#motivational speakers in London

[onsitecarservicing-blog]

Building a More Equitable and Sustainable Future: Why Environmental Justice Matters

Have you ever noticed how a factory spewing smoke always appears to be near to a neighbourhood that is lower class, or how coastal villages who are not resourceful enough to adapt to rising sea levels are threatened? In actuality, marginalised populations are frequently the ones most severely impacted by environmental challenges. In order to create a future that is really sustainable, the idea of environmental justice becomes important in this situation.

Ensuring equitable treatment and meaningful participation for all individuals, irrespective of their colour, class, ethnicity, or nationality, in the formulation, execution, and upholding of environmental laws, regulations, and policies is the essence of environmental justice. The goal is to lessen the burden of environmental degradation and guarantee that everyone lives in a healthy environment.

Consider this: is a world in which we have addressed climate change but whole populations have been uprooted because of increasing sea levels really sustainable? It is crucial that a variety of viewpoints steer the discussion on environmental solutions because of this. Environmental speakers are important because we should pay attention to the people who are most impacted by environmental concerns.

You may now be thinking of the traditional after dinner speaker agency or motivational speakers in London that are hired for corporate functions. Speakers in environments differ. These individuals are fervent supporters who strive to increase public knowledge of environmental justice concerns and motivate action towards remedies that are advantageous to the environment and society at large.

Scientists, activists, and community leaders are among them, and they all bring different perspectives to the table.

Imagine hearing from a young leader from the indigenous community about the terrible consequences of oil drilling on their ancestral grounds. Or a low-income neighbourhood community organiser advocating for healthier air. Because they are rooted in the actual experience of environmental injustice, these voices have great force. They push us to address the human cost of sustainability in addition to its technical components.

We learn more about the struggles marginalised groups experience and how environmental policies may sometimes make already-existing disparities worse by listening to these speakers. This motivates us to take action, such as endorsing causes run by the most affected parties, pushing laws that advance environmental justice, or even altering our own purchasing patterns.

It goes beyond simply checking a box or feeling good. In order to create a future where social justice and environmental conservation go hand in hand, we all have a part to play.

To learn more, there are a plethora of materials accessible, including movies that give voice to these communities, websites devoted to environmental justice problems, and even future events where these motivational speakers will be present. The secret is to keep yourself informed, become active, and speak out in favour of change.

Recall that a sustainable future encompasses more than just verdant areas and pure air. The goal is to guarantee everyone has access to a healthy environment, which necessitates tackling the underlying causes of environmental injustice. Together, let's create a future in which social justice and sustainability are two sides of the same coin.

[visualmerchandising-blog]

Unlocking Success: The Impact of Motivational Speakers in London on Corporate Events

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate events, the key to success lies in staying ahead of trends and incorporating fresh, impactful elements. One avenue that's been gaining momentum is the integration of motivational speakers in London, a city renowned for its diverse and thriving industry. Let's delve into some insightful data that can transform your corporate event from ordinary to extraordinary.

Go Green, Be Seen:

Corporate events are not just about business; they are also an opportunity to showcase social responsibility. The growing trend of sustainability in events is hard to ignore. According to recent statistics, there has been a significant increase in the demand for eco-friendly venues and environmentally responsible practices. Events that prioritise sustainability not only contribute to a reduced carbon footprint but also resonate positively with attendees. By incorporating sustainable practices, you not only align your event with a global movement but also position your brand as environmentally conscious.

Hybrid Hustle: The Best of Both Worlds:

The rise of hybrid events has been a game-changer, especially in a digital age. Recent data highlights that a substantial percentage of companies are now incorporating virtual elements into their events, including mental health speakers. The benefits are clear – increased reach and engagement potential compared to traditional in-person gatherings. Attendees are showing a preference for hybrid events, emphasising the need for a motivational speaker agency to adapt their delivery for virtual platforms. Embracing this trend ensures that your event caters to a broader audience while providing a seamless and inclusive experience.

Tech Time: Amp Up Audience Interaction:

The integration of interactive technology is revolutionising audience engagement at corporate events. Studies reveal that interactive tools lead to increased retention rates, higher audience participation, and improved post-event satisfaction scores. Embrace the tech revolution by incorporating tools that enhance presentations by online event speakers and the overall audience interaction. The impact on the event experience is undeniable, setting your event apart in the minds of attendees.

London's Speaker Spotlight:

London's vibrant motivational speaker pool is a key asset for any event organiser. The city stands out not just in terms of quantity but also in the diversity and expertise of its speakers. Recent data showcases the significance of London as a hub for motivational speakers, with surveys and rankings highlighting the city's reputation for hosting exceptional events with top-tier speakers. When considering speakers for your event, tapping into London's rich pool ensures a wide array of choices, each bringing a unique perspective to the stage.

Actionable Tips:

To bring it all together, let's explore actionable tips based on industry insights. Surveys and expert opinions emphasise the importance of thoughtful speaker selection, negotiation strategies, and the tangible impact of motivational speakers on event success. Statistics on the return on investment (ROI) of hiring motivational speakers for corporate events are compelling. The data illustrates the benefits in terms of enhanced employee engagement, increased productivity, and overall event success.

In conclusion, your corporate event can stand out by embracing these insights and trends. London's motivational speakers, combined with sustainable practices, hybrid event formats, and interactive technology, create a winning formula. Remember, it's not just about organising an event; it's about creating an experience that leaves a lasting impression. As you plan your next corporate gathering, consider these bonus insights to add sizzle and elevate your event to new heights.

