#instead of using it all to purchase the house outright

[reflectionsofgalaxies]

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[foxyanon]

Convincingly Human: Part 1

Summary: Sihtric moves to Coocham and meets an interesting woman with a secret. Takes place between Season 2 and Season 3.

Pairing: Sihtric Kjartansson x Dragon Shifter!reader

Rating: 18+, MDNI

TW: creature death by fire

Word Count: 2208

Part 2

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters from The Last Kingdom nor do I own any of the images used.

Dividers by @arcielee and @zaldritzosrose

He had moved to Coocham with Uhtred and the rest of the men, finally settling down after all the events following Beamfleot. Even though his lord had denied his request to marry so he may start a family, after everything that happened, he was just a bit relieved. He wouldn’t admit it, but it wasn’t until after the battle when he realized he wasn’t quite ready for that chapter of his life. At least, that is what he thought until he met her many moons after he settled into his own home.

The first time he had seen her, he was completely taken back by her beauty. Stunning would be an understatement of a word to describe her, a sentiment shared by many of the men in Coocham. She only ever visited the market once a week, purchasing supplies before leaving Coocham once more to wherever she went. Sihtric was enamored immediately, not letting the teasing and jests of his friends stop him from attempting to pursue her. He learned she didn’t live in town from the baker’s wife, apparently choosing to remain separated from society but for what reason no one could say. The day he finally gathered up the courage to approach her was one he’ll remember fondly, the way she spoke to him with genuine kindness and the way she said his name after introducing herself had his palms sweating from the nerves. It wasn’t until she practically floated away at the end of their brief interaction that he realized there was far more to her than meets the eye.

After that day, he started watching her far more closely, noting the way she carried herself with a confidence even Uhtred could not match and moved unnaturally gracefully. Her skin was flawless, not such much as even a freckle on her face. Her teeth were pearly white and straight, something he had never seen before. There were no scars or calluses on her hands, no dirty nails or even dirt on her. She was easily the cleanest woman he had ever seen, no dirt or dust on her clothes and not a hair out of place from her simple styles. In truth, she was perfect. Too perfect.

He tried bringing it up to Finan and Osferth a week later, but they brushed him off and said he shouldn’t look too far into it, both of them more concerned with enjoying the relative peace they were afforded for the time. He didn’t wish to bother Uhtred with his concerns, since he was busy with his own duties and his family. No one else was willing to hear his words on the matter and instead, he figured that he was the only one who noticed that there was something off about this woman.

It took a few months of observing and getting nowhere, so he finally decided to ask her to join him for a drink at the ale house. Perhaps if she had a little alcohol in her system, she would slip up and Sihtric would see beyond the illusion that surrounded her. Was it the proper thing to do? No, but he was too scared to ask her outright in the event he offended her and something in her demeanor warned him not to do that. When she agreed to join him that evening, he won’t deny the sheer joy he felt at the possibility of spending more than just a few moments in her presence made him forget the whole reason he asked in the first place.

The evening passed by smoothly, ale flowing and conversation moving at just the right pace, but she didn’t show any signs of being affected at all. Sihtric was dumbfounded, she had matched him mug for mug and didn’t so much as even slur a single word. The ale house was warm from all the bodies occupying the hall, and even though he was starting to sweat from heat, she seemed completely unphased by it. Gods, her face wasn’t even flushed, but no one else noticed since they were too deep in their cups or focused on their lovers.

At one point, the ale house was so loud he leaned closer to her he could say something to her only for the most potent and intoxicating scent radiating off her skin to overwhelm his senses. It was rich and smoky, slightly sweet and altogether not entirely unpleasant. He groaned softly before catching himself, his eyes locking with hers as she gave him a knowing grin. Sihtric flushed with embarrassment, clearing his throat and downing the rest of his drink and forgetting what he was doing, once again. Every time he spoke, she gave him her undivided attention and when the torch light flickered against her eyes, he swore they appeared almost serpentine and glowed with an inner fire, but when he blinked they were normal once more. He thought maybe his ale addled mind was playing tricks on him, but something in the way she smiled at him told him otherwise.

That night, after having said goodbye and parting ways, Sihtric didn’t sleep a wink as he mulled over every interaction with her. He thought himself to exhaustion, thinking how she remained a mystery even after an entire evening spent with her. She looked and acted human, but only on the surface. He couldn’t quite wrap his mind around it, refusing to believe she was something more on just blind faith. Maybe Finan and Osferth were right, he shouldn’t look too far into it, lest he find an answer he isn’t ready for. His last thought before succumbing to sleep was that he should just accept this was something he was not meant to know.

Rumors from traveling merchants had the whole of Coocham abuzz, stories of some beasts lurking within the woods and preying on the unsuspecting along the roads setting Sihtric on edge. He wasn’t completely oblivious to the rumors that unnatural creatures lurked within the forests at night, but his fear was less for himself and more for his pretty lady. He knew she lived out there alone and even if she was more than a little strange, he worried for her safety against those monsters. When he saw her next, he pulled her off to the side, wanting her to stay in town with him for the time but she refused.

”Please, my lady. It is not safe for you to be alone out there, the stories from travelers worsen everyday. Is there nothing I can say to convince you to stay in town?” He all but pleaded with her, staring into her enchanting eyes and hoping she would see reason.

“I promise you Sihtric, I will be fine. There is nothing out there that will harm me, trust me. Your concern for me is touching and I do appreciate it, but it is wholly unnecessary,” was her response before she glided off once more, leaving him at a loss for words.

He ran his hand down his face after she had left, thinking of how he could ensure her safety before deciding to do something impulsive. If she wouldn’t stay with him, then maybe he could keep an eye on her out there. Which is exactly what he would do, loading his horse with supplies for a day or two after informing Uhtred he was going to look into the rumors of these beasts. It wasn’t a complete lie, but he knew his lord wouldn’t just let him leave if he said he wanted to check in on a random woman. Finan gave him a knowing look, but he knew better than to try and stop the Dane when he had that determined look in his eye.

So, here he was, riding out towards where he guessed his mysterious lady lived as the sun began its descent in the early afternoon. It was foolish and reckless, but he was a warrior and had no fear facing that which goes bump in the night. He set up camp in a clearing after having wandered for some time, the sky varying shades of purple and blue as the sun sank low on the horizon, having not had luck finding where she might live. Normally, the sounds of the night didn’t bother him but this night was different. He couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched and he was consciously aware that he was alone out here, the moonlight casting its pale glow on the wildflowers that grew among the grass. He fell into an uneasy sleep in his bedroll, the fire dying down and the chill of the night slowly creeping into his furs.

