#gathered kurti

[baisacrafts]

Trendy Ethnic Styles: Sharara Frock, Gathered Kurti & Dabu Print Kurti

Ethnic fashion is all about celebrating traditions with style and comfort. Outfits like the sharara frock, gathered kurti, and dabu print kurti bring a fresh and vibrant look to your wardrobe. These trendy pieces are perfect for a variety of occasions, from festive celebrations to casual outings.

Sharara Frock

The sharara frock is a stunning outfit that combines the elegance of a frock with the flair of sharara bottoms. This outfit is perfect for weddings, parties, and festive events. With its flowing silhouette and intricate detailing, the sharara frock adds a royal touch to your ethnic look. Pair it with traditional jewelry and embellished footwear for a picture-perfect appearance.

Gathered Kurti

The gathered kurti is an excellent choice for women who want comfort without compromising on style. These kurtis are designed with pleats or gathers, giving them a flared and feminine look. Perfect for casual and semi-formal events, gathered kurti can be paired with leggings, jeans, or palazzos for a chic yet traditional vibe.

Dabu Print Kurti

If you’re a fan of hand-crafted designs, the dabu print kurti is a must-have. Known for its unique block-printed patterns using natural dyes, dabu print kurtis are a blend of tradition and sustainability. They are lightweight, breathable, and versatile, making them ideal for daily wear or small gatherings. Style them with silver jewelry and juttis for a rustic ethnic look.

How to Style These Outfits

Pair a sharara frock with statement earrings and a clutch for a festive-ready look.

Combine a gathered kurti with straight pants or denim for a modern twist.

Wear a dabu print kurti with oxidized jewelry and kolhapuris for a boho vibe.

Conclusion

Ethnic outfits like the sharara frock, gathered kurti, and dabu print kurti offer a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary style. Whether you’re dressing up for a grand occasion or keeping it simple for a casual day out, these pieces ensure you look graceful and fashionable.

[butchkaramazov]

guys and gays quick how do i give off "gay cousin" vibes

[baisacrafts01]

5 Must-Have Cotton Kurtis from Baisa Craft for Your Wardrobe

Are you in quest for the latest designed cotton kurtis that have a perfect combination of modern look? Then try the range of Baisa Crafts cotton kurtis for women. Baisa Craft is the building block for cotton kurtis for women, which are the perfect blend of style, comfort and class. Experience the Baisa Crafts Difference At Baisa Crafts, we take pride in hand block printed cotton kurtis and…

[thatlovinfeelin]

Where Do You Go? | one | Bradley Rooster Bradshaw

Your husband died in a training accident, unexpectedly. So what happens when you find yourself leaning on his best friend and wingman, Rooster Bradshaw?

You never imagined you’d be a widow at twenty-six. Never did you think you would actually get the news that your husband died during a mission, unable to eject properly. Your knees hit the floor so hard they could’ve cracked but you didn’t feel it at all. Not as you cried and screamed and begged. 

The house felt so empty after the reality that your husband was gone set in. Kurtis Chapman was a hell of a man, an even better pilot. He should still be in the house with you, laughing at some reality TV show, or helping you cook dinner. 

You weren’t sure how, but you called your parents and managed to tell them. They promised to take care of letting the rest of your family know. There was suddenly a funeral to plan, suddenly you had to bury your husband, the man you promised to love for your entire life. 

Somehow you found yourself dressed in black, seated in front of a bunch of people. Your eyes never left the wooden casket that held Kurtis, the love of your life. You hardly reacted when you were handed a folded up flag on behalf of the United States Navy. Flinching only when the twenty one gun salute was started. Tears rolled down your cheeks. All you could think about was the fact that he was gone.

Maybe some people would find it tacky to hold a wake in a bar. But the Hard Deck was the only place you could fathom having everyone gather together after saying goodbye to Kurtis. He loved it here. The two of you came almost every weekend to drink with friends and play pool together. It seemed like the only place that was even somewhat appropriate, because he would’ve loved it. 

You moved around the bar as if on some sort of autopilot. There was no loud music or the thunderous sounds of voices filling the bar. Everyone spoke in hushed tones and the jukebox was either off or the volume was turned way down, you weren’t entirely sure. 

As you stood there, all alone, you seemed to come back to yourself and the weight of the day fell onto your shoulders. So, you made your way towards the bar, in search of the only thing that made sense to you. 

“What do you need me to do?” Penny asked softly.

You took a deep breath, “I need a shot of something, anything….just not his favorite.”

She nodded and slid a shot glass towards you. You loved Penny like a big sister or a fun aunt. She looked after you when you first moved to San Diego and was the first person to introduce you to Kurtis. Now, looking at her, made tears burn in your eyes again. 

Giving a stiff nod, you slammed back the alcohol and walked away. You let out a deep breath and made your way back through the crowd of people. Each one of them gave you a sad look or apologized for your loss, as if that would make it any better. 

In the corner near the pool table stood all of Kurtis’ aviator friends from Top Gun. They all looked just as lost as you felt. For a moment you wondered who was in the air with him when he died. Whose voice was the last thing he heard before he died?

Suddenly you felt like the walls were closing in on you. Ducking out of the side door, you took a deep breath, trying to fill your lungs with air. Your chest heaved as you leaned over the railing. This couldn’t be happening, this couldn’t be your life anymore. 

How were you supposed to go on now? Logistically yes, you would be okay. You had more than enough money set aside, thanks to Kurtis being smart with your finances, and the life insurance plan. You would be able to keep the house, everything would be okay when it came to things like that. But how could you sleep in that bed knowing the other side would stay empty?

“Are you okay?” 

You turned around to see Bradley Bradshaw, better known by his callsign, Rooster. His hands were in his pockets as he stood just outside of the door, watching you carefully. Kurtis always liked Rooster, so much so that Rooster was the best man at your wedding. 

“No.”

“I’m sorry,” He replied.

“Were you with him?” You questioned, needing to know. 

He nodded slowly, which was all you needed to know. At least Rooster was in the air with him, he wasn’t alone. That made you feel better, or at least as much as anything could today. If anyone had to be in the air with him when it happened, you’re glad it was Rooster. 

You swallowed the lump in your throat before moving forward and wrapping your arms around the aviator. You just needed to be held by someone. But then it dawned on you that Rooster went through this with his dad. He lost him in a similar way. 

“I’m sorry if this brings back bad memories,” You whisper to him, holding onto him tightly. 

“You have nothing to be sorry for,” He replied, voice gravelly, “Are you going to be okay?”

You nodded and stepped away, “The house is taken care of. Kurtis had plenty of money stashed away too,” you let out a little laugh, “We were saving up to start a family.”

“He told me,” Rooster admitted. 

“Of course he did. He thought of you as a brother.”

“He really really loved you, for what it’s worth.”

“I love him,” You whisper back, “And it hurts like hell and I don’t know how I’m going to get through this.”

“You will,” Rooster promised, “We’ll all be here to help you, if you want us to.”

You nodded, leaning back into him for another hug. If you closed your eyes, you might think it was Kurtis hugging you, making that deep ache in your chest and belly go away for just a moment. You always felt safe with Rooster. He looked after you when Kurtis was deployed the last time. 