[afterdinner-speakers]

Discover the Power of Motivational Speakers in London

Motivational speakers have the ability to inspire, motivate, and uplift audiences. In the heart of the UK, London plays host to a plethora of world-class motivational speakers who can turn any corporate event, function, or conference into a life-changing experience for the attendees. This article is dedicated to exploring the world of motivational speakers in London, their unique abilities, and how they can be a game-changer for your next event.

Understanding the Role of Motivational Speakers

Motivational speakers are individuals who have mastered the art of storytelling to inspire and motivate their audiences. They come from various walks of life, having achieved great things despite facing adversity. What sets them apart is not just their unique life stories, but the passion, eloquence and energy they bring to the stage.

Peak Performance and Business Management: Some motivational speakers specialise in topics such as peak performance, business management, and entrepreneurship. They can inspire your audience to strive for better performance and efficiency in their professional lives.

Personal Development and Resilience: Other speakers focus on personal development, communication skills, conflict resolution, and resilience. They can help individuals improve their personal skills and resilience in the face of challenges.

Youth and Social Issues: There are also speakers who dedicate their time towards addressing younger generations and social issues like drug and alcohol abuse. Such speakers are often highly effective in educational settings.

The Impact of Female Motivational Speakers

The world of motivational speaking is not limited to men. There are many exceptional female motivational speakers who have achieved great feats in their respective fields. From Olympic medallists to successful entrepreneurs, these women bring a different perspective to the stage, inspiring others with their stories of triumph and perseverance.

The Power of Motivational Speaking in London

London, a global hub of business, finance and politics, is home to numerous motivational speakers who have made significant contributions to various industries. These speakers utilise their experiences and skills to inspire and motivate audiences, making them an excellent choice for corporate events, functions, and conferences.

Notable Motivational Speakers in London

Among the best motivational speakers in the UK, some make their home in London. Here are a few noteworthy names:

Andrew Bryant

With over 140 research papers referencing his work on self-leadership, Andrew Bryant has over 25 years of experience as a leadership facilitator and coach for companies from London to Silicon Valley. His latest work, 'The New Leadership Playbook: Being Human While Driving Accelerated Results', is changing the conversation about leadership in a post-pandemic world.

Jamie McDonald

Jamie McDonald, also known as 'Adventureman', has an inspiring story of resilience and determination. Having defied the odds to beat a debilitating childhood condition, he has run across some of the largest countries in the world and broken two of the toughest endurance Guinness world records on the planet.

Bear Grylls

Bear Grylls is a household name, known for his survival and outdoor adventures. A former member of the British Special Forces and Everest conqueror, Grylls is an engaging speaker who combines his love for adventure with lessons on resilience, leadership, and environmental responsibility.

Katherine Grainger

Katherine Grainger, Britain’s most decorated female Olympian, has won medals at five consecutive Olympic Games. Her warm speaking style, combined with her fierce determination and proven ability to face adversity, makes her an engaging motivational speaker.

Marcus Buckingham

Marcus Buckingham, a former senior scientist and best-selling author, is a leading expert on Talent and Employee Engagement. He has dedicated his life to understanding what makes world-class managers tick and champions the idea that individuals are more effective when they play to their strengths.

Sahar Hashemi

Sahar Hashemi is one of the UK’s most inspirational female entrepreneurs. She grew 'Coffee Republic' from scratch to a £30m turnover and believes that if you’re human, you’re an entrepreneur.

Booking Motivational Speakers in London

London boasts a range of speaker agencies that represent some of the most influential motivational speakers in the UK. These agencies provide a platform for businesses and organisations to find and book the perfect speaker for their event.

How to Choose the Right Motivational Speaker

When choosing a motivational speaker for your event, consider the following:

Event speaker agency to use: to book the motivational speaker through.

Theme of the Event: The speaker should be able to speak on topics that align with the theme of your event.

Audience Needs: The speaker should be able to tailor their talk to the specific objectives of your event and the audience's needs.

Budget: The speaker's fee can vary depending on their experience, credentials, and celebrity status.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, motivational speakers in London offer a wealth of knowledge, experience, and inspiration. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a conference, or an educational seminar, engaging a motivational speaker can provide a unique and inspiring perspective that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.

So, the next time you're planning an event in London, consider the power of motivational speaking. It just might be the element that takes your event from good to great.

[kekeyw]

klean soho apartment. | cc build

hi everyone!

i built a two story apartment that features @felixandresims and @harrie-cc 's latest collections, Kichen 2Point0, Klean and Soho.

gallery id: kekeyw

packs used: backyard stuff, cool kitchen stuff

placed: IX Langraab, San Myshuno

watch youtube video here

download tray files here

how to place the stairs -> here

cc list below the cut

house of harlix - bafroom, baysic bathroom, baysic, jardane, kichen 2point0, livin' rum, kichen

harrie - klean (all), brownstone, brutalist bathroom, coastal pt3, halycon kitchen, kwatei pt1, octave pt2, 3, shop the look (all)

felixandre - soho (all), chateau pt4, 5, berlin pt1, 3, florence pt1, 3, grove pt1, 3, london, shop the look (all), paris pt3, kyoto pt2,

pierisim - calderone, coldbrew, david pt1, mcm (all), pantry party, stefan kitchen, office, auntie vera, unfold, woodland ranch pt3

bbygyal123 - advent calendar (shopping bag)

charly pancakes - chalk, miscelleneous

the clutter cat - dandy diary pt1, 2, snuggle set pt1

linacherie - backyard candle override

littledica - eco kitchen, delicato, rise&grind (stair rails)

myshunosun - gale dining, simmify guitar,

peacemaker - hudson bathroom, futura

ravasheen - flood saucer light, motivational speaker, sip sip hooray

thank you to the following cc creators: @pierisim @bbygyal123 @charlypancakes @thecluttercat @linacheries @littledica @myshunosun @peacemaker-ic @ravasheencc

[jaynovz]

okay let’s back up again from me being insane and look at the BEAUTIFUL voiceover abigail delivers during nicholas’ funeral. she sees the crew mourning their brother, the deep sadness, the rituals, and she has a revelation at last. god I’n so proud of her, a girl kidnapped twice by pirates and dubious as to the third “rescueing” by a different pirate, allowing herself room to grow and change and see past her bias UGH I love it

“From across an ocean, it is hard to know what the New World is. All I knew were the stories I was told of monsters and valiant men sworn to slay them. But now that I've nearly traversed the ocean that separates New World from old, I fear that the stories I've heard may have clouded the truth more than clarified it.

