#a physical outlet is great and also necessary from time to time | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

sjsmith56 · 9 months ago

Text

Epilogue - Chapter 43, Lord Buchanan

Summary: It's going to become quite evident that this isn't exactly an epilogue. The previous 42 chapters kind of started in the middle of something bigger while focusing mainly on the story of the main female character, Ileana. So, just to wrap things up I decided to give a "brief" history of the world she found herself in, a world that was confusing in how it seemed to be a meld of various different eras in her own planet's history. There will still be an update of sorts of the main characters, but the majority will be a description of how they all got to that point.

Length: 7.8 K

Warnings: some curse words

Author notes: The images in the mood board were created by myself using the Microsoft app Copilot, using the Designer mode. Sometimes the results are a bit hit and miss but these ones seemed to convey the passage of time in the character of Lord Buchanan, James Buchanan Barnes. I know this fantasy story isn’t for everyone but it was a lot of fun to write and the last six chapters (not including the Epilogue) were written when I was dealing with a sudden serious cancer diagnosis. It allowed me an outlet for the darkness that threatened me, physically and emotionally. If you’re one of the few who has read it in its entirety (you know who you are 😘), thank you for your support of this cult classic.

<<Chapter 42

🌅 🌕

As any sorcerer can tell the lay person, dealing with multiple universes can be tricky. For a certain witch who was known as the Scarlet Sorceress in her old world, but as Dr. Wanda Maximoff in her current one, the stakes were high when she put a plan into motion to save her previous world from a natural disaster that had almost destroyed it centuries before. She was a young woman the first time an asteroid hit the atmosphere of her world, landing in the mid-Atlantic Ocean and sending tsunamis across that vast water that devastated the coastlines of the countries bordering it. Those tsunamis travelled around the world affecting all countries, sending them into a decline that caused chaos and despair, as crops were affected, communications destroyed, technology wiped out and governments toppled. What rose from the remains of the countries regressed to a form of medieval kingdoms, as strong individuals took power, then offered their protection to the population in return for their loyalty and their labour. The churches also prospered, heralding the event as just retribution for turning away from faith. But something else arose from those dark times, as certain people developed the abilities to manipulate aspects of life, including time, health, and the ability to travel between the multiple universes. The magic that the calamity released from eons of repression filled those sensitive individuals and imbued them with powers that could be used for enlightenment or to keep people enslaved.

The Sorceress was one of those individuals who sought enlightenment, and in concert with the others like herself worked hard to prevent the asteroids from impacting their world again. Over the centuries it came at a cost, as their powers became depleted by all that it took to keep the asteroids still orbiting the sun from their destructive paths. One by one, in order to keep from dying themselves, the purveyors of magic found it necessary to leave their world, to begin a life elsewhere in one of the multiple universes that abounded. On the original world, the threat of the asteroids became great again and the Sorceress, one of the few with powers still remaining there, sought to change the fate of her world by drawing in people from the other modern universes, people with knowledge that could benefit and bring about change.

As wars for control of scarce resources raged around her, the Sorceress sought a place where a plan could be set into motion to restore the lost knowledge of the society she was born into. Others of her kind did the same in their lands, but it took a long time for her to find a suitable place, in the Kingdom of the Broken Lands. Originally known as Brooklyn, once a borough of a larger metropolitan area called New York, the name itself meant "broken land," as its original colonizers noticed the large number of streams that cut through it.

When the Sorceress first presented herself to the court of King Joseph, he was old and sick; his only son, Steven, was just a child, and she knew from her own visions that a tyrant was coming to take control. In those same visions, she had seen the young son growing into a just and strong man, who with the help of loyal subjects from all walks of life, would eventually take his kingdom back. It was that kingdom that would be the site of her attempts at the plan that other sorcerers and sorceresses had implemented elsewhere. All they needed was for the young king to be kept safe from harm, and to be raised in secret with a certain farmer, his wife, and their son.

When the Titan despot, known as Thanos, arrived on their shores with his massive army, she convinced the king to let her smuggle his son, then just a small, sickly boy, to a place of safety. He agreed and she disguised herself as a nursemaid, using her magic to slip past the Titan's forces and into the countryside where a farmer and his wife struggled to make ends meet as they eked out a living on their small farm, granted to him after his own service with the king came to an end. His son, James Buchanan Barnes, was only a year older than the young prince, but found a kindred spirit in the sickly, but prankish nature of the boy. With the help of some of her own family line who had the gift of knowledge, the prince was educated, along with the Barnes boy, and both grew up believing their destiny was to restore the kingdom to its rightful heir, Prince Steven Grant Rogers, son of King Joseph Rogers, who had since perished as a prisoner of Thanos.

The years spent in hiding were hard on everyone as Thanos was a cruel master. Under his rule, people were little more than slaves, except for those noblemen who pledged their allegiance to him. Life was hard, people were hungry all the time, and illness claimed many, including the wife of the farmer Barnes, his beloved Winter. Even the young prince wept at her death, for she had been the only mother he ever knew, his own having died giving birth to him. But it steeled something in him, turned his prankish nature into one more determined into taking back what was his. To most of the outside world, Steven and young Bucky, the farmer's son, were little more than serfs, planting the crops that the farmer Barnes grew and harvested, then travelled with him to sell. It was a hard life, but in their travels, they made contact with others who also longed to fight against the Titan. Gradually, the two young men, brothers really, picked up the skills of warriors, learning sword play, becoming proficient in the use of a staff and a pike, and learning to ride a horse with the slightest touch of their knee, or a whispered command. The word went out in secret that the young prince lived and was amassing an army.

By this time there were noblemen who felt the yoke of servitude as too great a price to pay for their allegiance, and several of them, most notably Lord Howard Stark, became involved in supporting the secret army. The neighbouring Kingdom of the Green Lands, who had used magic to present themselves as not worthy of conquest also provided support, as the two young princes of the ruler King Odin, convinced their father the time was right to rise as one against the Titan.

The Sorceress, who had yet to draw any modern people over from the other universes, made her first attempt, bringing a man with knowledge and the ability to fight into her world, making a copy of him when he went through a wormhole in his own universe. What she didn't count on was that he himself had a duality; sometimes he was a reasonable man of science, but other times he was a raging green beast of a monster, uncontrollable in almost every way. The man who arrived in her world was both, but he was definitely not in a mood to cooperate. In desperation, she charged the farmer Barnes to approach him, with the promise of leading the giant, named Bruce, to a remote place where he could live unhindered. Filling the older Barnes with a sense of calmness she sent him to the giant, successfully calming him and ensuring that he would live relatively quietly as a hermit, until he was needed. The farmer continued the tenuous friendship with the giant, and even brought his son, James, with him on occasion, a move that worked out very well, as the giant accepted the young man's presence.

It was at that point, that the Sorceress rethought the plan of bringing in people from modern worlds, realizing that some people were less adaptable than others. As she watched and observed the young king and his foster brother become older, and stronger men, in both look and temperament she presented herself to him, promising to use her magic to assist him. By the time he was the age of 18, he had a formidable army, and the battles began. First, were sorties against the places where the Titan was spread thin, or his army had grown fat and complacent. In a space of three years the young king helped restore other kingdoms to their rightful rulers, never once keeping the land that he freed for himself. All he asked was their help to go against the Titan and free others under his control.

There had been a grievous blow struck against the king when his foster brother, and closest friend, James Buchanan Barnes, Buck to his friends, was captured and thought to be dead. It had been just after the third year of the start of the many battles they fought together. Fearing the growing power that Steven had accumulated, Thanos employed the help of a dark sorcerer, one who lusted for power, into placing a curse on Buck. The curse, where he would be transformed into a wolf who would attack the king on the words, "Buck, my brother," took months to impose on the young warrior, who fought against its implementation. Then they let him escape, knowing he would return to his foster brother's side. As he stumbled into the encampment, almost unrecognizable, there were those who told the king of Buck's return. Rushing out to an open area between the tents he reacted with joy at the sight of the man he had grown up with. Bringing him into his tent, the orders were given to tend to Buck's wounds, to bathe, and clothe him so that he would begin to feel normal again. Unable to tell the king what had been done to him, the younger Barnes could only weep when his king greeted him again with the triggering words and he transformed into a white wolf intent on tearing the young king apart. Backing him into a corner he was prepared to leap for the throat of his king, when Steven did a most extraordinary thing.

"I will not fight you, Buck," he said, calmly. "You have been my brother since I was a sickly boy. Together, we planted the fields with vegetables, and I learned the value of even the lowliest farm worker by working at your side. I saw you picking the lock on the slave boy's cage, then giving him the food that kept him alive as he escaped from a life of misery. I laughed as I watched you struggled to open a container of flour, almost rolling in glee as it covered your face in its white powder. I cried with you when your mother breathed her last. If I am to die by your hand, then I embrace it for we have been together in life, and it is right that we should be together in death."

He dropped his sword, then approached the wolf, reaching out with his hands, grasping the thick fur of its neck, then burying his face into it. The wolf, which had initially growled its threats at him, began to whimper and the small circle of men present in the tent watched in amazement as the enchantment ended and an unclothed Buck was revealed in the clutch of his foster brother's arms. All were sworn to secrecy that day, so that the wolf could not be controlled by any other.

The Sorceress thought long and hard over how the young king had been able to counter the enchantment. Her only answer was love; in this case the love between the two men as brothers, trusting each other completely. It was then she realized that the modern people she had to bring into this world needed the capacity to love and be loved, as well as the knowledge of science and engineering needed to transform her world. Looking around the young king's council, she saw men with potential that could be increased if the right catalyst could encourage those aptitudes. The rest of the modern people brought to this world would be women. It made sense to her, even in this land where women were still seen as belonging to their husband's and fathers. If she chose well the women who came in would prove their worth with their knowledge. If they were not up to the task, then she could return them, disguising their stay as a dream. It would mean she would have to split herself between many universes, but it was also possible to find other sorcerers in those other worlds who would send her the right people.