He felt like the calm in the middle of the storm that was your life now. 

“I don’t know where I’m supposed to go,” You admitted, “Nowhere feels like home.”

“My mom said the worst part was the house without my dad,” He told you softly, “You’ll get through this, I promise.”

You nodded, stepping away from Rooster and taking a deep breath. You just needed to get through today.You could figure everything else out later. Like packing up all of Kurtis’ things, or how you were supposed to keep living in the house that you planned on growing old together in. 

“I need to go back in there,” You announced, looking towards the door, “It’s rude for me to hide away.”

“Take all the time you need,” Rooster replied, “Everyone will understand that you need to hide for a little while.”

The weeks turned into months. Slowly creeping by as you cried yourself to sleep in an empty bed and looked at Kurtis’ things every day. By the third month, you couldn’t stand it anymore and went out to buy boxes. Even still, you couldn’t bring yourself to pack anything away. Part of you kept waiting for him to come back home, even though you knew he never would. 

You sat on the floor in the middle of your bedroom, looking at the closet. You didn’t know where to start, or if you even could start. Would he be mad at you for trying to move on? Would he hate you for trying to get on with your new life? Even if it was hurting you to do it?

A knock on your front door made you stop completely. No one came by anymore. Your house used to be like a revolving door of Aviators and other members of the Navy, but now everything was quiet. So quiet it almost hurt.

You slowly made your way to the door, not expecting to see anyone of any importance. Who would bother to come now that it was just you? Kurtis was the fun one. He was the one that had the parties and made all of the jokes. You were always quiet and fading into the background. 

You were sure you looked awful. Greasy hair piled on top of your head and eyes red and swollen from crying so much. But you didn’t care, you couldn’t bring yourself to even try to look presentable. Why would you? The man you loved was dead and gone. Buried in the cold ground.

You pushed your glasses up your nose before unlocking the door and swinging it open. You were more than shocked to see Rooster standing in civilian clothes on the other side. He looked the same as the last time you saw him, three months ago. 

“Hey,” He spoke carefully, “I just wanted to come check on you. We haven’t seen you in a while.”

You nodded, “Can’t bring myself to go out.”

“I understand that,” he replied, “Look, if you ever need anything, you know you can call me, right? I promised I’d take care of you.”

You nodded again, and for some reason took a step back and opened the door the rest of the way, “I’m trying to pack up some of his things….. But I don’t know where to start. I’m not even sure if I can start.”

He swallowed a thick lump in his throat. Rooster remembered how hard it was on his mom to pack up after his dad died, “Do you want me to help?”

You nod once more, “I can’t do it alone. I’m too scared of what I’m going to feel when I do.”

“Okay…show me the way.”

So, you let him into your house. All the way to the bedroom you kept trying to ignore all of the pictures of you and Kurtis on the walls. Your wedding photo hurt more than anything to look at. You were only twenty three, he was twenty five when you got married, Kurtis was still in flight school. 

As you led Rooster into your bedroom, you wondered if Kurtis would be okay with him being here. They were best friends, had been since school. If anyone was supposed to be here to help you from the Squadron, you hoped Kurtis really did pick Rooster. You felt comfortable with him. Standing in the middle of your bedroom, surrounded by empty boxes, your strange grief induced friendship with Bradley Rooster Bradshaw began.

[positivelyamazonian]

Hi 👋

Is there any online archive/collection of LaraxKurtis art and fics? I've tried searching Tumblr for art but it's so crap at finding anything...

Not anymore, there used to be a forum/website of the KTEB, a Kurtis fandom which gathered some recommendations, but went offline some time ago. You've to search specifically for it. In AO3 and Fanfiction.net you can search the tag LaraxKurtis, more or less, or Lara Croft x Kurtis Trent. Fanart is more complicated.

As for me, I've religiously tagged lartis every content I've posted/reblogged about them as a ship. It should work if you search it in my blog, but I also warn you it's a bottomless pit, I've been like... 10 years doing this.

Awesome fan art and fanfiction or TRAOD sequel are other tags I've used combined with lartis to make a more specific search. If this fails, anyway, it's Tumblr's search engine's fault, because I've done my best to keep them tagged.

Sad I can't help much more with this, but the ship had its glorious days back in 2003-2006, and after that it began to fade because of the trilogy being unfinished - I remember Crystal Dynamic's team stating outrightly that Kurtis was dead, when it didn't belong to them to make such statement -. I was late to that party because I was still learning English and move properly in the international fandom, but I did my best to contribute to it. It's a miracle it survives nowadays, shows how resilient some fandoms are sometimes.

Tell me if this works for you and if I can further help.

[mariacallous]

Thousands of people braved intense heat to commemorate the anniversary of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide and attend the mass burial of 14 recently identified victims at the Srebrenica Memorial Centre in eastern Bosnia on Thursday.

They were killed in July 1995 in a series of massacres by Bosnian Serb forces that left more than 8,000 Bosniak boys and men dead. The massacres have been classified as genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia, ICTY.

Munira Subasic, president of the Mothers of Srebrenica association, warned that the world “has not learned anything” since World War II.

“Srebrenica is proof of that, and we mothers strive to send a message and warn others so a crime like Srebrenica is never repeated,” Subasic said, speaking in front of foreign and domestic delegations gathered for the memorial event at the Srebrenica Memorial Centre.

She also warned of genocide denial, which remains widespread in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the former Yugoslav region.

So far, 6,751 genocide victims have been buried at the Srebrenica Memorial Centre. Another 250 victims have been buried at local cemeteries on the decision of surviving family members.

However, in Bosnia, a day of mourning for Srebrenica is only officially commemorated in the country’s Bosniak and Croat-dominated Federation entity. Bosnian Serbs have blocked the state-level Council of Ministers from declaring a day of mourning across the whole country.

After the UN General Assembly voted in May to establish July 11 as an International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica, the 29th anniversary is being marked in other countries too. For the first time, it will be commemorated at a high-level event at the United Nations in New York.

In Serbia on Wednesday evening, peace group Women in Black held a silent vigil in the centre of Belgrade, urging Serbia to establish annual an Srebrenica Genocide Remembrance Day, although the government refuses to classify the massacres by Bosnian Serb forces as genocide.

In Montenegro, President Jakov Milatovic wrote on X that the suffering of “the innocent Srebrenica victims serves as a painful warning to today’s generations that the evil of July 1995 must never be repeated.” The anniversary was also marked by the country’s Bosniak Council in the capital Podgorica on Thursday. Council president Suljo Mustafic said at the event that “Srebrenica is the saddest word in our language, and Potocari [where the bodies of thousands of victims are buried] is the biggest grave in our history”.

The event was attended by some representatives of ruling and opposition parties and by the mayor of Podgorica, Olivera Injac.

In Pristina in Kosovo on Thursday, parliament held a special session in commemoration of Srebrenica genocide victims and approved a statement on the UN resolution. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Albin Kurti joined a commemoration ceremony organised by the Institute of History.

