#and they do payment plans so its not upfront payments

[robinniko]

guess who has to go to the dentist tomorrow!!! 🥰

i do not want to fucking go, but my wisdom teeth is definitely impacted

[diodellet]

Hmm,may i get pretty pls,prompt 10 with lumine ,prompt 15 with arlecchino and maybe prompt 7 with columbina?^^

If possible i would like the reader to be fem and aloof:")

💌Lumine + Prompt #10 (Talking with them for hours about anything and everything, not even feeling the time pass.) ++Female!Reader

“The rain doesn’t seem to be letting up. We will have to camp in this cave for the night,” Lumine says, wringing the fabric of her skirt.

“That’s alright with me.” Could you muster another day’s worth of payment? Your shivering doesn’t abate despite the mortified heat coursing through you.

“Hold on, I’ll get out a warming bottle.”

You sit by the fringes of its orange glow as she prepares dinner. Your adventurer’s cap and green overcoat are laid out on a nearby rock to dry, alongside her scarf and gloves. The meal is taken in silence, save for when you mutter a quiet “thanks” as you hand your bowl to her. 

While she takes first watch, you try settling in your sleeping bag.

To no avail. 

“Move a little closer, you’ll catch a cold.”

“I’m fine right here, thank you.”

She opens a second warming bottle, placing it closer to you. “Better?”

A bit. But the discomfort lingered—the question tumbles from you, “why did you take this commission?”

“To escort you to the outskirts of the Court of Fontaine?”

“...You could’ve done something more noble than babysitting.”

Despite her delicate features, there’s something jaded in her expression as she replies. “I’m not always looking to do something grand.”

“So you’re saying that your reputation—all of your achievements were accidents? Circumstance?”

“Maybe, maybe not. Things don’t always go according to plan, as you’ve seen.”

“...Right.”

Rain continues to fall.

“Getting you to your destination safely is enough payment,” Lumine says, as if signposting the end of that conversation.

Which, you can’t accept. That she’s seen through you like this, that you can barely get a read on her. You’ve listened to so many stories and rumors that you thought you could paint a detailed portrait of the illustrious Traveler. But here, Lumine’s only become more of an enigma.

And that innate adventurer’s curiosity tugs at you, compounds your insomnia.

“There has to be something that I—that will suffice. For your time and effort in accompanying me.” Some hidden treasure, a rare sight, something.

“Who knows what we’ll find?” Lumine appraises you with a faint smile. “I’m glad that you’re actually more talkative than you look.”

Warmth blazes through you. “I’m trying to be courteous—”

(This back and forth continues for several hours. You don’t even realize when you’ve drifted off.)

💌Arlecchino + Prompt #15 (Ranting about how insufferable they are, but your friend thinks knows otherwise. Bonus points if the subject of your conversation overhears Everything) ++Female!Reader (Reader is a Fatui Operative)

You’ve endured the bitter hoarfrost, honed yourself into a ruthlessly efficient blade for the Tsaritsa. Though, unlike some of your colleagues, you’re equally dedicated to your values of being upfront, to never rely on deceit and underhandedness.

“Diplomatic missions,” you feel you could do without.

You’d rather guard the doors to whatever meeting room Arlecchino and her colleagues occupied. Anything over standing at her side, engaging in superficial conversations that skirted around the heart of the issue.

So when she propositions you for a short duel, you should’ve realized that this was to make an example out of your brief moment of outward frustration.

She barely gives you a second to defend yourself. Her weapon is a blur of crimson, metal clanging against your sword, the sheer force of the attack making you skid backwards.

“By all means, please do not hold anything back,” she says.

You aren’t weak. You do your best to put up a good fight instead of relying on evasion. 

(Though it’s obvious to any onlooker that victory was already within her grasp.)

In the end, you’re trapped in between a rock and a hard place. A web of red, wispy spider strings and the business end of her scythe. Mere millimeters away from having your head lopped off. Bruised and winded from exhaustion. Meanwhile she remains pristinely untouched, cold and dignified.

“I…give.”

Those two words seem to have caught her offguard. Arlecchino cocks her head. “Hmm. Already?”

“Yes, Lord Harbinger.” The red strings disperse, but her weapon remains still. She’s waiting for you to continue. “...I deeply apologize for my insubordination.”

In that split-second, you catch the slightest shift in her stoicism. Activating your Delusion, you manage to twist out of her attack—narrowly avoiding being cleaved into two.

“Luckily for you, I can distinguish between needing an outlet and blatant insubordination. Guard.”

You’re barely able to raise your weapon in time, getting knocked onto your back, diaphragm spasming, pain radiating through you.

Those crimson webstrings appear once more, pulling you upright, making your nerves scream from overexertion. “There is a time for civil conversation and a time when one must raise their blade. You may disagree with my methods, but do remember this simple distinction. Especially while I am willing to indulge you.”

Against yourself, your lips pull into a sneer, vigor returning to your limbs anew.

💌Columbina + Prompt #7 (Opening their arms for a hug upon seeing how exhausted you are.) ++Female!Reader (Reader is a Mirror Maiden)

Is she omniscient?

While she carries an air of innocence, Columbina holds some qualities reminiscent of the Divine, so much so that it makes you wonder otherwise.

Especially during idyllic moments in Zapolyarny Palace, the rare times the winter wind recedes, letting her soft humming echo through its halls—your mind can’t stop itself from wandering back to that thought. Is she omniscient?

Say that she might be, that acknowledging the possibility means comparing her—being open to the idea—that she is on the same level as the Tsaritsa. Possibly even cut from the same cloth.

Your gaze tears away from your water mirror, hands coming up to rub at your aching temples. These new findings from the field archaeology division of Capitano’s group have you so busy, you’re only able to manage short naps in between your research.

You’d rather be out on the field, but with the injury, you’re confined to deskwork and research, to burning the midnight oil under the unnerving gaze of the Damselette.

“My, what a set of towers you’ve constructed.” You didn’t even notice her from all the books and reports stacked around the office.

You jolt out of your seat, hastily pulling yourself into a rushed yet deep bow. “Lady Columbina!” 

“You needn’t be so tense, my beloved scholar.” Her voice takes on a gentle, lilting tone. “At ease, please.”

You straighten up out of your bow, but keep your hands neatly folded in front of you. “Thank you, Lady Columbina.”

She gazes up at you, unreadable features morphing into a little frown. “Have you eaten yet?”

“Only a short meal. There is much to be done.” You can’t feel the onset of hunger when you’re so engrossed in unweaving the threads of history and mythology. But the fatigue, you wish you were impervious to it. Remaining still or moving around only seemed to leave you more vulnerable to it.

She hums to herself. The sound beckons you over.

You approach, lowering to her height and into her open arms. Your eyes flutter shut for the briefest second.

(At the very least, there’s something otherworldly about her. Heavenly, perhaps?)

When you come to, you find yourself at your desk, strangely reinvigorated. Columbina is seated on the opposite end of the room. Through the slits of her mask, her eyes are closed. But her gaze lays itself on you, soft and protective.

a/n: when i tell you i was hyped to write sapphic genshin reader inserts. i was so so SO hyped (and scared to write for characs ive never written for before). this was waaaay too overdue, im sorry for taking this long to write em out, but i promise that these prompts picked at my brain in a fun way. thank you for requesting!

[yxstxrdrxxm-a]

SYNOPSIS: Tattooing is a work of art. Though, he definitely saw that it can also be used as more than an art medium itself.

TW/s: yandere behavior, abstract/drabble writing, protective Xiao, he’s a dumbass but its okay, nsfw tws include targeted by the dark web, graphic depictions of violence, near abduction, stalking + sexual harassment. Please proceed with caution.

NOTE FROM HR: Happy Valentine’s Day! It would seem that today just isn't working out for you, is it, miss Ana? Well, never fear! I’m sure our lovely tattoo artist has something to help you with that… Right?

“You’re back.”

That was the first thing that Ana heard from her tattoo artist, Xiao, speak at 1 in the afternoon— a weird time, considering he wasn’t aware she had an appointment booked with him.

“Are you here for a tattoo?” he asked her, making her shake her head. Carrying the food she bought for him, he placed it on the counter, noting the small shift of expression on his face as he caught a whiff of something faintly sweet in the packaging.

“No, but I’m sure you’ve been working for hours on end,” she said, tapping on top of the package. “Here, eat up. I made sure to buy almond tofu for you.”

Now, for those who may be wondering, just how can the reclusive tattoo artist be with a date that’s the clear opposite of his personality?

It was a long story, which started from the very beginning when they matched up in the app.

Xiao isn’t the type to choose anyone on a whim. He has standards, and for him, many others failed to fit those standards. It was also obvious when he saw Ana’s, but instead of scrolling past and ignoring her, he took his time to look into what she wrote. He didn’t want to write her off just yet.

The next thing he knew, he swiped right with her and began to talk to her in the app.

Their conversation topics were all random at first: general get to know questions, their experiences, and even bits of what the two like. The two clicked on what they both liked listening to, which artists they enjoy the most, and even a few preferences for both to tune into. He did suggest a few that lean into crime podcasts, since he tends to listen to them often while he worked on tattooing his clients. Perhaps it was a strange preference, but she didn’t see it that way.

