#depending on demand i shall supply

[shrinkrants]

Jason Hickel Describes Capitalism

The word capitalism tends to cause immediate confusion. For most people it calls to mind things like businesses, markets and trade: the ability of people to produce and sell things to one another. Who could possibly be against this? But in fact businesses, markets and trade existed for thousands of years before capitalism. Capitalism is a relatively recent system, having emerged in Western Europe only about 500 years ago.  If one was to point to the single most important defining feature of this particular economic system, it would be that it is fundamentally anti-democratic. 

Let me clarify what I mean. Yes, many of us live in electoral systems where we select political leaders from time to time.  We have something approximating political democracy, as corrupt and imperfect as it may be.  But when it comes to the economy, thesystem of production, not even the shallowest illusion of democracy enters. Production is controlled overwhelmingly by capital, meaning large corporations, the major financial firms, and the 1% who own the lion’s share of investable assets.  Capital determines what gets produced, how our labour and resources shall be used, and for whose benefit. And for capital, the purpose of production is not to meet people’s needs, or to achieve social progress.  The purpose is to maximize and accumulate profit – that is the overriding objective.

Capital seeks constantly increasing accumulation. To achieve this, it needs to cheapen the prices of inputs as much as possible (labour, land, energy, and materials), and maintain those prices at a low level. It also needs a constantly increasing supply of these inputs.  This process cannot go on for very long within a bounded national economy.  If you over-exploit your domestic working class, sooner or later you are going to face a revolution, or a crisis of overproduction. And if you over-exploit your domestic environment, eventually you will degrade the ecological base upon which all production relies.

To overcome these contradictions, capitalism always requires an “outside,” external to itself, where it can cheapen labor and nature with impunity and appropriate them on a vast scale; an outside where it can “externalize” social and ecological damages, where rebellions can be contained, and where it does not have to negotiate with local grievances or demands. This is where the colonies come in. From the origins of capitalism in the late 15th century, growth in the “core” of the world economy (Western Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan) has always depended on the mass appropriation of labor and resources from the “periphery” (Latin America, Asia and Africa). There was no lag between the rise of capitalism and the imperial project. Capitalism has always required an imperial arrangement.

This was obvious during the first several hundred years of capitalist history, which I detail in this book. European colonizers went about destroying self-sufficient industries in the periphery and forcibly re-organizing production to serve consumption and accumulation in the core. Historians have documented that extraordinary quantities of value were siphoned out of the periphery and into the core, subjecting the former to deprivation, misery, and mass mortality while furnishing the latter with unprecedented wealth.

-- Jason Hickel, in the new preface to The Divide.

[ict-reports]

Automatic Labelling Machines Market Size | Industry Growth, And Trends

the global Automatic Labelling Machines Market growth is a cornerstone of economic development, influencing the prosperity of nations and shaping the lives of individuals. research proides a diverse array of sectors, each with its unique characteristics and contributing in distinct ways to the overall economic landscape. The growth of Automatic Labelling Machines Market is driven by a multitude of factors, including technological advancements, shifts in consumer preferences, government policies, and the global economic climate.

An extensive overview of the global Automatic Labelling Machines Market Size is provided by the Growth, Share, Price, Trends, Report and Forecast 2027, which evaluates the market based on segments such as types, applications, structural designs, and major regions.

Request for Free Sample PDF - https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/101967

Automatic Labelling Machines Market Segmentated By:

By Type

Self-Adhesive/Pressure Sensitive

Shrink Sleeves

Glue Based

By Configuration

Stand Alone

Integrated

By Industry

Food & Beverage

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

Consumer Goods

Other (Automotive, etc.) 

The report examines the most recent market updates and their effects on the whole market. In addition, it analyzes price and demand indicators as well as market demand. Additionally, the report uses Porter's Five Forces and the SWOT models to track the market.

List of Top Key Players in Automatic Labelling Machines Market:

Krones AG (Bavaria, Germany)

Sidel (Tetra Lavel International S.A.) (Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

Sacmi Imola S. C. (Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

Herma (Baden-Württemberg, Germany)

Fuji Seal International Inc. (Kansai, Japan)

Marchesini Group S. P. A. (Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

I. M. A. Industria Macchine Automatiche S. P. A. (Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

KHS GmbH (Salzgitter AG Consolidation Group) (North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany)

Barry – Wehmiller Companies (Missouri, U.S.)

ProMach (Ohio, U.S.)

Novexx Solutions GmbH (Bavaria, Germany)

Accutek Packaging (California, U.S.)

Wuxi Sici Auto Co., Ltd. (Jiangsu, China)

Worldpack Automation Systems (Maharashtra, India)

Weber Marking Systems GmbH (Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany)

Kunshan Bojin Trading Co., Ltd. (Jiangsu, China)

CECLE Machine (Zhejiang, China)

PDC International Corp. (Connecticut, U.S.)

Newman Labelling Systems Ltd (London, England)

Quadrel (Ohio, U.S.)

The global Automatic Labelling Machines Market is divided up according to the type, application, country, company, etc. As they utilize the report as a potent resource, players, stakeholders, and other participants in the global Automatic Labelling Machines Market will be able to gain the upper hand. Sales, revenue, and forecasts by type, application, and region (country) are the main topics of the segmental analysis.

COVID-19 Impact on this Market:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected both short- and long-term trends in the Automatic Labelling Machines Market. Though the precise impacts might differ depending on the area and sector.the COVID-19 pandemic affected the Automatic Labelling Machines Market in a variety of ways, including supply chain disruptions, shifts in the demand for necessities, price fluctuations, and a renewed emphasis on supply chain sustainability and resilience. The Automatic Labelling Machines Market in the post-pandemic era will probably continue to be shaped by these changes' long-term effects.

The emergence of COVID-19 has brought the world to a standstill. We understand that this health crisis has brought an unprecedented impact on businesses across industries. However, this too shall pass. Rising support from governments and several companies can help in the fight against this highly contagious disease. There are some industries that are struggling and some are thriving. Overall, almost every sector is anticipated to be impacted by the pandemic.

We are making continuous efforts to help your business sustain and grow during COVID-19 pandemics. Based on our experience and expertise, we will offer you an impact analysis of coronavirus outbreaks across industries to help you prepare for the future.

Report Highlights:

A thorough rundown of Automatic Labelling Machines Market Size and the current developments influencing the sector, Provide information on past and anticipated growth rates.

Important elements supporting, limiting, challenging, and offering the market a chance.

Significant industry advancements and important insights.

Prominent entities operating within Automatic Labelling Machines Market Size.

Players' major tactics include launching new products to increase revenue generation, collaborating with other businesses, and others.

Some other market trends.

Regional Analysis for Automatic Labelling Machines Market:

North America (the USA and Canada)

Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia and Rest of Europe)

Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Australia, Southeast Asia and Rest of Asia Pacific)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico and Rest of Latin America)

The Automatic Labelling Machines Market Size research report provides a thorough evaluation of the sector. The report's estimates were developed based on well-established research philosophies and hypotheses.

[irwinspharmacy]

Late Night Pharmacies In South Dublin

As our consumption of alcohol continues to rise, a basic shift in the way Irish folks think about their leisure time could probably be conducive to a change in Irish attitudes to alcohol. The creation of late-night arts and tradition festivals in areas corresponding to theatre and food would present a possibility for Dublin’s residents to interact with a nighttime activity which does not have a concentrate on alcohol. The success of pop-up festivals throughout irwins pharmacy shandon street the city, corresponding to Eatyard in Rathmines, show that there's demand current in the metropolis for more artistic and urban dining experiences. That is to not say, however, that challenges do not present themselves to cities that try to increase their economic system in this means. More long-term challenges take the form of increasing infrastructure and offering cultural education.

I too have AF, and everyone is different, you can not take this kind of recommendation from these platforms in your case. This isn't normal, and i personally wouldn't go on for much more than a couple of hours earlier than calling 111. Moving forward, ask your physician for a more complete home plan for fee and/or rhythm control, as you don't want to should undergo this again. Stay properly hydrated, dont go working any marathons and attempt to relax with plenty of deep breathing.

All of our pharmacy workers are patient centered and have an excellent knowledge of the locality. We supply a free delivery service to patients in Cork and we are going to blister pack medication for patients if required. Visit us at our late night Cork metropolis irwins shandon street pharmacy and we shall be happy to assist and advise in any way we will. Fundamental to the success of this type of nightlife, however, is a dependable and well-established transport system.

You can take Viagra Connect up to 4 hours earlier than sexual exercise. Anyone in want of emergency medical assist should search the assist of an airport police officer or any member of the Dublin airport workers. The app permits the customer to order and obtain month-to-month prescriptions from the protection 24 hour pharmacy and comfort of their residence, while being totally supported by their native O’Sullivans Pharmacist, remotely or in individual. It is a family-owned and run company, that strives to ensure that the companies keep in tune with the wants of the individual buyer.

A 24 hour blood stress check requires you to wear a blood pressure monitor for 24 hours and takes blood pressure readings at common intervals all through the day and night. When your blood stress is raised for lengthy durations of time, your threat of heart assault, stroke and different complications will increase. This can even contribute to coronary heart failure, kidney failure and poor circulation in your legs. As a end result, it could be very important often monitor your blood strain ranges to forestall any harm to your blood vessels and reduce your risk of serious problems with out ever even knowing it. It is estimated that over 50% of adults aged over 45 in Ireland have high blood pressure.

Tallaght Cross Pharmacy is a late-night pharmacy primarily based in Tallaght Cross West, right beside the square Luas cease and proper subsequent to the GPs at Tallaght Cross and the TLC-DOC companies. My Guide Reykjavik is part of the worldwide My Guide Network of Online & Mobile journey guides. When you return to the pharmacy the subsequent day, the pharmacist will examine your outcomes. They may even 24 hour pharmacy cork reply any questions you have and offer you suggestions and advice on tips on how to handle your blood pressure. For times like these, Boots has many pharmacies situated in Ireland that keep open till late. We imagine most people in Ireland should be able to attain one when essential.

Suitable for many points including again and neck pain, sports activities injuries and any other stiffness or discomfort. Your on-line dietitian will assess your current food plan and health routines and create a tailor-made programme. The world-famous singer was speaking as he despatched a message of hope to those collaborating in Donegal’s Relay for Life occasion. Daniel O’Donnell has warned that individuals across Ireland have late night chemist to continue the struggle towards cancer as a end result of nobody knows when it will strike. When you’re ready to quit smoking, NiQuitin Patches come in three strengths that ship different ranges of therapeutic nicotine to supply 24-hour reduction from withdrawal symptoms. This time, the closest one was solely a few blocks from our place.