In his speech, Kurti expressed solidarity and support to Bosnian people. “This crime left open wounds for thousands of Bosnian families, just as it left wounds on humanity’s conscience. Therefore, every anniversary renews the pain, not only for the Bosnian people, but also for us, the people of Kosovo, who experienced the horrors of war 25 years ago,” Kurti said.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued a presidential decree on Wednesday declaring that July 11 will be commemorated as Srebrenica Genocide Remembrance Day.

“July 11, accepted as the ‘International Day of Reflection and Remembrance of the Srebrenica Genocide,’ will be commemorated in our country to share the pain, condemn genocide and crimes against humanity, and raise global awareness through special remembrance events, educational activities, and public awareness initiatives in honour of the victims of the Srebrenica genocide,” the decree said.

In recent years, opposition parties and Turkish Bosniak NGOs have been calling on the Turkish government to recognise the Srebrenica massacres as genocide and to declare July 11 a genocide remembrance day.

In 2023, however, parties in Erdogan’s alliance rejected an opposition bill to recognise the 1995 massacres as genocide, sparking angry exchanges in the Turkish parliament and disappointment in Bosnia.

People in North Macedonia will also participate in the July 11 commemorations. On Thursday, in the capital Skopje, the Bosniak National Council will organise its annual commemorative March for Srebrenica.

Memorial events are also being held in some Western European cities, including Bradford in England, where a “Remembering Srebrenica” flag is being raised in the City Park.

[maggotfagg0t]

HiddenCatacombs discord server!

If you want to be updated more on the topic of the Slenderverse series that I am working on please join this discord server. It’s also a place where you can speak about Slenderverse related topics in general and also other interests of yours! It’s a safespace for anyone who needs it. So if you want to support me please join.

If you haven’t heard about hiddenCatacombs here’s what it is

hiddenCatacombs is a little Slenderverse series that me and one other person our working on making, it follows three main characters, Kurtis, Cain, and Robbie. It is an urban exploring based channel, where the channel was made to log Kurtis’s explorations of abandoned places and other things such as storm drains. If you’ve watched other Slenderverse related things I bet you can gather that the channel ends up being more than just this.

Discord server link:

https://discord.com/invite/5TEhyxnQau

If that doesn’t work here is my discord: sobertober

Also follow the hiddenCatacombs tumblr: @hiddencatacombs

And please the YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@hiddenCatacombs?si=l77v7KiFi_XSRzkf

[khwabeedahh]

a black sequin kurti to catch the sunlight with a subtle, enchanting shimmer; black and silver bangles that create a melody as they jingle softly on the wrists, adding a delicate touch to her ensemble; silver earrings gracefully dangling from her ears, catching the light; a beautifully crafted neckpiece adorning her neck with its intricate design complementing the outfit's elegance; a small black bindi resting on her forehead, adding a hint of traditional charm; delicate mehndi designs on her hands speaking of love and festivity; a touch of kohl around her eyes embodying poise as she moves through the morning gathering

[somer-writes]

What are your preferred YouTubers/Youtube Channels to consume content regularly?

I watch a lot while I clean/draw/sew usually as background noise!

Mythical kitchen -cooking

how to drink - mixology

overly sarcastic productions - literature

red letter media - movies

kurtis Conner, drew gooden, Danny Gonzales - commentary

trixie mattel - drag

fundie fridays - fundie snark

watcher - ghost hunting

game grumps - let’s play compilations

defunctland - docuseries

the command zone - magic the gathering

40k in 40 min - war-hammer

jenna marbles - the one true beautuber

what do you like to watch?

[kavitameenasingletap]

Kurti for women

Product Overview

Indian women look glistening in their traditional dresses and that attracts women across the world. The wraps and covers which they wear have amazing appeal and fabulous artwork, which makes Indian dresses hard to resist.

But while having a close discussion with my friends in India, I witnessed that the dressing style has taken a change rather it has taken a leap to retain both ethnicity and modern fashion.

We have seen the rise in a number of new dresses that have both ethnic look and modern appeal and one such is the kurti. Yes, it is the new trend which has an Indianized western look. Women of today have started to embrace it in their daily lives. Whether it is their workplace or a day trip to Goa or may be attending a tea-party, more kurti designs  are easily visible.

Why do Indian women love to wear Kurtis?

Kurta has been in the fashion line for the past few decades and it is one of the best choices in the women's wardrobe. I was a little puzzled to find out some weird reason for different kurti designs becoming popular these days.

Let’s read on some exquisite ideas of Kurti being popular :- 

A dress that is universally popular:- When we browse loads of designer kurti online, it might make us amaze, why kurti and not salwar, if we like being ethnic. But Indian culture is liberal and conservative at the same time, we accept food, ideas, traditions and dresses whole-heartedly. So keeping this mind Kurti exhibits both traits of being ethnic and westernised.

Where comfort meets fashion:- While I was searching for some popular kurti online in India, I found that all designers have kept one thing in mind while weaving their creations and it is definitely comfort. Yes, Kurtis are very comfortable to wear and not tight or crouched like those body hugging dresses. At the same time, you get a wide range of styles to choose that are suitable for different occasions.

A pocket-friendly dress:- Kurtis are not heavy on the pocket. A comfy daily wear kurti may be available at the online stores at Rs. 200 and it can range up to Rs. 5000 for a silk sequined party-wear. So you have kurtis for every budget.

Pair up with any accessories:- One of the popular reasons that I have come across while discussing with a few Indian friends of mine is that Kurti is one such outfit that is easy to accessorise. Depending on the sense of style, the cut of your kurti and the occasion you like to wear, it is possible to pair it with junk jewellery, may be gold or silver. 

Types of Kurtis:- 

1. Anarkali Kurti

Inspired by the Mughal era, Anarkali Kurtis are fitted on the bust and flare out towards the hem, creating a frock-like silhouette. They are perfect for festive occasions and weddings. Pair them with churidars and statement earrings for a classic look.

2. Straight Cut Kurti

Straight-cut Kurtis is a staple in every wardrobe, offering a sleek and elegant look. They are versatile and can be paired with jeans, leggings, or palazzos. Accessorise with minimal jewellery for a sophisticated look.

3. Asymmetrical Kurti

With no defined hemline, asymmetrical Kurtis are trendy. They are ideal for parties and casual gatherings. Pair them with fitted pants and statement footwear for a contemporary look.

4. Kaftan Style Kurti

Known for their comfort, Kaftan Kurtis are loose and breezy, often featuring a drawstring at the waist. They are perfect for a relaxed day out or a beach holiday. Pair them with sandals and boho accessories for a laid-back look.

5. Shirt Collar Kurti

Blending the formal shirt style with traditional kurtis, this type comes with a collar and often features button-down fronts. It’s perfect for office wear and can be paired with jeans or trousers.

6. Jacket Style Kurti

This style comes with an attached or detachable jacket, adding a layer of sophistication. They are suitable for both casual and formal events. Pair them with palazzos or straight pants for a refined look.

7. Cape Style Kurti

Cape-style kurtis incorporate a cape-like feature, either attached to the shoulders or as an additional layer over the kurti. This style adds a dramatic flair and is perfect for making a fashion statement. The cape can be of varying lengths and is often adorned with intricate designs or embellishments. These kurtis are great for festive occasions or fashion-forward events and can be paired with straight-cut pants or skirts for a chic, modern look.

