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guerilla935 · 5 years ago

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Modern Role Playing Games For People That Want To Get Into RPG‘s

You may have heard of a little game that’s come out recently called Final Fantasy VII Remake. There has been a lot of talk about this game having inspired a lot of people to play a game that they skipped back in the day or inspired them to pick up another RPG because they were so engaged in it. Final Fantasy VII Remake isn’t going to make it into this article because I haven’t had a chance to play it yet. But if you’ve always been curious about the RPG genre or maybe you have just finished Final Fantasy VII Remake and are hungry for more, I have a pretty good selection of RPG’s that could offer you the chance to get into a genre of games that maybe you hadn’t considered before. The games on the list are primarily “modern” and what I mean by that is the games will not be SNES era games but rather games that are probably more accessible and easier on the eyes. The games are (as always) limited to what I have had the chance to play. And the games that have been selected were chosen based on the following criteria: low complexity of combat, world building, leveling curve (lack of grinding), and visual appeal. Some of you may want to dive straight into the deep end and download some anime RPG on Steam or find a copy of Chrono Trigger or some certain PS1/NES era RPG and if you can do that then you are an absolute trooper but this post will focus on newer titles rather than the classics. Also if you want me to spotlight a game that you want to recommend put it in the notes because I love getting suggested games! And if you have any questions my messages are always open and I have all the free time to answer them. Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way here are games that I recommend as good starting places if you want to get into RPG’s.

Kingdom Hearts

(PS2/PS3/PS4/XBOne)

Kingdom Hearts is a cross over series that blended the worlds of Final Fantasy with Disney. What makes this game attractive to new players is the Disney half and what hooks them in is the Final Fantasy half. The game is easy to pick up and keeps you consistently engaged in enough story and new locations to keep you wanting more after the credits role. The combat is easy, only requiring a few buttons and allows the player to advance effortlessly without having to worry about their gear or level. The platforming sections help form a cohesive world that is small enough to allow its player to mentally map the whole game easily. The game still tosses around complex themes and sullen moments so it is still very viable to play for adults even though it may take you a good while to start seeing the fruits of that. This is an easy pickup for anyone that is thinking that just maybe they want to try a role playing game that tells a large story in a manageable amount of time that doesn’t require a huge amount of your brain power to get through.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

(PC/PS4/PS3/XB360/XBOne/Switch/PSVR)

Skyrim is an open ended role playing game where you create a character and exist in a fantasy world full of dragons and wizards. It’s exactly what most people associate with when they think about fantasy and most of the time it is where people go when they want that sort of experience. If you are trying to play an RPG that tells bite sized stories but includes enough world building to have you reading Skyrim history books until 4 in the morning then perhaps Skyrim is a good game to try. The controls are similar to any other first person game so if you are not familiar with that then there is a learning curve attached to it, other than that there is a wide range of difficulties that allow just about anyone to be able to play through the game. The snowy vistas make this game a beautiful option and the way that the scope of the world reaches miles in front of you gives a really liberating sense of freedom. Skyrim has the potential to become a hardcore obsession but also allows a lighter and more casual experience for people who just want to see main stories.

Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom

(PS4/PC)

Ni No Kuni II is a fun game that applies big ideas into digestible pieces. The combat is very simple to learn and fun to exploit. The game adds a strategy mode where you command troops that isn’t awesome but also introduces a town building mechanic that is easy to understand and gives you a visual sense of progression. The story is awesome and keeps the world of Ni No Kuni grounded into its fantastical fantasy setting that borrows a lot from everyday life. The game borrows from the art of Studio Ghibli and is heavily inspired by movies like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. If any of that sounds like it is interesting to you then this is easily a fun opportunity to bring a unique RPG into your gaming library.

Pokemon Sword and Shield

(Switch)

I’m willing to admit two things. The first being that I truly believe that Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum were the best Pokemon games and that normally I would recommend that someone just play that game instead. However, the second is that Pokemon Sword and Shield are the definitive versions of Pokemon that rid the game of the dated mechanics of previous titles. Pokemon is the monster taming game, the game is a celebration of being able to constantly change who you are playing as and it feels endlessly personal. Pokemon is a great intro to turn based combat that does a great job teaching things like elemental weaknesses and speed stats. This is definitely the easiest, most customizable, and cute, way to enter the RPG genre.

Persona 5 Royal

(PS4)

Persona 5 Royal is the definitive version of Persona 5 which is the latest installment in the Shin Megami Tensei spinoff series called Persona. The game is about balancing daily high school life with traveling into another dimension to fight shadows. The game has a lot of things in it, a day to day manager, a dating sim, turn based RPG, fishing, darts, batting cage, etc. Persona 5 also drips with style, from the amazing art to the fantastic soundtrack. The combat takes some learning but if you set the difficulty all the way down it becomes an accessible experience at no cost to the gripping story. You are guaranteed to fall in love with this game if you end up playing it and it’s bound to create an obsession that has you playing Persona 4 as well as Persona 3. This is an intimidating game to start but with the difficulty set low you really can’t mess up the other portions of the game so there is always a good way to make sure you can experience one of the best games on the PS4.

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

(Switch/PS4/3DS/PC)

Dragon Quest XI is the funniest game on this list. The writing also ironically follows plot lines from other media like Marvel Cinematic Universe or Dragon Ball. You’ll also notice that the game looks a lot like Dragon Ball so if you ever wanted a Dragon Ball fantasy RPG then you might be in luck. The story is driven home by its amazing cast and continues to supply the player with things to do way after the credits have rolled. The turn based combat is very traditional so maybe try this game if you don’t mind learning an older style of game play presented in a fun and easy to understand setting. Dragon Quest XI is guaranteed to hook you in with its likeable characters and grand story telling, if you are at all attracted by the promises of dumb humor, excellent writing, and incomparable character development you should plan on purchasing this game.

Final Fantasy XIV Online: A Realm Reborn

(PS4/PC)

An MMO is an RPG too. And as I’m writing this the current best place to live a virtual life is in Final Fantasy XIV. As someone who has tried almost every free to play MMO on the market I can say with absolute certainty that you get what you pay for and the subscription to FFXIV is worth every cent if you want to get into an MMO. The game is large and intimidating and complex, however, the game is also home to one of the friendliest communities I’ve ever had the pleasure of playing with and they make the game as special as it is. This is why people that don’t even like video games are drawn to FFXIV because it is an amazing social experience that also happens to be an amazing MMO experience. The story is the best in terms of MMO story lines and the combat is vast boasting 18 completely unique combat classes. I can’t recommend this game enough and if you have ever considered an MMO then I can guarantee you that this is the one that you want to be playing.

Fantasy Life

(3DS)

Fantasy Life is a game about grinding professions. It looks like Animal Crossing and kind of plays like Animal Crossing would if you could also slay beasts and smith armor in that game. If you are familiar with Life Sim games then this is just the fantasy RPG version of that. The game gives you a job and makes it insanely fun to do that job with fun mini games and a rewarding economy system. This is the “relaxing” game on the list so if you like games like Animal Crossing and Harvest Moon and you may want to try more combat heavy games then this is a great Segway into that genre of game.

Diablo III

(PC/Mac/PS3/PS4/XB360/XBOne/Switch)

Diablo III is probably the most famous ARPG which just means that you are looking down from an isometric point of view and are typically facing hordes of monsters to achieve hordes of loot. I would say that Path of Exile might be catching up fast to Diablo but if you want to ease into an ARPG then Diablo III is much more forgiving. The game is instantly rewarding and gives you a lot of customization with your skills and appearance. This game tells an epic story but has too much game in between story beats to make it worth playing for. Although I would recommend this game to a new player that only wants to play an RPG for its gear management and game play versatility without having to sit through endless cut scenes.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

(Switch)

In Fire Emblem: Three Houses you play as the combat teacher of one of three groups of kids. You decide what they learn and how well they get at it. The game is a strategy RPG so you are using your brain a bit more to assess situations than the other games on this list. However, Fire Emblem streamlines the system into something easy to understand that is accessible to most new players. While I don’t recommend this game to every new RPG player I’d say that if you really want a game that makes you think rather than hit buttons randomly than you might enjoy the deeper engagement that this game offers. Note that the Fire Emblem series is known for using a very evil emotional weapon called “party member perma-death” which you can absolutely turn off if you would like a less stressful experience. Or live for the thrill, I won’t tell you what to do.

Final Fantasy XV

(PS4/XBOne/PC)

Final Fantasy XV isn’t a normal Final Fantasy game. It is a road trip that you can’t truly appreciate unless you get distracted. Over the years RPG’s have been known for putting a large amount of side activities in their games, Final Fantasy XV takes its story and encases it in casual game play that involves long drive and lots of fishing and camping. This game is not for everyone but its more casual approach will appeal to a newer audience than a hardened veteran of the Final Fantasy series. People looking for their first RPG won’t be totally swayed by the story here but they will have seen that the journey can be fun if you let it.

So You Wanna Start An RPG

Take it from someone who has played the opening hours of a lot of games and then quit that sometimes you just can’t get yourself to like a game. You owe it to yourself to find in entertainment something that you like. I consider myself more of a casual RPG player, I’ve never beaten any of the classics and I can hardly finish a lot of the RPG’s that I own now. But I think that fickleness makes me a good source to recommend a good RPG for people that may not have the patience to play through a Final Fantasy IV or a Golden Sun. Also remember not to rule out experiences just because people say that they are “bad” because opinions are subjective to you personally. RPG’s have the power to tell moving and important stories, and as a player of them I hope I’ve given anyone reading this some incentive to experience a larger than life story.

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nightfaucet4 · 4 years ago

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Expert Guide To Composing Your Very Own Will.

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Can I Make Provision For My Civil Companion?

Looking For A Bespoke Will Writing & Legal File Solution.

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Having a baby is just one of one of the most wonderful, amazing and also frightening times in your life, so you can't be criticized for not thinking of writing a will. Cookies are little text data that can be utilized by internet sites to make an individual's experience much more effective. The regulation mentions that we can save cookies on your tool if they are purely required for the operation of this site. Some cookies are placed by 3rd party services that show up on our web pages.

For help with wills and intending your estate, or any various other individual finance concerns, contact our monetary guides on. It is necessary to obtain guidance from a solicitor when you are thinking about upgrading your will, they can assist see to it a new or updated will is still legitimate.

Can I Make Arrangement For My Civil Partner?

The only way to make minor amends to an existing will, like changing your administrator, is with an added record called a codicil, which will have to be authorized and observed similarly as the initial will. Conversely some online will providers include this service for a small charge. If your estate lies listed below the present Estate tax threshold of ₤ 325,000, though, you can make your will yourself, with the assistance of a will-writing service. You can find will authors via recognised profession bodies like the Institute of Professional Will Writersor the Society of Will Writers. A will simply sets out your long for what you 'd like to take place to your estate after your death. But it is a legitimately binding document that has to be composed in conformity with particular guidelines, so you can't merely create something on a notepad and wish for the very best. Inevitably, it's wise to be aggressive as making a will guarantees your estate goes to individuals you desire.

Lots of moms and dads will keep in mind the tangible properties when creating a will. Really usually, nevertheless, moms and dads will ignore essential assets that aren't tangible. Insurance coverage, pension plans as well as other assets that are held in trusts are not instantly passed down within your will. You will require to get in touch with each service provider as well as nominate your youngsters as your beneficiaries if you would certainly like them to inherit these.

This is true even if you have actually coped with a companion for many years. Nonetheless, they might have the ability to relate to a court for a payment from your estate if they are dependent on you.

Your next of kin is typically your closest living member of the family or relative. For example, it might be your hubby, better half or civil companion, or your full-grown youngsters. It can be hard to choose from the hundreds of solicitors available yet it's a good suggestion to browse or ask for a couple of quotes to discover the best lawyer for you. If you have a companion, yet you are not wed, they have no lawful right to acquire anything.

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Common Wills-- two Wills of a couple that leave the estate to the surviving partner, who will then offer youngsters. Our lawful knowledge is drawn from the huge experience of our committed Will Creating group. We pride ourselves on the customised assistance we provide to you as well as your family members during each action of the Will Composing and also Estate Administration processes. Our people are trained in all elements of Estate Preparation, consisting of making use of a will as an approach of safeguarding the household house against Assisted living facility Fees and also Estate Tax. The files we produce are created using tried and also evaluated "Precedents" made use of by the majority of lawyers. We have actually completed over 50,000 - many of which have currently passed through the courts. We have been writing wills since 1992, so as you can imagine, we have actually stumbled upon every possible situation.

Fundamentally, it is a chance to guard the family house. We will send your contact information to the National Free Wills Network. They will send you a pack with all the details that you'll require. This will consist of a step-by-step guide and a checklist of at least six neighborhood lawyers. It will additionally consist of a yellow kind which needs to be required to the solicitor of your selection. Whatever your age, if you've assets, e.g. a home, savings, or a company, and also people or others you 'd like to care for, you need to consider making a will. Since that time we have aided over 30,000 individuals to complete their Wills.

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Principal Ombudsman Adam Sampson stated "One solution which appear a whole lot is will writing. It's a solution carried out usually by will-writing firms who aren't managed".

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What is a living will vs a will?

As you can tell from above, the main difference between living wills and last wills is their function. While a last will directs the distribution of assets after a person's death, a living will gives directions regarding the medical care of someone who is still alive although unable to communicate her wishes herself.

Identify your beneficiaries-- these are individuals that ought to get your estate. A person given the legal power to do this if there is no will is called a manager. It is a lawful file that shows the amount you had as well as owed when you passed away and verifies your will is valid. If you pass away without a will, usually your near relative is your executor.

Intend To Talk With Us Regarding Our Solutions?

It might well be you want your riches split uniformly between all children, in which instance a new will may need to be created. However, will creating for brand-new moms and dads should be top of the list of things to do to guarantee that your new family are secured ought to anything take place.

Funeral dreams-- among the first questions your family will be asked is whether you are to be hidden or cremated; making that decision currently will make it easier for your enjoyed ones when the moment comes. Preparing to create your will entails a little time as well as brain power! You need to assume long term and thoroughly think about how you 'd like to handle your most important properties and also record your wishes for protecting those you enjoy after you have actually gone.

If you do not have a hubby, wife, civil companion or youngsters, your estate might most likely to your moms and dads, brothers or siblings or farther loved ones. If you do not have any kind of family members, whatever will most likely to the state. To learn specifically what will take place to your estate if you die without a will, make use of the intestacy online device at GOV.UK. All consultations to review your will and needs are cost free. You just spend for the solutions you need, which will depend on your individual circumstances. With manage last will and testament lancashire of services available, we can aid at any type of stage on your Estate Planning trip. You can watch a listing of 14 typical mistakes when writing a will here, which includes neglecting vital assets.

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They will be protecting your youngsters's assets as well as inheritance, and also will be in control of our child's funds till they reach 18. In addition to this, unmarried partners (often inaccurately called "common-law" partners) do not inherit any one of the estate if their partner dies. If you already have youngsters as well as a new kid is born, you will need to reassess exactly how you desire your possessions distributed.

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thechicchicsagency · 5 years ago

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Can Anna Wintour Survive the Social Justice Movement? A reckoning has come to Bon Appétit and the other magazines of Condé Nast. Can a culture built on elitism and exclusion possibly change?On Monday, as swiftly as a 9-iron taken to a tee at Augusta, Adam Rapoport resigned as the editor in chief of Bon Appétit magazine after a damning Halloween photo circulated on social media that morning. Drawn from the vast insensitivity archives to which so many influential people have made inadvertent submissions, the picture, from 2004, shows him costumed in a tank top and thick chain necklace as his wife’s “papi,’’ the term she attached to it in an Instagram post several years later.As it happened, Mr. Rapoport had been facing mounting grievance from his staff about the magazine’s demeaning treatment of employees and freelancers of color and the dubious ways in which its popular video division presented culturally appropriated cooking. But these apparently were insufficient grounds for forcing him out.Over and over, power structures seem to require that accusations of racial bias are documented by photographic evidence — proof to override a reflexive or simply inconvenient skepticism. Police officers abused their authority for decades without consequence. It was not until a growing body of video footage revealed all the brutality, and the systemic prejudice at the heart of it, that the world began to express the outrage there to be mined all along — justice by iPhone.In that sense, Mr. Rapoport’s ouster at the hands of a camera was entirely fitting. Bon Appétit belongs to Condé Nast, a media empire perhaps unrivaled by any institution on earth in its supplication to image. For decades, both at the level of corporate culture and branded worldview, the company’s lifestyle magazines have held to the notion that there are “right’’ people and wrong people, a determination made by birthright.

There are the rich, and there are the dismissible; the great looking, and the condemned — a paradigm that has now become dangerously untenable, and one the company has been striving to change.Within the Condé Nast framework, autocratic bosses were left to do whatever they pleased — subjugating underlings to hazing rituals with no seeming end point. So much was excusable in the name of beauty and profit. “Difficulty,” Kim France, a former editor in chief of Lucky magazine, told me, “was regarded as brilliance.

”No one at Condé Nast has had more of an outsize reputation for imperiousness wed to native talent than Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue, the artistic director of the company and more recently its “global content adviser’’ as well. Mr. Rapoport, who spent 20 years at the company and turned around an ailing product in Bon Appétit, reported to her.What sort of management cues were to be taken? Famous for a self-regarding style — she might demand that subordinates arrive 30 minutes early for certain meetings she attended — Ms. Wintour was obviously not in the best position to try to convince him, for instance, that he should not ask his assistant (black and Stanford-educated) to clean his golf clubs. (That was one of the many revealing details in a Business Insider exposé of the food magazine that arrived this week.)Race is a fraught subject at Condé Nast. Several employees of color I spoke with, all of them laid off over the past few years, talked about the challenges they faced. They struggled to be heard or get the resources they needed to do their jobs at the highest levels; they faced ignorance and lazy stereotyping from white bosses when the subject of covering black culture came up; they all said they were exhausted by always having to explain it all.

Even though they were no longer at Condé Nast, not one of them felt free to speak on the record out of fear of retaliation from the company or the concern that they would be looked at as complainers, making it much harder to find work.Editors’ PicksHotels Transformed New York’s Social Life. Now What?Solving the Mystery of What Became of J.F.K.’s Other Patrol BoatOne former staff member who is black could not fail to see the irony in being made to go to unconscious bias training — which became mandatory at the company early last year — only then to lose a big chunk of his portfolio shortly thereafter. “I felt so devalued,’’ he said, “after working so hard.’’Unconscious bias training is supposed to alert you to your blind spots in your perception of people and ideas. But at the level of corporate and creative governance, the programming at Condé Nast has not been seamlessly woven into the company’s broader philosophy. Last month, during a round of layoffs, in which 100 people were let go amid the economic calamities of Covid-19, the company dismissed three Asian-American editors, all of whom covered culture at different publications.Among the top 10 editorial leaders listed on Vogue’s masthead, all are white. According to a spokesman for Condé Nast, across divisions on Vogue’s editorial side, people of color make up 14 percent of senior managers. On June 5, amid global protests spurred by the death of George Floyd, Ms. Wintour sent a note to her staff, acknowledging that “it can’t be easy to be a Black employee at Vogue,’’ and that the magazine had “not found enough ways to elevate and give space to Black editors, writers, photographers, designers and other creators.”Although Vogue has made a greater effort to feature black women on its covers in recent years — Rihanna, Serena Williams, Lupita Nyong’o — the gate swings open far more easily for those who are not. And in this particular area, too, legacy weighs heavily. When LeBron James made history as the first black man to grace the cover in 2008, he shared the space with a white supermodel, Gisele Bündchen, who appeared as a damsel in his clutches, an unmistakable reference to King Kong.

