#USA DMC

[k-i-l-l-e-r-b-e-e-6-9]

RUN DMC - Walk This Way

[alex-finechi-is-back]

✨ Tits ✨

[vintagevoiture]

Delorean. DMC 12

[alaxamost]

To explain how does a mexican and a brazilian feel about current world shit:

[dmc-tour-and-travel-service]

Explore Sri Lanka In just 12 Days

In just 12 days, set off on an incredible tour through the rich cultural legacy and varied landscapes of Sri Lanka. This itinerary has everything, from the lively fishing village of Negombo to the recognizable Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and from the tranquil Giritale to the fascinating Dambulla Caves. Explore Nuwara Eliya's lush woods and bird-watching paths, trek the picturesque Manigala Trail and Knuckles Mountain, and take in the unspoiled splendor of Ritigala Sanctuary. Discover the holy Adam's Peak, stroll through quaint towns, and see the Galle Fort and Lighthouse. Don't pass up this short journey that perfectly encapsulates Sri Lanka!

Visit HI DMC Sri Lanka to know more about Sri Lanka toursim.

[doculicious]

Run DMC “Christmas in Hollis”

RIP Jam Master Jay

[maximtours]

Unlock Your Ultimate Adventure: Discover the Best DMC in the USA!

Introduction:

When it comes to planning a memorable and seamless travel experience in the United States, partnering with a reliable Destination Management Company (DMC) is key. A DMC acts as your local expert, curating unique itineraries, coordinating logistics, and ensuring every aspect of your trip is executed flawlessly. In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the best DMC in the USA: Maxim Tours. Get ready to unlock your ultimate adventure and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

1. Understanding the Role of a DMC:

A Destination Management Company (DMC) is a professional service provider specialising in organising and managing all aspects of a traveller's visit to a particular destination. They possess extensive local knowledge, strong industry connections, and the expertise to design customised itineraries that cater to different interests and preferences.

2. Introducing Maxim Tours:

Maxim Tours stands out as one of the leading DMCs in the USA, renowned for their exceptional services and dedication to creating extraordinary travel experiences. With years of experience and a team of knowledgeable experts, Maxim Tours has established itself as a trusted partner for individual and group travellers.

3. Unparalleled Destination Expertise:

Maxim Tours' deep understanding of the United States allows them to craft bespoke itineraries that showcase its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're yearning for an adventure in the national parks, a cosmopolitan city getaway, or a cultural exploration, Maxim Tours has the expertise to curate the perfect itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

4. Customized Itineraries:

Maxim Tours believes in personalised experiences, and their team works closely with clients to design tailor-made itineraries. They consider your desired destinations, activities, accommodation preferences, budget, and any specific requests to create a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience.

5. Extensive Network of Suppliers:

As a reputable DMC, Maxim Tours has established strong relationships with an extensive network of suppliers, including hotels, transportation providers, local guides, and activity organisers. This network ensures that you receive top-notch services, exclusive access to attractions, and the best value for your investment.

6. Seamless Logistics and Event Management:

Maxim Tours excels in coordinating logistics and event management, ensuring a hassle-free experience for travellers. From airport transfers and transportation arrangements to venue selection and event planning, their team handles every detail precisely, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.

7. Dedicated Customer Support:

Maxim Tours prides itself on providing exceptional customer support throughout travel. Their friendly and knowledgeable team is available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns, ensuring peace of mind and prompt assistance whenever needed.

8. Sustainable and Responsible Tourism:

Maxim Tours strongly emphasises sustainable and responsible tourism practices. They strive to minimise travel's environmental impact and engage in community-based initiatives that contribute positively to local economies and cultures.

9. Testimonials and Client Satisfaction:

The success and credibility of Maxim Tours are evident through the testimonials and positive feedback received from satisfied clients. Their commitment to delivering exceptional experiences has resulted in many memorable journeys and lifelong memories for travellers.

10. Unlock Your Ultimate Adventure:

Choosing Maxim Tours as your DMC in the USA ensures that you unlock your ultimate adventure. From exploring iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon and Statue of Liberty to immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of cities like New York and San Francisco, Maxim Tours will curate a journey that exceeds your expectations and leaves you with unforgettable memories.

11. Extensive Range of Services: Maxim Tours offers a comprehensive range of services beyond itinerary planning. They can assist with hotel bookings, transportation arrangements, restaurant reservations, and ticketing for attractions and events. Their all-encompassing approach ensures a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

12. Multilingual Staff: Maxim Tours employs a team of multilingual professionals who are fluent in various languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and more. This language proficiency enables effective communication and enhances the overall experience for international travellers.

