#exterior scaffolding

[scaffoldexpress]

A Comprehensive Guide to Purchasing Scaffolding for Construction Projects

In the world of construction, scaffolding plays a crucial role in providing a safe and efficient work environment for workers at elevated heights. Whether you're involved in small-scale renovations or large-scale construction projects, choosing the right scaffolding is essential for ensuring the success of the job. This comprehensive guide aims to educate you about the various types of scaffolding, important factors to consider before making a purchase scaffolding, and key safety guidelines to adhere to.

Understanding Scaffolding and Its Types

Scaffolding is a temporary structure erected to support workers and materials during construction, maintenance, or repair activities. There are several types of scaffolding available, each with unique features suited for different applications.

a. Supported Scaffolding: This type of scaffolding relies on rigid support elements, such as poles, frames, or outriggers. It is commonly used for low to medium-rise projects and is versatile enough to accommodate different load capacities.

b. Suspended Scaffolding: Suspended scaffolding is suspended from the top of a structure using ropes or chains. It is ideal for high-rise projects or scenarios where ground-based scaffolding is impractical.

c. Rolling Scaffolding: Also known as mobile scaffolding, this type comes with wheels or casters, allowing for easy movement and adjustment. It is excellent for projects that require frequent repositioning.

d. Aerial Lifts: While not strictly scaffolding, aerial lifts, such as cherry pickers or scissor lifts, offer an alternative solution for elevated work platforms.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing Scaffolding

Before making a scaffolding purchase, several key factors should be carefully evaluated to ensure the safety and efficiency of the equipment for your specific project requirements.

a. Project Scope: Determine the height and size of the structure to be worked on, as well as the number of workers who will be on the scaffolding simultaneously. These considerations will help you select the appropriate scaffolding type and load capacity.

b. Material Quality: Look for scaffolding made from high-quality materials, such as aluminum or steel, as they offer better durability and longevity. Stainless steel is particularly suitable for outdoor projects due to its corrosion resistance.

c. Safety Standards and Compliance: Ensure that the scaffolding you choose adheres to industry safety standards and regulations. Look for certification labels to confirm compliance with safety requirements.

d. Ease of Assembly: Choose scaffolding systems that are easy to assemble and disassemble. Simplifying the setup process will save time and minimize the risk of errors during construction.

e. Height Adjustability: If your project involves varying heights, opt for scaffolding systems with adjustable height features. This flexibility ensures better adaptability to different project stages.

f. Mobility: For projects requiring frequent relocation of the scaffolding, consider mobile or rolling scaffolding options for easy transportation.

g. Accessories and Add-ons: Check for additional accessories like guardrails, toe boards, and outriggers to enhance safety and productivity during work.

h. Budget: While it's important to invest in quality scaffolding, balance your needs with your budget constraints to make a cost-effective decision.

Safety Guidelines and Best Practices

Safety should always be a top priority when working with scaffolding. To ensure the well-being of workers and prevent accidents, follow these essential safety guidelines:

a. Training: Ensure that all workers are properly trained in scaffolding assembly, usage, and dismantling. Regular refresher courses should be conducted to reinforce safety practices.

b. Inspection: Perform daily inspections of the scaffolding before each workday to check for any damage or potential hazards. Immediately address any issues found during the inspection.

c. Load Capacity: Never exceed the maximum load capacity of the scaffolding. Factor in the combined weight of workers, tools, and materials to avoid overloading.

d. Stability: Ensure that the scaffolding is erected on stable and level ground. Use base plates, leveling jacks, or screw jacks to stabilize uneven surfaces.

e. Guardrails and Toe Boards: Install guardrails on all open sides of the scaffolding platform and toe boards to prevent tools and materials from falling.

f. Fall Protection: Workers should wear personal fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards, while working on scaffolding at heights.

g. Weather Conditions: Avoid working on scaffolding during adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds, heavy rain, or thunderstorms, as they can compromise safety.

h. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance to inspect, repair, and replace any damaged components of the scaffolding.

Conclusion

Purchasing scaffolding for construction projects requires careful consideration of various factors, such as the project scope, safety standards, material quality, and budget. By choosing the right type of scaffolding and following strict safety guidelines, you can ensure a secure and efficient work environment for your workers.

Always prioritize safety, invest in quality equipment, and adhere to best practices to maximize productivity and minimize the risk of accidents on the job site. With a well-chosen and properly maintained scaffolding system, your construction projects will proceed smoothly, delivering successful outcomes.

[heartmainstream]

[beefcakekinard]

I wish you would write a fic where... Tommy confronts a monster (maybe they're of his own making)

Tommy's a strong guy, physically. And he's no slouch at compartmentalizing - at filing the sludge away, locking it up until he's not thinking about it, until it doesn't even touch him anymore. He broke up with Evan a week ago and he's sealed that up so tightly he hasn't felt anything at all about it. This should be a piece of cake in comparison.

His feet still feel weighed down with lead as he steps into the hospital.

It's an odd hour of the morning between shift starts and lunch, so the lobby isn't exactly bustling. His footsteps carry in the wide open space. A woman behind the counter at the gift shop smiles at him as he passes. His own expression feels odd on his face, a frozen rictus grimace, and he hurries on before she gets the chance to start a conversation.

Tommy makes it to the elevator bank and hits the button. It's no time at all before he's in the elevator car, picking the floor he needs, and watching the doors close. The lead in his feet spreads upwards, like capillary action, finding his stomach and settling there in the pit of it. For a brief moment he doesn't know what he's doing there, in the elevator, in the hospital. He almost convinces himself to just leave and go home, but by then the doors are opening.

He follows signs down the hall into a small room with a desk, where he checks in and sits to wait in a stiff plastic chair. He isn't waiting long before a woman in a lab coat calls his name. Tommy follows her into a cold, windowless room. His entire body feels heavy now, overfull with dread as he approaches the metal table in the middle. The woman pulls back a sheet.

"Yeah," he rasps. "That's him. That's my dad."

Tommy feels - he doesn't know quite what he feels. His dad's face is ashen, lifeless; strangely distorted by its own stillness. Like it's just... collapsed, without the scaffolding of life holding it in place. Tommy's eyes instinctively skip down to his dad's hands, an old habit so deeply ingrained in him that he still can't help expecting blows, even as old as he is, as big as he is. Even though his dad is dead.

The woman says something. The awareness of another voice in the room is all that Tommy's able to process behind the sludge oozing out of its carefully constructed containment, dripping black and tarlike through the ridges and valleys of his brain. He feels like he shouldn't be breathing, between the sludge and the lead and the room occupied by his dad's dead body and unlit by the sun.

Tommy signs some forms. He moves on autopilot and the only thing he can think about is the wry little smile Evan would have given him if he'd ever said that, told him I was on autopilot and maybe Evan would have carried the joke, maybe-

Forms signed and copied, Tommy excuses himself in a haste, bursting back into the hall and tearing for the stairs. He takes them two at a time, lunging up them like he's being hunted, and once on the main floor he shoves his way through the first exterior door he can find. He manages to take two steps and lean over some bushes before he's vomiting, bile crowding up his throat and nose and forcing its way out.

As he watches it drip to the ground, he's surprised it's not black.

[mpregstuff]

Building a New Life

Giovanna, a rugged construction worker in Milan, faces a life-altering revelation when a doctor's visit uncovers his unexpected pregnancy. As he grapples with this shocking news amid the harsh realities of his traditionally masculine profession, the story explores his emotional journey, self-perception, and evolving relationship with his partner, Juliana. With themes of identity, masculinity, and impending parenthood woven throughout, Giovanna is thrust into a world of excitement and uncertainty that challenges societal norms and personal expectations.

