#land owner financing

[tx-land-us]

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[tx-land]

Lonestar Land Sales

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[landcentury]

5 Acres for Sale in Hartsel, CO

[owner-finance-home4you]

Owner Finance 3br, 2ba mobile home on own land-nice property to own$$$

[landlooney23]

Owner Financed Land in Colorado

Are you dreaming of owning a piece of owner financed land in Colorado? Look no further than Land Looney, your trusted partner in finding owner-financed land opportunities in the beautiful state of Colorado.

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[alwaysaffordableland]

Discover the best neighborhoods for land for sale in Dunnellon, FL. Learn the benefits of land investment and find out which areas offer the highest potential returns.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

AI is a WMD

I'm in TARTU, ESTONIA! AI, copyright and creative workers' labor rights (TOMORROW, May 10, 8AM: Science Fiction Research Association talk, Institute of Foreign Languages and Cultures building, Lossi 3, lobby). A talk for hackers on seizing the means of computation (TOMORROW, May 10, 3PM, University of Tartu Delta Centre, Narva 18, room 1037).

Fun fact: "The Tragedy Of the Commons" is a hoax created by the white nationalist Garrett Hardin to justify stealing land from colonized people and moving it from collective ownership, "rescuing" it from the inevitable tragedy by putting it in the hands of a private owner, who will care for it properly, thanks to "rational self-interest":

https://pluralistic.net/2023/05/04/analytical-democratic-theory/#epistocratic-delusions

Get that? If control over a key resource is diffused among the people who rely on it, then (Garrett claims) those people will all behave like selfish assholes, overusing and undermaintaining the commons. It's only when we let someone own that commons and charge rent for its use that (Hardin says) we will get sound management.

By that logic, Google should be the internet's most competent and reliable manager. After all, the company used its access to the capital markets to buy control over the internet, spending billions every year to make sure that you never try a search-engine other than its own, thus guaranteeing it a 90% market share:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/02/21/im-feeling-unlucky/#not-up-to-the-task

Google seems to think it's got the problem of deciding what we see on the internet licked. Otherwise, why would the company flush $80b down the toilet with a giant stock-buyback, and then do multiple waves of mass layoffs, from last year's 12,000 person bloodbath to this year's deep cuts to the company's "core teams"?

https://qz.com/google-is-laying-off-hundreds-as-it-moves-core-jobs-abr-1851449528

And yet, Google is overrun with scams and spam, which find their way to the very top of the first page of its search results:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/24/passive-income/#swiss-cheese-security

The entire internet is shaped by Google's decisions about what shows up on that first page of listings. When Google decided to prioritize shopping site results over informative discussions and other possible matches, the entire internet shifted its focus to producing affiliate-link-strewn "reviews" that would show up on Google's front door:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/24/naming-names/#prabhakar-raghavan

This was catnip to the kind of sociopath who a) owns a hedge-fund and b) hates journalists for being pain-in-the-ass, stick-in-the-mud sticklers for "truth" and "facts" and other impediments to the care and maintenance of a functional reality-distortion field. These dickheads started buying up beloved news sites and converting them to spam-farms, filled with garbage "reviews" and other Google-pleasing, affiliate-fee-generating nonsense.

(These news-sites were vulnerable to acquisition in large part thanks to Google, whose dominance of ad-tech lets it cream 51 cents off every ad dollar and whose mobile OS monopoly lets it steal 30 cents off every in-app subscriber dollar):

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2023/04/saving-news-big-tech

Now, the spam on these sites didn't write itself. Much to the chagrin of the tech/finance bros who bought up Sports Illustrated and other venerable news sites, they still needed to pay actual human writers to produce plausible word-salads. This was a waste of money that could be better spent on reverse-engineering Google's ranking algorithm and getting pride-of-place on search results pages:

https://housefresh.com/david-vs-digital-goliaths/

That's where AI comes in. Spicy autocomplete absolutely can't replace journalists. The planet-destroying, next-word-guessing programs from Openai and its competitors are incorrigible liars that require so much "supervision" that they cost more than they save in a newsroom:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/29/what-part-of-no/#dont-you-understand

But while a chatbot can't produce truthful and informative articles, it can produce bullshit – at unimaginable scale. Chatbots are the workers that hedge-fund wreckers dream of: tireless, uncomplaining, compliant and obedient producers of nonsense on demand.

That's why the capital class is so insatiably horny for chatbots. Chatbots aren't going to write Hollywood movies, but studio bosses hyperventilated at the prospect of a "writer" that would accept your brilliant idea and diligently turned it into a movie. You prompt an LLM in exactly the same way a studio exec gives writers notes. The difference is that the LLM won't roll its eyes and make sarcastic remarks about your brainwaves like "ET, but starring a dog, with a love plot in the second act and a big car-chase at the end":

https://pluralistic.net/2023/10/01/how-the-writers-guild-sunk-ais-ship/

Similarly, chatbots are a dream come true for a hedge fundie who ends up running a beloved news site, only to have to fight with their own writers to get the profitable nonsense produced at a scale and velocity that will guarantee a high Google ranking and millions in "passive income" from affiliate links.

One of the premier profitable nonsense companies is Advon, which helped usher in an era in which sites from Forbes to Money to USA Today create semi-secret "review" sites that are stuffed full of badly researched top-ten lists for products from air purifiers to cat beds:

https://housefresh.com/how-google-decimated-housefresh/

Advon swears that it only uses living humans to produce nonsense, and not AI. This isn't just wildly implausible, it's also belied by easily uncovered evidence, like its own employees' Linkedin profiles, which boast of using AI to create "content":

https://housefresh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Advon-AI-LinkedIn.jpg

It's not true. Advon uses AI to produce its nonsense, at scale. In an excellent, deeply reported piece for Futurism, Maggie Harrison Dupré brings proof that Advon replaced its miserable human nonsense-writers with tireless chatbots:

https://futurism.com/advon-ai-content

Dupré describes how Advon's ability to create botshit at scale contributed to the enshittification of clients from Yoga Journal to the LA Times, "Us Weekly" to the Miami Herald.

All of this is very timely, because this is the week that Google finally bestirred itself to commence downranking publishers who engage in "site reputation abuse" – creating these SEO-stuffed fake reviews with the help of third parties like Advon:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/05/03/keyword-swarming/#site-reputation-abuse

(Google's policy only forbids site reputation abuse with the help of third parties; if these publishers take their nonsense production in-house, Google may allow them to continue to dominate its search listings):

https://developers.google.com/search/blog/2024/03/core-update-spam-policies#site-reputation

There's a reason so many people believed Hardin's racist "Tragedy of the Commons" hoax. We have an intuitive understanding that commons are fragile. All it takes is one monster to start shitting in the well where the rest of us get our drinking water and we're all poisoned.

The financial markets love these monsters. Mark Zuckerberg's key insight was that he could make billions by assembling vast dossiers of compromising, sensitive personal information on half the world's population without their consent, but only if he kept his costs down by failing to safeguard that data and the systems for exploiting it. He's like a guy who figures out that if he accumulates enough oily rags, he can extract so much low-grade oil from them that he can grow rich, but only if he doesn't waste money on fire-suppression:

https://locusmag.com/2018/07/cory-doctorow-zucks-empire-of-oily-rags/

Now Zuckerberg and the wealthy, powerful monsters who seized control over our commons are getting a comeuppance. The weak countermeasures they created to maintain the minimum levels of quality to keep their platforms as viable, going concerns are being overwhelmed by AI. This was a totally foreseeable outcome: the history of the internet is a story of bad actors who upended the assumptions built into our security systems by automating their attacks, transforming an assault that wouldn't be economically viable into a global, high-speed crime wave:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/04/24/automation-is-magic/

But it is possible for a community to maintain a commons. This is something Hardin could have discovered by studying actual commons, instead of inventing imaginary histories in which commons turned tragic. As it happens, someone else did exactly that: Nobel Laureate Elinor Ostrom:

https://www.onthecommons.org/magazine/elinor-ostroms-8-principles-managing-commmons/

Ostrom described how commons can be wisely managed, over very long timescales, by communities that self-governed. Part of her work concerns how users of a commons must have the ability to exclude bad actors from their shared resources.

When that breaks down, commons can fail – because there's always someone who thinks it's fine to shit in the well rather than walk 100 yards to the outhouse.

Enshittification is the process by which control over the internet moved from self-governance by members of the commons to acts of wanton destruction committed by despicable, greedy assholes who shit in the well over and over again.