13. Insider Access and VIP Treatment: With Maxim Tours, you gain access to exclusive experiences and VIP treatment. They have established relationships with key partners, allowing for special access to attractions, private tours, and unique cultural experiences unavailable to the general public.

14. Professional Tour Guides: Maxim Tours employs knowledgeable and certified tour guides who are passionate about sharing their expertise and insights. These guides provide valuable commentary, historical context, and local anecdotes, enriching your travel experience and ensuring you make the most of every destination.

15. Flexibility and Adaptability: Maxim Tours understands that travel plans can change and are adept at adapting to unforeseen circumstances. Their flexibility allows for modifications to itineraries, accommodation arrangements, or transportation schedules, ensuring your trip is enjoyable and stress-free.

16. Group Travel Expertise: Maxim Tours specialises in organising group travel, from small private groups to large corporate delegations. They have the experience and resources to handle group logistics, accommodation, team-building activities, and specialized services tailored to each group's needs.

17. Technology Integration: Maxim Tours leverages technology to enhance the travel experience. They provide online booking platforms, mobile apps, and digital itineraries that offer real-time updates, interactive maps, and essential travel information, ensuring you have all the necessary details.

18. Safety and Security: Maxim Tours prioritizes the safety and security of its clients. It works closely with trusted suppliers who maintain high safety standards and stay updated on travel advisories and regulations. Maxim Tours has protocols in place to ensure your well-being in any emergency or unforeseen circumstances.

19. Specialized Theme-Based Tours: Maxim Tours offers specialised theme-based tours that cater to specific interests. Whether you're interested in culinary experiences, adventure activities, cultural immersion, or historical exploration, they can design a tour that aligns with your passion and provides an in-depth understanding of your chosen theme.

20. Repeat and Referral Clients: Maxim Tours has built a loyal customer base with many repeat and referral clients. The high level of satisfaction among their clients speaks to the quality of their services, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering memorable travel experiences.

Conclusion:

When it comes to planning your dream trip to the United States, partnering with the Best DMC is USA. Maxim Tours' unrivalled expertise, personalised itineraries, seamless logistics, and exceptional customer support make them the ideal choice for unlocking your ultimate adventure. With Maxim Tours as your trusted partner, you can rest assured that every aspect of your travel experience will be meticulously planned and executed, allowing you to focus on creating lifelong memories in the USA's captivating landscapes and vibrant cities. Embark on your journey with Maxim Tours and get ready to experience the trip of a lifetime.

[davebriggs007]

Classic

[deafeninginfluencernightmare]

Destination Management Companies in Europe: Navigating the Essence of Seamless Travel Experiences

In the dynamic landscape of the travel and tourism industry, Destination Management Companies (DMCs) play a pivotal role in orchestrating unforgettable experiences for travelers. Europe, with its rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and landscapes, stands as a prime destination for globetrotters. The demand for well-coordinated and immersive travel experiences has given rise to the prominence of Destination Management Companies in Europe. These companies serve as the architects of travel, seamlessly blending logistics, local expertise, and creativity to craft journeys that leave indelible memories.

[imgineeventsdmc]

Destination Management Companies in Sedona: Your Key to Exceptional Experiences | Imagine Events DMC

Welcome to the enchanting land of Sedona, Arizona, where the red rocks meet clear blue skies, and nature's beauty beckons travelers from far and wide. Nestled amidst the majestic canyons and awe-inspiring landscapes, Sedona is a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. While planning your dream getaway to this magical destination, you might wonder how to make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories. That's where Destination Management Companies in Sedona, one name stands out above the rest – Imagine Events DMC.

Understanding Destination Management Companies:

A Destination Management Company is a professional service provider that specializes in coordinating and managing all aspects of a trip or event for individuals or groups. Their expertise lies in ensuring seamless execution, offering local insights, and crafting unique experiences tailored to specific needs and preferences. DMCs have extensive knowledge of their destinations, which enables them to curate extraordinary experiences that go beyond ordinary tourist itineraries.

Imagine Events DMC: Elevating Your Sedona Experience:

Imagine Events DMC has earned a stellar reputation for being the premier Sedona DMC, catering to a diverse range of clients, from corporate groups to leisure travelers. With years of experience in the industry, they have developed an exceptional understanding of Sedona's hidden gems, allowing them to deliver an unrivaled experience to their clients.

1. Tailored Experiences:

One size doesn't fit all, and Imagine Events DMC understands this well. They take the time to understand their clients' interests, preferences, and objectives, crafting personalized itineraries that encompass the essence of Sedona. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures like hiking amidst the red rocks or prefer to immerse yourself in the region's rich Native American culture, Imagine Events DMC has you covered.