In the heart of Milan, where towering cranes meet historical architecture, Giovanna had always embodied the grit and determination of a construction worker. At 28, he was strong, rugged, and deeply entrenched in a world where masculinity was not just celebrated but expected. Day in and day out, he was surrounded by the raucous voices of his colleagues—men who measured strength in sweat and bravado, who wielded their tools with confidence. Yet beneath this tough exterior, a softer side lingered, tucked away, a remnant of vulnerability that only his partner, Juliana, had ever glimpsed. As Friday approached, Giovanna found himself more fatigued than usual, his stomach roiling in ways that felt foreign and alarming. Dismissing the signs as mere stress from the job—like the huge construction project looming over him—he donned his work boots, hoping to power through another day. But during lunch, as he sat surrounded by laughter and banter, a wave of nausea washed over him, rendering his appetite nonexistent. Confused and concerned, he decided to make an appointment with the doctor, a choice he had never considered in his life. The doctor's office was surprisingly sterile, and as he sat in the waiting room, the gravity of the situation clawed at his mind. What was he even doing here? The thought echoed ominously as he scrolled aimlessly through his phone, trying to distract himself. He felt out of place—too soft for the graying walls and clinical atmosphere. However, it was a script he had to follow; there was something more than just muscle and sweat weighing down on him.

He could no longer brush aside the signs. When the doctor entered and delivered the news, the weight of reality crashed upon him like a cascading tool belt from a scaffolding ledge. Pregnancy. His pregnancy. The word echoed in his mind, transforming from abstract thought into a palpable reality. He felt excitement bubbling up within, but it was underscored by an overwhelming wave of anxiety. How could this be? In a world that reinforced strict gender roles, this was an immense deviation from the norm, a conundrum that left him reeling. Returning to their apartment felt surreal. Juliana was the first person he saw, her radiant smile unraveling into confusion when she noticed the look on his face. “What is it, love?” she asked, setting the grocery bags down, her brow furrowing. In that moment, he realized how deep their bond was; he could lean on her now more than ever. But how could he share this revelation with her, the fear enveloping him, threatening to consume their burgeoning family? A swirl of emotions battered him as he captured Juliana's attention, trying to articulate the complexity of what lay within him. “I’m... I'm pregnant,” he finally managed, his voice shaking. For a brief moment, time halted. He could hear the blood pounding in his ears, the magnitude of the statement absorbing the space around them. Juliana’s face transformed, her eyes wide in disbelief. But then, there was elation—the kind that spread warmth through him. She rushed over, enveloping him in a tight embrace, whispering sweet reassurances that blended with his own chaotic thoughts. Together, they could prepare for this new chapter, yet lingering uncertainties haunted Giovanna’s mind. How would he reconcile his identity as a man, a construction worker, a partner, and now, a parent? Would his colleagues accept this evolving identity? Would he? As they sat together on the couch, a rush of emotions cascaded within him. From the thrill of impending fatherhood to the anxiety of societal expectations, Giovanna's mind raced with unanswered questions. Would their relationship withstand the pressures of an unexpected pregnancy? What would this mean for their future as a couple? Each thought collided with the next, creating a cacophony of excitement and dread. He envisioned pediatricians’ visits, prenatal appointments, how to navigate the whispers in the construction yard when they discovered the truth. Would he be seen differently? Would he still command the respect of his peers? Time seemed to stretch as they found solace in each other’s arms, immersed in a swirl of loud thoughts and silent fears. Deep down, Giovanna craved the joy of becoming a parent, but the road ahead was unclear, fraught with obligations he had yet to fathom. The sun cast long shadows over the city as he left the doctor’s office, the warm light illuminating the bustling streets, each face a reminder of the world that continued to dance around him without a hint of his life-altering secret. The excitement started to intertwine with anxiety as he traversed the urban landscape. As he walked, visions of baby names, cribs, and shared future dances leaped into his consciousness and momentarily overshadowed his fears. Yet deep inside, he knew this was only the beginning of a long, emotion-filled journey. As the evening approached, the delicate balance of elation and uncertainty settled within him and hung like an ever-present fog, promising new challenges. He had so much to unravel and understand about himself—and perhaps, just perhaps, it would lead him to a version of himself he never knew existed. With a feeling of determination sparked within him, Giovanna stepped towards a new reality, ready to confront whatever the future held.

Read the rest on https://www.mpregstuff.com/story/202501102851112743

[hometoursandotherstuff]

You know how I love offbeat properties and I found this seller's For-Sale-By-Owner ad on Zillow. He started building the home in 1969, in Eureka, California, and it's been under construction for 43 years! It's a French ornamented cathedral Gothic, with all custom ornaments, molds and scaffolding techniques. This mansion is based on Newport, Rhode Island style and spirit from the 19th Century.

This is what it's supposed to look like - The Vision.

And, in 43 yrs., this is what he's done so far. He's asking $4.5M. Now, he has been living in it, so you can live in the finished part. The house is being sold furnished, and what furnishings! Read what he wrote about them below:

"Also for sale here are 1500 sq. ft of the ultimate grade palatial antique Italian marquetry, veneer and solid wood furniture, ranging from console tables and mirrors; 10 different sizes of round antique tables, up to a 12' x 6' museum-piece dining table, various rare cabinets, marquetry, upholstered chairs, couches, china and other cabinets, solid gold (plated) grandfather clock and two huge antique chandeliers, all worth over $300k on the market now and arguably TWICE that!"

This outer door is amazing.

Here's a gargoyle and other ornamentation that still has to go on the house.

But, look at this - it says the exterior designs are ready for installation "when the lawsuit is over." So, the property is involved in a lawsuit, too? (Check the blog - I found the lawsuit papers and posted it.)

There's so much stuff here.

This room is done. It must be a ballroom. I don't know what to make of all this. This looks like the Romanoff's place.

This must be a music room. There's a harpsicord and a harp in here.

Look at these walls. He says the walls are hand done- are these the actual walls?

The walls are hand painted according to the description.

Here's a mantel waiting to be installed.

This is going to be the kitchen.

The gold double sink.

I don't know if this is an old picture of the original inspiration for this home, but it's definitely a representation of the home itself.

This is an amazing fireplace.

Another beautiful fireplace.

He's using the bedroom, but it's not finished.

I'm disappointed in this bathroom. Maybe it's just temporary?

He has a lot of photos of the furniture and these are really primo antiques. So, this would be one of the dining rooms.

This looks like a brand new bedroom set. Looks like a furniture store that used to be near me called Roma Furniture.

The chandelier in the ballroom that he says is included in the sale.

One of the sitting rooms.

Nice inlaid table.

There's a lot of furniture. If you want to see it all, click on the link b/c he's posted 100 photos. But, I'm very confused.

The property measures 6 acres and there are "massive fall color and rose gardens, 20,000 plantings, plus 10,000 daffodil, iris, lily, etc. Bulbs are spread over 6 acres, still there mostly, alive and colorful. Plus, hundreds of valuable landscaping sculptures are included."

[starshipsofstarlord]

Disease

Summary: Rafe hurts Y/N for the first time

Pairing: Rafe Cameron x reader

Warnings: domestic abuse, violence, abuse, please don’t read of this is triggering for you, abuse aftercare

There was a coil of hatred wrapping around every inch of his insides, Rafe couldn’t understand why the mischief and chaos that his little sister and her pathetic friends was impacting the stability of control that he had upon his own actions. He was rash, he was scared, he was shaken and he was a kook, the most important breed of humans in the outer banks. His white collared shirt looked ghostly against his furious red complexion as he mulled over all of the repercussions that his actions had caused; he had disappointed Ward, his father, for having killed the officer, and his parent was concerned that his only son was veering off the rails.

