#fidi tip

[mysticdargon]

Say hello to Fidi! While this drawing is admittedly old, it's the best one I have of her currently, and so I think it works fine for her intro post.

Her lore is currently in flux a little bit, but the main basis is this: Fidi is an elf who comes from a long-standing draconic bloodline in the peaks of Highland. As the High Church starts further closing its fist around the Land, Fidi finds herself in the midst of a rebellion alongside two members of the long-gone Dragonguard, fighting to release the islands from their clutches.

Her (and their) story is just one of many tangled threads across the Eilands, the details of their interweaving being something still under progress. She holds a special place in my heart, similar to Koraki, since they were both very early characters of mine <3

[micharedmc]

So I have to add on more lore my bf created whilst I shared Ivory's F-Virus

Ivory and Sean are official besties Albert has William, she has Sean. SO "Sean has a mechanical snake." "It's used for stealth missions and carries the virus to infect people if needed and ordered to." "The B.O.W from Sean's project alpha was a test subject bitten by the mechanical snake with the virus to see how sharp the fangs were as the bows skin became tensile and strong, able to harden against ballistic attacks." "The snake's endo-skeleton is made of carbon fibre titanium weaved whilst its outer shell is a polymorphic alloy, allowing it to look just like a real snake. The fangs are created from diamonds, only the tips, as it still needs to connect to the endo-skeleton." "It only attacks on command." (I tell him all of Ivory's research, her work on the virus, about Fidi) Him: "oh my god, my mechanical snake plus your virus it's like the perfect tool mixed!" Me: "IKR? Ivory and Sean are def meant to be best friends. They both love reptiles and incorporate that into their work!" Also just sent me this: "The mechanical snake shall be called Basil cuz Sean tried to find a name and looked at his spice rack whilst cooking and thought 'yeah Basil'." I joked that Basil is perfect for the laughs and cuz its close to Basilisk. Also he added: "There's a bigger body for Basil being built but it's only 50% complete due to how hard it is for him to acquire Titanium, which is what the endo-skeleton for the massive body is made up of." we love evil snake besties.

[observeroflaplace]

D13 - Check

Two tall, feminine figures appear by a towering aetheryte surrounded by pristine marble architecture. Clad in long, hooded dark grey robes and half masks, their forms coalesce from bright lights as they emerge from the great currents of aether from within the star.

The taller of the two, a brown-haired woman, asks,

“You know, I don’t recall you starting this project.”

The shorter woman, with blonde locks finishing in nigh iridescent tips, answers.

“That’s because I started it before we met.”

The brunette gasps.

“But wouldn’t that mean-?”

“A few centuries, yes. If nothing else, mankind is gifted with time; and from my youth, I knew that this study would take a lot of it.”

“This must be quite the creation then that you’re still tending to it. What is it?”

“Nothing novel unto itself; I merely modified the creations in a non-deterministic change from their publicly published matrices.”

The brunette pauses to think.

“…but then, after all this time..?”

The pair are quickly stopped by someone at the threshold of the small building they arrived in. He waves to greet them, and gestures to their masks; as notably he wore his around his neck.

“Masks off, if you would be so kind. A safety precaution, as I’m sure you’re aware.”

The blonde nods, as the pair take off their masks; revealing the blonde’s iridescent eyes, and the brunette’s ocean blue.

The gatekeeper gestures to let them past, but asks,

“So which subjects will you be investigating this time, Miss Logos?”

“I think I’ll check in on the developments on the Alepou, Tigri, Taos, Chelona, and Fidi samples.”

((The tall one, if you can’t guess, is one of @feelingkoii ‘s again))

[reliabledragon]

No Union Square? No FiDi? No K-Town? No Nolita? And who's ever called it "Southern Tip"!?

I could continue nitpicking, but these are major omissions of neighborhoods I hear referenced weekly. I am not convinced this map was made by someone who has ever lived in NYC.

Manhattan Neighborhoods

[unitedstatesrei]

25 Water Street Conversion Sets Record as Largest Office-to-Residential Project

Key Takeaways25 Water Street in Manhattan has become the largest office-to-residential conversion in U.S. history, with 1.1 million square feet transformed and nearly 1,300 new rental units added.The project has dramatically changed the Financial District’s skyline, including the addition of 10 stories to the existing structure.The influx of rentals is pushing up prices, challenging the neighborhood’s traditional character, and signaling a shift away from conventional office life. Redefining Downtown Living in the Financial DistrictManhattan’s 25 Water Street, just steps from Battery Park, is now the largest office-to-residential conversion ever undertaken in the United States. Developers gutted and rebuilt 1.1 million square feet, adding 10 stories and nearly 1,300 rental units, forever altering the FiDi skyline.Rental prices surge, neighborhood character faces collapse, and traditional office life fades beneath glimmering glass.As Wall Street’s shadows lengthen, real estate investors face a terrain transformed—next, every detail will cut closer.Transformation of 25 Water Street Reshapes FiDiAfter decades of market inertia, the relentless march of change has reached the shadow of One World Trade Center, as 25 Water Street—now reborn as SoMA—has shattered records and upended expectations in Manhattan’s Financial District.Once a silent relic of historic architecture, the hulking structure now threatens the status quo through a bold urban redevelopment. Once filled with the hum of the Daily News and the pulse of JPMorgan Chase, the former office tower is undergoing a complete transformation.What happens when the pulse of the Financial District turns from capital to community?Built at the southernmost tip of Manhattan, near storied Battery Park and the once-forgotten canyons of the Seaport District, SoMA now claims the title of the largest office-to-residential conversion ever attempted in the United States. Not even Wall Street is immune to the aftershocks.Developers GFP Real Estate, Metro Loft Management, and Rockwood Capital anchor the conversion. CetraRuddy, the celebrated architectural firm, has reimagined every level, repeating history—and rewriting it.The building’s formidable brick façade is being stripped and replaced with sweeping panes of glass, signaling a clear break from the past. Ten new stories soar above the old skyline, casting long shadows over the city’s crowded streets. As part of the overhaul, the building’s existing 1.1 million sq ft interiors are undergoing a complete gut renovation to make way for residential life.Pavarini McGovern drives construction at a relentless pace, having topped out the remarkable expansion by February 2024. Over 1.1 million square feet—space enough to swallow several city blocks—has been gutted and rebuilt from the inside out.Will the surge of new residents disrupt the fragile balance in FiDi?The scale is unprecedented. Nearly 1,300 rental units are emerging, offering a new population density that dwarfs nearby complexes. Studios start above $3,000 a month, with three bedrooms pushing the $10,000 boundary—before counting the undisclosed amenity fee.SoMA is loaded with 100,000 square feet of amenities, including outdoor terraces, green spaces, and a steel-framed pavilion. These privileges are exclusive—and costly.Who gets left behind when the market races ahead?This conversion is not just a project. It is a harbinger. Every gutted office and replaced brick marks another lost battleground in the war on vacancy that has swept New York since the COVID-19 pandemic.Driven by mounting economic pressure, and emboldened by Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign to repurpose underused office towers, the tide of urban redevelopment is swallowing landmarks. The ghosts of financial titans get no say.Opportunities for investors are abundant—but fleeting. Every leased unit, every greened terrace, draws FiDi further from its roots and closer to the edge of irreversible change.From interior sustainability upgrades to revamped Water Street landscaping, the developers have left no element untouched.