Her plan was put into motion and over the years the modern women were brought in, as the uncrowned king continued his war against the Mad Titan. After almost ten years of fighting the Titan made one last grasp for victory when he captured a large contingent of Steven's men. Imprisoned in a castle deep in his territory he hoped to draw in the young king, encircle him and kill him outright to secure his hold permanently. Instead, Buck came up with a plan to use the White Wolf against Thanos, slipping past his defences and freeing the men in question. In the process, he would learn the weaknesses of their enemy, returning back to be transformed into himself again. It was risky but it worked, and the men escaped, returning to the king's forces. Buck was not with them, having listened to the call of his wolf brethren and joining them in the forest. Anxious to restore his friend to his human form Steven had traps placed everywhere, finally enticing the ghostly White Wolf into one. As before, he approached him and convinced the wolf to allow the man to appear. Just as Buck appeared, the Titan attacked, taking advantage of his vulnerability. Even without clothes or weapons the younger Barnes fought alongside his brother, receiving a terrible wound to his left arm in the process. Determined to protect his friend to the end, Steven stood over his wounded brother and fought the Titan to the point of almost being defeated himself. The arrival of Prince Thorn, and the new Lord Stark, Anthony, whose father had died in battle the week before, distracted the Titan and together the three fought him, until King Steven picked up Thorn's hammer from where it had fallen and took the tyrant's head off in one fell swoop, ending ten years of war, and many more years of cruelty. The dark sorcerer disappeared, Thanos' remaining army dispersed like dried leaves in the wind, and peace was finally on the land.

Buck, still grievously hurt, prepared to receive the last rites as the priest appeared with the Sorceress. She declared that she could heal his wounds, although the scars would be a testament to his close demise, forever. With the king's insistence, she healed Buck, although it was two more days before he woke up, under the white sheets of a bed in the palace that the young king had called home as a little boy. An offer was made to him to stay as the Knight Commander of the King's Guard, but he declined, wanting to go home and finally marry his love, Hannah. He suggested the Falconer, Sam Wilson, would be a more suitable Knight Commander in the restored kingdom.

After several more days recovery he set out for his homelands, Eden Vale, where his father farmed a large plot under fealty to the Baron, a kind man who would have been part of the contingent helping the young king, except for his infirmity. His son, Helmut Zemo, had been part of the force against Thanos, although he had returned immediately after the death of the tyrant. By the time Buck returned to the land of Eden Vale, after King Steven's coronation, he learned that the younger Zemo had convinced Hannah's father to marry her to him, giving him a large dowry and a large plot of land as a reward. In desperation, Buck offered him everything he owned to divorce her, freeing her from the marriage. But Zemo, always jealous of the bond between king and farmer, declined, citing his right as heir to the elder Baron to choose any woman in his lands as his bride. For a year, he showed off his wife as much as possible, as well as his two mistresses, often when the three women were in the same room. It was humiliating for the young wife, and she took her own life in despair. Buck almost killed the heir to Eden Vale then, but his father convinced him to undergo training for the monastery and the younger Barnes, not yet fully a priest, opted to go to the Holy Lands on a journey across the ocean, trying to wrest control of those lands from those the church called heretics.

It was in those hot, arid lands where Buck, injured and left for dead after a battle was approached by a young, wild black stallion. The horse, whose glossy black coat and long mane marked him as being part of a bloodline long thought lost in the calamity, stood over the fallen soldier, seemingly intrigued by the man. Nudging him several times, he stayed with him until the man aroused once the sun was down. Nickering softly to him in the darkness the great horse watched as the man raised himself in the sands, looking around then spying him.

"Great horse," whispered Buck. "Are you real or are you my steed for the after life?"

Slowly approaching him, the horse lowered its head, nudging the wounded soldier. He inhaled the scent of the man, finding it pleasant and blew his own breath out through his nose. Then he kneeled down on one foreleg, low enough for the injured man to clamber onto his back. Wrapping his hands in the part of the mane closest to him, Buck leaned forward, then whispered in the Latin he had learned as part of his studies to join the priesthood.

"Magnus equus me domum." [Great horse, take me home.]

The horse reared up, as if in joy at finding the one who would ride him, then began to run through the sands. Always steady and sure footed, he brought the man to an oasis, where they both drank their fill from the well. Several date palms were convinced to drop their fruit to replenish his energy, and Buck began to believe that he and the horse were destined to be together. It was reinforced at their arrival at the garrison of his order, when the bishop saw the horse, and in his pride, commanded the young man to relinquish his ownership of it; since he was almost a priest, he should renounce all worldly possessions. When the bishop's stable hands attempted to put a bridle on the magnificent horse and lead him away, he lashed out, almost injuring one of them. Only Buck could calm him, and the bishop reluctantly admitted that God had seen fit to reward the man for his piety. Then he sent them both on a mission, to physically take a message to the bishop of another garrison, one located on the coast. Unknown to Buck, the message informed that bishop that the bearer was a heretic, the horse was his familiar, and both should be killed as enemies of the church. It was fortunate that the bishop at the other garrison was also a sorcerer, who had been part of the same vision that the Sorceress had seen about the younger Barnes' future. Instead of killing him, he told him the king had sent for him. He and the great horse should return back to the Broken Lands as soon as possible. When Buck protested the sorcerer reassured him.

"You and Magnus are needed there," he said, noticing the man's surprise at the name given the stallion. "He chose you because you knew his name already. He envisioned a life with you, one in the green lands of your home. This battle that we fight in this living hell on earth, will never be won, not in our lifetimes. Other battles await you, more important ones. Go, James Barnes, fulfill the destiny that awaits you. You are released from holy orders."

With papers proving his release, Buck and Magnus boarded a sailing ship that took them through the Mediterranean, stopping in what was once Spain. Several breeders of horses attempted to buy Magnus, one even attempted to steal him, but he protected the horse as his most precious possession. By the time they arrived at the port in the Broken Lands, a month had passed, and the two were as close as any human brothers could ever be. His arrival coincided with the news that the young Zemo had become Baron, after the death of his father, and that he had accused the elder Barnes of failure to pay his due for the years of his service to the estate.

"The Baron of the Rocky Woodlands passed away in your absence," said King Steven. "He left no heirs, as they perished during our battles against the Titan. I wish to offer the estate to you, to elevate you formally into a nobleman, as befits your own nature. As Zemo's equal, he cannot deny your request to pay your father's so-called debt, which I have ruled is 20 gold pieces. Take your father home, Buck. Be my Right Hand, by law as you have always been by brotherhood."

"Only if I take the title of Lord, instead. Lord Buchanan, so that my mother's family name still lives on."

He looked steadily at his foster brother who agreed, and the investiture was performed, although there were some, like Lord Dreykov and Lord Pierce, who were not happy at the elevation of a farmer into the nobility. After making their opposition known, they abided by the King's decision and when Lord Buchanan rode the magnificent black stallion, Magnus, onto Zemo's estate to collect his father, he did it with several men from his own garrison. Some of them, like Rhodes, his new garrison commander, were men he had served with during the long war with Thanos.

"Baron Zemo!" he announced from the courtyard, so that all present could hear him. "By order of the king I offer you the settlement of 20 gold pieces to pay any debt that you feel is owed to you by my father. I await my father's presence as required by the law of the Kingdom of the Broken Lands."

He had been coached on what to say by Jarvis, the king's historian, whose knowledge of the laws of the land was unparalleled. It was several minutes before Zemo appeared, standing on a balcony in his sleeping clothes with two women draped over him, both of them scandalously unclothed.

"His debt is much greater," said Zemo, sullenly.

"Not according to your king," stated Buchanan. "With witnesses present I have been authorized to inform you that if you do not accept the king's judgement in this that you will be considered to be in breach of your vow of fealty to him, made in the presence of God, and in the presence of your peers. You will start a civil war which you have no chance of winning. The choice is yours, Zemo."

"You must be enjoying this," said the haughty baron. "All the money I laid out for Hannah's dowry, which she cheated me out of by killing herself just a day after I would be unable to claim it back. Your own father's debt of hundreds of gold coins reduced to just 20."

Buchanan's hand settled on the hilt of his sword. "You do not have the right to talk ill of the dead," he replied, with glowering eyes. "This is my last request for my father. How do you answer?"

The baron looked behind him, nodding at another person. Then he faced Buchanan.

"I accept the king's wisdom," he said. "Your father is being brought up at this moment. Please hand the 20 gold pieces to my steward."

"When I see my father I will give it to you," answered Buchanan, his hand still on his weapon.

Moments later two guards dragged his father out in a sorry state and for a moment Lord Buchanan contemplated taking his own revenge on the arrogance of the baron. His father was filthy, his clothes covered in the excrement of himself and other animals. Rhodes glanced at his lord, then dismounted with another man, and searched the face of the old man who was before him. After several questions, he was convinced it was the elder Buchanan and nodded to the newly invested lord. He gestured to another soldier who left, returning with a small cart, fitted out with a soft bed. Together they helped the old man onto the cart.

Buchanan hefted the pouch with the gold coins in it for a long moment, considering whether to empty it into the horse shit-filled courtyard, but instead he handed it to the steward and turned Magnus around.

"See you at the palace sometime," said Zemo, as a farewell but Buchanan did not respond, wanting only to return with his father to their new home.

As soon as they were past the border of Eden Vale, they stopped at an inn, where more of his garrison waited, along with Mary, the housekeeper of the former lord. She knew both the elder Barnes and the younger man well, having become friends with them as they sold their vegetables. When she saw the condition of the older man she burst into tears.

"It's not right, M'Lord, that the Baron can get away with this," she said. "Why is he so cruel, when his father was a kind and just man?"

"There is darkness in all men, Mary," replied the young lord, as he picked his father up in his arms, and took him inside the inn, where she had already drawn a bath for the man. "Come, let's get him cleaned up." He looked at Rhodes. "See to your men, make sure they have food, drink and a place to sleep for the night. I have rented all the rooms so some may have to double up, but we won't leave until my father is well enough to travel. The Sorceress is on her way?"

"Aye, she is, sir," said Mary. "The falconer said she should be here before the dawn. Six of the King's Guard accompany her, including the Knight Commander."

"Good, they will also make sure that Baron Zemo makes no attempt at retribution against me."

