive and well, residing in the corporation’s Heritage Collection located in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Just a few years after the debut of the Mako Shark, the Corvette team began work on the third-generation model which would roll out the factory gates in 1967. While the mid-engine format proposed by Zora Arkus-Duntov with his race-bred CERV II concept was considered, Bill Mitchell's conventional front-engine design was deemed more marketable by GM’s top brass.

Under the codename XP-830, the development of a new concept car kicked off in early 1964 with the C2’s existing chassis as the base. For the C3, Mitchell wanted "a narrow, slim, center section and coupe body, a tapered tail, an all-of-a-piece blending of the upper and lower portions of the body through the center (avoiding the look of a roof added to a body), and prominent wheels with their protective fenders distinctly separate from the main body, yet grafted organically to it.”

Turning this vision into reality took about a year to pull off. Mitchell’s designers completed a full-size, non-running version in March 1965, and days later, key members of GM’s management were invited to see it. Everyone was blown away and unanimously decided that it had to go into production as soon as possible.

Finished in a similar paint and carrying the same Mako Shark moniker as the XP-755, the non-functional concept was first shown to the public at the New York International Auto Show just a month later. While its exterior design was praised by everyone, its futuristic interior received a lot of criticism for ergonomically-nightmarish such as the yoke-style steering wheel with its complicated transmission controls.

Behind closed doors, the development team was working on a running model that would address these issues and in October 1965, it made its public debut in France, at the Paris Auto Show. Powered by the highly successful and versatile 427 version of Chevy’s Mark IV big block, the functional Mako Shark II had rear-exiting exhausts -as opposed to the static model’s side-mounted variants – and a conventional steering wheel with column-fitted transmission controls.

Although it’s unquestionably the most influential concept car to ever don Corvette badges, shaping the look of America’s popular sports car for generations to come, the story of the second Shark, in either non-functional or functional form, didn’t have a happy ending. Unlike its predecessor which enjoys retirement on top of a pedestal inside GM’s Heritage Collection, the static version was dismantled while the running model was transformed into another show car.

This leads us to the third most influential Corvette concept. Completed in 1969 it left the Mako Shark name behind (but not the now-iconic paint) and became known as the Manta Ray.

Its front fascia remained largely the same, with the only additions being an extended bumper ring around the vents and a chin spoiler mounted underneath.

On the sides, the Manta Ray featured functional exhausts that were masterfully integrated into rocker panels, but its most distinct upgrade was the profusely elongated, tail. The now-classic four taillights layout was tucked under the rear deck line and a pair of pop-up flaps that reflected light from upward-facing lamps were added. You can see rare footage of them in action below, thanks to the video posted on YouTube by DtRockstar1

The reshaped tail flowed into a sweeping, scooped-out, stinger-style roof that helped accentuate the aggressiveness of the overall design. Speaking of aggressiveness, the car was powered by the newly introduced ZL1 427-ci (7.0-liter) V8, a lightweight, all-aluminum monster that could spit out no less than 430 hp.

Even if the Mako Shark II had to be sacrificed to build it, the Manta Ray was in itself a work of automotive art that captivated the hearts and minds of sports car enthusiasts. Thankfully, after its transformation, GM decided to keep it and it joined the first Shark in the corporation’s Heritage Collection.

Many other concept cars that carried the Corvette nameplate followed in the next five decades, but none were as pure nor as influential as these three. They inspired the look of every mass-produced Corvette generation that followed, including the current and radically different C8. 

[nfcrent]

Dubai is a city known for its opulence, grandeur, and breathtaking skyline. To match the extravagant lifestyle of this metropolis, luxury car rental services are in high demand, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to cruise in style. Whether you're in town for a vacation, business trip, or a special event, renting a luxury car is the perfect way to enhance your experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits, popular models, and tips for finding the best luxury car rental in Dubai.

Why Choose Luxury Car Rental in Dubai?

Experience Ultimate Comfort and Style: Driving a premium vehicle like a Rolls-Royce or a Lamborghini ensures a memorable and luxurious experience. From handcrafted leather interiors to advanced entertainment systems, luxury cars provide top-tier comfort and performance.

Make a Statement: Whether for a wedding, business meeting, or simply a night out, arriving in a high-end car makes a bold impression. Dubai’s elite culture appreciates sophistication, and a luxury car ensures you fit right in.

Explore Dubai with Ease: The city’s vast roads, highways, and desert landscapes call for a vehicle that offers both power and convenience. Renting a luxury car allows you to explore iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina in style.

Top Luxury Cars Available for Rent in Dubai

Rolls-Royce Ghost & Phantom: Perfect for formal events or business travel, these models offer timeless elegance and unmatched comfort.

Ferrari Portofino & SF90 Spider: For those seeking adrenaline-fueled drives, Ferrari’s sleek and powerful sports cars provide a thrilling ride along Dubai’s highways.

Lamborghini Huracan & Urus: Whether you prefer the speed of a coupe or the versatility of an SUV, Lamborghini offers vehicles designed to turn heads.

Mercedes Maybach S680: Ideal for business travelers, this car combines luxury with innovation, making every ride a first-class experience.

Bentley Continental GT & Flying Spur: Bentley’s vehicles are synonymous with sophistication, offering smooth rides for both city and desert roads.

Tips for Renting a Luxury Car in Dubai

Book in Advance: Dubai attracts tourists year-round, and luxury cars are in high demand. Booking your car rental in advance ensures you get the model of your choice.

Choose a Reputable Rental Service: Look for companies that have good reviews and offer well-maintained vehicles. NFC Rent, for instance, provides a wide selection of luxury cars with premium service.