It's not just the spammers who take advantage of Google's lazy incompetence, either. Take "copyleft trolls," who post images using outdated Creative Commons licenses that allow them to terminate the CC license if a user makes minor errors in attributing the images they use:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/01/24/a-bug-in-early-creative-commons-licenses-has-enabled-a-new-breed-of-superpredator/

The first copyleft trolls were individuals, but these days, the racket is dominated by a company called Pixsy, which pretends to be a "rights protection" agency that helps photographers track down copyright infringers. In reality, the company is committed to helping copyleft trolls entrap innocent Creative Commons users into paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars to use images that are licensed for free use. Just as Advon upends the economics of spam and deception through automation, Pixsy has figured out how to send legal threats at scale, robolawyering demand letters that aren't signed by lawyers; the company refuses to say whether any lawyer ever reviews these threats:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/02/13/an-open-letter-to-pixsy-ceo-kain-jones-who-keeps-sending-me-legal-threats/

This is shitting in the well, at scale. It's an online WMD, designed to wipe out the commons. Creative Commons has allowed millions of creators to produce a commons with billions of works in it, and Pixsy exploits a minor error in the early versions of CC licenses to indiscriminately manufacture legal land-mines, wantonly blowing off innocent commons-users' legs and laughing all the way to the bank:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/02/commafuckers-versus-the-commons/

We can have an online commons, but only if it's run by and for its users. Google has shown us that any "benevolent dictator" who amasses power in the name of defending the open internet will eventually grow too big to care, and will allow our commons to be demolished by well-shitters:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/04/teach-me-how-to-shruggie/#kagi

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/05/09/shitting-in-the-well/#advon

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

--

Catherine Poh Huay Tan (modified) https://www.flickr.com/photos/68166820@N08/49729911222/

Laia Balagueró (modified) https://www.flickr.com/photos/lbalaguero/6551235503/

CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

[brynn-lear]

A Tasteless Cup [Yandere!Joker/Reader]

Prompt: After the destruction of your previous reality, you and Akira Kurusu landed in Teyvat. In an effort to stay afloat, Akira had set up a book café in Mondstadt alongside you. However, is this the true flavor of "Freedom"? [Dedicated to: Riley H. Goodheart, for the Alone Together event]

CW: yandere themes, dubious food, manipulation/controlling behavior, toxic relationship dynamic. P.S: Akira is aged up [20s] in this fic, happens after Persona 5.

To Akira, those he lets into his heart will become an intrinsic part of him. They are more than a trick of a card, more than a mask to mimic and steal for his own, more than a numbers game. Every bit of them is his soul. His relationships are the culmination of his being and, eventually, his raison d'etre. 

And Akira Kurusu had a hard time coping with losing these links. 

To others, relationships are no different from chains. The surrounding people are less a home and more like bars to a cage— a prison. And despite being somewhat of a Mr/Ms. Congeniality, you aren't as affected by the fact that neither of you can return to your respective world.

You are both empty. You have been handed a clean slate, an empty card, and an empty vision.

You are both "fools" again.      

"Bit too early in the morning to start a serious discussion…" Akira tiredly muttered, removing his glasses before rubbing his eyes.

But as long as the sun rises once more, does a rebirth truly matter?

Anyone would be remiss to disregard the sheer jadedness in his eyes and the slight breathlessness of his speech. Akira poured himself a cup. Normally served to others rather than his indulgence, you quietly noticed that his cup lacked sugar. The cafe owner drank and embraced its bitterness, unflinching. 

It's been three months since you both arrived in the world of Teyvat. Getting by as an Outlander proved difficult, and thankfully, Akira is kind towards you and a jack-of-all-trades. One might say he has "maxed out his stats." Charismatic, skilled, and bold, he has the makings for an entrepreneur with a pyro vision to boot. Unsurprisingly, he had become one of old Mond's eligible bachelors in a short time frame. 

So, by just the third week, he managed to persuade Master Ragnvindr with a solid pitch. The cafe you both sit in is a testament to your shared hard work. With his brew proficiency and your hobby of accumulating knowledge through books and art pieces, the cozy place had become a second home for individuals such as the local librarian and the Guild's investigator. 

But you'll always remember his words the night before he was invited into Duke Ragnvindr's study room.

"Akira, are you sure about this?" You muttered, tugging his sleeve. "Once you finalize it, you can't just..."

"Hmm? Why are you hesitating?" He tilted his chin up slightly, confused. "It's a good way to keep our finances afloat, right? Don't you want to keep collecting books and art supplies? I thought you said you wanted to have a small library someday."

"But, for you to work this much for it-"

"You matter to me. You are the only thing left binding me down here in Teyvat." He casually shot you down, but his light tone could not erase the heaviness of his words. "Besides..."

"Don't you like it when I make a hot cup and fresh pastries just for you?" 

That dream materialized into something called Cafe LeBlanc. Though he claims the name wasn't his but a charming, cranky old man's— you doubt anyone else can come up with that. But he sounded genuine enough. His unexplainable "silent" face can sometimes make him a hard read.

… This isn't one of those times. You know what's troubling him quite well. 

"Yeah…" you muttered. "Can't we save this conversation for the end of the day instead?"

Akira laughed. 

"Smart," he hummed humorlessly. 

"You know I get too tired to do anything at night except washing dishes and doing crosswords. It's not happening. We'll have this talk now."

Fair enough. Avoiding one's problems is a mindset you never advocated. You'd be a terrible hypocrite if you start now. "Alright, I'll hear you out."

You shifted from your seat, dragging it closer to the counter. Akira downed his cup on the other side, revealing no liquid gold in its bottom. His eyes were wide awake thanks to the caffeine, yet you couldn't even glance upward. 

"(Y/n), do you remember how I got this pyro vision?"

You blinked, unsure how he'd make the fact relevant. Still, you nodded.

A long time ago, you liked how open Akira was about himself. You can tell he had immense trust issues he had worked on fixing. Akira is a good man. Being wrongfully expelled and imprisoned at a young age must've done damages you can't quite comprehend fully. Sometimes, you wish you had the courage to be just as vulnerable, too.

He traced the outline of a pyro symbol on the table with his slender finger collecting not a single dust nor stain. Despite the warmth his vision may hold, it did not detract from the cold atmosphere you both had to face. With the angle you were viewing him, you can't help but notice his eyelashes. They're prettier than yours, you thought. If only his glare wasn't so pointed.

"When I arrived in this world, I was alone and confused. But you? You weren't. I saw your face— the face of someone who had nothing to lose to begin with."

Akira's gaze softened. He was right. You adapted to this new world so suspiciously well. 

"I couldn't tell whether you saw our situation as a positive or whether you thought this whole transfer to another reality was a cruel joke. But I had a feeling you were as horrified as I was. That you couldn't bear the thought of living alone. I think that you also had friends you cared for, but now, you will never be able to hear their voices again."

He breathed in shakily, his eyes heavy. Akira may seem like a silent person, no different from Duke Ragnvindr, but the time you spent together backs up what your instincts are testifying right this second.

There's one true thought in his mind.

After all his efforts.

After all that he has gone through so that you'll stay by his side.

What was it all for?

"So, when a Lawachurl wounded you in Windrise, I stepped in. I can't help but project myself onto you. I thought about how you must also have friends waiting– family waiting– whether it's a cat or a sister— I knew I just had to. I had to risk everything, even if you were just a stranger to me then." He clenched his fists. "And you were worth it. You were absolutely worth every risk. You were worth everything. I knew I had to survive, if not for myself, but to help you."

"Even without some sort of— card– or whatever— to indicate it, I knew our relationship was progressing. That our understanding of each other has reached such high ranks. I know we had become each other's most trusted confidant, so why? Listen, I value freedom too, but—"

He slammed his cup down— you jolted as you heard it chip slightly. It wasn't his intent to scare. Akira would never wish to frighten you. But he can't stop his emotions and movements from being brash and pointed. 

"... Why did you want to quit working with me?"

There it goes.

"Is it because I haven't spent much time with you lately? You know I've been busy with trying to invest in a better flat—"

The pace of his breathing was starting to quicken.

"Kurusu, it's not that…" You need to rationalize this with him. Fast.

"I-Is it because work has been too much? I told you we could hire someone if you feel too faint for the job. I care about your health— hell— maybe even more than you do—"

"Akira, listen to me—"

His futile attempt to maintain control was like an age-weakened thread. The fibers of his composure whittled away string by string, itching to snap entirely. Akira's jaw clenched. 

The manacle may not be anchoring his feet down as it did in the Velvet Room, but there's no denying that doubt is tugging and clawing at his neck. He knew that if he should continue, only strained words would come from his coffee-bitter lips. 

He rubbed his head against his shoulder. He had to have been wiping a tear away, trying to make it unnoticeable but failing.

"But why are you LEAVING m—"

"Behold, for this fine hour, you are not only graced with the presence of soft rays— you are also blessed by myself: Fischl, the Prinzessin der Verurteilung!"

"Mein Fräulein meant to say good morning to you both, Arsene and Sholmes."

... Akira chuckled a short and strained sound that could easily be missed by a weak ear.

As though a switch had been flipped, Akira's contorted expression turned back to his customer service smile. You trembled slightly. Perhaps it's a skill he mastered during his part-time worker years in high school, but he seemed a little too good at hiding such overwhelming frustrations— almost shape-shifting.

It's… 

Eerie.

He's smiling. It's his usual smile he has that has a calm allure and a hint of cockiness.

As if nothing happened five seconds ago.

"Ah, greetings, Your Highness!"

The guests were none other than some of the regulars, Amy and her bird familiar. This blonde, eye-patched girl is the only person in Little Mond who consistently makes Akira act dramatic. 

He bowed, not missing a beat of young Amy's theatrics. After spending so many years chatting with Yusuke, he's gotten used to bouncing back conversations of this nature. Akira enjoys the young investigator's company. He saw tiny bits of his friend in her.

"What shall we, humble servants, offer you this dawn? Will it be your usual order, or does our dear royal have something else in mind entirely? We will do our best to provide you with maximum entertainment! After all, this is your castle, Mein Fräulein."

You stiffened.

We.

He's not letting you go just yet. You caught a glimpse of his dark pupils, slightly moving to meet yours. Imploring you without words to act out of his best interest.

Akira Kurusu has always been a witty man, but there is no way there's no anger beneath that mask.

"Are you alright, Sholmes?" Oz asked.