8. Floor Length/Gown Style Kurti

Elegant and regal, these Kurtis are similar to evening gowns. They are perfect for formal events and weddings. Pair them with minimal jewellery and heels for a sophisticated look.

9. Chikankari Kurti

Known for their delicate embroidery, Chikankari Kurtis are a symbol of elegance. They are perfect for traditional events. Pair them with light-coloured bottoms and ethnic jewellery.

10. Peplum Kurti

Peplum kurtis feature a flared ruffle attached at the waist, creating a playful and trendy silhouette. This style adds a touch of Western fashion to the traditional kurta and is perfect for those who love a fusion look. Peplum kurtis are great for casual outings, parties, or even office wear when styled appropriately. They pair well with slim-fit pants or jeggings, balancing the flared bottom.

CONCLUSION 

Each kurti style in our list offers a unique way to express your style and preferences. From the playful vibrancy of tie-dye to the elegant sophistication of Chikankari, there’s a kurti for every occasion, mood, and personality. Embrace the diversity of these styles and find the perfect kurti to add to your wardrobe. Happy styling!

[baisacrafts]

Elevate Your Style with a Stunning Sharara Frock and Gathered Kurti Pant Se

When it comes to adding a touch of elegance to your wardrobe, Indian fashion has something special to offer. From the beautiful sharara frock to the stylish kurti pant set, and the chic gathered kurti, these outfits are perfect for a variety of occasions. In this blog post, we’ll explore these trendy outfits and how you can incorporate them into your daily fashion.

Sharara Frock :

The sharara frock is a beautiful fusion of traditional and contemporary styles. With a long, flowing frock and wide-legged sharara pants, this outfit provides both comfort and grace. The sharara frock can be worn for weddings, festivals, or even casual gatherings. It’s often designed with intricate embroidery or embellishments to give it a royal feel, making you stand out on any occasion.

Pair your sharara frock with statement earrings and a sleek clutch to complete the look. You can also experiment with different colors to match your personal style, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues.

Kurti Pant Set :

A kurti pant set is a versatile outfit that can be worn to both formal and casual events. The kurti, often paired with stylish pants, offers a simple yet elegant appearance. These sets are available in a variety of styles, from straight-cut kurtis to anarkali kurtis, allowing you to choose the one that suits your body type and occasion.

Kurti pant set are ideal for office wear, family functions, or even casual outings. You can choose a cotton kurti for the summer months or a velvet kurti for a more festive look. Pairing it with matching accessories, like a dupatta or a bold necklace, can elevate the entire look.

Gathered Kurti :

The gathered kurti is another trendy outfit that is gaining popularity for its comfort and style. The gathered design adds volume to the kurti, giving it a flattering shape and making it a go-to option for any casual or semi-formal event. Whether you choose a simple gathered kurti or one with delicate embroidery, it’s easy to see why this outfit is so popular.

A gathered kurti is perfect for the warmer months, as it offers breathability and ease of movement. Pair it with leggings, palazzos, or even jeans for a stylish look. Don't forget to accessorize with jhumkas or a delicate bracelet to enhance the outfit.

Conclusion:

The sharara frock, kurti pant set, and gathered kurti are all fashionable options that every wardrobe can benefit from. Whether you're attending a wedding, a family function, or just a casual get-together, these outfits allow you to feel stylish and comfortable. So, embrace these trends and experiment with different styles and accessories to create looks that are uniquely yours.

[theressomethinghappeninginparis]

It's been a while.

Let me tell you why. I left the Croft Manor and went to Utah.

I know, it's a leap of faith I took, but it was worth it. I have retrieved knowledge and information and shared all I know with Lara Croft as well as with Mister Trent. I needed a day's rest at the Croft Manor and I felt slightly ashamed, but I am no superwoman like Lara, and my knee is still throbbing. I hope I haven't relocated anything, lol.

Transcript of the first, second and third page:

Here's a whole list of things I asked Lara Croft. She was kind enough to sit by me while I was sipping tea, moaning, and trying to recover from *points at everything*. Q: The piece of the Sanglyph I have given you, what do you know about it? A: From what I have gathered: the Sanglyph is a relic created by Eckhardt. You surely crossed paths with this psycho already. It's a disc that can be parted into five pieces. To prevent mortals from using it, he was hiding it inside the five Obscura Paintings. Q: So the paintings were his idea, too? A: He commissioned to get them painted andhid the pieces in there until his glovey-dovey hands could get onto a Nephilim. (me: the Lux Veritatis later seized them, let them be painted over by Brother Obscura, and scattered them). Q: This guy's not normal, right? A: Best actor in history. No, he's neither normal nor human. He was. With a deal he was made immortal, and the cost was reviving the Nephilim race. He's a vessel for over 500 years of evil, alchemy and hatred for humans. And the LV. Q: The Lux Veritatis were a pain in his life? A: You guessed it.They tried anything to stop him, even putting him in a ditch for several hundread years until an Ally bomb hit the castle and he could break free. The Shards were recollected by Heissturm, who gave them to his son. I think you've met him already. Q: If you mean Kurtis- yes, I've read about him. But I haven't had a chance to talk to him yet. A: In case you can offer something, he'll talk. He loves teamwork. (Lara chuckles, is that a smile?) Get the Sanglyph to him and ask him to get it here, at some point. I trust him, he'll do so. (me: I think we all know Lara Croft will not hesitate to track me down and shoot me if I were to disappear with it, so I guess...it'll do.) Q: (...) Thank you, again. What do you know about him? A: He's a tough cookie, a mercenary. Who is out for revenge. All he can think of now is to stuff Eckhardt's and his allies' faces with bullets or sever their heads. He was of great help, although I took care of Eckhardt first...anyway. He was of great help, especially in our escape out of the Louvre. Q: Speaking of Louvre- the killings in Paris and Prague. Was that Eckhardt? A: Not all of them. The murder of Werner was Karel (she looks aside). He's almost weirder than Eckhardt, I don't know much if anything about him. And, he is, you won't believe it, a shapeshifter. These Nephilim guys (she looks at me again) are a whole lot of strange. Q: (...) You mentioned the Shards... A: Kurtis knows way more. All I know is that they're way too scary to Eckhardt. You know, maybe bring him his, the one I have...he surely misses it. Q: Are you sure he wants to talk to me? Kurtis, I mean? A: If you have trouble convincing him with the Periapt Shard, just tell him (she smiles) I'd love to see him again. That'll convince him (she gets up to leave), trust me.

Transcript of the fourth page: This is all I can write in this journal. We talked a bit more, obviously, and she handed me Kurtis' contact information. He should be in Utah now, but I have his number in case I don't find him at home- it's somewhere in dumbfuck nowhere. Lara lets me stay for as long as I want and I can roam the Manor's museums (or "rooms" like Lara calls them") freely. I got a ticket to visit the USA, and am preparing a catalogue of questions for Kurtis Trent. I kind of hope he lets me write down more. In case he gets back to being a ghost he might allow me to publish more. It feels good to not be on edge all the time. Not having a maniac roam the streets is nicer than I ever imagined. I feel relief.

I'll take some rest and gather nerves and strength for the- hopefully- last trip regarding this case. I want it to be over, it's exhausting.