It wasn’t even long until they began to discuss matters in seeing each other in person, and the first time was because of a tattoo appointment she wanted on her arm.

“So, you want this tattoo placed… Here. Am I right?” “Mhm. Do you think you can do it? My friends had said that you were a good tattoo artist, so I wanted to be sure that it’s something you can do.”

The two were sitting at his office as Xiao was looking at the image, examining the tattoo design she wanted him to put on her. The design wasn’t all that complicated, but he knew he could add something to make it pop out easily, and especially with the detailing of her tattoo choice.

“... I can,” he answered, closing the folder as he faced her again. “However, you must pay upfront. I need to get the materials and equipment needed in our next appointment for this type of tattoo on Friday.”

He watched her nod as she handed him the payment, his hand drifting over to grab it and check how much she paid. It was enough for what she wanted, with an additional $20. Raising an eyebrow, he looked over at her and grabbed it, handing it back to his client.

“No need to give me extra,” he told her, sighing. “It’ll be a waste.”

“Oh? Well…”

He could already hear what she planned on telling him. He should take it anyway as she felt bad, or that it’s not right to not tip someone for their services, or—

“... I’ll take it back, then. Thank you again, Xiao. it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

—!

Xiao seemed to be caught off-guard at the turn it took, his eyes widening for a fraction of a second, but it left as quickly as it did. Regaining his composure, he nodded and simply stood up to lead her out of the shop.

“If you need anything from me, you know my number,” he told her, his amber eyes shifting away for a moment. “... And if you want to go on a date, call me.”

It was strange. He’s not used to romance, and Zhongli had all but taught him how. He wanted to say that he had the confidence like that old man has, but he’s still learning. And Gods, he’s unable to even comprehend how social interaction and cues work.

Still, he did hear her laugh and feel a gentle warmth on his shoulder.

It felt nice.

“Of course! For now, I need to go and meet my friends this afternoon. Goodbye, Xiao.”

As the warmth left his shoulder, he finally raised his head to watch the lady exit, his eyes drifting to her while he recalled the expression she wore in front of him.

Such a gentle smile, unwavering and confident. He had always admired those who could do it without a single moment of hesitation, and sometimes, he found himself loathing that he couldn’t do the same. To be able to smile and look onwards, like nothing was bothering them in the first place.

He sighed and raised a hand to sift through his hair. The bitter feeling rising in him was something he disliked, but he couldn’t bring himself to blame it on her.

It was their first meeting, and it was one that Xiao remembered well.

How ironic, considering the next ones were as eventful as the first, if not even more than anything he’s endured.

The second time this happened was when he was on one of the first few dates with Ana. The two were surprisingly able to her friends commenting on how she found someone and kept it a secret from them.

He didn't like to make their relationship known, and there was a good reason why— he hated to have them find out he has someone he tolerated better than others.

Even if it was just a simple drunkard. Or two.

Point is, it happened. While Xiao was dealing with her friends asking him about his occupation, he caught wind of Ana getting involved and being harassed by one of the older men that are obviously wasted. She was trying to tell them to stop bothering her, but it seems they weren't paying much attention and even touched her in areas that can warrant sexual harassment.

“C'mon, pretty girl, why don't—”

“Move. She's my fiance.”

The drunkard looked over at Xiao, his eyes narrowed as he noticed that he was one of the clients he tattooed years ago. He scowled at the sorry state he was in— the man had a job as a republican, but one too many scandals led him jobless.

Hmph. I'm glad I managed to tattoo him with that before then.

“Yours? Pfft, do you have anything that makes her yours, little boy?”

Xiao scoffed.

“That ring she's wearing. I gave that to her.”

Complete and utter lie, he knows Ana had it since the day they met. Though, the ring was placed on her ring finger…

“You're harassing my girl. If you don't move, I'll get security,” he warned, walking closer to Ana to gently hold her hand. “And you wouldn't like getting kicked out again, would you?”

The ex-republican scoffed but he slunk away, and the two watched as the others jeered and called out to the republican figure for what he's done.

How annoying.

“I didn't know you'd say that out of all things.”

Xiao's head whipped towards Ana. It was clear from the way she said it that it was meant to be seen as light-hearted, but from the tense moment they had, he was struggling to process it.

…

He scoffed and let her hand go.

“He won't back out otherwise.”

And he knew he wouldn't. No one would.

“How many people have you tattooed with that mark?”

“I don't know.”

“Oh, but you do. People tell me that the victims went to you to get tattooed and died after a few days!”

“Sounds like a load of bullshit.”

Xiao isn't fond of dealing with people. He didn't even bother hiding that fact, since he disliked meaningless drivel with some of them. What he hates is when they become overconfident with knowing what he didn't.

It was a big deal to them, but to the artist, he found it more of a joke. An impractical, unfunny joke. He'd rather listen to one of his co workers explain it and ruin it than this.

“A load of— listen to me, sir,” he spat, jabbing at his chest. It would've been intimidating if Xiao didn't think it was a bit childish, “I work with the agency. We're trying to figure out what the hell is happening, and if you don't say shit, I'll tell them you're that famed serial killer going on the loose!”

…

“Seriously?”

Xiao sighed.

Such is the way of being an idiot, he thinks. It's no wonder I don't bother tattooing people on a walk-in appointment.

“Wh— are you doubting my credibility?!”

“Not when you're harassing me.”

Watching him get annoyed, he saw the man out, watching as a certain someone came to the shop. Seeing the man storm off, he watched Ana raise her eyebrow at Xiao; a silent question, it seems.

What happened? He can read from her expression. Though, this made Xiao sigh and turn his head to the shop.

Come inside. That is what he was trying to say by his body language.

And she did.

It wasn't long until the two were talking about the incident: Ana had to hear Xiao explain briefly of the accusations he's given, what he replied due to the lack of evidence, and the childish fit that the reporter had to leave.

Still, that looming threat was never something he can let go of, nor he can't stop pondering about. Maybe it's just him, but there have been moments when that came to light.

… Or nearly, anyway.

“I see… Well, they're definitely too nosy for their own good.”

“Mhm,” he answered, cleaning up the pen he used for tattooing. “Anyway, are you here for your appointment?”

“Oh! Yes, I am. I want you to tattoo my arm.”

Retrieving the paper detailing her tattoo, she handed it to him. Examining what it looks, he simply raised an eyebrow.

Granted, the tattoo is simplistic— he can make do with outlining the bird like it was a constellation. It wasn't something he would suck at. However, the bird she chose was a phoenix.

Interesting metaphor. Though, he's simply curious on what drove her to choose such an interesting thing to be on her arm.

“... Hm. Alright. I can do it.”

Placing it down, he began to prepare the tools and lead her to take a seat on the chair. Pulling on the lever, he adjusted it so that she was facing up and he pulled up the arm that she wanted it on.

It wasn't long until the soft thrumming of the tattoo gun echoed as he worked on the tattoo, following each and every step of the stencil down to its smallest details. Sure, Ana and him conversed while he worked, but he remained silent to focus on doing the tattoo.

Silence was a comfortable thing for him, and sometimes, he can see it be a comfortable thing for her, too.

It did take hours until he was done with the tattoo, and although he had half of his mind to add that mark, he added something else that’s tied to him. Right by the wing had 保护 written on it, each line and curve made as accurately as one could with writing a different language.

It was different from the ones he’d do. And he made sure to keep it that way.

“There. It’s done.”

He observed how Ana’s eyes would trail over at the tattoo, moving as she examined it in great detail. He was one of the best tattoo artists she could ever find, but he knew she saw that print on the wing, too.

It was just a relief that she didn’t bother to ask.

“Since it’s your first time getting a tattoo, you can have this,” he added, grabbing a bag full of supplies with an addition he left there for her. “It’ll help when your skin gets irritated with the ink. Others had that happen to them.”

“Really? Well, I’ll use them if that happens.”

“Good.”

His amber eyes flickered from the tattoo gun and towards the bag, catching the gleam of turquoise peeking from inside.

It was convenient that he placed that thing in her bag.

Now, he had an even bigger reason to do what he had to do to those that dare to mess with what’s his.

“I didn’t know you’d come back to stalk her,” the tattoo artist commented coldly, his heels digging into the wound on the reporter’s side. “I’m surprised. Seems like you have the audacity to try again to ‘frame’ me yourself.”

He hardly cared for the amount of blood he spilt. For the tattoo artist, having to make someone be worried in his shop was more than enough to gun for the culprit.

“Tell me. Were you going to abduct her?”

The reporter had the audacity to laugh at his face, the pain sending his mind to overdrive. Scowling, he dug in deeper, feeling his patience wear thin. He hated to delay what could hurt his lo— friend, he had to correct himself. He didn’t want those people to get to her.

“W-What’s it to you? I thought—”

“I’m not involved, but that’s my friend, you garbage.”

With another dig at the wound and his gun loaded, he aimed it at his other leg. He was already sure that she would wind herself in danger because of what he’s done, so he needed to be swift if he wanted to reach Ana.

He can’t risk losing her. Not to those bastards.