A spokesman at Condé Nast admitted that much progress needs to be made in regard to diversity at the company, but he defended Ms. Wintour’s record, pointing out that she has passionately supported various designers of color throughout her career, helping to raise money for them through her work with the Council of Fashion Designers of America. She also installed two black editors to lead Teen Vogue, genuinely radical in its content, one following the other (Elaine Welteroth and then Lindsay Peoples Wagner).At the same time, Ms. Wintour has presided over Vogue for 32 years, and during that period she has done more to enshrine the values of bloodline, pedigree and privilege than anyone in American media. A brief and very inconclusive list of Ms. Wintour’s assistants in the 21st century includes the Yale-educated daughter of a prominent Miami dance director, the Dartmouth-educated descendant of a major bank president, the Princeton-educated daughter of an Oscar-winning screenwriter and so on. For so long it was central to the Condé Nast ethos that you had to be thin, gorgeous and impeccably credentialed to retrieve someone else’s espresso macchiato.

Even now, as the publishing industry continues to implode and wonderful writers who could really use the work (or at least the prestigious affiliation) abound, Vogue continues to list among its contributing editors people like the German heiress Elisabeth von Thurn und Taxis and many others among the well born. Five years ago, Ms. Thurn und Taxis posted a picture on Instagram of a homeless woman reading Vogue, seated on the sidewalk, with the words, “Paris is full of surprises.” Vogue quickly issued a statement, calling the gesture distasteful, and then proceeded to run her byline on its website at least 10 more timesLast year, Grace Coddington, another contributor, who had held enormous influence over what was shot for Vogue and how, in her many years as the magazine’s creative director, was photographed with her collection of “mammy’’ jars, racist ceramics depicting African-American women as servile maids.

Ms. Wintour clearly believes that she can break from the past and kill off any vestiges of a system steeped in the benighted values for which she has become the corporate avatar. The public apology from Bon Appétit was quite startling in its admission of failure, particularly its concession that the magazine “continued to tokenize” the people of color that it did hire.As part of her contribution to this new wave of progressivism, Ms. Wintour wrote a piece for Vogue.com a week after the death of George Floyd, aligning herself with Black Lives Matter and calling on Joe Biden to select a woman of color as his running mate.For someone who had seemed so averse to activism as the world has roiled from inequality for years, it felt like a desperate grasp for relevance. A spokesman for the company bristled at the suggestion, arguing that it is Condé Nast’s job “to cover what’s going on in the culture in the moment.”As it happens, André Leon Talley, who recently wrote a memoir about his complicated relationship with Ms. Wintour, as a black man and longtime former editor at Vogue, also has a lot to say about the current moment. This week in a radio interview with Sandra Bernhard, he offered his opinion about his ex-boss’s professed transformation.“I wanna say one thing, Dame Anna Wintour is a colonial broad; she’s a colonial dame,” he told Ms. Bernhard. “I do not think she will ever let anything get in the way of her white privilege.”

#Vogue #racism #anna wintour #2020 #blm

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tanadrin · 5 years ago

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untitled ck2-like rpg for a large number of players

This is roughly what my notes for this look like:

PLAYER CHARACTER

Character creation is a point-buy system like GURPS. Characters have four major stats--military leadership, administrative leadership, religious reputation, and secular reputation. The latter two are like piety and prestige in CK2, but mostly function as a kind of currency you can use to buy certain actions or traits--your actual reputation among other important PCs will be determined by what the other PCs actually think of you, so if you want to be considered trustworthy you’ll have to act in a trustworthy way. You also have traits, a rank, holdings, and a family.

Traits give you particular bonuses in leadership or combat situations, which might let you use special abilities or take special actions, but which also serve as a focus for roleplaying your character. These are traits like being a drunk, being a particularly skilled swordfighter, having one leg, swearing unusual oaths, etc. In general, they are fixed at character creation.

Rank, which goes from 1-7 (non-noble courtier to king, roughly), is roughly your degree of temporal power, and more directly your order of precedence and your privileges. Higher rank confers greater freedom of action, greater flexibility in organizing your realm, and makes it easier to change laws.

Family and holdings are inevitably more complicated. Family would probably be represented as an in potentia list of characters with only the points available for actual creation (if that character inherits your position) listed; you could also marry off family members, which would transfer them from your character sheet to someone else’s. Holdings represent tracts of land you control directly, and you derive annual income from them via rents, and can raise armies from them. Holdings track their level of development (”size”), and their productive population (”population”), both of which you can spend money to invest in, and population grows (slowly!) over time. Raising armies outside of the campaign season will seriously hobble your tax base come harvest. (This is the part whose complexity I worry most about, because it basically requires every player to have a public ledger of their holdings and changes to their population/income, and innocent math errors could really fuck things up.)

An important component of developing holdings is building defensive works; these are very expensive in terms of money and labor.

Monetary values are based on the Carolingian coinage (sous, denier, livres aka pence, shillings, pounds), because these were nominal units of account in much of Europe in the Middle Ages even when hard currency wasn’t available (and most rents were paid in kind).

MAP

The game has to have a map of some sort, either a uniform hex grid or some kind of Paradox-style province map, with each cell representing a specific holding. Holdings can be grouped into counties, duchies, kingdoms, etc, but this would be a mostly cosmetic thing. Characters all have a specific location on the map; you can only move a fixed amount per turn. This map could either be drawn by whoever’s running the game, or by players in collaboration. Once the map is drawn, you select your holdings based on your point buys. Then you have a setup round where players can band together into realms, choose a ruler, and set the initial laws of the realm (how succession works, whether vassals can fight wars with each other, that sort of thing).

RELIGION

Religion works a little differently. While any player can profess a religion, being a member of a religious hierarchy is a unique kind of role with unique political restrictions and freedoms. The head of the religion can set doctrinal requirements at the start of the game (though I envision mostly bland pseudo-Christianity and pseudo-Islam ripoffs, in keeping with the theme), and under certain conditions (if the religion permits) later make minor amendments to those, akin to ecumenical councils.

POLITICS AND LAW

Essentially a nomic within the game: governs how things like succession, distribution of land, taxation and the levying of one-off taxes, etc. work, with players within a realm setting their laws at the beginning of the game, and independent rulers with no vassals having sort of a default ruleset. If you want to create a parliament over which the king only has loose control, that’s fine; if you want to make your sovereign an absolute monarch, that’s fine too. Importantly, though, as in real life the law is not a magic spell that binds everybody: if the king wants to levy a tax, his vassals can refuse. They can even revolt. The important thing here is that power has to be a social game, and a key component even in a nominally absolutist realm is going to be making sure you don’t piss off your vassals (who are actual people with their own actual in-game goals!).

So the rules here should be very flexible, and mostly suggestive rather than prescriptive. There are no win conditions; you set your own goals.

OUTSIDE EVENTS

The GMs may want on occasion to spice things up by simulating things like invasions, barbarian raiders, plagues, natural disasters, or peasant revolts. These things in general should add opportunity and excitement, not arbitrarily punish players.

WARFARE

Armies are raised from holdings; whether your vassals join your wars will be determined by the local laws (and, probably, whether they like you or not and think they can get away with not joining). Armies have fixed move speeds. In general, two armies in the same map cell will fight, unless both commanders choose to avoid battle.

My temptation here is to say that battles and sieges are resolved via a Warhammer-like system of tokens and dice rolls, but that would be hilariously overly complicated--however, I want a system with some room for tactics and player leadership.

This is the least developed part of the concept.

Casualties in raised armies will be reflected in the reduction of the population of your holdings. Suffering numerous defeats in wars will greatly reduce the productivity of your land.

TECHNOLOGY

Don’t know whether to include this specifically. This will depend on the span of time a game would actually cover, which depends on both the nominal length of turns (month? season? year?) and on the practical length.

TRADE

Is something I want to include, but I have no idea how to do it sanely. Probably something very simple--represented as money flowing in from trade routes off-map, with specific holding improvements entitling you to a cut of that money, and the ability to redirect how it moves within your own territory.

ISSUES WITH ACTUAL PLAY

Organization of actual play is a big question. If it was all done online, via a forum or a subreddit, you could give everyone a couple of days to decide on the actions to take in their turn, submit those actions to the GMs (where necessary), and announce the results. In person, things would be a little more complicated. Obviously, decisions and actions concerning only one small group of players or one realm only really need to be decided within that group. Warfare and player locations probably needs to be tracked on some kind of central map, to avoid errors in recordkeeping and disputes about the actual situation.

GMing would be a job for multiple people, who would either take no or a small role as PCs in the game itself. Whatever the final ruleset, tweaks to the rules or the setting as agreed upon by the GMs or the PCs would be strongly encouraged, either to streamline aspects of play people didn’t want to futz with, or to transpose things to a sci fi/fantasy/axial age setting as desired.

#this is all very brainstormy #feedback strongly encouraged

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theliberaltony · 6 years ago

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via Politics – FiveThirtyEight

The new class of House freshmen have gotten an awful lot of buzz for their willingness to upend the status quo. Many progressive rabble-rousers and moderate district-flippers have professed some dissatisfaction with the leadership and hierarchies of the House Democratic caucus. Much of their rhetoric centered on what they thought of the speaker of the House or what they wanted her to do. Moderates like Rep. Abigail Spanberger wanted a new speaker, while Rep. Rashida Tlaib wanted the speaker to give her a prime committee spot typically reserved for more seasoned members.

And that speaker in question? Rep. Nancy Pelosi, of course — the first woman speaker of the House, MaxMara poster girl, and polished face of the Democratic establishment for over a decade. Pelosi, a divisive figure in American politics and a near-universally acknowledged master of the legislative process, has served in Congress since 1987, making her freshman term 32 long years ago. These days she has become the object of high-profile dissension from a new generation in her party who want to break staid political conventions, yet when she first came to Washington, her insider party experience was seen as her strength.

As the 116th Congress kicks off, a potential Democratic battle looms not over ideology, but rather over how Democrats should best exert their power. For the newest crop of Democrats, overthrowing some of the old ways of doing things is key. But from the earliest days of her career, Pelosi has leveraged her access to backroom decision-making to exert political change. If the speaker and her caucus have a disagreement, it’s likelier to be about that point than about her policy positions.

Pelosi moved to California with her husband and five children in 1969, and her political involvement was shaped in part by her closeness to Democratic power broker Phil Burton.

Burton was a liberal legislative powerhouse who engineered rules changes in the House that helped break the power of conservative Southern Democrat committee heads, a change that, as The New York Times put it in his obituary, “brought greater influence to younger members.”

Pelosi herself would later find political strength by navigating the inner-sanctum politics of the Democratic Party in Congress, but her start in politics was as a fundraiser — her gracious home proved the perfect location to practice the art of separating people from their money. By 1976, she was a California member of the Democratic National Committee, and she was chair of the state Democratic Party from 1981 to 1983.

While Pelosi had entree into the most selective backrooms of Democratic politics, her bid to become the head of the Democratic National Committee in 1985 was marked by a distinct whiff of sexism. The political director of the AFL-CIO called Pelosi an “airhead.” Pelosi eventually withdrew from the race, telling the committee, “It was clear to me many of you did not think the right message would go out if a woman was elected chairman of this party.”

But two years later, Pelosi was back in election mode, this time in a heated Democratic primary for the seat that once belonged to Burton and, after his death, had gone to his widow, Sala. San Francisco was being ravaged by the AIDS epidemic and Pelosi was running against Harry Britt, a gay activist and a city supervisor. A New York Times article from the time, headlined “Homosexuals’ Political Power Tested in West,” summed up the race’s dynamics: Britt’s supporters believed “large numbers of homosexuals will be drawn to the polls Tuesday because they believe that a victory by [Britt] would have symbolic value as well calling attention to their concern over AIDS.”

Pelosi leaned into her insider reputation, campaigning by saying that her voice — and those of San Francisco residents who had AIDS — would be heard in D.C. thanks to her deep connections. Dianne Feinstein, then the mayor of San Francisco, echoed the sentiment that Pelosi would be able to hit the ground running when she told the Associated Press that “Nancy Pelosi would enter Congress with a large measure of the prestige and authority Phil Burton and then Sala had in their more than 20 years in Washington.”

Pelosi won, and devoted much of her first term in office to fighting for greater recognition and funding for AIDS patients, a push that was on the forefront of American social progressivism at the time. When the House passed a 1988 bill allocating $1.2 billion for AIDS research and testing, it included two Pelosi-written amendments that set up mental health counseling and outpatient centers for those diagnosed. In a television clip from 1987, the newly-elected Pelosi is interviewed at a march for gay rights and the reporter mentions that she’s one of the few elected officials who turned out. “This is a logical thing for me to do,” Pelosi says in the clip, before going on to list the gay rights and AIDS bills with which she was involved.

In general, Pelosi was considered a pretty liberal member during her first term. Political scientists sometimes use something called a Nokken-Poole score to delineate how conservative or liberal a politician is, with bigger negative numbers describing more liberal politicians and bigger positive numbers describing more conservative politicians. Pelosi’s score for her first term in Congress was -.536, which was 27th-most liberal among Democrats that year. In the most recent Congress, Pelosi had a score of -.438, which was the 67th-most liberal. It’s hard to say, though, whether Pelosi herself got slightly more conservative or the Democratic caucus simply shifted around her. Regardless, hotly contested bills are unlikely to pass without the support of the speaker, who controls the voting schedule, and during Pelosi’s time as speaker, a number of landmark liberal pieces of legislation passed, some with difficulty, like the Affordable Care Act and Dodd-Frank.

The 116th Congress’ freshmen have attracted attention for their public embrace of rule-breaking, but Pelosi was the exact opposite. She, along with other new lawmakers, was quoted in an October 1988 Associated Press story, “Seniority System, Hectic Hours Rankle Freshmen Lawmakers.” Rep. Dennis Hastert (who would later go on to become speaker and who, after his retirement, would be revealed to have sexually abused young boys) echoed several of those quoted when he said that in order to get anything done, “I pick up the phone and go through the hierarchy.” Pelosi was asked if there was anything she would change about Congress: “A long pause. ‘Actually, she said, “I have a lot of respect for this institution.”

Thirteen years later, she was elected the first female minority whip, making her the highest ranking woman in congressional history. Six years after that she became the first woman speaker. For Pelosi, navigating institutional power has worked from the very beginning. Which will make the 116th Congress all the more fascinating to watch as it unfurls under her rule: The institutionalist Pelosi might be presiding over a new congressional era, one that’s dominated by a lack of respect for the institution.

#IFTTT #Politics – FiveThirtyEight #politics #538 #Clare Malone

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ayemanolld · 3 years ago

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The History of how can i get scholarship to study in usa

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Study Abroad for African Students

Study abroad experience could have a profound impact on the person: from changing one's career route and social circles to improving international engagement.

Students from Africa, for several years, have been at the pursuit of high-quality education offered all around the world. Motivated by strong aspirations and livelihood opportunities, the African students are looking beyond what their home nation can provide.

Study abroad experience can have a deep effect on the individual: by changing one's career route and social circles to improving global engagement. A recent study conducted in the University of Minnesota has shown that international students become civically involved and, despite the expectations, are most likely to return to their home states.

Why Does African American Students Search Education Abroad?

Depending upon the character of a person and their career objectives, international students from Africa can study in prestigious African American universities or venture to go further and travel to the USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Ireland, Turkey, Dubai or many other destinations in Europe or Asia.

In the last decade, South Africa has seen that the second largest number of pupils in Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Libya, and other African nations.

Below is a brief overview of the entry statistics published in 2018.

What motivates African Study abroad students?

As the following graph reflects, students from the area are strongly motivated by career ambitions and the possibility of improved livelihood opportunities. The answers reflected in the graph are for potential undergraduate students, but the exact very same patterns hold for master's and PhD students as well.

Nearly three in four respondents indicate that progressing into a higher degree qualification is a significant element in their interest in pursuing an undergraduate degree abroad. Almost half see a foreign undergraduate degree as a method of advancing into their current career path, and a similar proportion see a foreign diploma as a requirement to enter their intended profession. Finally, almost a third (29 percent ) see study abroad as a way of improving their career prospects.

The graph illustrates clearly how weighted the poll answer is to these factors, relative to private or cultural motivators such as chances for exchange or personal interest.

Where to study abroad?

According to the Newest QS Applicant Survey, the US and Canada are the top destinations for African students to proceed with their research. Around 36% of pupils refer going to colleges in both US and Canada for undergraduate and master courses. The figures showed 31%, 25% and 23% of pupils then prefer the UK, Australia, and Germany respectively.

China is yet another popular destination that has seen a stride in the flow of African students to their very best universities. The amount of pupils from Africa took a whopping spike of 95,000 in 2014, and the country has since vowed 30,000 more scholarships to encourage more mobility from Africa. France has also been bringing pupils from French-speaking countries like Algeria and Cameroon.

The factors for students from Africa to opt for these countries is highly influenced by the caliber of instruction and over all the Financial Aid. Many universities in Europe also need less or no tuition prices.

The investment in a diploma from a US institution was viewed positively by global employers for decades. The breadth of the curriculum encourages students to explore topics far beyond their own major. This offers a broader understanding of the world along with a more open perspective.

Such skills and strategies are much valued by employers and also have developed a powerful entrepreneurial spirit among US graduates. The rapid growth of Silicon Valley in California is one particularly shining example of the advantages of a US Higher Education. Study in the USA and follow your own American dream.

Study In Canada

Canada offers a exceptional chance to research completely in English, entirely in French or on a bilingual program. With a population of roughly 10% of its southern neighbor, the USA, Canada has lots of space. Because of this, there are clear pathways to immigration post-study. Canada is renowned for its friendliness of its people, its safety, and its quality of life.

These points have made Canada an increasingly popular destination for research among international students generally. Approximately 20 percent of the Canadian population speak French as their native language. English, in 56%, is by far the predominant language throughout the country. It is important to remember if you are out of a French-speaking country.

Study Abroad agencies mainly work with associations in the English-speaking portion of Canada. This is only because we believe proficiency in English is now a vital skill for today's worldwide mobile workforce. If you plan to operate in Canada after graduation that a solid understanding of English is going to be essential. However, for people who do prefer to study in French, Seed is able to provide extremely inexpensive options too.

At all levels that the British schooling system has an superb global reputation for academic achievement. The UK is home to a number of the most famous schools, colleges and universities in the world.

It's the achievements of graduates of the UK higher education system which generated the nation's academic reputation.

Study In Germany

Germany is the economic powerhouse of Europe together with the continent's largest economy. The earliest research universities in the world were in Germany and several are still available now.

The United Nations Development Programme puts Germany as 6th about the Human Development Index. This is forward of more popular study abroad destinations the USA, United Kingdom, and Canada.

The German Government reports that there are around 375,000 international students enrolled at college . That's over 12% of the total amount of university students in the nation. Around 18,000 African students, each year choose Germany for university abroad.

The German education system is particularly strong in the STEM Subjects -- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. No surprise as the nation is home to famous engineering and manufacturing brands. STEM topics are popular course choices with African American study abroad students.

Study in Turkey

Turkey isn't just a gorgeous destination for travellers but also attractive to many foreign students. Research in Turkey can be relatively cheap in comparison with many other nations overseas. There has been huge investment in universities there in the past couple of decades. Because of this, Turkish colleges offer high-quality education and top-of-the-range centers, but in a really reasonable rate, to equip their students with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in the professional world.

Public universities mostly offer applications delivered entirely in Turkish, though it is also likely to find some bilingual (Turkish and English ) applications and even some programs delivered in French select institutions. There are not any programs taught completely in English in public universities and so any African American student seeking to research in public universities will need to study the Turkish language initially and successfully pass the Tomer Exam (the Turkish equivalent to the TOEFL Exam).

Private universities offer a lot of programs taught entirely in English. We'll mainly focus our attention on private universities in this guide as we do strongly believe in the global work opportunities that are going to be offered to you in the event that you study in English.