A low growl woke him from his fitful sleep, his eyes snapping open as he saw the unmistakable yellow eyes of a werewolf staring back at him. The large beast was on all fours, saliva dripping from its open mouth and teeth gleaming in the moonlight. The two stared at each other, Sihtric cursing himself internally for not having packed a silver blade in his haste to leave Coocham as he wrapped his hand around the hilt of his sword, preparing for a fight he may not win. He knew the only way to land even a blow would come from the element of surprise and well timed dodging, as there was no way he would move faster or be stronger than the werewolf. For a beat, they merely looked at each other before the wolf launched himself at Sihtric, the latter dodging at the last moment and bringing his blade down to slash at the torso. He managed to slice a shallow cut, only serving to anger the creature much to his chagrin. The feral and now pissed werewolf backhanded Sihtric in the stomach, effectively throwing him several feet away from the small camp and knocking the wind out of him as his sword was flung from his grasp.

Just as Sihtric’s vision cleared slightly, the beast was on him, pinning him down with its large paws and snarling in his face. His hands came up to push against the creature's chest, pouring every ounce of his strength into fighting it off. Before the wolf could make the final kill, a loud roar filled the air before the ground shook and a massive dragon landed harshly not far from the fighting pair. The wolf seemed to be distracted by the newest arrival, giving Sihtric the opportunity to wiggle out from under it as the dragon slowly advanced on them, a deep rumble escaping its maw. He stared at the mythical creature, feeling light headed from both the fight and the realization that such a being existed. Sure he had heard stories, but they were supposed to be just that, stories.

The two supernatural entities growled and snarled at each other, the werewolf clearly not wanting to fight but angered its meal was interrupted. Sihtric tried to slowly make his way to his blade, giving the creatures a wide berth while keeping his eyes on them. He was breathing heavy and moving slow, the adrenaline beginning to wear off and the pain of his injuries making themselves known. No sooner than he had his sword in hand did the dragon roar lowly once more, a warning for the wolf to leave or else. Seeming to consider its options, its yellowed gaze switching between Sihtric and the scaled beast before deciding to try its luck at getting Sihtric. A foolish choice, and its last.

Before the werewolf made a bound in his direction, scorching hot fire poured from the mouth of the dragon and engulfed the werewolf. The smell of burning flush and the sound of crying wolf overwhelmed Sihtric’s already sensitive senses, and his vision blurred at the edges as he turned away and proceeded to hurl the contents of his stomach onto the barely lit ground. He used his sword as a makeshift cane as he dropped to his knees, the familiar feeling of the hilt grounding him in his rapidly shifting reality. He turned his head and looked at the dragon, who was already watching him closely. He may have imagined it, but he could swear the damned thing looked concerned for him. He had no fight left in him, a look of acceptance for his inevitable death crossing his face as he hoped the dragon would make it quick.

Naturally, this night would only get weirder for him as the beast walked a bit closer before its scales started to twist and fold in on itself, shrinking in size until the unmistakable look of human legs and arms appeared as it shifted into its mortal form. The wings wrapped around the now human, scales disappearing beneath skin as it walked closer, the face of the dragon morphing into a face Sihtric knew all too well. Horns slowly shrank into her skull and as leathery wings forced their way back into her skin between her shoulder blades. Sihtric’s vision blurred once more as the blood rushed to his head, the last thing he saw before fainting entirely being the face of the woman he had been out here for, her bare arms catching him before his head hit the ground.

Tagging: @sihtricfedaraaahvicius @whitedarkmoonflower @gemini-mama @mrsarnasdelicious @synintheraven

@zaldritzosrose @alexagirlie @legitalicat @thenameswinter99 @fallingintoyourlilaceyes

[lauralot89]

In the afternoon Mr. Renfield asked if he might see me. Poor man, he was very gentle, and when I came away he kissed my hand and bade God bless me.

Renfield is currently the only member of the cast who's not an idiot. Mina sort of gets a pass because vampire influence, but apparently the whole Crew of Light shared one brain cell and Lucy took it to the grave

I hope I have not done wrong

you have, sweetie

She looked heavy and sleepy and pale, and far from well.

Jonathan. Jonathan please. You are the only living member left of the conspiracy who was up close and personal with a vampire. SEE THE SIGNS.

Everyone noticing that something's wrong with Mina and brushing it off is giving major Revenge of the Sith vibes when Mace Windu is all "I sense a plot to destroy the Jedi" and then does nothing about it

An interview with a surly gatekeeper and a surlier foreman, both of whom were appeased with the coin of the realm

I know that Dracula is a novel about the power of friendship and research, but it's also about the power of bribery

"There was the old party what engaged me a-waitin' in the 'ouse at Purfleet. He 'elped me to lift the boxes and put them in the dray. Curse me, but he was the strongest chap I ever struck, an' him a old feller, with a white moustache, one that thin you would think he couldn't throw a shadder."

why does the thought of Dracula engaged in menial labor still amuse me so when he's been doing it through the whole book

something about mundane vampires just gets me

You know

Dracula could have just eaten the deliverymen like the day after they finished their jobs for him and then he wouldn't have left this obvious trail. Or transported the boxes himself. Or gone into the offices of the men he hired and compelled them to destroy the records. But Dracula doesn't have any brain cells either.

"Pardon me," I said, with equal politeness, "but I have a special reason for wishing to know who purchased it."

Jonathan you are a solicitor, you have to know better than to think they'll just tell you outright

This was manifestly a prig of the first water, and there was no use arguing with him.

Jonathan honey, I love you, and I support you, but why would this person tell a complete stranger who they sold a house to

I got a cup of tea at the Aërated Bread Company

what in the hell is aerated bread

Thank God, the ceasing of telling things has made no difference between us.

so I read yesterday's update to my mom last night and she kept yelling "SO STUPID" at the characters and that is how I feel right now.

agency duck

this is how I'm going to refer to real estate agents from now on

The old physicians took account of things which their followers do not accept, and the Professor is searching for witch and demon cures which may be useful to us later.

can you imagine if instead of killing Dracula to save Mina, they had to cure him? like what even happens at that point? would his human soul regain its power and be thankful, or was he just the worst even before he went vamp and now they have to deal with him using his vast fortune to bury them all in petty legal disputes for the rest of his life as revenge

I sometimes think we must be all mad

no, dear, you're just very very stupid

The attendant came bursting into my room and told me that Renfield had somehow met with some accident. He had heard him yell; and when he went to him found him lying on his face on the floor, all covered with blood. I must go at once….

GREAT WORK DOCTOR

also I forgot but yesterday's update mentioned Renfield singing gaily so to keep my word I must do it again

Pour one out for Renfield, the only character who still has a brain

[crowcryptid]

Gamers once again teaching studios they can get away with anything and be rewarded for it

Context: for warcrafts 30th anniversary they released a mount that costs *$90 irl. Yes that’s more than a full AAA game.