Transcript of the fifth and sixth page: Questions for Mister Trent: 1. What do you know about Eckhardt and what's he to do with the LV? 2. What are the Lux veritatis anyway? Why was it founded and where is everybody? 3. Your father Heissturm, is he involved? 4. How did you cross paths with Lara Croft? 5. The Periapt Shards- what are they made of? Do they really kill immortals? 6. The Nephilim are conected, just like the Sleeper. But what about the guys in the Sanitarium? 7. The guy in cell 42, know him? And the "Nephilim Proto" he mentioned?

I'm on my way to Utah. Lara was on a call fow a few hours with what I think was Kurtis, had a good laugh, and mentioned that I'll hand him something and he should leave me in one piece. Really reassuring...she handed me one of the Shards. Such a weird...thing. It is made of crystal I believe and is purple-ish black-ish depending on the light. The lionhead makes the Shard heavy to carry and I can hold it, but itfeels like it carries a weight, maybe even a metaphorical one, like there's a power stored within. Absolutely supernatural and strange. I'll try to sleep now. Miss Croft has sent me all my luggage and food, along with a return ticket and her direct contacts. She was so happy to have the piece of the Sanglyph or rather the whole thing now, but kinda happier to speak to Kurtis.

Is it her stubbornness that keeps her from visiting him herself?

Transcript of the seventh and eighth page: I literally got a map to Kurtis place. He is in the middle of nowhere. of course. I'm not kidding: Lara printed me a map I found in the folder she put my tickets in. It's more of a guide and she got me a driver to get me there. Why the fuck is Mister trent living in dumbfuck nowhere? Don't ask about the sigils, the driver could read them, but Lara didn't bother explaining.

After several hours of driving in the middle of the fucking desert and taking the wrong way once I found it. I found him. Was greeted with a gun to my face until I mentioned Lara's password-sentence: Move along, mon chère. I am still surprised he didn't shoot me on sight.

The weapons of the Lux Veritatis: Kurtis has given me a detailed description of the tools the LV have used and/or continue to use. It's surely not all of them.

Betyl (training stones) Betyl is an ancient metal that the LV shape to resemble arrowheads. Most of the time there are engravings in them and they're used as training device for the Shirugai. They have some main skills:

guide (compass)

impulse (attack)

crisscross (whatever)

pattern (uhm?)

There are also five stages of control: 1. Aronsäid 2. Gyllais 3. Tuleic 4. Ömsa 5. Veruta

And of course Mister Trent didn't bother elaborating. I guess he's too busy being excited to get the Shard and then bring it to Lara- just out of kindness with no self-interest, of course.

Shirugai Translated as throw-star. The LV have their own invention, it's a disc-like thing with five spikes on the edhe. These blades are retractable. The disk is being held by putting five fingers through the holes in the middle. A shirugai is connected to a single member of the Lux Veritatis and can only be used by them. It's controlled via telepathy and can be used within a radius.

The Betyl stones are not needed if the member has enough skills. I bit my tongue to not imply Kurtis surely needed them. The blades are so sharp they can cut through steel. Although fairly popular the shirugai has seen not much use: there's barely people left that can more than just hover it.

Transcript of the tenth page: The hut is pretty small and Kurtis seems to live here by himself. When I explained to him I was accidentally crossing paths with this whole murder plot he laughed and admired my skill to stay alive. I mentioned Miss Croft cleared the path for me, and he replied that anything that gets in her way dies, and he barely dodged that fate himself. He is a grim dude who listens to Nirvana and fits perfectly to Lara's love for Nine Inch Nails. Depeche Mode anyone? I feel like he never has visitors- his tables are full of books on mysticism and ancient history. And guns. Holy shit guns.

Not too inviting, but he answered all I wanted to know and will fly back with me to London and I will continue further to Paris. Back home. At last.

Forgive me, the rest of the interview is there, but I am so, so tired. Here is the first question: Q: What do you know about Eckhardt and what does that have to do with the LV? Eckhardt is an old-ass dude who is about 600 years old. He made a deal with the Nephilim to help them take over the world - he is a bit insane- and in return, they made him immortal (he takes a smoke). The LV always wanted to prevent evil int his world, and an alchemist that seeks for organs and organ harvest is not the good guy. After being put in chains in a castle pit an Ally bomber freed him (he looks at me and raises a brow), definitely planned, and he plotted revenge.

I will continue my notes tomorrow. It's way past midnight. I nudged a talk on Lara Croft and am listening to Mister Kurtis talk about her in admiration. I wonder. What keeps them from hanging out? Both of them shoot first and ask questions later. Perfect match if you ask me.

[aash-bout24]

The Enduring Elegance of Embroidered Kurti Sets with Sharara and Dupatta

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**Kurti Magic**

The kurti itself can come in a variety of lengths and styles. Shorter kurtis with a cropped or high-low hem are perfect for a breezy summer look, while longer kurtas offer a more formal silhouette. For a contemporary touch, asymmetrical cuts and off-the-shoulder designs are making waves.

**Sharara Style**

Sharara pants, the quintessential complement to the embroidered kurti, are experiencing a revival. These pants feature a wider leg from the knee down, creating a flattering and graceful drape. While classic shararas with intricate detailing are still in vogue, simpler, flowy styles are gaining popularity for their effortless elegance.

Dupatta Delights

The dupatta, the long scarf that completes the ensemble, offers endless possibilities for self-expression. Sheer dupattas with heavy embroidery add a touch of grandeur, while lighter fabrics with delicate work provide a more understated look. Experimenting with draping styles, from the classic over-the-shoulder to the more contemporary pleated pallu, allows for further personalization.

Embroidered Elegance *The beauty of the embroidered kurti with sharara and dupatta lies in its versatility. This ensemble can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. With the right choice of fabrics, colors, and embellishments, it can be adapted to suit any personal style. So, whether you're looking for a show-stopping outfit for a wedding or a comfortable yet stylish ensemble for a day out, the embroidered kurti set with sharara and dupatta is a timeless trend that offers something for everyone.

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[caltropspress]

FEEDBACK LOOP #12: AJ Suede's "Most Black Superheroes"

Hands of onyx—my magnetic field fuck up electronics, I’m shielded—they feel it fusing. Born from nothing, sudden futures.

—ELUCID, “Ghoulie” (2022)

Boogying to my Walkman with the S on my chest.

—Redman, “A Day of Sooperman Lover” (1992)

Charlie Parker was a great electrician who went around wiring people.

—Bob Kaufman, “Fragment” (1959)

Although electricity, like the air around us, seems very impalpable, appealing to so few of the senses, it is yet capable of being measured…

—Lewis Latimer, from Incandescent Electric Lighting: A Practical Description of the Edison System (1890)

1.