[reenajain]

How does IV skew vary across strike prices?

Implied volatility (IV) skew refers to the difference in implied volatility levels among different strike prices of options. IV skew can vary across strike prices, and its behavior is influenced by market dynamics and factors specific to the underlying asset. Generally, there are two common patterns observed in IV skew:

Normal Skew: In many cases, especially in equity markets, IV skew exhibits a normal skew pattern. As strike prices move closer to being in-the-money, the implied volatility tends to decrease. Conversely, as strike prices move further out of the money, the implied volatility tends to increase. This reflects the market's perception that there is a higher potential risk associated with downward price moves compared to upward price moves.

Reverse Skew: In certain scenarios, such as during market downturns or events with heightened uncertainty, IV skew may exhibit a reverse skew pattern. In this case, the implied volatility of out-of-the-money options is lower compared to in-the-money options. This can be attributed to increased demand for downside protection, driving up the prices and implied volatility of deep in-the-money put options.

It is important to note that IV skew is not always consistent across all strike prices and can vary depending on the specific market conditions, supply and demand dynamics, and the sentiment of market participants. Traders and investors analyze IV skew, the curvature and other characteristics to gain insights into market expectations and use it to inform their options trading strategies.

Refer this video which I am sending across, for your reference. This shall enable option traders understand the behaviour of prices and shape of the skew.

[hakesbros]

New Homes Albuquerque

Homes are designed with options, construction methods and supplies to help reduce energy utilization. Actual power prices and/or usage are dependent on a quantity of factors, together with utility price, power consumption, home orientation, and climate conditions. Active homebuilders in the space embody Pulte Homes, Twilight Homes, RayLee Homes, Abrazo Homes, and Tiara Homes contributing their experience and top quality customer support to the home buying course of. "Meritage is an awesome builder. I'm simply actually proud of them and the means in which they handled my customers." Use solar energy to power your personal home and cut back your dependence on the grid. Purchase solar on the lowest price of any nationwide provider with Tesla's value match guarantee and take management of your month-to-month electricity bill.

Any guarantee or warranty of any product included or installed is offered by the product manufacturer or installer and never the builder, and builder does not warrant any product or its installation. Features of the builder’s Smart Home are not an alternative alternative to home security system or monitoring company. See sales advisor for particulars regarding the builder’s Smart Home features and prices. Photograph is for illustrative purposes only and is not an precise illustration of any features or design of a particular homes or features provided. This materials shall not constitute a valid provide in any state the place prior registration is required or void by regulation. Albuquerque has 34 new home communities, with 556 homes obtainable for sale.

6 years in the past right now, Chris, Flash and I moved into our Darling Little Casa built with lots of love by our friend. I love her just as much today as I did when I joyful cried throughout certainly one of our weekly conferences again in 2015. Overall, I am very pleased with the work and would advocate LOWE-BO Homes to others due to your professional work. To my mind, Ted builds a particularly high quality home and stays on finances; a fact that retains frugal people pleased. Before we break ground, we'll have our pre-construction assembly to go over any questions you might have.

The home has 4 bedrooms, three bogs, and a 3-car garage. When shopping for a home in Albuquerque, consider the model new homes constructed by LGI Homes. Open-concept flooring plans within the area vary from three to five bedrooms, embody upgrades you want at no further price and are backed by our 10-year structural warranty. Visit a model right now to see the LGI difference for your self.

Jimmy Porter, owner and operator of Patriot Homes was a delight to work with. From the initial house design meeting to the post-occupancy 45-day walk-through, Ted Lowe and his staff attempt... BuzzBuzzHome is North America's largest repository of latest new home builders in albuquerque construction homes. Our comprehensive database is populated by our meticulous research and evaluation of public data.

We show you the rents and purchase prices upfront, so there are no surprises . When she was contemplating not opening the lot this year, Trujillo said that she obtained several Facebook messages from clients that convinced her to open. Despite the decreased provide, demand has not gone down at Mora Christmas Trees.

Home Builder Digest is a national on-line journal devoted to the residential housing trade. The journal celebrates the most effective home builders, remodelers, and architects throughout the nation and is a trusted supply for suggestions about construction professionals. We also supply consultation providers and constructing experience for current and future householders. Discover new homes situated close to Albuquerque transportation, colleges, buying, and entertainment venues with Centex Homes, one of many nation’s prime new home builders. Built energy effectivity and fashionable conveniences, our Savannah plan boasts a big open idea nice room with 9 ft ceilings, giant kitchen island, and plenty of area for entertaining and every day dwelling.

Provides a whole answer to your custom-building needs. Build your new home with Del Webb and get an experienced partner that will help you build the right home on your lively lifestyle. Organization comes straightforward with the closet shelving, clothing new homes albuquerque rods, and drawers within the Haven grasp closet. Seating on the kitchen island with overhead pendant lighting and access to the courtyard with the sliding glass door. Looking from the cafe to the kitchen and feel the openness of the primary living areas permitting straightforward circulate for entertaining.

Meanwhile, land worth tends to increase over time relying on several components including the place the home is situated and what facilities and homes are nearby. More desirable neighborhoods enable sellers to cost more; the mantra “location, location, location” has by no means been extra related. “We are excited to proceed our development in Belen, where the demand for homeownership stays very strong. We are offering brand-new flooring plans that have by no means been constructed earlier than and have been designed specifically for Jardin De Belen. Pulte/Del Webb/Centex/DiVosta/John Wieland Smart Home features are available for an additional price and could also be put in by a third party after your home buy.

Inside, top end and custom finishes abound - Anderson windows, diamond plaster walls, scored and stained concrete floors, wonderful beams and exquisite uncooked woodwork. True gourmet kitchen with custom tile and cabinetry, Wolf gas vary, glossy quartz counters, pot filler, Asko dishwasher, work island, & fabulous Butler's Pantry w/ bonus room best homes for sale in albuquerque nm for wine storage. You'll additionally love the fashionable casita with separate entrance, pretty and very pragmatic kitchenette, colorful customized tile work and door to another spacious non-public patio.

[softwater3452]

Kinetico Premier Series ®

Others also appreciated the twin tank feature and the need for no electrical energy, one thing competing brands couldn’t offer. Founded in 1970, the model, since then, has turn out to be a global company of impartial water consultants, providing quite a lot of water softener choices. What about water softening methods that don’t use salt, however? Tackles simple hard water issues with a non-electric resolution – Essential softeners feed off water energy, not electric. Essential softeners don't bother with computer systems and due to this fact do not induce complications.

This is an indication of onerous water which might also affect the taste. If you've a private water supply, the safety of your water depends on whether it comes in contact with natural or man-made contaminants. One of the various benefits of Kinetico is that our approach returns your water to its pristine state, so you realize it’s all the time right and prepared for your family to take pleasure in.

Kinetico’s Director of Marketinghas noted that the powerline series has been incredibly profitable in filtering previously-untreatable water. Perhaps that’s why this water softener is among the many top-rated Kinetico merchandise thus far. Another single tank non-electric version and thought of to be an financial kinetico premier series solution for houses with onerous water problems. Non-electric single tank option, recognized to be easy and compact and some of the cost-efficient options obtainable by the company.

Kinetico doesn’t really give up-front costs, and that’s a dealbreaker for lots of people. After all, you don’t pull up to a car dealership and simply trust no matter kinetico premier series quantity the salesmen give you, do you? (If you do, a minimum of you don’t should, such as you do with Kinetico’s systems).

The Kinetico representative may also check if the type of water softener you need is the right one on your wants. It is possible to buy real components instantly from the corporate. But the thing kinetico premier series is I can’t really find a specific page devoted to Kinetico water softener elements on their website. Kinetico merchandise are dear as a end result of their products are proprietary.

We additionally generate models depending on demand to reinforce the systems’ lifespans for long-lasting performance and efficacy. Kinetico Signature Series® High-quality softening resin and beneficiant system capacity mean your water issues shall be history with a Kinetico Signature Series softener. And so will any hassles or inconveniences you might have experienced with different water softeners. The S650 XP offers extra gentle water from every bag of salt than another water softener you ought to purchase. Some manufacturers may declare to have probably the most efficient water softener, but Kinetico has the data to show it. In addition, Kinetico water softeners clean themselves using gentle water.

Water softeners can come with some reverse osmosis features. Customers have reported points with the filter membrane and with the quality of ice produced by the ice makers. The idea of getting an iron filter in your water softener sounds nice, however some prospects have discovered that the integrated filter doesn’t work properly. A widespread complaint is that water nonetheless tastes and smells of iron. Customers who name Kinetico to complain report being informed to purchase a different filter. Lack of electrical energy — The Kinetico water softeners that don’t use electricity are inexpensive to run and preserve.

Kinetico water softeners are brilliantly designed to work with low maintenance and a long service life. Your water-using home equipment like dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters and extra will work higher and last longer when used with soft water. Your soaps, physique washes and shampoos will lather higher and last longer in soft water. During your free analysis, a Kinetico water specialist will assess your water provide and share any findings with you. Together with your specialist, you'll evaluation your residential water treatment options and decide the most effective and cost-efficient resolution in your residence.

[sagen101]

Generator Technician Salary In South Africa

Increasing electricity tariffs, over consumption penalties and unscheduled power outages can negatively affect the profits of any business that haven't any backup power solution in place. Generator Works supplies effective energy management solutions to the personal ,public and commercial sector, each regionally and internationally. Our engines and mills are for sale to the mining, building, telecommunications, agricultural, manufacturing, municipal, industrial generator sa and residential property development sectors. From open set turbines, to canopy set gensets, and diesel mills for prime or backup energy, the entire choices we have out there are proven, dependable and well-established generator engine brands. We provide quality diesel mills with glorious after sales service.

Reliable, sturdy & dependable gensets backed by Smith Power Equipment. Our aim is to decrease working and ownership prices while keeping to environmental standards. Smith Power Generators has identified the best fashions for the South African consumer and small to medium enterprises, with a variety of generators for residence and business use. We also do larger customized builds in South Africa to move on the cost good thing about constructing and spec’ing regionally. Our team of expert engineers and technicians can be found to service and restore every generator on a planned as well as reactive basis. We have a variety of generator elements out there for buy to maintain your generator and be sure that it operates at its finest.