Together they undressed the old man and Buchanan laid him in the metal tub of warm water. While Mary washed his hair, Buchanan washed his father's body, alarmed at the bruises and cuts he had received while in Zemo's dungeons. It stoked his anger and several times he wanted only to mount Magnus and ride back to that castle to challenge the Baron to a duel for his mistreatment of a man the old Baron considered a friend. However, a voice, perhaps of the Sorceress herself, whispered that someday he would have his moment to dispatch the Baron.

Before dawn, as promised, the Sorceress arrived and was ushered into Buchanan's room, where he rested on a mat on the floor next to his father's bed. As he anxiously watched while she placed her cool hands on the old man's face, murmuring incantations, he saw his father's tortured look finally relax. When the Sorceress pulled her hands away, she patted his father on the chest then bid Buchanan to join her outside the room.

"Your father has suffered a damaging injury to his mind," she said. "I have done what I could, but it is permanent, made worse by the treatment he suffered in Zemo's dungeons." Immediately, Buchanan sought his sword, but she stayed his hand. "If you seek revenge now, you will lose to him. You will be killed and all that is planned for you will be for nought."

"Planned for me? What is planned for me?"

"I cannot enlighten you to that," she answered calmly. "Just believe that you are destined for something good and great, that will serve your king and the people not only of this kingdom but all who still live on this planet. That's not to say that there won't be heartbreak along the way because there will be. My Lord Buchanan, you are one of the best men in this kingdom; the king being another. Other men take inspiration from you and will for many years. But, if you give in to your need for immediate revenge now, or in the future, it will rebound back on you tenfold and undo everything good you have accomplished. Please, heed my counsel. Other battles await you, more important ones. Your time to avenge the evil done by Baron Zemo will come and when it does, I will not block your path."

He breathed heavily for several long minutes, considering her words. Other battles await you, more important ones. Those were the exact same words spoken by the bishop in the coastal garrison of the holy lands, words spoken by a man of God, then repeated just now by a holder of the deeper magic. He removed his hand from his sword.

"Very well," he replied. "I will not take my revenge on Baron Zemo until the time is right, until the day when you do not stop me from my path."

"Thank you," she answered, placing her cool hands on his much larger and more calloused ones. "Allow your father to rest until midday, then return to your estate. Give him a garden to plant and tend. It will keep his mind occupied and make him happy. There will be days he knows you but there will be days he doesn't. Be kind, love him, he was and is a good father to you and the king."

"What of you?" he asked. "Will you rest?"

She smiled. "When I have accomplished all that is before me, I will rest. I promise."

Over the next few years, there was peace in the kingdoms, as the various kings and their noblemen set about to restore prosperity to the lands ravaged by Thanos reign and the long war. More modern people arrived, women with knowledge of science, technology, medicine, and engineering. The Sorceress began sharing "visions" of what the women had left behind in their universes and although the inhabitants of this world didn't really understand they saw the visions of great cities of glass and steel, factories that churned out whatever was needed in those worlds, marketplaces filled with all sorts of food. Even television and movies were explained, although not fully understood. The more enlightened lords, like Stark and Buchanan, saw some good in the visions they were given. Stark sought to understand how those great machines could work and when he found the modern woman who would become his wife in his stable, agreed to keep her presence a secret for in her world, there was a history of women with her knowledge being treated as dangerous. Buchanan fell in love with a modern woman, Elena, but he was a possessive husband, and she felt stifled, never happy with her life on the estate. When she expressed a desire to return home or die trying, the Sorceress sent her back, removing the memory of her life in their world. Buchanan, who had awoken alone, was harder to treat, as his love was deep and the only reason he could accept for her leaving was her death, so the Sorceress put that into his mind. She felt terrible for the manipulation and even worse when Baron Zemo overheard her confide that to King Steven's wife, formally Queen Margaret, or Peg as she was commonly called. He used that knowledge to his advantage, keeping both women wondering when he would reveal their shared secret.

Peggy Carter, a British captain in the army, was no fool. A former spy, she was pulled out of her world just before her counterpart died in a suicide bombing in London. Landing in the forest, directly in front of King Steven as he rode to get away from the pressures of ruling, she was recognized as military by him, just by her uniform. Introducing himself, he offered to help her up behind him on his horse, impressed at how she used her own strength as well as his to climb up. Surprised that he didn't seem afraid of her, he told her how there were many modern women appearing in the land, all of them accomplished.

"By your garb, I take it you were a soldier," he said. "You wear cloth breeches and have regalia on your collar and sleeves that mark you as having a commission."

"I am a Captain," she replied. "I saw several tours of combat and can fight against most men, holding my own against them. Do you not have women in your military here?"

"No, although it is an idea I have contemplated," he said. "Certainly, there have been some who managed to live just fine without a husband or male relative to provide for them. They seem to chop wood, hunt, and fish on their own with few difficulties. It stands to reason they could probably fight if they had to. However, there are many more men who still think women should stay at home and take care of their children. Not all women are meant for that however."

"We have a saying in my world for men like that," she ventured. "Fuck the patriarchy."

At first, he was shocked to hear those words come from her lips, then he laughed and looked back at her.

"What would you replace it with?"

"Equality for all sexes," she replied. "You must have men who prefer men, women who prefer women, some that prefer both or several at the same time. Replace the patriarchy with respect for everyone and let them live their lives. As long as no one is hurt, what does it matter?"

"Indeed, what does it matter?"

Over the next few weeks, he found Peg, as she preferred to be called, was more than capable of holding her own against most men, although she didn't know sword play, her staff skills were basic, as were her archery skills. But in hand-to-hand combat, few men could best her. When she saw a carbine, that a pedlar from one of the far-off lands had brought in as personal protection she talked the man into letting her fire several rounds at a target, convincing the king to pay him a gold piece for the opportunity. She hit the target dead centre each time.

"Where did this come from?" she asked. "It has US Army markings on it."

"It is ancient," he said. "I traded for it in the Oklahoma wilderness where the first peoples who were there from the beginning still live. I had some copper wire that I salvaged from another place. They saw it, offered me the carbine, plus a horse. It was a good trade, but I will need more rounds of ammunition for it. I just hope that what I have lasts until I get back there with something else to trade."

She looked at the king. "You have the makings of gunpowder, don't you?" He nodded. "Do you have any blacksmiths or farriers with modern knowledge?" He nodded again. She looked at the pedlar. "I will see if I can duplicate your ammunition. I'll need a single round to measure and weigh the components."

"Another gold piece," he offered.

She looked back at Steven, who nodded, producing a gold piece from a leather pouch. They didn't see each other for two weeks as she worked almost exclusively with the farrier. During that time, she figured out very quickly that the Sorceress had a plan, seeing how she nudged attitudes and decisions towards things that would make life better. The Sorceress also didn't seem surprised with what Peg was doing. When the pedlar stopped at the palace before returning to their land, she presented him with a case of 24 rounds of ammunition.

"That is a gift," she said. "As long as you don't tell anyone where you got them from. It will be our secret. Do you agree?"

"If you know how to make more rounds you should be trading them," he said. "I know many pedlars with carbines that are useless because they ran out of ammunition and haven't found anything the Oklahomans want in trade."

She shrugged. "Let's just say I'm working on something a little easier to carry but it would be better if no one knew about it just yet. When we are ready, we can talk."

The little something she referred to was a hand pistol, easily reloaded, and able to be carried on a holster that fit around the waist. Wanting to demonstrate to the king how effective it could be as an additional weapon she agreed to demonstrate it in the woods, accompanied only by the King and Lord Buchanan, his Right Hand and foster brother. As expected, like other men of their world, they were both of the opinion that her demonstration would not change their minds on the pistol's benefits. When she hit the six-inch diameter target from over a hundred yards away both men very quickly changed their opinion. Giving them both the opportunity to try it for themselves she was gratified when they both agreed it would be a superior weapon to add to their arsenal and plans were made to begin manufacturing them. After Buchanan retired for the night, the King realized that Peg was a woman of exceptional capability, whose mere presence set his heart racing. Impulsively, he asked for her hand in marriage. Just as impulsively, she accepted.

This was the state of the kingdom when it seemed that the influx of modern women suddenly slowed, affecting the rate of change in the home world of the Sorceress. Although she was in communication with her future version, Wanda Maximoff, the Sorceress was worried that just as they were on the brink of a major breakthrough that could save her world, the last few women that were needed to help the process had not yet been found. That was, until a young woman named Ileana, a victim of an assault, was brought in unconscious to the ER. Accompanied by her blind date, named Bucky, who had arrived at the scene of the assault too late to prevent it, Wanda was surprised to find that he was Lord Buchanan's counterpart, while Ileana was another counterpart of the nobleman's deceased wife Elena. Advising the Sorceress of the pair's appearance, they sent this version of Ileana to that world, hoping that this time she would choose to stay. Still, they prepared for the possibility she wouldn't. At the time, both the Sorceress and the doctor believed only one of the two young women would survive. After several tense days that fear proved groundless as both versions chose to stay where they were, binding themselves to their world's James Buchanan Barnes.

In that world that was thrown back in time, Ileana quickly became Lady Buchanan, and joined the Queen's Guard, learning the necessities of sword play, and physical fighting with a staff or pike. Over a longer time, the mother of two daughters and two sons, became an essential part of the Queen's Council, formed of both modern and native-born women in the kingdom. Arising out of an ad hoc strike that formed where the women of the kingdom refused their services unless they received the same rights as men, it spread to a movement to improve health care, educational opportunities in higher learning and trades, and raise the standard of living overall.

Her version of James Buchanan Barnes, Lord Buchanan, remained as the King's Right Hand, his most trusted advisor. He became a leading statesman for the kingdom, travelling across the land and even across the ocean to the east, establishing diplomatic relations with those kingdoms that had survived the calamity there. Remaining allied closely to the Kingdom of the Green Lands, ruled progressively by King Thorn, the Kingdom of Blue Waters, also ruled progressively by Queen Maria, the Confederation of Oklahoma Tribes, led by the Grand Chief Waya, and the Lone Star Republic, governed by a council led by his foster son, Quin Torres-Walker, Buchanan often travelled with their emissaries as a group, showing a unified position to the rest of the world as they sought out the survivors of the calamity, now estimated to have happened almost 700 years before.