“I’ll ask again. Were you going to abduct her, you vile being?”

Much to his displeasure, the reporter laughed again. Although, he can tell that he wasn’t in the right mind. The expression he wore simply reminded him of those bitter memories he had hid all those years ago in his time at Enkanomiya, and he loathed to see it on another person.

Heaven knows what drove him like this, but he had done something immoral. He needed to do this in return.

…

Yes. He needs to. She’ll die if he doesn’t.

“... Hmph. I suppose you’re no talk and bite.”

Click. BANG.

…

Xiao could vaguely hear the gunshot ring as blood began to pour out onto the pavement, but this time, he felt no guilt for his actions. He knew it was bad, but he could hardly care about what’s on his mind.

Turning around, he grabbed his phone and contacted Ana’s number. He needed to be able to speak to her. He needed to.

…

It rang once.

It rang twice.

It rang far more than that. It continued to ring and ring, amping up Xiao’s worry the longer she didn’t take the call.

And after God knows how long, he heard it click.

“Xiao?”

… She’s fine.

“... Did I wake you up?” he asked her on the phone, his voice lowering its usual volume— possibly due to his relief. “I thought you’d be awake.”

“Mm… Almost, but yeah,” he heard her yawn. “I was… Looking for that guy. Then I fell asleep for, uh… an hour or something.”

…

“Has anyone entered the house?”

“... No. I’m fine. I had it locked, like you told me to.”

Good.

“Say, you sound panicked—”

“I’m fine,” he told her, cutting her off. With a sigh, he looked at the body, then at the phone. “Anyway, I’ll… Leave you alone for the night. I have a few things I need to take care of.”

He’d have to ‘clean’ things up. He can’t let her see it.

No one can ever see the crime he's done.

@.throw-letter-away | do not republish or repost my works anywhere | 2024

[lotus-lamps]

COMMISSIONS ARE OPEN! first three people get discounts :)

-> KOFI LINK <-

Discord user: cozmiccupcakes

PLEASE TAKE THE PRICES WITH A GRAIN OF SALT!!! even i'm starting to disagree with them now. it's mostly decided by complexity of character(s) and how detailed the artwork is. i will not strictly follow the chart i provided!

its my first time doing commissions, so sorry if i mess up a lil! i didn't plan on opening them until i got a larger following, but a pal said they were interested so i decided to put this up.

text ver. only plus a more detailed description under the cut! thank you!! (i may come off as a little cold and blunt in the rules section, sorry! i was just trying to keep it as concise as possible to save space. please do not feel scared of commissioning me!!)

p.s. if you want to, please reblog! :) thank you for the help!!

WILL DRAW: ✅

OC's (if they do not belong to you, please get permission first!)

Fanart (any type of media/fandom!)

Ship art (no proships. if it makes me uncomfortable i will turn it down. <- this usually just applies to overly toxic/questionable ships. i will draw ones that i simply don't really ship for you though!)

(and yes, ship art includes OC x OC and OC x canon!)

Light gore + Body horror (not too good at this one, but i can try!)

Animals + Furries (not too good at this one either, especially furries, but i will also try!!)

WON'T DRAW: ❌

NSFW + Nudity (i can draw things that contain mild sexual humor/references, but i wont draw anything past subtle suggestivity.)

Heavy gore + Body horror

Everything else is (most likely) fair game! I will warn you that I'm not particularly good at drawing furries or mecha, but I will give it a shot :) Detailed backgrounds are also allowed! Feel free to ask about whatever, I'm totally fine with drawing most things!

(i will not be making a text version of the prices estimate, as im starting to consider it inaccurate.)

PROCEDURE + RULES:

Dm me on Tumblr, Kofi, or Discord (cozmiccupcakes)

Please try to be fairly specific with your request! no need to get too detailed, but enough for me to work with. Please also provide references if you can! If not, moodboards and text description work too.

50% payment upfront (Kofi only, USD only.)

Prices are loose and negotiable!! as i said before, i no longer particularly agree with my pricing, so it won't strictly adhere to my chart. feel free to discuss prices with me!

No full refunds once I've started. If I haven't yet, I will refund the money to you. If you would like to cancel your commission once I've begun on the artwork, I will keep the 50% you paid initially, unless I am already close to finishing. In that case, you will have to pay the other 50% as well.

I will send progress updates, which is when you can request changes. I will only change things regarding that particular stage! For instance, if I'm on the coloring stage, you can ask for changes with color, but nothing before that. I will not make any changes to the lineart. You can ask for more progress updates if you'd like!

The commission will take around a week or so to finish, more if I have other commissions due before yours. I am also a student and have other things I need to do. Please be patient! I will let you know how many people are in line before you.

Please try to pay the other 50% within a week after I finish the artwork. You cannot commission me again if I do not receive full payment!! I will be flexible with when you send me the money, but know that if it takes far too long (more than 2-3 weeks) then you will no longer be able to commission me as well.

The art still belongs to me. Do not claim it as yours. Feel free to post it on your social media, but please still credit me regardless. Non commercial use only. You cannot use my art for any sort of profit. I will provide you with a non watermarked edition, but I will post it with a watermark. I will usually post the commission art I make, but feel free to tell me if you are uncomfortable with me doing so and I won't do it! I will usually also say who commissioned me, especially if it contains their oc's to give credit, but if you prefer to stay anonymous please let me know as well!

That's all!! I apologize for writing so much, I just wanted to make sure everything was clear :D Thank you!!

[psiirockin]

do you have any advice for opening commissions? i feel like you have them very professionally set up, and i have pretty bad social anxiety, so it might be helpful to hear tips for communicating with customers and such, or setting up a fair tos!

hi so, maybe i do have some advice!!! <33 thank you so so much for the kindness & seeing me as professional lol i’ve been doing comms for 2-3 years and i must say.. still getting the hang of a lot of things. you go through a lot of trial + error trying to figure out what works best for you, so remember theres no truly right way to go about comms! they should all fit the needs, pace, and benefit of you and your work ethic!

what i did personally is start off at some lower prices just to test the waters and get the ball rolling. i priced rendered characters at i think, $24 per character? possibly lower, i cant quite remember. and then i gradually went up as i started to progress in my art style more + had more people coming in.

with customers, i have a lot of anxiety as well! im autistic, so i never like making a customer feel like i dont truly care abt the commission by accidentally sounding too flat or anything. i tend to RLLY overthink it lol so we make sure we are extra talkative + kind about their comm! giving them compliments on the character, showing genuine excitement so they know theyre in good hands! (we love engaging esp when the customer seems VERY excited or enthusiastic abt the commission!)

a lot of irl turmoil tends to happen in our life which can make a comm delayed sometimes. could be severe mental health problems, just being busy w/ shit in general. its important to just keep your customers up to date, especially if its going to take a realllyyy long time or the customer likes frequent updates.

i used to be able to get shit done in like a night. but, with an actual line up/queue of comm work we progressively started taking longer and longer esp as we transitioned from a teenager starting out and into a busy adult with persistent mental health issues. (plus our art becomes more complex as time goes on, so that has to be taken into account) tbhs, depending on your availability and how much effort goes into your work, and as the demand grows, you need to charge accordingly and just be honest with your clientele.

as for TOS do what makes you comfortable! make your limits known and put your foot down when a request or any topic makes you uncomfortable. dont let your customers get inappropriate with you or try to make you feel bad if they dont wanna pay for what they ask for, etc. i also recommend requesting payment after sketch/half and half when starting out just so you can get some experience under your belt + assure future clients that youre professional n wont scam them! (if you plan on switching to payment upfront in the future)

just remember that u are not a machine, you are a human being making art for someone else. putting love n effort into your craft, time and effort. take your time getting the hang of comm stuff, things dont have to be perfect in your setup at first.

[thdramas2]

"Omg you're soo unprofessional! Why are you blocking people? Its meant to be a business!!"

its a little hobby actually, its why everything is priced cheap as hell. I can live without my hobby perfectly fine but you want me to be professional? Fine then i will act like a business

Prices raised to be competitive

No extensions for payment plans.i will either receive payment from you within the original agreed deadline or from whoever asks for it next.

If you cant pay upfront or by the deadline of the payment plan you can't get it, I'll refund whatever you've given me and sell it to the next person.

I will not make small talk, ill talk solely about the the things for sale and i will ignore everything else.

I will use a copy/paste message for any questions that have already been asked or a link to my faq. I will keep redirecting you to the faq if your question is in the faq.

No refunds once you receive the product, digital goods cannot arrive broken like a physical object. Not my fault if you lost interest or change your mind

No willingness to adjust or make changes. You DM'd me so you play by my rules and my prices. So bartering and trades are off the table

No shits given about political views or how people act, I'll accept money from anyone. Money = good.

Suddenly people don't want me acting like a business, wow who would have guessed? Businesses don't have morals, the only rules are "keep business going, make money, avoid legal issues" maybe try to appreciate the fact i have my own moral code besides just wanting money instead of complaining that i am blocking people I cannot feel comfortable conducting business with!