Black superheroes harness power outside themselves—channeling it, conducting it—becoming maestros of electro-ultra-magnetics, masters of ceremony. Amiri Baraka assessed the drumming of Sonny Murray, speaking of “his body-ness, his physicality in the music,” concluding that Murray was “a conductor of energies.” AJ Suede has reinvented himself as one Ark Flashington, and he’s cold lampin’. On “South Bronx,” KRS-One describes how “power from a streetlight made the place dark.” A cold lamp is one drained of its energy—its electricity siphoned to illegal sources. Think of New York City going dark during the blackout of July 13, 1977. Think of how the subsequent looting led to audio equipment ending up in the hands of budding creators. Think of the scene in Stan Lathan’s Beat Street from 1984: how they run wires from the abandoned building in the Bronx to a lamppost. The building, burnt out five times by an arsonist landlord collecting on insurance money, is given new life. The electricity stolen from the lamppost powers Kenny’s turntables and gets the party jumping. Jeff Chang details how the Ghetto Brothers played on the block by “plugging their amps into the lampposts.” He quotes Kool Herc divulging how he did the same, sharing a hack he’d learned watching construction workers: “I had a big McIntosh amp…300 watts per channel. As the juice start coming, man, the lights start dimming.” Light and dark merge like the twisting of two frayed wires. Psycho Les promised to “pump more watts than any RadioShack” on the Beatnuts’ “World’s Famous,” and all these examples prove how potent tinkering can be: a life-giving force, a revived pulse.

2. 

The precedent for suggesting superheroic poetics in hip-hop is congenital. Captain Sky’s “Super Sporm” traveled through the vas deferens (vas def?—mos def!) in 1978, smooth operations and muscle contractions assured its arrival in Big Bank Hank’s “Rapper’s Delight” lyrics in 1980 (“I can bust you out with my super sperm…”), and Kurtis Blow accepted the secretions in 1985 (the same year he told us, coincidentally, AJ is cool—no question). Seminal indeed!

Redman’s “A Day of Sooperman Lover” (1992) is Blowfly-level spoofing—not so heroic or chivalric as the song turns from rescuing a kitty cat to a Crying Game situation where our caped crusader unexpectedly “felt the bozack” of his beloved. Worth noting that when Reggie “dipped into [his] Sooperlover suit” it was accompanied by a “quick flash.” The rendezvous might’ve been chaotic but it was no Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos. Suede needs that steel to be ultra-conductive—something like Tricky’s “Black Steel” rendition. Something similar to “The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel” (1981). Flash’s early opus of the scratch and prismatic turntablism relied on disassembly of The Official Adventures of Flash Gordon (1966) record as much as it did disco data and funk fodder. Look up in the sky—yeah, above the clouds like Gang Starr in ’98, with Preemo pulling from Superman: The Man from Krypton, a 1978 children’s record.

The fixation probably apexed with the Last Emperor’s “Secret Wars.” “What if I had the power to gather all of my favorite MCs,” he proposed, “with the illest comic book characters and they became archenemies?” The original writing and recording of “Secret Wars” dates back to 1995 and ’96. Last Emp told David Ma that MCs and superheroes both operate as “modern day mythology.” Hip-hop heads decolonized comic conventions like Fanon, placing Black Masks over White Skins: Jean Grae, Ironman, MF DOOM, et cetera, and it don’t stop, and it can’t stop. 

3.

The fact that most Black superheroes use electricity speaks to a historical tendency for [particularly non-Black] comic writers and illustrators to codify stereotyped representations of identity. AJ Suede, though, celebrates the commonality of so many Black superheroes with an emphasis on their weaponizing of electricity. Purveyors of potent defenses (a double portion of protection, ELUCID would say) whose Main Source of power derives from an [ec]static breaking of atoms.

Suede deads the myth of superpredator and elevates a superhero mythopoeia super-suited to an Age of Incendiary Devices. He assembles a team (in hip-hop we might call it a crew) of comic book characters to demonstrate that most Black superheroes use electricity. Whether he presents this as a tired trope or point of pride is left ambiguous, but I prefer to think of it as a salute to the commonality.

4.

AJ Suede holds a “couple of lanterns, lighting the path,” and the desire path leads us to Edison’s Lab in Menlo Park, New Jeruzalem. It was there that Lewis Latimer took eight steps to perfecting the carbon filament after Edison caught the L. Latimer literally wrote the book on electric light: Incandescent Electric Lighting: A Practical Description of the Edison System. History, as it goes, has made Latimer the lesser-known, but we can measure his impact in such luminaries as Bigg Jus. “I blow mics like filaments,” Jus rapped on CoFlow’s “Silence.” “I’m tungsten light within that causes something.” Something. What it causes must be too ineffable. Suede describes his “armor like tungsten, wolfram, / Wonder who indestructible.” Last Emp teased, Inconceivable? Unbelievable? On “Electric Relaxation,” Q-Tip claimed to be “stronger than Teflon.” We can thank Lewis Latimer for the threaded socket as well. See it on the cover of the Project Blowed compilation from 1995: a bare bulb hanging down, suspended in a white void, hinting at the empty-headed ingenuity of the most virtuosic freestyles to emerge from the MCs serving the Good Life. “There’s something special inside of my mental cargo vessel,” Aceyalone raps on “I Think,” “and it runs on lethal, ethyl methane, profane, / Kinda like a flux capacitor.” He thinks—bright bulb idea sharer. 88 MPH stream-of-consciousness thoughts. 1.21 gigawatts powered by either plutonium or hooked pole + lightning bolt. 

5.

Granville T. Woods got labeled “Black Edison,” but—actual fact—Thomas Alva should’ve been dubbed “White Woods.” Edison tried to jack Woods’ steez, claiming ownership (as oppressors are wont to do) to his patents, but Woods was having none of that litigious noise and won in court. Edison wanted credit for a creation that wasn’t his, but Woods was like, “That goddamn credit? Dead it, / You think a white inventor paying you back?—shit, forget it!” With his Synchronous Multiplex Railway Telegraph, Woods equipped trains with magnetic forces for the purpose of communication long before DONDI and FUTURA were bombing ’em.

And what was Edison up to in the meantime? He produced an 1896 film, The Watermelon Eating Contest, which featured “two of the colored gentry eating melon on a wager.” In 1905, he promulgated a worser racial cinematic vision with the Edwin S. Porter-directed The Watermelon Patch, which depicts a melon heist by “darkies” and a pursuit of the thieves by scarecrows-turned-skeletons. Subsequently, we see bloodhounds and cakewalking. On “Most Black Superheroes,” AJ Suede circumvents the mob. He moves “left with the science, but right with the math.” Red-right, white-left, Buck 65 rapped in 1999, memorizing his RCA cables. The wrath of Suede’s math is on par with Jeru’s—he knows how and when to plug in, to plug tune, when to summon storms from the grass surrounding the watermelon patch.

6.

That AJ Suede is singing about Black superheroes distracts from his own heroics. Behind his “Ark Flashington” alter ego, Suede gathers the “harvest abundant [for] feeding the village.” The pun on “arc” weds his electrifying powers to “ark” in a Noachian sense. “Ark,” from the Latin arca, meaning “chest,” alludes to a coffer for storing secrets (abilities, identities) or a chest in an anatomical or figurative sense: the seat of emotional strength and fortitude. The “ark” in Ark Flashington, there-to-the-fore, is the chest from which AJ Suede’s arcane language springs. As purple lightning flashed and purple haze lifted, Cam’ron rapped on 2004’s “More Gangsta Music” about “walk[ing] around like [he’s] got an S on [his] chest.” He had the “Tec on [his] left,” but it’s not a TEC-9 in Suede’s case; it’s a high-voltage technology.