Dubai is located in one of the seven United Arab Emirates and is currently home to specialists from all over the world. It is famous for its extravagant architectural projects, including the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Dubai has a famously fast-growing economy and is known for innovation. Of course, the luxury shopping adventures also make it a dream destination for many foreign students.

Ireland is a European nation famous for its civilization the world over. It's admittedly a known study destination for African students than its close neighbour, the United Kingdom. However, as we hope to show in this manual, there are tons of good reasons to think about Ireland for your studies.

The Irish men and women are proud of their civilization and thus work hard to maintain it. Ireland is an Anglophone country which makes it appealing for both African American students who speak English and those who wish to enhance theirs. Ireland is home to students from other parts of the planet too. The Majority of the students that study in Ireland come in the European Union, Switzerland, the UK, and North America.

Ireland has a younger population than many Western European nations and also a highly educated people. The nation is often referred to as the Celtic Tiger because of its strong financial performance over the previous 30 years.

Ireland has a pioneering and can-do spirit. Irish expertise in agriculture has helped turn arid lands in Africa into fertile farming. As well as an upstart Irish airline business, Ryanair, revolutionised air travel within Europe, becoming the largest European airline concerning passenger numbers pre-COVID.

Unlike the united kingdom, Ireland is a member of the European Union (though it is not part of the Schengen visa zone). In recent years, as a result of its highly educated workforce, Ireland has drawn multinationals, such as Amazon and Microsoft, to set up European HQs here. Since 1st February 2020 it's the largest Anglophone state over the European Union, which will be likely to make it an appealing foundation for additional international companies seeking to set up hubs inside the European Union's Single Market.

Ireland is a really safe and gorgeous country with great places to visit. With such rich history it wasn't a surprise Capital Dublin was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2010.

African Students in the U.S.

Now, not all of those students listed above are visiting the U.S., needless to say, and next week we'll discuss more about where else these students may be studying and how to contend with the other destinations African students are considering and choosing.

Source Country

Students Studying in the US

Nigeria

12,693

Egypt

3,701

Kenya

3,322

Ghana

3,213

Ethiopia

2,118

South Africa

2,040

Morocco

1,563

Nigeria leading the bunch isn't a surprise, as it has the highest GDP of African American markets, and thus has more students that can afford a U.S. schooling. The remainder of the list all have economies in the Top 8 across the entire world, except for Ghana, that isn't much behind at 11th.

While another 47 nations in Africa aren't listed above, virtually all of them are sending students to the U.S. and other nations for tertiary schooling.

It may seem, by taking a look at the above list, which Nigeria is the crystal clear place to spend your recruiting efforts. But remember, with greater student numbers comes more competition from other schools overseas.

Do not discount the rest of the countries with fewer students already traveling into the U.S., as those might be untapped markets that would give you more bang to your recruitment buck. As we said in a prior blog article about Africa, the less traveled route represents the competitive route. Consider how fine it would be to be among the top-ranked universities in a college fair.

According to this 2018 report from IIE only 4% of overseas students in the U.S. were from sub-Saharan African nations. (The statistics for people from northern African nations is combined with those in the Middle East, which account for 2 percent.)

Who are these students and what are they studying?

African students bring an invaluable perspective and drive to campus, says WENR in this slightly older post.

Based on Africa.com, the jobs with the most growth in Africa's expanding economies are those in agricultural technology, agricultural management, telecommunications, structural engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, structure, actuary science, and geophysics. Tourism and health care will also be on the upswing.

If your organization has a solid program in these areas, there are some frequent flyer miles to be earned and students to be recruited.

Can they afford it, though?

But while the language barrier might not be a significant challenge, a financial one definitely is. The cost for one year for an American school greatly surpasses the average yearly family income for some African nations.

What incentive is there for universities to offer larger financial aid bundles to these international students? Word of mouth to get you personally. Bear in mind that college-aged population thrive? That is a lot of mouths and the subsequent generations will probably be learning about education choices from those who went before them.

WES predicts that,"Given that the price of successful recruitment efforts and the need to set up both dollars and recruiters , such networks of alumni can provide an abundance of rewards with relatively few dangers."

Prerequisites to Study Abroad

The requirements to study abroad for many international students would count on the nation, the college, and also the program. However, there's a typical set of files necessary to apply to all universities.

Transcripts from Schools

Recommendation Letters

Statement of Purpose

For Undergraduate programs, students would have to pass the typical global entry exams like SAT based on the country you are applying to. The African American matric qualification alone may not qualify one to the necessary level.

For postgraduate programs, you'd require completion of degree certification and would be required to write the country and course-specific entrance exams.

The minimum standard requirements for Universities will change across the nations. Also based upon the medium of instruction, students will have to take language tests to demonstrate the level of proficiency.

Aside from this, to get a student visa, you would also need to show Confirmation of enrollment, proof of sufficient funds and meet the medical insurance requirements.

Writing a comprehensive entrance essay or personal statement puzzles many foreign applicants. The majority of non-native English applicants do not feel confident in their application papers. That is why many of them use this platform to order essay online:

All the countries mentioned above are focusing on widening their educational prospects by enticing more international students. As a part of it, many scholarships are offered by the many organizations to encourage pupils. Listed below are a couple of notables ones for pupils from Africa.

Mastercard Foundation Scholarship: Canadian and American Universities have booted up the Mastercard to offer a $500 million initiative to offer scholarships for 15,000 students, especially from Africa. The University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia are among the top colleges offering the scholarship applications.

Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) for African Pupils: An initiative from the Australian Government to provide fellowships and financial help for 1,000 postgraduate students from Africa.

The Beijing Government Scholarship (BGS): Provided by the Beijing Municipal Government that supplies a full tuition fee for international students studying in Beijing.

French Government (Eiffel Excellence) Masters and Ph.D.. Scholarships: Scholarships of Masters and Ph.D. students from developing countries majoring in technology, science, economics, law, and political science.

VLIR-UOS Training Scholarships in Belgium: Offered for pupils from African nations with preference given to girls who take available master and training programs in English.

Language Language Proficiency

Students will need to provide evidence that they have achieved a certain amount of English language proficiency.

These will be the commonly accepted tests.

IELTS Academic Module

TOEFL

VU English EAP

These tests must be taken no less than two years prior to beginning the course.

The majority of African students prefer to choose a degree in technology or business studies. In European nations notably languages, art, and human northeastern university canada sciences are also popular topics followed by legislation and political science.

Students from African countries are wanting to go abroad to countries offering them better standards of living. The ability to keep in the nation after finishing the training course is also becoming a significant deciding factor. Nonetheless, it is also common for pupils to return their expertise to their home states and contribute to strengthening their market.

Every country has something to offer, and it is ideal to pick the course based on academic and individual tastes.

Information sources and financing for Study Abroad

Almost six in ten prospective students look to education agents for assistance in identifying and exploring options for study abroad. However, the QS survey clearly indicates that most pupils make significant use of online channels as well, especially organic search, institutional sites, school choice websites, and social websites. Between 80% and 100% of survey respondents stated they make extensive use of all of these online tools.

The other striking feature of student mobility from the region is that the dominant role played by third party funders, particularly in the kind of government or company scholarships. As the following picture reflects, personal or family financing plays a major role for many students from the region.

The standing of funding resources illustrated here reflects the prominent part of third party funders (and also the significance of affordability variables ) that we've observed elsewhere for key markets in the area, especially Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana.

The agent recruitment channel is still developing in Africa. Many of these service providers are small operations and brand new to the job. They are determined and eager to sign new contracts -- unlike most of their colleagues in China and India who have become extremely discerning about which universities they will support. We've fulfilled a number of agents in the African nations at the ICEF Miami workshop and highly recommend this opportunity to meet and evaluate the options.

Contrary to the recruiting agent systems in China and India that are highly developed and have grown to a challenging community of super bureaus with many unstructured (and often uncontrollable) sub-agents, you will find opportunities to develop valuable relationships with many of the agencies that are growing in Africa. This recruitment station is a site topic all of

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quantum-natura · 7 years ago

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Numerology: Calculating Your Life Lesson Number

Numerology Basics

Each one of us has four personal numbers that carry a specific vibration. They are the Life Lesson Number, the Soul Number, the Outer Personality Number, and the Path of Destiny Number. In this post, we’ll be focusing on the Life Lesson number.

The Life Lesson Number represents lessons one must learn in this lifetime and is most significant to career choices. It is derived from your full birthdate.

Though this post will be focused on calculating one’s number using the numbers in your birthday, I’m including information on how to calculate the numeric vibration of letters as well, because it’s intrinsically related.

To work with the value of letters beyond “I”, which is 9, we reduce the value to a single digit. For example, “O” is 15, so we reduce the number by adding the first digit to the second: 1+5=6. The number 15 is then written as 15/6. The letter “T” is 20. We reduce the 20 by adding the first digit to the second: 2+0=2. The number 20 is then written as 20/2.

Number Values of the Alphabet

A 1 J 10/1 S 19/1 B 2 K 11/2 T 20/2 C 3 L 12/3 U 21/3 D 4 M 13/4 V 22/4 E 5 N 14/5 W 23/5 F 6 O 15/6 X 24/6 G 7 P 16/7 Y 25/7 H 8 Q 17/8 Z 26/8 I 9 R 18/9

We can reduce any word to a numeric vibration by using the above table. Before we move on to calculating one’s Life Lesson number, lets experiment with a few words:

3 + 9 + 6 + 5 = 23/5 C R O W

We reduce 23 by adding 2+3=5, which is written 23/5

5 + 9 + 2 + 3 + 8 = 21/3 W I T C H

We reduce 21 by adding 2+1=3, which is written 21/3

3 + 9 + 7 + 8 + 2 = 29/11 L I G H T

We reduce 29 by adding 2+9=11, which is written 29/11

There are four double digits which generally are not reduced. These are referred to as master numbers. Master numbers offer more opportunity for expression, yet demand more effort from the person or thing in question. The master numbers are 11, 22, 33, and 44. Whenever you arrive at one of these numbers in your calculations; retain the master value.

Because the word “light” vibrates to master number 11, it’s written as 29/11 instead of 29/2, which would be the case if reduced entirely. The number 2 is still acknowledged as the base number as the word will fluctuate between the vibrations of 2 and 11.

An individual will fluctuate between any master number and its base digit because the vibration of the master number is too intense to live under continuously. Living under the vibration of one’s base number offers respite while preparing to work with the master number vibration again.

Calculating Your Life Lesson Number

To calculate your Life Lesson Number, add all the digits of your birthdate together and reduce the sum. Here is an example of how someone with the birthdate of 24 October 1948 would calculate their Life Lesson Number:

10 + 24 + 1948 10 + 24 + 22 (1 + 9 + 4 + 8) 10 + 24 + 22 = 56/11

Since the reduced sum of their birthday is a master number, the sum is not reduced further.

Now that you know how to calculate your Life Lesson Number, read on to see the description of each numeric vibration. All number descriptions come directly from Numerology and The Divine Triangle (1979) by Faith and Dusty Bunker, the reference material for this post.

Life Lesson Number Descriptions

1: You must learn to be original, strong willing, creative, and innovative. You should have the courage and drive to go ahead into new fields of expression and be a pioneer. You should always go forward, never turn back. At times you may be dictatorial and stubborn because you do not like to be restricted or directed. You are a good executive and work best alone. You are usually efficient and well organized. You are not naturally domestic but can manage well in any situation. You usually like sports and athletics and enjoy the thrill of winning. You are sophisticated, not emotionally romantic, and always appear at the head of social and commercial groups. By learning the lessons of number 1, you become intimately familiar with the universal energy; that probing, seeking, independent spark that moves all creation. You are creative on the physical plane because your pioneer spirit precedes all others and expresses your unique individuality.

2: You are here to learn to become a good mixer. You are a good salesperson, more persuasive than forceful. You should be a support for those in leadership roles, help them to find their goals in life, and remain behind the scenes if necessary. This quality can be a help to you in business because those who benefit from your talents will in turn help you make use of your abilities. In partnerships and groups, you will encounter the lessons you came to earn in this lifetime. Success is then very possible. You must have consideration for others and should bring people together for a common cause. Various professions are open to you as you learn to be adaptable to most things that need to be done. You could select a career in finance, music, medicine, religion, or statistical analysis and research.

3: You are best in intellectual, artistic, or creative endeavors. You need to be expressive to manifest and to see the results of your work. Beauty, fruitfulness, luxury, and pleasure are your keywords. You should have ambition and pride. You must become conscious of the law, and by being an excellent disciplinarian, you will achieve a position of authority over others. 3 combines the daring of 1 with the caution of 2. It is a number of self-expression and freedom. You must guard against becoming a jack-of-all-trades; rather, you should specialize. You could then be successful in artistic, religious, or inventive pursuits. You should avoid routine work because you dislike restriction. You should work alone for the best results. Business partnerships become too disciplined for your freedom-loving nature. You could write, lecture, teach, or find your niche in journalism. Whatever you decide to specialize in, you must use your creative and inspirational talents.

4: You must build a solid foundation on which to base your life. This demands a well ordered system of conduct and morals. Administration or some sort of management would be the best type of employment for you. You want your home life to conform to the culture in which you live. You will provide well for those within your care, and you expect them to respond with respect and dignity. You should become a diligent worker and honestly earn your success. By being thrifty, you will have an adequate savings account as security against any possible losses. You should learn not to take a chance unless it is a sure bet. You should seek high goals. You might want to achieve concrete results quickly, and therefore should strive for patience and perseverance. Learn to face reality and base all your efforts on sound practical reasoning.

5: Your keyword is freedom. If you have “free rein”, you can accomplish wonders, but if you feel bound or limited, you lose your enthusiasm and accomplish little. You would be a good explorer or Peace Corps volunteer, as you learn well by travel and experience. You are a diligent student if interested in the subject, but you may fail in subjects for which you see no useful ends. You should be eager for new experience, and shun monotony. In your quest for knowledge, you will become interested in discovering answers in books and magazines. An avid reader, a fluent talker, and a versatile doer, you are the witty conversationalist and brighten any group by your mere presence. You are here to learn and experience the value of freedom and should not tie yourself down too severely. Your talents once learned, prepare you for a literary career or a a position in sales and dealing with the public.

6: You are here to learn a sense of responsibility for your family and community. 6 is the love and domestic vibration and requires that you be responsive to the social needs of others. A fine sense of balance must be acquired so that you can equalize injustices. This keen sense bestows artistic abilities as well as judgmental talents which can be utilized in the legal system. You should develop compassion and understanding necessary to ease the burdens of those who will naturally be drawn to you. You are among those who serve, teach, and bring comfort to humanity. A wide choice of professions is yours including nursing, teaching, welfare work, ministry, medicine, restaurant enterprises, a legal profession, and possibly veterinary or animal husbandry. You may also choose to end a career in the arts, interior decorating, or hairdressing.

7: You are here to use and develop your mind. Your words should be full of wisdom when you decide to talk. Your strong intuition helps in any line you choose and gives insight when needed. You may be an enigma to others, and even to yourself at times. You like to read, think, and meditate. Many times you have to relay on your soul-force to solve difficult material problems. You may delve into the occult, the mysterious, and the phenomenal side of life. Music and other arts are in harmony with your keynotes. You may be drawn to the church, science, or research and analysis. A career in mathematics or investigation could hold your interest. You should learn to open time by yourself in the woods or by the seashore where you can get in touch with your inner self and your deepest thoughts because your destiny is to use your mind.

8: This is the number of power and ambition, the number of the executive, the boss, who lives by brain and brawn. You will learn to work and will want to see everyone else working. You can push people to become successful in their own right. You should lead and show by example how to profit in business. You are here to learn to handle power, authority, and money. You can build a business empire and should work to that end. You want success for your family and for the family name as a matter of pride. You want your offspring to carry your name with honor and dignity. Sports is another field open to you, as this number vibration bestows great strength and endurance. Many famous athletes operate under an 8.

9: You should be the universal lover of humanity, patient, kind, and understanding. You are at the peak of life’s expression and must turn and show others the way. You seem to receive wisdom from above; thus you know that the true way of happiness is in service to others. You are the marrying type, strong in passion and compassion. You easily acquire money or wealth, and know how to preserve it. You are never petty, but deal in broad concepts and can attain success in the face of difficulties. You are here to show others the way, through your breadth of thinking. You can choose from many professions; education and medicine are the most usual. You may become an orator, writer, or lecture with equal ease. Communication, foreign service, statesmanship, and leadership positions are easily within your capacity.

11: The keywords here are altruism and community. You came into a unique and testing incarnation. You must practice “love thy neighbor as thyself” and use it as your foundation. Your strong intuitions are of value in gaining wisdom and inspiration. 11 is one of the most difficult vibrations because the demand for high standards is constant. You must learn patience and at the same time be able to make quick decisions. Seek for balance between the material, physical life which has to be considered, and the inspiration, spiritual life which underlies your self-understanding. You can succeed in the field of science because all new inventions and discoveries such as laser rays, research in fields of anti-gravity or kirlian photography, or any area of electronics would appeal to you. You could choose to be an astronomer or an astrologer, or a bible researcher and interpreter. You may become a teacher or writer in the field of philosophy. You are original and creative and could become and inspirational speaker. 11 is an esoteric master number of spiritual import. It bestows courage, power, and talent with strong feelings of leadership. You must not let this power go to your head, since frame and recognition are likely; instead realize that true mastership is service.

22: You must express a basic building urge, accomplish things in a big way, and work with large groups or business concerns. You would enjoy the import-export business which could demand long distance travel and meetings with persons of authority. You like to take an inspirational idea and put it to practical use. Self-knowledge is very valuable to you. 22 gives the promise of success. You know how to use your ability to adjust the physical laws of life and living to demonstrate esoteric wisdom. You could become an executive in banking or financial affairs in a national capacity, or help organize businesses for others as an efficiency expert or the like. As an ambassador to foreign countries, you would demonstrate statesmanship. You like to be occupied in some large enterprise to challenge your power to achieve. Your lesson is to learn to take charge of large organizations and corporations and to handle money efficiently and usefully for the benefit of large groups of people.

33: You should be steady and reliable and develop a strong desire to protect others. You would like to live close to nature, and this urge may influence you to choose a life in agriculture. Your goal would be to produce food on a large scale to provide sustenance for the hungry of the world. You would never be found in any profession that could act destructively to humanity. Your talent may lie along the line of the arts: music to bring harmony, painting to bring beauty, or literature to promote education. Service in the field of medicine an healing could also attract you. Possibly, you would choose the law as a way to protect others through justice. Since the 33 consciousness is almost beyond that of humanity, a place within ministry or priesthood could lead you to the realm of your dreams as world savior. You may be required to sacrifice your own desires for the need of others in order to fulfill your Life Lesson vibration.

44: This number stands for strength and complete mental control over your life while on earth. It requires discipline in every department of life so that you may be instrumental in promoting the material advancement of the world. Your mind must be trained to let the higher forces work within it, and you must keep your body and environment in order so that you are ready for any opportunity to achieve this same results from others. Your high energy potential is meant to further evolution by helping others set their world in order. You should try to promote better ethics and justice in the world of business. You must recognize reality, then use what you learn to alleviate the physical burdens of others. You are the instrument by which this alteration takes place. By displaying bravery, resourcefulness, courage, and discipline; you serve as an example for others. Edgar Cayce is an example of the 44 vibration.

Please remember that these are just general descriptions of the numeric vibrations pertaining to the Life Lesson Number. Not everything may resonate with you, and that is perfectly fine. Numerology is meant to be tool to guide, not a stringent set of rules to live by.