* technically you can buy it with in game money via the wow token system. But blizzard makes money either way.

Wow tokens are bought for $20 and listed on the auction house. The auction house lets you buy and sell items between players without actually needing to track them down in game. Then players with enough in game money can buy that token. The original token owner gets the in game money, this is the only way to legitimately buy gold. The person who buys the token off the auction house can redeem it for 1 month of game time or for $15 credit on their account. So you can turn game currency into gift cards basically. But they can only be used for blizzard games: overwatch, cod, etc.

As you can see it’s affecting the prices of tokens, though it seems to be going down now. The point is that blizz gets $20 instead of the $15 for a sub (or less if you buy the sub in bulk) so it’s more profitable to sell tokens than regular subs.

So players who buy game time via in game gold are fucked since prices went up. People who buy gold are getting way more gold for their tokens. Blizz gets a shit ton from $90 mounts and $20 tokens.

But you may be wondering: why would anyone ever buy a $90 mount? This mount has an auction house and mailbox on it. The auction house is the only way to make enough gold to pay for your sub/buy new games as well as properly power yourself up. The mailbox is just there to receive your gold or items from the auction house.

Now, this mount was technically available before. Looked a little different but offered the same function. In a past expansion it was only purchasable for 5 million gold in game. This is an impossible amount for most players. Only people with auction house addictions get that much lmao. The catch here was that it was only available during that expansion (2018-2020) Blizzard still proffited because people can buy gold via tokens. But at least it wasn’t being sold for cash outright. Many people did buy it legitimately without buying tokens for gold. The main goal of this mount was to delete gold from the economy. As the people who hoard gold have an insane amount and completely control everything… just like irl. lol. Not only was owning the mount a flex it provides a nice convenience of not needing to travel all the way back to a city to sell your items.

So just sell the same mount but this time for irl money to double dip. Without the added benefit for all of reducing the amount of gold floating around. Even if you buy it via gold, someone else has to buy those tokens first. They actually ran out of tokens for a bit since more people were trying to buy them via gold than with irl money.

Now at the end of the day having an auction house on your mount isn’t REALLY op or anything. It only takes a few minutes at most to reach one in a city. But it’s just an awful thing to see that people continue to buy these stupidly priced “micro” transactions.

[morningstarlucemon]

Housing Update - SAFE

@everyone YO, Y'ALL ARE NOT GONNA BELIEVE THIS BULLSHIT. FINALLY, i get to make the update: we're safe, MORE than safe. Thanks to your help, and a loan from a friend, we've found a functionally PERMINANT solution. I've outright purchased a trailer, with a constant lot rent of $400 and water and trash included. We are now HOMEOWNERS. We are in the process of moving as we speak. Now, as for why i've been silent for the last two to three weeks:  I mentioned we had moved once. We were able to get out of our previous apartment which we could not afford and were being evicted from. We moved into a house which was being rented out to us. However, we've since discovered that this person was illegally subletting it. Since we have been here, she has sexually harassed our roommate, broken into the house while we were asleep (which we have a recording of), left us without heat, refused to move her belongings (she is a hoarder), forced us into doing free labor under threat of eviction, opened wrong address mail, and many other unsavory things. We have now gotten in contact with the actual property owners, and are pursuing legal action against her. I don't know how much i can say about that due to it now becoming a legal issue, and the fact that we will be taking her to court. So i don't know if or when i will be able to update you all on that situation. But if i can, i will. And i wanted to let you all know why i've been silent. Once we are fully moved into our trailer, and i've had a couple days to recover from... whatever the hell this all has been, i should be able to PROPERLY return to work. I want to make a consistent streaming schedule, chew through my backlog, and get back to working on Edenfall in earnest. And now that we no longer have to worry about homelessness for the foreseeable future, and the lot rent itself is affordable even with only me working, i'm... honestly incredibly excited to be able to get back to doing the things i love, to working. Thank you all so much, truly. Without you all, we may be homeless or dead. We would've had to split up, possibly lose our animals, all our things... You guys are incredible. Thank you so much. I can't believe all this. Six years since i left my mother, six years since i hopped in a rented compact with everything i cared about and fled Florida and abuse to be with chosen family, six years since i chose to life free instead of comfortably, and now things are finally looking to get stable. Thank you. Thank you so much. You all made this possible, and i'll be forever grateful. We may need a bit of continued help until Ren and Alice get stable jobs, and until i'm able to get through my backlog. We also will need to But, for the foreseeable future, we are safe, and we should STAY safe now. And, we may even be able to save up for something else in the future. If anyone still wants to help until we're fully settled, here are our links: Our GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/4da28a83 Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/shinigamiofexcellence/goal?g=33 PayPal: https://paypal.me/excellentshinigami?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US Amazon List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2CE66WB1CWVZ9?ref_=wl_share I can't wait to see what the future brings.

Posted using PostyBirb

[vythanis]

30 Days of Character Development: Housing

Where does your character live? Why did they choose it, and how did they acquire it?

Vy’thanis lives a transient and nomadic lifestyle, living out of various inns across Eorzea. He has recently purchased an apartment in Ul’dah however, and while he doesn’t spend much time there, he is excited to finally have his very own space. He chose the apartment because it was in a nice part of the Goblet and several stories up so he could have a good view of the city. His careful saving and investing of gil from his merchanting allowed him to buy the place outright instead of renting.

How do they handle intruders (graciously? violently?)?

No one has broken into his apartment or even his inn rooms, but unexpected intruders would likely be met with violent magic. He’s been subject to surprise attack before and he will not endure it again if he can help it.

Describe the space.

Vyth’s apartment is a four room suite with a kitchen, bathroom, sitting room, and bedroom. It’s very comfortable and perhaps a bit on the small side for all that it’s got four rooms (which are not really divided by definitive walls, allowing for more of an open floor plan). The walls are all the common warm stone seen throughout Ul’dah. His sitting room - which has two comfy cream-colored chairs, a mahogany table, and a well-stocked bookshelf - has a window that opens towards the city of Ul’dah, allowing for a lovely view from several stories high. His kitchen is almost so small as to be called cramped, and sees very little use as he does not really enjoy cooking; he can cook, he just doesn’t usually like to. The bathroom is small but very well-appointed with a deep soaking tub and the ubiquitous stone construction of Ul’dah. Cream and peach ceramic tiles cover the floor, while the deep tub is tiled in a refined striped pattern that complements the floor. His bedroom is somewhat elevated from the main level, cozy and filled with brightly colored fabrics and plush pillows; the bed is a canopy in common Ul’dahn style, shrouded by light curtains in bright sapphire blue. All in all, it’s a space designed for rest and relaxation, even if he’s not home enough to use it very often. (Limitations of in-game housing, naturally, make much of this subject to the visitor’s imagination.)