As new residents flood the Financial District, the tension between growth and history sharpens. The neighborhood’s delicate ecosystem faces a stress test.How long can the wave of redevelopment roll on before the city’s character is gone forever?AssessmentStanding in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge, 25 Water Street is changing the game for real estate in FiDi—showing just how big, risky, and urgent these office-to-residential conversions have become.With conversions stalling and costs creeping up, local investors are watching closely to see if trouble’s ahead.Vacancy rates downtown are already raising eyebrows, and a shift in the rental market could happen before anyone realizes.Empty office floors and declining confidence could create a ripple effect all the way down Wall Street.So what happens if this wave of uncertainty picks up speed?Now’s the time to look at your holdings and consider how these trends could impact your portfolio.Don’t wait until the market moves out from under you; take a close look at what 25 Water Street signals for the future and plan your next steps accordingly.

[r0hitdhiman]

A Complete Guide to International Relocation Services: What You Need to Know

Relocating to a new country can be an exciting opportunity—but it also comes with complex challenges. From paperwork and customs regulations to shipping logistics and storage options, international relocation is a task best handled by professionals. Whether you're moving for work, education, or a fresh start, partnering with a trusted international relocation service can make the entire process stress-free and efficient.

In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before planning your international move.

What Are International Relocation Services?

International relocation services are end-to-end solutions that manage every aspect of your overseas move. They go beyond just moving your belongings—they help with customs clearance, documentation, packing, shipping, insurance, and even settling in your new location.

Key services include:

Pre-move consultation and planning

Professional packing and labeling

Sea freight or air cargo transportation

Customs clearance and documentation

Delivery and unpacking at the destination

Storage and warehousing (if needed)

Benefits of Hiring International Relocation Experts

Relocating internationally without expert help can lead to delays, lost goods, or costly mistakes. Here’s how professionals can help:

✅ Hassle-Free Customs Clearance

Experienced movers are familiar with customs regulations, taxes, and paperwork in various countries, minimizing risks of delays or penalties.

✅ Professional Packing & Inventory

International movers use specialized packing materials to ensure your belongings stay safe during long-haul transport—especially fragile or high-value items.

✅ End-to-End Tracking & Insurance

Many providers offer real-time shipment tracking and insurance coverage to protect your belongings against unforeseen events.

✅ Cost-Efficiency

While international relocation services come at a cost, they often save you money in the long run by avoiding rework, damage, or missed shipments.

Common Challenges in International Moving (And How to Overcome Them)

📦 Delays in Documentation

Start gathering important documents—passport, visa, inventory list, tax records, etc.—well in advance.

🌍 Navigating Customs and Duties

Each country has unique import rules. Work with movers who provide customs support to avoid surprise fees or prohibited items.

🚢 Choosing the Right Shipping Method

Decide between sea freight (cost-effective for large moves) or air freight (faster, ideal for urgent or small shipments).

🏠 Finding Temporary Storage

If your new home abroad isn’t ready yet, opt for a company that offers secure storage solutions locally or overseas.

How to Choose the Best International Relocation Company

Here’s what to look for in a reliable relocation partner:

Proven experience with international moves

Certifications and licenses (FIDI, IAM, etc.)

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Positive client reviews and testimonials

Dedicated move coordinator for personalized support

Pro Tip: Start Planning Early

International moves require more time and coordination than local ones. Begin preparations at least 2–3 months in advance to avoid last-minute stress and secure the best rates.

Final Thoughts

An international move marks a major life change. Whether you’re relocating for business or personal reasons, choosing the right partner is essential. Professional international relocation services ensure your transition is smooth, organized, and stress-free—so you can focus on settling into your new home abroad.

Looking for reliable international movers in Dubai? Trust Chevron Shipping Services LLC to handle your move with expertise and care. From door-to-door logistics to complete customs support, they’re your go-to partner for global relocations.

👉 Learn more at https://chevron-shipping.com

[clairebenblog]

Ensuring the Safety of Your Belongings During International Shipping

International shipping can be a complex process, and ensuring the safety of your belongings is a top priority. Whether you’re relocating for work, moving abroad, or shipping valuable items, the risk of damage, loss, or delays is always present. Choosing reliable Packers and Movers International and following best practices can help ensure a smooth and secure shipping experience.

In this article, we will cover essential tips and strategies to safeguard your belongings during international shipping, including selecting the right moving company, understanding insurance coverage, proper packing techniques, and navigating customs regulations.