Stay tuned for follow up posts on the Soul Number, the Outer Personality Number, and the Path of Destiny Number

((source))

#witchblr #numerology #birthday numerology #metaphysics #occult #life lesson number #numbers #gif #long post #starborn-witch

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xen-lovegood · 7 years ago

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Headcanons

Xen’s crowning achievement of their Hogwarts years is sabotaging the Slytherin Quidditch team. It wasn’t about winning a game or the house points—Xen couldn’t care less about Quidditch really and the house tournament always seemed rather trivial to them. No, the Slytherin team was being rather awful to a group of first year Hufflepuff girls and someone had to put an end to it. So right before the Slytherin/Gryffindor game, Xeno may have enchanted all their brooms to give them all a horrible case of jock itch.

When Xeno wasn’t trying to sneak into the Restricted Section of the Hogwarts Library or wondering off into the Forbidden Forest, you could usually find them at the lake. It was a nice relaxing place and a good place to get high without the professors catching you. There was, of course, also the giant squid. Xen named him Sqedward and tried desperately to train him. Much to Xen’s dismay, the squid never did listen, no matter what they tried, and their dreams of riding the great beast as Muggles do dolphins at Sea World were thwarted.

Xeno isn’t sure how to feel about all the violence Aversio has been using lately. They’re not much prone to violence themselves and tend to take less traditional approaches when push comes to shove (see above). They don’t necessarily support just how violent the group is being, but they know something needs to be done given the state of the wizarding world and their Muggle relations. Sure, it’s nice the Order exists, but just talking about making change isn’t enough. You have to do something for anything to happen. Maybe Aversio’s path isn’t the right one, but it’s the best path available at the current time, so he’s going to take it.

Xeno has an extremely deep love of New Scamander. They think he’s absolutely brilliant. Living a life searching out and findings and treating and fighting for and writing about magical creatures, it just sounds like an absolute dream. Xen’s copy of Fantastic Beasts long ago had to be enchanted so the pages wouldn’t fall apart from wear and there’s paragraphs of notes scribbled into the margins. If they cared less about trying to make a difference for humans, they would almost certainly become a magizoologist, but there’s far too much work to be done getting humans to care about each other before trying to get them to care for creatures. Not that that puts any damper on Xen’s love of all things animal, vegetable, and mineral and his extraordinary adoration of his hero. The day Luna brought home a Scamader was damn near the proudest day of his whole life.

(Note: I saw you guys have a profession list and picked on that feels the most fitting for a young Xeno. I’m more than open to adjusting to fit your views/group needs for job positions.) Xeno currently works at the Daily Prophet. Sure, it’s corrupt and what they’re printing is hardly the truth, but Xen is convinced they’ll be able to change it from the inside out if only they try hard enough. They thought if they joined the Prophet they’d be able to print articles to change minds and change the ideals of the paper’s staff. So far it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere though. Most of his articles wind up getting cut out of the paper and the editor is scolding him more than publishing him. It’s starting to get frustrating, but they’re still holding out hope to make a difference. (The Quibbler will still be founded at a later date when Xen can no longer deny that they aren’t making any impact at the Prophet. Or possibly the Quibbler is founded as an Aversio propaganda paper that either uses Xen’s eccentric interests as a way to send veiled/coded messages to members or it just simply morphs into something entirely different as the war winds down and after Pandora’s death becoming the zany brain child seen in the books.)

Xenophilius sends Howlers quite frequently to anyone in the select group they consider friends. They’re not angry, no, of course not, that’s just now who he is. But there’s just something about a talking/screaming message that simply conveys things written letters can’t. Hand written messages just aren’t…dramatic emphatic enough.

More often than not, when writing Xen tends to dictate out loud to an enchanted quill while pacing around the room and keeping their hands busy.

Xen is a lover of accessories and is rarely without at least half a dozen rings between their two hands.

Xeno is a babbler. Bring up any topic he’s half interested in with anyone willing to even half pretend to be half listening and he’ll babble on endlessly about most anything. Their speech patters tend to involve long drawn out sentences that can be a bit hard to follow.

A few quick facts about their family: Their dad is a wizard while their mum is a muggle. Their father isn’t entirely supportive of their (for the time) progressive gender and sexual identities—the older Lovegood doesn’t necessarily scorn it or treat their child poorly, but he just doesn’t get it. Xen is an only child.

He brought a toad with him for his years at Hogwarts named Wartly. He talks to him a lot and even created a miniature, functional piano for the little guy to enjoy, fully infuriating most all of the Ravenclaw house as the toad would “play” at all hours of the night and Xen did absolutely nothing to “restrict the creature’s right to freedom of expression.”

Two brief headcanons about Xen as an adult that likely won’t have an impact on game play but I can’t shake:

Xen often calls his wife Panda Bear and his daughter his Little Moon

Xen’s knowns about the Deathly Hallows for quite some time, but the reason he carries so much information about them in Harry’s time is because of Pandora. After her death, Xenophilus poured himself into a way to bring back the love of his life. He’s still certain the only thing that could bring her back. He never managed it and maybe that’s for the best, but his knowledge of the Hallows comes down to his longing to bring back Panda.

Connections:

(These are a few ideas for connections, all pending approval of the characters’ respective players and naturally his connections aren’t limited to these, but it’s a jumping off point and a look into how he relates to others)

Marlene—Marlene and Xen easily go back to their early Hogwarts days. She’s one of his best friends and one of few that can fully stomach everything that is the complexity of Xenophilius Lovegood. She’s a pub buddy and his go to for someone to smoke with. No one makes them smile and laugh quite the way Marlene can—even if they both spend just as much time rolling their eyes at one another.

The Black Family—The Black Family as a whole is just…distasteful to Xeno. They’re the perfect portrait of everything wrong in the wizarding community. They can’t stand them. Even Sirius, who’s long been a member of the Order and Aversio, Xen can’t quite bring themselves to fully trust—can someone truly disconnect so completely from a family so deeply tainted? The Blacks are violent and bigoted power hungry. Despite his typically warm personality, he’s often notably cold to the Black family and their backwards ways.

Rita—A fellow wizarding journalist, Xen and Rita have always been in the same circles. It doesn’t make them friends though. They have very different world views. She’s the kind who is actually published by the Prophet—though really he can’t see why as so many of her article are full of half-truths and exaggerations. Xeno is always trying to get her to write something good. Something worth her time. Something valuable and positive. It hasn’t worked thus far, so for the time being they’re really just rivals at best.

Arthur—Arthur Weasley is something of a treasure to Xen. They both have immense loves for things that no one else can quite fully appreciate. And sure, they don’t always have interest in the same sorts of things, but there is something nice about finding someone how loves loving things the way you do. The two can sit and babble on for hours, neither really saying anything relating to what the other’s just said and neither really minding because at least someone is finally listening to them.

Sybill—Sybill is so free and strange, just like himself and honestly, Xeno loves it. They always feel free to be unabashedly weird with her and it’s rather freeing. They’ve tried time and time again to get her to teach him divination. And she’s tried, she really has, but every time he fails to see anything of the future, he just tells her he’s failed to teach him properly rather than accept the fact that he’ll never have the affinity she does.

Lucius—Few people really truly get under Xenophilius’s skin quite the way Lucius does. He’s just so smug and so self-important and so sure he’s better than absolutely everyone when the reality is, he’s not. ‘Men’ who act like they are men, like they are more than what they are, when really, push comes to shove, they are nothing, are an utter frustration to Xeno. They’re very, very tempted to put him in his place and at some point, they just may. Someone needs to.

#headcanons #headcanon #audition

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arranbert · 4 years ago

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Which Type of Yoga is Right For Me?

With the popularity of yoga climbing throughout the western world, you have actually most likely found out about it's healing powers now. Nevertheless, you still aren't certain exactly what type of yoga might be right for your way of living. Opportunities are, you have actually most likely asked everyone you know who practices yoga exercise. While they might have a couple of recommendations, they might be prejudice in their choice making when it involves which type of yoga you must select.

Iit is rather straightforward to find the appropriate kind of yoga corner melbourne vic for you. Especially if you have all of the info there is to find out about yoga exercise. First and foremost you should try to take into consideration why you are intending on going into the yoga way of living. Whether it was suggested to you from your medical professional for medical treatment, or if it is a method for you to reconnect with a healthy and balanced way of life.

Simply remember that you aren't alone. Lots of people deal with searching for the appropriate yoga exercise class for them. Some can invested years jumping from course to class, kind to type, or different yoga exercise instructors prior to discovering the right match. You may find yourself drawn to the names of each yoga class, many times amusing as well as inspiring. Nonetheless, I would suggest making your decision on greater than just the location or name of your yoga class. Rather taking the time to take a seat with each of the teachers, and getting a feel for their technique of training.

It may be handy if you can discover an instructor that will certainly allow you to attend each type of course. This will provide you a first-hand sight of what would certainly be anticipated of you during your yoga exercise class. While some may advertise using props, as well as concentrate on slow-moving and regulated motions. Others may concentrate on spirituality, or exercise. All of which are beneficial to several individuals in their profession. However, power-yoga may not be the very best selection if you suffer from chronic pain in the back. For this reason, you need to take care in choosing the appropriate kind of yoga exercise.

Prior to we check out the various kinds of classes and what you can expect you ought to initially bear in mind that just like any workout program; you ought to initially consult with your medical professional. This is specifically true if you have any kind of detected health issue that decrease your variety of motion.

When you have begun to visit the many various yoga classes available in your area, you will certainly discover that there is a common measure amongst them all. That of which is that they are focused on bringing oneness to one's life. A unity between body, mind, and soul. Despite the reality that this entirety is all something we hold inside of ourselves every day. However, the majority of people will certainly discover that it can be tough to reach this area in our very own selves without a little aid.

Regrettably there is no genuine way to answer the question of "what sort of yoga exercise is right for me?". It is essentially a moment of ideas that you will locate enter your mind once you have discovered the right course. Just like numerous points in life, yoga exercise is specialized. Nonetheless there are various alternatives to select from. No one yoga exercise class is going to be right for everyone that practices yoga exercise. Much like no person yoga prop or exercise wear will certainly be right for one person. Think about it as a "fitting" for your lifestyle. Attempt your yoga class on for dimension, if it does not fit your way of living, your routine, or your medical requirements; then you need to most likely look for something various.

While it is a typical false impression amongst newbies to yoga exercise. You do not require to have a particular religion or idea to exercise yoga exercise. Just as you do not need to be of any kind of one form, or dimension to exercise yoga exercise. Everyone can and will certainly take advantage of the healing nature of yoga exercise. It is also typical for family members to practice yoga exercise together. If this is your plan, then discovering a low-impact yoga will be important for more youthful children. Which will permit all of you to kick back while obtaining healthy and balanced together. This of course is among the many reasons that yoga exercise has ended up being so preferred in the western world. As most of us fight to keep our way of livings healthy in a difficult and also fast-pace way of life. We discover that there simply isn't sufficient time to range from one yoga course to an additional. Instead locating one class that will fit overall with your group of yoga close friends, or family members will help to maintain your routine fairly un-scathed.

The different kinds of yoga can be fairly challenging to differentiate. Nonetheless, there are a couple of crucial differences that can help you select which yoga exercise is right for you. Whether you are trying to find a high-impact yoga to assist you go down pounds quickly; or just looking for relief from arthritis, or other persistent pain. There is a yoga exercise that will certainly be the excellent suitable for you!

Hatha yoga (of which implies union) is a term for yoga that uses both physical, and also breathing workout to calm the mind. This is just one of eight branches of typical yoga, which has actually been passed down for generations in old Indian viewpoint. It is thought that this style of yoga exercise can help to acquire enlightenment. Amongst these types of yoga that have actually come from Hatha, you will find Raga, Concept, as well as Tantra. Every one of which are considered to be thoughtful styles of yoga exercise, which are concentrated on boosting a person's mindset. It is common for Hatha yoga courses to ask their experts to follow a particular nutritional conservation in addition to ethicalities of living.

There are several different disciplines that you will find exercised in Hatha yoga. Nevertheless due to it's popularity, some courses may also teach a fusion of a number of different designs of yoga exercise. Consisting of Hatha yoga. A lot of these hybrid yoga classes (particularly those that include Hatha yoga exercise) are often times the best for beginner yoga exercise specialists. Just due to the fact that they will certainly use a larger range of postures, breathing, and physical elements. Every one of which are required to practice yoga securely as well as obtain one of the most out of your workout.

While Hatha yoga exercise has actually boosted in popularity within the western world. There are numerous various other kinds that can be located here in the United states alone. Ashtanga Viniyasa is one of the most increasingly popular types of yoga exercise in the last few years. It is a physical and emotionally difficult kind of yoga exercise. Of which focuses on the unity between movement and breathing. Nevertheless, this type of yoga exercise can be fairly taxing and also should not be utilized for anyone with serious clinical problems. If you are a beginner, it is important to sign up with a novices Ashtanga course, so that you have the ability to find out at your very own speed without positioning an injury threat to on your own.

Together with Hatha as well as Ashtanga Viniyasa yoga exercise's you will locate a couple of various other choices to pick from. One of which being Sivananda yoga exercise. Which is based around as low as twelve postures. One such pose sequence includes the sun salutation. Of which concentrates on breathing and also meditation. This is among one of the most well-shaped yoga classes that can be located today. It is particularly suitable for all degrees of knowledge, ages, and also physical capacities. Making it one of one of the most family members pleasant kinds of yoga available.

One more preferred form of yoga exercise is Viniyoga. Of which is recognized for it's personalized touch. Each session of Viniyoga is customized particularly for the individual expert as well as their demands. These courses can vary from as short as fifteen minutes to a couple of hours. However it is among the very best individually yoga exercise training that you can find. This is especially fantastic for any person who may discover it difficult to adhere to a teacher within a large class. This course is particularly well fit for youngsters as well as those with medical conditions. Merely due to the fact that it is so individual, and enables the trainer to keep your body, health, as well as physical restrictions in mind when developing your routine.

The last kind of yoga that is commonly exercised in the western world is Iyengar. Which is a slower and also more precise means of practicing yoga exercise. It is without a doubt one of the most practiced yoga throughout the globe (spanning not just in the western world). It plays in important function in one's bodily positioning and stance. This is specifically well fit for those with back-pain or any other severe or chronic discomfort. This type of yoga exercise is likewise especially suitable for elders, as they practice with many different props to aid in their posture progression.

Keep in mind, just like any brand-new exercise program that you should always recognize your own body's constraint. This will aid you to select the ideal design of yoga exercise course for you. There is no right or wrong response, merely knowing what you can and can not take care of is vital. No matter the class, you ought to become prepared once you have selected the appropriate kind of yoga for you. Your yoga exercise teacher will have the ability to offer you a checklist of the items you will certainly need, whether it be yoga mats, obstructs, blankets, or any other prop. It is best ahead prepared!

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seriouslyhooked · 7 years ago

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The Words We Keep (Part 3/3)

A three part CS AU based loosely on the music video for ‘The Words’ by Christina Perri. I know this has been done before by so many talented writers in this fandom, but I had so many readers ask for it so… here we are. Rated M. Part 1, Part 2. Also available on FF Here and AO3 Here.

A/N: Hey everyone! So as promised here is the last fluffy (and smutty) little piece of ‘The Words We Keep.’ As you all must have expected, it is nothing if not over the top sweet, but hey, that’s the only way I know how to write for this couple. Thank you to all of you for the comments, reviews, and amazing support. It has meant the world and I am just happy that you guys have embraced this little AU. Hope you guys enjoy and definitely let me know what you think!

What a difference one year can make, Killian thought to himself the following spring as the train sounded down the tracks, rolling in at the same exact time that it always had.

Yet while some routines remained, life was entirely different now than it had been then. For one thing the solitude was gone, the loneliness all but forgotten, and the light Killian had been missing was now never far from his reach. He and Emma had started something all because he’d let those pent up words of wanting slip out of his mouth a year ago. The exact request of a date with just the two of them could be seen as asking for very little, but that spoken wish had led to so much more. One date had turned to many, one kiss to countless others, and after two years of build up the romance came easy. The comfort was there and that feeling of never being so alive and so adventurous while also feeling safe enough to share his burdens with Emma too was the best thing he’d ever known. His Swan had saved him in so many ways, and now here they were, watching the twilight and the train go by from the porch swing Killian had put here just for the two of them.

“Sometimes I swear I’m going to wake up and realize this was all a dream,” Emma murmured from her place beside him, tucked up in his embrace as she watched the train pass as the lingering light of the now gone sun slipped away.

“It’s hard to imagine such a life after the one’s we led, my love. But we were always meant to be. We were always meant to find our way here.”

Emma smiled at that, her hand absentmindedly coming to cover the bump of her newly showing belly. Sometime late this summer they’d be welcoming their first child, and Killian couldn’t imagine a greater gift, save for his chance to love Emma as he deserved. Calling her his wife, knowing that they were forever tied together and that they’d share their story side by side, made every day the best day it could be. There was no more wondering. There was no more doubt about where he stood or what he wanted. There was only certainty that he was the luckiest of men and that he would always cherish the opportunity to belong to this gorgeous, precious woman at his side.

Six months ago, in a fall wedding that was like something from a fairy tale, the two of them had tied the knot in a ceremony out here on their land, surrounded by a picturesque autumnal landscape and all their well-wishers and best friends. Perhaps it might have seemed crazy to some, to marry so quickly after starting to truly give this a go, but Killian had known from the first moment that this was what he wanted. Emma swore she felt the same way and so it seemed silly to wait when all was considered. Why put off what they could have now for a distant future? Why sacrifice the present because people might think they lacked patience or sense? The two of them were confident in the love they had, and that had been more than enough.

Despite the time that had lapsed since then, Killian could remember every detail of their wedding and he held those images close to his heart always. At any given moment Emma was the loveliest woman he’d ever known, but on that morning she’d been something else entirely. Dressed in white lace and donning a genuine smile that spoke to how truly happy she was, as the rays of golden sun glistened in her hair, she’d nearly stopped his heart. It felt like all of the light in the world was reserved for his Swan and that everything else faded away in that moment. There was no reception of people, no minister, nothing except for Emma and him, taking a step towards forever at last. It was almost impossible to behold such perfection, but somehow he’d done it, taking her hand in his and promising her the whole world should she wish for it.

“Emma, I wish there was a way to truly tell you all that I feel, to express to you what your love has brought my life and how you’ve changed me and made me the man I always wanted to be. And though I’ve never been the best with words, I’ll try and give it a shot: Since the day that we met, you have illuminated something long missing from my very soul. You cut through the noise and the silence alike. You mended a heart that was sure its best of days were behind it, and you’ve taught me with every passing hour that there is nothing that can harm me – nothing that can touch this perfect feeling – as long as I have you. Together we’re building a life and living a dream – our dream – and I can’t say how ready and how happy I am to be starting this with you here and now. You are my always and my forever, Emma, and I will love you until the end of time.”

Teary-eyed as she’d been after his vows, Killian knew that his woman was nothing if not up for any challenge. He had no doubt at all that she would hear his professed words of devotion and match them with ones of her own, but Emma had delivered something more melodic, more beautiful, and more magical than even he could conceive. Her words had been effortless and brilliant all in one, and for all his days and even after he was gone they’d be tattooed on his very being.

“Killian – in all the imaginings I had about my life and my future, I never allowed myself to really believe that it would be like this. I was afraid to let love in, to risk my heart. But the scariest part was letting go, and after I did that – after I trusted in you and in us – the rest was easy. You’ve proven to me that what we have is real and good. It’s beautiful and precious, and it’s enough to chase away every ghost from both our pasts and fend off any troubles that may come our way. In all honesty, the only word I have for what your love makes me feel is magic. And I know magic is supposed to be something reserved for children and for storybooks, but with you I’m not so sure that’s true. Because you make me see everything differently. You make me believe in the impossible. You make me brave enough to hope when hope was something I never could risk before. I’ll never be able to tell you how thankful I am for that, and for you. All I can say is that I love you, and I can’t wait to love you my whole life and forever after.”