[calldres]

Also the fundamental lack of understanding on how computers work is astounding

Apple fans have been stuck using Apple that they forgot how any basic hardware works

1. Replaceable batteries does not mean fucking disposable batteries. You can put a battery in the phone like the one the iPhone already has in it, with housing that allows you to remove the back of the phone and put a new one in. Those already exist, are highly accessible, and the only thing that needs to be changed is to have the backplate removable by a user and the battery to have a slot for it instead of being hardwired in (which is only done to prevent repairability and is more costly to produce it that way then to use the battery the way it was already made, which is to be slotted in and out via battery contact)

2. Changing OS would never need to be implemented with a fucking toggle switch. You do that within the OS itself. Computers let you do this already. (Tho if they figure out how to implement a litteral OS toggle switch that would be baller as fuck and I would applaud the effort)

3. They wouldn't need a bullet proof screen protector if the iPhone screens weren't made with the Most Fragile Glass Known To Man. I have a Samsung s21 plus and i can spike this thing into the ground and it doesn't crack. Smart phone screens have been this good for a very long time. Catch up please.

4. EU doesn't ask for fuckjng USB A. They ask for a non-proprietary port. That means no lightning cable. The only other option isn't USB A. We've had USB B and Micro USB for over a decade. But those outdated cables aren't what the EU is expecting of Apple. They're expecting USB C.

You know, what everybody else on the planet has been making and wanting to use for a long time now. It's faster, can be plugged in either upright or upside down and work the same, and is highly available just about everywhere that sells electronics.

4. I'm pretty sure the joke of including a bunch of older ports like the AC power port, RCA, radio, a floppy drive and all that is cus they genuinely believe apple when they say headphone jacks and SD ports are outdated. They're not. They're the standard and the best of what we have at the time. Wireless connections are never as reliable, usable, or able to be maintained as an outright cable you plug directly into the device, and just about every device on the planet being produced today still uses SD cards because it's accessible and good. You can add 256 gigs to your phone with a bare minimum SD card right now if you wanted.

And yes that's the bare minimum. You could add a full terabyte

Want a phone that can have 1000 more gigs added to it on an impulse purchase? Do what the EU asks.

ok this looks ultra mega based, are you kidding me? can you imagine the bullshit i could get up to with this bad boy? fuck yes i want ten

[asherbrien]

Debunking Myths About Buying A House As A Cash Buyer

In the realm of real estate, cash buyers for homes often enjoy numerous advantages, yet misconceptions abound about what it means to purchase a home outright. These myths can deter potential buyers from embracing the cash-buying process. In this article, we’ll debunk some common myths about buying a house as a cash buyer, clarifying the realities and highlighting the benefits of this approach.

Myth 1: Cash Buyers Don’t Need to Conduct Inspections

One prevalent misconception is that cash buyers can skip inspections since they have the funds to make an outright purchase. In reality, regardless of payment method, thorough inspections are crucial. Cash buyers must conduct due diligence to uncover potential issues with the property that could lead to costly repairs down the line. Skipping inspections can be a risky move that might undermine the financial benefits of a cash purchase. The inspection process is a key step in ensuring that buyers make informed decisions about their investments.

Myth 2: Cash Offers Are Always Accepted

Another common belief is that cash offers are automatically accepted by sellers. While it’s true that cash buyers have a stronger negotiating position, various factors influence a seller's decision. Sellers consider the overall attractiveness of the offer, including price, contingencies, and closing timelines. In some cases, a financed offer with better terms may be more appealing than a lower cash offer. Cash buyers should still present competitive and appealing offers to increase their chances of acceptance.

Myth 3: Cash Buyers Have Unlimited Financial Resources

Many people assume that cash buyers have unlimited financial resources at their disposal. However, cash buyers typically use personal savings, investments, or the proceeds from a previous sale to fund their purchase. While these buyers may have access to a substantial amount of cash, they often have budgets and financial constraints like any other buyer. Cash buyers need to set a realistic budget and avoid overextending themselves in the pursuit of a home.

Myth 4: Buying a House in Cash Is Always Cheaper

While purchasing a home with cash eliminates the cost of interest on a mortgage, it doesn’t always mean it’s the cheapest option overall. Cash buyers can miss out on potential investment opportunities by tying up a large sum of money in a property. Instead, some buyers may benefit from leveraging a mortgage to invest in other ventures or maintain liquidity for emergencies. A strategic approach to financing can sometimes yield better long-term financial outcomes than an all-cash purchase.

Myth 5: Cash Buyers Don’t Face Competition

Another myth is that cash buyers face little to no competition in the real estate market. While cash buyers do have an advantage, they still encounter competition from other cash buyers and financed offers. In hot markets, multiple cash offers can arise on a single property, necessitating competitive bidding strategies. Cash buyers should be prepared to act quickly and present compelling offers to secure their desired homes.

Myth 6: Cash Buyers Can’t Access Incentives or Programs

Many assume that cash buyers cannot take advantage of various incentives, grants, or programs designed for homebuyers. While it’s true that some programs specifically target those using financing, cash buyers may still qualify for certain incentives, such as first-time homebuyer programs or property tax exemptions. Buyers need to research available options and understand the potential benefits they can access, regardless of their payment method.

Conclusion

Buying a house as a cash buyer is often portrayed as a straightforward process, but several myths can cloud the reality. By debunking these misconceptions, potential cash buyers can better understand the journey ahead and make informed decisions. From the importance of inspections to the realities of competition and financial strategy, it’s clear that the cash-buying experience is both unique and rewarding. Embracing the truths of cash purchases empowers buyers to navigate the real estate market confidently and successfully.

[vijaymadhukar]

Commercial Printer Rentals in Dubai: A Complete Guide for Business

Quality printing equipment has become the important tools for any enterprise, big or small, in the increasingly competitive business environment today. Acquiring and maintaining commercial printers are expensive issues for small and medium-sized enterprises. In this regard, commercial printer rentals in Dubai offer cost-effective and flexible solutions for printing solutions.

Why Choose Commercial Printer Rentals?

The commercial renting of a printer has advantages over the outright purchase of it. Business houses in Dubai, especially those experiencing a changing and competitive business market, find these benefits particularly useful in creating means for improving efficiency and cutting overhead cost.

1. Cost Savings

One of the most significant reasons companies opt for commercial printer rentals is to save a substantial amount of money. Purchasing a commercial-grade printer requires a substantial upfront investment apart from the routine commercial printer rentals in dubai maintenance, repair, and ink or toner needs. Companies avoid such huge capital expenditures when they use commercial printer rentals and are able to distribute their investments into other vital areas of business growth.

In addition, the renting services often involve pre-arranged maintenance and repair services thus take away the burden to the companies on the costs that are involved with managing them themselves.