Selecting a reputable international moving company is crucial for the safety of your belongings. Here’s what to consider:

Reliable Packers and Movers International should have industry-recognized certifications. Look for:

FIDI (International Federation of International Movers) Accreditation

IAM (International Association of Movers) Membership

ISO Certifications for quality management

Customs Broker Licensing

These certifications indicate compliance with global shipping standards and regulations.

Shipping valuable belongings overseas involves risks, including theft, damage, or misplacement. Different insurance policies cover various risks:

Total Loss Insurance — Covers complete loss of shipment due to accidents.

All-Risk Insurance — Provides comprehensive coverage for damage, loss, and theft.

Named Perils Insurance — Covers specific risks such as fire, water damage, or theft.

Before purchasing insurance:

Investing in the right coverage ensures financial protection in case of any unexpected incidents.

Packing plays a crucial role in protecting items from damage. Use:

Sturdy cardboard boxes

Bubble wrap for fragile items

Foam padding for electronic devices

Waterproof wrapping for important documents

When shipping fragile items, follow these steps:

Wrap items individually with bubble wrap.

Use double-layered boxes for extra protection.

Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts or foam to prevent movement.

Clearly label boxes as “FRAGILE” to ensure careful handling.

Proper labeling and inventory tracking help prevent loss and make unpacking easier at the destination.

Each country has different customs regulations. Ensure you have:

Bill of Lading — Proof of shipment details.

Customs Declaration Form — Lists all items being shipped.

Packing List — A detailed inventory of items.

Import Permits (if required) — Some countries require permits for specific goods.

Before shipping, check the destination country’s list of restricted items. Commonly restricted items include:

Firearms and ammunition

Perishable food items

Hazardous chemicals

Certain medications

Failure to comply with customs regulations can lead to delays, penalties, or confiscation of items.

Most international moving companies provide tracking services. Features to look for:

To ensure smooth delivery, maintain constant communication with your Packers and Movers International. Request:

Regular communication helps address concerns promptly and reduces uncertainties.

Shipping delays can occur due to weather conditions, customs inspections, or logistical issues. To prepare:

If your belongings arrive before you do or if delays occur, storage services can be useful. Choose a company that offers:

Short-term and long-term storage options

Climate-controlled storage for delicate items

Secure warehouse facilities

Using secure storage facilities can help protect your belongings until you’re ready to receive them.

International shipping requires careful planning and execution to ensure the safety of your belongings. By choosing reputable Packers and Movers International, securing proper insurance, using effective packing techniques, and understanding customs regulations, you can significantly reduce risks associated with overseas transportation.

With the right preparation and trusted moving professionals, you can experience a hassle-free international shipping process and ensure your items arrive safely at their new destination. If you’re planning an international move, follow these expert tips to protect your valuables and enjoy a smooth relocation experience.

[brightlinkcargo]

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best International Movers in Dubai: Tips for a Seamless Relocation Experience

Relocating internationally is one of the most exciting and overwhelming experiences. Whether you're moving to or from Dubai, navigating the complexities of international moving requires careful planning, the right resources, and a trusted moving company to help make the process as smooth as possible.

If you’re considering an international move, this guide will help you choose the best overseas movers in Dubai and ensure that your belongings arrive safely and on time, no matter where you’re headed.

1. Know What Services You Need

Before you start reaching out to movers, take a moment to think about what services you need. International relocation can involve various moving tasks, including packing, shipping, storage, customs clearance, and insurance. Some movers offer all-inclusive services, while others specialize in specific aspects of the move.

What services should you look for?

Packing & Crating: If you’re moving delicate items like artwork, electronics, or antiques, ask if the movers provide custom crating or professional packing services.

Customs Assistance: International moves require paperwork, especially regarding customs declarations. Look for movers who can assist with this process and ensure your items clear customs without delays.

Storage Solutions: If your new home isn’t ready yet, you might need temporary storage. Choose a moving company that offers secure, short- and long-term storage options.

Door-to-Door Service: For the most convenience, opt for movers who can handle everything from pick-up to delivery at your destination, including all the logistics in between.

2. Experience with International Moves

When moving across borders, experience matters. International moves involve more than just packing and shipping; they require knowledge of global logistics, customs regulations, and international shipping methods.

What to ask:

How long has the company been handling international moves?

Do they have experience moving goods to your destination country?

Can they provide case studies or references from previous clients?

An experienced international moving company will be familiar with the best shipping routes, potential delays, and the specific requirements for your destination country, ensuring that your move runs as smoothly as possible.

3. Research and Reputation: Check Reviews and References

Reputation is key when it comes to choosing a moving company. Look for movers who have solid reviews and are known for their reliability and customer service. Researching online reviews and asking the company for references from past clients can give you a clear sense of the company’s track record.

Key questions to ask:

Can the company provide testimonials or reviews from previous international clients?

Are they affiliated with industry associations like the International Association of Movers (IAM) or FIDI?

How do they handle customer complaints or issues that may arise during the move?

Choose a company with positive feedback and a history of delivering on promises, especially when it comes to timing, safety, and customer support.

4. Transparent Pricing and Insurance Coverage

Moving internationally can be costly, so it's essential to understand the pricing structure and ensure there are no hidden fees. A reputable international moving company will provide a transparent quote that breaks down all costs, from packing to delivery.

What to look for:

Clear Estimates: A detailed estimate should include all fees, including fuel surcharges, packing materials, and any additional services like storage or insurance.

Insurance Options: Accidents can happen, and it's important to protect your belongings. Make sure the moving company offers comprehensive insurance coverage, including full value protection (FVP) in case of loss or damage.

It’s a good idea to compare moving quotes from different companies to ensure you're getting a fair deal. Don’t just go for the cheapest option, consider the value, quality of service, and the level of protection they offer.