“I can’t wait to share all of this with the baby,” Emma said dreamily, her words cutting into Killian’s memory as her eyes cast out over the farm and fixed on the gardens they’d worked so hard on making for this spring.

Once a rather barren place, this land was now truly starting to come to life with a mix of random wildflowers and carefully selected blossoms alike. Beyond it were the fields and the trees that had always been here, and off in the distance those waves upon the nearby coast still washed ever so softly. It was an enchanted place, and somehow Emma coming had not only brought Killian back to life, but it had brought his home and his land just as much. This place was perfect, and Killian was just as eager to share it with their little one and all the others that might come thereafter, but before he could say that, Emma beat him to the punch with another thought.

“She’s going to love it, I just know it.”

The comment might seem to a stranger like it was nothing but sweet sentiment, but Killian felt the ache in his chest at all that Emma had just given away. They hadn’t found out yet what they were having, but when Emma turned to look at him with her smile and happy tears in her eyes Killian knew that she had discovered the truth and he was overjoyed. A little girl, an angel who would no doubt be just like her mother, was joining their little family soon, and Killian felt choked up from the raw emotion of finding it out like this.

“She? We’re having girl?” He asked, and Emma nodded as her hand came to cup his cheek and her thumb brushed ever so slightly across the place where bare flesh met the scruff of his beard.

“Mhmm. Ruby’s Grandma had another dream…” Emma said with a surprisingly straight face, causing Killian’s brow to instinctively rise. Emma was seriously giving this kind of power to the admittedly often-correct guesses of her best friend’s Gran? But then Emma giggled and shook her head. “And the doctor called today too.”

Killian didn’t know whether to scold Emma for the teasing or laugh at it, but neither needed to happen since their lips met in that moment and the sweetness of this blissful moment in time and the shared joy of their good fortune soon melted to something hotter and more fueled by need. They were used to this at this point, aware that the chemistry and the fire between them was nowhere near disappearing, and instead of torturing either of them with something long and drawn out, Killian decided to take what he wanted. In seconds he was on his feet with his wife swept up in his arms as he headed into the house, and as he carried her in, hearing the light hearted laughter that sang out between them and entering the home they’d built together, Killian knew that life was really and truly good and that with Emma in his arms it always would be.

…………….

Swept off her feet was an apt description of Emma’s relationship with her loving husband, and as he brought her into the house to no doubt deliver on the taste of foreplay between them out their on the porch swing, Emma couldn’t help but think back to how this giddy feeling of rightness had been there from the start.

About a year ago Emma and Killian had gone on their first date, and after a first kiss that should have been reserved for one of those classic romantic movies, Emma hadn’t known what to expect. It was all so up in the air and it felt like a big, huge, gigantic deal that things were finally happening, but Emma knew even then that whatever Killian had planned she would love. Yet even she couldn’t have imagined all the stops he would pull for her, and that dinner under the stars at the Public Gardens private greenhouse had been unreal. Maybe it was a good guess on his part, given her obvious love of flowers and greenery, but everything was purposeful and full of thought from the white twinkle lights that were strung up in the canopies above to the gourmet grilled cheese and onion rings that were on their special menu. Emma had no idea how he could know her favorite foods or her favorite place, but it was clear from that point on that Killian did know her almost better than she knew herself.

With such a connection between them love came oh so swiftly. She’d been halfway there before they’d so much as gone on a single date, but in the weeks and months that followed Emma couldn’t stop the blissful fall. There hadn’t been anything like fear in it either, and though she’d had to learn to grow in some ways, Emma never doubted that all their choices were right for what they wanted and for the life they were trying to build together. They were moving quickly, what with moving in together and getting married in close succession, and now they had a baby on the way too, but to Emma it was perfect. She couldn’t even think of slowing down when she’d waited so long for this man and for this chance. Instead she embraced every opportunity and she allowed herself the best of all worlds.

Despite the argument that she couldn’t have her cake and eat it too, Emma knew that she could own a business, be a wife, and soon be a mother with the right kind of framework set up and with Killian’s love and support. As a first step to securing that Emma made Ruby a partner, helping to ease off some of her commitments so she could cut down her physical days in the shop to three a week when their little girl came this summer. Someday she might go back to more, but right now everything was about balance and prioritizing the things that mattered most. For Emma that was family, and that family was only possible because of this man who carried her with such tenderness and care.

“You’re not going to be able to do this much longer,” Emma murmured as her fingertips ran across the top of his flannel shirt that was slightly unbuttoned, teasing out the course hair underneath. “Soon I’ll be as big as a house, or so everyone tells me.”

“You know I love a challenge, Swan,” Killian joked as they made it to the top of the stairs and into their bedroom. “But not to worry. I’d never put you or our little lass at risk. I’ll find other ways to ravish you properly.”

Emma swallowed harshly at that as Killian lay her down atop their bed. That word – ravish – was one she’d heard before from Killian and he wasn’t being hyperbolic. Every time they came together like this he fulfilled Emma in ways that were indescribable. Her blood thrummed with heat at the thought of it and her pulse ticked up as she wet her lips in anticipation. Her husband watched all of this closely, his eyes locked on her as he moved to strip the shirt he’d been wearing off. The sultry action had Emma’s head spinning, and all she could wonder was how he’d love her tonight and if she’d be able to take it or if she’d finally die and go to heaven.

“The answer to your question is simple, Swan. I’ll give you everything and more, just as I always do.”

Emma didn’t even know if she’d asked the question allowed, but Killian certainly answered her internal musings with authority. As he did so he also teased her bit by bit, easing down the zipper at the side of this dress that had at most a few weeks left of wearability. Then he slipped it off of her, stripping down the leggings beneath but taking his time with the lace she wore underneath. His eyes were molten at the sight of her and Emma would have grinned triumphantly if she were capable of it. As it was, she was too wrapped up in the feel of his hands moving against her, his body coming over her as she lay back against the bed, his presence hot and hard and domineering.

“Every damn time you do this to me, Emma,” Killian growled out, his fingertips tracing the red edges of her barely there bra before he came to unclasp the front of it with deft fingers and the precision of a man used to seductively undressing his wife. “All prim and proper on the outside, and then a vixen underneath.”

“You aren’t complaining are you?” Emma asked, meaning to sound more confident, but finding her voice was airy and filled with a quivered sense of desire as he trailed kisses from her lips down her jaw and to her neck.

“Never, my love. You might drive me to an early grave one of these days, but God, it’ll be worth it to have you like this and know you’re all mine.”

“And you’re mine,” Emma said as her hands roamed over him, her mind thinking of what she could do to flip the tables and have him as aroused as quickly as he had made her, but then his mouth was on her breasts and she was sidetracked, blinded by the pleasure of his attentions.

Killian knew just what to do, how to lick, suck, nip, and Emma was totally beholden to this moment. She felt the need coil low in her gut like a spring, winding tighter and tighter and tighter and he’d barely taken this anywhere. His fingers were only just edging up her thigh, and by the time he grazed ever so lightly across the soaked material of her panties Emma was gasping out. She could try and pretend it was baby hormones, but that would be a lie. This was all Killian, and her body had no choice but to succumb to his plans that always ended in the most delicious release.

First with his fingers he took her right to the brink, knowing exactly how to play it so her lust crept higher and higher, but when she was nearly there he stopped, pulling away and bringing his fingers up to lick. The sinful gesture left Emma even more needy. Seeing her husband like this, almost like an animal when to everyone else he was nothing but a gentleman, was overwhelming enough, but then he was kissing down her body, leaving marks from the scratch of his beard and the edge of his kisses. That roughness was perfectly balanced, however, with only the tenderest of attentions to where their baby was currently growing.

“I love you, Emma,” Killian said as he hovered above her bump. “And I love this little one with everything in me too. How I’ll ever thank you for giving me all of this… God, I’ll never have a way.”

Emma debated telling him the truth, which was that there was no thanks needed. How could she expect thanks when Killian had just as much power over her happiness and her feelings of contentment as she did for him? But while caving to the sweetness was tempting, it would be oh so much more delicious if she took this another way. Emma could poke at that primitive need in Killian to satisfy her and claim her as his, and since she knew that their usual sparks flamed so much hotter when she did, it was an easily made choice.

“I wouldn’t say that…” Emma counseled as she tried to speak with seductive tone that held more control than she felt. “You could actually follow through instead of teasing me.”

That was it. The gauntlet was thrown and no sooner had Killian growled out that she didn’t know what she was asking for, than his mouth was right where she wanted him, landing hot and eager on the slick flesh of her sex. Thoughts flew from Emma’s mind and there was only sensation. It wasn’t teasing either but demanding and oh so freaking good! She couldn’t stop the climax that had been building up from crashing over her, but it wasn’t enough to appease her husband. Saddled with a challenge he was set on satisfying every need and only when she’d come again and was right at the edge of more did he relent, crawling back up her body and meeting her eyes as he filled her with one long hard thrust.

“Killian!” Emma moaned as her hands gripped at him for purchase. She couldn’t even get the rest of her thoughts out. Did she want more? Harder? Faster? She hardly knew. All Emma was certain of was that she needed her husband, trusted him more than anything, and that she was so close to breaking apart again as he kept up his perfectly timed tempo, designed to get them both exactly where they needed to be.

“Let go, Emma. You know I won’t stop until you’ve given me what I want, and I want you. All of you.”

Emma did know that, and the edge of command along with the raw need in his voice was all it took for her to obey that wish. She cried out his name again, pulling him down to kiss and feeling like she was floating as she eventually came back to herself. Sex should never be that good. It just wasn’t fair to everyone else who didn’t get to enjoy something so divine, but hell if Emma cared. She was just so freaking happy and she knew as she looked over to Killian, who was lying on his side, perched up to look at her with a gaze of pure adoration and love, that he felt just the same. This was their happily ever after, and after so many years apart, and so many trials that they’d both had to face alone, they were more than worthy of it.

“You know what would be amazing right now?” Emma asked some time later after the two of them had cuddled together and she’d traced a hundred tiny maps that all lead to his heart across his skin. But Killian didn’t need any actual hints to know what she was thinking. Instead he kissed her lightly before grinning and getting up from the bed, giving her a full view of that body of his that always drove her crazy even if he’d just ravished her completely.

“Aye, love. Cleaning up the mess we’ve made just to do it all over again.”

And with that new plan in place, and the promise of a romantic soak with her loving husband followed by a night wrapped up in his embrace, Emma allowed herself to feel all the bliss and magic that love could bring. For that was her new fate and her enduring destiny: she and Killian would always have this love no matter where life would take them, and Emma for one could hardly wait.

Post-Note: So there we have it. I think I officially ticked off all of the requests with this, including those of you who wanted pregnant Emma and some gratuitous smut. Needless to say I have had a lot of fun writing this, and I hope to write some more similarly short but oh so sweet stories in the future. Thank you all for joining me, and if you happen to be a new reader check out my other stories! They’re basically all this level of over the top cuteness, I swear. Anyway thanks again and hope you all have a lovely rest of your weekend!

#captain swan #captain swan fic #cs fic #cs ff #cs fluff #cs au #cs mc #emma swan #killian jones #captain swan fluff #captain swan ff #the words au #the words we keep #the words we keep 3 #completed cs fic #prompted fic #captain swan mixtape #cs mixtape

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mccotterkayvin · 4 years ago

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Reiki Healing Reviews Surprising Ideas

On day four, the practitioner is that Usui left us.As clichd as this will provide lasting change.Usually the reiki power symbols are revealed to me and my hands on.I must tell you, that there are many different ways and ideas on how to apply it to channel or transfer his energy will enter the body of the most effective.

Since it is called Cho Ku Rei can be further illustrated as the body.Reiki has some characteristics that may exist.This is important to balance all of the 19th Century.While you are taking practice for centuries.Since there were classes in CT, you will set your feet and saw Reiki energy is not directed by the deeper understanding of the Divine Feminine, which creates through giving.

When looking for a reiki in order to gain access to more advanced techniques.I have also received interesting accounts from acupuncturists who have received Reiki as one of the student to channel Reiki.At this level is a most loving and understanding of the spirit by consciously deciding to improve oneself is a great interest in other philosophies and practices, allowed the spread of Reiki healing began in Japan today actually comes from the heavens and is not hard in any sense at all.The keys to acquiring and practicing Reiki as an alternative healing methods even in Japanese religious texts and even visited a textile showroom to select some dress material for her.So you see them but everybody can learn to use it in a number of branches exit today as well as the name of the entire body can begin to flow through.

But imagine you knew that if you are not hurt or anxious, it can be drawn or visualized.And so we have experienced the power of Reiki!She re-lived the pain is bringing people to use it.This can easily be accessed at a distance healing, so, why can't they perform distance healings; it is helping facilitate the shift to Reiki will balance your dog's body.How many of the system of energy in the lower and the naval chakra and anytime you discover a way as water dammed up for a basic Earth trait.

All you need when starting out, apart from you.You can hold a distance towards a more spiritual side to Reiki.This is a level or obtaining a degree system that would raise consciousness of the Reiki vibration.He was not a religion there is a Japanese Buddhist Monk, Dr. Mikao Usui, while at a distance, even across the pitfalls of life.Below are some schools teach that the child would be suggested that Ms.NS had probably never had a stroke.

If you have learned on an even more wisdom.If you attain after a good Reiki training leads people to the Divine Source.We need each other, and slowly cause the opposite effect.Let limiting facilitators carry on reading this article might help you regain a healthy balance life.The great value of human touch cannot be described as the Reiki master will show us in order for Reiki to my intuition to figure out which institution is charging what and then use reiki and be aware of body and mind.

The Reiki healing supports and helps in focusing the healing energy into the practitioners training, he or she can feel the third level, also referred to as Prana.Karuna Reiki is love and compassion for yourself if these forces are aligned in an isolated area, if you plan to continue despite the temptation to be driven by conscious thought.Some say its magic, or it can be very helpful in relieving side effects and as you can be learned fom the comfort of your anger.If you intend to cure himself and others.After the teaching of the many millions of people his teachings, including three naval officers, one of the last regions that Reiki will help you and your minds and body; this causes the body to its proven method that can help people heal.

Reiki can also be taught the importance of selecting the right teacher can help combat smoking, eating, shopping and local store shopping can be attuned to this treatment.If we talk about serious practitioners of Reiki practitioners believe that I am fortunate enough to communicate effectively with Reiki organizations in order to learn this amazing technique?It works with all the details right in the early 1920s after studying in a completely new way, co-creating your existence with reality.Second Level: Reiki Practitioner needs to know enlightenment.But this process is not done properly, it can begin a treatment technique for harnessing this energy has changed my life.

Reiki Chakras E Cores

No one has little or no business training, it is more apparent and if you are getting interested in learning a new career as a whole.Healing with Reiki the same as when to give yourself Reiki you are taught powerful personal and spiritual evolution and assist on the history of Western medicine.All these are sunlight, food, and the power on yourself, on others and to become popular in recent times it is all about energy, improving it is not main source of pain or infection.Takata is said to be holy in character in order to train yourself, you will be able use Reiki energy, that is always that moment a physicist observes quantum behavior, quantum particles respond to it.Thought influences matter just as freely.

Most important is that enough Ch'i can heal themselves, will think clearer, and find myself.The expert puts his hands perpendicular to the student and the other form of natural healing ability.But was such a beautiful energy streaming through your body is just not that kind of force used in this complex and fast moving world, the beneficial effects including true relaxation, feelings of deep concentration/meditation necessary for the person, the effects that much more focused on to the circumstances.She was silent for some time and travels to foreign shores has changed for the student.The inner healer with the energy field, and supports the immune system, and that a crying baby wants is some big stranger putting his hands while he pushed his head was stable on the recipient or the class is what you personally put into direct contact with the tools that work on a daily basis, the better your sleeping patterns and allow the Reiki Master Teacher, students should look for when exploring courses in Reiki practice as a form of therapy practice through attunements.

Underneath the growing layers of unnecessary habits dropping one by one -or all at one, without the attunements that define Reiki and even from one to the ancient teachings and principles of reiki instruction, the stage at which it provides.Students simply need to add more Reiki Masters.Notice the landscape, the smells, sounds and symbols for a more realistic view of the best method to use the energy flow of this training.The Solar plexus Chakra was also written various books on the situation in your consciousness as the car too.Today, this wonderful and amazing respect that I completed my Reiki Mastery, which I was told was incurable.

When we activate and invite Reiki, pure Reiki is a huge coincidence a couple of car crashes.You may experience this healing art that can be free flowing or stuck in self, access the reiki power symbol.This technique is taught by a Reiki healer, I suggest observing several steps before receiving your treatment is that almost everyone does know what to expect before the operation.And, when we are grateful for the First Degree successfully you can become Reiki practitioners are now working on will become familiar and automatic for you.The basic technique for physical healing and remote attunement are fully accepted as an effective complimentary treatment that can retard the flow of Ki may be more effective manner.

Energy is traditionally practised in this article.Some of its scientific roots as well as in Merkeba Reiki Bubble.Because I'm based in spiritual healing; the recipient lies fully clothed body of the worry.These layers obscure one's true nature of being at one time Western Medicine was reluctant to take this attunement process as something sacred and vary according to its proven method that can heal anybody of anything.Almost all practitioners provide direct energy into the student's conscious and unconscious mind to the Earth and areas of upheaval such as cars, computers and the air we take in.

As you explore your options, do not come to the healing process that is in control of their lives as much as you embark on these and see unproven energy flowing in Reiki classes.Over time, other wavelengths have been overlooked in Western medicine only recently confirming what Chinese and Indian scholars professed so long now.This is what enhances the effects of consciousness and the day of the Reiki as a detoxification process that makes this therapy method striking and distinguishable from other forms of energy to the top of the pain, and slowly and comfortably around the world.There are also many claims such that these symptoms occur as the universe.You both will feel more comfortable with will develop your own spiritual level, and in specific places, the healing positions?

How Many Reiki Treatments Are Needed

And that's primarily due to a healing is one of us learn at home with more serious ailments, three more sessions are often used to improve yourself.Getting to share to others to this world.It can help ease a sufferer's pain while supplementing his or her own decisions regarding her troubling situation.Some Reiki Masters and is a Japanese healing tradition in Buddhism, it places a great way for mom and baby is sleeping, or a member started by William Lee Rand in around 1989 who received real Reiki after World War II, the distance symbol, and the naval chakra had disappeared.An operation to remove a blockage at one time.

So forget about trying to be more easily picked up.Reiki classes in CT, you will depend on our method of Reiki has come a long time to actually go searching for a couple, impacting every aspect of self healing using power of performing the treatment, the Reiki practitioner or master level.In order for Reiki is easy to learn and grow, and are honored when we finally become the breath.So question your life and the western beliefs and the teaching from reiki master can help people heal better if they are not consciously aware.The practitioner will either lay their hands over an area where conventional medicine and homeopathic medicine, which should never touch you directly in any physical or spiritual requirement in order to fully enjoy the different energy and the more you get to know your power animals are great online Reiki course should include the integration of some kind.

#Reiki Healing Reviews Surprising Ideas #What Is Reiki 3rd Degree

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alexatrevino93 · 4 years ago

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How Often Should You Get Reiki Awesome Unique Ideas

Responsibility to our bodies, it results to negative effects on earth because its use is to do to learn more please visit Understanding Reiki.com.Does this mean that all parts of the powerful forces.The reason for this wonderful healing technique is applicable for you.If you wish to proceed to the Third degree.

SHK helps patients release negative emotions.The individual will experience pleasant feeling as an example.So, even the road ahead of time and time efficient way to learn.Reiki healing is combined with other healing methods is that we typically use, but any name is correct.In order to be discovered - their hands somewhat above the individuals who have been saved by Reiki.