It would seem these monsters are men-- Sons, brothers, fathers. And it would seem these men fear their own monsters-- An empire... a navy... a king. My father. So much I've left behind me-- London, my youth, and comfortable stories. So much lies ahead in Charles Town-- A future and harder truths.”

there it is folks, there’s the thesis of the show, and perhaps a bit more relevant in this given episode the thesis of the season. presented in beautiful cadence, in poetry.

who is the villain of s2? it’s not ned low, no he’s a bait and switch, that is quickly subverted, and it’s not vane and his lumberjacks, not really. the villain of s2 is peter ashe and civilization. the villain in black sails is, at the end of the day, ALWAYS civilization. 

it’s about truths and mistruths monsters and men and clouding and clarifying and the power of stories and how they trick us and how recontexualizing into a narrative, depending on the speaker, depending on the motive, depending on the INTENT, can influence one, can befuddle you, can block your perception and that a story MUST be interrogated

comfortable stories versus a future and harder truths

that’s black sails

[notyour-valentine]

Don't forget to smile :-) ~ modern!Tommy Shelby & Reader (platonic fluff/angst)

[Masterlist] [Taglist]

Summary: Tommy can't think of anything more ridiculous than the cheery messages the Barista keeps scribbling down on his to go coffee cups

Note: Written for @mrsalwayswrite auparty - I know I am super late, but life was busy and I was more representative of this Tommy than this reader. Despite the delay, I still hope you still enjoy it. At least, by now, I have the element of surprise on my side!

I do not consent to my work being translated, copied or posted elsewhere on this platform or any other. This hasn't been beta'd so I apologise for typos or mistakes

Warning: anger? car crash, violence, mention of blood, a tiny bit of politics? Depression, mention of suicide. Also Crypto Bros. Expect canon confirming tone and mention of violence.

Wordcount: 2282 words

Don’t forget to smile :-) 

The letters were mocking him. 

The four words added in sharpie to the to-go cup, in such a haste that the drawing had been smudged slightly. 

Don’t forget to smile :-) 

There was very little to smile about in the life of Thomas Shelby, especially these days and so it felt like a personal attack. 

He turned the cup so that he wouldn’t have to look at them. 

The most annoying thing about it was that stupid smiley. It made him want to punch a hole through the to-go cup with his pen just to be rid of it. 

It was as if she was trying to insult him, not just with that idiotic drawing and those empty words she always scribbled down on his cup, but with her whole demeanour. 

She was always smiling. 

She was always wishing everyone a “fantastic day!”

Tommy always knew some people were born with less than half a brain but very few had decided to be as blatantly obvious about it. 

Always smiling, always cheery, always adding messages like these that sounded like they had been taken straight from the pages of some overpriced self help book - or from one of these idiotic motivational instagram pages that would put cheesy phrases over the backdrop of some UFC fighter who would probably subcome to CTE before he turned fifty but he looked tough so what did it matter when you could turn it into an ‘inspirational image’ with ‘good energy’

That entire generation was nothing but a collection of fools living in an echo chamber and throwing phrases like “vibes” and “energy” about, although if he told them that, they’d probably “call him out” for his “toxic masculinity” and “bad vibes”. 

The fact that he knew all these things made him want to curse Ada even more, who had written her second dissertation about said ‘toxic masculinity’, or maybe third - he didn't remember, and to Finn, who only last week offered to ‘connect’ him with one inspirational speaker he really liked who was doing a podcast and really wanted Tommy to be a guest on it. 

He’d rather eat broken glass. 

But like most awful things in his life, that barista was unrelenting.

Apparently she was always the one doing the graveyard shifts, because it was always her handing out his coffee at the drive through in the earliest morning hours, always smiling, always with those stupid useless sayings.

The whole business would work better if their employees didn’t waste time with meaningless scribbles no one would ever bother to read. 

You’re doing great!

As if Tommy Shelby needed a little barista to tell him that.

He knew he was doing great. He knew how far he had come, straight out of the social estate housing in Birmingham to the penthouses of London and New York, with businesses on every continent and a company on the stock market (and several that would never be connected to his or his family’s name). 

Be proud of yourself!

Especially on a day like this with the Chinese business close to blowing up, it made him want to crumple up the cup in his hand, and preferably her idiotic smile with it. 

It was just so unnecessary - a waste of time and energy, even of ink itself. 

But no matter what, he could always count on those few words of writing to ruin his morning. 

Today again. 

You are loved!

He didn’t feel loved, if that even was a thing, not after Polly had been screaming at him for an hour straight, making his ears ring. 

Then again - 

Today’s a great day to have a great day!

What did that even fucking mean?

And what if some other car crashed into his on the way to work and squashed his skull to mush? That would be a sight for the firefighters that would be called to scrape his brains off of the asphalt. 

The next time he’d have to teach one of his rivals a lesson, he should send them something with that saying on first, before blowing up their car or setting fire to their restaurant.

It was funny in a way. 

You’ve totally got this!