For all of his travelling, Buchanan was happiest at home on his estate, with his beloved Ileana. The last of the Sorceress' magic, along with the connection he had with his wife, was what brought him back from the last known appearance of the White Wolf. Although he never transformed into that mystical creature again, it was said that he sometimes rode into the forests of his estate and communed with the wolves there, accompanied by Sky, the black wolf that chose to live with him.

It was more likely to see Buchanan in the company of Dr. Bruce Banner, once known only as Bruce the Giant. Finding his own place in the kingdom as the chief scientific and medical advisor to the king, he lived a mostly quiet life with his wife, Betty, a modern born veterinarian. Able to reclaim his human form, after a moment of realization that he was happy in his situation, he was respected by many and consulted on most endeavours of a scientific nature.

The biggest of those ventures, the coordination of the remaining missiles of destruction, plus others that were located to destroy any remaining asteroids that threatened their world was ambitious. Using the observations of several large telescopes that were discovered and restored, plus the calculations of the supercomputer safely ensconced in the port of the Broken Lands kingdom, a team of modern born scientists, including Banner, and Queen Jane of the Kingdom of the Green Lands, plus several brilliant minds that came from the world as it was, including Lord Anthony Stark, William Harley, and Silas Brenson (still refusing any title offered to him), watched one morning as a coordinated launch of all the missiles was sent into the asteroid cloud. With the cooperation of many to keep the population inside at the moment of impact a great flash was seen from far away, confirming the impact of the missiles on the deadly rocks. Broken up into many smaller, less lethal meteoroids that mostly burned up in the atmosphere, the few that did make it to the ground became treasured souvenirs of the day that their world became free of the threat of destruction from above. For several nights after the event, the night skies glowed as the Northern Lights seemed to celebrate their good fortune. Life for this universe's version of Earth became good and its people prospered.

➿ ➿

In the modern world only a few hours passed between the time Ileana arrived at the emergency room, then woke up and went off into the night with her blind date, Bucky Barnes. The appearance of the Northern Lights so far south as New Orleans, as they walked outside seemed to be a sign that their romance was off to a good start. Certainly, the former Sorceress, now fully integrated into one being, as Dr. Wanda Maximoff, still had enough of her old magic left to give the couple a blessing, ensuring that they would have a good life.

Now just over 700 years old, she had expended all of her supernatural abilities into keeping her old world alive after the calamity that almost destroyed it. It hadn't been just keeping the asteroids at bay, nudging them in space to avoid impact as best she could. It had also been ensuring that the satellites visible in the sky to Lord Buchanan that one night, kept circling the planet without decaying their orbits, especially the International Space Station. Viewing that had confirmed to the modern born women that the backwards world they now found themselves on had once been advanced and could be again. Her powers had also been used to keep batteries charged in the missile silos, long enough for them to be discovered, explored, then powered by solar or wind power developed on site. Countless encounters between modern borns, and native borns, even the pairing of certain native borns had been instigated by her, in the hopes of creating the necessary partnerships that would save the world. The draining of her own powers was freely given, and she was now content to live her life as a mortal, aging normally in this modern world she now found herself in.

Wanda would always remember the moment she first saw the gravely injured Lord Buchanan on the battlefield after the defeat of the Mad Titan, realizing this was the man who could be the linchpin of the great change needed to save her home world. In an instant, she recognized the nobility within him, seeing his whole past and future history flash in her mind. From his beginnings as a lowly born farmer, reluctant but exemplary soldier, and almost priest, to respected lord and statesman, she saw the path laid before him with clarity, a path she could ensure would happen. There would be times of heartbreak, but also great happiness and satisfaction in his life, for he truly saw the greater picture, and was a man who saw duty as an obligation. More than anyone else, she would ensure his survival and his happiness, knowing that he was worthy of the accolades that would be said about him for many years. Because of her, the story of Lord Buchanan, born James Buchanan Barnes, would be part of that world's history forever.

THE END - FINALLY!

Series masterlist

Please support the author by reblogging.

#bucky barnes #bucky barnes fanfiction #buckybarnes original female character #medieval bucky #bucky barnes au #james buchanan barnes au #wanda maximoff #dying world

9 notes · View notes

blackestnight · 1 year ago

Text

what's in my bag: hopeless nerd edition

by popular demand (read: like three people), have the contents of my bag when i'm playing ttrpgs in person!

in no particular order:

laptop. i use digital character sheets for most of the games i play, mainly so i don't have to do math every time i level up. pf2 (my preferred ttrpg system) also has specific restrictions for organized play, and the digital tool i use has a settings toggle for society-compliant characters, which is super handy. i can also keep tabs open for quick rules/item lookups.

case, etc. i keep my laptop in a soft sleeve that comes with a pocket for the charger, a wireless mouse, and a tablet pen. the laptop is a 2-in-1, so depending on available table space i might fold it up and keep it in my lap in tablet mode, using the pen to navigate my character sheet instead of the mouse.

power bank. a relatively new addition. outlet space is always at a premium at events, and while my laptop's battery is pretty good, my phone is old and the battery is starting to give out, so better safe than sorry. i got this power pack for like $40 at meijer and it's great.

binder. for holding chronicle sheets (basically after-session rewards handouts for organized play). i have different folders for each character. i also try to keep hard copies of character sheets in case of technological or internet failure, but uh. i usually. forget. oops.

gum. usually with me wherever i go anyway. it's good for mitigating the takeout breath after ordering dinner. also helps mitigate distracted snacking.

water bottle. hydrate or die-drate, bitch.

pens and pencils. even as a person who uses digital sheets, you need pencils. i don't care who you are. if nothing else, you may end up needing to play a pre-generated character and keep track of HP, and you don't want to be the asshole marking up someone else's sheets in pen. i prefer pens for my own note-taking and filling out chronicle sheets, but i always keep a few pencils (a nice one for me and shitty ones to loan to other people).

miniatures. not strictly necessary. not all games use physical minis and maps for tactical combat, and small things like coins, bottle caps, extra dice, or (especially for enemies) candies are all mainstays of the tradition. i don't always bring mine to regular home campaign sessions, but for society play and cons i keep them in a little plastic tacklebox. i have some fancy ~custom~ minis for long-running characters, and more generic plastic ones, plus some poker chips and bases for things like pets, mounts, and summons.

dice. clickety clackety, i roll to attackity. my dice collection is extensive and nearly all blue (gasp). "but cyan," you ask, "do you actually need to bring that many dice?" yes. the most superstitious people you will ever meet are theatre nerds and tabletop gamers. you need several sets on hand to combat the Dice Curse. (or loan to other players. or roll fireballs. et cetera.) my dice bag was handmade for me by my best friend in high school, based on my first ever d&d character, and i still use it all the time. for events where i'll be able to spread out more, or for home games, i also have a dice vault with a built-in tray.

tray. to keep my dice from running away, or getting damaged on the table (or damaging the table if we're talking metal dice). lays flat when unsnapped for easy transport. also, it's a kitty!

notebooks. i usually have a couple on me for different purposes. the skull notebook is for session notes—which i don't usually take, WHICH IS BAD, and i'm trying to get into the habit. i'll write shorthand bullet notes during the session and then tidy up/convert into better summaries in a digital notebook later. the sticker-fied (yes, i put stickers on basically all of my possessions) is for brainstorming and note-taking for my homebrew campaign, because nothing is quite as inspiring as a weekend of getting tormented by other GMs.

book. for downtime/between sessions. the nice thing about tabletop cons is that there's always a chair somewhere.

and that's basically it! i might swap a couple things out if i'm running as a GM, but as a player this is my go-to.

and if you're looking at this and going, "where are the rulebooks?" the answer is i usually don't bring them with me in a physical format when i'm traveling. for PF2, i have access to all the PDFs, but Archives of Nethys and PF2 Easy are both fantastic (and FREE) digital rules references. i prefer Easy for searching items and spells, but AoN is an unparalleled rules resource, and they work directly with paizo to update the rules with each errata release. it has every rule, item, spell, creature, and character option from every book, with no paywalls or ads. the only thing you can't get are official maps or encounter blocks from the adventure paths. check it out if you're interested in playing!

#cyan's ttrpg adventures #journal #HEY LOOK. STUFF.

12 notes · View notes

babacontainsmultitudes · 2 years ago

Note

Heya Baba! <3 I remember you mentioned Lark and Grant recently and I would love to know more!! So Lark/Grant for the ship bingo :)

😊🌸 Hiya Countless!!! Eheh y'know, I have this awful habit of putting off answering your asks specifically because I want to be especially thorough with them... And consequently not getting to answering them 😅😓. Like, I HAVE NOT forgotten about the music one LOL one day I will answer it I fucking swear!!!

Anyways, oooh, well rad of you to express interest in this one! I'll try my best!

(eheh also fair warning I'm a tad drunk eheheh but hopefully this will still be reasonably comprehensible? Just to say that I might be a bit extra all over the place but I'm trying my best ahaha. Also cheers lol 🍻💜)

(My second bingo I think? I'm too lazy to mark them lol)

Okay so the thing is, in my head I know exactly how I want this ship to play out and what it means to me... But putting that into words? Quite difficult actually!

I've been like, silently obsessing over these two for the past few months actually. I did this to myself? It was an accident?? I have this non-magical AU road trip fic for them that I've been rotating around for the longest time and have been *dying* to write, so I guess that's what a lot of my thoughts have centered around! That said, if I could explain the appeal more generally...

*Well*, as far as ships I feel strongly positive about go, this one is... Definitely one of the most unapologetically toxic ones tbh? Not as the end game for them! Rather, usually when these two play out in my head it sorta starts as two people with a lot of conflict between them (perhaps cause they're so similar in a lot of ways), who ultimately come to understand each other very well and grow as a result. Does that make sense? I think they make each other worse, and *then* they make each other better.