The only people i refuse to engage with are those who harass others and send death threats and doxx, i dont care why you're doing it. i cannot in good conscience interact with people who are proud of being vicious and hostile to anyone or surround themselves with those people (not just following but actively praising them, i won't block over a follow or some stupid bs like that)

/

[tiktaaliker]

its been a while!! im opening commissions, but this time its only for two specific types of commissions- experimental and character designs - full info under the cut!

experimental commissions will have funky backgrounds, lots of filters + texture effects, a visible sketch layer, weird poses, etc. Fullbodies in this style will also get a bonus transparent version without effects or background!

character design commissions will get you a fullbody with a basic color background. you can come to me with a simple prompt or a full concept- color palettes, moodboards, etc are all welcome, and i'll even do redesigns of existing characters!

some additional info- - for experimental commissions, please let me know if you want it for a phone/desktop background, icon, banner, etc. so i can size the canvas appropriately! otherwise i have a tendency to resize the canvas a lot as i go. - if you want the piece in the alternative style/high experimental, please let me know on commissioning! - for character designs, please tell me whether you want a simple or complex design on commissioning. - designs with dense/complex patterns, unusual body plans, multiple heads/lots of limbs, complex robotic/inorganic elements, and clothing are considered complex. If you aren't sure whether what you're looking for is simple or complex, feel free to ask! - I am currently ONLY taking commissions for anthro or feral designs. no humans this go around, sorry! - i am currently taking payment upfront through paypal only. however, i will also be willing to do art trades/mixed payments with mutuals! - i work full-time, so i can't work on art every day. i always send several WIPs throughout the process, but i cannot guarantee any specific turn around time. - I reserve the right to turn down any commission i don't feel comfortable with! - prices are a general estimate - actual quote may be more/less than what is listed here.

[heystephen]

Hi, I saw your post about your dog (I've been lurking here for Eras) and I feel the same way about my dog and have been through something kinda similar so I thought I may be able to provide some info. Feel free to totally ignore this! For me, when I'm in a panic bc something is wrong with my dog I really struggle thinking through dense information so I'd let you know what I've learned.

First, for the cost breakdown, there's the cost of the X-Ray and getting it interpreted. Both of those are defintely high, I know that price is pretty location dependent but have you called around to other vets? Many won't send out for a specialist unless its necessary but many will no matter what (less reputable practices doing the latter). I know you want the best care for your dog so I'd ask other vets even if they can't see you in time, would a specialist be necessary initially for a suspected blockage? I'd also question how long that would take (some are basically instant others can be hours). Secondly, the bloodwork. I'd ask are they doing that after the X-Ray? If the X-Ray shows a blockage is it all necessary? The basic CBC would be the most likely to still be needed, and some prefer to always do a Chem test with that to get the full picture. But the HW test is extremely unlikely, especially if your dog has been recently tested (like when you last got the prescription) and he's been on the heartworm medicine regularly. And the SDMA test - if its a blockage do they still need to test his kidneys? Lastly, the sedation (which I know has been discounted) but I'd ask if it was needed. X-Rays are quick and the techs should be experienced with behavioral conditions -its a questionable extra expense.

Finally, there are a lot of different options for financing if it turns out to be something expensive. Call different vets about this too. Chain vets like Banfield etc are going to be the most predatory so make sure to call lots of vet-owned practices. And don't be afraid of trying the "best vet in the best neighborhood" type of place, they often can work with people who can't pay upfront better bc they have the means versus practices who advertise that they can work with you on payment. And lastly, emergency clinics aren't all crazy expensive if your dog ends up needing emergency care and you can call several in advance and ask about prices.

I'll be keeping you and your dog in my thoughts and I hope everything works out okay! And I hope this has been useful to you

i really appreciate you taking the time to go through and share your thoughts and ideas about the whole thing.

as far as the cost of the X-ray, interpretation and the suggested blood test, i understand that that’s pretty standard for the area i live in. i called around a lot of clinics in my area and even like, miles outside of my town and asked how much they’d charge for the same things and not only were the costs similar or higher but a majority of them said they’d have to charge a fee as well for an initial exam as my dog isn’t a patient with them. his regular vet is amazing and so kind about working with clients who need payment plans or deals but he’s booked out until the new year and referred me to the clinic we’re going to tomorrow. unfortunately, the sedation is necessary. he’s very fearful and combative about exams and being handled by strangers.. thankfully, the chem cbc and sdma were more like secondary suggestions, should the X-rays not reveal anything so i guess i’ll cross that bridge if i get to it. but i’ll still be calling around to the last minute

im exploring my options, grants and funds and what not and exhausting every avenue i can. hopefully i find one! i did get in touch with a local group who said they may be able to help with his treatment once he’s diagnosed

thank you for your thoughts, it really means the world and it was very kind of you to offer them 💙

[lunas-otome-blog]

Luna's Review: Café Enchanté

Official Summary:

When Kotone inherits her grandfather’s Tokyo café, she discovers the shop holds more secrets than anyone could imagine.

The café is a meeting spot for beings from multiple, mystical worlds. You’ll meet the king of demons, a humanoid beast, a fallen angel, and more.

And when government agents monitoring non-human activities show up at your door, your new café is about to become a lot more colorful.

.

(Spoiler Free) Luna's Thoughts:

(Just as a reminder, I'm writing this for myself to keep track of my thoughts and leave a record of the games I've played. Others are welcome to read and feel free to provide your own thoughts, but please, no hate! They're just my opinions, nothing more.)

I was excited for this game. The premise sounded amazing: a cute cafe full of magical beings from other worlds? Sign me up! I love the colorful cast of characters, and the art is undoubtedly gorgeous.

But, while I enjoyed elements of this game, the setting falls apart almost immediately, and has very little to do with any of the routes, with the exception of the true end. The whole game is actually incredibly dark, complete with bloodshed and death in every route, which is normally not a bad thing, but it feels a bit misleading here.

You're told almost at once that the cafe is somehow sustained on payments from only a handful of romanceable characters, none of which use human currency or seem to have jobs that would involve payment, with the exception of the one human bachelor Rindo. This is nitpicky, I know, but I found it frustrating because it would have been so easy to write a way around this.

Let me be clear that I don't necessarily mind a game with a ridiculous premise. I love Mystic Messenger, and the entire game hinges on the fact that you have moved into a stranger's apartment and have somehow remotely taken on party planning for a charity group of people you haven't met. But the thing about Mystic Messenger is that the ridiculousness is upfront, right at the beginning, and once you get past it and accept the game for what it is, you can enjoy it.

This is not so with Cafe Enchante. There are many times in this game where just a little more thought could have made things make more sense. To me, the whole game was plagued with sloppy writing and baffling plot details that could have easily been avoided or explained in a different way — not to mention the litany of literal editing errors. It's also not translated very well in places — or maybe it is, and just written poorly in its original Japanese. Either way, it reads awkwardly a lot of the time

Overall, I was not impressed with this game. It just goes to show that pretty artwork and a fun initial premise do not necessarily make a good product.

Below are my thoughts on each route in the order I played them.

.

(SPOILERS BEGIN HERE)

Ignis Carbunculus Route

This is the route I got first, without trying. I actually did not want to get Ignis first, because I figured he was the tsundere character in this game, and I like to do those a bit later. He's actually not particularly tsundere at all, just hypermasculine and therefore not great at expressing emotions other than rage.

This is one of the darkest and, in my opinion, one of the laziest-written routes in the game. You're expected to believe that Ignis went on a rage, literally killed and ate many of his own people, including his family, forgot about it and then just continues on with his life, only to be conveniently reminded of his dark past at the right moment to advance the game. And the rest of his clan has been tolerating him because they're afraid of him, and for whatever reason, Ignis has never noticed everyone hates or fears him??

Ignis is also the only member of his species who can eat. The rest don't need to because they're born with all the calories they need for the rest of their lives apparently, meaning the beasts of the literal beast world don't kill each other for food, just sport. And oh, yeah, that's somehow also Ignis' fault.

I felt like this route could have been simplified in a way that made more sense. Instead, the writers had a vision and manipulated many small details to make the rest of the game work within that vision, resulting in a lot of strange decisions.

I'm aware this game isn't meant to be realistic, but Ignis' whole plotline seemed very contrived. It's like they had something written already but realized certain elements weren't congruent with other aspects of the game, so they just...manipulated elements of Ignis' route until it kind of fit.

Overall, I think Ignis' route was my least favorite. It felt the most rushed, the least polished, and assumed a lot of things conveniently went unnoticed for years in Ignis' life. There was just too much coincidence in this route for me.

.

(SPOILERS)

Il Fado de Rie Route

This was the second route I played, and overall my favorite route. It felt the most cohesive out of all the characters, and it was the longest aside from the true end.

That doesn't mean I don't have my gripes with it. My biggest one is that Il, who has apparently based his entire personality, including his name, on an otome game character, makes the baffling decision to tell Kotone about the game and literally recommend she try that character's route first, only to immediately regret it when he realizes she's going to notice something is off.

Like, I could understand it if the personalities were just similar, but he took the name, too. I cannot believe he would be so stupid as to forget the game that he stole his persona and name from and then just freely give away that information. What pisses me off so much is that Kotone could have so easily encountered this information on her own. Have her buy the game independently to surprise Il, and then discover the overlap herself. Why on earth would he just give her that information? It's lazy writing.