But that was clearly absurd, he was fine, or so Rafe told himself, respectively, attempting to drill that conviction into his staggering mind. The sun beamed accusingly down at him as he sat on the balcony, his knee anxiously jittering as overthought crowded the tenancy of his brain. It was painful and undeniably loud within the centre console of all his muscles, disturbing his perception of present reality. There was so much pain, so much trauma, running through his rich blooded veins, he was searching for loop holes, for opportunities to weaken his pogue enemies that threatened the fortune that he stole and uncovered from their labour weathered hands.

Concern fatigued his partner whom spied upon his jittery relaxation from the other side of the doors, behind the glass, her body laid against the expensive sheets as her head tilted in thoughtless worry. There was nobody that could fathom why she had affection for the broken young man, and perhaps if she were in their scuffed shoes she would understand their contemplation of opinion, however Rafe was gentle with her. He treated her like the head of a bloomed flower with frail petals, and thus he only admired her appearance than plucked at the weak points of her exterior. That was until he stormed back into the room, scaffolded with the qualms that belittled his capacity of thought, and slammed the door, making the opaque glass tremor from the force.

Y/N’s body jolted from the unexpected clash of Rafe’s own undermined temper, her pulse formidably sparking from the belittling panic that her natural beauty instincts inflicted upon her. He was red in the face as he looked anywhere than at her cowering expression, his neck was trembling as the pulse within it coaxed him to feel the burning of his rage through his angry and red veins. This wasn’t like him, Y/N tried to convince herself, but she knew the truth - it was, this was the darkest part of himself that he vowed to hide her from ever seeing. And now here the monster was before her very eyes, containing an explosion of chaos that pined for violent action.

All was fiercely intense, until a sound broke through the contagious silence. It was the ringing of an incoming call that unravelled it’s echo from within the sheets of the bed, gauging Rafe’s attention as his neck all but snapped in her direction. There was a sense of suspicion that exploited a reflection in the pools of his acidic irises, and thus he began striding towards the position of his wavering lover, making her tremble like a leaf in the bemused wind. Y/N wasn’t aware of who was calling her, nor did the explicit identity of whom cross her mind as Rafe’s feet trudged menacingly across the carpet, his hands posing a blistering grip on her out-turned ankles as he emotionlessly tugged his girlfriend to the edge of his bed.

“Who’s calling you y/n?” There was no affection within his tone, it was straight and robotic as he glowered down at Y/N, of whom was containing her whimpers through biting her lip. Nobody was supposed to speak to her in this untimely and brash manner; Y/N was the kook princess, and if any one spoke to her with such unpleasantness, they would have to deal with Rafe, whom posed one of the highest reputations thanks to his father in Figure Eight. But it was Rafe himself that was conducting this tactile lack of respect to his own lovely highness, which heavily complicated all of the factors.

She was too petrified to speak, nobody had the unflattering nerve to address her like so, and here her handsome lover was, threatening her with the sharp glint within his eyes. “I said who’s calling you? I want you to answer me darling!” A haphazard squeal escaped from Y/N’s throat as he applied more pressure upon the bone of her ankle, inflicting a batch of physical pain upon her. It was the first time that he had harmed her with his own hand, and unfortunately that one tight squeeze wasn’t the last infliction of this repulsive occasion. Crystal tears trickled vulnerably down the girl’s face as she squeezed her eyes closed, wishing not to visualise her Rafe as the commencer of her writhing pain.

“I-I don’t know. Just let me look.” At last his grip released some pressure whence the delicate whisper of her words reached his ears and comforted him with an eventual answer. It was much of a relief, and a breathless sigh surpassed the maze of Y/N’s tight lungs as she blindly reached for her cellular device, grasping it with a hand that prayed for this frightening encounter to be close to its end. The thought of just that soothed her, that was until she glanced at the caller ID, which made her stomach drop by blistering miles. Sarah Cameron. If Y/N told Rafe the truth which was that his own flesh and blood was attempting to contact his pillow princess then the scenario would be even uglier than it already was, but she couldn’t lie to his hazed face, that would only make him angrier. “It’s Sarah.”

That was the rise and fall of the moment. Rafe did nothing, until he acted out of his own self esteem problems and bruised Y/N’s face with his large palm which collided against her cheekbone, only promoting more tears to fall from her self pitying eyes. “You’re working against me with those stupid pogues, aren’t you?” An array of similar accusations were pivoted at his girlfriend after each strike of his hand which soon morphed into an intentionally brutal fist. She wasn’t working with the pogues, not in the slightest, but Y/N had no will to agree with the things Rafe suspected in the world, she already had a bloody and swollen nose, a blooming purple eye and a shadowed cheek, and she wanted no more of that. He had hit her and hit her, whilst she lay there limp, refusing to fight within his one sided battle.

He wasn’t well, she was aware of that, he was infected by paranoia and the disastrous genes of narcissism, and those features among many more were turning him into a monster. She wanted to save him from the hole that he was digging for himself in outer banks, but it appeared as though he was dragging her into the shallow grave with him. As he held a washcloth against the plump injuries that were cast below the surface of her skin and reflected upon it, she winced, but she felt somehow safe in his bloody fists that were cleansing her appearance of his bad deeds to the best of his ability. Rafe was trying and that was all that mattered; he tried to make his father proud, he tried to make Y/N happy and most importantly, he tried to never hurt Y/N again. No one on the outside were aware if his attempts were unsuccessful, that was until Sarah received a returning phone call from Y/N after some time had passed.

[shallowseeker]

Could you please do one of your play-by-plays with Dean and Cas fight in 11.03 The Bad Seed?

I have a partial that's embedded into the giant freeform Samwena post! (scroll a thousand years, and it's at the very bottom under "Last Bit")

I think... if you don't mind, I'll talk about the symbols in the set here, since the play-by-play is a bit embedded in the Samwena meta already? If that's not what you wanted, hit me again!

///

High Ground, low ground, and meeting in the middle

This scene is steeped in symbolism, illustrating the connection and contrast between Cas and Dean. The motifs surrounding them visually embody their respective struggles and personalities while framing their journey toward mutual understanding and, as Dean maybe views it, forgiveness and equilibrium.

///

Cas:

Creepy blue-eyed mask, brown-and-tan-bear, imposing larger-than-life soldier, tall red scaffolding.

Tall "Heavenly" scaffolding

Symbolism: The scaffolding represents Heaven and the heavy burden of Cas’s celestial duties. It symbolizes the high expectations placed upon him. The responsibilities always seem to loom over him. (We often see him pictured with skyscraper paintings for the same motif.)

Fragility: Scaffolding is both strong and precarious, reflecting Cas’s internal struggle—holding others up even as his own foundations are unstable.

Juxtaposition: Its towering nature contrasts with Dean’s low "valley" of stacked pallets, visually framing their dynamic as one of opposites that complement each other.

Creepy blue-eyed "Jimmy Novak" mask

Uncanny familiarity: The mask evokes Jimmy Novak, Cas’s vessel, but it's wearing a wicked expression. It’s a haunting reminder of Cas’s sacrifices and the cost of his mission, as well as the evil he's committed in the name of Heaven.

Puppet symbolism: Paired with the attack dog spell, it reflects the manipulation Cas has faced, being lured into false choices by others. Metatron’s schemes, Sam's pressure to save Dean his way, and now Rowena’s attack dog spell aimed to mold Cas into a tool for their ambitions.

Contrast: Where the mask is lifeless and haunting, Cas’s actions—falling towards Dean—are full of life and vulnerability, reclaiming his agency in their shared connection.

The brown-and-tan teddy

Overcoat resemblance: The coat evokes Cas’s steadfast loyalty, symbolizing his commitment to the "lower" human family over the lofty ideals of higher corporations or celestial orders. It represents his role as a protector and provider—a fatherly duty he has embraced with quiet resolve. Beneath its stoic, utilitarian exterior lies a softer, more vulnerable core, reminding us that his dedication to humanity is not just a role but a choice rooted in compassion and love.