He had stared at the writing for longer than he should have, having been up for nearly twenty hours now, running only on stubbornness, caffeine and desperation. 

You’ve totally got this!

Tommy stared at it and thought of the little barista with her silly apron covered in coloured buttons on the side, filled with meaningless slogans and symbols. 

As if putting some logo on a badge would fix things. 

She was only pretending to care about these causes, about him, about all the other customers she smiled at. 

But at least she’s pretending, a voice in his head reminded it. No one else is fucking doing it.

Least of all himself.

These days, Tommy was too tired to pretend, but it didn’t matter, did it?

Not really. After all, everyone was busy, everyone was desperate. 

Ada was up and about changing the world, writing books and fighting causes, trying to pass laws in at least six different countries at once, while Polly was somehow at the Met Gala, the Biennale and Cannes at the same time, hardly spending half as much time in England as she was spending in Monaco or St. Tropez or the Maldives. 

Arthur was already stretched to his limits, in and out of the clinical rehabs Polly and Ada put him in and the church retreats in Iowa that Linda recommended, and talking to his wife was tricky these days, after it came out that she had donated to some politician Ada hated. 

At first she and his sister had been throwing insults, then food, and in the end even fists had flown. 

There was no talking to any of them now. 

Just him, always him. 

“You’re earlier than usual!”, she remarked when he pulled up to the drive way.

Tommy only huffed. 

“Have a great day!”, she told him as she handed him his coffee and a sandwich he probably wouldn’t eat. 

Some days he even wondered if they would notice if he would disappear. 

They would, of course, at least when the money dried up. 

She was doing it for the same reason. He might not like her but he was a fair tipper.

Still, she’d notice before they would. 

Which was - something? He didn’t know, and he didn’t have the energy to think about it. 

London inner city traffic allowed him to glance at what she had written today

You are blessed!

Rolling his eyes, Tommy took a sip. 

So meaningless. So childish. So useless. 

Every single day, like an endless stream of blind idiocy. 

Don’t forget to smile =)

People look up to you!

You WILL achieve your goals!

Today is EXTRA good!

You matter!

I believe in you!

Don’t forget to do what you love 🤍

You do a great job being you!

Meaningless at the best of times, mockery at the worst. 

Countless times he had thought of changing the coffee place just to be rid of her needless pestering positivity, but it was the most convenient spot, besides, doing that would mean he had to concede a reaction to it and to him it was a sign of defeat to indulge fools. 

Still, it was nagging at him. 

This rainy Thursday she had written something particularly irritating on it. 

Not only had she greeted him with a smile “You’re back!” on the first day he had returned from a work trip to Paris.

“Yeah.”, he muttered as he waited for his coffee impatiently. 

As she handed him the cup, he glanced at it. 

People are grateful to know you 

This was reaching new depth. No one in the history of his life had ever been grateful for that. 

Not a single person. 

Even those people who were cursed to love him weren’t. They were grateful for his work and money, but not knowing him. 

Unless - 

Maybe it was the exhaustion, or simply because he couldn’t be bothered to go back to the bank to exchange his change. 

Fuck it, he thought. In a way, he was only doing himself a favor as it would be useless to send someone. 

So Tommy circled around the drive through and ordered some cinnamon roll from her colleague at the first window.

“You again, did you forget something?”, she asked with her beaming smile. 

No. 

“Ever been to Europe - “

Tommy had to squint to read her nametag. 

The name suited her, in a way, even if he hadn’t suspected it. 

“No, but I’d love to go to Rome!”, she said as she handed him the brown paper bag.

Tommy noticed the black writing from her pen, but didn’t read. 

“Cash this time.”, he said, handing her a pound bill, and then whatever had remained in his wallet from his trip to Paris. 

It wouldn’t change the world, but there was enough green and purple in there to finance a little trip for a barista. 

He shoved them into her hand unceremoniously and drove off before she had the chance to react. 

If she was smart, she’d hide it in her pocket, but if she chose to put it in the tip jar and share it with her colleagues, that was her business. 

People are grateful to know you. 

She was a fool, and Tommy couldn’t change that, but at least today he had made sure her words didn’t make her a liar. 

~

It kept raining all through the day, and into the late afternoon, through phone calls and meetings, through Michael throwing a fit and Polly being unreachable, through everything. 

“Tommy,”, Lizzie said, popping her head in through the tinted glass doors, “there’s a woman at the front desk to see you.”

“What woman?”, he asked, taking off his glasses.

“Some girl. She has something for you, something you lost and she refuses to give it to the security.”

Fucking really? 

Lizzie only shrugged. 

“She says its important. They’ve checked her. No weapons. She says she’s fine waiting downstairs until you come down.”

He had half a mind to test that theory, but then he shook his head. 

“Send her up then.”, he muttered. The only thing less appealing to him than having to deal with some stranger was having to deal with some stranger after a long day’s work. 

Five minutes later Lizzie came in again. 

“I can’t send her in here, Tommy - she’s soaking. It’ll ruin the floors.”

He closed his eyes for a moment, gathering his strength before getting up to Lizzie’s office.

It took him a moment to notice her without her hat and apron, but her smile gave her away. 

“Hi, so sorry for disturbing-”, she began. “I’ll be right off, I promise, but ah - you made a little mistake earlier.”

She really was soaking, from head to toe drenched and dripping, her clothes clinging to her skin. Still, she smiled. 

“What?”, he asked in utter disbelief. 

Reaching into her back pocket she took out the folded Euro bills he had passed her hours earlier. 

“You always give my five quid - so maybe you got the colours mixed up cause this one’s green too.”

She bit her lip in embarrassment as she handed out the bills to him. Each and every one, green, yellow and purple. 

“So yeah - this is yours.”