So what is it about them? Well... It's a bit hard to place actually! I would say that near its core, their relationship to me is very much defined by its physicality. Which I guess I mean from a number of angles (eheh including the sexual side sure but I'll spare you that dw I'll spare you from that LOL). For one there's... Something very physical about both of their most core traumas (the pyramid, the chimera) that to me separates these two from the rest of the other kid(dad)s? Similarly, and perhaps related to this, they certainly have a relationship with physical violence that is unlike the others as well, wherein it tends to be more of a pleasure or source of catharsis rather than purely being a necessary evil. Obviously in Grant's case this takes on a particularly dark tone, but still I think Lark's violent disposition is apparent and important enough.

I'll go back to all of that shortly but as a side tangent, they both have similar (albeit not identical) habits of shutting down and pushing people away as well? There's a lot of self-loathing, a lot of not believing oneself to be worthy of love, and so on and so forth.

SOOOOOO... I think at first they could be very cold and mean with each other! (Cue that scene in The Staircase when Lark body checks Grant to push past hm like ouch ooo my feelings but also *go on*). Verbal communication only goes so far with either of them, seeing oneself in the other and projecting that self-loathing onto them in the form of hate... It's a recipe for disaster tbh.

So... They fight! Especially like, physically, they fight. And... It's great? For both of them. It's an outlet, it's cathartic, and when it's just the two of them like this they can be shameless about it! <- That last part is important, for both of them but especially for Grant I think.

>> Now playing: "A Kiss With a Fist" by Florence and the Machine >>

And I think with time they learn to be more open with one another in other ways? As I mentioned earlier, their traumas bear a lot of similarities, among other things, so I think that once they reach this point there's this level of understanding between them that they haven't really been able to find elsewhere, and in that, probably some comfort. And trust!!!

So they're not really a couple sorta deal for me even if some of the feelings present might ultimately be romantic? It's more like, they let off some steam, they kiss a bit (or a bit more than a bit), and they love each other in a way that is deep and personal but doesn't require any sort of label, cause words were never what defined them in the first place.

Does any of this make sense??? Did I mention I'm drunk???

Not that this is exactly how it needs to be play out in every iteration of them, either. I guess there's also a lot of hurt/comfort for me with these two. A lot of that has to do with my own headcanons of Lark having PTSD and related symptoms that are quite similar to what Grant goes through, and the mutual understanding that comes with that (in short). And hey, for all the cuts and bruises from their training sessions (and/or consensual roughhousing), there's just as many carefully applied bandages and ice packs afterwards eheheh.

AHA okay this was long oh my goodness. And I still don't feel like I really got what I mean across!

🤔 Honestly, if this explanation turned you *off* from the ship more than anything, that's pretty fair tbh! They're really difficult for me to put into words haha, maybe in fanfiction it would be less off-putting!

Regardless, thank you very much for the ask :3 💜

#I'd have more to say but it would never come out the right way #dndads #I hope this kind of made sense????? Gee I really don't know #dungeons and daddies #grant wilson #lark oak #lark oak garcia #grant x lark #tw ptsd #tw violence #there's lowkey way more wholesome shit for these two in my head than this description would lead one to believe I think #gee why is it so hard with them haha #I hope this was kinda interesting at the very least Countless!

15 notes · View notes

dog-leg · 2 years ago

Text

still working out the logistics of this but here’s some things i wanna include in a Po3 Mothpool AU:

Lionfern (my lionblaze) in riverclan:

i would a like a rc perspective in there so we’ll say that since he looked too much like Mothwing, and that could cause issues in thunderclan, her and Leafpool decided to have Moth take him with her. Also, Lion just seems like such a big, loveable guy in my version, that he would my idea of Riverclan. which leads us into,

Clan culture overhaul:

each clan is going to have a different culture, i’ll do an in-depth post on each clan later but things ARE changing. they’ve always had different outlooks on topics such as death, half clan relationships, code breaking, omens and prophecies, etc. But since they’ve moved to the lake they have had time to explore these ideals with things such as new resources and new dangers. i also plan on having Jaypatch (jayfeather) be in thunderclan still so that would give an outlet to compare different clans.

Larger time gap:

tnp and po3 don’t have a big gap in between them, if i’m remembering it correctly i would say it’s anywhere from 3-5 month, which i don’t like. Po3 and Oots are also so close so really you have three arcs that take place within like 3 years. i want the clans to be super settled in and while they all remember the great journey, there’s also like two generations who didn’t go on it. just for story interest i’d rather do that.

Lionfern trains as a Medic:

Jay is going to train as a warrior at first then choose to become a medic, Lion is going to do the opposite. however there will be a period where they overlap as both being medics, giving them a chance to interact and form biases on each other without the knowledge that they’re related (that’ll come later, obvi). Lion gets drawn into the Dark Forest (which is also getting a redux) and trains there until he comes to his senses and realises how much he’s been manipulated. He feels ashamed and steps down, citing the fact that starclan could never possibly forgive him for this (Mothwing rolls her eyes at that comment). He later sheds those feelings but stays a warrior out of pride, he feels as though he can better serve his clan if he is out there doing all the physical labour. Willowshine then takes his place swiftly, always having had unusually direct contact with starclan for being a warrior.

Hollydusk (Hollyleaf)‘s struggle with accepting things as they are:

Hollydusk is interesting, i’m not sure which clan i want her in put i know i want her to crave change, by any means necessary. She always wonders why things are in the clans if they clearly make people unhappy. She sees how strict the code is and wants to change it herself, she can tell how stressed cats are living under it after all, why shouldn’t she be the one to do something about it. This leads to her being a massive snoop and finding out her parentage, drama ensues, villain arc begins. She is also influenced by the dark forest, them feeding into her power hungry nature, telling her that what she’s doing is for the greater good, who cares how many people get hurt in the process? she’s only enforcing what will be best for them, they’ll understand one day.

Jaypatch’s Warrior training:

Jay is still blind, for obvious reasons, and still faces the same shit from thunderclan. He works himself to death just to prove he can be an apprentice like everyone else (this is where his resentment starts :DDD). he gets apprenticed to brightheart because god let that woman have an apprentice, but their personalities just clash way too much. His bitterness ALSO gets him drawn to the dark forest where he’s promised to be able to train like anyone else there. he takes a long time to leave, even being influenced by them in his medic days (he may even still be training during Oots). He chooses to be a medic after his warrior ceremony though, his hard work also payed off and he got to become a warrior early due to his skills. he faces his first battle however and it dawns on him how much he hates fighting, how he only trained so hard in it to prove himself and not because he actually enjoyed it. Df takes note of this and influences him to peruse the path, they don’t tell him, but having control over half the clan’s sole spiritual advisers would certainly make their plans easier.

all three receive the power of three prophecy:

Lion is the first to receive it, once he denounces the dark forest starclan visits him and tells him of it. he tries hard to find the three, not even realising it was him all along.

Holly receives it next, she however gets it told to her through the df. she automatically assumes it’s about her, and in her mind it only proves what she’s know all along, that she was destined for greatness.

Jay is next, he however forces it out, overhearing firestar thinking about it with his powers. at this point he’s realised his capabilities and knows it’s about him, he doesn’t know who else it could he though. if Holly is thunderclan he’ll think that it can’t be them as there isn’t a third, if she isn’t then he’ll think the same, only it’s about him being an only child.

finally, Sol:

he is a cult leader. one of the povs becomes a follower. and once he’s taken down he stays in riverclan as a sassy elder. i think it’d be funny

#i’d love to hear any comments on this #and if you have a name suggestion for what i should call this au let me know #dog’s barks #po3 rewrite

10 notes · View notes

chipped-chimera · 10 months ago

Text

Thought I'd do a little bit of a personal update! I'm doing the reorganising thing which is still slow but really motivating - enough that I'm having good energy days where I'm getting more done! I should be able to start work on the new fish tank soon!

More commentary/thoughts/where I'm going creatively below the cut. (It might be a bit heavy, you've been warned - check tags for more info)

EDIT: Fixed Tumblr borking this, now looks like how this WAS SUPPOSED TO oof

So I'm in the process of redoing my entire office just to fit this fish thank (which has now been leak tested so we're good to go), as well as reorganising based on tips I picked up from this book for people with ADHD that I've found massively helpful. Honestly it's been great for helping me just THROW SHIT OUT because while I can have my moments of ruthless detachment and clear inventory my family is very much a 'use/reuse/reappropriate' kind of deal, which while great often gives me hesitation throwing stuff out primarily because of that pressure - especially when I'm stuck living with them. Now I know it's necessary to get everything to a state where it will STAY organised.

It's also let me take inventory of the stupid amount of traditional media art supplies which have been sitting there since high school in near pristine unused condition (we are talking a LOT of very useable acrylic paints here) and get them all organised. After chatting with my psychologist yesterday I've bought more/replacements for things I had to throw out (literally dry as a bone markers) as she literally said she 'very much encouraged' my idea of starting a visual art diary to help process emotions and stuff.

I know over the years my inspiration to do stuff has withered, usually because it's been hammered by bad moods (caused primarily by external forces I could not control on top of my already battered neurology). I know now because of shit in my past that has been largely unresolved, art has never been an outlet for emotions for me because I'm so afraid of taking up space. Despite emotions being a powerful source for art, I rarely draw on them both because I have spent so much time trying not to feel them or hiding them because unfortunately my history is one of a lot of rejection, right down to a very young age where my caregivers should have been way more on the ball. It's helped me acknowledge my way of expressing love and affection is kind of fucked - when I feel close to someone or like them a lot it has the opposite effect where I instinctively want to pull away from them because I'm scared I'm going to 'ruin it', like my life is tainted and by associating with them I'll drag them down somehow. I know it's silly but it's very hard to get past because it's automatic - that was the only way I was guarenteed to get affection, if I was the most borin, biddable, palatable child in existence who caused no problems, even if it meant enduring physical and emotional pain alone. I inherently find it hard to trust people being genuine about liking me as a person because I'm just waiting for the shoe to drop when they realise I'm too much hassle - which unfortunately was the circumstance my relationship ended around so yeah, that did not fucking help. Basically I go from being really comfortable around someone to masking intensely and yeah that is NOT GOOD. I also legit feel the reason I have alexytheimia is because I had to develop a buffer so early in my life just to survive as far as I have.