I did really enjoy how angels are basically human androids and god is a supercomputer. That was rad as hell and is a brilliant explanation for why angel magic is math based. I'd say this route has the best worldbuilding, including the gorgeous pretty-boy side characters.

I don't feel completely satisfied with how Il's route was resolved, as there's still some question to how much of his personality is his own, but ultimately it was the most solid route in the game. I didn't think I would like Il as I don't particularly enjoy his character archetype, but in the end I was pretty attached to him. His characterization in the true end route was adorable as well, and I adore his friendship with Misyr.

.

(SPOILERS)

Kaoru Rindo Route

Rindo was my second favorite route in the game. I think it's super funny that Kotone keeps talking about their age gap even though he's the second youngest character in the game at 42 years old.

His route is also (to my knowledge) the only route that lets you just straight up kill the person you're trying to romance, although it does dead end the game if you make the choice not to save him when you can.

The worst part of this route for me what the treatment of Rindo's sister, Shizuku. She doesn't get a proper sprite in her human form, so you have no idea what she looked like, and it makes it kind of hard to feel anything for her. I did like the utter horror of watching Mikado feed her with his blood with no explanation.

This is one of the darkest routes and the only one where a side character with a sprite actually dies. And when he does, you feel bad for him because he was just trying to protect the woman he loves.

It did feel a little predictable to have Rindo become non-human after oodles of conversations about whether or not humans and non-humans can have relationships. Honestly the game writers are cowards for not making Rindo look more extreme as a non-human. Make him a freak!!

I do appreciate that he remains non-human at the end, though. I feel like forcing him to become human again would have eliminated any of the growth he made during the route.

Personality-wise, Rindo is one of the cuter characters IMO. He's flirty but as soon as things get serious he backs off. Super adorable!

.

(SPOILERS)

Canus Espada Route

This route was...ok. Just ok.

Honestly, I was bored through most of it. I can't really say why. It just didn't appeal to me that much.

Right at the beginning it annoyed me by assigning a gender to Vennia. Like, he could have just been left nonbinary. It's canon in this game that fairies don't have genders anyway, so it would have been fine to continue using they/them pronouns. I guess otome games haven't gone that way yet but it would have been nice.

I did like Vennia's relationship with Titania, and in the end, when he betrays Kotone, it felt natural. You can't hate him because you know he just wants to protect his sister.

I thought maybe his headlessness would be plot relevant but on the contrary, we get literally no explanation for why he's headless and nobody else is. I get that they wanted to make him an interesting character, but we know his ancestor was not headless, so why is he? Aren't there other dullahans in Medio?

I do think it's hilarious that we don't ever get to see his face. The implication is that he does in fact have one, so I had predicted it would be revealed as part of his route, but they stuck to their guns and kept him headless throughout the entire route.

Idk why I wasn't impressed with this route. Worldbuilding-wise it was one of the more solid storylines. It just wasn't particularly shocking or interesting to me, so I didn't love it, but I suppose I didn't hate it either.

.

(SPOILERS)

Misyr Rex Route

This route was, quite frankly, absolutely ridiculous. This was the most obvious case of having an overall idea and not having the skills to execute it well.

So many things happened just because Misyr willed it to. For example, he gains magic powers and a semi-human form simply because he wanted to visit a four-year-old on earth? How does that even happen? This is already ignoring the fact that he transformed into an ash monster through forced evolution or whatever, which is already a stretch, mind you.

And if that's not ridiculous enough, we then get introduced to Noah, who is somehow an entire world. I actually found him to be more interesting of a character than Misyr, now that we know that Misyr's entire life consists of going to one cafe and doing nothing all day.

The most disappointing part of this route was Asmodeus, who was largely not relevant at all other than the initial shock of realizing Misyr wasn't the demon king. Why bother making such an annoying character for a brief gag? He could have been so much more but instead he's reduced to an unlikable flirt who kidnaps Kotone in order to provide an excuse for a cute CG, and then we barely see him ever again.

This whole route stinks of worldbuilding with no consideration for how certain elements would affect the rest of the world. You know how sometimes worlds in fictional programs (ie: Black Mirror) build their entire concepts around one aspect of society and don't bother fleshing out everything else? That's basically this whole route in a nutshell. It falls apart under the tiniest bit of scrutiny.

To top it off, the good ending of this route, and therefore the whole game, involves Kotone becoming the world herself, largely losing her human form, now cursed to live for eternity as a realm that turns people to ash????? Who decided this would be a satisfying ending for an otome game?

The one element I did like was the explanation for why non-humans look so much like humans. I think it's super cool that humans used to have superior technology and lost it and everything else grew from that. I like the biblical references as well.

Ultimately, though, this was a disappointing way to end the game for me.

[evelynmlewis]

The Boy in the Castle, Ch. 2

Chapter One

Chapter Two

“Let the record show that I was against this,” said Ilya, mostly to himself, as Madame Olga loaded her son Alexei into the back of the stagecoach.

 He was sitting on the driver’s board, behind the horses, out in the front. A nun lifted a large wooden chest into the carriage. That box would contain all of his passengers’ personal effects.

In the coach, shrouded by curtains and wooden doors of diamond-shaped lattice, sat the boy, with a cage full of eight white doves on his lap. Tight accommodations, but the birds would just have to make do.

Madame Olga’s coin had bought the stagecoach; the trip was too risky to rent one. He had plans to sell it for a little extra money if he could get it back over the border after the trip. They were in need of two horses to pull the thing, one of which was his own and the other of which had been provided by Olga.

As for the upfront payment… it was burning a hole in his pocket already. His purse jingled and he eventually decided just to stuff it under the seat. There was no point in making themselves more of a target for highwaymen than they already were.

The first leg of the journey was not difficult. They set off after supper, and made it to the border around nightfall, as had been Ilya’s intention, to avoid notice. They traveled on a back road. There was a swathe of farmland that cut across the two kingdom’s borders, with no marked boundaries save those of the farmers’ properties. The carriage bounced and rattled on the dirt path, and he winced. The vehicle was going to lose half its value on this journey alone.

He drew them around carefully by a roundabout way to get back on the main roads by dawn. If they looked to be traveling east to west, rather than north to south, they could disguise where they’d come from, and appear less suspicious. For now, it didn’t really matter that they were technically heading away from their destination.

In the late morning, they stopped at a Belovian inn near the border. When his passengers got out of the coach, the boy was rubbing his eyes, and Ilya could see that he had been asleep. The woman put her hand on his shoulder and steered him into the inn with her.

It was a small wooden building, painted white, with bright red cross-work in the current fashion. Within, there were few other guests. Those who were there evidently had little time to spare lingering downstairs.

The coach was stabled in the back, and Ilya worried about attracting attention with it, but there was no good alternative.

They slept in two rooms. In the early evening, Madame Olga paid the due, and they were off again. This time they were to travel for an extended period of time so as to get back on schedule. It would do no good to continue traveling at night.

During this stretch, Alexei slept in the back of the coach, but Ilya stayed awake at the reins. He didn’t know if Olga was awake or only resting—she could mind herself.

When the sun rose and the day came again, he was struck, not for the first time, by the natural beauty of Belova. The fields of golden wheat, the barley and the rye hadn’t been visible at night, but now they waved joyously in the sun.

           Later in the day, though, the landscape began to undergo an ominous change. Wide swathes of crops were blackened and burned. There were withered, stooped trees along the side of the road, and even the sky seemed darker. On the road they passed no one, except two entire wagons going the opposite direction, and the riders gave them wary glances.

When they finally got to the inn at which he had planned to stop for the night, they were all thoroughly exhausted.

The inn was completely deserted, and this time they were the only guests.

“Where are you coming from?” asked the innkeeper after they paid. Perhaps he suspected them of something, but he sounded mostly incredulous to see them.

“We’re traveling from Stosla to Rostek,” he said.

The innkeeper gave him a dry glance, likely suspecting that they were nobles trying to flee the country. It was all right to be suspicious, thought Ilya, as long as nobody suspected the truth.

He might as well get more information while he could. “When were they here?” he asked in a low voice.

“They?”

“You know.”

“The Vroek Coalition passed through here two days ago and moved towards the south.”

This was concerning to hear. When they got up to their rooms, he stopped Olga before they parted for the night. Alexei clung to her skirt.

“We need to talk.”

When she looked surprised by his announcement, he knew this conversation wasn’t going to be easy.

“Listen,” he said. “The Coalition being this far east wasn’t on my agenda. It’s going to be hard to travel through this territory without being noticed.”

“It was a possibility I was aware of,” said the woman.

“Well, it wasn’t a possibility I was aware of. And in case you haven’t noticed, I have a neck too.” Alexei stared on, wide-eyed, but Ilya paid him no mind.

“What are you going to do, then?” she asked him, placing a light hand on the boy’s shoulder. “Leave us?” Her eyes were challenging, unblinking.

On the other side of the hill, the marching men advanced. They crouched, with their backs to the rocks. The smell of gunpowder filled the air. Moonlight shone on their bayonets. He started to crawl.