For whatever reason, Akira persuaded Amy to call you both Arsene Lupin and Herlock Sholmes. The former was likely a nod to his first persona's name. His explanation for the latter was something along the lines of "you strike me as the type who always wants to search for your truth."

You blinked.

Right. You're his version of Sherlock Holmes.

Ha.

Even here, he gets to dictate everything about you.

"... Yes, Your Highness, to what do I owe the pleasure?" you said. The blonde girl smiled and tilted her head up pompously. 

"What other brew could I possibly order but the darkest taste that leaves any normal mortal to shrivel in imagination?" Amy shrugged, her eyebrow raised as though everyone knew what she babbled on with commendable sass. Her aviator companion thankfully cleared the air— albeit a little too blunt.

"Mein Fräulein desires a cinnamon ginger affogato with more sugar than last time, please. Two spoons for the poor Mein Fräulein."

"O-Oz!?!"

It's easily one of the least bitter cups on the menu. It consists of vanilla gelato, a tablespoon of espresso powder, cinnamon sticks, hazelnut liqueur, and bits of dried sunsettia. I can't say what would make anyone fear such a thing except for those with complications. Someone else shared the same sentiment.

You and Akira laughed in unison.

Your eyes widened in astonishment. That was in sync. You immediately looked away as Akira busied himself with Amy's order. It was awkward knowing that even with your efforts to cut things off, there was still some vague commonality between you two.

"... Say, your Highness?" Akira smiled softly. "Would it be alright for me to probe some of your most revered royal musings?"

...

...

... What is his play this time?

"You have my ears, dear subject."

"Suppose there is a princess who is facing an uphill battle. Furthermore, her valiant knight aspires to rescue her. However, the princess, for unknown reasons, declines his assistance. Is that..." He shut his eyes, laughing that strained chuckle once more. "... equittable?"

"Oh, most grievous indeed! A knight, who is obligated by the code of chivalry, shall always respond to the plea of his princess when she is in peril. His solemn obligation is to protect her honor and safeguard her from any danger!"

Akira looked at you.

His eyes were cold.

"But what if the princess doesn't want to be saved? What if she believes she can handle the situation herself, or maybe she thinks having assistance would make her weak?"

"Ah, but thou dost speak in riddles!" Amy scoffed, unamused. "A princess may exhibit abundant power and courage, yet it is the responsibility of her faithful knight to guarantee her safety, especially when she questions her own necessity. For what good is a knight's valor if not to serve and protect his liege?"

"Would you say her actions essentially strip him of his purpose?"

"Why, of course!" Amy replied with full conviction. "One would not require Oz if he lacks such a necessary trait! It is the basis of our trust– our relationship! A true knight's honor lies not in the glory of battle, but in his unwavering commitment to his princess, even in the face of her refusal."

You sucked in a deep breath.

Akira, you—!

"Speak frankly. Do these inquiries pertain to me?" Amy glared at him. Akira shook his head immediately, umping up his flamboyant voice inflections.

No.

It's about you.

It's always about you when it comes to him.

"Of course not!" Akira feigned worry. "It was for a novel I'm writing— to honor one's love."

… To honor one's "love".

Love? You froze. He calls this relationship love? It hadn't been that for the past few months! Love is meant to be like coming home to a comforting home— not a cold palace with your unfeeling statue at the heart of it all.  

You were hoping that your life would be dictated by what you want it to mean this time around. You hope to create your own purpose, your own identity. You hope to reject his titles—being his partner and his "Sholmes." 

But mostly, you sincerely hoped his words were untrue and did not allude to something as sinister and self-destructive as his love.

Besides, you already have a lover waiting for you to leave this mess behind.

You and he already have everything planned out. A rented flat, food, work— everything is set. The only box to tick off was leaving itself, and then you'll be in your lover's arms.

But you swore.

You swore you just saw him smirk.

"(Y/n), could you please lend me a hand? Can you pass the cinnamon sticks from the cupboard?"

Starting your day by serving Amy leads to serving a hundred more. You can't just stand up and leave whenever someone asks for your service. It's impossible to make the shortest comment about how you no longer work for LeBlanc, even more so when people beg for book recommendations. Being friendly is part of who you are. It can't be helped.

What made matters worse was that people were ordering seconds. Apparently, Akira must've adjusted all the recipes on the menu because whatever was added to those cups made it all the more divine. You knew his skills were perfection, but to think he could even exceed that...

In the end, despite multiple delays, Akira still got you right where he wanted you.

"Thank you. Please come again!" He escorted the final customer outside and flipped the closing sign himself.

Now, it was just the two of you left.

"... You must be tired." You offered, hoping he wouldn't catch on. "It's been a long day, why don't you take a rest—"

"Nice try." 

Well, it was worth a shot.

You stiffly waited for him to say something. Anything. But instead, he took a kettle off the icebox and heated the stove with his vision. 

"Back to my story, do you remember where we left off?"

The wisest thing to have down was biting your tongue or pretending not to know what he was talking about. Unfortunately, your answer was immediate.

"Something about how you got your vision?"

"Ah, yes, that." Akira laughed. "Say, I told you about how I used to be the leader of the Phantom Thieves when I was in High School, right?"

While waiting, Akira tapped his fingers against the table but stopped when he realized you were becoming distracted. Snapping out of it, you cleared your throat.

"You were stealing hearts in the Metaverse, yes, I recall..." You mumbled. Due to the sudden need to speak, you ended up unwittingly playing by his script again. "You manifested a Persona and used that to reform the heart of rotten adults."

You flinched slightly when his tea was starting to release thin smokes. It smelled too much like rust. Maybe he exhausted it too much today. The customers you had were double the amount. You had to commend his willpower for still managing exceed his usual sleep schedule.

"Isn't the kettle burning?"

"Trust me, it's not," he answered nonchalantly. "I remember when I told my story to you, you were mostly understanding of our actions. You didn't judge us. Rather, you told me that humanity is selfish and destructive."

"But back to how I got my vision," he finally turned the stove off. "I genuinely thought my most distinct trait was my appreciation for Freedom."

"Yet you got a pyro vision." You joked lightly.

He didn't laugh. Instead, he nodded.

"Strange, isn't it?" Akira tilted his head to look at you for a bit, before back at the hot cup he was pouring. It's the same liquid he's been adding the entire day. This must be the last of those ten pints. "Here, try it."

You slowly took it. It's still a bit too warm, so you continued talking.

"I thought about it, too. If we go by theories, it will make more sense if Barbatos blessed me instead. But with you here..." Akira laughed. "Pyro is definitely my element. I'm seeing a pattern with vision-wielders like me. Based on what I've seen so far, pyro users are often the most passionate. And passion can put a leash on freedom when need be."

You took a sip.

He put an elbow on the table and propped his chin on his palm.

"How is it?"

"It's... tasteless?" You blinked. 

You thought he must've added something grand to the cups today. Was it all just one big placebo effect?

"Makes it no different than regular water, huh?"

"Well, yeah, I guess?"

"I've actually been disposing of this the entire day, that's why the coffees looked darker. Diluting the original sample is hard work but worth it. Enough as a substitute for normal water in case we run out. Who knew you could empty 10 pints so quickly in a day..." 

"You. In case you run out." You sighed, finally addressing it. "Akira, I'm no longer your partner."

"So is he."

You both paused.

He returned the kettle to the ice box before unmasking its contents.

"You were near-fatally wounded once before. You tasted it in your mouth when I defended you from that Lawachurl-

"You should know by now that blood isn't supposed to be tasteless."

Riley H. Goodheart can now message Akira Kurusu

[luvely-stories]

7:3 Cafe

+.｡ﾟ:;｡+ﾟ+｡::ﾟ｡:.ﾟ｡+｡+.｡ﾟ:;｡+ﾟ+｡::ﾟ｡:.ﾟ｡+ +.｡ﾟ:;｡

You’re a down on your luck office worker trying to find a quick place to eat, that is till you see a familiar face in a cafe window.

This was inspired by a beautiful art piece by the lovely @riritzuu

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You sighed as you rubbed your eyes, the blue light from the screen in front of you burning them from staring for too long. You were so close to finishing this project but you were too damn tired to even think of continuing.

You accidentally skipped breakfast and now you needed something to eat and fast, your head starting to fee light from lack of nutrients. You decided that you worked hard enough and that it was time for a well earned break.

Heels clicking against the city sidewalks, your eyes look over all the eateries nearby and sigh. They were filled to the brim with some people even standing outside. As you keep walking around to your usual places you found the same sight, lines flowing out and it was starting to piss you off.

All you wanted was to get ride of this headache that was starting to be unbearable in a reasonable time. You started to massage your head as you kept looking around. Just as you felt like all hope was lost, two people walked right in front of you, loudly and cheerfully speaking.

“Wasn’t that just the cutest little cafe?”

“I know right?! I kinda wanna be a gatekeeper it but you know, they deserve the business.”

In any other situation you’d be annoyed by how loud they were but you were too busy wondering about the cafe they were just talking about. Turning around to where they came from you sprinted off, praying that the cafe wasn’t too packed.

Looking around you realized that this cafe was off the beaten path which just made you all the more hopeful. You turn a corner and see an opening on a building and thanked whatever was in the sky above that the place seemed fairly empty minus a few kids running around.

The cafe was cute, a sign flying above it that showed little graphics of bread and coffee. Next to them was the cafes name, 7:3 Cafe. Odd name but who cares? Out front they had a chalkboard listing all their breads and special drink of the day with the cutest little doodles of what you were guessing were the kids and the owner.