2. Expert Local Knowledge:

Imagine Events DMC's team consists of passionate locals who are deeply connected to Sedona's culture, history, and natural wonders. Their in-depth knowledge allows them to take you off the beaten path, revealing hidden spots and sharing captivating stories that enrich your experience. From selecting the best vantage points for stunning sunset views to recommending the finest dining establishments, their insights are invaluable.

3. Seamless Execution:

Planning a trip or event can be overwhelming, especially in an unfamiliar destination. With Imagine Events DMC, you can leave your worries behind. Their meticulous planning and attention to detail ensure that everything runs like clockwork. From transportation and accommodation to activity coordination, they handle it all, so you can focus on making the most of your time in Sedona.

4. Unforgettable Corporate Events:

Beyond leisure travelers, Imagine Events DMC is also the go-to choice for corporate groups seeking unique and impactful events. Whether you're organizing team-building exercises, conferences, or incentive trips, their creativity and expertise will leave a lasting impression on your team. They know how to strike the perfect balance between business and leisure, creating an atmosphere where connections thrive.

5. Emphasis on Sustainability:

Imagine Events DMC has a deep-rooted commitment to responsible tourism. They understand the importance of preserving Sedona's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Through sustainable practices and eco-friendly initiatives, they ensure that your experience doesn't come at the cost of the environment.

In conclusion, Imagine Events DMC sets the bar high when it comes to Destination Management Companies in Sedona. Their dedication to personalized experiences, expert local knowledge, seamless execution, and sustainable practices make them the ideal choice for elevating your Sedona adventure. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a corporate team, Imagine Events DMC will craft.

[c-40]

A-T-3 125 Run DMC - Sucker MC's

Sucker Mc's is the b-side of Run DMC's debut single and a pivotal record in hip hop. The most common line is 'it ushered in a new era of hip hop,' 'pioneering the new-school' and kick starting 'the drum machine era' (1983-1986) with its stripped down sound. It's been said to have introduced 'real hip hop' to audiences, 'saving hip hop from going stale' or becoming a passing fad. Fresh is the word and Run DMC were the first hip hop group to go platinum in the US, so the group themselves are also a marker for hip hop's commercial success. Being held in such high regard Sucker MC's has had its story told many times, but the first telling of how Sucker MCs came about are in the lyrics themselves

“Took a test to become an MC" - Run had been DJ for Kurtis Blow who was managed by his brother Russell Simmonds

"and Orange Krush became amazed at me" - Orange Krush was Kurtis Blow's backing band which included Larry Smith, Trevor Gale and Davy DMX

"So, Larry put me inside his Cadillac, the chauffeur drove off, and we never came back" At this point in the lyrics it's just Run, Russell Simmonds originally wished for his brother Run The MC to be a solo artist. Larry its Larry Smith of Orange Krush who, as well as working with Kurtis Blow and Run DMC, worked with Jimmy Spicer, "Love Bug" Starski, Dr Jeckyll And Mr Hyde, Starchild in those early years, and Whodini from 1984 - there's not enough said about Larry Smith

"Dave cut the record down to the bone, and now they got me rocking on the microphone” In 1982 Orange Krush released a disco track called Action. The beats for Sucker MC's is Trevor Gale's drum pattern from Action replayed on a Oberheim DMX drum machine. In the lyric this is Dave (Davey DMX) that cuts the record down to the bone. It's literally (Orange) Krush's groove

Run DMC are Joseph Simmons (Run), Darryl McDaniels(DMC), and Jason Mizell (Jam Master Jay)

Sucker MC's is said to take hip hop (meaning rap) back to its origin of 'rapping over a beat.' like you hear on Spoonie Gee's seminal track Love Rap from 1980. "Run-D.M.C's debut marked the start of a new era that saw a return to hip hop's roots in breakbeats, sampling and drum machines." What we have to take into consideration here is drum machines are still new and very expensive, the Oberheim DMX drum machine was released in 1980 and would have cost over $10,000 in todays money. I maybe wrong but I'm guessing when talking about going back to it's roots of 'rapping to a beat' that was more often than not that was a loop of a recorded live drum rather than a drum machine. The Oberheim DMX was released shortly after the Linn LM-1 in 1980, but the more popular LinnDrum didn't come out until 1982. The Roland TR-808 also came out in 1980 and was replaced by the TR-909 in 1983

"The mainstream was not quite prepared for the concept of breakbeats." - I'm getting these quotes from this awful article. In 1982 Malcolm McLaren releases Buffalo Gals, in 1982 in peaked at number 9 on the UK singles charts, and sold well around the world. Of course it's a bit of a novelty record but it also features an Oberheim DMX with a pretty sparse arrangement and was very influential