“Ilya! Where are you going?”

He steadied himself on the doorknob. “What? No. I wouldn’t – I wouldn’t do that.”

It was almost like she knew. She didn’t know, he reminded himself. She didn’t.

“But,” he reiterated sharply, “we can’t continue on your preferred course. I can’t take you all the way to Stosla with the situation as it is.”

“We must make it to the capital,” the woman insisted predictably.

“I know, I know. But things are much too unstable around the capitol. You could wait—”

“No. Our mission is important. We must make haste.”

It was the first time she had openly mentioned a mission. He pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Fine. We will go further east, and circle around this lowland territory. We’ll travel near the mountains, until we come around toward the south side of the capital. Then I will deliver you to Lohova, which is only five miles from the capital. If you still want to go on from there, I’m sure you can figure it out,” he added with some distaste.

“This will make us late by many days,” said Olga.

“Nonetheless, it is the best I can do.”

Olga gave a curt nod, indicating that she was willing to accept the compromise.

Next Chapter

[shapoorjiproperties]

Your Guide to Financing Your Property Purchase in Dubai

Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and impressive skyline, making it a dream destination for many property investors. However, if you are unfamiliar with the options available for financing your property purchase in Dubai, you might end up getting stuck with a bad lending experience. With so many residential projects and real estate property developers in Dubai, it's important to research and compare before making any decisions.

In this guide, we will take you through the best practices to finance your property purchase in Dubai so that you can make an informed investment decision!

Financing options for property purchases in Dubai

When it comes to financing your property purchase in Dubai, several options are available. One of the most common methods is taking out a mortgage loan from a bank or financial institution. They offer various types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, and interest-only loans.

Another option for financing your property purchase is through developer's payment plans. This method allows buyers to pay for their property over an extended period with minimal upfront costs and no interest charges. However, it's important to note that not all developers offer this option, and the terms can vary significantly.

Investors may also consider using their existing assets or investments as collateral for a loan by applying for an equity release scheme. This option is ideal for those who already own a property in Dubai and are on the lookout for another one. Additionally, some investors prefer cash transactions if they have enough savings on hand, which allows them to negotiate for a better deal with the seller since they’re not dependent on financing options. 

Regardless of which financing option you decide on, it's crucial to do extensive research beforehand and compare rates offered by different lenders or developers. It's also advisable to consult with reputable real estate agents who can provide valuable insights into the market trends and best investment opportunities in Dubai!

Best Practices for Financing Your Property Purchase in Dubai

When it comes to financing your property purchase in Dubai, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some best practices that could help you secure the funding you need.

First and foremost, research and compare different financing options available from banks or financial institutions to get the best possible deal with the lowest interest rate. Don't settle for the first offer you receive - take time to shop around and compare your options.

Step 1: Research and Compare

Before making any big financial decision, it's crucial to do your research. When it comes to financing a property purchase in Dubai, this is no exception. Start by researching the different types of loans available from various lenders, including banks and mortgage brokers.

Once you have an understanding of the types of loans offered, compare interest rates and terms across multiple providers. Don't just settle for the first lender that crosses your path - take time to shop around and find the best option for you.

Another important factor to consider during this step is reputation. Look into reviews or ask friends who may have also financed their property purchases in Dubai about their experiences with specific lenders. 

Make sure to educate yourself on any fees associated with each type of loan as well as potential penalties for early repayment or missed payments. This knowledge will help you choose a lender that works best for your unique situation while avoiding costly surprises down the road.

Few property developers in Dubai, like Shapoorji Properties, help out the buyers in their loan process as well.

Step 2: Know Your Budget

Knowing your budget is a crucial step in financing your property purchase in Dubai. Before you start looking for your dream home or investment property, it's important to determine what you can afford.

Start by calculating your total monthly income and subtracting all of your regular expenses, such as rent, utilities, car payments, and food costs. This will give you an idea of how much money you have left over each month that could go toward mortgage payments.

It's also important to consider any additional costs associated with buying a property in Dubai, such as closing costs, DLD fees, other government fees, insurance fees, and maintenance fees. These expenses can add up quickly, so make sure they are factored into your overall budget.

If the numbers aren't adding up or if you find that you don't have enough money saved for a down payment on the type of property you want to buy, then it may be time to reassess your financial goals and make some adjustments.

Remember that getting pre-approved for a mortgage is not the same as knowing how much house you can afford. Understanding your budget before making big decisions can help ensure that you're making smart financial choices when purchasing real estate in Dubai.

Step 3: Check Your Credit Score

The better your credit score, the higher the chances of getting approved for a loan and availing yourself of more favourable terms. So before applying for a property loan in Dubai, checking your credit score is essential.

Your credit score is an indication of how responsible you are with money and how likely you are to repay debts on time. It takes into account factors like payment history, length of credit history, types of credit used, and amounts owed.

In Dubai, banks have their own unique way of calculating your credit score based on various parameters such as income levels or existing loans. Therefore it's important to obtain your report from the relevant authorities before applying for a loan.

If your current rating is below par due to previous unpaid debts or missed payments, don't worry! You can still improve it by paying off any outstanding balances and ensuring timely payments moving forward. With a good enough rating, you may even be eligible for lower interest rates, saving you thousands over the life of the mortgage!

Step 4: Frame out how to handle Unexpected Expenses

When it comes to financing your property purchase in Dubai, you need to ensure that you have a solid plan in place for handling unexpected expenses. Even with thorough research and budgeting, unforeseen costs can arise during the buying process or after moving into your new home.

One way to prepare for these unexpected expenses is by including a contingency fund as part of your overall budget. This buffer should be set aside specifically for emergencies such as repairs, replacements, or maintenance that might come up unexpectedly.

Another important consideration is understanding the terms of your mortgage or loan agreement. Be sure to review any clauses relating to late payments carefully or missed payment penalties so that you are aware of additional fees that may apply if something goes wrong financially.

It's also worth considering purchasing insurance coverage specifically designed for homeownership, such as property damage protection, liability insurance, and even title insurance which provides added peace of mind against potential legal issues down the line.

By taking proactive measures like creating a contingency fund and reviewing all contractual agreements and insurances available at hand, you’ll be much better equipped to handle any unexpected expenses that arise while financing your property purchase in Dubai.

Step 5: Get the Pre-Approval letter

Having pre-approved financing gives you an advantage when negotiating with sellers. It shows that you’re serious about buying a property and have the required finances to purchase the property. 

Whereas it also gives you an idea of how much you can spend on a property purchase. That not only narrows down your search but also speeds up the buying process once you find the right property.

Conclusion

By following these five steps, you can successfully finance your property purchase in Dubai. Remember to research and compare financing options, know your budget, check your credit score, frame out how to handle unexpected expenses, and get the pre-approval letter. It may seem like a lot of work upfront, but taking these necessary steps will not only make the financing process smoother but also help you find the best deal for your dream home or investment property.

So go ahead and start exploring residential projects in Dubai offered by various real estate developers in Dubai. With proper planning and guidance from experts, buying a property in Dubai is an achievable goal that offers great returns on investment while providing a luxurious lifestyle experience.

[neiljohnsblog]

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Vehicle at an Approved Used Car Dealership

Purchasing a car is a significant investment, and finding the right vehicle at an Approved Used Car Dealership in Llandudno ensures reliability, affordability, and peace of mind. Whether you are searching for a compact car for city driving, a spacious SUV for family trips, or a fuel-efficient hybrid, buying from an approved dealership provides several advantages over private sales.

In this guide, we will explore the benefits of purchasing from an Approved Used Car Dealership in Llandudno, what to look for in a vehicle, and how to make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Why Choose an Approved Used Car Dealership?

When looking for a used vehicle, you might come across various options, including private sellers and independent dealerships. However, purchasing from an Approved Used Car Dealership in Llandudno offers several benefits:

1. Quality Assurance

Approved dealerships follow strict quality standards. Each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive inspection, ensuring it meets safety and performance criteria before being sold. This gives you confidence in the car's reliability.

2. Warranty and After-Sales Support

Unlike private sales, approved dealerships offer warranties, often covering key components such as the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. This protection provides reassurance in case any issues arise after your purchase.

3. Verified Vehicle History

Approved dealerships provide detailed vehicle history reports, including past ownership, mileage verification, and accident records. This transparency helps buyers make informed decisions.

4. Financing Options

Many approved dealerships offer flexible financing plans, making it easier for buyers to spread the cost of their purchase over manageable monthly payments. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer not to make a large upfront payment.

5. Trade-In Opportunities

If you are looking to upgrade, many dealerships accept trade-ins, allowing you to put the value of your current car towards your new purchase, reducing the overall cost.

How to Find the Right Vehicle at an Approved Used Car Dealership

With so many options available, choosing the perfect car can be overwhelming. Here are several important steps to assist you.

1. Determine Your Budget

Setting a budget is crucial when purchasing a vehicle. Consider factors such as your monthly income, ongoing expenses, and potential financing options. This will help you narrow down your choices to cars that fit within your financial plan.

2. Identify Your Needs

Consider how you plan to use the vehicle. Do you need a compact car for daily commutes, a spacious SUV for family trips, or an eco-friendly hybrid for fuel efficiency? Identifying your specific requirements will help you select a car that aligns with your lifestyle.