I'm hoping art journalling will help me process some of those thoughts and feelings and I still want to try and show them, just to show myself they DO have value, they are a valid part of the human experience and they should be allowed to take up space - I do not need to hide them away or cut pieces of myself out to become more 'palateable' to people. So yeah um, I guess there will be some vent art, I don't know if I'll post only to my art blog or here because it's more sketchy shit and I reserve the art blog for finished pieces now ... either way knowing me it's going to be highly metaphorical and symbolic so I don't know how 'triggering' it could be but either way I'll probably tag the absolute shit out of it just to make sure I don't adversely effect someone (yes I am aware of the irony in me saying that as it's basically me trying to 'not ruin' things again but even putting it out there at all is a big enough step - also tags are just basic decency).

So uh ... That's what I've been up to? Also why I've been kind of shit about WIP Wednesday tagging and responding to other tag games (which I am now once again remembering a bunch of that I STILL have sitting in my motifs cause I still wanna do them ; m ;) I think I tend to get something like reverse SAD this time of year, arguably for the same reasons SAD develops - it gets so damn hot that I have the curtains closed in my office (which has the biggest window in the house) all day to keep the heat out. So arguably I have just made 'tiny dark winter' for about two months because I ain't going outside when it's over 30C (aka the temp tomorrow. And the day after THAT. Fuck I hate summer). Just instead of dark and cold it's dark and sweaty - feeling clammy also being a sensory problem for me so all around BAD TIME until the season changes :/

Outside of all that I'm speculating writing a wlw romance in a western setting because I have had on off cowboy rot since forever and I should probably do something with that already. Currently speculative Native American love interest/secondary protagonist with a background that probably touches on maybe the boarding schools and then reconnection with culture. We've had similar stories with our indigenous population in Australia unfortunately (colonialism is a plague) so I can sort of have some understanding but I probably need to hit the books on that one. For any Americans/Canadians reading this if you know some good books, PLEASE send me your references, I really want to make sure I do this right. I reblogged a post a few days ago about how Native Americans are often dehumanised in westerns and they just become part of the landscape, and I really want to push against that. Also do some contrasting against how oppressive western colonial era culture was by comparison to native culture honestly because I feel that would be a really interesting dynamic. Idk when/if stuff with this project will start happening but we'll see.

If you read this far, thanks! It's pretty validating to know people care this much, since it's hard for me to believe people do care a lot of the time because of all the above bullshit. So just so you know, I love you guys 💖 and you get a bonus cat:

Tiny p.s. living with my parents now is very different from when I was a child, I know the people who caused me hurt are long, long gone. They are not the same people anymore - so I am okay! It's still frustrating but more for the reasons of wishing I had my own (bigger) space to live in and put all my stuff and just 'I am a 30 year old extremely supressed lesbian speed running puberty and this environment is not conducive to exploring that' if anything. While I'm out with my Mum I can't like ... talk about that shit lol. So yeah, frustrating but for entirely different reasons. Just clearing that up.

#kerytalk #trigger warnings:#trauma #emotional neglect #depression #honestly it's pretty light on specifics though so hopefully ok #healing

1 note · View note

lightdancer1 · 1 year ago

Text

I still think that there's one bit of A Winter's Tale that a lot of meta and fanfics neatly skip past:

The funny bit is that when I use this in my own fics it's basically the bargain basement level of textual analysis and when I lay it out you'll see why. Because the Endless, after all, are anthropomorphic personifications defined by their jobs, ultimately, that take a physical and metaphorical form as their realms and the nature of their being. Dream and Destruction struggle with it in ways not unlike Death, but here it gets into the interrelated but that I will also bring up.

As per A Winter's Tale and the (slightly modified) version of it in the show, Death has a vision of her job/function unlike any of her siblings. In the comics, the harder version that I prefer to use over the show, she outright walked out because her job wore her down and she had, essentially, a nervous breakdown because of a deep depression that a careful reading of A Winter's Tale shows she's in denial about never addressing. Naturally my stories tend to hit her with this Negan Bat with great gusto.

Now factor this is in from a canonical POV and a family of beings who are defined by tasks, where Dream and Destiny are the most rigid....and then equally factor in the irony that Dream, one of the two most rigid, is at his closest with the one who's ultimately one of the least and the most flighty about aspects of details of her job. Factor in that this family of immortals who date from the dawn of time have one person in the family who completely cracked and walked out and broke reality in the process.

From their POV it would no doubt be a thing that hung over their sister and her decisions and a thing that they and those old enough to have been there would long remember. From the perspective of job-defined inhuman immortals, the very thing that would make Death the most appealing to humans are a mark of permanent failure on her part, while her becoming mortal and taking her mortal days might well anchor her in mortal affairs in a way only Destruction comes close to.....but it can easily be read in a much darker fashion than I usually would be inclined to take it because I've struggled with those thoughts myself and writing that into fiction is playing with fire when soaked with gasoline.

A human would see the events of A Winter's Tale as 'the job got to you and it was hard' and understand that. Would the Endless? Even Destruction? Ultimately no, I don't think any of them really could understand that even if they tried, and there are some careful looks at Destruction's actions in Brief Lives and Song of Orpheus that both strengthen the parallel with Death and where they differ.

Death is willing to fully yield her power for 24 hours a century to live among mortals without any of the sorcery and the responsibility and the nature of the Endless. None of her siblings are willing to go so far, or to truly experience life within the worlds they govern in that way.

And then combine this with the knowledge that unlike the rest she will outlive the universe, and without the universe Death of the Endless is but a title and a moment in time, a true job that will one day end....at the price that all her siblings go into something she cannot see and she alone cannot. And then take another look at the mortal days and as much as it anchors her in the mortal world and in being able to relate to mortals it can be seen in that darker sense as both an escape hatch and a deeply necessary one because she is ultimately still chasing the same outlet she tried to get and failed and only returned to because well....

#death of the endless #sandman meta #the endless #this does when you think about it add all kind of layers to Death and Dream as they actually are #and it points to the ultimate reality of a two-edged tragedy #both of them could desperately gain to benefit from interacting with each other #Death reminds Dream that the lord of stories very much is one himself and can truly live #Dream reminds Death that she is not in fact alone and that her siblings have issues of their own she can help with and which she tries to #but in the end Dream puts Death on a pedestal that she does not truthfully deserve any more than anyone else #and Death trying to communicate with her brother and IMO to at least partially to change his path fails #it's not a healthy relationship because it's two powerful beings divided by a common language #and because that very division sets up certain specific aspects of foreshadowing #and in the end Death will be alone more than any other of her siblings with only their stories and memories left #so in that sense Dream's own struggles are but pale shadows of a much deeper one that could have helped them both to actually mention #but neither can

2 notes · View notes

monarchworkspaces2 · 27 days ago

Text

Finding the Ideal Office Space in Bangalore: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the right office space in Bangalore is one of the most critical decisions for any business, whether you're a startup, an established enterprise, or a freelance professional. The right office not only acts as a physical embodiment of your company’s brand and culture but also impacts productivity, operational efficiency, and employee satisfaction. In a city like Bangalore , which is growing as India’s tech and startup hub, the diversity of available office spaces can be overwhelming. With different types of commercial spaces—ranging from coworking offices and managed spaces to traditional leases—knowing how to pick the right one is crucial.

This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process of finding the ideal office space in Bangalore , ensuring that your choice aligns with your company’s budget, growth plans, and operational needs.

Step 1: Define Your Company’s Requirements

Before exploring office options, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your specific needs. Take time to assess your objectives and list out the features your ideal workspace should provide. You should answer the following questions:

1.1. How much space do you need?

Estimate the number of employees you currently have and project future headcount growth. The general rule is to allocate around 100-120 square feet per employee , but this may vary based on preferences for open-plan seating or private offices.

Determine additional space needs for meeting rooms, breakout areas, lounges, cafeterias, and storage.

1.2. What’s your budget?

Your budget is arguably the most critical factor. Decide how much you’re willing to spend monthly or annually and consider both direct (rent, utilities) and indirect costs (maintenance, security).

Remember that coworking or managed office spaces often include utilities, while traditional offices may require additional overheads.

1.3. Which type of office space fits your requirements?

Coworking Spaces : Great for freelancers, small teams, and startups. They offer a communal and energetic environment with amenities like high-speed internet, reception services, and meeting rooms—all at a relatively low cost.

Managed Office Spaces : Ideal for small to medium enterprises, offering fully furnished and serviced office spaces. These spaces usually come with flexible leasing terms and are fully equipped with the necessary infrastructure.

Traditional Leased Office : Suitable for established businesses that require long-term solutions and customizations. It involves leasing a commercial space and handling installation, furnishing, and management independently.

Step 2: Choose the Perfect Location

Bangalore is a large, diverse city, and location plays a pivotal role in the efficiency and branding of your business. A premium location can help attract top talent, ensure easy accessibility for your employees, and present a professional image to clients.

2.1. Proximity to Key Clients & Employees

Consider where the majority of your clients are based. Having an office near clients can help in building stronger relationships and providing quicker response times.

Ensure that the office has convenient access for your employees, especially in terms of transportation. Locations near public transit hubs, such as metro lines or bus routes, are a great advantage.

2.2. Key Office Hotspots in Bangalore

Some prominent business locations in Bangalore include:

Koramangala : A startup and tech hub, popular among young entrepreneurs and firms. It’s also known for its lively ambience with cafes, coworking spaces, and restaurants nearby.

Indiranagar : Known for its premium office space in Bangalore, this area boasts a cosmopolitan buzz and proximity to upscale dining and shopping outlets, making it popular for creative industries and startups.

Whitefield : A commercial hub home to various multinational IT companies and premium co-working spaces. Ideal for tech and software firms.

MG Road and Brigade Road : These are major commercial areas offering a mix of high-end office spaces, dealing primarily with larger enterprises, legal firms, and retail giants.

Electronic City : If you're operating in the IT sector, this area provides tech parks and several robust educational institutions.

2.3. Employee Convenience and Lifestyle Facilities

Nearby amenities like restaurants, gyms, transport hubs, and retail stores all contribute to employee satisfaction.