He only stared at her in disbelief. 

“Are you for real?”, he demanded to know.

“Yeah.”, she said immediately. “I mean, I’d like to think I’m good at my job, but I’m not - three thousand six hundred and seventy five Euros good at my job.”

When he didn’t take the money, she put it on Lizzie’s desk who was watching the interaction with wide eyes from the window. 

“Nothing we got is that good, not even the blueberry muffins.”

Tommy only stared at her. 

“Anyway, that’s all.”

She was already halfway out of Lizzie’s office, her worn Converse making squelching sounds on the floor, when Tommy called her back.

“That money was for you.”, he insisted. 

She stared at him with wide eyes.

“Oh but that’s a bit much.”

“So?”

She shook her head. 

“Well, it's too much.”

If he thought her a fool before, he considered her little more than an idiot now. 

When his disbelief kept rendering him speechless she spoke up again.

“Why don’t you put it into your charity? They’ve got a lot of flyers in the lobby and the kids probably really need it. I’ll be alright.”

Lizzie gave him a look which he tried painfully to ignore. 

“I really need to go now.”, she said with an apologetic smile, “sorry for interrupting and sorry about getting the floor all wet.”

“Can I ask you something?”, Tommy asked.

“Sure.”

“Why do you always have to smile?”

She tilted her head and frowned, but then - oh wonder - she smiled. 

“I read somewhere once about a man who wanted to kill himself - wanted to jump off of the Golden Gate bridge or something and was already on the way up but he didn’t do it ‘cause someone walked by him and wished him a good day and smiled at him. Made his day and saved his life.”

She shrugged.

“Don’t know if it’s true, but you never know I guess. Anyway, I really have to go or else you’ll have a proper puddle to remember me by.”

With that, she turned and opened the door.

“Have a great day!”, she chirped, the way she always did when he drove off, only this time it was her who was leaving. 

The End

~

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed and as always I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Taglist

Overall

@lilyrachelcassidy @jyessaminereads @chlorrox @watercolorskyy @books-livre @quarterpastmidnight  @lilyevanswhore  @polishcrazyone  @zablife  @just-a-harmless-patato  @stevie75 @flyingjosephine-blog @runnning-outof-time @cillmequick

Tommy

@knowledgefulbutterfly @babayaga67 @signorellisantichrist @lespendy @geeksareunique @look-at-the-soul

[tellthemhowihopetheyshouted]

suprize song guesses for london night 2*:

mary's song x fifteen x the best day

87 & 89; boy on the football team; works as a bridge between the other two

they all have themes of growing up, specifically going from the first verse of mary -> best day -> fifteen -> last verse of mary would kick ass imo

it would also be chronological in like, life events

country taylor

story of us x us.

both talking to the muse about how they feel after the end of a relationship

ngl i just want her to say "🎸🥀🪦the story of🪦🥀🎸 ... u-uUh-uh-us"

the albatross x peace

i can't explain how this makes sense but like

"she's the death you chose / you're in terrible danger" with "the rain is always gonna come / if you're standing with me"

how in the ancient mariner (poem where the albatross motif comes from) the rain happening both with the wedding guest and the mariner after he kills the albatross

honestly i think peace works with a lot of things on ttpd/the anthology

FOR EXAMPLE

peace x ttpd x the prophecy

goes from warning the person you're still with -> warning the person you recently separated from -> realizing you need the warning more than they do

"give you my wild / give you a child" -> "you took my ring off my middle finger and put it on the one / people put wedding rings on" -> "don't want money / just someone who / wants my company"

like, ill give you everything i have (but some things are out of my control) to you said could handle that to no one wants to be with me, i don't want to be with me, get me out of the life i built for myself

or it could be like, ill give you everything i have (but some things are out of my control) to you said you'd give me everything too, you said you were forever about this (add in the chorus of ttpd) but instead you left, and no one else knows you like i do, what are YOU going to do now to i should have taken my own advice, they were right to leave, who would want me if the trade off is this life?

tl;dr: i love my monochromatic greyscale albums

loml also fits the theme but idk if she would do 4 songs in a mashup and also the story feels pretty strong imo with just those three

london boy

she's in london

i have no further evidence

closure x imgonnagetyouback

so according to google these are in the same key and now i want to teach myself guitar so i can mash them up myself because dear god

anyway 1. she hasn't played either of them and they're both like top 3 of their albums

they also happen to be the 2 sides of my last breakup and i just now realized that...

anyway, in closure the other person is being clingy and wants the breakup to be amicable so they can feel like a good person

and in imgonnagetyouback the speaker is being ,,clingy,, or like, thinking too much about a relationship that's over

(also the person in closure always seemed to me to be in a better place emotionally + was the one to break up where as the letter sender felt like they had an ulterior motive for contacting their ex)

SO, imgonnagetyouback is written by the person who got dumped and closure is the person who broke things off and they're writing about the same relationship

peace x clean

i don't really have a story for this but

"the rain came pouring / down when i was drowning / that's when i could finally breathe" and "the rain is always gonna come / if you're standing with me"

maybe like, clean is the aftermath, written by person A, and peace is written by person B warning person A. the rain being like, person B's sadness/baggage, but also serving as the method of escape for person A

like, the thing that is person B's biggest flaw was the way person A knew to run

a real if they show you who they are believe them type story, but mostly i just like both of the rain lines in the songs

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Andrew Doyle

Published: Feb 26, 2024

[ Credit: Miriam Elia ]

Far away in the land of Sylvania, some woodland creatures have gathered to celebrate Pride. There’s a cross-dressing fox, a PVC-clad boar, a rabbit in full drag on a float. Rainbow flags and bunting abound. But just out of sight, perched above an ice-cream kiosk, are three sinister little figures in black face masks. They could be hedgehogs. They could be squirrels. One of them has a machine gun.