5. Customer Support and Communication

The moving process can be stressful, especially when dealing with international logistics. Good communication is essential, and you’ll want to ensure your movers are accessible, responsive, and available to assist you when needed.

What to expect:

A dedicated point of contact or move coordinator who will keep you updated throughout the process.

Clear communication on all timelines, including when your belongings will be picked up, shipped, and delivered.

Quick responses to your questions, whether they’re about paperwork, shipping updates, or special requirements.

If your moving company provides a mobile app or an online tracking system, that’s an added bonus, it will help you track your items in real-time and reduce stress.

6. Shipping Options: Sea Freight vs. Air Freight

When it comes to shipping your belongings internationally, you have a choice between sea freight (ocean shipping) and air freight (air shipping). Each has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right option for your needs.

Sea Freight: Sea freight is typically more affordable and ideal for larger shipments, but it takes longer, usually several weeks. This option is great for household goods, furniture, and bulky items.

Air Freight: Air freight is faster but more expensive. It’s ideal for high-priority items, like important documents, valuables, or smaller quantities of goods that need to arrive quickly.

Ask your moving company about both options and get an estimate for each, so you can decide what fits your timeline and budget.

7. Flexibility and Timeliness

International moves rarely go exactly as planned, so flexibility is essential. Your moving company should be able to accommodate any last-minute changes or delays, whether it’s adjusting the schedule or offering alternative solutions for unforeseen issues.

What to consider:

Does the company offer flexibility if your arrival date or delivery address changes?

What is their track record for on-time deliveries? Delays can be costly, so it’s crucial to choose a company that delivers on time.

Look for movers who can work within your timelines and provide flexibility, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead and Choose Wisely

An international move is a big undertaking, but with the right moving company, the experience can be much smoother and less stressful. Do your research, ask the right questions, and choose a company that offers not only the services you need but also a reputation for reliability and excellent customer service.

In Dubai, where global connections and a diverse population make international moves a common occurrence, finding the right movers can make all the difference. By considering factors like experience, reputation, transparent pricing, and customer support, you’ll set yourself up for a successful relocation to your new destination—whether you're moving for work, family, or adventure!

[muveone]

How do I choose a good removal company?

Moving to a new home can be exciting, but also stressful. There are many things to consider and plan, such as packing, decluttering, cleaning, and transferring utilities. One of the most important decisions you will have to make is how to choose a good removal company to transport your belongings to your new destination. A good removal company can make your move easier, faster, and safer, but a bad one can cause you headaches, damages, and extra costs. In this article, we will explore the factors that you should consider when choosing a good removal company, and how to avoid the common pitfalls and scams.

Factors to consider when choosing a good removal company

There are many removal companies in the market, but not all of them are reliable, professional, or affordable. To choose a good removal company, you should consider the following factors:

Reputation: The reputation of the removal company is a good indicator of their quality and service. You should look for a removal company that has positive reviews, testimonials, and ratings from previous customers, as well as accreditations, memberships, or awards from reputable organizations, such as the British Association of Removers (BAR), the International Association of Movers (IAM), or the Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux (FIDI).

Experience: The experience of the removal company is another factor that reflects their expertise and competence. You should look for a removal company that has been in the business for a long time, and that has handled moves similar to yours, in terms of the distance, the size, the complexity, and the destination. You should also ask the removal company about their staff, their training, their equipment, and their vehicles, to ensure that they are qualified and prepared for your move.

Price: The price of the removal company is another factor that affects your decision. You should look for a removal company that offers you a fair and transparent quote, based on your inventory, your services, and your destination. You should also compare the quotes from different removal companies, and look for any hidden fees, surcharges, or exclusions. You should also ask the removal company about their payment methods, their cancellation policy, and their insurance coverage, to avoid any surprises or disputes.

Service: The service of the removal company is the final factor that determines your satisfaction and peace of mind. You should look for a removal company that offers you a friendly, courteous, and responsive customer service, from the initial contact to the final delivery. You should also look for a removal company that offers you a range of services to suit your needs and preferences, such as packing, unpacking, storage, insurance, or customs clearance. You should also look for a removal company that offers you a tracking system, a contact person, and a feedback mechanism, to keep you informed and updated throughout your move.

How to avoid the common pitfalls and scams when choosing a removal company

Unfortunately, not all removal companies are honest and trustworthy. Some of them may try to take advantage of you, by overcharging you, damaging your belongings, or disappearing with your items. To avoid the common pitfalls and scams when choosing a removal company, you should follow these tips:

Do your research: Before you choose a removal company, you should do some research on their background, reputation, and credentials. You can check their website, their social media, their online reviews, and their references. You can also contact the relevant organizations, such as the BAR, the IAM, or the FIDI, to verify their membership and accreditation. You can also ask your friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations or warnings.

Get a written contract: Once you have chosen a removal company, you should get a written contract that specifies the details of your move, such as the date, the time, the address, the inventory, the services, the price, the payment terms, the cancellation policy, the insurance coverage, and the dispute resolution process. You should read the contract carefully, and make sure that you understand and agree with everything. You should also keep a copy of the contract for your records.

Avoid paying upfront: Some removal companies may ask you to pay a large deposit or the full amount upfront, before they start the move. This is a red flag, as they may not show up on the moving day, or they may hold your belongings hostage until you pay more. You should avoid paying upfront, and only pay when the move is completed and you are satisfied with the service. You should also use a secure and traceable payment method, such as a credit card or a bank transfer, and avoid cash or cheques.

Check your belongings: Before and after the move, you should check your belongings for any damages, losses, or discrepancies. You should make an inventory list of your items, and take photos or videos of their condition. You should also inspect the removal company’s vehicle, equipment, and packing materials, to ensure that they are clean and safe. If you notice any problems, you should report them to the removal company immediately, and ask for a compensation or a resolution.