2. Access to the Latest Technology

Technology in the printing industry is also developing constantly. What is up-to-date today will have obsoleted within a few years. Rental of commercial printers benefits business enterprises in Dubai with latest models and technology without tying them down in an extended investment. Thus, the business can always be sure of having the most efficient and reliable machines to ensure productivity and print quality.

3. Flexibility and Scalability

Changes in business needs normally happen, especially in a city like Dubai, because of the rapid growth and development of industries. Printer rental services help businesses scale up or down on their printing commercial printer rentals in dubai solutions as these needs change. You may just need additional printers for some period for a particular project or need to shift into an even better model; the rental providers can adapt according to such changes without great financial hurdles.

4. Maintenance and Support  

One of the most excellent advantages of leasing a printer is maintenance and technical support that usually happens with a rental agreement. Most printer rental companies in Dubai offer full support services, so any problem is solved immediately and efficiently. It minimizes downtime, and business operations will be resumed without interruption.

5. Environmental Sustainability

Companies that prefer to rent instead of buying are encouraging environmental sustainability. Printer rental services majorly refurbish and recycle machines, thus reducing the impact associated with the production of new equipment. Additionally, companies can use energy-efficient printer models to minimize their carbon footprint.

Types of Commercial Printers in Dubai Available for Rent

The rental market in Dubai is booming, and therefore there are many options available for commercial printers to service the multiplicity of needs in the business arena. Some of the best ones in this department include:

Multifunction Printers (MFPs): MFPs bring together printing, scanning, copying, and even faxing into one commercial printer rentals in dubai device, making it the best choice of all in one businesses.

Laser Printers: These are much faster and of good quality. They would be just right for large volume printing businesses.

Inkjet Printers: This is perfect for business users that require high resolution color prints, especially for marketing materials and design works.

Wide-Format Printers: These are used for creating large-format prints such as banners, posters, and architectural drawings. Often, firms, which design and construction companies use these kinds of printers.

How to Make the Best Choice

While choosing a commercial printer rental company in Dubai, there are a number of things you would look for:

Conclusion

Reputation: It is very important to identify a firm with a history of delivering quality equipment along with excellent customer service.

Rental Terms: The rental terms need to be flexible where in case your business plan may change you will easily vary the present one.

Service and Support:Ensure that, in case of maintenance or technical support, it will be given short notice.

Cost Transparency:Costs to be clearly maintained for all services, especially any hidden charges that may later pop in for instance by doing maintenance, repairing, or consumables.

Commercial printer rentals in Dubai would offer quite a few advantages, including cost savings, access to the latest technology, flexible rental terms, and ongoing maintenance support. In this way, whether you are a startup or an enterprise, the process of renting a printer can be a more practical means for everyone to enhance productivity while not carrying all that financial burden of purchasing equipment.

This means that by choosing the right provider of printing rentals as well as the right model of printers, your business will be provided with quality printing services tailored to their needs, and thus support it in succeeding in Dubai's competitive business landscape.

[somelazyassartist]

Considering making the move to just stop using Etsy altogether and just make my own website to sell things, but I'm not sure it's a very good idea with how small my shop is...... Vent under cut bc I'm just kinda stressed out about the general state of things in life rn but the shop thing is just stressing me out the most in this specific current moment.

So like, Etsy's really nice for organization and management, and you get a way larger audience because people can find you through searches, and they don't take fees away from you until you've made a sale which is all good for me as a small creator, but. I am sooooooo sick of the stupid content policies that ban a good chunk of my queer art as NSFW when it's not (and you know what? Maybe I wanna make outright NSFW art too!! I'm ace but drawing bodies and characters interacting like that and stuff is just fun for me!! I think it's neat and interesting to express artistically and also I think being horny is fine and cool!! But every fuckin place I could've made a living off that is banning it and my SFW queer stuff too and I'm just so sick of it).

I just want to finally make my own place where I can sell my normal art AND my horny fagdyke weirdo art, instead of "oh you can find my merch on this site but my art on this site and my writing on this site and my NSFW on this site blah blah blah" I'm SICK OF IT I just want one place I don't have to fucking redirect everybody to a million places because their content policies are all over the fucking place!!!!! The only thing is that I'm broke as shit because I'm disabled and this is my only way to work currently, and the place I was looking at making a website on (bc I know an artist I like a lot sells NSFW stuff through there) costs like $15 a month, which is a lot to me!!!

I'm trying to get a fuck ton of old inventory out of my house because I can't afford to get much new stuff for my shop without those funds, but my shop generally only gets traffic when I add new items to said shop, so when I get to that point where I can't afford to get new shit all my activity just plummets completely, and if I can barely keep up with purchasing new inventory how am I gonna purchase new inventory AND pay $15 a month just to run the damn site???? Plus I just have other things I need to spend money on like medical supplies and funds to help my gf move and my monthly credit card payments and it's just like!!! I am not that bad off currently and I am fine and I am not in debt and I can mostly handle it but it is stressful is all!!!!

I kinda wanna just like. Do a massive fucking "leaving Etsy" sale and slash all the prices down WAY lower than usual to try to get some of the old stuff out and save up money to put up my own new site with new merch and hopefully redirect traffic there afterwards, but also I know logically that's a horribly impulsive move to make and would probably land me in a worse spot than ever without the proper planning to do something like that. But oh my god it's tempting right now.

[omimedtech]

Everything You Need to Know about Equipment Rental Jacksonville

When it comes to undertaking a construction project, landscaping endeavor, or any significant DIY task, having the right tools and equipment is non-negotiable. However, purchasing such equipment outright can be a costly affair, often unjustifiable for one-time or infrequent use. This is where equipment rental Jacksonville services come into the picture, offering a practical and cost-effective solution. In Jacksonville, equipment rental services have flourished, providing an array of options for both professionals and amateurs alike. This guide delves into the essentials of Jacksonville equipment rental, helping you navigate your options and make informed decisions.

Understanding the Scope of Equipment Rental Jacksonville

Jacksonville equipment rental companies cater to a wide range of needs, from heavy construction machinery like excavators and backhoes to more specialized tools such as power washers and gardening equipment. These services are designed to meet the diverse requirements of various projects, ensuring you have access to the right tools at the right time.

Why Opt for Equipment Rental in Jacksonville?

1. Cost Efficiency: The primary advantage of choosing equipment rental Jacksonville is the significant cost savings. Instead of investing a large sum in purchasing equipment, you can rent it for a fraction of the price, especially for short-term projects.

2. Access to Modern Equipment: Rental companies regularly update their inventory with the latest models and technologies. This means you can access modern equipment that might be too expensive to buy.

3. Maintenance and Storage: Owning equipment comes with the added responsibilities of maintenance and storage. Rentals relieve you of these burdens, as the rental company takes care of servicing and housing the equipment.