7.

As AJ Suede welds words together, there’s the constant risk of an arc flash—something, as his loyal listeners, we’d masochistically welcome. The way he tangles spools of l’s (“billionaire”; “still feel”) and coils conductive short-u’s (“deductibles”; “government”; “clusterfuckable”; “but”; “wonderful”) leaves us feeling vaporized. (We caught the toxic fume vapors!) 

As such, we should come correct in PPE. Contact artist Lonnie Holley to commission a replica of his “African Mask” (2004)—a welder’s mask, actually, wreathed by a radial tire. Ribbons of rubber and sockets hanging like talismans and outlet boxes. This assemblage of scraps links [literally] the millennia-old metallurgy in Nigeria with the 20th century segregated workforce at Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham. Rockin’ the protective Holley headpiece will have you “feel[ing] wonderful,” as Suede says. You’ll be ready to drop a gem on ’em or, conversely, run the joules. You’ll look like the masked figure on the cover of Ark Flashington—all psychedelic oversaturation and electromagnetic energy exuding outward. Replace the S on your chest with the same inflammable material emblem from Massive Attack’s debut—embrace a “Safe from Harm” simmering beneath the surface of your epidermis.

8.

“Alternating current in the blood gets channeled,” AJ Suede raps as he morphs verb into noun. You’re sitting on your sofa alongside Canibus tuning into Channel Zero, but the cathode-ray tube is on the fritz. Screen all fulla snow. Suede juxtaposes the light and dark of alternating current electricity in our TV sets and—like David Lynch—reveals the light and dark media representations of humanity. 

The current carries “through the fingertips and eyes, / Talking to the skies” like Lynch settles his camera on #6 utility poles. Over the course of his career, the Twin Peaks director has been partial to electricity. “I don’t know why all people aren’t fascinated with it,” he said in 2006. “It makes beautiful sounds, and it makes a lot of times some incredible light. It runs many things in our world, and it’s beautiful. It’s sometimes dangerous, but it’s magical. It’s such a power….” He speaks to the ethos of Ark Flashington, and Suede’s “Most Black Superheroes” delves headlong into the racial components. Sure, Lynch has the soot-blackened faces of the Woodsmen (“Gotta light?” one infamously asks). He hideously birthed the “jumping man” (leaping tall buildings in a single bound…) above the convenience store in Fire Walk With Me (1992). The “jumping man” is acted by Carlton Lee Russell, a Black man, though he wears a mask of white plaster. A second Black man, credited fittingly as “the electrician,” is also present in that surreal scene. But these racial undertones are just that—rarely discussed contexts secondary to Lynch’s infatuation with the direction of electron flow and the nature of good and evil. No more than minstrelsy of the manic and unhinged, if that. AJ Suede sacrifices everything on the gallows-like altar of a transmission tower in order to get us closer to overstanding.

9.

Remember how they treated Black soldiers after Nam? By simply raising the question, AJ Suede raises hell and reminds us. “Never give help,” he says, subverting the saves-the-day super duty tough work of your typical superheroes, “’cause they don’t give a damn.” History is a weapon which can be used to recognize the difference between a worthy rescue and an informed recusal.

In Seize the Time (1970), Bobby Seale’s account of his days developing the Black Panther Party, a current navigates through his narrative—“current” in both senses: contemporaneous to his volatile times and the flow of charged particles. Writing at the height of the Black Power movement [calculate Black power in wattage], he notes that our “modern, highly technological society” includes pervasive “electronic surveillance,” in addition to and aiding the efforts of “cops armed and equipped for overkill.” Electricity found its path into his earlier employment struggles, too. “I worked at Kaiser Aerospace Electronics near Oakland,” he writes. “It involve[d] testing for microscopic cracks in metals by a complicated chemical and magnetic process.” Despite mastering the trade and finding the knowledge rewarding, he quit a little over a year later because he conscientiously objected to where the company was moving: “[T]he war was going on and I felt I was aiding the government’s operation.” Government clusterfuckable, in Suede’s words. Later, as Seale was transported by US Marshals across state lines, he spent a layover in a Salt Lake City lockup, what he refers to as “a completely electronic jail.” The future shock of his detainment, with its “doors [that] opened and closed electronically”—absent the necessity of any human touch—reminded him of a “streamlined concentration camp.” “I was on a political charge,” he writes [my emphasis]—quarks, protons, and electrons notwithstanding—and ultimately this seeming scientifikal fact limits his options. “If I escaped,” he reasoned, “everybody would believe I was guilty of all that jive, those trumped-up charges. At the same time I knew darn well the power structure is going to move and do everything they can to try to convict me and railroad me into prison and the electric chair.” And there’s no glory in damning yourself to the living/dying embodiment of Eric Haze’s iconic Death Row Records logo, is there?

10.

Black people must ultimately come to realize that such coalitions, such alliances have not been in their interest…[I]n fact, the whites enter the alliance in many cases precisely to impede that progress.

—Kwame Ture and Charles V. Hamilton, Black Power: The Politics of Liberation in America (1967)

Ture and Hamilton point to labor unions to emphasize “the treacherous nature of coalitions.” As unions achieved collective bargaining rights nationwide, Black workers experienced “deterioration.” In the 1940s, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (Suede’s new crew name, if I had my way) got their victory, but Black laborers were contracted out of the union. Ture and Hamilton quote Myrna Bain: “The excuse was advanced that, since their union contract specified ‘whites only,’ they could not and would not change this to provide continued employment for the Negroes who were at the plant before the union was recognized.”

“Fuck what you got,” AJ Suede raps, liberals, well-wishers, and allies “can’t change spots.” In fact, it’s not a matter of “can’t”—they won’t change spots. The only math they know is a zero-sum game. “After handshakes people still change plans,” so like Public Enemy said, you can’t truss it. 

11.

What recourse does AJ Suede have? He signals the skies and gathers the [Black] powers available to him. He recruits Dwayne McDuffie and Robert L. Washington III’s Static, giving props to Virgil Hawkins’ namesake static bolts that sizzle and criss-cross into a Malik El-Shabazz “X” on the front panel of his cap. He hangs a banner from the 1994 inaugural issue: YOU DON’T START NONE THERE WON’T BE NONE. Time is illmatic, of course, and Nas tells us he “keep[s] static like wool fabric”—linking electricity, beef, and even “the kinkiness of Black people’s hair.”

Suede calls upon Black Lightning, tapping his ability to ionize illbient beats and throw up a force field before fists. He brings in Black Vulcan from the Super Friends in case they need to spot-weld the Fugees' "Ready or Not" submarine (on loan). He looks to da baddest bitch—no, not Trina (though she fellates at a pace “like lightning”)—but to Storm, relying on her to psionically and atmokinetically keep the peace. Hardware heads over with metal alloys looted from Alva Industries. In the same way Milestone Comics diverged from the prevailing archetypes and tokenism of Black superheroes, AJ Suede builds a posse that can apply pressure through a low-pass filter or phaser.