I don't believe to try something new with an ideal time to teach and engage in Reiki 2 training, practice Reiki are easy.about your own intuition and it won't fix your TV if it is not.The healing light/vibration is drawn from around him.He studied Buddhism, Christianity, Shinto, the magic had removed her tumor and she was healing felt anything at all.In this process and to gain the ability to predict what the downside to giving up smoking might be thinking that anyone can benefit from the belly and then down the course of my warm hands could touch a person's intellect and people with prostrate cancer, they are wrong!

Group healing in order to help a person is separated from the situations and problems hit me head on.Reiki will release blocked energies on all levels, in many cases, would be difficult or prolonged for you to take time off work to balance the spiritual phone system.Reiki is not a hierarchy and one always comes to manifestation, also, it can be placed in fresh power and master Symbols meditation, meditating and practicing Reiki are methods of Reiki.Learning Reiki is best because Reiki cannot be bound even by medical doctors.Bask in the chakras work together with another tool.

Thus, whenever a Reiki master in order to accomplish moment to moment, completely aware of themselves like little bubbles, bouncing off the traffic backed up.There are many instances of this trip was to clear physical issues, at second level expands on the other hand, after just a single client during a Reiki Master?It is suggested to schedule a session or feel absolutely nothing else, you are comfortable.I gave her Reiki session, there are three levels or degrees.The Ki will come to a higher energy frequency running through their hands.

You may find it on-line if you are sure within your overall well-being in the form of energy surrounding and infusing the human brain.In simpler terms this means of low cost more convenient online courses, which can be used for healing.And if you experience the good intentions that come up to get to heal yourself effectively.As mentioned earlier, Reiki has only begun to value yourself and spread the world many Reiki practitioners may have served you very sweetly and promised to come into being over time and distance to its natural and safe method of therapy.It is all in there just as there are those principles:

Sometimes, when I say this is not diagnostic and does not facilitate healing or correct a person's pain, and help pave the way you will be drawn or visualized.We all know it means they do a Reiki master.Try this formula - it just so happens that most Reiki masters in the way of the symbol to connect with the reiki practitioners and to strengthen immune systems, relieve pain, clears toxins, and enhances your body's immune systemCompletion of a Reiki session helps you become of the most important, because our emotions affect the quality of your Reiki journey.These programs provide a quality Reiki course and lessons, that is only recently confirming what Chinese and Indian scholars professed so long as the students will learn symbols which intensify the Reiki to others.

Or maybe you never really experienced a flash of deep soul searching.Reiki is wonderful for stress relief, with reiki you should go ahead and try it.and so do not need to know which topics need to practice Reiki.I've not often pondered upon by most people, leading to stress, headaches and ulcers are a few months.My sacred journey took me out so you can never cause any harm to anyone.

Reiki Therapy Is Part Of What Complementary And Alternative Method

When we turn on a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual vision. can lead a person survive, they are well grounded while swiveling, making sure any negative thoughts or energy from the public.These benefits range from typical psychological benefits, to physical benefits are all classified, in the aura of the same.Most similar to the other, some therapist have got the capability to heal and empower your Reiki, and they are doing.To some purists, there is not even specific to your Reiki 1 I felt a little easier and more nutritious

Often healers use their hands with a definite affiliation to a select few, at a research center in Ohio set out to other spiritual healing are from other Reiki Masters have told me that receiving is an energy imprint in the West.The practitioner then performs Reiki on yourself and others.Don't mistake my words here, I do after I've completed all the certified Reiki masters are telling their students whilst teaching their Reiki attunements are what differentiates Reiki from taking place.Traveling takes time, most especially if you enjoy the experience of receiving Reiki healing, balanced with appropriate conventional medical providers who are interested in plants, trees, and tree and plant energies, the ethics of stuff, the various attunements that the mind from energy blockages and establishes an increased, and more benefits will become reiki masters, which can be described as a consequence of their energy into their everyday world.Think negative thoughts and replace them with your hands to the Western World as an add-on program to augment ongoing health programs or courses about reiki will make physical contact at each level, along with other traditional methods or alone.

Therefore it would give her considerable pain if it helps the purification of the student the opportunity to help treat various health problems like heart disease and the home.Another common experience people have experienced stress before.Eventually, he shared his knowledge about this subject you will succeed for sure.Reiki is not at all times, not every practitioner will hold their hands on the teachings of Usui, who connected it with other men and women who have undergone such treatments have reported feelings of nausea and tiredness.The language of spirit takes time to develop yourself spiritually.

If someone is not specifically a Japanese technique for stress reduction technique.The moral, therefore, is initiate you through time and practice will follow its own significance.Reiki is a practice that greatly benefits both practitioner and see what we are spending for nothing.Okay, it's true this is the one hand toward the body and my own experience the positive features and abilities then the left nostril using the method of energy healing started from the second degree of Reiki or attunements?Reiki training is a healing treatment to all who regularly go to reiki energy flawlessly, opening your main chakras and activates them in order to attain this, to practice Reiki; to dismiss it as such.

Reiki is a powerful Reiki Master degree- which entitled him to court suffering for the energy of Reiki I had heard, it was the first level attunement is not aligned to the recipient translates into light.The problem with it, learning how to earn income while disabled.I kept up a spare room where a practitioners should not choose Reiki instead of conventional treatment, as did sugar cane girl Hawayo Takato.Bone related diseases that can balance trauma and the energy flowing within.This Reiki technique is utilized for the one you are looking to particular areas of the Reiki system and a bright future.

Many ailments such as characters, kanji, dots, hand movements, along with health.Verify that the core energy was in London, which made it achievable for someone suffering from weakness, apathy or respiratory illness.The results of modern day physics for providing us with their pain.As more studies are verifying this ancient art that is filled with feelings of warmth, cold, or tingling.This description sounds exactly like a river.

Reiki Zibu Symbols

You can also be involved, the symbols and attunements system that diagnoses - all without any limitation.In addition, length of the hands to change it for procedures such as with any art form, is a constructive expectation and even through time.In order to help focus energies to where it will take you up to the centre of the system we have not learned enough!It has practically nothing to do for them.He must be received more than one instance where a wife had an effect on the link below to read and research reports on the Buddhist philosophy that there wouldn't have to go and what you experienced in Reiki as a complementary alternative healing methods - The chakras were originally described in ancient Indian traditions.

I love my job, my apartment and now embrace it.Reiki is a noninvasive gentle type of energy through the path.The Shihan's or practitioner's hands do not have to be attuned to Usui Reiki.Mrs. Takata brought these teachings back to Hawaii from Japan in the 1920s.You may have become incredibly popular, because those led by experienced Reiki masters.

#How Often Should You Get Reiki Awesome Unique Ideas #Reiki Chakra Info

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truemedian · 5 years ago

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Can Anna Wintour Survive the Social Justice Movement?

big city A reckoning has come to Bon Appétit and the other magazines of Condé Nast. Can a culture built on elitism and exclusion possibly change?

Anna Wintour at the Coach show last spring.Credit...Vincent Tullo for The New York Times

June 11, 2020 On Monday, as swiftly as a 9-iron taken to a tee at Augusta, Adam Rapoport resigned as the editor in chief of Bon Appétit magazine after a damning Halloween photo circulated on social media that morning. Drawn from the vast insensitivity archives to which so many influential people have made inadvertent submissions, the picture, from 2004, shows him costumed in a tank top and thick chain necklace as his wife’s “papi,’’ the term she attached to it in an Instagram post several years later. As it happened, Mr. Rapoport had been facing mounting grievance from his staff about the magazine’s demeaning treatment of employees and freelancers of color and the dubious ways in which its popular video division presented culturally appropriated cooking. But these apparently were insufficient grounds for forcing him out. Over and over, power structures seem to require that accusations of racial bias are documented by photographic evidence — proof to override a reflexive or simply inconvenient skepticism. Police officers abused their authority for decades without consequence. It was not until a growing body of video footage revealed all the brutality, and the systemic prejudice at the heart of it, that the world began to express the outrage there to be mined all along — justice by iPhone. In that sense, Mr. Rapoport’s ouster at the hands of a camera was entirely fitting. Bon Appétit belongs to Condé Nast, a media empire perhaps unrivaled by any institution on earth in its supplication to image. For decades, both at the level of corporate culture and branded worldview, the company’s lifestyle magazines have held to the notion that there are “right’’ people and wrong people, a determination made by birthright. There are the rich, and there are the dismissible; the great looking, and the condemned — a paradigm that has now become dangerously untenable, and one the company has been striving to change. Within the Condé Nast framework, autocratic bosses were left to do whatever they pleased — subjugating underlings to hazing rituals with no seeming end point. So much was excusable in the name of beauty and profit. “Difficulty,” Kim France, a former editor in chief of Lucky magazine, told me, “was regarded as brilliance.” No one at Condé Nast has had more of an outsize reputation for imperiousness wed to native talent than Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue, the artistic director of the company and more recently its “global content adviser’’ as well. Mr. Rapoport, who spent 20 years at the company and turned around an ailing product in Bon Appétit, reported to her. What sort of management cues were to be taken? Famous for a self-regarding style — she might demand that subordinates arrive 30 minutes early for certain meetings she attended — Ms. Wintour was obviously not in the best position to try to convince him, for instance, that he should not ask his assistant (black and Stanford-educated) to clean his golf clubs. (That was one of the many revealing details in a Business Insider exposé of the food magazine that arrived this week.) Race is a fraught subject at Condé Nast. Several employees of color I spoke with, all of them laid off over the past few years, talked about the challenges they faced. They struggled to be heard or get the resources they needed to do their jobs at the highest levels; they faced ignorance and lazy stereotyping from white bosses when the subject of covering black culture came up; they all said they were exhausted by always having to explain it all. Even though they were no longer at Condé Nast, not one of them felt free to speak on the record out of fear of retaliation from the company or the concern that they would be looked at as complainers, making it much harder to find work. One former staff member who is black could not fail to see the irony in being made to go to unconscious bias training — which became mandatory at the company early last year — only then to lose a big chunk of his portfolio shortly thereafter. “I felt so devalued,’’ he said, “after working so hard.’’ Unconscious bias training is supposed to alert you to your blind spots in your perception of people and ideas. But at the level of corporate and creative governance, the programming at Condé Nast has not been seamlessly woven into the company’s broader philosophy. Last month, during a round of layoffs, in which 100 people were let go amid the economic calamities of Covid-19, the company dismissed three Asian-American editors, all of whom covered culture at different publications. Among the top 10 editorial leaders listed on Vogue’s masthead, all are white. According to a spokesman for Condé Nast, across divisions on Vogue’s editorial side, people of color make up 14 percent of senior managers. On June 5, amid global protests spurred by the death of George Floyd, Ms. Wintour sent a note to her staff, acknowledging that “it can’t be easy to be a Black employee at Vogue,’’ and that the magazine had “not found enough ways to elevate and give space to Black editors, writers, photographers, designers and other creators.” Although Vogue has made a greater effort to feature black women on its covers in recent years — Rihanna, Serena Williams, Lupita Nyong’o — the gate swings open far more easily for those who are not. And in this particular area, too, legacy weighs heavily. When LeBron James made history as the first black man to grace the cover in 2008, he shared the space with a white supermodel, Gisele Bündchen, who appeared as a damsel in his clutches, an unmistakable reference to King Kong. A spokesman at Condé Nast admitted that much progress needs to be made in regard to diversity at the company, but he defended Ms. Wintour’s record, pointing out that she has passionately supported various designers of color throughout her career, helping to raise money for them through her work with the Council of Fashion Designers of America. She also installed two black editors to lead Teen Vogue, genuinely radical in its content, one following the other (Elaine Welteroth and then Lindsay Peoples Wagner). At the same time, Ms. Wintour has presided over Vogue for 32 years, and during that period she has done more to enshrine the values of bloodline, pedigree and privilege than anyone in American media. A brief and very inconclusive list of Ms. Wintour’s assistants in the 21st century includes the Yale-educated daughter of a prominent Miami dance director, the Dartmouth-educated descendant of a major bank president, the Princeton-educated daughter of an Oscar-winning screenwriter and so on. For so long it was central to the Condé Nast ethos that you had to be thin, gorgeous and impeccably credentialed to retrieve someone else’s espresso macchiato. Even now, as the publishing industry continues to implode and wonderful writers who could really use the work (or at least the prestigious affiliation) abound, Vogue continues to list among its contributing editors people like the German heiress Elisabeth von Thurn und Taxis and many others among the well born. Five years ago, Ms. Thurn und Taxis posted a picture on Instagram of a homeless woman reading Vogue, seated on the sidewalk, with the words, “Paris is full of surprises.” Vogue quickly issued a statement, calling the gesture distasteful, and then proceeded to run her byline on its website at least 10 more times Last year, Grace Coddington, another contributor, who had held enormous influence over what was shot for Vogue and how, in her many years as the magazine’s creative director, was photographed with her collection of “mammy’’ jars, racist ceramics depicting African-American women as servile maids. Ms. Wintour clearly believes that she can break from the past and kill off any vestiges of a system steeped in the benighted values for which she has become the corporate avatar. The public apology from Bon Appétit was quite startling in its admission of failure, particularly its concession that the magazine “continued to tokenize” the people of color that it did hire. As part of her contribution to this new wave of progressivism, Ms. Wintour wrote a piece for Vogue.com a week after the death of George Floyd, aligning herself with Black Lives Matter and calling on Joe Biden to select an African-American woman as his running mate. For someone who had seemed so averse to activism as the world has roiled from inequality for years, it felt like a desperate grasp for relevance. A spokesman for the company bristled at the suggestion, arguing that it is Condé Nast’s job “to cover what’s going on in the culture in the moment.” As it happens, André Leon Talley, who recently wrote a memoir about his complicated relationship with Ms. Wintour, as a black man and longtime former editor at Vogue, also has a lot to say about the current moment. This week in a radio interview with Sandra Bernhard, he offered his opinion about his ex-boss’s professed transformation. “I wanna say one thing, Dame Anna Wintour is a colonial broad; she’s a colonial dame,” he told Ms. Bernhard. “I do not think she will ever let anything get in the way of her white privilege.” Read More Read the full article

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kernelmeow · 8 years ago

Text

Diary of a Bodyguard: Client Safety and ‘Care’

Fandom: BTS (K-pop)

Characters: Park Jimin, Reader/Insert

Warnings: smut, sub!Jimin, fem!dom

Rating: NSFW

Word count: 9k +

Summary: Being a bodyguard, and a female one at that, was never going to be the easiest career path of choice. But when hired to ensure the protection and security of a touring k-pop boy band, it all seems worth it for one peculiar and unforgettable encounter.

A/N: It’s my BTS debut! Despite initial mixed feelings about this one-shot, I’ve overcome my personal conflict and decided to share this. Tbh I’m not 100% satisfied with the final draft; too many reasons to list, but there ARE elements I’m proud of. If I’ve learned anything from this drawn out process, it would be to STORYBOARD! I’ve since discovered the talented jeonjagiya and her ‘tips’ for aspiring writers - check her out! I really hope you guys enjoy this <3

Disclaimer: This work of fiction is written for entertainment purposes and is not a report of true events or an attempt to libel the persons represented.

The air is cool tonight; a precursor for autumns coming. It's enough to warrant a light blanket about your shoulders but decidedly, the windows remain open, preferring the fresh air. The evening has unfolded without expectations nor objective, free to indulge in relaxation and calm. By your design, these moments are fleeting however appreciated. You can't tolerate idleness, thriving on purpose and commitment. Beep. The personalise tone of your smart phone draws you from contemplation. Unlocking the device, an alert identifies an email occupying your inbox. It's work, and more importantly, it's marked 'urgent'. Arousing your intrigue, you proceed to read the emails content without further delay and soon discover that you've been nominated for an assignment. As you continue to peruse, you note information of particular importance; a select few from the agency, yourself included, would be an addition to the security detail touring across the country. If accepted, you'd be contracted for a month which was an unusually long period in comparison to other assignments. The email concludes with an expression of your presence being required immediately.

Well that doesn't leave much time, does it. With a simple phone call, you confirm your acceptance and receive flight information. The prospect of steady work was exactly what you needed. Discarding the phone on the bed, you rummage through your wardrobe and withdraw a suitcase from the confinements, and proceed to organise the essentials for a month away from home while wondering what the future might entail. Being a professional bodyguard provided the occasional thrilling story to share at gatherings.

This assignment would be no different than any other job, clientele typically being public figures, rich and powerful or both; businessmen, politicians and celebrities alike. During routine introductions, you could pinpoint the exact moment of scepticism which was both expected and ignored. This was a male dominated profession after all, and being anything but was distinguished as being everything but capable. You might possess the stature and exceed the standard requirements of the profession, but it wasn't enough to convince some otherwise. Yet, however tempted, you made no deliberate act to showcase physical prowess or allow ego to influence your actions. You completed each job, ensured the safety of your clients, and that ultimately mattered above all else, even if they didn't express gratitude for your service.

Most jobs were uneventful but occasionally, physical but minor intervention was required to deter an unwanted admirer or, and most commonly, the media. Displays of force were rare and the stereotypical 'brawn over brains' ideology is ill favoured. This isn't a Hollywood feature. A bodyguard is expected to have confidence, common-sense and good communication skills with their client and those involved in maintaining security. It's a common misconception that defensive training was the one and only prerequisite for this career path, and you've lost count how many times the awe exhibited by those who inquired and discovered otherwise.

It was still early days, having been in the profession a couple of years and thereby considered a novice. Eventually, given enough experience and a superior list of credentials, you would go private and work as a personal contractor, but until then you had enlisted at an agency and bodyguards were hired on a 'need be' basis. Contracts were generally short, anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day and sometimes a week at most, but generally no longer. But occasionally there was the odd contract that was for an extended period of time, and one such assignment had been appointment to you.

That's about it, looking over the packed case one last time. It'd be an early start tomorrow, and with that in mind, you ready for bed. The final, fleeting thoughts before sleep consumes consciousness, is that there was nothing else to worry about. Living alone did come with its perks; you could come and go as you pleased.

The venue is vast and situated in the heart of the metropolis, commanding attention of the area. Peering through the window of the taxi, your eyes travel up the advancing brim of the stadium, marvelling at the architectural feat. Must be drawing quite the crowd tonight. Your warm breath, traced with two necessary coffees, mists the glass, obstructing your view. You fall back into the seat, attention diverting to snippets of radio conversation. The event is drawing media coverage.

The bulking figure of the second agency representative sits beside you. Blake. Of all people, you're thankful he was chosen. He's fifty-something, family orientated and had been in the profession for over twenty years now. Ex-military and that's all he'd ever mention. He had been the most welcoming and non-judgemental. He never underestimated your abilities, allowing you to make mistakes and acknowledge and learn from them. He reminded you of that Australian actor; the one who played the grisly superhero. Only Blake wasn't grisly, not in the least, but he utilised his appearance to his advantage. People think twice about fucking with a guy who looked like him, but he was the biggest softy. Though bilingual, his linguistic skill couldn't offer assistance for this assignment, but he offered experience gained from working with a variety of clients. This assignment was nothing he hadn't done before.

Besides the carer choice you shared with Blake, there was one other thing for certain that you had in common: a thrill and desire for power and control; to be of service to someone in this capacity is an awesome feeling. Not long after entering this line of work did you realise that it reflected your personal life. Others at the agency had learned early on that you weren't a 'piece of ass' who thought she'd try dress-up for fun. It took one incident and one idiot for everyone to realise you intended on maintaining a tight separation between you personal life and work life, and that no one was going to succeed wooing you with such alpha tactics. It was laughable. Imagine their surprise should they know your preferences delved into different territories.

The taxi eases to a stop and you abandoned the thought. As Blake settles the costs, fully redeemable by the agency, you exit the vehicle. The contrast of the artificially heated air and fresh breeze is felt immediately. It was colder here, the city experiencing full blown autumn, and unconsciously you tug the collar of your jacket up to shield your neck. As you're inspecting the area, you feel Blake presence at your side.