4. Flexibility: Jacksonville equipment rental services offer flexibility in terms of rental duration, allowing you to rent equipment for as long as you need without the commitment of ownership.

How to Choose the Right Jacksonville Equipment Rental Service

Inventory Variety: Look for a rental service that offers a wide range of equipment, ensuring you can find all the tools you need under one roof.

2. Quality and Maintenance: Ensure the rental company maintains its equipment well and that the tools are in good working condition before renting.

3. Rental Terms and Conditions: Read the rental agreement carefully. Pay attention to the rental period, costs, late fees, and the process for reporting any issues with the equipment.

4. Customer Service: Choose a company known for its excellent customer service, offering guidance in selecting the right equipment and providing support in case of any problems.

5. Pricing: Compare prices from different equipment rental Jacksonville services to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. However, don’t compromise on quality and reliability for a lower price.

Maximizing the Benefits of Equipment Rental in Jacksonville

To make the most out of your equipment rental Jacksonville experience, planning is key. Assess your project needs thoroughly and make a list of all the equipment you’ll require. Consider the project timeline to determine the rental duration. It’s also wise to reserve your equipment in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid last-minute availability issues.

Conclusion

Jacksonville equipment rental services offer a practical solution for accessing high-quality equipment without the hefty price tag of ownership. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these services provide the tools you need to complete your projects efficiently and effectively. By choosing the right rental service and planning your equipment needs carefully, you can ensure your projects run smoothly, keeping within budget and timelines. 

Remember, the right equipment can make a significant difference in the quality and efficiency of your work, making equipment rental in Jacksonville an option worth considering for your next project.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of small equipment are available for rental in Jacksonville, FL at Omi Medtech?

Omi Medtech offers a diverse range of small equipment for rent, catering to various needs and projects.

Is used equipment available for rental in Jacksonville, FL through Omi Medtech?

Yes, Omi Medtech provides the option to rent high-quality used equipment, offering a cost-effective solution without compromising on reliability.

Do you have a Sunbelt Rentals branch in Jacksonville, FL under Omi Medtech?

Currently, Omi Medtech does not have a Sunbelt Rentals branch in Jacksonville, FL. However, we offer an extensive selection of rental equipment from our own inventory.

Is equipment rental available in Jacksonville, Texas through Omi Medtech?

Yes, Omi Medtech extends its equipment rental services to Jacksonville, Texas, ensuring convenience for a broader customer base.

Does Home Depot offer equipment rental in Jacksonville, FL under Omi Medtech?

No, Home Depot is a separate entity. However, Omi Medtech provides a reliable source for equipment rental services in Jacksonville, FL, offering a wide array of tools and machinery for various projects.

[sunsolarcompanyau]

What You Need to Know About Solar Installation

Solar Installation is the process of installing a home’s solar energy system. This typically involves mounting panels on a roof and running wiring to connect them to the grid.

The upfront investment is typically recouped in six to 30 years by electricity savings. It’s also possible to lease panels instead of purchasing them outright.

Solar Panels

Taking the sun’s energy and turning it into usable electricity is what Solar Installation panels do. They’re built on a frame and housed in a glass, metal or plastic casing. They’re semi-permanent and can be quite expensive to remove, so they’re often added into buildings at the design stage rather than being retrofitted later on.

Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells that are made from crystalline silicon with p-type or n-type semiconductors to create current. Narrow slits in the cells funnel sunlight to generate power, and all PV modules are tested under Standard Test Conditions (STC) before entering production to ensure that they meet their projected output and efficiency levels.

Domestic solar systems can be grid-tied to pull in electricity from the utility company when their production isn’t enough, or homeowners can go off-grid with a large enough system and battery bank. They can also be used to offset peak demand charges from the utility company during summer and winter periods.

Inverters

The inverter converts the direct current from your solar panels to the alternating current used by household appliances. It’s installed between the batteries and power controller. The battery bank stores electricity for use when the sun isn’t shining. Batteries are wired in series to essentially create one big battery.

The charge controller automatically sends electrical current to where it’s needed. The system monitors the solar panel output, battery levels and metering. The system can be sized for your household needs, for producing enough energy to sell back to the grid or anywhere in between.

It’s important to understand your household’s current and future power demands when shopping for a solar installation. The size of your system will determine how long it takes to break even on the initial investment, and also impact how much you save over time. Other factors, including your location and incentives, influence total costs. Be sure to comparison shop solar providers and review their customer reviews, certifications, Better Business Bureau profiles and other information available online.

Batteries

Batteries store the electricity collected by solar panels and provide instant backup power. They can be used in grid-tie solar systems or off-grid homes and businesses. Batteries are the most expensive part of a solar energy system and there are many different options to choose from.

The type of battery used depends on your specific energy needs. The most common are lead acid batteries, which are deep-cycle and inexpensive, but require regular maintenance. Other options are lithium, nickel cadmium and flow batteries.

Solar batteries use chemical reactions to store surplus solar energy as potential electricity. This energy can be accessed anytime, even during non-sunny periods. Battery capacity is another important consideration when choosing a solar battery. This is based on the amount of charge cycles the battery can go through before it loses its capacity. The depth of discharge is also an important factor to consider. Most manufacturers recommend a maximum discharge of 45%, as discharging deeper than this can shorten the lifespan of the battery.

Wiring

Electrical wiring is the lifeline of any Solar Installation Brisbane energy system, enabling its reliable operation. Properly sized wires reduce voltage drop and overheating, while effective wire management prevents mechanical stress and provides protection from the elements. Routine maintenance and inspections allow for identifying problems before they become serious, and abiding by electrical standards safeguards against safety risks.

When stringing solar panels in series, the positive terminals of each panel are connected to the negative terminal of the next. The addition of each new panel increases the current (amperage) of the string, but the voltage remains unchanged. This allows each panel to continue generating electricity if it becomes heavily shaded or damaged.

Wire types differ in conductor material and insulation, and selecting the appropriate one for a solar installation is crucial. Copper offers superior conductivity, while aluminum is an economical option. Stranded wires are also preferred, as they offer greater flexibility and durability. The correct wire type is determined by evaluating the wattage and voltage requirements of the system.

[rdpshop]

How do you get rid of a car that won't start: 6 ways you can do it

A non-starting car disposal can be a challenge, yet a necessary process requires careful consideration to get maximum benefits. When dealing with extensive repair costs or maximizing returns, you should understand the available options to get rid of. So, just how do you get rid of a car that won’t start? Just a few ideas: Contact local mechanics and repair shops to see if they're interested in buying it for parts. You can also contact the dealer for an assessment or explore selling individual components. If all else fails, consider selling it at an auction house. Here, we'll discuss the options available for getting rid of a car that won't start. So, let's say goodbye to your non-starting car by continuing to read.