Run DMC's set up of emcee and a dj would become the new template of a rap group, although the dj would often get pushed out of the limelight. I don't agree with this statement "no major record label was willing to bet on a DJ over a live band." I've mentioned Buffalo Galls, that is The World's Famous Supreme Team djs scratching over the DMX drum beat and Trevor Horn el embellishing with a few samples from their new Fairlight CMI (is it the first hip hop record you use actual samples?), Grandmaster Flash had released the breakthrough dj record The Adventures Of Grandmaster Flash On The Wheels Of Steel in 1981, Grandmaster D.St is releasing records in 1982 and introduces mainstream US audiences to scratching in 1983 when he plays on Herbie Hancock's Rockit (most notably when he steals the show at the 1984 Grammy's). Then there is Planet Rock, Afrika Bambaataa and Arthur Baker are both dj's and recording in the dj come producer/remixer tradition of the disco era

I've seen Sucker MC's drum beat described as a sample and held up as introducing sampling to hip hop, "sampling was more stigmatised at the time." First of all it's not a sample is it, only if you want to call the sounds of the DMX samples, which would be technically right, but it's not sampling like you hear on Buffalo Gals. The reason sampling wasn't common in hip hop at the time is because samplers were rare and ridiculously expensive

Run DMC - Sucker MC's so good

The Beastie Boys performing Sucker MC's (5m18s) at the fist VH-1 Hip Hop Honours, which in my opinion was better than the Grammy's Hip Hop 50 celebration

[risingphoenixtv]

Both the devil may cry and Dead Rising games were on sale. Seeing that I never got to play this series years ago it's good I get to stream all these games and experience with everyone for the first time ever. For many years I was just stuck on skyrim so missed out on many classic games. I'm glad I finally get to play through them all #devilmaycry #dmc #deadrising #retro #classic #gaming #throwbacks #throwback #gamesofinstagram #instagram #xbox #playstation #nintendo #ig #american #usa #viral #gamerguy #twitchaffiliate #twitch #twitchstreamer #autism #autistic #autisticguy https://www.instagram.com/p/CmrmcK2P8pU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[beevean]

https://x.com/adishankarbrand/status/1844916313363448166

Friendly reminder that this guy has read Berserk and wants to animate it

Oh sure he says he's trolling in other tweets but after seeing his take on Dracula I ain't convinced

Yeah no this is 100% consistent with his take on Dracula that he released on interviews:

“The best villains, in general, are the heroes of their own story and the trick to making Castlevania resonate was this idea that Dracula isn’t a bad guy, he isn’t a villain, he’s just a person consumed with darkness," Shankar told us. "That first episode in Season 1 we start to see why he wants to eradicate humans. He’s not just this mustache-curling, one-dimensional villain. What Dracula is doing is not really a war against humanity. It’s more a suicide note.”

What about the whole concept of redemption arcs? That I’m totally on board with. Because let’s say, let’s say Dracula had been a cartoonish villain, then you wouldn’t have had in season one. You wouldn’t have had that entire backstory of trying to get in touch with this humanity and all that stuff and why all of a sudden his war against humans in the show is justified. So without that backstory, he becomes this like cartoony villain. I just I feel like, it’s important to kind of get across that the bad guys are really the heroes of their own narrative.

So when he insists on saying things like this?

You don't get to jump up and down yelling "I'm kidding! I'm just kidding! Haha I was just pretending and y'all fell for it, sike!" when we have proof, including a whole season of an acclaimed show (and I'm not talking about the whole show because I don't know how much input Shankar had on S4, I don't think much) of you exposing your views that a monstrous, genocidal villain who was willing to exterminate humankind and let vampirekind starve to death did actually nothing wrong and he's just a sad little bean.

Also, didn't he also call Sephiroth an anti-hero?

“It’s true,” he tells USA Today. “I’m drawn to anti-heroes with a strong point-of-view. Sephiroth is from an era where ‘bad guys’ felt one-dimensional across all media and in video games they felt especially mustache twirly. From a style perspective, I feel like the Final Fantasy series in its futurist dystopian entries had amazing fashion that I would – and do – replicate with my own spin.”

I think Shankar deadass thinks that anti-heroes are villains with a tragic backstory. He really would, unironically, propose that Griffith did nothing wrong because he was tortured.

I know why he's doing this: he thinks he's crafting some deep, morally nuanced narratives. But by insisting that destructive villains are just poow widdle meows meows and really Not So Bad After all, while relegating "villainy" to what he describes as "mustache-twirling" (basically the older stupid games), he's flattening the narrative. Evil can come from anyone, even from those who we find sympathetic. You can mean well and still do harm. You can have suffered more than you deserve and still not have the right to inflict that suffering back. His narrative in NFCV was heavy handed and forced me to sympathize with a lethargic monster who is in some verses even more callous than his game counterpart just because wife died, instead of simply allowing me to come up with my own conclusions.