The window of the cafe showed a display with the cutest pastries you’d ever seen and the smell coming from them was divine. There were the cutest little bears made of bread smiling at you throughs the glass next to cupcakes with white frosting. As you stared at the food a man came in and placed fresh baguettes next to the cupcakes. Trailing your eyes on the baguettes they unintentionally run up the mans hands, you always did have a staring problem. Eventually your gaze landed on his face.

You stare at him for a moment curious till you realize, you knew this man?!

“Nanami?!”

You shout, causing the mans head to shoot up. Looking into his deep eyes you immediately knew this was Nanami though he looked…so much more relaxed.

Back when you two worked together in the finance department Nanami had this air of professionalism to him that had other people always coming to him for everything, yourself included. His hair was always perfectly parted with suits that never wrinkled and always made sure that everything was done on time. He was a model office worker, emphasis on model.

He always kept small talk to a minimum with everyone and you’re not sure he had any friends in his job. Though youd like to imagine you were on friendly terms but maybe that was just your delusions talking.

It’d be a surprise to no one if you admitted your crush on Nanami but could anyone blame you? He was as diligent and smart and even if he had eye bags as dark as could be he always did his part in projects to perfection. You were convinced he was gods favorite because he always looked so handsome no matter what he did.

But nothing compared to how he is now. His perfect blonde hair was still parted but it now flowed freely, almost grazing the glasses he now wore. He wasn’t wearing the perfectly taken care of suits but instead well loved clothes covered by an apron. And oh his face, now so full and well rested, had your heart about to burst. A complete contrast to how your heart was when you heard about him quitting.

When you heard the news your heart shattered. It was just after you felt like you two were starting to become friends. Some months beforehand it was just you and Nanami in the early morning office, both of you working to finish separate projects. As you worked diligently, the faint smell of fresh bread filled your nose. Raising you head from the computer you look over at Nanami.

“Do you smell the bread too or am I going crazy?”

Nanami glanced up from his file before smelling the air curiously, before smelling his own blazer. Realization dawned on him as he went back to work.

“That’s me, I apologize.”

“You brought some?”

“No, I bake.” He explain calmly, still deep in his work.

Well now you were curious. Pausing your work, you swirl your chair to face Nanami.

“I didn’t know you were a baker!” You say, a smile creeping on your face.

“Oh I wouldn’t consider myself a baker, it’s more so just a hobby.” Nanami shrugs as he starts to organize his files.

“I dunno, by the smell of that I think you make some pretty great treats.” You shrug before twirling back and turning your attention back to your computer. You couldn’t help but mentally high five yourself for talking to him, although it was brief

The sound of papers shuffling stopped, intriguing you for a moment before ignoring it.

“I could bring you some if you were really curious.”

Now that you couldn’t ignore. You turn in your chair back to Nanami and your heart skipped a beat. He was looking right into your soul with those gorgeous eyes of him and you immediately felt your face heat up.

“I mean sure- if it isn’t too much of a problem!”You sputter out, still shocked about the offer.

Nanami hums contently before going back to work while you tried to calm down your racing heart.

You believed him even less when he said he wasn’t a baker when you tried his bread. It was delicious, putting other bakers to shame and you made sure to tell him that. That was the start of a small friendship you had where he would bring you treats and you would rave about them, recommending new recipes to try or talking about a new pastry that you tried.

You learned that he was a foodie and knew all of the best places in town for anything and everything and you really felt like you two were starting to connect. Safe to say you were crushed when you heard he was leaving.

Which is why you were thanking your lucky stars that he was standing right in front of you. He recognized you instantly, calling out your name with a soft smile.

“I never thought I’d see you again, what brings you here?”

As if on que your stomach let out an obnoxiously loud grumble, god you could just die. Though Nanami didn’t mind as he let out a soft chuckle, god this man would be the death of you.

“Well I just heard some people talking about cute cafe and I had to check it out!” Now you wondered if the ladies meant the cafe was cute or the cafe worker.

“Well what are you out there for? Come on in.” He smiles softly at you as you quickly follow his order.

Inside the cafe really was cute, it was small but it was so cozy. Charm filled the place with every hanging plant and hung picture. You walk up to the front, glancing over at the menu. Out of the corner of your eye you saw Nanami going behind the counter and you had to fight the urge to just stare at him.

“So what would you like?” He asked staring at you like you weren’t five seconds away grabbing his face and smothering it in kisses.

“Uhh what do you recommend?”

“I’d suggest the apple turnovers, I really think they came out well this time.”

You look over to where they were and saw two kids staring at them, the young girl trying to grab said turnover.

“Nobara, put that down.” Nanami says sternly, causing the girl to whip her head around as she got caught.

The little boy next to her looked over with crossed arms and a pout. “Told you it wouldn’t work.”

Nobara stuck her tongue out at the boy before she ran off and he followed behind her. Nanami sighs before looking back at you.

“Kids.” He sighs, shaking his head and you couldn’t help but chuckle.

“They’re cute! Are there yours?” You asked, a little part of you praying that there wasn’t another woman in the picture.

“I mean I’m their foster parent. I started fostering after I started this place started up.” He says, motioning around the cafe.

“Wait, you own this place?!��� Nanami nods proudly as he looks around the place.

“I realized while working that I just couldn’t anymore, I couldn’t stand the draining office environment.” Nanami explained, leaning on the register with a somber expression.

“So I spent a lot of time thinking “well what could I do?”. I started to look in at any other skills I had and honestly it took a lot longer then I’d like to admit.” Nanami muttered, a bit of pink in his ears.

“Though after thinking I realized that I could bake. Thanks to you I knew my baking wasn’t terrible so I tried it out. And here I am. Though I was a bit worried you were just being nice.”

Nanami chuckles before gives you a smile that you swear makes the entire room glow. You look at him and smile bashfully.

“If you want me to be honest I think you should’ve tried this sooner. I wasn’t being nice or anything you’re great at this stuff!”

You exclaim as you remember all the amazing treats that you had tried made by him. You always had to hold back from asking for more because you didn’t want to be rude. Nanami looks at you with eyes slightly wide and smiled as he stood up.

“I’m so happy you’re just the same as I remember.” Fondness filled his eyes as he looked at you.

Well damn was he trying to kill you?! You sigh as you look back at the menu.

“I’ll have an apple turnover and a latte, no foam please.” You sputter out as you try to keep your heart in your chest.

Nanami nods, placing your order in. As you start paying, a little pink haired boy comes out from the curtain behind Nanami. You had to hold in the awe you almost said because he was the cutest thing you ever saw.

“Papamin! We’re hungry!” The little boy says, grabbing onto Nanamis apron. Nanami gently placed a hand on his head as he finishes putting in your order.

“Let me finish with this customer ok Yuji?” Nanami says as the boy groans but runs back behind the curtain.

You finish paying but you end up staying at the register, still wanting to talk to Nanami and catch up on all the lost time. Even as he handed some treats to the kids you two still talked. You were so curious about this man who had been an enigma for so long so who could blame you for asking every question you could.

You learned that he loved reading and ever since quitting had finally started to work through the endless books on his to read list, he even gave you some recommendations. Sure you weren’t much of a reader but hey for him? You could learn how to be.

Despite finishing the coffee absolutely delicious turnover that you made sure to gush to Nanami about, you still wanted to stay. You had finally felt like you were back to making progress with maybe starting a friendship but life has a twisted sense of humor and an alarm went off, signaling you were nearing the end of your break.

Nanami glanced over at the phone then back at you, a slight frown on his face. “Do you have to leave?”

If it were up to you you’d stay till the sun set and rose again but it wasn’t. You sigh as you nod, thanking Nanami for the good food and telling him that you’d come back soon. Just as you got up from the table, Nanami stood up and grabbed your wrist which seemed to be a shock to both you and him.

Quickly letting go, Nanami pulls his arms back. He seemed just as shocked about his action as you were.

“Oh god I’m sorry, I was just wondering if you’d like to stay in contact? You were one of the few things I missed from that job.”

Nanami muttered as he starts to pull out his phone. Well there went your dreams of quickly getting over this crush. You agreed pathetically quick, putting in your number and smile as you left, waving goodbye to Nanami and his foster kids peaking out from the curtain.

Maybe you could come after work too.

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Nanami couldn’t stop his heart from pounding in his chest and a smile from creeping onto his face. Here he was, thinking he’d lost his chance to talk to your forever because he was too much of a coward to as you out before he left.

This time he knew he wasn’t gonna mess up, god you couldn’t come back sooner enough. As more customers started to come in, Megumi peeked his head out and looked at Nanami.

“Who was that lady?” He asks curiously as Nanami starts ringing up orders.

“An old friend of mine.” Had he acted sooner maybe he could be calling you his girlfriend.

“Will she come back soon?”

“I hope..”

[tx-land-us]

Why Texas Land for Sale is a Smart Investment Choice

Are you dreaming of owning a slice of the expansive Texas landscape? Whether you’re envisioning a tranquil country retreat, a productive farming plot, or a prime piece of real estate for future development, Lonestar Land Sales is your gateway to finding the perfect Texas land for sale.

Why Choose Texas? Texas, with its vast and varied terrain, offers unparalleled opportunities for landowners. From the rolling hills and dense forests of East Texas to the rugged beauty of the West Texas desert, and the fertile fields of the Central region, there’s a piece of Texas land that fits every vision and need. The state’s booming economy, low property taxes, and friendly business environment make it an attractive place for investment and lifestyle changes.