How Do You Get Rid of a Car That Won't Start: Discover the 6 Ways

A car that won't start is an issue. It could be a mechanical or electrical failure that requires costly repairs or simply due to aging. However, you have several options to get rid of your car that won't start. - Contact local mechanics and repair shops - Get in touch with the dealer assessment - Explore selling individual components - Check Trade-In Options - Car Wrecker - Donate Your Vehicle To Charity 01. Contact Local Mechanics and Repair Shops To contact local mechanics and repair shops, call them and inquire if they'd like to buy your non-starting car for parts. Provide them with the repair estimates you obtained earlier to give them an idea of the potential costs of fixing the vehicle. When contacting the shops, be prepared to provide details about your car's make, model, and condition. Explain that you're looking to sell the vehicle without modifying it, and ask if they'd be willing to make an offer. Some shops may find value in salvaging components from your car, making it a potential win-win situation. 02. Get in touch with the Dealer Assessment

Contact new and used car dealerships in your area to get the dealer assessment for your non-starting car. Start by researching local dealerships and their contact information. You can find this information online or in phone directories. Reach out to each dealership and explain your situation. Schedule an appointment for them to assess your car. The dealership will examine your vehicle's value and potential for parts salvage during the assessment. Dealerships may be interested in specific parts of your vehicle, even if they can't resell it. Ask dealerships about salvageable components and potential value so you can decide accordingly. This assessment will help guide your next steps in removing your non-starting car. 03. Explore Selling Individual Components

Another option for getting rid of a non-starting car is to consider selling its components. This can be a lucrative choice, especially if you have an older or luxury model. Your first step should be to identify the valuable parts of your car. Look for components like the engine, transmission, and electronics, often in high demand. Next, look for online forums and listings that allow you to sell components directly. You may also be able to find a local buyer who is interested in the parts. Prepare to negotiate on price, as buyers often try to get a discount for buying individual pieces instead of an entire car. Be sure to accurately describe the condition of the parts and provide clear photos. Remember, this process may take time, but it can maximize the overall return on your investment. 04: Check Trade-In Options

You can trade in your old car for a newer model through a car dealership or an online service. This can be a great option if you want to upgrade but don’t have the cash to purchase the new vehicle outright. Before committing to this option, be sure to research what type of trade-in value your old car will fetch. It’s also important to factor in additional costs like taxes and fees that may come with the new vehicle purchase. Remember that you can't get a reasonable trade-in amount if no one is willing to buy it. You can always turn to selling it privately. 05. Car Wrecker

If you have explored selling individual components of your non-starting car, the next way is to consider a car wrecker. Locate a nearby auction house and inquire about a managed sale for your vehicle. Provide accurate details about the car, including its make, model, year, and any known issues. Adding a reserve price allows you to set a minimum selling price. The auction house will then proceed with the auction, marketing your car to potential buyers. Once your car is sold, you can collect the proceeds from the auction. The auction house handles all the paperwork and logistics for you. 06. Donate Your Vehicle To Charity

Getting rid of a car that won't start by donation has several rewards. One you may not even think of, is self-satisfaction. By removing an eye-sore from your property is removing a reminder of a failed project or just improving the looks of your property. You can look at it as a positive step to moving forward. There are also tax credits you can receive for donating vehicles and such. But the best part is that your donation goes towards great causes. There are many donations of vehicle programs that help kids, homeless people, veterans and so much more. Click here to learn more about Donating Your Car.

When it's not worth fixing a car that won't start?

Assess the overall condition of your vehicle. If your car is old and has a high mileage, it's more likely that additional problems will arise. Next, calculate the cost of repairs. If the repair costs are close to or exceed the value of your car, it's not financially wise to continue fixing it. Also, consider the safety aspect. If your car has significant mechanical issues that can compromise your safety, it's time to let go.

Is it possible to donate my non-starting car to a charity?

Donating your non-starting car to a charity is a viable option. While it may seem counterintuitive, many charities are willing to accept non-starting vehicles as donations. If the charity agrees to accept your non-starting car, they'll typically arrange for a towing service to pick it up from your location.

Can I sell a non-starting car with outstanding loans or liens?

If you have outstanding loans or liens on your non-starting car, you must contact your lender to discuss your options before selling it. Your lender will inform you of the amount you owe on the loan or lien. This will help you understand the financial implications of selling the car.

Get the Most Value from Your Non-Starting Car

As you can see, if you find yourself with a car that won't start and is not worth the cost of fixing, a few options are available. Each option comes with its own set of considerations, from selling valuable components to donating to a charitable cause. The key lies in understanding the circumstances surrounding the non-starting vehicle and choosing the method that aligns with practical and personal priorities. In regards to junk car removal companies or figuring out which parts are worth selling, research and planning are key to making the most out of any situation. Ultimately, there are ways to move on from your non-starting car and find a solution that suits your needs. Ryan David   Read the full article

[cardwellthaxton]

📢👀𝟓 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐨 𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐉𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐲🏡

By Cardwell Thaxton

Are you ready to start downsizing your home in New Jersey at The Cardwell Thaxton Group, we know all about it! Take a look at a few of our tips below and reach out to us if you would like an offer for your house as-is! We’re buying properties in the area and will purchase outright no matter what you want to leave behind! 

They say that what’s around you is a representation of your mental state. Many people find that downsizing helps them eliminate clutter, making it easier to focus on what’s important. Whether you just want to eliminate clutter, or you are looking to downsize your house in New Jersey for something smaller, there are some mistakes you will want to avoid. Keep reading to learn more about our tips for downsizing and what the team at The Cardwell Thaxton Group can do to help you!

Mistake 1 – Not Having a Plan

Before you start tearing your house apart, determine how you want to approach things. Are you going to go through one room at a time? Closets first? Kids toys? Or maybe you’ll group like things, deciding what to toss later. A good idea is to begin by creating piles. One can be stuff you want to throw away, another for stuff you want to donate, the next for things you aren’t sure about, and finally a pile for the things you know you want to keep. People organize themselves differently, however you decide to do it, make sure you have a plan, so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Mistake 2 – Throwing Away The Wrong Things

Once you start seeing things disappear, you may feel a sense of relief. It can be easy to get carried away, throwing away things you probably shouldn’t. Try to be mindful of your actions when throwing stuff in the trash. Is there a chance you or someone in your family will need it at a later date? If you are dealing with old paperwork, for example, you could opt to scan and save before throwing it in the trash. When in doubt, it’s better err on the side of caution instead of setting yourself up for regret down the road.

Mistake 3 – Not Throwing Away Enough

For many people, getting rid of things can be hard. Often times, the items can be tied to a particular person or memory and giving it up may feel impossible. When deciding what to get rid of, try to be methodical about it. For example, with clothing, if it something you haven’t worn in ages, donate it. It will get better use somewhere else than taking up room in your closet. While you don’t have to throw away everything you own, you don’t need to hold on to all of it either. Remind yourself that it is just stuff, and you will feel better once all of the unneeded clutter is gone.