3. Research Available Models

Once you have determined your needs, research different car models that match your criteria. Compare fuel efficiency, safety features, maintenance costs, and user reviews to make an informed decision.

4. Inspect the Vehicle

Before finalizing your purchase, thoroughly inspect the car. Look for any signs of wear and tear, check the mileage, and ensure all features are functioning correctly. It is advisable to take the car for a test drive to evaluate its performance.

5. Verify the Paperwork

Ensure that all necessary documents are in order, including the service history, MOT certificate, and warranty details. An Approved Used Car Dealership Llandudno should provide full documentation for transparency and assurance.

Making the Purchase

Once you have found the right car, negotiate the price if necessary. Approved dealerships may offer promotions, trade-in options, or flexible financing plans to make the purchase more affordable. Ensure that you understand the terms and conditions before signing the agreement.

After-Sales Support and Maintenance

Purchasing a vehicle is just the beginning. Maintaining your car properly will ensure its longevity and performance. Many approved dealerships provide after-sales support, including servicing packages, extended warranties, and repair services. Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tyre checks, and brake inspections will keep your car in top condition.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect vehicle at an Approved Used Car Dealership in Llandudno is a smart and secure way to invest in a reliable car. With quality assurance, warranty protection, verified history, and financing options, purchasing from an approved dealership offers numerous advantages over private sales. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently select a car that meets your needs and budget.

Whether you're upgrading your current vehicle or buying your first car, visiting an Approved Used Car Dealership in Llandudno ensures a smooth and trustworthy purchasing experience. Start your journey today and drive away with a high-quality used car that suits your lifestyle!

[deveostudio]

The World of Children’s Book Illustration: How to Find and Hire the Best Talent

Creating a children’s book is a magical journey, and the right children's book illustrator can bring your story to life in ways that captivate young readers. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a newcomer, understanding how to find a children’s book illustrator, the costs involved, and what to look for is crucial to ensuring your book resonates with its audience.

What Does a Children's Book Illustrator Do?

A children’s book illustrator specializes in crafting visuals that align with a story’s theme, tone, and audience. These professionals use their artistic skills to create compelling illustrations that complement the text and evoke emotions. From cover art to character designs and interior illustrations, a book illustrator for hire provides the visual framework that transforms your narrative into a work of art.

Children’s book illustrators also collaborate closely with authors to ensure the illustrations fit the story’s vision. Their expertise in color theory, composition, and child-friendly design ensures that each page is engaging and age-appropriate.

Why Hire a Children's Book Illustrator?

Choosing to hire a children’s book illustrator is an investment in your story’s success. Professional illustrators bring experience and creativity to the table, helping your book stand out in a crowded market. They understand the nuances of storytelling through visuals and can create illustrations that align perfectly with your target audience.

When you find a children’s book illustrator, you gain access to:

Professional expertise: High-quality illustrations that meet industry standards.

Tailored designs: Customized artwork that matches your story’s unique tone and style.

Publication-ready files: Formats optimized for platforms like Amazon, IngramSpark, and Barnes & Noble.

How to Find the Right Illustrator for Your Book

Finding the perfect book illustrator for hire involves careful research and consideration. Follow these steps to streamline the process:

Define Your Vision: Start by clarifying your book’s theme, audience, and artistic style. Consider whether you prefer whimsical, realistic, or abstract illustrations.

Explore Portfolios: Browse portfolios of children’s book illustrators to identify those whose styles resonate with your story. Platforms like Behance, Dribbble, and professional websites like deveostudio are excellent places to start.

Check Experience: Look for illustrators with experience in creating illustrations for children’s books. Seasoned professionals understand the intricacies of engaging young readers.

Set a Budget: Determine your budget for illustration services. Costs can vary widely, so having a clear financial plan helps narrow your options.

Request Samples: Before finalizing, ask for sample sketches or concepts based on your story to gauge the illustrator’s compatibility with your vision.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Children’s Book Illustrator?

The cost of hiring a children’s book illustrator varies depending on factors like experience, project scope, and complexity. On average:

Freelancers: $500 to $5,000 per project, depending on the number of illustrations.

Established Studios: $5,000 to $30,000 or more for comprehensive services, including editing and formatting.

It’s essential to discuss payment terms, including upfront deposits and final payments, to avoid misunderstandings.

The Process of Working with a Children's Book Illustrator

At deveostudio, the illustration process is collaborative and transparent, ensuring your vision takes center stage:

Initial Briefing: Discuss your story, characters, and artistic preferences.

Concept Development: Receive initial sketches and concepts for approval.

Detailed Sketching: Fine-tune designs based on feedback.

Rendering: Add colors, textures, and final details to bring the illustrations to life.

Feedback Loops: Collaborate on revisions to ensure the final product meets your expectations.

Final Delivery: Receive publication-ready files optimized for your chosen platforms.

Questions People Also Ask About Children’s Book Illustrators

How much do you pay an illustrator for a children’s book?

Illustrators typically charge between $500 and $5,000 for freelance projects, while established studios may charge $5,000 to $30,000 or more for comprehensive services.

How much are illustrators for children’s books?

Costs vary widely depending on the illustrator’s experience and the project’s complexity. Discussing your budget upfront helps find a suitable illustrator.

Who is a children’s book illustrator?

A children’s book illustrator is an artist specializing in creating visuals that complement stories written for young readers.

Who is the best children’s book illustrator?

The "best" illustrator depends on your project’s needs. Renowned illustrators like Eric Carle and Maurice Sendak are celebrated for their unique styles, but many emerging talents can also deliver exceptional results.

How much does it cost to hire a book illustrator?

The cost can range from $500 to $30,000, depending on the illustrator’s expertise, project scope, and services included.

How much does it cost for a book in Illustrator?

This depends on the number of illustrations, complexity, and whether additional services like formatting and editing are required.

How to hire an illustrator for a children’s book?

Follow these steps:

Define your vision and budget.

Explore portfolios online.

Request sample work.

Discuss payment terms and project timelines.

Can I hire an illustrator?

Absolutely! Platforms like deveostudio connect authors with talented children’s book illustrators who can bring stories to life.

Why Choose Deveo Studio for Your Illustration Needs?

At deveostudio, we specialize in creating captivating visuals that transform your children’s book into a masterpiece. With a team of experienced children’s book illustrators, editors, and designers, we handle every aspect of the creative process, from initial sketches to publication-ready files. Our commitment to quality and collaboration ensures your story’s heart shines through every illustration.

Whether you’re looking for a book illustrator for hire, need help navigating the publishing process, or want to find a children’s book illustrator who aligns with your vision, we’re here to help. Let’s bring your story to life and inspire young readers worldwide.

Ready to embark on this creative journey? Contact us today at deveostudio and let’s create something extraordinary together.

[thelistingteammiami]

Planning To Sell This Year? Don't Forget To Factor in These Closing Costs

If you're thinking about selling your home this year, you’ve probably been monitoring its value for a while so you can sell and still get a substantial profit. But before you start counting how much money you’ll make, don’t forget to factor in seller closing costs into the sale price. 

Let's take a closer look at closing costs and an overview of the fees that will be deducted from your overall profit.

“Closing costs” is a catchall term for the various fees and expenses you must pay upon closing or completing a real estate transaction. These can include various fees, expenses, and charges, which are split between the home's buyer and seller. These fees do not include realtor commissions.

The exact fees can vary depending on your location and the house’s cost. But in total, closing fees can add up to around 2 to 5 percent of the home’s sale price, according to Freddie Mac. Sellers usually take these costs out of their sale proceeds (unless you specifically ask to pay them separately), while buyers need to pay them upfront.

Transfer tax

Most states or local governments charge some form of transfer tax. According to Bankrate, a real estate transfer tax, also sometimes called a deed transfer tax or documentary stamp tax, is a one-time tax or fee imposed by a state or local jurisdiction upon the transfer of real property. In other words, it's a fee that you’ll pay when the title for the home passes from you to your buyer upon closing. The cost varies widely by location but is typically dependent on the home’s sale price. Also, take note that not every state has this tax.

Title-related fees

In most markets, it is the seller who pays for the owner’s title insurance, which protects against potential ownership issues. It’s a one-time payment that protects the future owner from the financial burden of sorting out title issues in court, whether they arise at closing or years down the road. Costs can vary from a few hundred dollars to $1,500 or more.

Attorney fees

In some states, home sellers are required to have a real estate attorney to help them with the transaction. The transaction cannot legally close without one. And even when it isn’t mandatory, many choose to hire one to ensure their interests are protected. This is especially true when dealing with complex transactions, distressed properties, or inherited homes. 

Since markets also vary, in some areas both the buyers and sellers have their attorneys, while in others, it’s common to have one settlement attorney for the real estate transaction. Their fees range significantly — anywhere from $150 to $350 per hour, or it could be a flat fee depending on what they do for you.