Lonestar Land Sales: Your Trusted Partner At Lonestar Land Sales, we specialize in helping buyers navigate the diverse real estate market across the Lone Star State. Our team is dedicated to making your land acquisition process smooth and rewarding. Here’s why our clients consistently choose us:

Comprehensive Listings Our extensive inventory includes a wide range of Texas land for sale, from small residential lots to large agricultural tracts. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to build your dream home or a vast expanse for ranching or development, our listings cater to various needs and budgets. We provide detailed information and high-quality photos for each property, ensuring you have all the necessary details to make an informed decision.

Expert Guidance Navigating the Texas real estate market can be overwhelming, especially with the state’s unique property laws and regulations. Our team of experienced professionals offers expert guidance every step of the way. We help you understand zoning regulations, property taxes, and land use restrictions, ensuring you’re fully informed before making a purchase.

Local Expertise Texas is a large state with diverse regions, each with its own characteristics and appeal. Our local experts possess in-depth knowledge of the regions we serve, from the urban allure of Dallas-Fort Worth to the serene landscapes of the Hill Country. This expertise allows us to match you with the ideal property based on your specific preferences and requirements.

Personalized Service At Lonestar Land Sales, we understand that buying land is a significant investment and a personal journey. We prioritize personalized service, taking the time to listen to your needs and preferences. Our goal is to ensure that your land purchase aligns perfectly with your vision and lifestyle.

Why Invest in Texas Land?

Investing in Texas land is more than just purchasing property; it’s about securing a future in one of the most dynamic states in the U.S. Here’s why Texas land is a wise investment:

Growing Population and Economy Texas continues to experience rapid population growth, with more people moving to the state each year for its thriving economy and high quality of life. This growth drives demand for land, making it a promising investment. Whether you’re interested in residential, commercial, or recreational properties, the increasing population fuels potential appreciation in land value.

Diverse Land Opportunities Texas offers a range of land opportunities to suit various needs. From agricultural lands ideal for farming and ranching to commercial properties located near bustling cities, the diversity of options ensures you can find the perfect fit for your investment goals.

Low Property Taxes Compared to many other states, Texas has relatively low property taxes. This favorable tax environment contributes to the overall appeal of investing in Texas land, allowing you to enjoy your property with fewer financial burdens.

Strong Land Value Appreciation Historical data shows that land values in Texas have appreciated steadily over the years. Investing in Texas land is not only about enjoying immediate benefits but also about securing long-term gains. As the state continues to grow and develop, your investment in land could yield significant returns.

Finding Your Ideal Property The process of finding and purchasing Texas land is simplified with Lonestar Land Sales. We offer:

Tailored Property Searches: Based on your preferences and criteria, we’ll help you find properties that match your vision.

Transparent Transactions: We believe in clear communication and transparency throughout the buying process, so there are no surprises.

Post-Purchase Support: Our relationship doesn’t end once the sale is completed. We offer support and resources to help you settle into your new property.

Start Your Journey Today Owning land in Texas is more accessible than you might think. With the help of Lonestar Land Sales, your dream of owning Texas land can become a reality. Our team is committed to providing you with the best options, expert advice, and personalized service to ensure a smooth and successful purchase.

Explore our current listings of Texas land for sale and get in touch with us to start your journey towards finding the perfect property. At Lonestar Land Sales, your ideal Texas land is just a step away.

[tx-land]

Why Now is the Best Time to Buy Texas Land

The Texas land market is vibrant and dynamic, offering opportunities for a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re in the market for expansive ranches, quaint residential lots, or plots for commercial development, Texas offers a diversity that’s hard to find elsewhere. What makes this market particularly appealing is its variety in pricing.

Depending on the region, the cost per acre can vary significantly, making it essential for potential buyers to familiarize themselves with the average land prices across different areas. In some areas of Texas, you can find some of the cheapest land in the country, presenting a unique opportunity for those looking for an affordable entry point into land ownership. With the backdrop of economic growth and historically low interest rates, the timing couldn’t be better to consider an investment in Texas land.

At Lonestar Land Sales, we understand that owning a piece of Texas land isn’t just an overnight process. And it’s not just about finding a piece of land; it’s about discovering a place with potential for growth, whether as a long-term investment or a personal planned development. Given these factors, the Texas land market stands out as an attractive option for anyone looking to invest in real estate. The combination of affordability, diversity, and economic vitality makes now an ideal time to explore what Texas has to offer. Follow along with this article as we discuss just why right now is the perfect time to purchase a piece of Texas land.

Why buy land in Texas now? Texas land, often overshadowed by the flashier real estate markets of California and New York, claims its unique position with unmatched affordability and versatility. This distinct charm sets it apart in the vast landscape of American real estate, offering an investment opportunity that marks Texas land as a category in its own right. Key types of Texas land include Ranches, Residential Lots, Commercial Acres, and Agricultural Fields, each known for their specific advantages.

Unimproved land in Texas also stands out, providing a blank canvas for investors and developers alike. Diving deeper, each type of Texas land showcases its own set of benefits, development potentials, historical significance, and recommendations for use. The following sections will explore these facets in detail, providing a deeper understanding of what makes buying land in Texas a strategic move for investors, families, and businesses worldwide.

Economic Growth Trends The economic landscape of Texas is flourishing, marked by robust growth across a variety of sectors. This upward trend not only boosts the state’s overall economic health but also elevates the intrinsic value of land, making it a prime time for investment. Here are the key economic indicators for Texas in 2024:

GDP Growth Rate: The Texas economy grew at an annual rate of 5.0% in the fourth quarter of 2023, outpacing the national average. However, growth is expected to moderate in 2024, with projections indicating a rate closer to 2.0%​. This moderation is seen as a return to more sustainable growth levels after the post-pandemic boom.

Employment Rate: Texas will add approximately 284,000 jobs in 2024, a 2% increase from the previous year, aligning with pre-pandemic growth rates. This marks a slowdown from the 3.1% job growth seen in 2022​. The construction and energy sectors continue to post strong gains, while manufacturing job growth has slowed. The service sector, particularly healthcare and leisure and hospitality, remains robust.

Major Industries Growth:

Energy: The energy sector continues to be a bright spot, with production surpassing pre-pandemic levels and ongoing job additions. The rebound in the energy sector has been significant, with Texas oil and gas production hitting record levels in late 2023​​.

Technology: Despite some sector-specific challenges, such as layoffs in 2023, the tech industry remains a significant contributor to the state’s economy. Texas continues to attract tech companies and startups, bolstering its reputation as a growing tech hub.

Construction: Single-family home construction remains robust, although building permits have slightly decreased. Homebuilders are focusing on smaller, more affordable homes to cater to the demand for lower-cost housing options. Despite high interest rates, the construction sector is adapting by building more compact and cost-effective homes​​.

Long-term Investment Growth The allure of Texas land as an investment lies in its long-term growth potential. With the state’s robust economic expansion, land values are poised for an upward trajectory. This growth spans across various regions, making an investment in Texas land a strategic move for those looking to capitalize on future returns. Historical data shows a consistent increase in land values, supported by the state’s economic stability and growth​.

Investing in Texas land now positions buyers to benefit from future appreciation. The state’s growing population and expanding industries are driving up demand for land, particularly in urban and suburban areas. As Texas continues to attract new residents and businesses, the demand for residential, commercial, and agricultural land is expected to rise, leading to higher land values over time. This makes land investment a lucrative opportunity for those seeking long-term returns.

Diverse Land Availability Diverse land availability is a hallmark of the Texas real estate landscape. From fertile agricultural fields to bustling urban lots, Texas offers a broad spectrum of land options. This diversity ensures that every investor or buyer can find land that fits their specific needs, whether for commercial development, residential purposes, or agricultural use.

For investors, this diversity provides multiple avenues for profit. Agricultural land, for example, is in high demand due to the state’s strong agricultural industry. Residential lots near major cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston are highly sought after for development. Commercial land in these areas also offers significant potential for business growth and development. The wide range of land types available in Texas means that investors can diversify their portfolios and mitigate risks by investing in different types of properties.

Significant Tax Benefits Significant tax benefits further enhance the attractiveness of purchasing land in Texas. These benefits, which can include reduced property taxes and exemptions, offer financial relief to landowners, lowering the overall cost of investment. Such incentives make the prospect of owning land in Texas not only more affordable but also more profitable in the long run​.

One of the key tax benefits is the agricultural exemption, which provides significant property tax reductions for land used for farming, ranching, or wildlife management. This exemption can make a substantial difference in the cost of holding land, especially for large tracts. Additionally, Texas does not have a state income tax, which further enhances the financial appeal of investing in land within the state. These tax advantages make Texas an attractive destination for investors looking to maximize their returns.

Conclusion Investing in Texas land today is an opportunity ripe with potential, underscored by the state’s economic growth, diverse land availability, and favorable market conditions. The promise of long-term investment growth, alongside significant tax benefits, makes it an opportune time to explore what Texas has to offer. However, a successful purchase requires a careful approach, taking into account essential factors such as location, zoning, land use restrictions, environmental assessments, and legal status.

By addressing these considerations meticulously, investors can unlock the full benefits of land ownership in Texas, setting the stage for a prosperous venture in this dynamic and flourishing market.