I'm sorry, DMC fans. Good luck.

[vintagevoiture]

DMC12. Delorean. Source Wikipédia

[devilbrakers]

tag people you want to get to know better

was tagged by @aztarion <3333 ily

tagging: @numbaoneflaya @time-is-a-lake @vvanessaives @celticwoman @mrs-theirin @dmc4 @gothimp @pinkfey @lucien-lachance @pitchmoss and anyone else who'd like to join!

last song: blue light by mazzy star

currently watching: nothing atm, really. i'm slowly chipping away at my to watch list but as predicted, it's taking forever 😭 i finished yellowjackets a little while ago tho

three ships: i'm not rly into shipping outside of oc/canon tbh! i'm not fixated on anything in particular atm </3

favorite color: orange :) like a sunset orange specifically

currently consuming: strawberry banana smoothie..

first ship: you'll have to waterboard that out of me

place of birth: maine usa

current location: still here 🚶

relationship status: single. like it that way 😌

last movie: i watched warm bodies with my friends idk how long ago. i also started almost famous forever ago but keep forgetting abt it

currently working on: a couple edits, some writing. edits are for demetria and elorin. and the writing is for my dmc ocs, mainly gray atm since i'm working some things out with their story again and i'm doing a rly good job at overcomplicating it 😎

the beast i spend my time with

[polarisbibliotheque]

About the time a guy was being creepy to me on a professional setting and my gut feeling told me "GET OUT NOW"

Ok, so hi! This post has to do with a reblog recently here in my blog, on one of my fics regarding Dante and Vergil with an s/o suffering from being hit on without their consent. I write Devil May Cry fanfiction and that was my way of coping with a CREEP being, well, a creep.

Who would've known, fanfic is therapeutical

My answer got so big, I decided to make a separate post about it - and I'm talking like this because, if this gets out the DMC sphere and other people read it, they'll understand the fandom talk a little bit. This is not just for the fandom, but everyone out there.

Including men. All of us are prone to being targets of creeps - even if I'll be telling about my experience as a woman, take this advice to your heart NO MATTER your gender.

When this episode happened in my life, I was 27 y/o, I think...? I got pushed into such a stupid corner by this guy who kept messaging me with "work related" stuff... And my family wasn't validating my "this is weird" feeling.

So... What happened?

(TW: I mention the words "rape" and "sexual abuse" but none of that has happened. It was a red flag and I want to talk about avoiding it like the plague and how people might dismiss your gut feeling when something is wrong. I write with brutal honesty, curse words and don't censor anything, because I'm here to tell people how it is not curating content to go viral on clean ~family friendly~ social media. This is honest advice I'd give someone else, so it's just a heads up. I'm a little jaded with all the censoring of "forbidden words" when you have to discuss serious subjects like this nowadays hahahaha)

First context, I'm a Lawyer. Hi. I know it doesn't sound like it Second context, I'm from Latin America. Hi again!

Well, in my country, we have to vote every couple of years for the National Lawyer Association President and Vice-President (for my USA people, it's like the BAR association for Lawyers - meaning only lawyers who have passed the BAR and are, indeed, full-fledged to the association and with a lawyer permit can vote). I hate it, but it is what it is, I have to vote every time for one of those posh speaking clowns or else.

This much older guy stopped me at the entrance to the voting building to do some political propaganda of one of the candidates. Expected. They weren't the ones I was gonna vote 'cause their agenda didn't fit what I wanted for the Association - nevertheless, I smiled and was polite. Guy wouldn't shut up, but that's a lawyer thing. Kept being polite, dismissed him kindly and went inside to vote.

As I came back, guy is there and stops me. I had called my mom to give me a ride home - by that time, I had been broke and without a job for 2 years up until that point, trying to get back into the ~lawyer business~ and recover from a very bad burnout, so paying a ride back home was a big no. I had my phone on my hand and kept chatting because, you know, networking. You never know.

Now, mind you. I'm about to celebrate my 30th birthday this year, but people seriously think I'm underage wherever I go. I have to literally show them my credentials and ID so they can believe a single word I say. This guy, must've been around his 50s or something - and I look like a teen or, at best, 20 years old. I graduated when I was 22, so that's the most he could've imagined I was.

As we're talking, dude is flexing his career so hard I start to do the same. He says he has known the President and influential people in politics (back then, far-right government, so red flag already waving in the horizon), he has an office both here and in New York and Miami, he has worked with the FBI (we're in Latin America, the USA stuff is a flex for far-right people). I say I have worked as the Labor Lawyer in a huge worldwide known multinational company, coordinated with people in the USA and UK, had around 100 cases to manage monthly and keep the company in order when the directors were not around.