How to move to the UK with MuveOne

If you are planning to move to the UK permanently, you will need a reliable and professional removal company to help you with your relocation. That’s where MuveOne comes in. MuveOne is an international European removals service that specializes in moving people and their belongings to and from the UK. Whether you are moving to London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or any other city in the UK, we can handle your removals to UK with ease and efficiency.

We offer a range of services to suit your needs and budget, such as:

Full or part load removals

Door-to-door or depot-to-depot delivery

Insurance

Customs clearance and documentation

We have a team of experienced and friendly movers who will take care of your belongings with care and respect. They will also provide you with advice and guidance on how to prepare for your move to the UK, such as what to pack, what to leave behind, and what to expect on arrival.

To get a free quote for your removals to UK, simply fill out the online form our website, or call us at +44 333 344 2573 . MuveOne will get back to you with a competitive and customized offer, based on your specific needs and preferences. You can also check out our blog for more tips and information on moving to the UK and living there permanently.

MuveOne is the ultimate choice for your removals to UK. Contact us today and let us make your move to the UK a breeze.

[frankenshane]

sometimes i see people complain about the cost of like a cup of coffee in downtown sf and are like "it was $10!" and i'm just like, you good? would you like some pointers to go somewhere less expensive? because like i can get a coffee almost the size of my head from one of the fidi philz for $6 before taxes and tips and it still isn't totaling $10.

[melpomenelamusa]

14, 16, 17, 26, 29 for Elafi, Fifi and Tigri :3

Hi!!! OMG, these are a lot of questions!!! Answering took some time, but here they are!!! (from this random oc questions):

14. What types of characters would they gravitate towards in fiction? drop their kinlist

Elafi: He likes characters who, like him, are guided by their hearts, do the right thing, and strive for the greater good, overcoming all kinds of obstacles to stay true to themselves. Some characters that come to mind are: Pure Vanilla Cookie from CookieRun Kingdom, Xie Lian from Heaven Official’s Blessing, The Little Prince, Jonathan Joestar from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, and Nausicaä from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

Ofidia: Fidi likes clever, creative, and interesting characters, just like her, those who solve their problems using wit rather than fists. I'm sure she’d find characters like Sherlock Holmes and MacGyver entertaining. She also loves strong and beautiful female characters, such as Jolyne Kujo from JJBA, Galadriel from the LOTR trilogy, Nadia from the otome The Arcana, and the entire female cast of Arcane.

Tigri: This guy is a fan of muscular men, strong in physical power, character, or development. I imagine him being a huge fan of JJBA (Dio is his guilty crush). He also likes characters like Leon Kennedy from Resident Evil, Dante from Devil May Cry, Shanks from One Piece, Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars, and Prince Zuko from Avatar: The Last Airbender.

16. What makes them like someone instantly?

I decided to answer this from a purely romantic or sexual attraction perspective:

Elafi: He doesn’t know what he likes, he’s never liked anyone (so far). If you asked him right now, he’d give you a vague answer like, “Someone who’s a good person.”

Ofidia: She likes girls who are intellectually interesting and have big boobs (just being honest).

Tigri: He has a tendency to want to protect others, so while he’d love to date a big muscular guy because that’s a huge turn-on for him, he could also deeply connect with someone brave and interesting whom he feels the urge to protect.

17. What artistic medium would they be best at? (painting, photography, sculpting, etc.)

Elafi: He’s quite patient, so he might excel at time-consuming and detail-oriented crafts, like sculpting or wood carving. He doesn’t know how to do any of them yet, but he’d definitely be open to learn if someone taught him.

Ofidia: She’s very good at drawing. So many years spent locked up gave her plenty of time to practice. Her favorite thing to draw is clothing designs, but she’s also skilled at drawing realistic portraits of people and animals at a pretty solid level.

Tigri: I don’t see him having the patience for any kind of artistic activity that requires long dedication, but he surely enjoys seeing what others can create. He’s more into video games and sports, though he’s the one in his family who takes the best photographs.

26. What would their Youtube recommendations look like?

Elafi: Gardening tips, healthy cooking recipes, fun facts about animals and plants, hour-long compilations of animals doing adorable things, lo-fi music for sleeping and reading, yoga videos, and chakra-unlocking frequencies.

Ofidia: Fashion history, sewing and pattern-making tutorials, speed-paints, skincare (and scale-care) tips, current fashion trends, design and color theory breakdowns, and empowering girl playlists.

Tigri: Tons and tons of gameplays, video game analysis, basketball game replays, fitness and sports care advice, narrated horror and supernatural story compilations, meme videos, and his favorite MVs.

29. What’s a memorable moment from their childhood?

I’m considering childhood to be the stage before they became chimera children during puberty:

Elafi: The first time he went camping with his parents in the mountains and saw the starry sky in all its glory, completely surrounded by nature.

Ofidia: The time her grandmother let her use her sewing machine and she made her first dress for her doll.

Tigri: The first time he went to an amusement park with his parents and rode a space-themed roller coaster. That’s when he discovered his love for adrenaline rushes.

[rhpsdys]

( promises to do stuff on my other blog ) ( comes right over here to make a headcanon post )

so in all my human realm verses, raine is from new york. i've been pretty vague about what the actual structure among magic users is here, though it's been loosely based on the world established in wwdits. but as i was walking through the part of brooklyn today where i imagine raine lived before getting their job up at lincoln center && moving there, i started parsing out how to translate the wiser coven system from toh to these verse.

basically, the coven system isn't as rigidly enforced here as it is in canon — it's much closer to what it should have been: a simple way of allowing witches who specialize in the same kind of magic to work together, learn from each other, && get stronger.