In this part, the examine will observe start-ups, the dot.com sector and digital platforms which would possibly be working with companies greater than ever before. Make your favourite rooms come alive with aesthetically pleasing accent lights that draw consideration to your favourite trophies and treasures. It seems like solar panels are popping up in all places you look, but generator sa why is everybody investing in solar? Never gas a generator while it’s operational or when it’s sizzling to get rid of fireplace explosions. Section 39 further states that turbines must be installed on the shoppers property. Therefore, mustn't exceed building strains or be seen from the street and adjoining properties.

The query to the supplier of the generator is fairly easy can you join the generator to the electrical set up yes or no ... All turbines connected VOV format ought to be clearly recognized with a discover on the unit. In many international locations competition between power turbines has been encouraged to drive down costs. Transmission, being a pure monopoly, stays just that; however like toll roads they are open to all who obey the “road rules” and pay the toll. All energy era is tied into Eskom’s nationwide transmission grid that moves electrical energy from era stations to demand areas. If you want to use the transmission grid you want Eskom’s permission.

This contains imports and exports whether or not or not it's for components needed for the manufacturing of mills, supplying of UPS / batteries or supplying of quite a lot of renewable power products. Loadshedding impacts mobile operator companies too, which is why some users may discover points with their sign and mobile providers. When the backup batteries for cell towers deplete, clients could expertise connectivity points. A research by the Centre for Science and Environment within the city of Gurugram, India, found that the use of diesel mills elevated air pollution in residential areas by greater than 30%.

At a distance of 7 to eight meters, the maximum noise degree should not exceed 55dB. Should the generator fail to fulfill these necessities, it shall be removed from the site. I don't like working and waiting as a lot as 6 months for fee. Besides, insurance coverage corporations have caught onto generator connected incorrectly. I use the analergy of " the seat belt" with my customers and their Grip/Honda/whichever generator. But, as an electrician, I can't recommend doing it to prospects.

This excludes cases the place a property has been subdivided, thus, each sub-division could have an set up. It's also simpler utilizing the lamps than a multimeter to clarify to the prospective client why it is not going to work. I know of one person who wasn't paid out due to this. Small electrical fire - board went into soften down, nothing major. Decent clients will appreciate your proffesional opinion and clarification of why its unhealthy concept, crap customers will get someone else to do it and thats all good with me.

PCs and digital gear don’t use much power but are extra voltage delicate. If a generator doesn't ship a relentless voltage and there are dips and spikes within the system, such sensitive equipment is extra prone to undergo harm. All of our products have been examined and put by way of their paces to have the ability to ensure we only present high efficiency and environment friendly tools. Has achieved a superior combination of full-load performance, gasoline economic system, emissions performance, and combustion noise with the manufacture of its diesel engines.

With years of experience in all features of mills, the ELEGEN team of technicians offer skilled recommendation and steerage on any of our mills. We have a Level 4 BBBEE Certification and 81% black ownership. We have turbines on the market or rent and provide Mines, Refineries, Manufacturing Plants, Factories, Shopping Malls, Construction Sites, Schools, and so forth. all through South Africa & Africa. Yes, our silent mills all embrace silent canopies and computerized transfer switches .

Only renowned manufacturers is utilized in our merchandise, to ensure components availability and quality. Businesses looking to partner with MTN, within the supply of mills generator sa, are invited to contact MTN on For generator specifics, see ‘Notes to Editor’. MTN says that businesses which have generators can turn into potential suppliers to the company.

[heckdragon]

also oh hey this blog exists

i literally forgot the URL and had to ask around

i’m finally getting back into HC after a long pandemic of not being into it anymore cause of Reasons

in fact i p much left tumblr entirely lol uh who wants content raise ur hand

[daitranscripts]

Leliana Cutscene: From the Ashes

I’m Sorry

Leliana Masterpost Related Quest: In Your Heart Shall Burn

Leliana and Cullen are in the aviary.

Leliana: I’m sorry.

Cullen: So am I.

The PC approaches and Cullen leaves

Choice dependent dialogue:

Spoken to at Haven [1]

Not spoken to before Skyhold [2]

1 - Spoken to at Haven:

Leliana: The names of those we lost. [6]

2 - Not spoken to before Skyhold:

Leliana: Inquisitor. I was not expecting a visit. You had little interest in speaking to me privately before. But, as dear Josephine says, it’s never too late to make a friend.

Dialogue options:

General: Was I interrupting? [3]

General: Friends are in short supply. [4]

General: Why was Cullen here? [5]

3 - General: Was I interrupting? PC: I hope I’m not disrupting anything. Leliana: The commander was just delivering… the names of those we lost at Haven. [6]

4 - General: Friends are in short supply. PC: Right, especially since we lost so many at Haven. Leliana: You noticed my exchange with the commander. [6]

5 - General: Why was Cullen here? PC: What was all that about? Leliana: The commander was just delivering… the names of those we lost at Haven. [6]

6 - End choice dependent dialogue.

Leliana: You must blame me for this.

Dialogue options:

General: I blame Corypheus. [7]

General: Now that you mention it. [8]

General: It was your fault. [9]

7 - General: I blame Corypheus. PC: We all saw who attacked us. We know exactly who to blame. [10]

8 - General: Now that you mention it. PC: I wasn’t going to bring it up, but why didn’t you see that attack coming? Leliana: I didn’t know what I was looking for. The red templars are like nothing I’ve seen, and the Venatori hide their tracks well. [10]

9 - General: It was your fault. PC: Those death are on your hands. It was your job to watch, to prepare us. Leliana: Yes, it was my fault. But how was I to know what we really faced? The red templars are like nothing I’ve seen, and the Venatori hide their tracks well. [10]

10 - Scene continues.

Leliana walks to the window.

Leliana: I keep wondering if I could’ve done something different. When the first of my lookouts went missing, I pulled the rest back, awaiting more information. If they’d stayed in the field, they could’ve bought us more time.

Leliana sighs.

Leliana: I was afraid to lose my agents, and instead we lost Haven.

Dialogue options:

General: You care for your men. [11]

General: Or we could’ve lost both. [12]

General: Learn from this. [13]

11 - General: You care for your men. PC: You look out for your people. That’s a good thing. Leliana: Is it? [14]

12 - General: Or we could’ve lost both. PC: More likely, they would’ve stayed out there, died, and we would’ve lost Haven anyway. Leliana: You don’t know that. Their lives could’ve bought Haven a small chance. [14]

13 - General: Learn from this. PC: You will be prepared next time. Leliana: I won’t let this happen again. [14]

14 - Scene continues.

Leliana: My people know their duty. They know the risks. They understand that the Inquisition may call upon them to give their lives.

Dialogue options:

General: They’re soldiers. [15]

General: Our men are not disposable. [16] + Soften Leliana

15 - General: They’re soldiers. PC: True. They’re our soldiers. They’ll do what we need them to. Leliana: If Corypheus is cold, I must be colder. War demands sacrifices of us all. [17]

16 - General: Our men are not disposable. PC: Our people aren’t tools to be used and discarded. Your instincts were right. Their lives matter. Leliana: Can we afford such sentimentality? What if Corypheus— PC: We are better than Corypheus. [17]

17 - Scene ends.

[glassartpeasants]

Milk

Overhaul x F!Reader

Warnings: Non-con/dubcon (overhaul), overstimulation, light bondage, dom reader, reader milking overhaul, Overhauls in taurus, handjobs, slight blowjobs

A/N: I have no regrets in making this. This is the peak of my existence. I would like to thank god and my love for frosted sugar cookies from walmart.