Guy is impressed and asks for my contact on LinkedIn. I'm down for it, I'm looking for a job and he could be one hell of a way to get back on business. Dude mentions he's in digital law and, heck, I wanted so bad to get into digital law! It was like he was put in my way by the angels to help me get back on my feet!

He asks for my resumé and my cellphone number, so he can have me in his office to have a cup of coffee. I am soaring by now. "That's it!!" I think "That's my ticket back to being a lawyer, to having my own money, to breaking the cycle of unemployment and having my career back!" - so I do it! I give him my number!

hello, workaholic aunt here speaking, my career was everything to me, I'd do everything for it

After I got back home, told my mom everything, and everyone was so happy. That's when he started sending me messages - asking for my address so he could send me some lawyer magazines and such... Even though he had asked when we were talking before and I changed the subject. I didn't give him of course, but instead sent him my resumé.

So, next day he asks me about that coffee and I said we can make it happen... Even if he got my name wrong. I have a pretty exotic name in whatever country I go, so it's a common mistake, known to happen, no one can pronounce my name right if I don't teach them how to, so yeah. I'm willing to gloss over that.

I'm assuming he read my resumé, saw how smart, capable and hardworking I am, and wants to talk business. Wants to offer me a job. I'm super ready. I'm taking my business clothes out of the closet, I'm cleaning my high heel black boots, I'm checking my references and vocabulary so I don't screw up. Guy sends a message saying he wants to take me out for lunch.

Red flag. My instincts flare up and I'm just staring at the screen. I start reviewing everything. I mean... Business lunches are ok, right? I had lunches with my manager and director plenty of times back in the day and it never got weird. So... Why was I feeling weird now...?

Guy says we can go out for lunch and then back at his office so he can show me around. I was like "hmmm... ok? shouldn't be weird. this is normal." but nevertheless I went to check with my mom and my sister.

Both said it was fine. I was feeling weird because it's a guy and me and I shouldn't be feeling uneasy - it's my social anxiety/workplace trauma talking. It's the opportunity of a lifetime. I shouldn't screw up.

I keep talking to him. I ask where we should meet up for this lunch and he tells me to give him my address, so he could pick me up and we can go to "a nice place to have lunch" (his words, not mine).

Red flags are dancing around my head. I keep thinking "have I lead him on something????" and going mad. What was I wearing? Only work clothes, that's all - suit pants, black high heel boots, dark silk shirt and only a nude lipstick so my lips wouldn't get chapped. My shirt didn't even show cleavage.

It's ridiculous how I feel this is a thing I should add 'cause heaven forbid the cleavage

What about what I've said? Did I accidentally flirt?? 'Cause that's been known to happen - I'm a clueless ace who can't for the life of me notice when people are flirting or not or notice when people think I'm flirting with them. And usually when they are not flirting or being attractive, that's when the magic happens for me! So... What gives?! Did I do something wrong, that sent the wrong message?

I mean, I was nice, yes. But you're supposed to be nice to people. I'm not gonna be rude just because most guys can't keep it in their pants.

I go over the messages. I didn't do anything strictly not business like. I'm very good at that. I have only worked responding to men as bosses in my life, had four male bosses before him, all different ages, marital status, star signs, backgrounds, lives. The best colleagues and co-workers I used to spend hours having coffee and laughing with were men. So I know how to keep professional and not mixing things up. It wasn't a slip up from my side.

Well, then there's always the chance I was going crazy and overreacting, soooo... I go over to my mom and sister. They think it's weird, yes, but they do think that's exactly what's going on: I'm overreacting and my social anxiety/workplace trauma is blocking me from pursuing this opportunity that can help my career - and make me have a salary again so I can help at home.

Ok. I though up and go back to talking to him. I tell him fine but I'll go to the place myself, so he can tell me where he's thinking about having lunch. Guy tells me nothing and keeps insisting I give him my address and he will give me a ride so we can "get to know each other better".

My GODS I've never felt so uncomfortable. Not even when I had to stay ONLY with my boss working until 1 am, only the two of us in the company building, every light out except the one in the room we were in, him being around 15 years older than me and very confident, with the two of us having one of the best work chemistry I had in my LIFE.

He could've done ANYTHING to me, but we only talked strictly work. We were tired, he waited for my mom to pick me up at 1 am outside so nothing bad would happen to me, both of us under an umbrella, he apologized to my mom for having me stay at work so late and then went back home to his wife and kid. I NEVER, at ANY moment felt unsafe around him. He was my mentor, he was my boss, he was a good colleague and even somewhat of a friend.

So why on EARTH was I feeling SO UNCOMFORTABLE with this guy I had only met ONCE face to face in my life?