Isis in Sylvania was the work of the satirist Miriam Elia, a set of tableaux which was meant to be shown at the Passion for Freedom art exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London in 2015. The pieces were withdrawn after police said they might cause offence. That the gallery capitulated so easily would suggest that its self-declared “passion for freedom” was limited.

Elia’s display brilliantly lampooned our infantile response to the growing threat of Islamic terrorism, and it seems more relevant today than ever. After the police had sent emails to the gallery declaring that Isis in Sylvania was “not art” and that “all mentions of it should be removed from the promotional materials, social media etc”, Elia responded:

“The decision to censor shows that our establishment is more threatened by satire, clarity and truth than by young men willing to kill, rape and pillage in the name of Islam. Apparently my images were ‘potentially inflammatory’ to terrorists. This is the equivalent of saying an anti-Nazi cartoon in the late 1930s was offensive… to Nazis. Those who justify and protect barbaric totalitarianism, in whichever form, are on the fast track to becoming totalitarian themselves.”

The reaction of the police, of course, exemplified the very problem that Elia had been satirising in the first place.

It should be clear to everyone by now that kowtowing to the wishes of terrorists only encourages them. Last week Lindsay Hoyle, speaker of the House of Commons, was pressurised into overriding parliamentary convention because of an apparent risk to security. He spoke of “absolutely frightening” threats directed at MPs because of their reluctance to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. He also alluded to the murder of MP David Amess by an ISIS sympathiser. “I never want to go through a situation where I find a friend from any side has been murdered,” he said, “I also don’t want another attack on this House.” The word “Islamist” was not mentioned, as though not talking about the problem might make it disappear.

Hoyle is correct that the threat of violence is very real. Nobody would seek to downplay the murder of David Amess at his constituency surgery in Essex in 2021, or the beheading of schoolteacher Samuel Paty in Paris in 2020, or the massacre at the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in 2015. But our tendency to forget these atrocities, and move on as if nothing has happened, is chilling. Many of our politicians are too afraid to address the issues out of fear of being branded “islamophobic”, an absurd neologism often deployed to conflate anti-Muslim hatred with legitimate criticism of Islam.

How much reflection was there after the Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017 in which children and teenagers were slain? After the killing of Amess there was endless discussion in parliament about how we needed to crack down on social media, as though the radical Islamist responsible was motivated by online trolling rather than the creed of a medieval death-cult. We are like the woodland animals in another of Elia’s scenes, blissfully enjoying a picnic while armed and masked assailants appear on the horizon.

[ Credit: Miriam Elia ]

So while I have sympathy for Hoyle’s very human reaction to the spectre of violence, it is clear that the failure of politicians to accurately diagnose the problem is only making matters worse. Those few brave individuals who are prepared to speak out are putting themselves in danger. But with a collective effort the risk could be spread and at least become tolerable. After the Charlie Hebdo atrocity, media outlets refused to show the offending cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, but if all of them had done so simultaneously, the threat could have been diluted.

If the speaker of the House of Commons is prepared to modify parliamentary procedures due to threats from far-left cranks and radical islamists, where does this leave our democracy? It is hardly surprising that increasingly we are seeing commentators claiming that the values of liberalism cannot be sustained against this particular brand of authoritarianism. They suggest that liberals are too weak to tackle those who do not share their commitment to individual freedom.

It is true that too often exemptions have been made out of fear of causing offence to religious minorities. Police in the north of England failed to enforce the law against predominately Pakistani grooming gangs for fear of being branded “racist”. The inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing found that security guards held back from intercepting the killer for similar reasons. Sharia courts have been operating in the United Kingdom for decades and, although their rulings have no legal standing, they do hold authority within Muslim communities. And we have seen how police have overlooked some of the worst behaviour at the now regular pro-Palestine marches in London.

But this is not a weakness at the heart of liberalism; it is the failure to properly follow its principles. All branches of liberal thought – from the conservative liberalism of Friedrich Hayek to the social liberalism of John Rawls – share an understanding that the rule of law is paramount. Individual autonomy cannot be preserved if the state is unable to maintain the peace and impartially resolve the natural conflicts of human existence.

A well-intentioned commitment to multiculturalism has enabled parallel societies to flourish within the United Kingdom. In turn, this has granted authority to the most reactionary elements within religious communities. Sharia law may be an ambition for ultra-conservative theocrats, but many female and gay Muslims will not find it such an appealing prospect. We need to stop appeasing these minorities within minorities, small groups of extremists that by no means represent the average British Muslim. And this means that our parliamentarians must retain their courage, even in the face of violent threats.

More than anything, we need to be able to talk about this crisis with honesty and candour. However comforting it might be in the short term, our political class cannot go on living in their Sylvanian fantasy, wilfully oblivious to the masked elephant in the room. This denialism is a form of procrastination, putting off the inevitable for another day. The values of our liberal democracy and our hard-won rights are under threat. It’s time to grow up. 

A limited edition book of all the images in Miriam Elia’s “Isis in Sylvania” series is available to buy here. A signed limited edition print of the picnic scene is available here.

==

We have to stop being panicked when people claim to be offended.

[daytaker]

Obey Me! As the Russian Revolution (1917)

Disclaimer: This is all just for fun. I am not claiming that these characters are morally equivalent to these historical figures, some of whom did genuinely horrible things.

Vladimir Lenin - - - Solomon

After his brother was executed for revolutionary activity when Lenin was still a teenager, he became dedicated to the cause of socialism. He was single-mindedly and relentlessly pursued this goal for decades until he succeeded, at the expense of his own humanity. It was the concept of the revolution that motivated Lenin, not the individual people who might benefit from it. This justified the many innocent deaths that took place as a result of communist activities, both military and economic.