@zuffer-weird-girl @hello-lucky-luka i shall warn you both that this is extremely smutty and I have absoultely no regrets in making this. This was way longer then I expected it to be soo....

~~~

“Who the hell are you? Another guard to tease me?” Overhaul said with venom as you walked into his room. His eyes sent glares your way but also with confusion. Its usually only males that come in here. Disgusting ones at that. Quirk filled and sick.

“Oh no, they just hired me. Now I’m gonna need you to cooperate with me, its either that or the hard way, and im sure you dont want that right?” You smirk as you bring in your supplies. Ropes, a gag, a blind fold and a chair.

“What the hell? What are you doing. Leave me alone at once. Do you know who I am?” He spat. He felt his anger rise as he saw you place your little ‘equipment’ near his bed. He tried to scoot back away from you only for you to grab his foot and jerk him near you.

“I’m gonna give you another chance, you either sit in that chair willingly and let me tie you up, or, I pour dirt on you. Your choice.” You glared at him right back. You were trying to be nice, give him at least a chance but you saw why they told you they would pay good money to do this. 

Your job is difficult to describe but what made them hire you was that your quirkless. It was the least they could do for him. Have a quirkless girl mess with him until he was a shivering and whiny mess.

Funny thing is, after your appointment with this gem you also have to go to a few different places. You’ll talk about that later. But for the time being, you had to figure out a way to get this man on the chair.

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Oh I would. Be at least grateful that im quirkless. They could have sent someone with quirks.” You say hoping it was enough to get him to shut up. 

“...fine.”

“Pefect!” You smile as he turned around and got up off the bed. You dragged him by his shirt and plopped him on the chair. His face never changing his glare. You roll your eyes as you quickly tie him up, making sure that no matter how hard he tried he wouldn’t be able to move a inch. He tried struggling but that only made you tighten the ropes.

“What the fuck is this for?” He snarled at you. Hate oozing from his pores. How dare you touch him with your hands? Do you have any idea how many bacteria you hand could have?!

His skin started to break out in hives. You saw from the corner of your eye. as you rolled your eyes. Jeez you knew he was a germophobe but holy shit man.

“Calm your tits Chisaki, i took to showers and washed my hand 3 times. I think your can manage.” You snap at him. Once your finished with tying him to the chair you grab you blindfold and pin it around his eyes. You snicker when you here him mumble curse words at you.

“I demand you take this off at once!” He said jerking his head trying to get it to fly off. His fingers were curled into a fist out of anger as he felt helpless. He couldn’t see where you are or what you were doing.

“Nah.” You giggle in his left ear before taking it between your teeth and giving it a nice tug. Your hands go up his back and over his shoulders and down his chest as you kept on tugging and nibbling on Chisaki’s ear.

Your fingers tapping on his chest as you moved your hands near the end of his shirt. You made extra sure your hands where cold so that you could see him shiver. You lift his shirt up before pushing your hands up, letting your cold fingers touch his nipples making him let out a gasp.

“Aw does pretty boy like that?” You laugh in his ear as you move your fingers to grab his nipples. Pinching and twisting him while you kiss his neck, giving it a few kisses and some harsh sucks.

“You better stop this instant!” He yelled at you before letting out a yelp once he felt you sink you teeth into his neck. He could feel you using your tongue licking away the blood that had surface. Your fingers finally left his nipples alone after tweaking them raw.

You moved your body so you were on your knees in front of his crouch. You were so lost in your thought on what to do next that you almost didn’t notice the way Chisaki was panting. Your lips curved into a smirk before running your hand up his thigh watching him tense up.

“What the hell are you doing?!” He screeched at you. You only ignored his ranting as you move your hand to be above his crotch slightly pushing down on his dick. He jumped at the pressure before struggling trying to get out of his cage. 

You smirked wickedly before you started rubbing him in a fast pace. You held the outline of his dick and moved your hand up and down, giving it a few good squeezes here and there. 

You finally grab the zipper of his pants and pull it down letting you get a good sight of his boxers and his semi hard cock. You move your face closer to it before putting your lips on the fabric that covered his dick and let out a few puffs of hot air. Which in return gave you the feeling of his cock twitch and throb. You couldn’t tell if he was trying to buck his hips up or not, nor did you care. It was therapeutic to see what use to be a powerful man, now reduced to nothing but getting teased and now getting his cock milked dry until hes a crying overstimulated mess.

Your fingers tug at the waist band of his boxers before sliding it down so Chisaki’s dick had popped out. The cold air hitting his dick making him shiver. He moved his head to try and look down at you but the blindfold made it impossible.

You grab his cock and took a good look at it. Tbh you figured it would be small cause you know the saying, big egos tiny dicks, well Chisaki didn’t fit that description. He had to be at least 7-8 inches. Damn and to think you were gonna tease him.

“Wow, never thought you of all people would have such a big package. And all for me? Your too kind.” You laugh at him as you saw his face go beet red. Your soft hands slowly grabbed his cock, your nails skimming the underside before bringing his cock head to your mouth.

You let out a few beginning licks before taking his whole cock head in your mouth, making him let out a squeak. You started sucking harshly and running your tongue over his slit while both your hands were working on jacking the rest of his cock off, and the other massaging his balls. You looked up at him and you felt a sense of pride was over you as you saw Chisaki huffing and moving his head back. Noticing his toes where curling and his knuckles turning white. 

“You-you better s-stop, I-ahhh- You don’t know h-how many germs a-are in peoples mouths?” He was stuttering over his words as your harsh sucking was taking every rational thought out of his mind. It felt so good-no! He can’t just give up so easily! He needs to -FUCK!

While Chisaki was having his internal conversation, You finally enveloped his entire cock in your mouth, making him let out a loud groan. You moved your head fast while sucking him like your life depended on it. Your tongue wrapping around his cock while it disappears and reappears inside your mouth. Your fingers are massaging his balls causing him to twitch inside your mouth. He cries out in pleasure. This feeling is all foreign to him. He’s never had any sexual intimacy due to always on the job and seeing any sexual acts as disgusting.

You pull his dick out of your mouth making it let out a pop sound. If you weren’t listening closely to the sounds he was making you would have missed the little whimper that erupted from his throat.

You move your hand slowly at first, making your saliva and his precum as makeshift lube. his cock twitched in your hands, begging to have some more friction, which you gave you quickly gave.

You hand started pumping his cock furiously while laying your head on his thigh. You smirked as you watch the once feared Yakuza boss crumble under the feeling of your hand pumping his cock.

Chisaki flipped his head back and let out moans of ecstasy, His entire being shaking by the feeling of you pumping his cock so fast. He could feel the line in his belly about to snap as his eyes rolled in the back of his head. Oh god he couldn’t get this feeling out of his head. It only worsened when he felt your lips sucking on his sensitive balls.

He couldn’t handle this intense pleasure anymore before the line in his belly snapped and his cock spurted out ropes of cum everywhere. He let out a whine while he was coming down from his high.

His whines and pants were music to your ears as you stopped your hand movements and licked his cum off his hand. Considering he ate healthy his cum was not sweet but not salty either so you could thank him for that. Its thick consistency made you struggle to swallow all of it but you managed.

“Now since we finished that, on to the man show!” Chisaki’s eyes widen before he heard a low humming noise. Right as he was about to say something a vibration was sent along his shaft before reaching the base. He let out a little moan before the blinding light of his prison cell was stinging his eyes. 

“Aw look at you. All red face and panting, all because of little old me?” You giggle before you begun to take off your clothes. Your shirt and pants where the first thing to go before you grabbed Chisaki’s face and made him watch your take off your bra and panties, leaving you naked.

You walked towards him and moved your legs to where you were hovering over his cock as you straddled him. You moved your hips to where you were slightly stroking him but not giving him the friction he and you wanted. Chisaki’s mind was to occupied by the vibrating cock ring and your pussy  to notice that he was in fact drooling. He was so sensitive since it was all new to him that when you actually put his cock inside you he came again.

“Aw so sensitive aren’t we?” You slowly begin to move up and down while grabbing your gag and placing it in Chisaki’s mouth making more drool appear. You roll your hips and bit your lip as the cock ring you put on Chisaki was also sending vibration to your clit making your shiver and moan to.

You started to move up and down quickly as you put your hands on his shoulder and dig your nails into it. Your mouth goes down to his neck and you started whispering dirty things into his ear.

“Look at you, who knew one of Japans s-ranked criminals would be losing their mind to pleasure by a quirkless girl.” You whisper in his ear while the only answer you got was a low groan along with a sight of a few tears streaking down Chisaki’s face.

“Its such a shame that such a pretty face like yours has to be hidden from the public eye. So strong and muscular Chisaki..or should I say Overhaul?” You smirk when you felt his cock twitch while you said it. 

“Oh you like me calling you Overhaul? Why does it still give you a sense of power? Oh sweetie in here, I’m the one who has the power.” You laugh at him before speeding up your hips as you watched him throw his head back farther and more drool escaping his mouth. You laugh as you take out the gag and throw it to an unknown corner of the room. You grab his face before grabbing his bottom lip between your teeth, giving it a good tug.

Fuck it Chisaki couldn’t care anymore. You were so warm and tight. It felt like you were squeezing the cum out of him. Once you started tugging on his bottom lip he couldn’t help but kiss back. Your lips were so soft. So kissable.

He was so close please just let him cum. He didn’t know how much longer he could last in your tight walls. His eyes were fluttering close as it was all to much for him to handle.

“I-I have to cum...please I can’t t-take it anymore.” When did he resort to begging? The Yakuza boss would never beg!

“Well since you’ve been such a good boy I think you deserve it just this once.” You giggle before speeding up as you bounced up and down his cock. His cock was hitting all the right spaces and the vibrating cock ring kept hitting your clit giving you sparks of pleasure.

Chisaki’s eyes blew wide before he let out a scream of complete euphoria. Tears streamed down his face as ropes of his cum painted your insides white. You gripped his shoulders in an iron grip while your cunt clamped down on his cock and came all over his cock. You both were taking a breather before you decided to move your hips again making Chisaki whimper. He was even more sensitive then before. He couldn’t handle another round!

“I-I can’t do another round. My cock is so sensitive please you’ve won! you won!” Chisaki cried out as you bounced on his cock even faster than before. You leaned your head into his neck, giving it little kisses and praising him for being so cooperative. 

“Oh my sweet Overhaul, this game is no where near over.” You laughed in his ear while bouncing on his overstimulated dick. His eyes were puffy and red from tears and drool dripped down his chin. 

He hid his face inside your shoulder so you wouldn’t see how badly you were affecting him. His moans were muffled by your shoulder and your shoulder became wet with his tears and drool.