Truck connection: The brown color also ties to Cas’s truck, a practical and grounded symbol of his efforts to navigate the human world. It suggests Cas's willingness to carry burdens alongside Dean.

Heart: The teddy bear symbolizes Cas’s emotions—a visual representation of his big heart. "Too much heart was always Castiel's problem." Interestingly, the bear also ties him to Mary, Dean, and Jack, who each have their own connections to this symbol. Together, they form a thread of resilience and affection, woven through their shared stories and struggles.

Toy soldier behind the fence

Imposing presence: The tall toy soldier is standing at attention, evoking discipline, duty, and resolve, embodying Cas’s role as Heaven’s soldier and champion.

Fence as separation: The soldier stands behind a barrier, symbolizing the divide between Cas’s celestial obligations and his desire for personal connection. It reflects his struggle to reconcile these two worlds, the tension between divine orders and his own choices. The fence is not only a literal barrier but also a metaphor for the isolation Cas feels as he struggles with the roles imposed on him by Heaven, feeling often like an attack dog behind a dog fence, especially in the face of manipulation like Rowena's attack dog spell.

Contradiction: The rigid soldier contrasts with Cas’s current vulnerability, highlighting how far he has come from being Heaven’s unquestioning weapon to someone who prioritizes free will and love.

///////////////////

Dean:

Panda bear, trash bag, supporting shipping pallet, "low" valley

Shipping pallets ("low valley")

Grounded symbolism: The stacked pallets behind Dean represent a low and grounded point, reflecting his pragmatic, earthy nature. While Cas’s scaffolding reaches upwards, Dean's structure is rooted to earth and his newly restored humanity. Both the scaffolding and the palettes exist to support others—a foundation and a framework, designed not for their own glory but to uplift and enable those around them. Whether holding the weight or providing the colors, they are essential yet humble, serving quietly so others can stand tall or shine brightly.

Contrast: The pallets create a "valley" beneath the towering scaffolding, visually framing their dynamic: Dean grounded on earth, always supporting his family at the expense of his own happiness, Cas's connection to Heaven, carrying out Heaven's missions at the expense of his own emotions.

False choices: Just as pallets are tools for transporting heavy loads, they symbolize Dean's emotional labor. The false choices imposed on him—becoming Cain’s heir to the Mark or succumbing to Crowley’s manipulation to get ahead in Hell—tried to burden him, framing his suffering as necessary to support others' ambitions. (And often taking away his agency through dishonesty, disinhibition, violation, and manipulation...)

Black-and-white panda

Symbol of duality: The panda’s stark black-and-white design mirrors Dean’s struggle with his inner contradictions—his tough exterior versus his deeply caring heart.

Dean's heart: Like Cas’s teddy bear, the panda hints at forcefully suppressed emotions. It represents Dean’s suppressed desires for simplicity and peace, often overshadowed by his heavy responsibilities to others.

Caretaker role: Pandas are famously “lazy” but also intensely nurturing. This parallels Dean’s role in the group: someone who masks his nurturing instincts behind a gruff exterior, often doing the “heavy emotional lifting” further embodied by the garbage bag nearby.

Garbage bag

Emotional labor: The garbage bag signifies the emotional burdens Dean has carried, often for the sake of others. He cleans up messes, both figuratively and literally, reflecting his tendency to internalize pain to protect others.

Self-worth: Dean’s bag highlights the emotional weight he shoulders for those around him, often suppressing his own feelings as he prioritizes the well-being of others. Dean’s bag represents internalized responsibility, highlighting his struggle with self-worth and his tendency to see himself as expendable. :(

///

Coercive roles: Overcome by Rowena’s attack dog spell, Cas’s violent actions against Dean reflect how external forces have repeatedly manipulated him—first by Metatron, then pressure by Sam, and now by Rowena. His motifs emphasize the imposed expectations of Heaven, his vulnerability, and his struggle to reclaim agency. Dean’s recent history with the Mark of Cain echoes Cas’s experience. Both were enticed by false choices that appeared necessary or inevitable—first with Crowley manipulating Dean to get him to take out Abaddon, then Dean being force-fit to Cain’s parallels—all engineered while damaging his free will. Each was a tool, trapped in narratives designed by others to fit their ambitions, often at the cost of autonomy. Dean in particular is framed as a support character. Dean is the one who defeats Abbadon, but Crowley takes the credit and at first relegates to Dean as a side accessory in his own Kingly narrative.

Agency (temporarily) restored: In trying to free Dean and restore both his free will and decision-making faculties, Cas lost his own, becoming overwhelmed by the attack dog spell while trying to follow Sam’s coercive plan. (Despite voicing his misgivings and pushing Sam to come clean, Cas found himself bound to the plan he couldn’t fully support... and he suffered the consequences for it.)

In this moment in 11x03, Dean rushes to save Cas, and Dean and Cas are temporarily broken free from their imposed molds, reclaiming their right to define themselves. The act of reaching for each other becomes a shared rejection of the constraints that others tried to impose on them.

Unfortunately for them, this victory is only temporary—an uneasy re-establishment of equilibrium. The cycle will inevitably repeat, but next time, it will be Lucifer who claims Cas's free will, as Cas sacrifices it once again in a desperate attempt to save Dean, whose free will is now beholden to/enslaved to Amara.

[anotherhumaninthisworld]

Abbe Proyart talking shit about his former students compilation

(With the exception of student Robespierre, who he spoke so much shit about you can make a whole post only about it)

Camille Desmoulins, Robespierre's warmest friend and most ardent advocate, was the son of a Lieutenant-General of the Bailliage of Guise in Picardy. Appointed as scholar by the Chapter of Laon at the College of Louis-le-Grand, he completed his studies, if not with distinction, at least with some success. Although from then on he wrote his scholastic compositions well, he spoke very heavily and stammered in speech. He had an ugly and repulsive exterior, a black complexion, and something sinister about his eyes. He had nevertheless announced in his early youth the double emulation of work and virtue; but, disturbed in his higher classes by vicious comrades, he abjured piety, and soon showed himself a more bitter enemy than even those who had driven him away from it. From then on, a muddled spirit, surly and eloquent, he made himself odious to all his fellow students, and no longer had a single friend among them. We then saw him, son of nature and ungrateful disciple, displaying all the feelings of a bad heart. He made his debut at the bar with a plea against his father, whom he pretended to oblige to furnish him in Paris with an interview which exceeded his faculties. He never forgave his Masters for the efforts they had made to correct his budding vices. In the time of the Revolution, he was still cruelly resentful of one of them, on the occasion of a close encounter fifteen years earlier. “I will never forgive him, he said, for having told me one day that I would mount the scaffold.” However, if the horoscope wasn’t flattering, it was nonetheless verified. We shall see later how, still believing himself to be the friend of Robespierre, he was rewarded for his revolutionary labors by his friend. La vie et les crimes de Robespierre, surnommé Le Tyran, depuis sa naissamce jusqu’à sa mort(1795) by Le Blond de Neuvéglise (abbé Proyart), page 93

Fréron, in his youth, showed a gloomy and defimulated character, especially near his masters. He announced rather few talents, and no will to cultivate them; he was also cited as a rare example when speaking of laziness and indolence. He was one of those indifferent to religion to whom justice is done by always suspecting their morals. Coming out from the college, he walked his impoverished existence for a long time on the pavement of the Capital, a burden equally incumbent upon both his family and Abbé Royou, his protector and brother of the estimable Madame Fréron. Ibid, page 90