Solomon is a man of the people. He is a human for humans--no matter the cost. Generally, his view of humankind isn't concerned with the individuals in question, but for the destiny of the human world in relation to the seemingly more powerful Celestial and Demon worlds it coexists with.

Leon Trotsky - - - Satan

A wildly charismatic speaker who was perfectly willing to drop names and addresses. Young and happy to make both sacrifices and enemies in the name of the revolution, he spent some time in Siberia in exile before joining up with Lenin and others in London. He returned to Russia when the 1905 revolution began, and then was exiled to Siberia again when it fell flat. But he would not be stopped. No matter what it took, no matter how many times he would be forced to make his way back west from the tundra of Siberia, he WOULD see that the Revolution came about.

So this is probably my weakest case, which is funny because it was the first joke I made that inspired this weird little post. Of course, in the scenario I was joking about, I was comparing his failure to rally his brothers against Lucifer to Trotsky in 1905, but I mean. I'd buy Satan as a revolutionary any day of the week. Give him an individual to hate or a system to destroy and set him loose.

Also he kept getting stuck in the tundra. :/

Julius Martov - - - MC

A friend of Lenin, he became the leader of the Menshevik party when Russia's communists split into Bolsheviks (led by Lenin) and Mensheviks. The Mensheviks were the less radical group who favored more traditionally democratic methods of achieving power and were hesitant to reject dissenters and more willing to re-educate them.

Lenin remained friendly towards Martov, warning him ahead of time before Mensheviks were targeted by a political purge and trying to send him money while he lived in exile in Germany. Later in life, Lenin regretted losing Martov as an ally.

Tsar Nicholas II - - - Diavolo

Nicholas was not expecting to become the ruler of the country when he did. His father was hale and healthy, and Nicholas himself was on vacation, when his father suddenly died, leaving the throne to him. That's pretty much where the parallels stop, though. Nicholas was a cowardly and selfish ruler who struggled to empathize with his people and tended to agree with whoever spoke to him most recently.

But he's the emperor, so there's no getting around that.

Tsarina Alexandra - - - Lucifer

A German princess whose enthusiasm for her adopted Russian homeland was only matched by her subjects' dislike of her. She was extremely devoted to her family, sacrificing her reputation to keep Rasputin on board because she believed he could keep her son safe.

Grigori Rasputin - - - Barbatos

Ra-Ra-Rasputin, lover of the Russian queen, the all-knowing mystic counselor to the tsar, whose devotion was absolute, who was extremely tricky to kill, and who was said to prophesy his own death and the fall of the Romanovs.... Most of those things are untrue, but history is partly about what happened and partly about what people believe happened.

Felix Yusopov - - - Mephistopheles

Yusupov was the ringleader of the group of nobles who murdered Rasputin. Horrified by his cousin the tsar's public reliance on the clownish peasant Rasputin and wanting to uphold the power of the nobility over the rest of the citizenry, Yusupov and several friends invited Rasputin to his estates and killed him. Later, Yusupov capitalized on his reputation as the person who killed Rasputin, who was reviled by royalists, communists, and everyone in between, to escape violence from the Red Army. He also turned the tale of Rasputin's murder into a fishing story, where the fish became bigger and harder to kill with each retelling.

Alexander Kerensky - - - Does anybody really, really hate Barbatos? Or is there another angle that will make someone? Come on, fellow Obey Me! history nerds, I need your help.

Kerensky was the leader of the provisional government which was in power from the fall of the tsar in February until the October revolution by the Bolsheviks. He was prime minister from May to September, and not a particularly successful one.

Hating Rasputin was normal for people from all political ideologies, but Kerensky really hated Rasputin. He blamed him for Russia's involvement in and humiliating failures in World War I, urged assassins to kill him, and, after the February Revolution, even dug up his grave and burned his body.

(Yes, I recognize that there is a giant omission here, but I am not going to frivolously designate an anime boy as "Stalin".)

[ukrfeminism]

Three female MPs have been given taxpayer-funded bodyguards and cars as concerns over politicians’ safety are escalating.

The women – who have not been named but include representatives of the Conservative and Labour parties – have had their security upgraded as MPs are said to be “petrified” at the abuse they are facing.

In an overhaul of safety measures in place for MPs, Security Minister Tom Tugendhat has been working with the Home Office, the police and the parliamentary authorities, as well as the royal and VIP executive committee (Ravec), a secretive organisation responsible for the security of senior politicians and the royal family.

The new process, launched following a referral by police or parliamentary authorities, comes as the threat level faced by British politicians has shot up in recent weeks.

A senior security source told The Sunday Times: “Many MPs are petrified by the abuse they are facing.”

The newspaper understands the three female MPs have been given close protection from private companies, as well as chauffeur-driven cars, which are usually only limited to senior members of the cabinet and the leader of the opposition.

“We’ve taken a front-footed approach to co-ordinating action against the people or suspects that intelligence suggests most threaten MPs,” said a senior Whitehall source.

Other MPs’ security is also under review if they are deemed at risk, while, for those not needing the highest level of protection, thousands of security measures have been put in place in London and at hundreds of constituency offices and homes. 

Private security operatives have been used at thousands of members’ surgeries and hundreds of events, alongside a police presence if required. MPs also have access to security advice, including via advisers based throughout the UK.

Ravec’s membership and decisions are mostly opaque, although insiders do say it has a budget of hundreds of millions of pounds.

It comes after the Palestine Solidarity Campaign defended the right to lobby MPs “in large numbers”, amid reports the group wanted so many protesters to turn up that Parliament would “have to lock the doors”.