Lonestar Land Sales At Lonestar Land Sales, we specialize in connecting buyers with the perfect piece of Texas land. Our extensive portfolio includes properties in the Austin, Central Texas, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio areas, each offering unique opportunities for development, investment, or personal use. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized service and guidance throughout the buying process, ensuring you find the ideal property that meets your needs and budget. Buying land may not be an overnight process, but it doesn’t have to be a headache, and it’s easy to get started with the Lonestar Land Sales team.

ORIGINALLY FOUND ON- Source: Lonestar Land Sales(https://www.tx-land.com/blog/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-buy-texas-land/)

[tarotwithart]

ⴕ ( details of your future spouse⠀ )⠀⠀⠀ 𓆩♡𓆪

❝ in every whatnot,

I'll tie a knot with you... ❞

⋆ .... ♡ how to pick a pile ୨ ɞ !

-` ✧ ࿐ from left to right — intuitively choose the pile through your mind or what your soul desire for. take what does it resonates considering this is a general reading...

𝐒ource & 𝐃isclaimer: pictures I've used for pick a pile was from pinterest, the divider was from @.v6que while the banner was made by me. expect plenty of grammatical errors, please kindly enlightened me in a nice way when you couldn't understand what is the message behind of the reading, thanks!

PILE ONE

6 of wands, king of pentacles, 9 of pentacles

Everyone eyes are all to them, whether it may glimpse naturally or seldom-a kind of individual who can turn heads by its appearance and good body. The definition of success and achiever this makes them quite popular or well known in others, although prideful doesn't mean they're narcissistic. In what scale in it, would likely people rate them as 9-10 not only for looks but for other traits and people will fall for them instantly. S/he could beat someone by using his/her skills no doubt needed- a great player indeed. An individual that denotes someone who is highly passionate about certain things into his/her own life yet will always be remain humble even though s/he's aiming top and to forthcoming.

S/he displaying a strong leadership which people adore and people can depend on these said traits also have major impact for people who surround them. For what I seen, s/he can make own money and wealth through being famous and it could give them a long lasting success in life. If being famous does make them to have more money and having money will make them more even famous. Into people's opinions and view s/he is perfect as they seen, who wouldn't right? money, success and fame are all at once to them- what a lucky man. Proud for what they achieve but not in negative way. Expensive looking- s/he would love those kind of things specially in clothing and jewelries, it makes them looks like having high status which can be true. Either s/he working as business owner or a wealthy land owner, it could also define working in real state as well.

Sometimes can be totally stubborn but they very mature and grounded most of the time, it's normal for everyone to be stubborn (it means that they aren't perfect as they seems) a totally hard working individual and who also aware how they can rule through designated society (work/place). It also signifies someone who will be generous into their finance, energy and time, s/he will knew what are their commitments and responsibilities and tends to do what they say. They tends not have any anger issues as long as s/he could understand the situation and the person however they tends to be like a volcano- will be very explosive when they do get mad. You will be lucky for having this person, quite indulgent when it comes giving gifts to their lovers- mostly will bring the best and expensive gift you'll be receiving.

However the lover will tends to be lonely as the spouse is often busy for something like work (workaholic/ self-driven/ career focus) on negative note s/he will view their lover as part of their possessions. As my advice don't make them feel jealous or dark moods that may occur in surface as it will turn to be very chaotic. S/he may possibly own some pets especially dogs and horses, they will be independent whether it is financially and emotionally. You would never found this person chasing others cause they can easily attract people into their lives. Rerely takes anything personally and reason is s/he knows it better and likely to appreciate the finest things in life.

hugs and kisses, Vella

PILE TWO

queen of cups, 10 of cups, the lovers, 10 of pentacles

A typical type of person who is sensitive and is attached to their feelings, s/he concerned with the matter of heart, emotions, family and relationships. S/he possess a strong empathy for the others, if their love ones is happy and so they are too. Strong intuition- they will be aware if someone needs them or isn't right, they are not judgemental and will try their best to understand the situation. In past, s/he experience a painful situationship and will do the best to avoid it again.

Typically shy in nature but a great listener when you someone needs them and mostly without knowing people will come to them naturally without hesitation- the only problem in here is that when problems occur into their own life, they rarely receive help from others. S/he is family oriented individual, they got some friends but family, partner and kids are most highlight and important for them. Even though you prefer men- he will have feminine features and if women she is gorgeous, may look like a goddess. In any occasion regarding to family, they will be extremely happy to gather their family especially his/her siblings with or cousins.

Generally a happy individual and rarely take negative insights as well will be feelin' grateful for what the above give to them. S/he might love to put smile on his/her face or to others, love to laughs even though in lame jokes- sometimes people do wonder if they faking their happiness but it actually isn't. They are contented to what God give to them and they probably cherish it with all of their heart, also they tends to be very spiritual individual too.

S/he will be come an excellent parent and partner and will do their best to serve and nurture their own family. This individual will possibly teach you a lot- that happiness doesn't come from material things and it comes from within, that happiness is a choice, that family and kids should be put first, that how you love your self is should be how you love the others and more great good lessons.

They want or having desire to have at least two kids perhaps a twin will be perfect for them. It also refers to someone who is playful but can be childish sometimes and very very talkative when you get to know them or when they are comfortable in someone. The type of love language they want is physical touch so be ready for lots of kisses, hugging and touching, technically they enjoy the attachment of skins. Also they proud for what body or skin do they have, confident is the key here. S/he will make you feel how deep the love is, they will understand what you have been through. You both have different lives and what have been through however they will put to understand you that life is like that and happiness is just around. You will experience unconditional love from this person.

And yes they do have some money to flaunt too but they value more the family, health and gratitude for the others. S/he do appear very lavish into how they clothes themselves even though they don't try to be like that. The only person who will make you feel that you are safe and secure into their loving arms. They do love dating (even at this moment) but do searching for someone who can have long term committed relationship with them and don't want to rush things when they do date, they want to get more someone into deeper level.

hugs and kisses, Vella

PILE THREE

4 of wands, the fool, 3 of wands reversed

A kind of individual who is the real representation of being naive and happy person, they do love their family and is willing to go whenever there's occasion regarding into family circle. It would represents someone who do brings joy and happiness towards other life by making silly jokes or for simply uplifting them in their hardest situationship. Whenever someone ( proclaiming it is a love one ) is weak, they bring something to feel this certain individual comfort like “ Hey! make it chill, I'm here for you ”. It also the type of person who is making an effort to attend or be able to be present in family gathering even though they are quite busy they wouldn't hesitate to be right there with the fam.

Negative aspects of them which I can tell for only few of you who's happen to pick this pile, that this person will be more focus into their family rather than you. It might be one of the reasons why you both will have disagreements. Anyway, let's just move on and see what the future holds for you.

To continue, it could also symbolize someone who do love to play a lot probably a playboy or girl vibes, if not I see that they really to loves to play which can be games physical or online. I see that they do love pranking people who do close to them such as friends and cousins, can be siblings as well if happen they have one. This person represents someone who do care more to their appearance rather than for who they are. Sometimes people end up envying or feel jealous about them especially their peers.

As we're getting near at the end I feel that they are younger than you or it might be physically as well. It could also be mean that they are young at heart or someone who have young faces or can be an innocent. They do love their love freedom and do loves to wonder around or exploring the places that they never been. It might also symbolize someone who can be childish and likes being at the outdoor rather than indoor.

hugs and kisses, Vella

[queenoftheworldisdead]

Need me

Chapter 2

A/N: Reader is female. No physical descriptors used. Let me know if i fucked up and not do that. Chat me up i don't bite! Thank you

Summary: Stripper just wants to work to support herself, but her bad life choices come back to bite her in the ass.

Warning: Adult content only! 18+ only please. Dark! There is potentially triggering stories ahead. non-consensual sex/ dubious consent, self loathing

Dark Mafia Bucky x Reader (stripper), Mafia AU ( mentions of past relations with Tony Stark)

👠

Bucky POV

Bucky sat behind the massive wooden desk, his gaze fixing on the ledger before him, but his thoughts were elsewhere. You dance around in his mind, tauntingly, stoking the anger that licks at his thoughts. The feeling has been there ever since you’d struck him, bold and defiant. From that moment you hadn’t just bruised his pride. No, you’d ignited something far deeper, something primal that clawed at him with a ferocity he couldn’t silence.

The guys watching your daughter said you hadn’t been back in days. Fine. You’d made him patient, each day feeding his twisted satisfaction as he crafted new punishments just for you. The thought of you bent, begging, sobbing under his unrelenting hand brought a cruel curl to his lips.

A soft knock at the door tore through his thoughts, his gaze snapping up as Steve’s broad figure filled the doorway, entering without waiting for permission.

“Hey, Buck. Still grumpy about your missing kitten?” Steve teases, a smirk tugging at his lips as he closes the door behind him.

“Is that what you came here for?” Bucky grumbles , rolling his eyes as he turned back to the ledger. Nick’s books were a mess, a black hole of debts and mismanagement that needed more than his cursory attention.

“No,” Steve replies, snatching the ledger from the desk, squinting at the numbers before tossing it aside with a chuckle. “I’m here because my friend is in desperate need of some fun. You’re bringing everyone down. We should be celebrating—new territory, new club, new girls. Why don’t I send one of them down here to help you unwind?”

The suggestion lingers, a temptation that might have been enough for another man—a distraction to pass the time. But not for Bucky. He wasn’t looking for something fleeting or shallow. He needed more. He needed you.

You had started something, a blaze that smoldered in him, and he would let it burn until there was nothing left. Until it consumed him. Until it consumed you.