Duport-du Tertre, born in Paris, of a not very wealthy family, after having done fairly good studies at the College of Louis-le-Grand, became a lawyer, and got a certain reputation, above all, for probity and justice. He was of a gentle and honest character, although a little cold. He loved work and solitude. His conduct at the College had always been good; but of a wisdom more philosophical than religious. He was not born to be a scoundrel, and it cannot be said that he was; but he had not enough religion to cling to, in a slippery step, to the great principles which it enshrines, and he abandoned them. As Constitutional Minister, he tried to serve the Constitution and the King; and, without doing anything useful for the King or for the Constitution, he could not escape the guillotine. It had been less by any particular affection than at the request of his old college comrades whom Duport-du Tertre had endeavored to make known to Robespierre, whom he knew little of himself. Robespierre, in return for the disinterested zeal he had shown him on his arrival in Paris, worked harder than any other Jacobin to make him suspect and determine his execution. Ibid, page 85-86

Le Brun, known in his youth under the name of Abbé Tondu, was from Noyon. Provided by the Chapter of this City with a scholarship assigned to young clerics, he found himself a contemporary of Robespierre at the College of Louis-le-Grand. He had made less of a sensation than him in his humanities, but showed more talent in philosophy. He then bore an extraordinary depth of timidity, which he retained something of his whole life. He was one of those soft and easy characters who, having neither the boldness of crime nor the courage of virtue, become what circumstances and societies that surround them make them into. The Abbé Tondu, who liked neither his estate nor his name, left both at the same time, and called himself Le Brun, after his mother. Leaving the college, he obtained at the Observatory one of the Places paid by the King to young men who had a marked inclination for Mathematics. The bad companies having thrown him into licentiousness, he pledged himself to it. […] The tottering Minister tried in vain to rely on his old liaisons with Robespierre: Robespierre no longer knew as a friend the one who could also have been friend of a man whose pride had always revolted his own. Le Brun did not cause the death of the King; but, like Dumouriez, he had the cowardice to consent to it; and, like him, he truly became its accomplice, while doing nothing of all that he ought to have done to prevent it, or to provoke vengeance. Ibid, page 87-88

Noël, born under the name Dumouchel to poor parents, had received, like Robespierre, the gratuitous education of the poor. Student first at the College des Grassins, then at that of Louis-le-Grand; after rather brilliant successes in the distribution of the University Prizes, he was made quarter master, and then professor, at the College of Louis-le-Grand. This sudden passage, from extreme poverty to the last term of ambition among the young masters of the university, turned his head. He had little religion, he became impious. At the beginning of the Revolution, his sentiments, expressed in a journal of which he had made himself the editor, earned him a post as clerk in the war office, and then a secret mission on the part of the Jacobins in a foreign court. Friend of Camille Desmoulins, the latter had introduced him to Robespierre when he arrived in Paris for the Estates-General. Robespierre, although welcomed and celebrated by Noël, had conceived against him a fund of aversion, because he had obtained more constant successes than him at the University, and because Camille Desmoulins never ceased to exalt his talents. He spared him at first as a proponent useful to his views, then fell out with him, and then lost him as soon as he found the occasion. Ibid, page 86-87

It is again from this school that came two low servants of these man-tigers, and the worthy adjudans of their villainy: the name of one was Sijas, that of the other Pilot. Sijas had obtained, from his college comrade Robespierre, the employment of confidence of overseeing the massacres of the guillotine in Paris; and Pilot, exercising the same Commission in Lyon, wrote to Robespierre that the pleasure of seeing the Lyonnais having their throats cut restored his health. Louis XVI détrôné d’être Roi, ou tableau des causes de la Révolution française et de l’ébranlement de tous les trônes (1803) by Abbé Proyart, cited in Le collège Louis-le-Grand, séminaire de la Révolution (1913) by H. Monin.

And some of his fellow teachers too…

None of his masters contributed so much to the growth of the republican virus fermenting in his (Robespierre’s) soul than his Professor of Rhetoric. An enthusiastic admirer of the heroes of ancient Rome, M. Hérivaux, nicknamed The Roman by his students, thought that Robespierre’s personality had a strong Roman physiognomy. He praised him, cajoled him unceasingly, sometimes even congratulated him very seriously on this precious similarity. Robespierre, no less seriously, favored compliments, and was grateful to bear the soul of a Roman, be it the atrocious soul of a parricidal Brutus, or that of a conspiratorial Catiline.   La vie et les crimes de Robespierre… (1795) page 46-47

One day, however, a prefect, suddenly opening a door, finds him (Robespierre) on the commode reading a very nasty pamphlet. Caught in flagrante delicto, Robespierre thought himself lost; and, forgetting his natural pride, falls at the feet of the Arbiter of his fate and comes down to the humblest supplications. The Master with whom he had to deal was neither inflexible nor fervent in Morale. He was a man who had been heard more than once to exclaim among the young people: "Long live liberty, my friends: far from us the hypocrisy.” It was the Abbé Audrein, who since deserved, by his apostasy, to become the collegue of Robespierre in the Assembly of Factious, where he still sits. With such a judge, the affair of the bad book was civilized without difficulty, and did not even come to the knowledge of the other Masters of the House. Ibid, page 37-38

Dumouchel, son of a poor Peasant from Picardy, would not have found within his family any resource for his education: the Sanctuary and the charity of the Faithful paid all the expense. Scholar of the Community of Ste. Barbe, he entered the College of Louis-le-Grand in quality of a quarter master. He fortified himself to go and teach Rhetoric at Rhodez, from where he was called back to Paris to occupy a chair at the College de la Marche. The Abbé Royou, to whom he paid court, had employed him, for a time, for the drafting of certain unimportant articles of his journal, which he had no leisure to deal with himself. A fairly ritual appearance, a supple character, a lot of talk, a little literature, and many more ambitious pretensions had given Dumouchel a certain reputation among that swarm of deplorable subjects which filled the Colleges of Paris; and, by their votes, he found himself Rector of the University at the time of the holding of the Estates-General. Hiding his unbridled ambition and his irreligion under the mask of the most complete devotion to the respectable Archbishop of this Capital, he united the voices of the Clergy for the Deputation. Scarcely had the Hypocrite been in possession of the title he aspired to, than, abandoning the sacred interests which had been entrusted to him, he formed an alliance with Robespierre, whom he at first advocated, and of whom he was later advocated, so much so that the Jacobins of Paris, judging him worthy of the Episcopat, sent his name to the Club of the town of Nismes, with the injunction to make the subject known to the electors of the department, as the one who suited them and whom they should name. All the Catholic Electors, with the exception of two, having refused to cooperate in the crime of an intrusion by Eve that the Protestant Electors, less delicate, assembled, gave their votes to the one whom the Jacobins had designated for them; and Dumouchel, proclaimed Constitutionally Catholic Bishop that, by fifteen Electors only, of which thirteen were Protestants, said goodbye to his friend Robespierre, and went to install himself in the Episcopal Palace of Nismes, which soon, as we know, was defiled by the most scandalous Scenes. Ibid, page 83-85

[awrkive]

sorry but what ‘new arc’ does mean? im sorry im bad english and eng slang

also i love the part🤍 jk was so protective over her! hope he will comfort her and help in future with this asshole

happy birthday, my best wishes for you! you’re the best in here 🩵

thank you sweets 💗 an arc is just a bunch of events in a story that can be grouped into "one". for instance, nb has Four Major Arcs (as per my outline), and we're currently still in the first one. as for now, the 1st-13th chapters are still in the arc of nb jk and oc being "friends" or platonic, still tiptoeing around their "feelings", still navigating their relationship with each other. the second major arc (which i think is roughly 3 chapters away(?)) will be.. so to speak.. different. and evolved 🤭 its basically a bunch of chapters that you can group together, relating to the state of the characters. there are also what i consider as mini arcs in nb tho, and theres a lot, but one example would be that in the first to fourth chapters, oc and jk are still oblivious about each other's backgrounds– thats mini arc 1, and in the following ones, they start discovering the truths, which i then consider as mini arc 2.

anyways tldr; an arc is just like-chapters that you can group together as one "arc". think of a building a house: your goal is to erect the whole thing fully furnished with the interior and exterior, that is now the main "plot" in story terms. but you cant go to it immediately without taking the necessary steps first. you have to build the foundation first (arc 1), scaffoldings (arc 2), wrap it with the exterior materials (arc 3), then finish off the interior with necessary furnish (arc 4). but even tho theyre diff steps (arcs), they make up the whole thing in the end!!

also thank u for the birthday wish!! 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼

[scaffoldexpress]

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[unsoundedcomic]

Didn't I hear on here a while back that the khert itself is pretty much a 'program' and that 'program' is stored in something equivalent to a mfing HARDDRIVE?! Like, what? Like, where is it? Has anyone in-world (not the cast) FOUND it? Wtf happens if they fuck around with it?