“Most Black Superheroes” survives on the subtle cracking and clicking of the Geiger counter in a tick-tock Doomsday clock loop rendered rhythmic: a molecular metronome. Drums tapped out on a cellar circuit breaker rather than an SP-404. Yes, most Black superheroes use electricity, and AJ Suede turns his sine waves square through a fuzz pedal. He abuses the tube amp until he achieves Electro Harmonix. He regulates the barometric pressure between Seattle and Bristol, rhyming at a rainy-day downtempo BPM, tautens the tripwire, and sends the circuit breaker tripping. His woofers thud the trunk of the jeep with melanated melankolic bass tones. “Most Black Superheroes” is an electric boogaloo of AJ Suede’s own mad scientist invention—a hip-hop park jam of resistance and Vedic possibilities where ohm meets om.

Images:

David Lynch, The Factory Photographs, 2014 (detail) | Captain Sky, The Adventures of Captain Sky, album cover (1978) | Superman: The Man From Krypton, Peter Pan Records (1978) | Lewis Latimer, “Electric lamp” (with Nichols, Joseph V.), patent (1881) | Project Blowed compilation, album cover (1995) | The Watermelon Patch, screenshot, Edison Films (1905) | Lonnie Holley, African Mask (2004) | David Lynch, “Electricity in Hand and Home” | Hardware, appearing in Milestone Comics (issue unknown) | Black Lightning in Justice League of America #174, (Jan. 1980) | Static, Issue 1, Dwayne McDuffie and Robert L. Washington III, DC Comics (May 4, 1993) | Storm, appearing in Marvel Comics (issue unknown) | David Lynch, The Factory Photographs, 2014 (detail)

[palecheesecakecloud]

"I just wanna fall asleep" I said as I rest my head on her lap, feeling the cool gentle breeze tickle my face, the air smelling sweet as ever. The hard cold marble floor felt more comfortable than my soft bed.

"You can take a nap" She said, sitting with her back resting against one of the pillars in that temple.

That temple. Painted with the subtle yet vibrant colours, overlooking the huge landscape of the green-brown soccer ground that extended as far as the eyes could see, where every evening the peacocks would appear cooing on top of the boundary walls. Dancing all around with their feathers extended. That temple was the epitome of calmness.

Neither of us moved as we lay there absorbing every bit of our experience. Recalling every little memory we made in that temple. Remember! the first time we went there? overdressed, with the make up and beautiful new kurtis. With the flowers on our hair, just to click some random pictures and post them on our Instagram. "Temple girls", we captioned it. Remember how the boys came without even taking a bath and how we disgusted them. How prasad slipped his foot almost falling? Remember? Do you?

Remember? every evening we went there and sat on the soft grass staring at the beautiful white clouds. Watching the day fade away into the most beautiful hues of orange and red. Everyday gossip we shared about our class?

Remember? when we were caught in the rain one day and took cover under the huge plants in front of the dean's house?

Remember when we all gathered there on our last day, to plan a protest to let management let us go.

Do you remember? Everything? Because I can't forget it. Ever. Those memories still live in me as fresh as that day. When I close my eyes I can see it all like it's there in front of me.

You are there in front of me.

[mariacallous]

The killing last weekend of a Kosovo police officer by a group of 30 or more heavily armed Serbian nationalist militants marks the most significant security incident in that country, and the western Balkans region, in more than a decade. The US ambassador to Pristina, Jeffrey M Hovenier, described the attack subsequently: “We know it was coordinated and sophisticated … The quantity of weapons suggests this was serious, with a plan to destabilise security in the region.”

Kosovo’s authorities concur and are even more explicit in who they blame. Namely, Serbia’s government, and its strongman president, Aleksandar Vučić.

In the hours after the day-long skirmishes between the militants and police, in which three attackers were reported to have been killed, the office of Kosovo’s prime minister, Albin Kurti, posted photographs of the large cache of seized weapons and munitions. “The perpetrators acted not alone,” he wrote, “but [with] state backing. Serbia must be held fully accountable for sponsoring terrorist violence on [Kosovo’s] territory.”

Serbia, of course, denies these accusations, and responded with allegations directed at Kurti and his government for their purported persecution of Kosovo’s Serbs. Yet the Vučić government also promptly declared a day of national mourning, and regime media have glorified the dead attackers as martyrs for the Serb nationalist cause.

Few analysts, though, have any doubt that Serbia played a significant role in the attack.

It is claimed that the country’s territory was used as a staging area for the militants, whose leadership is known to have close ties to Vučić and his inner circle. Drone footage published by Kosovo police, for instance, appears to show that the vice-president of the primary Serb ethnic party in Kosovo, Srpska Lista, was among the attackers. Srpska Lista is widely perceived as a proxy enterprise of the Belgrade regime, while Milan Radoičić has been under US sanctions for his involvement in significant criminal activities since December 2021. He is now believed to be in hiding in Serbia. Another of the attackers was allegedly the former bodyguard of the country’s intelligence chief (who is also under US sanctions).

The bigger question is how this attack could have happened in the first place.

Kosovo still hosts a Nato peacekeeping force of about 4,500 troops who are closely involved in policing and intelligence-gathering in the country. They were violently attacked in May of this year by Serb nationalist crowds, leaving more than two dozen peacekeepers injured. And Kosovo’s government has warned of the growing likelihood of renewed Serb-orchestrated violence since September 2021, when Serbia deployed fighter planes along the border for the first time since the 1999 Kosovo war.

The answer, alas, is not comforting.

The attack is the (in)direct product of a radical reorientation of American and European policy on the Kosovo-Serbia dispute and the broader western Balkans. Since 2020, Washington and Brussels have explicitly centred the interests of Belgrade over all other neighbouring polities, in an improbable scheme to pacify the country’s nationalist leaders and pull them out of Russia’s orbit of influence. This in a country where 70% of the population backs Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Even after the May attacks on Nato peacekeepers, for instance, the US and EU, incredibly, sanctioned Kosovo.

Kurti has explicitly accused the EU’s chief regional envoy, Miroslav Lajčák, of working in concert with Serbia to pressure Pristina to give in to Belgrade’s demands. And most observers agree with him. Before Lajčák was appointed, seasoned regional experts warned against the move, citing the former Slovakia foreign minister’s historical ties to Russia. Speaking to Voice of America about this week’s attack, the former CIA analyst David Kanin likewise blamed western appeasement of Vučić for emboldening extremist elements in Serbia.

A sharp course correction by the US and EU is now needed. It is evident that both the Biden administration’s policies and those of the European Commission have contributed to the most significant security crisis in the region in years. Their appeasement of Belgrade has endangered Kosovo, but also neighbouring states such as Bosnia and Montenegro, where Serb nationalist militancy, also sponsored by Serbia, is likewise the chief domestic security threat.

The US and EU sanctions against Kosovo must be reversed and replaced by restrictions against the Vučić regime. Serbia’s EU accession efforts should also be frozen until Belgrade demonstrates a serious commitment to de-escalation and functional acceptance of the reality of Kosovo’s existence as an independent state. . And the five EU member states who do not yet recognise Kosovo’s sovereignty should be reproached for their role in exacerbating a major European security issue when the continent can least afford it.

Until then, there can be no meaningful return to dialogue, no matter how much western diplomats will it.