Check Insurance and Documents: Ensure the rental service provides full insurance coverage and that you have all necessary documents, including your driving license and passport.

Compare Prices and Offers: Some rental services offer special packages, including chauffeur services or discounts for long-term rentals. Make sure to explore available deals before finalizing your booking.

Understand the Rental Policies: Different companies have varying fuel policies, mileage limits, and deposit requirements. Make sure you understand these terms to avoid surprises later.

Luxury Car Rental with NFC Rent

At NFC Rent, we pride ourselves on providing an exceptional luxury car rental experience. Our fleet includes the latest models from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, and more. Whether you need a car for a special event or a weekend adventure, we ensure seamless service from start to finish. With competitive pricing and a commitment to customer satisfaction, NFC Rent is your go-to solution for luxury car rental in Dubai.

Conclusion

Renting a luxury car in Dubai is more than just a mode of transport; it’s an experience that complements the city’s extravagant lifestyle. With a variety of high-end cars to choose from and professional rental services like NFC Rent, you can drive in comfort and style during your stay. So, why wait? Elevate your Dubai experience by cruising the streets in the car of your dreams!

[lonelimbless]

Legends of the Meadow

Part 1: Characters

Part 2: Settings & Locations (You're Here)

Part 3: The Meadows Origins (Pre-Story)

Part 4: The Story

Part 5: Afterthoughts & Trivia

~~~

To be fair, trying to come up with a map for the AU was difficult since I wouldn't really consider map making a speciality of mine but nonetheless, I'm still proud with how it turned out. I think I was able to get this out there with my ideas.

I tried to fit much into a can within the canvas size. Just some important stuff that I need to say is that Hollow Heart is suppose to be far away than it is depicted and the Kingdom is actually high above in the skies. The white and black bridges at Newt Wetlands and the Tundra are actually docks w/ boats.

The map mainly takes aspects from Rayman 2's archipelago w/ elements of Rayman 3 & Origins/Legends sprinkled in, mainly 2 and 3 having more of a general focus.

Ashlen & Gnarr’s Home: Built upon the foundation of a broken warship left behind by the Steelrens, it proved to be a much better improvement from their old home after alot of adjustments here and there. It was mostly thanks to Luno and his family lending a helping hand.

It is a two-story home that includes two bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and basically every room that a home needs. The bedrooms are on the top floor; Ashlen's room is alot more vibrant while Gnarr's is more standard but he does has potted plants and a study corner. Ashlen literally has walls coated with posters, string lights, and a storage bed, which helps with sorting out items and valuables she collects.

Gnarr has a small outside garden at the frontyard, next to the stone slabs.

Goblin Grotto: The home of Bean and the Goblins. It is surrounded by a mossy groves that will slowly lead into the grotto section. The grotto has alot of tunnel systems and dens where the Goblins travel and rest respectfully. It has a bunch of flora from both the inside and outside with vines lying about.

Unlike most places in the Meadow, the Goblins don't have an official "leader", they work together in packs as they are often targeted by dark fairies and other hostile enemies.

The Kingdom of Embers: The home of Zorin and the Dracogriffs. They are a floating kingdom that is very bright and advanced, nearly futuristic in design. The castle remains in the center surrounded by houses and markets, with a river circling around a statue of the king with a Lum Shard hidden away within. This statue is heavily guarded for this reason and many events centered around the statue, mainly coronations.

The kingdom has a couple of floating islands that have to be flown across. The only way you can access the kingdom from the ground is through the hidden portal. This portal has narrow platforming, which is intentional.

Tundra of the Knaaren: This is the Desert of the Knaaren but it is a frozen wasteland of the sorts, and always freezing. The interior is literally made out of the combination of ice and stone. They have a boat tucked away by the edge of the area, which is coated in a sleet of ice.

Cave of Bad Dreams / No Hope Cavern: There's not much different between this version and the original, but it's mostly more nightmarish, vast, and nearly barren by the feel.

Hollow Heart: Also known as "Hoodlum HQ" or The Dark Island; As the name implies, it's where the Heart of the World is located. It is an extremely dangerous location as its crawling with armed hoodlums. It's incredibly dark and foggy with hoodlum settlements and heavy machinary scattered around. Most of the island is comprised of metallic parts, some reaped from the Metal Boneyards.

Grundtown: An underground town/city that has been closed off from the rest of the Meadow. It has a built-in light source that gives life to the town. Grundtown has a town meeting center where the mayor gives out announcements and it's noticably formed to give distance from the residents and the mayor.

They usually have specific members to act as guards/gatherers; only they know about the outside world and are strictly limited about giving out information to anyone else besides the mayor and other higher ups.

Silverline Haven: Between Ashlen's home and Newt Wetlands is Silverline Haven, where it doubles as a village and a trading center. Ashlen, Gnarr, and even Luno are frequent visitors; Ashlen would commonly make trades with items she had stolen and do other activities. Elise also makes occasional visits here whenever she is off-duty.

Silverline Haven started off small at the start until after the invasion, where they reconstructed and become more lively than ever and holds a peaceful atmosphere along with it.

Newt Wetlands: Luno and his family's home; they lived in many stilt houses to support the big family, all with connecting bridges from each house. Luno, however, resides in a shack among the edge. There is also a fishing docks among the wetlands with a boat included.

Metal Boneyard: Also known as the Junkyard and, much like Silverline Haven, was the result of the Steelren invasion aftermath. The area is littered with scrap metal and parts; before then, it took place in an average, spooky forest. This place is looked upon as just as dangerous as Hollow Heart, if not worse. This is because it is seen as a hotspot for many dark fairies AND hoodlum sightings.