( witches as they exist here are defined as a partial human with fae blood. this could mean having one human parent && one fae parent, or just having a fae ancestor. how strong their magic is depends on how present the fae blood is, && a witch with strong enough genes will be born with pointed ears — the only physical characteristic setting them apart from humans. )

there are nine covens, && each is based in a different part of new york city. in a way, these neighborhoods could be considered each coven's territory ( three guesses as to where this idea comes from lmao ).

the bard coven is based in manhattan on the midtown/upper west side cusp, with lincoln center (a major performing arts complex) as the hub. their territory spans roughly from west 60th to 72nd st, && is bordered by central park && west end ave.

the beast keeping coven is based in the bronx, && their territory includes the bronx river forest/new york botanical garden/bronx zoo. this should be self explanatory.

the construction coven is based in fidi, bordered by the west side highway && the hudson, battery park on the south end, && the northen end of city hall park. however, they operate much more vastly — construction coven witches can be found anywhere there's a subway station.

the plant coven is based in brooklyn! they occupy the full span of the brooklyn botanic garden && prospect park.

the potions coven is based in staten island. i don't know the island that well, honestly, but i imagine they're pretty far inland, probably around todt hill.

the abomination coven is based in queens. they have to work pretty far out of the way, since their magic is objectively the least subtle. the operate on the island by jfk, but most live in the howard beach && wakefield areas.

the oracle coven is also based in queens, but on the north end, between downtown flushing && corona.

the healing coven is based on the upper east side of manhattan, centered around the new york-presbyterian medical complex/weill cornell medical center, naturally. their territory spans from east 60th to 79th st, with the east river && park ave to either side.

&& finally, the illusionist coven is at the southernmost tip of brooklyn, brighton beach, located around coney island.

[thisnerdsadventures]

Apartment Hunting: A Post-Mortem

[a post-mortem is what we call a reflection, or a summary, of some project or process we went through after it's wrapped up.]

I recently travelled to New York to find an apartment, and if you don't know anything about the housing market in NYC, here's a quick sum-up of what it's like: it's awful, ridiculously competitive, and expensive. If you're thinking of moving to New York, or want to see what everyone's complaining about, feel free to read on!

What I was looking for in the very beginning (the very ideal, but as I soon learned, not realistic):

- Laundry in building or in-unit [non-negotiable]: I just simply refuse to leave the building to do my laundry

- Elevator building or max 3rd floor walkup: Lots of older buildings might not have elevators in the building, so they'll often be five or six stories tall, hence "walk-up"

- Doorman: I wasn't sure how safe a building without a doorman would be? (I soon relented and realized that buildings without a doorman sometimes have a virtual doorman, or are protected by a double door with the inner door only accessible with a keycard or code. That should be sufficient for building security, for me at least)

- Downtown, close to neighborhoods like the East Village (EV), Lower east side (LES), Nolita, Noho/Soho, West Village. These neighborhoods seemed like the fun parts based on what people had told me, and I was a little hesitant on places like FiDi or Battery Park City, which I heard had a reputation for being quieter. Also important is max 25-30 minutes by train away from my office.

- And lastly, a $2k-2.5k price range per person for a 2 bedroom (so $4k-5k total) - I'm living with a friend from school, which I'm personally excited for, so that I know someone in the city and we'll also have more space in the apartment too.

Pre-travel, I had scoured the Internet (Streeteasy, Renthop, Zillow, and Apartments.com) for potential apartments and reached out to a few brokers - a couple in EV, one in Nolita. Something I didn't realize was that when you reach out, the broker might call you and try to find you other places to in addition to the one you had requested info on. So within the first few days of looking, I guess I already had like 4 brokers looking for me??? More on this though to come.

[Apt #1] Arriving in New York, I immediately had a tour for a 2bed/1ba in EV. Honestly, this was probably one of the best places I had looked at. It was on the seventh (eighth (?)) floor of an elevator building with laundry on the first floor. No doorman, but the building felt secure to me because of the double door. The apartment was small, but clean and newly renovated. It was priced at around $4k, which was, in hindsight, an extraordinary deal considering everything else I had seen after this one. However, it was too far for my roommate and already had several applications in, so it was gone by the morning.

This is one good tip [tip #1] though -make sure to have all your documents gathered and compiled on your phone or printed out before visiting places. The market can be fiercely competitive - I watched a youtube video the other day about this girl who didn't get an apartment because she sent in her application 15 minutes later than the last applicant. Documents include multiple paystubs, bank statements, and photo ID.

[Apt #2] The next day I checked out a place in Nolita - 2bed/1ba, laundry in-unit, but a fifth floor walkup. One of the bedrooms had literally no light, which I didn't feel good about at all. I didn't realize how much sunlight meant to me until I saw this room and imagined myself living there. It's shocking how much you can't tell just how bad the lighting is from a photo or a video. So [tip #2] you absolutely ABSOLUTELY must visit places in-person, otherwise you might be stuck with places with very bad lighting.

Another thing I didn't realize was that when you consider the broker's fee with the monthly rent, it'll seem a lot pricier than on paper. For instance, if this place was $5k/month, but the broker's fee was one months rent, then total cost for the year would be $65k, so you might as well consider monthly rent at $5.4k/month. for an apartment that partly doesn't have sunlight. on the FIFTH FLOOR. I am not paying $5.4k/month for that. So make sure you take into account broker's fee when you're looking at apartments. [tip #3]

At this point, my roommate and I narrowed our search to the Financial District and were no longer exclusively looking for buildings w a doorman. Our target price range slowly fizzled into extinction. I reached out to a number of other places on Renthop mostly, and a few brokers reached back out. Some of these were flex apartments, which are studios or 1bed apartments that can be converted to a 2bed apartment by adding a "flex wall" somewhere, usually cordoning off a portion of the living room. Because the total space is smaller than a true 2bed, these can be cheaper. But depending on how the wall is set up and how the division is determined, you might not get full privacy, and you might be cutting out lighting into certain spaces.