To make it easier, if there are things, you’d like to keep but know you probably shouldn’t, you can take a picture so that the memory is never lost. This is great for kids’ projects, souvenirs, and other sentimental items that you can’t bear to part with, but you know are taking up too much space. Consider creating a digital photo album, so you can look back on your fond memories whenever you choose.

Mistake 4 – Not Doing It Sooner

Imagine what your life would be like with fewer items, a smaller house, and less to maintain. Once you simplify your life, you will wonder why you hadn’t done it sooner. You will have less stress, while saving both your time and money. If you have found yourself living in a house that no longer meets your need, that is too large, or that is packed with too much stuff, downsizing is the answer.

Mistake 5 – Trying To Do It Alone

If you are dealing with years with of accumulated possessions, the thought of downsizing can be overwhelming. If the process is too much for you, you can hire a professional organizer to help or at least get you started. If you wish to sell the house, working with a direct buyer such as The Cardwell Thaxton Group will enable you to sell your house as-is, no matter what you want to leave behind. This allows you to focus on keeping the things you really want without having to deal with all of the rest. We will buy your house even if it has a lot of stuff you’d rather not take.

Downsizing your home in New Jersey will offer you a number of great benefits. We are always prepared to answer all of your questions about the process while providing you with options to make it easier to downsize your house in New Jersey!

Are you thinking about downsizing your home in New Jersey? Find out how our team can help you! Reach out to us today to learn more about what we can offer! (908) 456-1593

The Cardwell Thaxton Group Cardwell Thaxton, New Jersey 📲(908) 456-1593 📧CardwellThaxton@gmail.com http://cardwellthaxton.realestate/

[vigilskeep]

i’m going to put together some assorted information from dao dialogue and then make my point afterwards

at least at one point, not so long before the blight, zevran was far more loyal to the crows than he tends to address outright. stumble into a fade dream of him being tested with torture, and he insists on staying on the rack. “i need to stay strong. this is my test. i am going to be a crow...” in life, he passed that test and many more in order to achieve his place. world of thedas tells us that out of the eighteen children purchased his year by house arainai, only two survived. prior to the incident with rinna, zevran describes himself: “i was cocky and arrogant. i was the best crow in antiva, i believed”. he was proud to do well as a crow, to be a crow who had passed the tests others had not. zevran was willing to watch the woman he loved die—he “readily agreed that she needed to pay the price”—and to spit on her as she bled out. and not because she’d betrayed him. “i spat on her for betraying the crows.”

zevran holds himself to certain standards, in his way. when leliana is uncertain about speaking of her work with pride, the first thing he says is that he hopes she killed her marks cleanly. “when the prey is caught, it deserves a good death, a clean death.” he has no shame about his skills as an assassin because he believes he came by them “honestly”. on the occasions that he raises a moral objection to the warden’s actions, he resents the suggestion that because he’s an assassin, he should be fine with it; he’s above some things. he insists that whatever else he is, he is not a cheat. there’s even a bit of dialogue if you refuse his offer to join the party and ask him to assassinate loghain instead, where he says the crows would kill him anyway, and thus “it wouldn’t be right, given the circumstances.” the warden can reply, “it wouldn’t be right? you’re an assassin!” and he will say “true, but even assassins must have standards. if you intend to kill me, i at least would have it be an honest death.” he needs high approval, just as much as alistair, to reveal the secrets of his order, claiming they might be, uh, somehow more mad at him than actively wanting him dead. sure. he continues to be extremely secretive about their inner workings in party banters with people like alistair and morrigan.

zevran was never oblivious to the realities of life as an assassin—“nothing about this work is glorious. quite the opposite”—or who they benefit—“prince azrin was fourth in line to the throne, you see. he started off as eleventh, but worked his way up the old-fashioned method, by inheriting control of an entire crow cell from his grandfather.” yet all this is to say that zevran on some level believed in his identity as antivan crow, that it meant something to be one, to have been among the few to make it. that it meant he was held to certain standards. after rinna died, zevran “wanted to tell the crows what we had done, our mistake”. she was dead and gone, but he wanted to risk punishment to save her honour as a crow, something he had believed both of them possessed. and to the crows, of course, it was nothing.

the reason i want to discuss all of this now is because i’m really curious about the direction they’re taking with the antivan crows for veilguard. in the thedas calls teaser trailer, an antivan voice says, “we fight for everyone, and we always will. the crows rule antiva.” in the as we fly short story from dragon age 2023, crows use the same phrase—“the crows rule antiva. [...] and treviso will be free”—as they defy qunari invaders, while antivans in the streets exclaim “they’re still out there!” “they’re fighting for us!” in the wigmaker job from tevinter nights, the crow illario dellamorte dismisses the idea that a slave will not report them to her master, saying “this isn’t antiva, cousin. we’re not heroes here.” lucanis, our soon-to-be crow companion, responds more cynically: “we’re not heroes anywhere.”

zevran refers to himself repeatedly as a patriot, and his fondness for antiva—and its leather boots—is real, as is his belief in the powerful role that the crows play in their politics. it’s certainly a powerful in-world myth that the crows are the sole reason no nation dares attack antiva. but how much of that is the truth, and how much is a story told to win over a desperate populace or young elves bought from brothels? for example, a learned scholar like brother genitivi or a keen political operator of antivan birth like josephine montilyet would tell you these are crow lies, and antiva’s place on the world stage was instead forged by the political alliances of asha subira bahadur campana, the queen mother of thedas. which is true? at this point, we can’t know. but as we see with zevran, what is taught to the crows is, regardless of truth, above all certainly a tactic to win recruits’ loyalty and their ambition. the recent short stories also imply it wins some level of affection and leniency from the antivan people, as if these brutal assassins were folk heroes.

with antiva surely threatened in veilguard and the crows appearing to rise to the challenge, i for one will be very interested in digging into the reality of the loyalty and pride in antiva trained into crow recruits. especially in our own party. lucanis, for example, may be cynical about the idea of crow heroism, but he says outright that, for whatever reason of his own, he has no desire to quit even were he to be given the opportunity to do so freely, despite his atypical morals, the horrors and dangers of their work, and a childhood of abuse under the guise of necessary training. (his vastly different status among the crows, as the first talon’s grandson, may give him an entirely unique perspective.) it’s certainly interesting to take into account for antivan crow rooks! especially if our new heroes meet zevran in his current state as the black shadow, causing chaos among the crows’ ranks. that was what i wanted to say

i’d like to do a deep dive into what zevran tells us—and maybe doesn’t tell us—about the crows. and chat about it in a big post. perhaps tomorrow