Escrow or settlement fees

Funds are usually held in escrow during the course of a real estate transaction, which means there will likely be fees owed to cover the services of the escrow company. This independent third party not only handles the money that’s being exchanged between the seller and buyer but also manages the signing and recording of the closing documents. As with other fees, the amount varies by state but can range from $300 to $700, or sometimes more. This can also include extra line items related to documentation (drafting, notarization, recordation) and money movement (wire transfers).

Prorated property taxes

One of the costs of homeownership is property taxes. And these must be up to date before you hand over the keys to the buyer. All states have some form of property tax, although the rate can vary widely. When you sell your house, you'll be responsible for prorated property taxes due up to the date of the sale, at which point the buyer will take over. Depending on your timing, you may have to pay money at closing to bring yourself up to date.

Mortgage payoff

If you still have a mortgage on the property you’re selling, which is common, the remainder of that loan will need to be paid off before the sale is finalized. In some cases, your lender may require you to pay a prepayment penalty for paying off your mortgage before the end of the term. To get an accurate picture of this closing cost, make sure to talk to your lender about what will be required to pay off the home loan.

HOA fees

Just like with property taxes, if you’re living in a community that is subject to a homeowner’s association, HOA fees will also need to be paid up-to-date as of closing day. Some HOAs also charge a transfer fee to transfer your property to the new owner. Best to check with your HOA’s rules and regulations so you won’t be surprised by any charges.

Seller concessions

In a buyer’s market or just to make the deal go through, it’s a common practice for a seller to offer to pay some of the buyer’s closing costs. This is also referred to as seller contribution or seller credit, which can help sweeten the deal and make your home more attractive to potential buyers. One of the most common seller concessions is agreeing to cover the cost of necessary repairs, especially after the home inspection. 

The total amount of seller concessions may be limited by the type of home loan the buyer is using. For example, loans backed by government agencies, such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), have their limits on seller concessions. If you’ve offered any seller concessions as part of your deal, expect that these funds are also due at closing.

Closing costs are so named because they are literally due when you close on the sale of your home. This is after you and the buyer meet with the closing agent, title company, and/or attorneys to disburse the funds and sign all necessary documents. All of the items we've covered above will be deducted from your proceeds on the sale so you won’t need to bring cash to your closing unless you specifically ask to pay for them separately or your property is underwater, which means you owe more on it than it's worth.

Unfortunately, though, you often won’t know how much your closing costs will be until roughly three business days before closing day. You will receive a closing statement or settlement statement, a document that includes an itemized list of closing fees. If you have a trusted and reliable agent working on your side, they may prepare a seller’s net sheet. This is an unofficial document that is an itemized breakdown of all of the closing costs, plus an estimate of the sum you will receive, or net after the final purchase contract is signed.

[pushpamgroup]

What is the best way to invest in real estate?

Investing in real estate can be a great way to build wealth, but the best approach depends on your goals, budget, and how much time you want to put into managing your investment. Here are some of the best ways to get started:

Buying Property: One of the most common ways to invest is by buying a home, apartment, or commercial property. You can either live in it, rent it out, or sell it later for a profit. This method offers long-term value, but it requires a large upfront payment and regular maintenance.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): If you want to invest in real estate without owning actual property, REITs are a great option. These companies let you invest in big property projects by buying shares. It's a low-cost way to get started, and you can sell your shares easily. However, the value of your investment can change over time.

Vacation Homes or Short-Term Rentals: If you’re looking for higher returns, you can invest in vacation homes and rent them out on sites like Airbnb. This can give you a good income, especially in tourist-friendly areas, but it also means more work, as you'll need to manage bookings and upkeep. Some developers in vacation spots offer assured rental income or zero maintenance for properties, making it an attractive option for investors who want passive income without the hassle.

Fix-and-Flip: This involves buying a fixer-upper, fixing it up, and selling it for a profit. It can give you quick returns if you know how to manage renovations, but it can also be risky if you're not careful.

Land Investment: Buying raw land in growing areas can be a long-term investment. Land often increases in value over time, but you won’t earn any immediate income from it unless you develop it.

Each investment type has its own benefits, so think about what fits your goals and budget. Do your research and plan wisely to get the best returns.

[jranimator]

No Fees, No Problem: Release Your Album on Apple Music for Free

Creating music is an artist's passion, but when it comes to releasing an album on major platforms like Apple Music, many believe it requires a significant financial investment. The good news is that this is no longer the case. Today, independent artists can release their album on Apple Music without paying fees, thanks to free music distribution platforms. By leveraging the right tools and strategies, you can share your music with a global audience without worrying about upfront costs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your music available on Apple Music for free.

Why Apple Music is a Must for Artists Apple Music has grown into one of the most influential streaming platforms in the world. With over 100 million subscribers, it offers artists an unmatched opportunity to connect with listeners globally. Here are a few reasons why Apple Music should be your top choice:

Global Reach: Your music becomes accessible to listeners from different countries, enhancing your chances of gaining an international fanbase.

High-Quality Audio: Apple Music offers lossless audio quality, ensuring your music sounds its best.

Robust Artist Tools: The platform provides artists with detailed analytics through "Apple Music for Artists," allowing you to understand your audience better.

Free Distribution Platforms: Your Gateway to Apple Music The key to releasing your album on Apple Music without paying fees is to partner with the right music distribution service. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Amuse

Amuse is a popular choice for independent artists. It offers a free plan that lets you distribute your music to Apple Music and other platforms. While it takes a small cut of royalties for the free tier, it’s a great starting point for artists on a budget.

2. RouteNote

RouteNote provides a freemium model, allowing you to release music for free in exchange for a 15% cut of your royalties. Alternatively, you can opt for their premium plan to keep 100% of your earnings.

3. Soundrop

Specializing in niche markets, Soundrop is perfect for artists who focus on collaborations, covers, or smaller projects. It’s entirely free, with no upfront costs.

4. Fresh Tunes

Fresh Tunes allows artists to upload music to Apple Music and other platforms without any upfront payment or commission fees, making it a unique option for musicians.

Step-by-Step Process to Release Your Album on Apple Music for Free

1. Prepare Your Music

Before you begin the distribution process, ensure that your album is polished and ready for release. Here’s what you need to do:

Master Your Tracks: Ensure your music is professionally mixed and mastered for streaming quality.

Organize Metadata: Include accurate track titles, artist name, and other details. Metadata errors can delay your release.

Create Album Artwork: Design a visually appealing cover that meets Apple Music’s guidelines.

2. Choose Your Distributor

Research the distribution platforms mentioned above and select one that aligns with your goals. Each has unique benefits, so choose based on your needs, such as speed, royalties, or additional features.

3. Submit Your Album

Once your distributor is selected:

Upload Tracks: Follow the platform’s instructions to upload your music files.

Add Metadata: Fill out all required information, including track names, album title, release date, and genre.

Attach Artwork: Ensure the cover art is formatted correctly.

4. Review and Release

Double-check all details before submitting your album for distribution. Once approved, your music will be live on Apple Music within days or weeks, depending on the platform.

Promoting Your Album After Release Releasing your album is only the first step. To maximize your reach, you’ll need an effective promotion strategy.

1. Build Your Online Presence

Strengthen your social media profiles on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Use them to announce your release and engage with your followers.

2. Leverage Playlists

Getting your tracks added to Apple Music playlists can significantly boost streams. Submit your music to independent playlist curators or use your distributor’s submission tools.

3. Engage Your Fans

Host live Q&A sessions or virtual listening parties.

Offer behind-the-scenes content about your album creation process.

Encourage fans to share your album on their social profiles.

4. Collaborate with Influencers

Partner with influencers in the music or entertainment space to promote your album. Their audience could help you gain new listeners.

Monetizing Your Music Without Fees Releasing your album for free doesn’t mean you can’t earn from it. Here are some ways to monetize your work:

Earn Streaming Royalties: Platforms like Apple Music pay royalties for every stream. With no upfront costs, all earnings become profit.

Sell Merchandise: Create branded merchandise like T-shirts or posters related to your album.

Offer Exclusive Content: Use platforms like Patreon to offer fans early access to new music or exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Common Mistakes to Avoid Even with free distribution, mistakes can hinder your album’s success. Avoid these pitfalls:

Poor Sound Quality: Ensure your tracks are professionally mixed and mastered.

Generic Cover Art: A unique, eye-catching cover can make your album stand out.

Ignoring Promotion: Even the best music needs promotion to reach its audience.

Why Releasing an Album for Free is a Game-Changer The ability to release your album on Apple Music without paying fees has leveled the playing field for artists. Independent musicians no longer need record labels or deep pockets to reach a global audience. This democratization of music distribution has empowered countless artists to take control of their careers, build loyal fanbases, and monetize their work without significant risks.

Conclusion Releasing your album on Apple Music for free is a straightforward process that can transform your music career. By leveraging free distribution platforms, crafting a compelling release strategy, and promoting your album effectively, you can share your artistry with the world without breaking the bank. Don’t let financial barriers hold you back—your music deserves to be heard by millions.

Related Articles:

For further reading, explore these related articles:

How to Release Your Album on Apple Music and Multiple Platforms

Release Your Album on Apple Music to Get Paid

Release Your Album on Apple Music to Get Exposure

Release Your Album on YouTube for Free

For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT Records Private Limited.