I start to voice my concerns. My mom and my sister think I'm only saying that because I don't want to go back to work. That I want to throw my career away because I can't control my anxiety and my feelings. We fight a couple of times and a couple of days. My mom tells my aunt about it. My aunt goes full FBI and does a background check on this dude.

That's when she told my mom some things weren't adding up. His LinkedIn profile was a little too weird and he had no ties whatsoever with the elected President of the Lawyer Association - was he really someone in their team for propaganda? Nevertheless, he did have an office and did work with digital law, both here and in the USA. I shouldn't let this opportunity slip.

I got so mad. SO MAD. To the point my sister decided to ask her boyfriend for his opinion on all of it and he was like "hey... your sister is kinda right. guy wouldn't offer to take ME to a nice restaurant to have lunch and go to his office later for a coffee, would he...? I mean, this never happened to me" - and sis' boyfriend is on the business meetings and negotiations/selling part of the spectrum. He knows what he's talking about.

So now I finally have a man validating my concerns.

I take the decision to shut the whole thing down. I go "very well, I will NOT meet him, I will NOT maintain contact with him, he's treating me like a whore he picked up on the street". At this point, I am FUCKING FUMING. But still, my sister and mom gave him the benefit of the doubt and made me feel like I was doing something wrong.

So I decided to marinate him for a while.

I should note that all his messages were sent close or around midnight, not at working hours. And I only answered at working hours. Since I was taking a while to respond, my dude just goes like, and I kid you not, "ooooh she's not answering, she's ignoring me, I don't like that *sad emoji*" LIKE A FUCKING 13 YEAR OLD (no offense, 13 y/o peoples, but this dude is a FULL GROWN ASS MAN).

I am offended, I am flabbergasted and I wish I could suplex him to oblivion.

I show my mom the message. She just stares at me in awe. She FINALLY is like "yeah, ok, this isn't very professional". ALL THIS TIME, I never really told her what I was thinking and what was really worrying me. And then I break her the news that, what I'm really afraid of, is that this guy is going to rape me in his car. Or he's going to drive me somewhere I can't fight or scream and then he'll rape me. Whatever the scenario, it ended up with me being raped and I was scared. SO. FUCKING. SCARED.

My mom goes into Sphinx mode - that's when she doesn't answer and doesn't even look at me and just ~thinks~. It's a brutal reality she doesn't like and I don't like it either, I mean, it's my safety we're talking about here.

I shut down the guy completely. I tell him there's a family emergency and I couldn't continue to give him any attention nor I could go out for that lunch and I couldn't talk anymore. He SUDDENLY goes cold and "I am sorry if any of my messages seemed inconvenient. Do answer when you have the time so we can make an appointment." And that's it. No more messages. He's done in my book.

My mom tells my aunt. Aunt goes Sherlock Holmes mode this time and, lo and behold, they find an website of this guy's office. My mom is shocked at how 90's internet it looks for a guy who works with digital law. She then recognizes the address of the office but the doesn't remember of any office building in that street - so she Googles it.

His "office" is actually a residential building - meaning, it was his home address. She shows it to me and I want to cry - out of rage, shame, fear, sadness. I go like "yeah, this is the place he wanted me to go, to his home. What was he going to do to me there, huh?" - and I think the answer is pretty obvious.

Later, speaking to my sister, she's like "I dunno why you're so mad" and I'm like "WELL MISS I just got PICKED UP LIKE A WHORE outside of an OFFICIAL EVENT for the NATIONAL LAWYER ASSOCIATION while I was DRESSED UP PROFESSIONALLY and looking for PROFESSIONAL opportunities and I COULD HAVE BEEN RAPED. I think I have all the right in the FUCKING WORLD to be FUMING."

That's when we diverged some more. She just said like "hey that's how the world works: women are treated like whores - you weren't the first one to have this happen to you and you won't be the last. What are you gonna do about it? Get over it."

Oh. Boy. I looked at my sister's eyes. I saw her just staring at me weirdly. A storm was approaching. The skies darkened. Bury the Light started playing in the background. Vergil's doppelgänger was standing behind me like an angel of death. (All DMC references for my non-DMC peoples)

"Well. I wanna have power. So much fucking power in this world that no one ever even thinks about treating me like that again. So much power they will fear standing in front of me and saying those words - they will look into my eyes and shut up. So much power I will never be afraid to walk on my own again and I will never have to doubt my feelings when I'm feeling unsafe because some lowlife pitiful little shit decided I should be a whore to satisfy him. I want to have power so I will never be this helpless again."

Cue in my sister just sitting there with butter in the slice of bread in her hand, staring at me like "wtf man... do you need a hug...?" and me doing a dramatic exit back to my room to, well... Write the fanfic in question.