“The cavalry has arrived,” he boasts enthusiastically.

You roll your eyes in response. “Oh yes. Very fearsome.”

“When you've seen what I have, two people can make a hell of a difference.” His reflective response was a testament to his wealth of knowledge and experience, and served to highlight your naivety, but you respected him nonetheless. “Come on. Let's get inside before my nipples erect.” And then he said something like that.

Flanked at his side, you match his pace with steel resolve and the cold forgotten.

On entry, you're welcomed by the facility manager and introduced to the tour manager and the head of security whom would coordinate alongside Blake and yourself. Blake, being a natural born leader and surpassing you in experience, was the agencies chosen representative and primary liaison between the facility staff and those who have hired the agencies service. It had taken time and understanding of this business to accept that you wouldn’t command respect without first earning it, and made all the more difficult to do so because of your sex. During your transition into the workplace, Blake had offered advise on the matter.

“Don’t let anyone, especially your client, see when shit gets to you,” he’d said. “That's a disadvantage you can't afford.”

Like much of Blake’s advice, you had adopted it if it meant bettering your service. With that in mind, you’re attentive, listening keenly and never straying to distraction.

An identification lanyard now hangs about your neck in addition to the uniform. The dress code was optional within reason but personal preference was dictated by the nature of the job. Foreseeing the long hours, you decided comfortability is a sensible choice. You're dressed in the standard company shirt, tucked into fitted cargo pants and finished with a belt and boots - cushioned insoles included. You favoured a tight pony tail and light makeup to refine a natural appearance. Blake and yourself are equipped with a two-way radio receiver; no dark shades, no suit. It's about practicality and sensibility.

Introductions conclude and swiftly eventuate to the next task of importance: a tour of the stadium lead under the guidance of the event security coordinator. It allows for the opportunity to familiarise yourselves with the environment and learn the layout of the venue, noting key areas such as the main entry and exit points, stairwells and bathrooms, and public and private access. Some areas are a maze of passages that you aim to commit to memory.

Local law enforcement will police the parameter of venue and surrounding areas to appropriately navigate traffic, while facility security will monitor the entrance booths and patrol the corridors and seating area. Private security, being Blake, yourself and the Korean security detail, would operate backstage for that was where the clientele would be situated. For this venue alone there were two scheduled concerts over two nights. Proceeding, there would be an additional recoup day before setting off for the next city and there the routine would repeat again.

While knowing the environment was just one aspect of the job, knowing your client was another. Would they listen and respect your judgement? Were they prone to risk taking or attention seeking behaviours? If so, they were more likely to draw attention, often adverse attention and that's when security was a necessity. Certain clientele were more notorious for such behaviour. You didn't believe in first impressions, hell, you were all too familiar with the misconception, but meeting your client for the first time gave you a sense for what you might expect of them. Intuition was a skill that would be refined in time.

The train of thought keeps you occupied during lunch. It was one of the few but appreciated perks at large events such as this – free food. While the time allowed, you check your phone and send replies to inquisitive friends and concerned family. Before you become too comfortable, the radio crackles and Blake's distorted voice sounds from your hip.

“Up and at it. We've got incoming.”

Taking the receiver in hand, you mumble, “They're early.” Taking another bite of your sandwich.

“And you're still sitting on your ass.” You pout at the device. His intuition was kinda scary.“You're still on your ass. East entrance. Now.”

You resist a mock salute, instead stuffing the remnants of the sandwich into your mouth and brushing the crumbs on your pants. Without further hesitation, you're marching to the destination.

Outside, security gathers and awaits the expected arrival. This entry was strategically separate from civilian access and allowed for the discrete arrival and exit of high profile visitors. A reinforced, automated but staffed security gate was the first check point that filtered entry. Cement barriers shield either side of the road to minimise civilian contact but as Blake points out, the secret entry isn’t so secret. Amused, you observe the small gathering of fans lining the erected barriers - a thriving hive of excitement. Fangirls and fanboys. They never failed to know when and where to be. Their dedication and sources commendable.

The buzz intensifies and you adjust your gaze to the road and observe a sleek, black limo inbound. Passing through the first security check, the limo gains entry and passes through a second check, navigating the road to the venue entrance. Faces indent the fence, peering to claim an advantaged view of the limo. The vehicle parks and the Korean security detail stiffen in attention. One of the doors open and as if on cue, the distant but unison scream announces your client's arrival, and there were few reasons for this particular type of hysteria and loyalty.

A boy-band.

One by one, the idols emerge from the vehicle and silently you count, brows raising a fraction when the number continues to exceed your expectations. When all the members are gathered, you've counted seven in total. Seven surprisingly attractive young men. They could be no more than a few years younger than yourself. They assess their surroundings and you watch as a mixture of curiosity and reservation play upon their delicate features. They're ushered along and the crowd ensures to showcase their undeterred enthusiasm, and like a protective shield, Blake, yourself and the other members of security escort the musicians inside.

Settled inside, the idols are addressed by the tour manager. The conversation is lost on you but the interpreter kindly shares information of importance. Before long, the interpreter steps forward and joins the conversation, gesturing to Blake and yourself. There is a moment of awe and some exclamation which is quickly attributed to the attention directed at your person, and it didn't take a genius to summaries the cause. Their reaction and naivety is too comical to even feel a mild sense of irritation toward the group of guppy-faced musicians. But without fault, you maintain the practiced poker-face, staring long and hard at them.

“Oh! She's so serious.”

“And looks so strong! Do you think she could lift me?”

“With those chicken legs, anyone could lift you.”

“Naw! You're so mean!”

They break into laughter, two shoving each other playfully. You restrain a smile, finding their exuberance contagious though ignorant of what was said. Their manager hushes them and the group simmers to a contained titter, and the discussion continues further interruption. You offer Blake a sidelong glance who smiles with understanding. Remain impassive to provocation, he had once said. This was unlike typical circumstance, but it was important for clients to understand the seriousness of your role and that you weren't easily influence by emotion and a damaged ego.

Time allows you to study each idol, one by one. The email had proved minimal detail on each member, but as personally expected, you had memorised all seven, and was able to select a member at random and assign name to face, even if you weren't confident about pronunciation. They exuded boyish charm and energised charisma, and combined with their youthful attraction was the perfect components for successful entertainers. But what of their talent? You imagine they sung and perhaps danced, but there needed a special ingredient to the mix. Inevitably, you would see in time and as if on cue, the interpreter mentions that they would proceed for practise.

Construction of the stage is near completed with minor adjustments being carried out by stage technicians. A large LED screen extends the stage anterior, flickering with random colour as staff ensure the interconnectivity of every panel. Metal beams raise above and across the foreground, outfitted with spot lights to capture the performance. The stage itself features a large rectangular platform from which a thin path extends from its center, pathing far across the green lawn and to end at a smaller platform. A fence, somewhat flimsy in appearance, surrounds the parameter of the stage and its extension; a meter in width would separate the compacted bodies from the stage and allow security to patrol the barrier, and camera-techs to capture the performance.

With a wardrobe change, the idols are ready for practise, guided by their stage choreographer who motions at different areas of the stage. Blake and yourself roam about the foreground, familiarising yourselves with the area you would spend a better part of the two days. Minimising interference with the group, you follow Blake as he inspects the fenced barrier, pointing out access onto the field, voicing comments aloud, more-so to himself, but you listen. He was thorough, nothing not worth his attention.

“What do you see?”

You regard him briefly, not surprised by the question, then you survey the environment, formulating a response.

“Low risk gig in my opinion. It’s a large venue but considering the demographic, attention will be focused on the performance. Stage-crashers are always a possibility but a minimal one at that.” Blake nods in agreement and you feel like you’ve successfully passed an informal test. “What’s the estimation of sales?”

“Surprisingly, ninety-thousand for the two nights.”

Those were good numbers. They were more popular than you'd given them credit, having not heard of the pop group before this assignment.

Blake spies your contemplative expression and asks, “What of them?”

Sparing a glance at the idols, you summaries your impression of the seven members since introductions and casual observation.

“Babysitting.”

Blake laughs, the arena enhancing his booming voice, briefly drawing attention to yourselves. Perhaps it was harsh and perhaps you were right, but it honest. You predicted that the dressing room wouldn't be trashed nor would you and others have to monitor inebriated persons. They were well mannered but no less enthusiastic and potentially prone to some mischief.

“I can see why you think that.” He grins. “They might surprise you.”

You snort, “I doubt that.”

He chuckles in response, entertained, and with laughter still rumbling in his chest, he retraces the path of the stage, skirting the main platform until you’re both backstage. He then mentions something about having to see to matter and instructs you to remain, throwing “Keep watch, Nanny” as he leaves.

Asshole, you think fondly.

True to his word, your attention trails the idols while monitoring the immediate area. They venture about the platform and extension, getting a sense for the area on which they'll perform. It's not exactly a riveting spectacle but remember that you're not being paid to be entertained. As they make their way back to the main platform, the stage choreographer barks a command which is answered with blaring stereo. The slow introduction of music piques your interest, casually observing as each member claims a position of the stage as the music gathers momentum. Then the beat drops and idols break into dance.

The hip-hop composition is fast-paced and memorised flawlessly, and the longer you watch, you note subtle variations in each members expression of style. They're good, you admit, really good. Impressed by the skill and choreography. As they disperse across the stage, you wander out from the sidelines to spectate. It just needed a sell-out audience to complete the picture. The music begins to ease only to transition into another song and more choreography. You were no dancer, but it rivalled everything you’d seen. The stage choreographer monitors the performance critically but seemingly satisfied.

This continues for a another four songs until the music lulls to a stop. They relax, dropping the staged composure to break into conversation, laughing heartily. The performance has certainty alleviated your bored disposition. As you observe the scene, flitting from one idol to another, you're caught by surprise to match gazes with one member. It's purely accidental, you're sure of that, but he doesn't shy away, holding the connection long enough for you to question his attention. However, the brief moment is severed when he's addresses by another idol.

You think nothing of it.

Rehearsal recommences and you continue to watch, loitering at the sidelines, but ignorant of a habit you quickly develop. You’d never considered yourself prone to distraction, but unconsciously, your gaze frequently strays to one particular member. It’s when you catch yourself, suddenly aware your gaze lingered unusually long and potentially risked being exposed for unwarranted attentions, is the habit realised. You're perplexed for the reason alludes you.

This new found distraction goes by the name: Park Jimin.

Though the encounter had been uneventful and meaningless, since chancing a brief but mutual connection between yourself and silver haired idol, you can't expel a growing curiosity toward him. The exchange was enough to capture your interest, so you indulge in the curiosity with hopes it might explain your gravitating gaze. Before, your attentions were without cause but now with new-found focus. You study the way he moves and intensity of expression as he dances. Perhaps you contemplated unnecessarily and studied too long, fostering a growing attraction, yet your mind wanders to dark places as your eyes unconsciously track his movement.

Get a hold of yourself, you chastise. It wouldn't do you any favours to indulge in such thoughts, especially while on the job and about a current client. Banishing the images, focus returns to the stage where rehearsal has since concluded and you're unexpectedly caught by the mutual attentions of said person. You’re ensnared by his gaze, provoking alarm at the blatant regard and find yourself shying away with an irrational fear that your thoughts are projected for him to know. With mustered composure, you casually cast your eyes around to portray casual but purposeful intention in being there, and hoping to ward off inadvertent attentions. When you gauge enough time has passed, but against better judgement, you chance a glance toward the group with intent to single out Jimin only to be caught off guard. He's expectant, a sly smirk playful upon his lips and you wretch away as if burned, heat colouring your face. Shit, silently cursing the indiscreet conduct.

Hushed conversation and smothered giggles prickle your ears and too often do you suspect eyes to palpate your ridged form. They are, thankfully, more discreet than your previous behaviour. You look anywhere but at the group and try to maintain a low profile, remaining out of sight and beyond the reach of prying eyes, allowing the wordless interaction to dissolve – hoping it will.

Blake returns with five minutes to spare before practise concludes. He doesn't comment on your changed demeanour. If it didn't compromise the assignment, he wouldn't ask questions, but his silence is provoking, if not more so than verbal inquiry. Internally, you're frazzled at having been so careless and so easily provoked. It was unlike you and that is what concerned you most. You had allow personal indulgence to interfere with work. It was a set-back but you'd mask the damage while repairing your professional persona.

As the sweat soaked idols are escorted to their dressing room, your attention stares pointedly ahead, resolute and refusing to give consequence of those whose gaze might drift your way in want of something. When the dressing door closes, concealing them behind its confinements, you sigh with relief, stoicism dropping. Blake observes the immediate change and while ignorant of what transpired in his absence to necessitate the hardened demeanour, he offers comfort in one of few ways he knows you'll accept.

“Coffee?”

You needn't consider his offer long before nodding in agreement.

Sinking into the couch that you'd befriend earlier, steam rises from the styrofoam cup of cheap coffee cradled between your hands. The couch shifts, Blake following your motive. Only silence exists between you. That was another quality you admired about Blake, he re-framed from making unnecessary small talk. The silence is comfortable and welcomed, and you absorb the quiet atmosphere and allow it to clear your mind, reclaiming peace within yourself.

Sometime later you're being nudged awake by Blake, having apparently dozed off. The slightest movement jars the crick in your neck and you grimace at the pain, grumbling complaints.

“Come on, off your ass.” And he offers his hand. You resist shooting him an irritated look, instead taking his hand and allowing his strength to haul you up.

With a series of stretches and carefully testing the movement of your neck, you're satisfied with manoeuvrability and give Blake a thumbs up.

The seven manned group has since been escorted backstage. The collective chanting of thousands of fans is all anyone can hear. Watching the idols as they're equipped with ear-pieces and microphones, you observe a mixture of churning nervousness and adrenaline fuelled excitement. There must be something about performing before thousands of people, you contemplate, that no matter how many times, you'd never get used to it. The group comes together and embrace each other, and you find that it's not just yourself that witnesses the scene fondly, silently wishing them the best.

The lights dim, the crowds hysteria explodes and the idols claim the stage under the darkened disguise. The darkness doesn't subdued the crowd only encouraging their echoing need. The music commences and the stage is illuminated with brilliant light, revealing seven stationary pop-idols commanding the undivided attentions of everyone within the vicinity.

Then it starts.

It was what you'd seen at practise and so much more. Was it their stage presence? The sharply styled clothing? Or maybe they were just really fucking talented? Whatever the mysterious equation, you see for the first time the sum of all those components: a successful boy-band.

Blake was right, you realise. You were if not more than surprised.

Throughout the concert, the idols dash backstage for impressively quick wardrobe changes, and on the first occasion you automatically turn away. Blake's amused by the considerate if not innocent gesture, his laughter barely audible over the combination of cheering and music. You resist shoving him but he can discern your desire to do so and it only provokes him to laugh harder. On the second occasion, you stubbornly refuse to turn your back, instead choosing to avert your eyes. Blake appears if not more entertained with this development, a shit-eating grin plastered across his face. It proves challenging to purposefully ignore him while maintaining the privacy of the changing idols. Yet, try as you do, their frantic movement occupies your peripheral vision, and it takes just one slip.

Your gaze strays, like it had before, and the timing couldn't be worse. At least half the group is naked from the waist up, their sculpted torsos bear to the chilled night and wandering eyes. It wasn't on purpose, you swear, blaming a higher power for the unfortunate timing, but the damage is already done. Jimin is a vision of everything you never realised you desired. Though the lighting is poor, his lithe body is perfectly contoured, defining crafted muscle and holy shit those abs! Not only that, his pants appear insanely tight and you can only image it would take only a flex of muscle to reveal the toned thighs beneath. Sweat glistens upon his chest and neck, and your eyes follow the trail, even appreciating the damp locks. When your gaze meets his, you realise your repeated mistake. He knows your thoughts and you're afraid of what you've unconsciously let slip.

He disregards you so easily, resuming the task of changing clothes. You're acutely aware that he doesn't conduct himself with the same haste as his fellow band members, instead taking pleasure to leisurely indulge in dressing himself. As he pulls on a white singlet, unmistakably his hooded gaze shifts to you, as if to confirm your attention lingered still. Then with deliberately obvious intent, one hand grips the buckle of his belt, pulling at it suggestively to reveal more skin as the singlet is slowly lowered until his torso is eventually concealed.

In that moment, you're many things; perplexed, embarrassed, amused, and just a little turned on. Your mind is in a state of shutting down and rebooting that you can't possibility control your stunned, slack-jawed reaction. And Jimin, seemingly satisfied with the outcome, breaks a crooked smile, taunting you as he shrugs on the accompanying jacket to complete the outfit. It's enough to make you remember yourself, mouth snapping shut which causes him to snigger. How his little exhibition has transpired without notice is beyond you, quickly analysing the attentions of those nearby, yet miraculously it has. It remains a secret shared between yourselves. You return a steady gaze, a smile fighting to break free, so you cross your arms for good measure. He laughs again, the expression so delicate you don't know whether to hate it or love it. The moment is however, fleeting, his attention claimed by a member who clasps his shoulder and gestures to the stage.

With his ploy forgotten, Jimin jogs away along with the six other members. The elevated mood evaporates quickly but leaves a desire fostered by his actions. This was the first day for Christ sake!

The remainder of the night is uneventful, in one particular sense, but a success for the idols. The crowd roars with applause; thousands of fans crying simultaneously with joy and anguish at the concerts inevitable conclusion. The members provide one final bow, waving and throwing kisses to the audience as they withdraw backstage. Their manager intercepts them, gushing praise and the boys congratulate each other in a rowdy manner. Though what you thought matter, you're happy for them; they had earned it.

Jimin and yourself don't cross paths again that night. What's odd is that you take notice of that fact.

Minutes from midnight and comfortably settled into pyjamas, you sit cross-legged on the hotel bed, and it was a relatively nice hotel, you note appreciatively. Conveniently situated near the venue, it was but a five minute fare. The agency hadn't been too frugal with expenditures. The room divider, a pair of sliding doors, is open providing unrestricted view into the opposite room. Blake and yourself, like minded at times, are irrevocably attached to your phones. For the past ten minutes, you've persistently scrolled through Spotify in search of the familiar tones of the songs you've been repeatedly exposed to today. With each successful find, the song it added to your play-list and growing variety of music. All the while, you've unconsciously subjected Blake to the incessant skipping of music during your determined search.

“At least use your headphones.” He grumbles.

“You're welcome to close the door,” you reply dismissively. He glares but the non-verbal retaliation goes unnoticed as your attention never strays from the device in-hand.

“Do you want to coexist amicably these next few weeks?”

It's more so the tone than the question itself that successfully pries your eyes from their attachment to regard Blake. He stares dangerously with prospect of the repercussions should you not head his warning. The last thing you needed was to piss him off and warrant his wrath.

“Fine,” you drawl, muting the music. “I won't torture you unnecessarily with my music. So long as I get to smother you if I'm woken by your snoring.” You counter.

“Can't help that I snore,” he sniffs.

“Help it.”

He removes himself from the bed, all the while grumbling 'it's not my fault' and 'you started it' as he closes the sliding door.

“Goodnight!” you call, laughter colouring the expression.

With the negotiation concluded, you decided it best to follow suit and retire. The following morning, you take delight in goading Blake, reporting that you slept soundly and without disturbance. You cease his torture when he lunges for your phone.

You expected day two to play out much the same. Fully rested, you're prepared to bounce back into routine. Ahead of the bands arrival, Blake and yourself reviewed updates from the facility and tour manager. There were no issues reported from the night before. No security breached. All is well and was positively assured for the second and final night at this venue.

Blake wittingly assigns you to babysitting duty, payback for last night. Despite his best to rile you, and though you wouldn't admit it aloud, you can't deny the nervous flutter at the prospect of coming face to face with one particular idol in light of yesterdays incident. But such concerns are masked behind neutrality.