We often compare pymary to software and the khert to either the operating system that manages it, or the hardware it all runs on. It's a good way to think of it.

An educated wright will generally tell you that the khert isn't stored anywhere; everywhere is the khert. It's the scaffolding upon which reality hangs; the field upon which all the Aspects are strewn and Materials instantiate. You or I might easily call it another dimension or another plane of existence but I think that makes it sound too far away or disconnected. The fact is that it and continent Kasslyne are one and the same, and the Kasslynians are operating inside of it.

When a character "enters" the khert, what's really happening is they're experiencing the khert in a different way than they typically do. They're outside the software/program/app. They're walking around the desktop.

A theologian would tell you that there is something even further beyond this; an Outside of the khert. This is sometimes called the Great Unsounded. It's where the gods can be found, if you believe in that sort of thing. From that exterior perspective, what does the khert look like? Where is it "stored?" Well, the Gefendur gods think it's inside Fat Yerta's round belly.

[rainworldroompoll]

Pick Your Favorite Rain World Room, Day 153.2

This is not single elimination! Every room with at least 10.0% vote will move on to the next round.

There is a hidden slugcat in one of the rooms (they can be in any color). If u can see it comment or reblog with where they are and if u are first, u get a cookie!

Credit for game screenshots goes to: Rain World Interactive Map, Rain World Wiki and me

Congratulations for day 152.2 winners!

[calling4glaives]

Guard Post: Citadel Steps

The last guard location we’re looking at (Nyx Week is next week, folks!) is the Citadel itself, where Nyx is posted for the signing. We won’t be looking at the whole Citadel (that is far too much for this post) just the exterior portions where Nyx and other guards are posted.

[[Unless otherwise noted, these screenshots were taken by @starjunco. All images have ID in the Alt]]

There are two passageways being guarded here - the gate and the Citadel itself. Nyx starts at the top of the stairs into the formal entrance to the Citadel. These steps are hardly accessible, so perhaps those with difficulty walking them (like, say, Noctis in his wheelchair after the attack) likely use alternative entrances - either around the side or below the courtyard level.

There appears to be two guards at each landing of the stairs, here, and one at the top. The lower four are Guardsmen like Petra, but Nyx seems to be the only Glaive we see on duty here.

A quick look at the area Nyx is directly posted to, showing off some interesting architectural features. There is a mix of modern and ancient - stone and glass, gold lanterns and dark columns. The knotwork and star medallions are quite interesting, as is the glimpse of the middle part of the Lucian Star above the doorway into the building itself. Other than that glimpse, everything here is laid out in strict verticals and horizontals - more greco-roman references, perhaps, especially with the Ionic capital atop the columns.

We’ll follow Nyx as he paces to see glimpses of the inner plaza. From this angle you can see the temporary scaffolding erected for the large black panels on either side of the building's entrance. They resemble the backdrop for a stage, so perhaps speakers or some type of entertainment or media coverage areas are scheduled there, or they could just be blocking off access to some of the other entrances to the building. In front of Nyx you can see the centerpiece of the plaza (we’ll have a better image later, this is just for your orientation).

Nyx completes his pace across and turns, letting us see what is beside the steps. More arches here, but the geometric motifs look somewhat like the lanterns below them. That square area could be for an elevator, but is likely just a buttress for the large building given the lack of places to stop or other support.

It’s also nice to see Lucis uses handrails, though they seem very modern even in comparison to this rather modern-looking building.

Beyond, you can see the curved walls that surround this plaza. Though they seem more defensive, they are slightly reminiscent of the colonnades surrounding St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

[[From the St. Peter's Plaza wikipedia page]]

At this point, Nyx figures out Crowe’s watch and abandons his post to race back home, so we get a glimpse of the outer gate.

This gate here could technically be the “Citadel Gate” from the signs in Nyx’s neighborhood, but there hardly seems to be 3km between them, so likely this is an inner gate of some sort. There are a plethora of banners and symbols to feast your eyes upon, but we’ll point out the greenery and tables - this is likely common space for tourists and perhaps those working within the Citadel itself, so they don’t have to leave the area directly.

Though one might expect this area closest to the center of the city and its capitol to be full of historical buildings, it seems to mainly be open spaces and modern skyscrapers. Perhaps something catastrophic happened here to destroy many of them…

It would be odd how few people are here, but there are two explanations, depending on your inclination. The first is these are all vetted people allowed within this area, and thus there are fewer total and, among them, lower percentages of protesters. The second is they didn’t want to waste money on animating a larger crowd.

Aside from the tragedy of Nyx and Libertus missing each other in the somewhat sparse crowd, this is an interesting view of the rest of the Citadel area. The building in the background is perhaps the same one found in, well, Founder’s Square seen as the Glaives returned to the city at the beginning of the movie:

It is, of course, possible, that this is a common building style in Insomnia, but judging from the proximity of the Citadel behind it, it likely is the same structure. This could be the ever-elusive Citadel Gate, though it's still not quite 3km from the Citadel.

The gate here is simple but lovely. Its main identifying feature is these statues. Matching ones appear on the Citadel itself, visible through the gates. The figures appear to be feminine, and the hood and the golden belt might indicate some sort of formal role. These could be akin to the angelic figures from the hotel roof, messengers, priestesses, or (with the white and gold coloring) could represent the Oracles, though they are not usually depicted with the hood.

The elongated hexagons seem to be somewhat of a motif across this whole area, interestingly enough. A sign of the Astrals or their favor, perhaps?

As delicate and pretty as this gilded gate is, though, the road spikes indicate this is intended to be an actual part of the security, as does the massive thickness of the walls on either side.

Back inside this gate, Petra briefs the guards in the plaza before the Citadel. The citizens appear to be wearing far more white than usual - a sign of formality among non-nobility, or an appeal to the Oracle, perhaps. Or a concession to Niflheim and peace, as Aldercapt often wears white to contrast the Lucian black. Or, honestly, a concession to the heat and the black buildings and glass all around them turning the plaza into an oven.

Two guards appear to have replaced Nyx on the upper landing already, so at least there’s that. Perhaps that’s why Petra got pulled up.

This is just a cool look at his uniform.

Looking back at the now open gate from the inside as the Niffs approach. It appears to have the same design on both sides.

Nyx also missed Pruvia in the crowd, but that’s more understandable. There are also some more blond Insomnians, for your worldbuilding needs.

This lovely aerial view of the plaza shows the layout of the center area, the bridges, the sidewalks the pedestrians are standing on, and the lower level below them.

There are interesting designs visible from this angle, too. Is that red carpet always there, or was it painted/tacked down special for this event? The tiles on the first landing are also lovely, and impossible to see in other shots. Is that rectangular part just before the pyramids some sort of tomb of the unknown soldier, a king’s memorial, or some sort of plaque?