(For my DMC creatures: I never even thought of Vergil when I said all of this, I just noted that thought later in my diary and reading it a couple of days later I was like "omg I have become my worst enemy, fuck you Verge" because I kid you not, I used to hate this man with all the fibers of my being - hence where my longfic Nemesis came from. I realized I lived long enough to become my worst enemy - and maybe I hated him because Vergil made me look at the part of myself I didn't like and didn't want to admit existed *I'm laughing while writing this, I do find it weirdly amusing*)

DMC things aside, this WHOLE episode made me feel so frustrated. I never had anyone to validate me, only people doubting me or asking me if I lead him on, or what was I wearing, or if I smiled too much, if I was being too nice, if I said something inappropriate, and so on. I had to get it all off my chest and I thought maybe, juuuust maybe, Dante and Vergil would've been more supportive regarding that.

Because, you know, they know trauma and they are protective as fuck. They can have all the red flags and mental issues in this world, but I don't think they would EVER dismiss their partner - especially a woman - feeling unsafe and fearing being abused or raped. In order to trust, you have to give the person and opportunity and room to open up to you without judgements - and I do think they aren't very judgy people.

I mean, they are demons, for fuck's sake. They can't judge anything especially Vergil

Also, I don't blame my mom nor my sister (even if I got really mad at her). In the end, both of them wanted what was best for me, they thought it was an opportunity and wanted me to get my career back. Truth is, no woman knows how to act when this happens. And they didn't know how to act as well. They didn't want to think of the worst: just like I was doubting myself and my own feelings, they were doubting theirs as well. We ALL had to be validated by a man to admit something was wrong and we weren't hysterical.

Ok, ok, storytime over. But I felt like sharing this because people, you are ALWAYS valid in your concerns - and there's no clothing, no smile, no attitude, no NOTHING that JUSTIFIES abuse. If you're abused or feeling like someone wants to take advantage of you, especially sexually, YOUR FEELINGS AND FEARS ARE VALID. Don't shrug it off or water it down just because people are saying you're overreacting - if I had listened to everyone around me instead of my gut feeling that something was REALLY wrong, only the gods know what would've happened. But I'll tell ya, it probably wouldn't have been good for me.

At best, I'd be mad this guy would want to pick me up like a whore and I'd have to turn him down and take a ride home. At worst, he would've raped me - in his car, at the "restaurant", at his "office". We don't know, but I didn't want to "give luck to bad luck" as we say where I live.

I didn't have support, so I wrote a story to feel supported by the fictional characters I look up to - I wished SO bad I was dating someone, especially a man, who'd tell me he'd go through hell and back to keep me safe and wouldn't allow anyone to hurt me and validate my feelings. Someone who would make me feel safe and I wouldn't have to only rely on myself.

cue in V saying he too wanted to be loved and protected, I tell you, all this time I thought I hated Vergil when I had only found my nemesis in a mirror

So, don't ever doubt yourselves. Don't ever doubt your gut feelings. We might want validation and someone to keep us safe, but sometimes we don't have that and have to rely on our survival mode. It sucks, but there's a reason why that thing is called "survival": it keeps you alive. It keeps you going.

And no one, NO ONE has the right to say you're overreacting, you're being hysterical, you're reading too much into it, you're just trying to find the easy way out, you just don't want an opportunity because you're lazy, you're crazy and deranged, etc, etc.

If your gut is flapping red flags all around, then overreact. Be hysterical. Read too much into it, find the easy way out, be lazy, be crazy and deranged. Be the villain. Be the bad person. You're not perfect. You're not a princess. Be comfortable with people telling you you're bad - but never NEVER let go of your gut feeling when your safety is on the line.

That fucking thing WILL save your life. Being too nice, though, might not. Listen to yourself, be TRUE to yourself, and, again, don't be afraid to be bad.

Someday you might just find your half-demon man who will support you, protect you and treat you as an equal powerhouse, but until that day, keep on conquering your self-esteem and unwavering will.

I'm just saying all of this now because:

1 - I was too scared to talk about this for a looong time afraid the guy in question would find this, know it's me and my safety would be on the line again

2 - Just now I'm getting comfortable with the concept of being "seen as the villain" and being "seen as bad". My whole life I have been dancing around this because people always said I had a "difficult" personality. I watched Cruella recently and it hit home so hard. We do have things to learn from villainous characters and maybe this is just who I am. People are going to see me as bad so, who cares. Even if I'm not, it would do me good getting used to that idea - I can be more assertive to my boundaries and not allow any of this to happen again. So, there you go. It's an exercise everyone should do. Are you comfortable defending your ideas, your boundaries and your integrity even if people are mad you're not being a pushover/perfectly polite?

It's something I think all of us should think about ;)

Also

thanks for coming to my TED Talk :')