“Now tell me Overhaul, who does this cock belong to hmm? Who does this body belong to? Say the right answer and I’ll stop.” You laugh at him. It gave you some sort of twisted arousal to see this once powerful man tell you that he belongs to you. You enjoyed watching over him and seeing how far you could push him to the limit. You could tell he was trying to speak but he was still holding onto once sense of pride.

“Well if your not going to answer i have no where to be until 5pm and considering its only 11am, I say I have all the time in the world to hear you say you belong to me. And only me.” And you swore the look in his golden eyes was gonna be something you would never forget.

[whatdoesshedotothem]

Tuesday 28 August 1832

5 40

11 10

very rainy morning – F60 ½° at 6 – at my desk at 6 55 – wrote and copied into Business letter book vol. 2 Letter to M. Cusinberche saying I write by todays’ post to my bankers Messrs. Hammersleys and co. in London to desire them to pay to him on demand thro’ Messrs. Laffitte and co. 340fr. one years’ rent from 15 May 1832 to 15 May 1832 [1833] – had inquired about leeches – sorry I could not be of any service to him on this occasion as the dealers are supplied (as Suter told me the other day) at the quickest and cheapest possible rate chiefly from Hamburg – had delayed writing a month longer than I intended because hoping to leave here soon and because M. C- had said he would wait for rent till my return – still uncertain as ever – wrote and also copied letter to Messrs. Hammersleys to the above effect – breakfast at 8 10/.. with my father – at my desk at 9 and from then to after 6 looking over old accounts Hammersleys etc. and cashbook of 1830, and did a great of readding up – dinner at 6 ¼ - at 7 10 sent off my letter to ‘Messrs. Hammersleys, Bankers, London’

SH:7/ML/E/15/0111

and also my letter to ‘Monsieur Cusinberche, propriétaire de la maison, no. 27 Rue St. Victor, à Paris’ – then walked about the room a little – and my aunt came and talked to her – read from p. 74 to 124 Bucklands’ Reliquiae Diluvianae – at 9 letters and newspaper - 3 pages and ends of small sized sheet from Vere, Brussels 22 August, Hotel de l’Europe - kind letter - very happy - will be at Turin 20th September hopes to hear from me there - talks of being back next summer - asks if my winter plans are settled and if they shall see me at Rome or Naples - to go from Brussels by Louvain and Liege to Aachen (aux la Chapelle) and Cologne and thence along the Rhine - Letter also from Dr HSB- asks me to go to them for a week and he could then judge for himself - ‘your complaint appears to me to originate in intestinal torpor, and all the symptoms depend upon this cause, the medicine is directed to be taken twice a day, but should its action be excessive, you will graduate it accordingly’

[PRESCRIPTION]

odd enough that I should have been better both yesterday and this morning - might it not be from going to bed sooner and taking 3 or 4 cakes of gingerbread between 12 and 2 pm both yesterday and the day before? – went into the little room at 9 ½ - read over the courier – came to my room at 10 20 Incessantly rainy day – no workman came I believe – it would have been impossible to do much – F59° at 10 20 p.m.

[quickspinner]

Damsel in Distress for Hire

I wrote this for the @lovebugs-and-snakecharmers sprint challenge ages ago, but life happened and I never got it edited and cleaned up. Now I have, so here it is! I used the @mlweeklyprompts prompt Bard. 

Luka reined in Sass before the gelding could clear the shadows of the trees, and eyed the keep tower with some satisfaction. It stood alone on a hill, with ground cleared around it and a wall around the courtyard, and only a single tower rising out of the fortifications. It looked like their information had been good, then. Their opponent didn’t have a large force, hence their underhanded approach. They were depending on the seclusion of this place to keep them safe, and not strength of arms. That made him breathe a sigh of relief. He of all people knew how much harm misinformation could do, and though he had done everything in his power to be sure of his information, there always was that worry in the back of his mind. 

Luka urged Sass forward at a walk. 

“Hail and well met!” he called cheerfully, waving. “I am but a single traveler, of no threat to you!” He dismounted from Sass and spread his arms wide, hands far from the rapier hanging at his side. The guards exchanged a look, but didn’t move. 

“I am a minstrel on my way from the capital to cities in the south,” Luka said, with a little bow that still kept his hands well clear of his weapon. “I’ve been travelling all night to get through these woods, and as I’ve stumbled on you here, I was hoping I could perhaps share your fire and the protection your company would afford me from the local dregs so that I may take a short rest in peace? I have some goods of my own that are better shared, if you would be so kind to allow me to sup with you.” He leaned over and reached into his saddlebag and pulled out a large bottle that glinted appealingly in the sunlight.

The guardsmen exchanged grins with each other, and invited him at once to come and share their watch, on the condition that he give them all the news he had and play a little for their entertainment. 

“Shall I not be detaining you from your duties?” Luka asked, glancing up at the Keep as he tethered Sass. “I’ve no wish to get you in trouble, nor be chased away for causing undue distraction.” He winked at the guards, who chuckled. 

“It’s light duty today,” one of them said easily, stretching his legs out in front of him. “Any force large enough to breach it will be seen from the tower long before we spy it from here, and nothing here to tempt anyone except a fine lady who barely even had any baggage. Come and give us the news!” 

It was amazing, Luka reflected to himself as he sat down, opening the bottle and pouring generous measures into the cups they they held out for him, what you could get away with when you carried a lute and some good wine.

“Aye, she was a nice one to look at though,” the second guard observed with a sigh. “I was on duty when they escorted her in this morning. A highborn lady, that, worth her weight I’m sure. Not that the higher ups tell us much.” His companion elbowed him and gave him a dark look, before turning back to waggle bushy eyebrows at Luka. 

“Ye seen many pretty ladies?” he asked, and a smile twitched at Luka’s mouth at the obvious attempt to deflect the conversation. “Bet ye have, a court songbird like you.” 

“Oh, many,” Luka agreed, hiding his distaste at the epithet. Court songbird, indeed. “Duchesses and princesses and high court ladies of every kind, but there is only one lady that holds my heart, no matter how much my eyes may wander.” He winked and the two men guffawed. Luka disguised a roll of his eyes with another deep drink from his cup. He’d been around this type enough to know what kind of humor they enjoyed. Luka turned his eyes up in the direction of the keep, hiding his scrutiny behind a dreamy expression. 

“My lady is as lovely as any princess I’ve ever seen,” Luka continued. “Clumsy, sometimes, but all the more joy in catching her, ey?” Another round of laughter. “She has beautiful dark hair, and the sweetest, most beguiling eyes you’ve ever seen, and her mouth was carved by the gods.” He sighed longingly. “And I’ve been apart from her much too long. I’m on my way back to her now, and I appreciate you sharing your fire with a lonely minstrel.” 

“There, there,” the taller man said, not without genuine sympathy, and patted Luka’s shoulder roughly. “Ye’ll be with her again soon, no doubt.” 

Luka looked toward the Keep gates and smiled as shouts began to rise in the courtyard. “I do believe you’re right,” he said, finishing the last of his cup. “It’s been a pleasure, gentlemen, but my lady awaits. I leave you this medicinal powder and my sincerest apologies for the headache you’re going to have in the mornings.” 

He set a small pouch on the ground, where it would be in plain sight of the men who had just slumped to the ground, unconscious. 

Luka tsked as he picked up their empty cups and examined the residue at the bottom. “More than enough to keep them out most of the day,” he murmured with satisfaction. He leaned back against his pack and waited.

Eventually, the heavy keep doors swung open, and a petite figure in a lovely velvet red dress came striding out. Luka couldn’t help his smile, or the sigh of relief and longing that passed his lips. 

She caught sight of him and scowled, completely ignoring the passed out guards that lay on the ground. 

“What the hell are you doing here?” she demanded. 

“Well met, to you as well, Marinette,” Luka laughed. His roguish smile made a mockery of his courtly bow. 

“Why are you here?” she asked again, crossing her arms. “You were supposed to wait in the capital.”

“I am no court bard, to find inspiration in perfume and flattery and empty love affairs,” Luka sniffed affectedly. “I am a seeker of adventure, and I follow my heart.”

“You dog my heels,” Marinette accused, reaching down to pull out the hidden ribbon she had worked into her gown. The dress split on the sides, and Marinette straightened, rolling the ribbon carefully around her fingers even as she glared at him. “Admit it.”

“Admit that you have my heart? Gladly.” Luka swept a bow, and Marinette rolled her eyes.

“Don’t flatter me,” she snorted. “You’re not any good at it.” 

“Shall I compliment you instead?” Luka asked pointedly, and Marinette blushed, looking away. His compliments were always far worse than his flattery, because he meant them. 

“Don’t change the subject. You were worried about me,” she accused, waving a dagger like an admonitionary finger. “I can handle myself.” 

“You can handle yourself, and me as well,” Luka grinned, and then softened his tone, dropping his courtly pretense. “But I’m always worried about you. That proves nothing except that I care about you.” He held up a furled parchment between them. “However, this is actually why I’m here. I also bring Lady Kagami’s thanks and her appreciation for your very convincing performance of a helpless highborn princess being carried off, although she feels it wasn’t a very accurate imitation of her.” 

Marinette snorted. “Kagami could have easily handled these idiots herself if her mother wasn’t such a stick in the mud. It probably would have been more entertaining for everyone if they had managed to kidnap her.” She sheathed her dagger and took the parchment, unrolling it as she added, “I hope she sent her payment as well as her thanks.” Her lips pursed as she read, and then pushed out in a pout as she looked up at him. “Okay. That’s a good reason.” 

“No point in riding all the way back just to traverse the exact same route again,” Luka agreed. “And since I was coming all this way, why not meet you at the door? I’ve stashed our supplies in a nice little campsite far enough away from this mess,” he gestured at the tower. “We can spend the night and set out in the morning.”

“We?” Marinette asked, eyebrows raising. Luka shrugged.

“I’ve no mind to let you get that far away from me for that long,” he told her, only half joking. “I’m sure there’s a noble house somewhere in the city looking for entertainment, and if not—” Luka shrugged. “Then there’s certain to be a tavern."

Marinette grimaced. “I don’t like it when you play taverns,” she muttered. “You’re far too good for that.”

“We take the pay where it comes,” Luka reminded her, plucking the parchment from her hand and tucking it back in his saddlebag.

“It doesn’t have to come with tavern wenches hanging all over you,” Marinette complained. 

Luka barked a laugh. “The noble ladies are just as bad, only more subtle,” he chuckled, mounting his horse. He extended a hand down to Marinette. “Shall we? I’m sure Tikki’s getting hungry.”  

Marinette looked up at his tall gelding and sighed. “I can get up myself,” she muttered, but she let Luka grip her wrist to give her a little extra boost. She landed across Sass on her belly with a small grunt, and then scrambled into place behind Luka. She could see the curve of his smile just before he faced forward. 

“I’m glad you’re coming with me,” she murmured into his shoulder blades. “And I’ll gut anyone who touches you.”

“My thanks, my gallant lady protector,” Luka said, patting the hands clasped around his waist. “I need fear nothing as long as you are with me, except the hour of parting.”

Marinette huffed, her breath tickling his neck. “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”

Luka looked over his shoulder and winked. “If my heart grew much fonder of you, you would never be rid of me.” 

Marinette was silent for a moment, and then said, “Maybe I don’t want to be.” She said it very quietly, and held her breath after. Luka’s big hand covered hers again, his thumb caressing the back.

“Then maybe you should say yes the next time I propose,” came the teasing answer, and Marinette’s mouth dropped in outrage. 

“You propose every time we pass a church!” she scoffed. 

“Yes,” Luka agreed shamelessly. “How many churches do you think there are between here and the Jewel of the Southern Wastes ?” 