Consider parking facilities , especially in Bangalore, where traffic and parking space shortages are a common issue.

2.4. Safety and Security

Ensure the office is in a safe neighborhood with 24/7 security.

Proximity to healthcare institutes and emergency services is a plus.

Step 3: Evaluate Office Space Options

Once you've determined your needs and chosen a location, it's time to explore different office space options. Keep the following points in mind during your evaluation:

3.1. Square Footage and Layout

Is the size flexible enough to accommodate team expansion?

Inspect the layout to ensure it complements your company’s workflow—whether that’s an open-plan workspace, individual cabins, or a mix of both.

Look for spaces that offer modularity , enabling you to reconfigure the layout as your company evolves.

3.2. Amenities and Facilities

What amenities are provided by the office space? For coworking or managed spaces , these often include Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, printers, IT support, pantry services, and cafes. Managed spaces might also offer perks such as cleaning services, reception, mail handling, and security.

Are there common spaces for team collaboration, break rooms, or recreational areas for employees to unwind?

Does the office have essential meeting rooms and conference spaces with presentation tools or video conferencing setups?

3.3. Future-Proof the Office with Technology

Ensure stable, reliable high-speed internet connectivity.

Make sure there are secure IT infrastructures , including dedicated servers or cloud storage options.

Look for smart office features like IoT-enabled devices, app-based management systems, and smart security access.

3.4. Maintenance and Support

Pay close attention to the kind of support you’ll receive from the property management:

Does the space offer on-site IT support and facility management ?

Ask about AC maintenance, plumbing, electrical stability, and general upkeep.

Step 4: Visit and Inspect Each Shortlisted Office Space

While online research and phone conversations provide a basic understanding, nothing beats a physical tour of the property. Schedule a visit to see the space firsthand, and pay close attention to:

Natural Light : Does the space have sufficient lighting? Lack of natural light can affect employee morale and productivity.

Noise Levels : Evaluate how noisy the office and its surroundings are. A workplace with minimal external disturbances is key to maintaining focus.

Air Quality and Ventilation : Fresh air ventilation and AC systems are essential, especially in cities like Bangalore, where temperatures vary.

Safety and Cleanliness : Inspect proximity to emergency exits, and assess general cleanliness, especially in shared spaces like the kitchen and bathrooms.

Step 5: Understand Lease Terms Clearly

Before making any commitments, ensure total clarity around the lease terms:

5.1. Length & Flexibility

For rapidly growing companies, negotiate a flexible lease that allows for expansion or downsizing without heavy penalties.

5.2. Cost Breakdown

Understand the breakdown of costs , from monthly rent to utilities, upkeep, and security deposits.

Avoid hidden costs by confirming what's included in the monthly rent and what's extra (e.g., electricity, internet, parking).

5.3. Termination Conditions

Review the termination clauses and determine if there are penalty fees for early termination or lease-break.

Step 6: Make a Decision & Move In

Once you’ve reviewed the available options, considered the budget, and negotiated favorable terms, it’s time to secure the office and plan for the transition:

Logistics : Coordinate with movers to ensure a smooth transition into the new space.

Setup & Branding : Set up essentials like IT equipment, desks, and AV systems. Consider adding your company’s branding to meeting rooms or common areas to make the space feel like a true extension of your business.

Culture Integration : Open the doors with a team event or welcome orientation to introduce the space to your employees. Ensure they are comfortable with the new location and amenities.

Conclusion

Finding the ideal office space in Bangalore may seem daunting given the wide array of choices, but by following a structured approach, you can ensure that your office serves as a functional, inspiring, and strategic asset for your business. Whether you opt for a coworking space, a managed office, or a long-term lease in a business hub, keeping flexibility, employee well-being, and cost efficiency in mind will guide you towards the right choice.

0 notes

pappypaws · 3 months ago

Text

Top Reasons to Choose Pet Boarding in Noida for Your Dog's Care

As a pet parent, ensuring the well-being of your dog when you're away is a top priority. Whether you're going on vacation, working long hours, or dealing with unexpected events, leaving your furry friend in capable hands is essential. Pet boarding in Noida has become increasingly popular, offering safe, engaging, and comfortable facilities for dogs while their owners are away. Here’s why choosing pet boarding could be the best decision for your dog's care.

1. Professional Supervision and Care

Pet boarding facilities are staffed with trained professionals who understand the needs of dogs. They are equipped to handle different breeds, temperaments, and any special requirements your dog may have. With round-the-clock supervision, you can rest assured that your dog is in safe hands. This level of care is especially important if your dog has health issues or requires regular medication, as the staff is trained to manage such needs.

2. Socialization Opportunities

Dogs are social animals, and pet boarding offers a great opportunity for them to interact with other dogs. This interaction helps in reducing anxiety, improving social skills, and providing a healthy outlet for their energy. Many boarding facilities organize group play sessions, ensuring your dog gets ample time to play, make new friends, and stay active. This socialization can be beneficial for dogs who are usually shy or anxious around other animals.

3. Structured Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and a disruption to their daily schedule can cause stress. Pet boarding facilities maintain a structured routine for feeding, exercise, and playtime, closely mirroring your dog's regular schedule at home. This consistency helps to reduce anxiety and makes the transition smoother for your dog, allowing them to feel more comfortable and secure in a new environment.

4. Safe and Secure Environment

Safety is a top priority in pet boarding facilities. These places are designed to keep your dog safe, with secure enclosures, climate-controlled spaces, and regular health checks. Additionally, the facilities are equipped to handle emergencies, ensuring your dog receives immediate care if needed. The controlled environment also minimizes the risk of your dog escaping or getting into dangerous situations, which can be a concern if left at home alone or with inexperienced caregivers.

5. Mental and Physical Stimulation

Boredom and lack of stimulation can lead to destructive behavior in dogs. Pet boarding facilities offer a range of activities to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged. From puzzle toys to agility courses and interactive play, these activities help to keep your dog entertained, reduce stress, and provide the necessary exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Regular stimulation also helps in preventing issues like separation anxiety, ensuring your dog remains calm and content during your absence.

6. Grooming and Additional Services

Many pet boarding facilities offer grooming services as part of their package or as an add-on. This means your dog can enjoy a bath, nail trimming, or even a full grooming session while you're away. Regular grooming is essential for maintaining your dog’s health and hygiene, and having it done while boarding can save you time. Some facilities also offer training sessions, massages, or special treats, allowing your dog to have a mini-vacation of their own.

7. Peace of Mind for Pet Parents

One of the greatest benefits of choosing pet boarding is the peace of mind it offers. Knowing that your dog is being cared for by professionals in a secure environment allows you to focus on your travel, work, or other commitments without worrying about your pet’s well-being. Many boarding facilities provide updates, photos, or even live webcam access, so you can check in on your dog and see how they're doing at any time.

8. Specialized Care for Unique Needs

If your dog has special needs, such as dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or behavioral issues, pet boarding facilities can provide customized care. The staff is trained to administer medication, manage specific diets, and handle any behavioral challenges. This level of care ensures that your dog’s unique needs are met, giving you confidence that they are receiving the attention they require.

9. Convenience and Flexibility

Pet boarding facilities often offer flexible drop-off and pick-up times, making it convenient for pet parents with busy schedules. Some even provide transportation services, picking up and dropping off your dog at your home. This flexibility makes it easier to coordinate your plans without worrying about your dog's care.

10. Social Media and Technology Integration

Many modern pet boarding facilities have embraced technology, offering pet parents access to social media updates, photos, and even live video streams of their pets. This allows you to stay connected with your dog, see how they’re doing, and interact with the staff if needed. Such integration of technology enhances the overall experience, providing transparency and reassurance.

Conclusion

Choosing pet boarding in Noida for your dog’s care offers numerous benefits, from professional supervision to socialization and a safe environment. It ensures that your dog remains happy, healthy, and well-cared-for while you’re away, giving you peace of mind. Whether you need care for a day or an extended period, pet boarding is a reliable and convenient option that caters to your dog’s needs, ensuring they receive the best possible care in your absence.

#petboarding #pet boarding service #noida #pappypaws #pet day care

0 notes

shraddhamatre · 4 months ago

Text

Getting the Most Out of the UPRVUNL Exam: 10 Crucial Success Strategies

1. The test for UPRVUNL (Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited) is quite competitive, and preparing for it requires a lot of information. You may, however, ace the test if you have the proper approach and are committed to it. The following 10 pointers will help you ace the UPRVUNL exam: Comprehend the Exam Pattern and Course Content Understanding the curriculum and test format in its entirety is the first step to acing any exam. Sections like General Knowledge, Reasoning, General Hindi, and Technical Knowledge unique to your engineering specialization are commonly seen on the UPRVUNL test. Make sure you understand how important each component is, and adjust your concentration accordingly.

2. Establish a Study Schedule An organized study schedule is essential. Set aside certain times for every subject and follow through on the plan. Make careful you cover every subject and provide time for editing. A balanced schedule and regular study sessions can help you stay on task and cut down on last-minute cramming.

3. Consult standard literature and other sources. When preparing for the UPRVUNL test, use the standard textbooks and reference resources that are highly suggested. Accurate and thorough information is guaranteed when you read books written by reputable writers and outlets. Online tools like e-books and video courses can also enhance your education.

4. Practice with Previous Year's Papers You can gain insight into the format and nature of the test by completing prior years' question papers. It facilitates the identification of key subjects and often requested queries. Additionally, by giving a real-time test experience, it helps with time management.

5. Frequently Take Mock Exams Mock exams are a great tool for determining your level of readiness. They support you in determining your advantages and disadvantages. By taking practice exams frequently, you can increase your accuracy and speed. Examine your results from each exam, identifying areas for improvement.

6. Emphasis on Technical Information A solid understanding of your engineering subject is necessary for technical responsibilities. Make sure you understand the basic ideas and real-world applications. Concentrate on subjects that are tested often and make sure you fully comprehend the guiding concepts.