Some of these units were true 2beds, but also sounded too good to be true. One of these units was listed at [x] street, but when I asked the realtor where to meet him, he said an address at [y] street. I googled [y] street, and the NYC Housing Dept website said that it was an office building. This was a red flag to me because I read about "bait and switches" online. [tip #4]: Bait and switches are when brokers tell you to meet them on the corner somewhere (not in front of the building they said they would show you), and then once you're there, they claim they can't show you that unit because its already rented, so they show you other units that might not have what you need. So, I was very suspicious because he wasn't telling me to meet him in front of the listed address - I replied, "This is an office building," and I asked him for the actual address - he then finally disclosed the actual address, which was (to his credit) near [x] street, but was in fact on [z] street! And I had already visited the unit anyways, so this entire conversation turned out to be a grand waste of my time.

This unit was [apt #3] - a 2bed/1ba in the heart of the Financial District (FiDi), on the second floor in a large luxury building with laundry, elevator, doorman, gym, etc. It was also not super out of our price range, coming in at around $5,150/month, but once I walked in, I realized why - there was absolutely no light in the unit whatsover. FiDi is filled with huge buildings, 30, 40 stories tall. If you're on the second floor, there's a good chance that you'll have no light because there are too many buildings around. I looked up - there were no lights built into the ceiling, so we'd have to handle all of our lighting ourselves. Moreover, with utilities and building amenity fees, we'd be looking at something close to $5400/month. ([tip #5]: Utilities and various amenity fees can add up quick.)

[apt #4] was about the same - 2nd floor, similar price, no light. Lower floors can also mean more noise from the street, and I saw trash trucks pull up right by the window. One thing I tried to do was negotiate down the price because of the lighting issue, but it was to no avail - the market was just too in demand. It's too bad - the unit was really nice and comparatively spacious, but I just wasn't willing to compromise on the lighting issue.

I was a little nervous at this point about what kind of price range we were going to have to accommodate or what other concessions we'd have to make in terms of opting for a flex apt. Most of the other reasonable 2bed units were starting at $5.6-5.7k/month, nothing close to within our range. Luckily though, one of the brokers I was working with managed to find a unit off-the-market that checked all of our boxes, just not listed on Streeteasy yet.

[apt #5] - I checked it out early one Saturday morning and the building got a pretty good amount of light. Space was ok, not too big, not too small, and the building was super nice. Gym was pretty spacious and clean, rooftop had a gorgeous view of Manhattan. Laundry was in-building, not in-unit, but I figured we had dealt with that for four years in college anyways, so not the worst concession. It was about a 10-15 minute walk away from our respective offices, so literally hit all of our points, except it was just a bit outside of our price range. And it had no applications outstanding - once I got home, I sent my roommate a video of the place and said, "We need to fill out an application for this place ASAP."

Luckily we managed to get an application in, and after a bit of explaining my paystub format to the leasing office (some of my paystubs cover one week, not two? Other's cover two??), they approved us! So after just a week of hectic searching, we are officially residents of NYC :D

I'm not sure what I learned from this process except sometimes, in order to understand how crazy certain things are, you just gotta dive headfirst into the process. I did do a ton of research on the market and various red flags to watch out for, and that helped me out of a few trapdoors, like the no lighting situation or the sketchy broker address situation. If I hadn't read up on how you should visit places in person or about what bait-and-switches are, I could've ended up in quite a situation. Also to not hesitate when filling out applications - compared to the overall cost of renting in NYC, app fees aren't that huge. Be direct and ask for what you want from the brokers and the leasing office - don't hesitate to ask for a free month or waived fees. Worst thing that happens is that they'll just say no! And you definitely aren't the first person to ask either, so it's not like they'll take it personally.

[hshouse]

Hey! I'm going to spend the month of January in New York for a school thing, and I wanted to know if you have any tips about staying in the city? I'm coming from out of the country and I have a good scholarship so I have housing and stuff covered, but I wanted to know what extra cost I should think about and also best places to visit if you have any tips about that as well!! Thank you💗💗💗

Hi bby,

WELCOME TO NEW YORK, IT’S BEEN WAITING FOR YOU!!!

So costs! Food is pretty expensive if you go to a sit down restaurant. I’d stick to fast casual like sweetgreen and fast food like five guys to save money. For the metro/bus it’s 2.75 and you can change from metro to bus or vice versa once. The monthly/weekly passes are only worth it if you plan on taking the metro more than 2 times a day. Otherwise, paying each ride will be cheaper. January is cold as fuck so make sure to bring or have money for winter stuff (mainly you need a big good winter coat and a beanie imo. don’t buy winter boots if u don’t have them, it’s not enough snow. your sneakers will be fine).

Most attractions are expensive so make sure to do research and pick some and not all. Like there are 3 tall buildings (empire state, the one in Rockfeller plaza and the twin towers one). It’s cool and you should go, but to only one of these. I really like the circle line ferry from 42nd st cause it goes around the island and it’s pretty. For museums you can get student discounts. Idk how much you are into them but if you are not, you should go to the met and natural history. If you are then also whitney, guggenheim and moma. Out of touristy things I think are worth it is about that (paid). Must go free: west village/washington sq park, central park (multiple times it is gigantic), battery park/fidi, soho, brookly bridge, upper west side, columbus circle/billionaire’s row, walk down 5th, grand central, bryant park (I’ll edit if I rmr anything else). For times square, you have to go at night. It’s disgusting during the day and not exciting. If you can go at like 3am that’s the best cause all the lights are up but no one is there (best pics).

NY is a walking city so comfy shoes are a must. You will walk in and out of heated spaces a lot so layers!!! I always wear a tshirt under all the layers cause sometimes it gets hot inside places.

Enjoy the city. It’s a place that works like a machine and it doesn’t care about you so give it the respect of understanding we do things like this and it works. Like it’s dirty yes it is full of tourists yes it is full of bat shit insane people yes but like we fucking love it. So come with an open heart and I’m sure you will love it.