The arrows are also odd, given that Lucians drive on the right inside and outside Insomnia.

Here’s the promised look at the center of the plaza. The glass pyramids are interesting – perhaps they project light for some sort of display or show? Or just help prevent people from driving straight at the Citadel.

Beside the blurry Nyx among the crowd, if you squint you can see Aldercapt and Ardyn getting out of the car, along with their aides.

The main council members appear to have come out to greet them, though they don’t look particularly happy to be here.

Neither does Regis, looking on from the windows above. Of course, we know that to be the proper attitude for what’s to come.

But your doom is not yet set! There are still five days before Nyx Week 2023 starts! Good luck!

[norvicfiddler]

Library geography part 2

Carrying on from my previous post ...

My second difficulty in getting my head around the library layout (after being very confused by corridors) is: I can’t match the interior with the exterior as presented.

Essentially it’s a windows problem. Most of the windows we see are on the inside of the building, facing onto other windows.

See above: the yellow bordered windows (of much love) are at the inside corner of the main room, between the entryway and the side corridor. You can clearly see the windows of the middle corridor through them.

Here’s the view through the window right outside the tea nook, looking towards the rarely seen back corridor.

The only street-facing window we regularly see is the one in the main room:

This window is obstructed by scaffolding and sheeting (which gives it the wonderful sense of being part of a ship almost, I love it). Presumably this scaffolding:

All these other, inward facing, windows are opening on some sort of interior space. One which is open to the elements:

Which is where?

Not under that roof!

[chandandhillon21]

Business Operations Plan

At Chandan House Painting, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality, personalized painting services to both residential and commercial clients in Timmins, Ontario. This operations plan outlines how we manage and grow our business, ensuring excellence at every step.

Business Location and Facilities

Location:

Primary Office: We chose Timmins, Ontario, as our base of operations because it offers a balanced mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial districts. The central accessibility and growing demand for renovation services make it an ideal location for our business.

Facilities:

Office Space: Our office is a small, well-equipped space where we handle administrative tasks, meet with clients, and plan projects.

Storage: We have a secure storage area for our painting materials, supplies, and equipment.

Vehicles: Our company vehicles are essential for transporting materials and equipment to job sites efficiently.

Products and Services

Residential Painting Services:

We offer interior painting (walls, ceilings, trim), exterior painting (siding, fences, decks), and custom finishes and murals.

Commercial Painting Services:

Our services include interior office painting, exterior commercial building painting, and specialized coatings (anti-graffiti, fire-resistant).

Operational Workflow

1. Client Engagement:

Initial Contact: Clients can reach us via phone, email, or our website to inquire about our services.

Consultation: We schedule on-site consultations to assess the project scope, provide recommendations, and offer a detailed estimate.

2. Project Planning:

Quote Preparation: We provide detailed quotes, including project timelines, costs, and materials.

Contract Signing: Once the quote is approved, we prepare and sign a contract outlining the project details and terms.

3. Project Execution:

Preparation: We prepare the site by covering furniture, taping off areas, and performing any necessary surface repairs.

Painting: Our team applies paint using appropriate techniques to ensure quality and consistency.

Inspection: We conduct a thorough inspection with the client to ensure satisfaction with the completed work.

4. Project Completion:

Clean-Up: We clean the job site, removing all equipment and debris.

Final Walkthrough: We perform a final walkthrough with the client to address any concerns and ensure complete satisfaction.

Feedback: We request feedback and reviews from the client to improve our services and build testimonials.

Staffing Plan

Roles and Responsibilities:

Owner/Manager: I oversee overall business operations, manage finances, and ensure customer satisfaction.

Lead Painter: Our lead painter manages painting projects, ensures quality control, and supervises the painting staff.

Painters: Our painters execute painting tasks, maintain equipment, and follow safety protocols.

Administrative Assistant: Handles scheduling, client communication, and office management.

Recruitment and Training:

Hiring: We recruit skilled and experienced painters through job postings, referrals, and local trade schools.

Training: We provide ongoing training on the latest painting techniques, safety procedures, and customer service standards.

Suppliers and Equipment

Suppliers:

We establish relationships with local suppliers for high-quality paints, primers, and materials, such as Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore.

We source our equipment and tools from reputable suppliers to ensure reliability and efficiency.

Equipment:

Our equipment includes brushes, rollers, sprayers, drop cloths, ladders, scaffolding, and safety gear (masks, gloves, goggles).

Marketing and Sales Plan

Marketing Strategies:

Online Presence: We developed a professional website showcasing our services, project portfolio, and customer testimonials. We utilize social media platforms to engage with the community and share project updates.

Local Advertising: We distribute flyers, business cards, and brochures in the local area. We also advertise in local newspapers and community boards.

Referrals and Partnerships: We encourage satisfied clients to refer friends and family. We partner with real estate agents, interior designers, and home improvement stores for mutual referrals.

Sales Strategies:

Promotional Offers: We provide discounts for first-time clients and special offers for referrals.

Customer Loyalty: We implement a loyalty program offering discounts or perks for repeat customers.

Networking: We attend local events, trade shows, and community gatherings to network and promote our business.

Financial Management

Budgeting:

We create a detailed budget outlining projected income and expenses.

We monitor cash flow to ensure sufficient funds for ongoing operations and unexpected costs.

Pricing Strategy:

We set competitive prices based on market research, cost of materials, labor, and desired profit margins.

We offer transparent pricing with detailed quotes to build trust and avoid misunderstandings.

Accounting:

We use accounting software to manage invoices, payments, and financial records.

We hire a professional accountant for tax preparation and financial advice.

Risk Management

Insurance:

We obtain comprehensive business insurance, including liability, property, and workers' compensation.

Regulatory Compliance:

We stay informed about local regulations and ensure all our business practices comply with legal requirements.

We maintain necessary licenses and permits for operating in Timmins, Ontario.

At Chandan House Painting, we are committed to delivering exceptional painting services through careful planning, quality execution, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. This operations plan provides a roadmap for efficient management and growth, ensuring we meet our goals and exceed client expectations.

[wealmostaneckbeard]

Signalis: Obsolescence

At the heart of the Eusan Nation is the oceanic world of Vineta. On this planet there is the coastal city of Gasthofsmund. Outside the city limits is the National Museum. Something, as horrible as it is inexplicable, has happened to Gasthofsmund. You, the player, are going to try and figure out what that was. First you must choose a Replika to play as:

Obsolete Replika lines: Individuals Nickname: Original Purpose: Special Equipment/Abilities: Reasons for Production Cessation:

Taub (TB): Dove: Counter-Intelligence/Therapy: prototype bioresonance modules that allowed the user to remotely Interrogate, Punish, or Regenerate a targeted individuals neurological system: could not get along with others of it's own line. It would prioritize patient welfare over the concerns of the Nation. It was replaced by the Kolibri line.

Geier (GR): Morticia: Salvaging/Biohazard Clean-up: anti-toxin modules that enable the user to become immune to lethal substances through direct exposure although the process is painful: Replaced by new models of remote controlled salvaging vehicles. Although social towards some, it would also fill it's living quarters with biohazards to keep out unwanted visitors.

Flamingo (FMGO): Lanky: Entertainment/Athletics: Extremely long limbed and graceful, able to move through confined spaces and leap across large gaps: It had a narcissistic personality. It would take excessive risks during performances. It also required a lot of maintenance.

Metzgervogel (MZGL): Improv: Orbital infrastructure maintenance/Anti-Partisan: Easy-to-repair body armor and trained in combat/engineering: Originally developed to fulfill the same functions as the lost Elster line. The recovery of the dead LSTR unit and the restart of it's production caused the MZGL to become redundant.