👠

Reader POV

You groan loudly as you stretch uncomfortably in the front seat of the sedan. Your back nags with the stiffness of your posture, protesting after another night spent twisted awkwardly in the driver’s seat. The air in the garage feels thick, stale—pressing against your skin like a damp sheet. It’s the best cover you could do, given the lack of finances.

The car feels smaller than it did last night, its silence gnawing at the edges of your nerves. You’d driven until the lines on the highway blurred, until every exit looked the same. No destination, no plan, just the desperate hope of outrunning the weight pressing on your chest.

Your eyes flick to the gas meter. The needle hovers perilously close to empty. You can’t stay here, not like this. With a sigh, you dig into the center console, your fingers scraping against old receipts and tangled wires. Nothing useful.

Leaning over, you wince as your spine protests the movement, a sharp crack echoing through the cramped space. Your hand brushes the latch of the glove box, and when it opens, something cold and heavy slides free.

The gun lands barrel-first in your direction. You pick it up gingerly and for a moment you just stare it. Its weight is heavy and unsettling. Loaded. It has to be and you don’t want to test the theory.

Your thoughts wander to the car’s owner—what he might do if he finds you. Your gut twists. But the thought doesn’t linger; you shove it down, force it away. There’s no time for that now.

You turn the gun over in your hands, the cold metal biting into your skin. Pawn it. You don’t know the name of the town or city you’re in, but pawn shops are everywhere. Digging into the blazer pocket, you find a burner phone. It’s cheap, but it’ll do to find what you need.

It’s something, at least. A plan. A small flicker of hope against the quiet panic that thrums in your veins.

👠

The pawnshop door groans as you shove it open, the bell above clanging sharply—a sound that feels too cheerful, too mocking. You step out, the thick with the sour stench of garbage and oil pooling in air as your shoe stomp over the cracks of the pavement. You clench your jaw, muttering a curse under your breath. They’d smelled the desperation on you the second you walked in—but it’s not like you hid it well.

The wad of cash in your pocket is laughably thin. One fifty. It wont get you much clothes, food, gas… shelter can wait the car will do.

The sidewalk stretches out ahead, chipped and uneven, strewn with crushed cans and sun-bleached cigarette butts. A small group of men loiters near a graffitied wall, their murmured conversation breaking into sharp laughs. One of them glances your way, then another. You shove your hands deeper into the oversized blazer pockets and keep walking, not fast enough to draw attention but brisk enough to put distance between you.

The car waits a few feet away, but with the looming stars on your back it feels like a mile. A siren wails in the distance, growing softer as you enter the sedan, it best to not stay longer than you need to.

Sliding in, you pull the door shut, locking it in one fluid motion. The engine hums to life, but your foot hovers over the gas as your eyes catch on a flickering neon sign ahead. Its vulgar glow is half-hidden behind an overgrown tree. A gentlemen's club. The lettering dull, some lights dead, but the meaning is clear—a strip club.

You drive closer observing the small lot. It’s a far cry from your old place of employment. The exterior battered, the windows boarded, yet there are still quite a few cars in the lot for this time of day.

The plan forms as you stare at the sign. If you’re lucky, you can get hired, work a few nights, and get enough money to run a little more.

Your thumb brushes over the thin stack of cash in your pocket as you chew the inside of your cheek. At least you still have your shoes—thank God for that. Dance shoes cost more than you want to think about. Clothes, though—that’s a problem, your outfit needs a wash and you don't have the time. But where there’s a club, there’s usually a shop nearby—one of those little “exotic” stores that’ll have what you need. For makeup, you could hit the drugstore, wash up in their restroom, and pull together something barely passable. It’s a gamble and you don’t have enough capital to lose.

Your reflection stares back at you from the rear-view mirror. Tired eyes, a face that looking older than it should, and a body long out of practice. The kind of gamble no one bets on.

👠

The stale stench of alcohol mixed with cigar smoke stings your nose, and you fight the urge to wrinkle it. The boy who led you to the booth—Jonny, looks too young to even be in a place like this. But it’s not your club, and truthfully, you don’t care.

You haven’t auditioned in years. The thought doesn’t rattle you, like it would've before. Just play dumb, act cute, and maybe they’ll give you a chance.

Your eyes drift to the swinging door in the distance, catching the faint motion of Jonny returning, flanked by two men. Their suits are sharp, their strides confident, but in the dim glow of the neon, their faces are hard to make out.

You rise as they approach, forcing a pleasant smile onto your lips.

“This her?” the man in the center asks, his accent thick, unfamiliar—something you’ve only ever heard on TV.

“Yeah,” Jonny replies, glancing at you with disinterest. “She says she can start now.”

The three of them size you up in silence, their gazes heavy and clinical. You keep the smile plastered on your face, even as the muscles in your cheeks begin to ache.

The tallest one gestures for you to turn. No words, just a motion, and you comply. You spin on your heels, your skimpy outfit bouncing with you, your stomach pulled tight in an effort to look better than you were. You feel like a fool, but you'll play the part. You have to.

When you stop, the three of them huddle briefly, their voices too low to catch. You step back and clasp your hands, the ache in your cheeks spreading to your chest as you pray they’ll say yes.

And then, you catch it—those icy blue eyes. They lock on you for a fraction too long, and your smile falters, just for a moment. Not him, you remind yourself. He’s not here. But the way this man carries himself—his presence, his air—it stirs the same cold dread deep in your gut.

“Alright, Arthur, your call. I’ve got other business,” the tall one says, stepping away with an air of dismissal.

You exhale, the weight on your shoulders lifting slightly as he leaves. You know he isn’t him—you can see that—but the echo of something familiar still lingers. Enough to make your pulse quicken, enough to remind you why you ran in the first place.

👠

[meret118]

A new report from Popular Democracy and the Institute for Policy Studies reveals how billionaire investors have become a major driver of the nationwide housing crisis. They summarize in their own words:

Billionaire-backed private equity firms worm their way into different segments of the housing market to extract ever-increasing rents and value from multi-family rental, single-family homes, and mobile home park communities.— Global billionaires purchase billions in U.S. real estate to diversify their asset holdings, driving the creation of luxury housing that functions as “safety deposit boxes in the sky.” Estimates of hidden wealth are as high as $36 trillion globally, with billions parked in U.S. land and housing markets. — Wealthy investors are acquiring property and holding units vacant, so that in many communities the number of vacant units greatly exceeds the number of unhoused people. Nationwide there are 16 million vacant homes: that is, 28 vacant homes for every unhoused person. — Billionaire investors are buying up a large segment of the short-term rental market, preventing local residents from living in these homes, in order to cash in on tourism. These are not small owners with one unit, but corporate owners with multiple properties. — Billionaire investors and corporate landlords are targeting communities of color and low-income residents, in particular, with rent increases, high rates of eviction, and unhealthy living conditions. What’s more, billionaire-owned private equity firms are investing in subsidized housing, enjoying tax breaks and public benefits, while raising rents and evicting low-income tenants from housing they are only required to keep affordable, temporarily.

. . .

Thirty-two percent is the magic threshold, according to research funded by the real estate listing company Zillow. When neighborhoods hit rent rates in excess of 32 percent of neighborhood income, homelessness explodes. And we’re seeing it play out right in front of us in cities across America because a handful of Wall Street billionaires are making a killing.

As the Zillow study notes:

“Across the country, the rent burden already exceeds the 32 percent [of median income] threshold in 100 of the 386 markets included in this analysis….”And wherever housing prices become more than three times annual income, homelessness stalks like the grim reaper.

That Zillow-funded study laid it out:

“This research demonstrates that the homeless population climbs faster when rent affordability — the share of income people spend on rent — crosses certain thresholds. In many areas beyond those thresholds, even modest rent increases can push thousands more Americans into homelessness.”This trend is massive.

. . .

As noted in a Wall Street Journal article titled “Meet Your New Landlord: Wall Street,” in just one suburb (Spring Hill) of Nashville:

“In all of Spring Hill, four firms … own nearly 700 houses … [which] amounts to about 5% of all the houses in town.”

This is the tiniest tip of the iceberg.

“On the first Tuesday of each month,” notes the Journal article about a similar phenomenon in Atlanta, investors “toted duffels stuffed with millions of dollars in cashier’s checks made out in various denominations so they wouldn’t have to interrupt their buying spree with trips to the bank…”

The same thing is happening in cities and suburbs all across America; agents for the billionaire investor goliaths use fine-tuned computer algorithms to sniff out houses they can turn into rental properties, making over-market and unbeatable cash bids often within minutes of a house hitting the market.

. . .

As the Bank of International Settlements summarized in a 2014 retrospective study of the years since the Reagan/Gingrich changes in banking and finance:

“We describe a Pareto frontier along which different levels of risk-taking map into different levels of welfare for the two parties, pitting Main Street against Wall Street. … We also show that financial innovation, asymmetric compensation schemes, concentration in the banking system, and bailout expectations enable or encourage greater risk-taking and allocate greater surplus to Wall Street at the expense of Main Street

.”It’s a fancy way of saying that billionaire-owned big banks and hedge funds have made trillions on housing while you and your community are becoming destitute.

. . .

Turns out it was Blackstone Group, now the world’s largest real estate investor run by a major Trump supporter. At the time they were buying $150 million worth of American houses every week, trying to spend over $10 billion. And that’s just a drop in the overall bucket.