[nwbeerguide]

Back for more, Oskar Blues Brewery announces the release of Ten FIDY Imperial Stout

Press Release

Longmont, Colo. … Oskar Blues Brewery’s Ten FIDY Imperial Stout, a darker-than-dark, 10.5% ABV black hole of burly malt flavor, will return as a seasonal release on Sept. 14. Massively malty and imperially smooth, Ten FIDY will be distributed nationwide on draft and in 4-packs of 12 oz. cans.

Vast quantities of big, dark malt including caramel malt, Munich malt, and fluffy oats are used in the making of Ten FIDY. The result is a viscous, opaque brew that gravitates toward flavors of espresso, chocolate-covered caramel, black licorice and plum. Ten FIDY will return as supermassive as ever this fall.

When asked what sets Ten FIDY apart from other imperial stouts, Oskar Blues Head of Brewing Operations, Tim Matthews, said, “The sweetness aims at being mouth-coating but not stomach-coating. It has all the robust flavor without the excessive sugar that other imperial stouts have.” He went on to suggest some tips for maximum enjoyment of Ten FIDY, specifically that it should be paired with anything smothered in gravy or with chocolate desserts; and that the optimal time to enjoy a can of the seasonal stout is “at the end of the day after all activities are wrapped, when everything is slowing down for the evening and you’re ready to sip on the reward.”

Oskar Blues first brewed Ten FIDY in 2007. Over the years, it’s gained a loyal following and a place in the hearts of many an Imperial Stout lover, earning a score of 97 on Beer Advocate and praise from beer-centric publications. “This big, bad stout is not messing around,” said Men’s Journal. Paste Magazine described it as “enticingly thicc” and “a blueprint for one of craft beer’s tastiest styles.” 

Explore the depths of Ten FIDY Imperial Stout starting Sept. 14 with release parties at Oskar Blues taprooms in Longmont, Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, Austin, Texas, and Brevard, North Carolina. Or to find it near you, keep an eye on the beerfinder.

www.oskarblues.com

About Oskar Blues Brewery Founded by Dale Katechis in 1997 in Lyons, Colorado, Oskar Blues Brewery launched the craft-beer-in-a-can apocalypse with their hand-canned flagship brew, Dale’s Pale Ale. Today, Oskar Blues operates breweries in Colorado, North Carolina and Texas featuring Dale’s Pale Ale as the nation’s #3 top-selling craft can six-pack at U.S. supermarkets. Oskar Blues is available nationwide in the US and in over 20 countries. Oskar Blues Brewery is a proud member of CANarchy, a disruptive collective of like-minded craft brewers dedicated to bringing high-quality, innovative flavors to drinkers in the name of independent craft beer.

from Northwest Beer Guide - News - The Northwest Beer Guide http://bit.ly/2LOaG2u

[nicholasscottmcmanus]

THE IRON HORSE CLOSES ON CLIFF STREET IN FiDi

Patrons with Iron's Horse's interior sign during the bar's last night, 2/26/19 at 7p.

If you've spent any time drinking in downtown Manhattan you've probably got at least one wild, bar dancing story from Iron Horse, a bar that closed last night after almost a ten-year run on Cliff Street. After they announced the shuttering on Feb. 18th on Instagram, my high school friend and long time Iron Horse patron Bill Enright invited me to join in their final happy hour last night. He also and introduced me to owner Zbigniew 'Ziggy' Szymczyk, who tended the bar along with a bevy of sultry females. "Ziggy told me they're closing because their lease was up and they wanted an astronomical amount of rent," Enright relayed to me. "It sucks."

Iron Horse owner Zbigniew 'Ziggy' Szymczyk (center) with longtime customer Bill Enright (right) on the bar's last night.

Iron Horse was already a mad-house when we arrived at 6:30 and we immediately ordered a small mountain of three-dollar canned beers as Enright ran into one fellow regular after another. When Szymczyk himself served our next round, Enright tried to thank him over of the blasting music. "You remember I came by every day for three years, do ya Ziggy?" After Szymczyk's worn ears heard every word, held up his arms and surrendered to Enright with a smile. "Believe me I know, I was here." 

Sign for Iron Horse's silent auction of it's ephemera.

Their warm exchange was genuine as were the tears shed by the surrounding employed adults of every stripe in the downtown area. Suited office-types bristled against neon-hoodied construction workers as folks dressed up in leather squeezed between towards the back where a Twister board was set up. It in use by a reunion of folks from a nearby office that had known the bar well. "A lot of us work a different places now," one of them told me, "but we had to come back [to Iron Horse] one last time."

Iron Horse's happy hour bartending staff during their last shift.

Before long Iron Horse's slogan "Get Your A** on the Bar", that's emblazoned in paint right above it, rang true as a bartender climbed it to get on the shoulders of a customer. Another bartender handed them shots and the two of them tipped them back in unison. A swing also hung from the ceiling awaiting a rider while Iron-Horse's shot-bell rang time and again whenever the five-woman bartending team did a round of them together.

Bartender and bar-back on Iron Horse's last night.

As wild as the scene was, it's one that Iron Horse has always advertised as owner Szymczyk described when he shot back at a Yelper who once complained about the noise and the food. "We are primarily a loud party type, bar atmosphere, serving a mean burger, hot wings and similar pub fare at RIDICULOUSLY low prices for Lower Manhattan. Where else in the area can you get a beer for $2? Where else can you get a freshly made half-pound burger including a draft beer for $10?"

Bartender on Iron Horse's last night.

"We have four stars on Yelp," Szymczyk continued, "but it's not because our food will knock your socks off. Most of our customers come in looking for a good time, and to get away from the mundane of the every day while enjoying a simple decent meal at a low price."

Bartender climbing atop a customer and taking a shot with him in unison.

Patrons playing Twister where the pool table had been removed.

Iron Horse's security with longtime customer Bill Enright.

Iron Horse owner Zbigniew 'Ziggy' Szymczyk behind the bar under his bar trademark "Get Your Ass on the Bar" slogan.

Patrons during Iron Horse's final happy hour.