“Not enough to convince me to marry you,” Marinette shot back. “I like the way things are.” 

"As do I," Luka chuckled.

Marinette sniffed. "I knew you weren't serious."

"Of course I am. I will wed you the moment you say the word. But if you are content, then so am I."

"You're infuriating, you know that?" Marinette huffed. 

“There, there,” Luka laughed, patting her hand before putting his own back on the reins. “We’ve a long way to go to get there, and through some pretty sketchy territory. Maybe if you’re really lucky, we’ll get robbed.”

“You think?” Marinette perked up. “Bandits?”

“Possibly even ruffians ,” Luka teased, and laughed when she smacked his shoulder. 

“Ruffians are always broke,” Marinette complained. “I want bandits. I’m going to have to buy new dresses when we get there, I can’t wear dresses from the Northern court in the South. I’d look ridiculous.” Her eyes widened slightly. “Luka, what did you do with my dresses? You didn’t pack them yourself, did you? They’re much too delicate—”

“I had them professionally packed and sealed and sent to Lady Alya for safekeeping,” Luka reassured her. “I would never dare let harm come to your wardrobe.” 

Marinette slumped in relief. “Oh, good.” After a moment she added, “Thank you.”

Luka lifted one of her hands from his waist and kissed the palm softly. 

[ethereal-wishes]

Mutual Ties

Princess Elisabelle of Avonlea stood before her captor, a satisfied smirk painted on her lips and madness in her murderous blue eyes. She was nary afraid, and this unnerved the guards overseeing her. A wide grin stretched across her porcelain face as he strolled into the throne room. He was regal and dastardly, and she had him right where she wanted him.

“Princess Elisabelle, we still haven’t come to terms for the release of your father and brother. Are you unperturbed by their harsh sentencing?” Her captor inquired in his thick brogue.

The princess shrugged nonchalantly. “They can both bloody hang for all I care.”

“Ahh, so no terms for their pardoning then? Is there anyone I could mercilessly torture that would make you more agreeable?” He probed, dusting a calloused finger down her jawline.

“Everyone I love is dead,” she answered flatly.

He yanked his hand away, biting back a curse. “I’m Rumple Von Stiltskin the conquer! I’m not a bloody negotiator! Your piss poor country has been subjugated, and you don’t seem to give a damn.”

She nodded emotionlessly. “Correct. Perhaps with new leadership my people won’t starve. You’re the wealthiest tyrant in all the realms. Surely you can spare them a morsel or two.”

He paused, analyzing her weary eyes and defeated persona. She wasn’t afraid of him because she had nothing to lose. He’d witnessed that look many times before, standing in the mirror as he gazed at his own reflection. He hadn’t been that man in a very long time, a far shadow from the cutthroat bastard he was today.

“You seem overly elated I’m here, and yet I’m the most feared villain in all the realm,” he noted.

“I guess that depends on everyone’s perception of you. You’re the answer to my prayers. I’ve been waiting for someone like you to swoop in and overthrow my traitorous father’s mutinous reign,” she spoke freely, her wit sharp and eyes piercing.

“And if I slit your pretty little throat, would I still be an answer to your prayers?” He taunted.

“You won’t lay a finger on me. You never persecute the women or children in the places you vanquish,” she clarified brazenly.

He was silent for a long moment. “Read up on me, have you?”

“No, I’m just an excellent judge of character,” she supplied, removing her dingy lace gloves. He blinked owlishly when she showed him her hands. Deep cuts and scars marred her spellbinding flesh. She was too lovely for words, and he longed to disembowel the person responsible for inflicting such pain upon her.

“Who did this to you?” He demanded with a sharp intake of breath.

“My father and brother. I loathe them both. I was punished for gifting a small kitchen maid some plum pudding. We had more than enough to eat, and the way she gaped at me with her hollow eyes – pained from hunger. How could I deny her?” She stifled back an onslaught of tears. “That’s how papa preferred them, starving and submitted.”

Rumple dismounted onto one knee, clasping her scarred hand, and drawing it to his lips. He seared a reverent kiss to the underside of her wrist. “Princess, what is it you desire of me?” he remarked breathlessly.

“A new name and a new crown,” she requested shamelessly.

He granted her an assessing look. “I’m a hard man to love with an impossible heart to tame.”

“I never said I was looking for love, my liege. I simply wish to be rid of this traitorous title,” she said, meeting his gaze with valor shining in her azure depths.

He chuckled darkly at her heroism, believing he had finally met his match. “And what shall my new bride desire as her wedding gift?”

Belle gazed into his eyes, resolute. “To be the one which wields the ax on my father and brother’s execution day,” she requested, her voice void of mercy – her captivating eyes full of bloodlust.

“As you wish, my queen,” he whispered against the shell of her ear, leaving her breathless.

[kat-hawke]

Round 2

Stress and tension swelled as reports of Grimm began to dwindle, and the newfound funding opened more doors, which in turn brought their hurdles. Against Thea's wishes, the Director cut her day short and retired to the lower levels of the tram for the afternoon.

The scent of blood mixed with liquor and drugs in the brawl pub air, a calming and dangerous combination for the beast shackled within. Abstaining from the ring herself, Kat perched from a rented room above, trading the official attire for leathers and pulling the hair in tight braids to complete the façade of "Darah" that so many became accustomed to. 

The fight below offered moderate entertainment but ended too soon for her enjoyment. At the far edge of the pub, the glimpse of a familiar elf caught her eye, heading for the stairs to the upper level. Nostrils flared with a heated breath as she retreated to the crescent-shaped sofa with a drink in hand. The Ren'dorei stood her up in the original agreement, but now she returns. She signaled for the bouncer to allow entry just as the elven woman approached with a motion of one hand.

Serelia brushed past the massive bouncer, strutting into the room without cleaning from her last fight. Unceremoniously, she dropped a hefty leather-bound tome onto the coffee table beside Kat's feet. The covers dyed black as midnight, a large embossed 'H' the only image upon the face.

"So far, this seems to be useless to my situation. Not that I needed much more confirmation that my former employers were all bluster and no impact. I see you survived the Scourge incursion Darah?" A flicker of a smile touched the elf's lips, "rumors that you're hard to kill remain true."

"Ya' canno' kill that which does no' truly live," Kat scoffed before casting her gaze over the tome.

Her lips twisted in disgust at the embossed emblem, letting the hum of dissatisfaction roll in her throat before silencing it with a sip of whiskey.

"Yer former employers were always fluffers- show ponies. Like rotted apples painted red. Look real good from th' outside but real shite beneath the outer layer." She sucked her teeth in spite. "Wot do ya' expect when ya' ask a child playin' with mommy's toys t'perform a job fit for an experienced adult?"

Serelia drops onto the other part of the curved section of the couch, and her empty eyes turned towards Kat. "That all measures up. I thought I'd seen all the bluster nobility could muster in Silvermoon, but at least they backed it with power. Human nobility is an oxymoron the way it's used here." She puts feet up, crossing ankles on top of the book, hands folding in her lap. 

"Nobility," Kat mocked, "please. At best, these want-to-be imbeciles are glorified harems, no'-so-secret adultery, and the pompous new-bloods thinkin' they can demand respect. They wouldn' know noble if it bit 'em on the ass." 

"Needless to say," Serelia continues, "my other possible source didn't lead anywhere useful, and so once more I am before you, where I should've stayed from the start."

"Sometimes we have t'learn th' hard way that we were right the first time, luv'." Kat's statement comes with a sly grin, her arms stretching across the back of the cushion as she studied the adjacent elf. "Should have listened, could have saved yer self some precious time. Who knows how much more rooted or detrimental things 'ave become in that poor judgmen'."

"I hadn't planned for a scourge invasion to disrupt our schedule. The Void does seem to take at an increasing rate," the elf grunted, shuttering her gaze for a moment. "I'm ready to bargain. What cost is your help, and where do we start?"

Glancing out over the fight pit, Kat chuckled, amused at the situation. She felt less inclined to offer her assistance now.

"Remind me again wot it is I am to assist ya' with?" Masking the sarcasm, Kat toyed with the elf.

Serelia's expression doesn't betray her feelings on being asked that again. 

"My eyes were damaged by a Warlock's Felfire. The Void overtook my vision to...repair them. I now see the world like a storm of chaos, where every possible reality is overlaid atop one another. I wear glasses," a hand rises to slightly adjust them on her nose, "enchanted to help filter it to some degree, but I can only use it to adjust the things that I gain confidence are true."

Wagging a finger in the woman's direction, Kat clicked her tongue in an uncaring manner. "Ah, right. Right. And ya' don' know wot yer child truly looks like because of it all. Such a shame, really." 

"I do not," Serelia replies, expression and tone darkening a bit at the reminder.

Drawing a deep and sardonic breath, Kat sank into the plush cushion of the couch, shrugging faintly. 

"T'be quite honest, luv', things have changed since our last exchange. My needs and desires are a myriad of ever-shifting webs to suit the current situations of the world. T'bring my goals to fruition, of course." One thumb rand across the fingertips as another hollow hum rang out. 

"Here t'bargain ya' say? And pray tell, wot exactly do ya' have t'bargain with that is of interest t'me?"

"Service," Serelia replies. Exhaling a breath and feet returning to the floor as she sits forward, clasping hands together, elbows resting on the knees. "I am, perhaps not to your degree, but relatively proficient and moving between spaces in the Void. You've already seen me fight several times now." 

She paused to lock eyes with the Director.

"I don't want to work for the crown, but I'll work for you."

Deliberately, Kat yawned and waved a hand at the proposition. Everyone wanted to offer this, and after years of broken promises and missed deadlines, she found that people default to that which is easily untracked or collected upon. Her patience with the meeting began to wane.

"Did the bouncer let in the rabble again? I thought I was in th' company of one I granted an audience to." Sarcasm hung from every word, unimpressed by the offer. 

"Same offer I hear time 'n time again, luv'. 'bout fifty-fifty if they make good on th' word, but yer gonna need t'try harder than that. Ya've heard the stories. I can fight m'own battles."

Serelia's lips tighten into a flat line. "I've heard the stories," she agrees, "I'm offering what I have. If it's not enough, it's not enough. Spent my first dozen decades in the military; combat training was my life. I've nothing of monetary value. My skills are the thing I own to give."

Kat's eyes shut, and her head shook slowly. "Blind in more ways than one, I suppose." 

With a quiet breath, she looked to Serelia again. "We'll call it a favor owed, then. Maybe in time, ya'll find somethin' of value."

Serelia, visibly annoyed by the counter off, opened her mouth to speak but clamped it shut again. An irritated tone rumbled from behind the pressed lips before she conceded in a simple agreement, "A favor owed then."

"I knew ya'd be smart about it, luv'. Had ya' left and came back a third time, I may no' have been quite as generous. Simple economics; supply and demand." A wicked grin pulled across Kat's lips, the teeth poking through. "Ya' understand."

"Be easier to establish what I could supply if I had any idea what you demand." The elf retorted. "You're right. I'm blind. I come from a rigid structure that likely put me into a set way of thinking. I'm missing corners and other avenues. If you think I've got something you want, then let's hear it, but I don't know what your angle is right now, and games around wants are exhausting to play." 

"If it weren't for my daughter, maybe I would walk instead of play, but if games are what it takes, then that's where we are. So. A favor owed."

"Ya' don't play much poker, do ya'?" Kat muttered.

"There is no game t'play, luv'. Ya' agreed, and that's all I needed. Ya' want control over th'power, and I can give it to ya'. But remember; wot is given can also be taken away."