As that new study from Popular Democracy and the Institute for Policy Studies found:

“[Billionaire Stephen Schwarzman’s] Blackstone is the largest corporate landlord in the world, with a vast and diversified real estate portfolio. It owns more than 300,000 residential units across the U.S., has $1 trillion in global assets, and nearly doubled its profits in 2021. “Blackstone owns 149,000 multi-family apartment units; 63,000 single-family homes; 70 mobile home parks with 13,000 lots through their subsidiary Treehouse Communities; and student housing, through American Campus Communities (144,300 beds in 205 properties as of 2022). Blackstone recently acquired 95,000 units of subsidized housing.”

In 2018, corporations and the billionaires that own or run them bought 1 out of every 10 homes sold in America, according to Dezember, noting that:

“Between 2006 and 2016, when the homeownership rate fell to its lowest level in fifty years, the number of renters grew by about a quarter.”

And it’s gotten worse every year since then.

. . .

Warren Buffett, KKR, and The Carlyle Group have all jumped into residential real estate, along with hundreds of smaller investment groups, and the National Home Rental Council has emerged as the industry’s premiere lobbying group, working to block rent control legislation and other efforts to control the industry.

As John Husing, the owner of Economics and Politics Inc., told The Tennessean newspaper:

“What you have are neighborhoods that are essentially unregulated apartment houses. It could be disastrous for the city.”

As Zillow found:

“The areas that are most vulnerable to rising rents, unaffordability, and poverty hold 15 percent of the U.S. population — and 47 percent of people experiencing homelessness.”

. . .

The loss of affordable homes also locks otherwise middle class families out of the traditional way wealth is accumulated — through home ownership: over 61% of all American middle-income family wealth is their home’s equity.

And as families are priced out of ownership and forced to rent, they become more vulnerable to homelessness.

Housing is one of the primary essentials of life. Nobody in America should be without it, and for society to work, housing costs must track incomes in a way that makes housing both available and affordable.

Singapore, Denmark, New Zealand, and parts of Canada have all put limits on billionaire, corporate, and foreign investment in housing, recognizing families’ residences as essential to life rather than purely a commodity. Multiple other countries are having that debate or moving to take similar actions as you read these words.

To address the housing shortage and bring down prices for renters and homeowners alike, the Harris campaign’s plan calls for a historic expansion of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and the first-ever tax incentive for homebuilders who build starter homes sold to first-time homebuyers. Building upon the Biden-Harris administration’s proposed $20 billion innovation fund, the campaign proposes a $40 billion fund that would support local innovations in housing supply solutions, catalyze innovative methods of construction financing, and empower developers and homebuilders to design and build affordable homes.

To cut red tape and bring down housing costs, the plan calls for streamlining permitting processes and reviews, including for transit-oriented development and conversions. The agenda also proposes making certain federal lands eligible to be repurposed for affordable housing development. Collectively, these policy proposals seek to create 3 million homes in the next four years.

The campaign plan cites the Biden-Harris administration’s ongoing actions to support the lowest-income renters, including its actions to expand rental assistance for veterans and other low-income renters, increase housing supply for people experiencing homelessness, enforce fair housing laws, and hold corporate landlords accountable.

Building upon these commitments, the Harris agenda calls upon Congress to pass the “Stop Predatory Investing Act,” which would remove key tax benefits for major investors who acquire large numbers of single-family rental homes (see Memo, 7/17/23), and the “Preventing the Algorithmic Facilitation of Rental Housing Cartels Act,” which would crack down on algorithmic rent-setting software that enables price-fixing among corporate landlords.

To make homeownership attainable, Vice President Harris’s proposal would provide up to $25,000 in downpayment assistance for first-time homebuyers who have paid their rent on time for two years. First-generation homeowners – those whose parents did not own homes – would receive more generous assistance.

Vice President Harris’s economic agenda also includes proposals to lower grocery costs, lower the costs of prescription drugs and relieve medical debt, and cut taxes for workers and families with children. The plan would restore the American Rescue Plan’s expanded Child Tax Credit, which provided up to $3,600 per child for low- and middle-income families for one year before it expired in 2022, and would enact a new $6,000 tax credit for families in the first year after their child is born. These measures to reduce expenses and boost household income would also improve housing security for low-income families, who often face impossible tradeoffs between paying rent and affording food, medical care, and other basic needs.

-----

Sorry for the length, but I thought this was really important.

[wolfdrawer]

Alright so, who's ready for a cowboy au!!

General premise of it:

Gideon Coal is on the hunt for the hobgoblins that took his family away from him and has left him a permanent scar. With the help of a crew he hired, he'll finally seek his revenge.

All characters are their normal races just not their classes. So...Avantris that got hit with the western stick. Just so there's no confusion.

And they all have different nicknames but I haven't thought of much...still a work in progress.

Characters:

Gideon Coal:

•The leader who's fiery revenge is gonna make for a mighty risky plan.

•His outfit is like Orville Peck's if it was more chaotic and messy.

• (Thank you @obsidiancreates for this idea) He looks like a mess on purpose, since he's had too many people doubting him, might as well adapt to it. His guns doesn't look clean so people assume he's got no game and will get himself killed.

•His fine weapon of choice is his Pappy's trusty shotgun and a dingy revolver that was left behind when the hobgoblins invaded. He's a tank that likes to go head first and do as much damage. Although he's not fully advanced with the revolver, he gets the job done with it.

•He's a massive risk taker, getting into fights with the wrong people to get what he wants and a big shit stirrer whether it's flirting or sleeping with another man's girl or just pick pocketing from his winnings. If it's a risk, it's already worth it.

Kremy Lecroux :

•The proud owner of the Hungry Catfish after running away from his old employer. When he's not making sure the patrons of his bar aren't ripping each other to shreds or causing mayhem or doing finance, sometimes he likes to go down and give a show. Whether dancing or singing, he'll put on a show for his patrons.

•He's the only one not affected by the hobgoblins because he runs away whenever he's paranoid and feels like they are too close to his business or his life. But he knows too many stories.

•He can be a flirt but it never goes far because although he doesn't look like it, he's a fighter.

•He's the closest one that maybe has magic, however, it's all just a magic trick, smoke and mirrors as he performs.

•His performing outfit consists more of a regular button up, a corset, leather gloves, normal leather pants, and a big jacket. And his actual outfit is something I have to get drawing on. He does wear his makeup for each outfit, his performing outfit more of the typical voodoo paintings and then when he's out, it's a hand made skull mask he made.

•Weapons of choice would be his two ranger guns that sit on the lower back of him and his cane that doubles as a hidden sword because I do love me some hidden swords.

•You can make a deal with him, whether it's getting him for a heist or helping you get the money you need from a game, he's your man as long as you can pay him with as much as you got. (60 - 40 like he said)

Morning Frost:

•A working farm hand that got his knack for shooting things across the way when he had to quickly grab his mom's rifle and snipe a hobgoblin that was about to grab his friend. He got a few more shots in before the hobgoblins finally got away from his village. He was regarded as a hero and forced to learn the ways of the world pretty harshly. Now in the future, his knack for the rifle has landed him to be able to turn off his emotions in a pinch to get the job done, although it bleeds through when the going gets tough.

•His outfit, and this may be obscure, is going to be a sort of ref to Tigerclaw from the 2012 TMNT, just without the eye patch and adding a few more details to make it more cowboy aesthetic.

•His weapon of choice of course is his mom's trusty rifle that he cares for deeply and makes sure it's in tip top shape everyday.

•He's calculated, knowing risks and how dumb it would be to do something, but he's not above going in and sniping for a job if he desperately needs the money.

•He still lives in his village, now a protector of sorts and still practices his shooting to hone it even though he's already good, but good just isn't enough.

•He has 2 lockets around his neck that his mom and dad wore, each containing a faux gem that he feels represents them with a picture of each them. I will say the jewels later but I have to do my research on jewels.

Gricko Grimgrin and Hootsie T. Grimgrin:

•A man in the midst of woods and barely any civilization, Gricko lives for the hunt. With his daughter and trusty companion Hootsie, they scavenge all they can for their meals. Unlike the rest of the guys, they are so far into the woods, that they don't know any stories about hobgoblins nor have they even heard anything that sounds like a train. What is a train to them?

•Because of hunting, he's mastered the art of traps and the usefulness of materials. Everyday, he makes a new trap or stocks up on old ones, just to be ready. On his scavenging, he finds things that people who venture too close have and makes more of his weapons like makeshift bombs or fixing himself a knife as best as he can. Basically a wild man.

•Weapons of choice would be his makeshift bombs, think of Sokka's bomb from Avatar, and a janky knife he tried to make using bullets he found on a random corpse. It does it's job and that's all that matters to him. I am debating on whether or not to give him a gun, but I want to get everyone different guns. Still debating.

•Hootsie was going to be one of Gricko's marks, but Gricko does understand nature more than anything and took pity on the owlbear cub that lost its momma, and now he raises her as his own, inseparable. Now, she helps with scoping out prey and sniffing out when people are near.

And that's what I have so far! Hopefully I can fully get more of an idea for them and can get the map fully to really scope out how much these hobgolbins have fucked with everyone, but for now, take these disconnecting things. Torbek and Twig will be here as well, but I'm also trying to figure out their backstory and their roles in this without overlapping a bunch. The drawings I will have to add later because Gricko's and Frost is something I have to workshop. Especially Gricko because I want to make him a wild man but not a savage, anyone catch what I'm putting down, you know. If not it's fine, but I just have to think of his outfit. Anyway Enjoy!