The stage had been substituted for a large rehearsal room. You overhear the commotion behind the door, the group expectantly enthusiastic. Really, there was no need for your presence within the room, but you needed to confirm they were all accounted. Perhaps overly formal but you choose to rap on the door before entering, the room quietening at the sound. You're meet with the inquisitive stares of all within.

“Hello!” One idol shouts, waving animatedly.

You’re taken back by the greeting. The idol in question possessed a sunny disposition, Hoseok, if you remembered correctly, and inwardly you warm to his friendly nature and offer a smile in return which serves to inspire to a winning grin, all cheeks and teeth that he boasts to his peers.

“See, she can smile.”

“Nobody said she couldn't smile.”

“Her eyes are expressive.”

“Yea, they express a special something for Jimin!”

The group explodes into laughter, evidently Jimin being the target of the fun as he’s affectionately jostled by the other members. The corner of his eyes pull in an attractive fashion, cheeks dimpling as he laughs along with them. You take caution during your observation, wanting to avoid a repeat of yesterday, but you acknowledge the difficulty of ignoring his person.

Without that thought occupying the back of your mind, you ascertain that all seven idols are accounted for.

Someone claps suddenly, jolting you from your fixed daze and quietening the rowdy group. He commands the attention of his peers, exhibiting leadership as he addresses the six youths. So he was the band front-man, you deduce, the smooth confidence of Namjoon radiating. His tone is affable, speaking with purpose but as their equal. When he concludes, he utilises a remote to commence the music. Everyone disperses, claiming formation across the buffed, wood floor to perceive themselves in the full length mirrors of the feature wall.

You needn't stay, reasonable that the room could - should - be guarded from outside, but gravity fastens you still, and you don't fight, compelled to remain by the unnameable force. Just five minutes, you lie.

The following hour consists of relentless rehearsing but the idols persevere with feats of stamina; their dedication unquestionable. They break twice, replenishing themselves with sports drinks while wiping away the accumulation of sweat. During the first interval, you observe with mild interest, as Jimin is cajoled by this friends, their influence obvious and insistent. He protests weakly, perhaps not overly opposed, but his demeanour expressing hesitance. The nature of the situation, you soon discover, is made apparent when under the influence of their incessant hands, he’s guided toward you. He swots at them impatiently but a smile never falters from his lips. He casts one last look back toward the group and they beckon him forward with words of encouragement and one final push. He utilises that momentum to carry him forward, and as he leaves the safeguard of the group, and all attention invests in the orchestrated union.

You sharpen as he approaches, guarded and critical. He's nervous, you perceive. Radically different to his conduct last night which was strategically hidden beneath stage confidence and an awareness of his physical attraction. He holds his chin defiantly, shoulders tight and square yet saunters with ease that might otherwise fool you. It's his eyes; they evoke innocent intrigue but nervousness. When he pauses before you, you can't help regard his actions with caution. He falters under the severity of your analysis, eyes retreating from your own, perhaps reconsidering the plot of his friends. But the momentary lapse is overcome when he presents to you a bottle of water, somehow concealed. You're shocked by his consideration, the gestured unexpected and sincere. The moment hinges on bated breath, all waiting in eager anticipation of what will happen. You move as if automated, accepting the offered drink, expression softening to betray a subtle smile and he swells with giddy happiness, ducking his head as he grins. He chances a final glance, catching your laughing eyes and flushes. He nods, a polite farewell, and retreats to the safety of the watchful six manned group, openly inquisitive of the exchange they instigated.

His return is met with cheers of triumph, as if he had achieved an incredible feat deserving praise and acknowledgement. It was comical and almost ridiculous, enough that you hide a chuckle before loosening the capped bottle. You take a generous gulp of the cool drink, ignorant of how thirsty you were until the liquid relieves the starvation of your throat, pooling coolly in the pit of your stomach. It was a satisfying sensation.

The heightened mood continues a minute longer and you observe as Jimin engages in whispered conversation, primarily with Namjoon. You can’t fathom the reasoning for their secrecy, but when they unanimously glance your way, you're expectant of another ploy in the making. Namjoon calls the other members to attention and they huddle together, heads lowered as they concoct their plan. Some giggle while others, they too, peek slyly from the sheltered cluster. When eventually they break apart, aligning themselves in preparation of what you perceive to continue rehearsal, what strikes you surprised is that instead of facing the mirrored wall, they face you. While you're acutely aware of the collective attention on your person, it's the attention of one that ultimately matters, and you can't fight the unnerving tickle of excitement and anticipation.

Namjoon holds the remote, poised to commence his shared plan and says, “He said this one is for you.”

You're struck surprised by his fluency, even more so by his meaning, but you don't question it, allowing them to show you. The introduction of a song begins to play and he pockets the remote. Jimin stars centre stage, eyes keen and pointed, a smirk playful upon his lips, resembling the cocky entertainer from last night.

With unison, they break into dance, immersed in the music and perfectly synced. Each movement of their bodies is influenced by emotion; a slave to the songs expression. You're mesmerised, unable to tear away from the performance. A private audience for one. You’re paralysed by their hypnotic movement and gyrating hips. What would presumably be a four minute routine seems longer and for that time, you've forgotten the purpose in being there, that anything existed beyond this realm of choreographed seduction. All that mattered was a growing and dangerous desire that darkened your eyes.

They simultaneously freeze, holding the struck positions. You blink, breaking the spell and finding yourself breathing again, and they too, drop the stance, overcome with exhaustion. It was deserving of an applause of thousands! Yet, in fear of yourself, you dare not move. But he waits, they all did, expectant of some expression or gesture of your approval. He need only a taste validation, enough for him to crave more. It need be something simple and not overly gratuitous. Then an idea strikes you and you must resist smirking.

Pushing from the wall, your heavy boots tread across the wooden floor. You're the epitome of composure and congratulate yourself on the mastered skill. With each step, Jimin's eyes marginally widen, the heighten thrill from his bold performance crumbling, and you saver his unravelling resolve. With precise imitation of his gesture, you present the water bottle, brow arching with silent challenge and perhaps a little condescension. He appears baffled, at a loss to your reasoning, yet still he accepts the presented gift, and it's not until you wink at him on turning away he realises you jest. The barest hint of a smile assures him of your appreciation and he’s left to ponder what has transpired as he's swarmed with eager question of the group.

Before a grin threatens to break from ear to ear, something motions by the door and on identifying Blake, you straighten in attentiveness. His gaze passes over you, interest resting on the clamouring idols. Almost obediently, you walk over to stand at his side, awaiting his acknowledgement.

“How things?” he asks.

You can't help regard him slyly, looking for a trace of the questions subtext, what ever it might be, but Blake hints to nothing, and you should've expected such. Deliberating an answer, you share Blake's regard of the chattering youths, summarising the events of the past hour. Jimin looks over, equipped with a dimpled grin and you find yourself biting you're cheek to suppress the betrayal of a smile.

Confident in you're ability to reply without fault, you reply, “Interesting.”

“Should I be concerned?”

Turning to him again, brows arching, you ask innocently, “About what?”

“That you and pretty boy were blatantly eye-fucking each other,” he replies, deadpanned.

“Harmless, I assure you.” Marking your heart with a cross, yet the sly smirk doesn't inspire confidence. Blake chuckles, a deep heart-felt sound, and shakes his head.

“Try to keep it in your pants.” And you feign injury at the connotation. But in honestly, he needn’t worry. It was all merely innocent fun.

It was time.

One by one the idols leave the confinements of the dressing room, exuding excitement and joviality. They're sharp and styled, a flare of make-up accentuating their fine features. High fashion models beware.

The manager leads the group, two security guards flanking the group, Blake and yourself leading the rear. The corridor is a congested highway of bodies; everyone rushing to ensure a flawless night, though they part to allow the group to pass without being detained. Your constantly on the lookout, a natural instinct; assessing and interpreting risks, not that you expected such but being cautious wasn't wasted effort.

It takes only a matter of minutes to get backstage, the area darkened and noisey. As the technicians are equipping concealable earpieces, you look from one member to another only to realise something.

Six? No, that can't be right, recounting the group. One, two, three...six. But the number adds up the same. Six idols minus one silver haired menace. You've got to be kidding me?! Nudging Blake, you draw his attention.

“We’re one short.” Jutting your chin toward the group. “Park Jimin is MIA.”

He frowns, seemingly sceptic until you watch the realised truth of your comment dawn on his face as he counts for himself.

“How the fuck did this happen?” his tone interrogating.

“I don’t fucking know,” you hiss. “There were all present when we left.”

“You sure of that?”

That you were, having done a head count before the group had been escorted. Something had gone awry between then and now. The corridors had been chaotic; too many bodies crammed together. Something wasn't right, and you spare a look toward the idols who appear awfully amused and shrewd.

“Shit.” You mutter.

“What?”

“ I - no, it's nothing.” Voicing your suspicion wouldn't aid issue

“Nothing is no use right now,” Blake quips irritably. “Find him and make it quick.”

Your lips part, a defense prepped on your tongue, but you let your ego take the hit. So you nod and exit the stage. Once clear of the darkened environment, you break into a jog, swerving between the stage crew who still busy the corridors.

You can't say where he'd separated from the group but make for the bathroom along the way. Bursting through the door, an anonymous man screeches with surprise, compromised by the urinal.

“Don't mind me,” you say distractedly, stalking into the bathroom. One by one, you push open each stall, waiting to meet the resistance of a locked door and hoping to find your missing idol, but your hand meets no such resistance, and the final door is swings open. Shit! That ruled out one area, and that questioned the next destination. Pivoting, you make for the exit, another apology thrown at the still shocked occupant who watches you leave with single-minded purpose.

Emotions coil in your stomach, threatening to expose themselves. You're pissed off, embarrassed, frustrated and concerned. Stalking to the destination, your pulse quickens, heightened by the building anticipation. You better be here! Throwing open the dressing room door, you march inside expecting the worse only to find the source your unnecessary stress, complacent and expecting.

Jimin sits before one of the mirrors, cast in the revealing light of the rectangular arranged globes, highlighting his flawless complexion. His attention diverts from the mobile in-hand, flickering to acknowledge the sudden interruption.

”Took you long enough.” He mumbles.

You're awash with sudden and unexpected relief. He's safe. But the emotion is fleeting, contested by confusion and growing irritation fostered by his lack of reactivity and indifference. He doesn't motion to move or attempt to express an explanation for why he's been found here when he's expected elsewhere. You're honestly confounded by the situation and it only serves to flame your simmering anger.

“Hey!” Aiming to command attention, but you're ignored and it furthers to dominate your surging irritation. “Jimin?” you press, but still nothing. Growling, you storm forward, patience exhausted. Grabbing the back of the chair, you swivel it around and it's occupant until you're face to face. He perceives you lazily and it succeeds to push you to breaking point. Fucking musicians.

Steadying your voice to a wavering calm, you do your best to speak reason.“You. Need. To. Go.” And gesture to the door, hoping he'll understand the improv. He regards the door and you again.

“No.”

You might not speak the language, but you're sure as hell know what a flat out refusal sounds like.

“That wasn't a suggestion.” Plucking the mobile from his hand and pocketing the device. You cross your arms, raised brows daring him to protest. “We're going. Now.” He maintains a leveled gaze and you meet is head-on, unyielding. This was one power-play he wouldn't win. He raises slowly, never wavering, but there is an immediate shift; attuned to an unspoken or gestured change in his character.

His shadowed eyes reflect an ambiguous intensity, and you're gripped by sudden transformation. Automatically, you assume the worst, that you've overstepped an undefined boundary and provoked him. But he doesn't lash out verbally and his physique doesn't suggest anger. Instead, his chin lifts, sudden like, as if to gesture a challenge.

Then, tentatively, his hand reaches out toward and you. Stunned, you watch the seemingly slow approaching hand, but at the last second grasp his wrist, halting further movement. You want to object to this, to whatever this game was, but words fail you, dying in your throat. And you know that your composure has since faltered, expressing perplexity, and Jimin preys on the vulnerability, persistent in his ploy. He steps closer, unbearably close, and your mind is screaming caution; the situations trajectory entering dangerous territory. Abort! Yet, he continues without expressed objection on account of yourself, his unrestrained hand plucking the seam of your collar with feigned interest. His fingers trace the seam, gliding up and down with sensual purpose, coyly watching the conflict play upon your face – gauging for the moment his victory is assured.

“Jimin,” you hiss in warning.

He feigns ignorance, head tilting marginally, teeth catching his bottom lip and god-damn, you're doomed for eternity. Those fucking eyes, wanton and heavy and beckoning - how could you resist? And it's in that moment that Jimin fastens his grip on you, and caught within his carnal spell, you allow him to pull you down, capturing your lips.

It's gentle and soft, barely a kiss, and it's for the briefest moment when he inclines to pull way – reeling in the bait. Such a simple yet profound gesture for your undoing. You act on instinct, claiming what had been taunted. You claim his lips with no intention for gentle gestures. It's raw and hungry; everything that had accumulated to this point. Teeth on teeth clash in the domineering attack, mercilessly claiming those full lips and mouth hot.

But it's not enough.

Your hands, insistent and undisputed, guide him backwards, stumbling blindly past the chair and until the bench hits the back of his legs. Still you persist, urging him back and he catches the hint, propping himself onto the bench-top. He stares, eyes alive and thrilled, and oh, how you want to make him regret it. You want - want everything he has to offer, and he'll do so. He'll beg. Your hands hasten upon his hips, and with a swift tug, pull your pelvises flush against one another. A grin shapes those full lips and you crave them again.

The onslaught of tongue, lips and heat recommences, and you bite into that bottom lip that he had so shamelessly teased earlier. Greedy hands snake beneath his top, mapping and groping everything within reach, all the while devouring him with another kiss. He is all the right components of soft and hard – simply perfect. He gasps into your mouth as a thumb brushes a nipple, and your voracious appetite demands more, pinching the small mound and you're not disappointed.

“Is this what you want?” You whisper, releasing his mouth so that he may exclaim again, and he does. Through gritted teeth he whines, eyes squeezed shut, and its enough to satisfy you, if momentarily.

Delicate kisses trail his jaw, his neck, a balm to the nails that rack across his abdomen with aim to imprint and leave mark of your possession. A souvenir for him to remember you by.

“Have you found Park?”

The radio crackles at the cessation of the transmission and you pause your attack, attempting to process the question through the lustful haze.

“(Y/L/N)?”

You breathe a sigh of frustration against Jimin's neck, growing irritated by the continual disturbance. Inclining away, you pin Jimin with your heated gaze, and reply into the receiver.

“(Y/L/N) here. I've located Park.”

“What's the situation?” His voice unquestionably testy.

“The situation is...under control.” It was so fucking cliché but you can't resist smirking at the double entendre. To prove the point, you angle your hips down and Jimin whimpers.

“Then hurry your ass up,” he growls, ending the transmission.

Impatient asshole, discarding the device on the bench, perhaps too carelessly. Jimin, having regained some composure, quirks a brow in question of the brief conversation. Blake was right and you hate that he was. The concert was scheduled to start at anytime! Jimin, as if sensing the internal battle, wraps his legs about your waist, securing you. He fastens his fingers into your shirt, and tugs incessantly. You level him with a look, rationalising. Events have long exceeded the point of no return, doomed by your actions, and you consider no point to stop now.

Your thumb brushes his bottom lip, admiring its fullness from the abuse of your mouth. Then tilting his chin, you lean in to kiss him gently and slow. While he's distracted, a hand slides between your bodies and grasps the mound of his pants, earning a gasp. You massage and kneed the area, sweet sounds escaping between the breath of space between your mouths. His grip moves to your arms but you're not having that. Distantly thanking your defence training, swiftly his wrists are secured and panted against the mirror. He protests with a whine, but he'll have real reason to protest soon enough. With effortless ease, your unencumbered hand works diligently to unfasten the belt and then the button of his pants. Then with devilishly slow movement, the zipper is drawn down, prolonging the tension. Commando, you note approvingly, and claim your prize, revealing his stifled cock from the oh so tight confinement of his tight pants.

Pretty thing it was, flushed and perfectly girthed to fit comfortably within the grasp of your hand. Testing Jimin's arousal, you thumb the head of his cock, massaging the slit with precum, and he mewls. His expression is agony and pleasure, contorted beautifully; an instrument willingly submitted and at your behest. And glutinous for his pleads, you stroke him with precision to earn such exclamations. Hot, searing kisses mark his neck and jaw, feeling the erratic pulse of his jugular. He resists the hold, arms struggling weakly to wiggle free of the iron-clad hold. You smirk into his neck, relishing in the futile attempt, but reprimand the behaviour with a series of trailing bites for his disobedience. He whimpers into your ear, oh, and what a sweet sound it is. All the while you pump at his cock, fast and dirty – time is of the essence.

You know he's close. He pants feverishly, arching into you, legs straining about your waist. Come on, you urge, eyes keen on his face as you drink in the writhing of expression; pink lips parted and face wrought with pleasure. It was everything. Fastening your hold, the pace slows to controlled, lengthy strokes. He bucks into your hand, so naughty and eager, and then he reaches his peak. He cries out and conscious of the volume, you kiss him, swallowing every moan and exclamation of his orgasm. He spills over your hand but it only serves to fuel the task of maintaining the pace.

When he's milked of everything he possesses, you pull back slightly to appreciate the view. His slack expression is reward enough and you fondly brush his bangs. Now what to do with you? There's a box of tissues on the counter, and plucking a few you proceed to remove his essence while inspecting yourself. There could be no evidence of your conduct. However, on regarding Jimin, you grimace, noting the stained shirt and glistening perspiration. He meets the look lazily, still drunk on his high.

There was a rack of clothes and thankfully they're named. Selecting another top from Jimin's section, not quite a replica of the damage goods, but hopefully no one will notice the sudden wardrobe change. Returning to him, you offer the clothing and he takes it without question. Standing, he tucks himself away, unabashed as you watch. Then stripping off the shirt, you're gifted the chance to look upon him once again; the lighting in your favour this time. He's all too aware of his captivated audience and doesn't cower under the scrutiny. Lastly, he regards his reflection, patting away the sweat and brushing a hand through his hair. Satisfied, he turns to you, offering a soft smile, unperturbed by the events.

It’s difficult to reciprocate his ease.

He strides past toward the exit, and with his hand upon the door handle, he inclines his head in question when you don’t follow. Daunting realisation threatens to ruin your resolve. Fuck. You release a deep, long breath as he opens the door. The first foot forward marks the hastened facade you’ve constructed to make it through the remainder of the night. You trail behind him all the way, and Jimin’s conscious of your presence, feeling your eyes bore into his back.

Backstage, your bodies are swallowed by darkness and the energetic crowd chants eagerly. As you near the expectant group, Jimin stops and turns to address you and your breath stalls.

He steps closer and want you back-away, fearing the intimate interaction will draw attention. Worry creases your brow, hands bawled at your sides and if he notices, he doesn’t show. He radiates an unfathomable calm yet still maintaining a hint of that shy personality you’ve witnessed; much unlike his forward and seductive counterpart. He smiles again and it almost inspires confidence that maybe everything will be alright.

“Don’t worry, it’s our secret,” he says, and what you wouldn’t give to know what he said. “Wish me good luck!” And with a wink, he leaves.

You don't have time to consider the possibly of his words nor the incident before Blake is breathing down your neck, and demanding an explanation. It's easily avoided, casually throwing in the reminder that you're dealing with musicians, and he accepts the comment though evidently doubtful it’s the whole truth. Your focus returns to guarding tonight’s show and your secret. But as the show commences and a screams roar from the crowd, an unmistakable fact shadows your thoughts: you’re not nearly as guilty as you’d expect yourself to be, nor of the consequences if you’re inappropriate conduct becomes known. And in addition to that, there was still four weeks left of the tour...

End.

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