"It won't be," Serelia replies as if stating a fact. "Regardless, price has been agreed then. When and how do we start?"

"Depends," Kat answered as her fingers drummed upon the cushion. "Do ya' want control or freedom?"

Serelia's lips curved into a crooked smile at that. "What a question..." she hesitates only a moment before completing her answer. "Control."

Kat's head inclined and rolled to the side ever so slightly as she stared curiously at the elf. 

"Too many eyes and ears here. Need somewhere quiet. Secluded. Are ya' familiar with Elwynn?"

"I am," Serelia replies. Her posture eased slightly at the suggestion of resuming this conversation in a more quiet environs.

"Good. Wander in th' woods east of Goldshire after sundown." Kat instructed, keeping her eyes on the elf as the last of her drink was down.

"I'll find you."

"Deal." Serelia agreed with a throaty chuckle, standing to her feet and motioning to the tome. 

"You want to burn this useless book of 'shadowmancy' or whatever they called themselves, or shall I?" 

"I want that book." Alyssa chimed into the conversation before Kat could respond.

Kat ignored the dagger-bound soul, partially annoyed at the interruption and slightly concerned with how much environmental awareness she gained from within the blade.

"Shadowmancy? Fer fucks sake... There ain't no such thing. Buch of fuckin' wanna-be's." The Director spat, rolling her eyes at the tome before waving off the Ren'dorei.

"I'll do more than burn this amateur level bullshit. Trust me."

"Good riddance," Serelia nods as she turned to exit the rented room. "To the whole family."

[ @serelia-evensong​ ]

[wu-sisyphus-gang]

Motion Sickness Chapter 52

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Neo and I waltzed up on Aurum. I had my pipe clenched between my front teeth and was taking a pull on it long enough to make my head spin. Damn, it felt good. Silence, apart from the soul rending music. True peace with the bugs behind my face.

Cobalt and Obsidian were there and they were armed. Obsidian had a hatchet, red and black, and Cobalt had a machine gun. I could only guess who they were for. They didn't really concern me. I was a tough cookie and Neo was no slouch.

"Well you busted my boys out. I owe you for that," Aurum told me. "Join me. Have a seat."

I did, carefully maneuvering the harness of tools on my back. Neo plopped down beside me, kicking one leg up over the other. I watched Cobalt's eyes watch her legs and snorted a little. Maybe he hadn't seen any action in a while.

I took another long take on my pipe and made sure to blow it away from Neo out of a sense of politeness and professional courtesy.

"You got my information?" I half asked, half demanded. "I want to know about that facility."

"Easy champ. Relax. Have a drink." He poured one out for us. Neo obliged him but I was already cruising. The ceiling and walls were doing a decent rate in my head. It felt awesome but I didn't need to add to that in case things went sideways.

I tapped my pipe out on an ashtray. "You better not fuck around with me. I'll rip your party pad apart to find what I want and I'll hand you over to Neo. She'll chew into you."

"Don't be like that. I was just going to offer you more work. You did a good job and you're quite the badass from what I'm told." Obsidian shuffled, a touch nervously. Perhaps remembering coasting by guide wires thousands of feet above the ground as I flew him and his pal around. Or maybe he was remembering the way I ripped the roof off his prisoner transport. "I have no intention of pissing you off. I just wanted you to know that there was more I could offer you."

"Like what?"

"Money, for one."

"Not interested," I disagreed quickly. I had millions in digital currency and a few dozen grand in cash.

"Maybe so." He went with it easily. "How about information on the General. I can put you in contact with a group that will let you know what he's really up to. I don't have the details myself."

I reclined. He had my attention. I packed another bowl from my grinder.

"Let's hear about the Schnee and her facility first. Then we can talk about the General."

"Very well. She visits the Sinovial Bunker everyday. It's near the academy. All she does is visit this old lady the whole place is built around. Your guess is as good as mine as to why. I have a few eyes inside but they're not allowed close to the woman. The only person she's allowed to see is the Schnee, which death might be preferable to."

I nodded. It was the summer or winter maiden. It had to be. That made Winter the next maiden if the General's plan went well. Something to keep an eye on. I could set my trap for Cinder around the place.

"Or maybe your guess as to why is better than mine."

"Maybe." I took a toke, keeping the place spinning at an appropriate rate. Not too fast, not too slow. Indica tended to wear off fast.

"Well don't share everything all at once now." He laughed and poured himself another drink.

"I had no intention of doing so. You'd be the one owing me after that."

"So are you ready to talk about the General?" He asked.

"And a few other people. What have you heard about a man named Merlot?" I asked. He frowned and shook his head. "How about Tyrian Callows? Or Hazel Rainart? Or Cinder Fall?"

"The first one rings a bell. He's in Atlas if nothing else. A scorpion faunus, yes?"

I nodded. "He's incredibly dangerous. I have a bit of a vendetta against him. He tried to kill me once."

"He tried to kill you ."

"I wasn't always such a badass."

"Well if he comes up, I'll leave him to you, shall I?"

"That would be best. He might kill you and torture you for fun. He's a bit of a psycho."

"Well I'm willing to pass on information about all four. In exchange for a favor."

"What do you need me to do?" That's what I was. I was a doer. I got things done for people now.

"A rival gang is moving in on my territory. I need you to stomp them out. It shouldn't be a problem for somebody of your talents."

"You need them dead or just hurt?" I asked.

"Either or. I need them out of my way."

"Tell me more about them."

"They're called the Blue-Hats. You heard of them?"

I shook my head and exhaled smoke. It was quickly lost to the energy of The Den.

"They've got this big hang-out in Cerebri-Plaza. I'll show you." He pulled out his scroll and flicked open a map of Atlas. "They're fucking annoying."

"What do they do?"

"Run drugs mostly. Occasionally they do killings and beatings but mostly drugs. They're my main competition when it comes to hyper."

I nodded along. "And you want me to bust their skulls. Burn their supply, maybe."

"I like where your head's at. I'd rather you steal it for my boys but if you can't do that then go for it and burn it. Sure, why not?" He swallowed some of his drink. "My own boys haven't been able to crack at them, not since they were in prison. But now we have you. And I'd rather things didn't devolve into shooting in the streets. Try and keep it indoors. You get this done for me. And I'll find out about those four. All you want to know. Plus the General's secret project. What do you say?"

I chewed on my pipe and looked at his projected map of Atlas. "Send me their location information."

"What? You going to do it now?"

"I've got nothing better to do. I'll be back before the night is over. Keep my seat warm." If it was just this then it would be easy. Too easy. I sometimes forget what life was like for non-hunters. Considering how long I'd been a hunter.

I'd been at it for nearly my whole life. Practically my whole life. It's just that I was only three years old or so. I've been out of the tank that long, I guess. I was maybe four depending on how you wanted to cut your definition of life, which I realize was a discussion most people didn't have to have with themselves.

That's how long I'd been grown in that incubator to adulthood. Then I'd immediately gone to Beacon, had my aura unlocked, and started fighting.

It was a matter of relativity, I suppose. I'd been at it for arguably longer than Ruby or Yang had been. If it was a matter of ratios rather than time, that is.

"Well you do work fast," Aurum said in his tacky suit.

I stood up and Neo bounced on her heels behind me. "Yep." I told her. "We're off to smash some heads in. Get excited."

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It was a three story building and I took my time scoping it out. I'd had to pocket my pipe once I got outside of The Den. I was sure I had an earthly cologne, besides.

It was getting to midnight and sure enough a bunch of boys in blue hats came in and out of the building. The closest thing to gang uniforms that really existed besides the Malachites' gear.

It had nice glass windows and music and lights radiated from the inside. It sounded like as much of a party was going on inside as was taking place at The Den. It was too bad Neo and I were going to pop this joint.

I pulled a few red dust crystals and squeezed them until they shattered like I practiced. Then I waved a hand and blew out the windows on the top floor with fire. Screaming poured from the inside. I had told Aurum I was going to burn it and he made it clear he didn't care enough for me to not.

I palmed a yellow crystal and crushed it in my hand. I waved a hand and lightning struck the upper floor and shook the building.

I was going to shake and batter the place with my magic first. Then I was going to strike with Neo beside me. She had her umbrella leaning against one shoulder and was standing next to me, watching me cast my bolt against the building.

The building was all silver greys like much of the Atlas skyline. And it had been built to code with enough distance between it and the nearby buildings that the fire now burning inside wouldn't spread. It was an isolated target.

I activated my semblance. I felt the power flood over and throughout me. I focused my will, my very essence on holding onto the power as long as I could. I glowed blue and hummed with energy.  

I reached over my shoulder and drew the bronze and white longsword with the foot and a half long red handle. I spun it in one hand with ease, leaving my shield on my back. The broadsword would only be hampered in doors and I was fast enough that the shield wasn't necessary for these sorts of goons.

I walked up to the burning building and kicked the front door down and in. People came running out screaming and I let them. It was those staying behind to save the product from the burning building I would need to deal with.

A kid with a blue hat turned a pistol sideways at me and shot with atrocious aim. He had red hair and dark eyes. Another blakc haired kid added submachine gun fire to the mix and I rushed forward, hovering inches above the ground.

I slashed Mr. Gangsta to the ground. He fell screaming. Then I cut the submachine gun into pieces and reached my free hand out and grabbed the man still holding the butt of the weapon. I threw him behind me into a wall hard enough to crack it. Both him and the wall, that is.

There were people trying to save boxes from the upstairs fire. Boxes which I could smell were full of greens and it made my mouth water a touch. Unfortunately I couldn't have any of that and I raced at them and sliced the boxes out of their hands.

A knife came up at me which I blocked with my free hand and turned with incredible strength against its user, a brown haired kid with blue eyes. It sank into his stomach and he fell gasping to the stairs. Slumping to the side. Red smeared across his hair and face.

I snatched a pistol out of one of their hands and shattered it by squeezing it. I kicked him down but left him alone otherwise so he could carry the others to safety.

The last man had aura. It was blue and crackling.

I kicked him with both legs and he fell to the side. I bashed him with the pomel of Crocea Mors. I claimed the stairway to find Neo already fighting on the second floor. There were nearly fifteen Blue-Hats up here. I readied my sword and slashed the barrel of a rifle in two and throw the man behind it to the ground. I kicked him in the chin afterwards.

I slashed at another in the gut and he went down holding his chest and letting the blood fly free. I stepped past the dying man and onto the next. I stabbed with the tip of Crocea Mors and met resistance. More aura. I stabbed again and cut once and eventually made my way through it and he fell to the side bleeding.

I came up on a woman in a blue hat and long blonde hair. She was pretty enough with bright blue eyes but I cut her aside anyways with the diagonal edge of Crocea Mors' longsword.

I slammed the hilt of the blade into the skull of another and I pulled out another dust crystal. Yellow. I squeezed it and it turned grey as it broke and the energy came rushing up my arm. I pointed a hand forward and the bolt struck behind where seven of them were forming a foreign line and tossed them about like rag dolls.

Just because I was mostly immune to small arm fire didn't mean I wanted to go up against a firing squad. There were heaps of brown boxes in the corner and I watched the still growing fires consume them.