7. Keep up with current events Current events questions are frequently included in the General Knowledge section. Keep up with the most recent developments, particularly in the areas of energy, science, and technology. You may stay updated by utilizing current affairs apps, reading newspapers, and visiting news websites.

8. Develop Your Overall Hindi Proficiency This part may be difficult for those who do not speak Hindi well. Regularly practice writing and reading in Hindi. To increase your skill, concentrate on your vocabulary, grammar, and understanding. Make use of Hindi language study tools to improve your proficiency.

9. Strengthen Your Analytical and Reasoning Ability Analytical and reasoning abilities are essential for the test. These abilities can be improved with regular practice of logical thinking tasks, riddles, and analytical challenges. Practice answering all kinds of problems by using logic literature and internet resources.

10. Maintain Your Health and Control Your Stress A person's physical and mental health are important factors in exam preparation. Make sure you eat well, exercise frequently, and get adequate sleep. Utilize stress-reduction methods such as yoga and meditation. Your ability to focus and work efficiently can be enhanced by a healthy body and mind.

To sum up, a disciplined approach, frequent practice, and extensive study are all necessary to ace the UPRVUNL test. You may increase your chances of success and get closer to reaching your job objectives by heeding these ten pieces of advice. Recall that achieving success in any competitive test requires persistent work and an optimistic outlook. Wishing you luck!

Start Your Preparation With: https://gameacademy.in/ / https://clppenny.page.link/cTBm Recomended: https://www.youtube.com/@gblions / https://www.youtube.com/@gblionsaeje

0 notes

kuppar · 4 months ago

Text

Sunglasses on Sale: How to Find the Best Deals on Affordable Sunglasses

Sunglasses have evolved from being a mere accessory to a necessary element for both style and eye protection. Whether you're driving, hitting the beach, or simply enjoying a sunny day, a good pair of sunglasses can make all the difference. However, the high prices of top brands can be a significant deterrent. This guide aims to show you that finding the best deals on affordable sunglasses is not only possible but can also be a fun and rewarding experience.

Understanding Different Types of Sunglasses

When searching for the best deals on affordable sunglasses, it's crucial to understand the various types available. Sunglasses come in different shapes, sizes, and functionalities, each serving a unique purpose. From aviators and wayfarers to sports and fashion sunglasses, knowing what suits your needs will help narrow down your options and make your shopping experience more efficient.

Importance of UV Protection in Sunglasses

One of the most important aspects to consider when buying sunglasses is UV protection. Prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can lead to severe eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Therefore, ensure that any sunglasses you purchase, even if on sale, offer 100% UV protection. Many affordable brands provide this feature, so there's no need to compromise on safety for the sake of savings.

Popular Brands Offering Affordable Sunglasses

Several brands are renowned for offering stylish and high-quality sunglasses at affordable prices. Companies like Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Warby Parker have ranges that cater to budget-conscious consumers without sacrificing quality. Additionally, brands like Quay Australia and Sunglass Warehouse provide trendy designs that won't break the bank. Keeping an eye on these brands can help you snag a great deal during sales.

Where to Find the Best Deals on Sunglasses

Knowing where to shop is half the battle when it comes to finding affordable sunglasses. Major retail chains, specialty sunglass stores, and online platforms like Amazon and eBay often have extensive collections with competitive prices. Additionally, checking out smaller boutiques or local stores during their clearance sales can lead to unexpected finds at unbeatable prices.

Shopping During Seasonal Sales

Seasonal sales, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season sales, are excellent opportunities to purchase sunglasses at discounted prices. Retailers often offer significant markdowns during these periods, allowing you to buy high-quality sunglasses at a fraction of their original price. To maximize your savings, create a shopping list ahead of time and keep an eye on your favorite brands for any announcements regarding upcoming sales.

Taking Advantage of Online Discounts

The internet is a treasure trove of deals and discounts. Many online retailers offer exclusive deals that you won't find in physical stores. Websites like Groupon and RetailMeNot compile the latest discount codes and promotions, making it easier for you to find the best deals on affordable sunglasses. Additionally, signing up for newsletters from your favorite brands can grant you access to special promotions and early sale notifications.

Exploring Outlet Stores for Bargains

Outlet stores are known for offering products at reduced prices, and sunglasses are no exception. Brands like Sunglass Hut and Designer Outlet have outlets where you can find last season’s styles or overstock items at significantly lower prices. While the selection might not always be up-to-date with the latest trends, the quality and affordability make it worth a visit.

Utilizing Coupons and Promo Codes

Coupons and promo codes can significantly reduce the cost of your sunglasses purchase. These can be found through various channels, including online coupon websites, store newsletters, and even social media pages of your favorite brands. Before making a purchase, always search for available coupons or promo codes that can be applied at checkout to ensure you're getting the best possible deal.

Understanding the Role of Sunglass Trends

Fashion trends play a significant role in the pricing of sunglasses. Staying informed about the latest trends can help you make savvy purchasing decisions. While trendy sunglasses might come with a higher price tag initially, waiting for the trend to cool down can lead to significant savings. Alternatively, investing in classic styles that never go out of fashion ensures longevity and better value for money.

The Impact of Material and Build on Price

The materials and construction of sunglasses heavily influence their price. High-end sunglasses often use materials like acetate, titanium, or polarized lenses, which offer superior durability and performance. However, there are affordable options that still provide excellent quality. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions and find sunglasses that offer the best value for your budget.

Prescription vs. Non-Prescription Sunglasses

If you wear prescription glasses, investing in prescription sunglasses might be necessary. While these can be more expensive than non-prescription sunglasses, many online retailers offer affordable options. Websites like Zenni Optical and EyeBuyDirect provide prescription sunglasses at competitive prices. Additionally, some brands offer clip-on or magnetic lenses that can be attached to your existing prescription glasses, offering a budget-friendly alternative.

Second-Hand and Vintage Sunglasses: Yay or Nay?

Buying second-hand or vintage sunglasses can be a great way to find unique styles at a lower cost. However, it’s essential to ensure that they are in good condition and offer adequate UV protection. Websites like Depop, Poshmark, and even thrift stores can be good places to hunt for vintage sunglasses. Always check for scratches on the lenses and the overall build quality before making a purchase.

Comparing Prices Across Different Retailers

Price comparison is a crucial step in finding the best deals. With numerous retailers offering sunglasses, prices can vary significantly. Utilize price comparison websites or tools like Google Shopping to compare prices across different platforms. This practice ensures you’re not overpaying and helps you find the most affordable option available.

Benefits of Buying Sunglasses in Bulk

Purchasing sunglasses in bulk can lead to substantial savings, especially if you have a large family or frequently lose or damage your sunglasses. Many retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases. This strategy can be particularly useful for simpler, everyday styles rather than high-end designer sunglasses. It’s an efficient way to ensure you always have a spare pair on hand without spending a fortune.

How to Identify Genuine Sunglasses

When shopping for deals, especially online, it's crucial to ensure the authenticity of the sunglasses. Counterfeit sunglasses can be prevalent and often lack the necessary UV protection. Check for brand-specific markings, serial numbers, and purchase from reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit products. Authentic sunglasses will provide the quality and protection you expect, making them worth the investment.

Ensuring Warranty and Return Policies

Always check the warranty and return policies when purchasing sunglasses, especially during sales. A good warranty ensures that you can replace or repair your sunglasses in case of defects. Retailers with flexible return policies provide peace of mind, allowing you to return or exchange sunglasses if they don’t meet your expectations. This consideration is particularly important when shopping online.

Customer Reviews: An Essential Guide

Customer reviews can offer invaluable insights into the quality and performance of sunglasses. Reading reviews on retail websites, forums, and social media can help you make an informed decision. Pay attention to recurring themes in the reviews, such as comfort, durability, and UV protection. This feedback from other buyers can guide you towards the best deals without compromising on quality.

The Influence of Celebrity Endorsements

Celebrity endorsements can drive the popularity and price of certain sunglasses. While endorsed products often come with a premium price, they can sometimes be found on sale. Keep an eye on these deals if you’re interested in sunglasses popularized by celebrities, but be cautious of overpaying for the brand name alone. It’s always wise to balance style with practicality and affordability.

Accessorizing Your Sunglasses

Accessorizing your sunglasses can enhance their functionality and style. Items like protective cases, cleaning kits, and straps can prolong the life of your sunglasses and add a personal touch. These accessories are often available at discounted prices during sales, making them a worthwhile addition to your purchase. Proper care and maintenance can ensure your sunglasses stay in good condition for years to come.

Customizing Your Sunglasses

Customization options like engraved initials, colored lenses, and unique frames can make your sunglasses truly unique. Many brands offer customization services, allowing you to create a pair that reflects your personal style. While customization can sometimes add to the cost, it can also make your sunglasses a special and lasting accessory. Look out for discounts on customization services during sales.

Sunglasses Maintenance and Care Tips

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your sunglasses. Regularly cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth, storing them in a protective case, and avoiding harsh chemicals can keep them in excellent condition. Additionally, checking the screws and hinges periodically can prevent damage. These simple care tips can help you get the most out of your investment.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Sunglasses Options

Eco-friendly and sustainable sunglasses are becoming increasingly popular. Brands like Pala and Woodzee offer stylish, affordable options made from recycled or biodegradable materials. Choosing sustainable sunglasses not only benefits the environment but often comes with high-quality craftsmanship. These options are available at competitive prices and can often be found on sale, making them a smart choice for the eco-conscious consumer.

Common Mistakes When Buying Sunglasses on Sale

When hunting for deals, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to buyer’s remorse. Common pitfalls include prioritizing style over functionality, neglecting UV protection, and falling for counterfeit products. Avoid these mistakes by setting clear priorities, verifying product authenticity, and reading customer reviews. With careful consideration, you can find sunglasses that offer both style and substance at an affordable price.

Conclusion

Finding the best deals on affordable sunglasses is a combination of strategy, knowledge, and patience. By understanding the different types of sunglasses, leveraging seasonal sales, utilizing online discounts, and being mindful of common pitfalls, you can secure high-quality sunglasses without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for the latest trends or timeless classics, the tips and tricks in this guide will help you navigate the market and find the perfect pair at the best price.

#best sunglasses

0 notes