The Museum

The tutorial segment and hub area is the Gasthofsmund National Museum. Which is fitting since it contains a classroom used for teaching Gestalt children. It is also filled with surprisingly useful items and material. Unfortunately, most of it is locked up and can only be accessed with employee ID cards. And the employees, mostly Gestalts with a few modern Replikas, haven't shown up to work for a few days now. As an obsolete Replika on display, you've regularly communicated with staff and know they were excited by a relic dredged up from the toxic ocean depths. Fortunately, the few areas that are accessible to you contain clues to the employee's locations as well as information about the world. The Replikas you did not pick at the start become NPCs whom you can help and may help you (or potentially betray you). Outside of the museum is a station for a self-driving bus which you can use to access other stations within the city. There's also a scenic hiking trail.

The City and it's Inhabitants

Gasthofsmund is a proper city with a trio of residential blocs (for upper, middle, and lower class citizens), a government office, engineering facility, and a well used harbor. The city rests on a sunken labyrinth, allegedly a ruined stronghold during wartime. There have always been rumors that the city is infested with an anti-nationalist cult founded on the prophecies written in the journals of dead soldiers. But several thorough investigations (by a Kolibri and a few others) have only revealed low-complexity insurgent activity.

Currently, the harbor and upper class residential bloc are thoroughly infested. Biomass oozes from structure exteriors and are fed upon by sea birds which causes them to act unpredictably. Corrupted Replikas try to conceal the growths from sunlight with tarps tied to scrap metal scaffolds. Automated security systems protect the upper class residential bloc while ignoring the masses of pulsating flesh that used to be the owners. The Harbor was home to a colony of obnoxious sea lions, that same colony has undergone a series of mutations that made them more effective hunters.

The engineering facility and the other two residential blocs are contested territory. The corrupted Replikas here move in packs while hunting for survivors and material. Any Gestalts you encounter are immobilized for one reason or another, some of them you can rescue. There are abandoned supplies, blast marks, and other signs of violence scattered though the zones, reflecting the desperate conflict between the survivors and corrupted replikas.

The government office was designed to protect the mayor, bureaucrats, and select civilians from riots and other disasters. The last mayor was a gestalt woman named Greta Han and she became a rotting meat-tree in her home. The survivors within the office are safe thanks to trip wire traps, barricades and improvised weapons which keep out the corrupted. The leaders of the group is a Gestalt safety inspector named Martin Zhow and an ADLER Replika (serial number 2342). The others are an exhausted STAR, a frustrated scientist, a pair of EULAs who are trying their best to keep an orphaned gestalt child happy, and a scared engineer (who mentions they were raised by a pack of ARARs). There's also a mixed-breed dog on a little bed that you can pet, to restore some mental health. All of them are starting to run out of certain supplies which they are willing to trade for. The Gestalts will accept ration packs as currency while Replikas will barter for equal value items. Although historically important, authorities with the Eusan Nation never considered sending a Falke unit to supervise Gasthofsmund.

The Madness

While accomplishing different objectives is relatively simple, there are a pair of complicating factors: The Interface and Persona Degradation.

The scientist survivor explains that the relic dredged up from the polluted ocean is an interface through which an extra-dimensional intelligence can manipulate reality within a certain proximity. Obviously this has resulted in the reconfiguration of the local organics into new forms and the corruption of the Replikas. But It is doing other things as well.

At best, those things are inconvenient. Examples being the self-driving bus will go to the wrong destination or the formation of unnatural weather patterns (fog, heavy rain). But the intelligence can also cause time dilations. Thus you may encounter terrified trigger-happy soldiers from ancient wars, impenetrable domes of slowed time containing people frozen in place, and unhelpful observers from the future.

What the intelligence on the other side of The Interface is trying to accomplish is unknown. Some characters will speculate on it's goals but each theory will have some flaws.

The Replika that you are playing as is experiencing persona degradation due to stress and contamination. As a result your Replika will experience lapses in memory. Objects will randomly appear or disappear from your inventory and have to be re-located. NPC's you talk to will mention conversations that your Replika will not remember. If Dove is an NPC, you can convince her to regenerate your mind, which prevents the memory lapses, at the cost of her own sanity. However, the more your replika's persona degrades, the more you get to experience it's gestalt memories.

The Endings: The Interface or The Escape

You can escape Gasthofsmund by road or by boat.

There is a town to the north named Mahkra which has a military training camp and an airport. Survivors speculate it might be unaffected by the current crisis, someplace they could escape to.

If you attempt to walk along the road to Mahkra, you will be attacked by flocks of crazed sea birds, blinded, and then bleed to death, falling to the ground alongside other eyeless corpses. To avoid this ending you need to travel in a vehicle.

Normally you would be able to ride the bus to the town but Mayor Han shut the route down for security reasons. You can reprogram the buses, but first you'll have to extract the RFID chip from the Mayor's mutated remains in her upper class residence and plug it into a computer terminal at the government office. Some of the survivors, led by Adler, will turn on you for bringing the contaminated chip into their sanctuary, you'll have to deal with them. Afterwards you and whichever survivors are still alive can ride the bus safely through the murder-bird flocks. The bus will reach a barricade and then get hit by a rocket fired by the military, killing everyone inside. To avoid this ending, you have to search the hiking trail around the National Museum and recover a military radio from a dying scout which you can use to call off the rocket strike. Afterwards your replika and everyone with them will be taken into custody and kept under close observation for the remainder of their lives.

There is a boat in the harbor that you could use to escape the city by water. It's called the Misericordia and it needs work before it can become seaworthy. First you have to incinerate the flesh growths keeping it anchored. Then you have to find replacement parts at the engineering facility. And then you have to refuel it, this last step is noisy and will attract the corrupted replikas, the mutated sea lions, and the insane birds. If you manage to survive all that and weigh anchor then you + any surviving NPCs have the freedom to set sail in any direction, a freedom your Replika has never known. This might be the best ending.

Now about the Interface. It is located within a secret room in a chapel in the upper class residential bloc.

It looks like a small obsidian slab with crimson pulsating mold growing out of the edges. Touching it will cause you to be consumed by rot slowly and join the intelligence(s) on the other side. This is one of the simpler possible endings for your replika.

After it's immediate discovery, a group of scientists was called to Gasthofsmund to study The Interface. It was still dormant, just like it had been on the bottom of the ocean. The people researching it drafted up a simple two step plan: First, build a containment device based on known principles of bioresonance. Second, activate the Interface while it's in containment and try to establish a line of communication with whoever is on the other side. Unfortunately some other residents of the city had other ideas and caused the second stage to happen before the first was ready.

The half-finished containment device can be found in the engineering facility. By scavenging for parts across the city and in the museum, you can complete the device. You then have to haul it on your back through an unnaturally occurring typhoon to get to the chapel. You will receive assistance from a survivor NPC (that you befriended earlier) while being attacked by a few random enemies. Inside the chapel are 3 mysterious cultists, two of them are armed with guns, while the third uses their bioresonant abilities against you. They will try to kill you and your ally. If you manage to kill them and find The Interface, you can place it in containment. This will disconnect it from the biomass neural network and waves of enemies will attack you every few minutes in retaliation. Your ally then proposes taking the loaded device on to a raft with an outboard motor, going as far out to sea as possible, and then dumping it over the side. You then fight your way to the docks where a raft is tied up to a pier. The two of you board the raft and ride out into a storm tossed sea, never to be seen again. That is the last of the possible endings.

Depending on other unmentioned factors, there might be an epilogue where your replika wakes up in a bright clean factory. They are informed by an AEON executive that due to the heroic actions of the replika you played as during the Gasthofsmund Incident, their line has been reconsidered, their obsolete status rescinded, and production restarted.