Neo wrapped her legs around one poor soul's head and flung him back into the flames where he screamed in real pure agony. Getting burned hurts. A lot. Getting burned all over probably hurts a lot more.

I grabbed a blue hat by the collar and picked him up with a casual strength and slammed his head into the ceiling then I tossed him aside. All these guys the fire would probably consume. I went back and stabbed him in the chest. It just seemed more merciful.

I could see plastic packets of hyper, some drown out on tables others still in their boxes. I palmed another fire crystal and let the fire burst forth from it. I was using dust raw. In its most destructive form. I'd heard of sewing it into clothes as Cinder did, I'd also heard of consuming it into the body to be used as a bit of an amplifier. This was either of those. This was the caveman's version of using dust. It was simple and raw.

I was strangely good at it. I consumed a crystal and cast my sword at a group of boxes and let the fires wash forth from the blade. I wasn't even sure I'd be able to hold onto the power very long. Better to use it before it hurt me and let it out.

I was still holding onto my semblance and I glided forward and front kicked a blue hat out of a window. He tumbled through the glass violently and fell the two stories.

The building was starting to cave in on us. Beams from the third floor where I'd sent my first blast were descending onto the second. And I'd set this floor ablaze a plenty.

"Neo! Let's bug out. Jobs done." I told her. The place was falling apart. I slashed at the wall and bounded out into the street and landed in a single massive leap.

I sheathed my sword and brushed ash from my dark clothes. I slapped at my cape where the lamp hung by my side. We made this look easy too. It would have been much harder if I'd been respecting the sanctity of life but who had the time and the power to do that. It would take a near god to go around sparing life in the sort of combat I was in. I could kill, that was abundantly clear.

But how could I minimize the loss of life in a burning building I was attacking? I couldn't stop time or manipulate space. My semblance just made me stronger and faster. And I wasn't sure that Neo would have been on board if I was trying to avoid death all the time. I wasn't sure I could keep her on my side if that was the case.

I released my semblance. Letting my power evaporate into nothing. I'd held onto it for a long time in there. I was sure that with enough practice I'd be able to hold onto the power indefinitely. I might even be able to combine different dust types with it and do all sorts of nasty things one day. For now all I was capable of was raw destruction with dust. I might be able to eat it one day with enough practice. And I had the money for dust and I was in the dust capital of the world.

I'd make time to practice magic. People like Aurum would give me all the targets I could ask for and one life was as inconsequential to me as another. I'd have my share of practice to use the power against.

But when I ran into Tyrian again I wanted to be ready to squash him like the bug he was. And when I fought Cinder again I wanted to have all the tools I could possibly have at my disposal. That meant practicing dust eating. That meant practicing using its raw form and perhaps using it with my weapon to bring out the greatest effect like Raven had done.

In a moment she had turned the tide enough in that fight to escape from me. When I had her dead to rights she'd used dust to leverage enough of an advantage, just enough, to win. I couldn't remain ignorant about dust any longer. I had to learn how to use it for magic.

For now that meant these little things against people like the Blue-Hats. But one day it would mean taking dust to that next level against monsters like Cinder. With enough dust, I could overcome the power of a maiden. I had literally no excuse to stop improving and stop getting better. So in the weeks Neo and I had traveled I practiced.

Yuma had been right to say I was loaded with the stuff. Now I could do minor destruction magic with it. It wasn't enough. It may never be enough but I had to use every resource available to me if I wanted to defeat Cinder. She was two maidens now. I wasn't sure there had ever been such a thing in all of history but she was now.

She also knew how to use dust and glass and gods only knew what her semblance was. She was dangerous. Probably more dangerous than me and more dangerous than ever. I need the edge dust could bring if I ever wanted to defeat her. That was why I brought Neo on board.

I needed to seize every edge.

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-WG

[economictheoriesitcp-pt1]

ECONOMIC THEORIES

Economics tackles with how society deals with our natural and limited resources and how we utilize them. The five theories discussed below deals with different theories that delve deep into economics and its inner workings.

INNOVATION THEORY

While we shall return to Schumpeter’s views of proper government policy in a later chapter, for now we simply point out that these policies can have large impacts on the rate of experimentation and discovery undertaken by entrepreneurs in the economy. To Schumpeter, this process was the key to economic growth and prosperity. Entrepreneurship is important because it is the competitive behavior of entrepreneurs in search of profits that drives this search for new possible combinations of resources that create more value.

Some of these new combinations will be more valuable than existing combinations and some will not. In a market economy, it is the profit-and-loss system that is used to sort through these new resource combinations discovered by entrepreneurs, discarding bad ideas through losses and rewarding good ones through profits. A growing, vibrant economy depends not only on entrepreneurs discovering, evaluating, and exploiting opportunities to create new goods and services, but also on the speed it which ideas are labeled as successes or failures by the profit-and-loss system.

From an economic standpoint then, business failure has a positive side; it gets rid of bad combinations of resources, freeing up those resources to be used in other endeavors, and provides information and signals to other entrepreneurs about that losing combination. A vibrant economy will have both a large number of new business start-ups and a large number of business failures. In an economy where all entrepreneurs—even those with crazy ideas for new pizza combinations—can try them out in the marketplace, there will be a lot of mistakes.

KEYNESIAN THEORY

Keynesian theory was developed by a British economist John Maynard Keynes. It was established during the 1930s with the objective to understand the great depression. Keynes aims to increase the government costs and lower the taxes to increase the demand and pull the global economy out of the depression. Afterward, the term “Keynesian economics” was used so that the best economic performance could be achieved and prevent economic slumps. Keynesian believes that consumer demand is the primary factor in an economy. Its main tools are government spending on infrastructure, unemployment benefits, and education.

In periods of economic boom, Keynes advocated saving to build a buffer so that you can increase spending in a downturn. To Keynesian Theory is to give a precise formula for evaluating the indirect impacts of an increase in government expenditure, Keynes identified the determinant of the consumption component of aggregate demand and analyzed the corresponding multiplier. He also claims that a decrease in money wages can only improve the level of employment by increasing the level of effective demand, and that the primary method is by increasing the quantity of money in terms of pay. When the economy is decreasing, growth is slowing, and jobs are being lost, when families are saving rather than buying, it should act in the other direction.

The video supports the Keynesian theory because they explain the policies of the Keynesian theory. It chose the advantages of using the Keynesian theory. According to the video debt and inflation brings prosperity. To stimulate the economy, invest and spend.

SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY

According to Max Weber, social action is an individual's action that is influenced by the action and behavior of other individuals and by which it is modified and its direction is determined.

Hence forth, His emphasis on the mutual orientation of social actors and the “understandable” cognition of their actions was grounded in ability to accurately assess, which account for much of his approaches in sense of belonging. The actions of the past, present, and future can all have an impact on social action. As a result, social action is a result of or a modification of some other person's or persons' action.

Therefore, I conclude that the sociological theory according to Max Weber is the social action that necessitates the development of another person as well as some action on his part. This means that social action cannot take place in isolation. As a result, social action is conceivable if another human being's action or behavior prompts the granting individual to act in a particular way.

RISK AND UNCERTAINTY-BEARING THEORY

Frank Hyneman Knight developed the risk and uncertainty bearing theory. Uncertainty and risk are the most essential factors in the production of goods and services in a corporation, according to this theory. An entrepreneur must be aware of the possibility of random events occurring while yet accepting the risk. If an entrepreneur is willing to take a risk, he or she will be rewarded abundantly. His theory stated that in a business, uncertainty generates profit, and the more uncertainty taken on, the more profit generated. It claims that taking risks is a key characteristic that distinguishes entrepreneurs from other workers.

You must be willing to take chances if you want to be an entrepreneur. You must be prepared to put things on the line. Simply said, there is no way to be a successful entrepreneur without taking risks. This is due to the fact that with risk comes opportunity. Navigating these risks is the key to being a successful business. To take the ones you can afford while avoiding the ones you can't. Entrepreneurial endeavors are, in this sense, all about risk and uncertainty management.

According to his theory, bearing business uncertainty creates profit and the more uncertainty taken on, the more profit can be gained. The relationship between uncertainty and gain may be linear, or even exponential, where there are bigger payoffs when the uncertainty born is greater. The notion places a high value on the entrepreneur's capacity to make decisions in the face of uncertainty. The uncertainty viewpoint also implies a moral dimension: businesses that are prepared to take on enormous uncertainty may be entitled to windfall profits when they do succeed on rare occasions.

The video above this theory because it tells us the biggest risks that entrepreneurs encounter when they are launching their business. The video also gave some tips on how to handle risk in entrepreneurship.

ALFRED MARSHALL THEORY / PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS

Alfred Marshall was an English economist who was one of few influential economists of their time. He wrote “Principal of Economics” in 1890 and was the dominant economic textbook in England for many years. The ideas of supply and demand, marginal utility, and cost of production were brought into a coherent whole by it. He was also considered one of the founders of “new economics.”

Before Marshall, economists had differing ideas on the principle on how to determine the price of a product. He answered these varied views by explaining that the price of a product is the point where production cost meets the consumers’ marginal utility. These are represented by curves on a graph, by which the supply curve represents the production cost while the demand curve represents the consumers’ marginal utility. These curves constantly change, like how if a product’s supply decreases, the price would increase.

Marginal utility refers to a consumer’s satisfaction when they consume a unit. When the unit of consumption grows, the satisfaction would decrease. Marshall described this as a new way to analyze economic phenomena. While reviewing one factor, other factors are temporarily placed aside. This approach helps determine causalities between economic phenomena. The narrower the scope of the problem, the easier it would be to analyze the economic phenomenon.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP PERFORMANCE TASK#1

SUBMITTED BY: 12 - ITCP 1A / GROUP 6

GROUP 6: Sevilla, Christian Roy Sinining, James Andre Sabandal, Kier Ivan Salig, Lyn Charisse Sobere-yu, Michael James Romero, Mike Bernd Serilla, Katleen Mae Villaver, Kent Legran Repunte, Frenz Nicole