The group said the issue of MPs’ security was “serious” but should not be used to “shield MPs from democratic accountability”.

The organisation’s director Ben Jamal said thousands of people were “shamefully” denied entry into Parliament on Wednesday as they attempted to lobby MPs to vote in favour of a ceasefire in Gaza in what he described was one of the largest physical lobbies of parliament in history.

The Times reported that Mr Jamal told a crowd of demonstrators in the build-up to the protest on Wednesday: “We want so many of you to come that they will have to lock the doors of Parliament itself.”

Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Commons Speaker who has faced calls to resign after going against convention during the SNP’s Opposition Day debate on a ceasefire, said his motivation for widening Wednesday’s discussion was fuelled by concern about MPs’ security because of intimidation suffered by some parliamentarians.

Mr Jamal said the group “does not call” for protests outside MPs’ homes and believed parliamentarians have a right “to have their privacy respected”.

The government’s political violence tsar has said police should have the powers to “disperse” protests around Parliament, MPs’ offices and council chambers that they deem to be threatening.

Baron Walney, the Government’s adviser on political violence and disruption, said on Friday that the “aggressive intimidation of MPs” by “mobs” was being mistaken for an “expression of democracy”.

The crossbench peer, who in December submitted a Government-commissioned review into how actions by political groups can “cross into criminality and disruption to people’s lives”, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he was calling for police forces to act “uniformly in stopping” protest outside MPs’ homes.

[onsitecarservicing-blog]

Finding the Perfect Voice for Your Event: How to Book a Speaker with an Event Speaker Agency

A successful event hinges on many elements, and a captivating speaker can significantly elevate the experience for your audience. However, finding the right speaker can be a daunting task. Juggling theme selection, budget constraints, and speaker availability can quickly become overwhelming. This is where an event speaker agency, particularly an event speaker agency, can be your saving grace.

Choosing the Right Speaker:

The cornerstone of a successful speaker selection lies in understanding your event's goals and target audience. What message do you want to convey? Who are you trying to reach? Are you aiming to inspire, educate, or spark conversation? Answering these questions helps narrow down the speaker pool and ensures a good fit.

Once you've defined your event's purpose, consider the speaker's expertise and experience. A speaker specializing in mental health awareness wouldn't be the most fitting choice for a business conference on marketing strategies. Look for speakers with a proven track record of engaging audiences and a strong background in the relevant field. Remember, consider your budget throughout the process to ensure a realistic choice.

The Benefits of Partnering with a Speaker Agency:

While searching for "mental health speakers" or "motivational speakers in the UK" online might yield some results, partnering with a reputable speaker agency UK offers a multitude of benefits:

Expertise and time-saving: Event speaker agencies maintain extensive networks of speakers across diverse fields. Their knowledge of speaker availability, expertise, and fees saves you valuable time and effort in research and negotiation.

Personalized guidance: A good speaker agency will take the time to understand your event's needs and suggest speakers who align with your vision and budget. They can also offer valuable insights into speaker selection and event planning based on their experience.

Logistics management: From initial contact to final event execution, a speaker agency handles the logistics, including travel arrangements, contracts, and speaker fees. This allows you to focus on other crucial aspects of your event.

Booking a Speaker with an Event Speaker Agency:

The process of booking a speaker is streamlined and efficient with an event speaker agency. Simply:

Contact the agency: Most agencies have easily accessible contact information on their websites, allowing you to call or fill out online forms.

Provide event details: Share your event's theme, target audience, desired speaker expertise, and budget with the agency.

Speaker selection: Based on your requirements, the agency will present a shortlist of suitable speakers. You can then review profiles, watch videos (if available), and make an informed decision.

Negotiation and booking: The agency will handle negotiations with the chosen speaker on your behalf and guide you through the booking process.

Conclusion:

Finding the right speaker for your event doesn't have to be a stressful experience. Partnering with a speaker agency UK provides access to a wider speaker pool, valuable expertise, and streamlined booking processes. By utilizing the agency's resources and guidance, you can ensure that your event features the perfect voice to captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression.

Remember, a speaker agency can be your trusted partner in creating a truly memorable and impactful event, whether you're seeking motivational speakers in London, mental health speakers, or experts in any other specific area.

[aylce101]

The Inspiring Journey of Mike Pilavachi 

Mike Pilavachi is a name synonymous with dynamic Christian leadership and youth ministry.  Originally starting the Soul Survivor movement, his impact goes much beyond the United Kingdom and transforms communities all around. This blog explores the life, work, and legacy of Mike Pilavachi, a man whose love of God and commitment to young people have profoundly changed the contemporary Christian scene.

Early Years and calling in life

Mike Pilavachi, who was born in 1958, grew up amid North London's rich cultural mix. Early in life, he was searching for meaning and yearning a closer relationship with God. During his teenage years, this search brought him personally to meet Jesus Christ, a turning point that would determine his path of future service.

Pilavachi started his path into ministry by helping his neighbourhood church, where he soon grew sensitive for young work. Understanding the particular difficulties and demands that young people experience, he felt a great calling to commit his life to guiding their faith and supporting them to negotiate the complexity of life with a basis in Christ.

Opening Soul Survivor

Mike Pilavachi co-founded Soul Survivor in 1993 as a Christian group seeking to equip, inspire, and empower youth in their faith. Originally a small gathering of a few hundred young people, the movement rapidly expanded into a major force inside the Christian community.

Soul Survivor is most well-known for its yearly summer celebrations, which attracted thousands of young adults and teenagers from all around the country and beyond. These gatherings fused modern worship, dynamic instruction with a strong focus on the work of the Holy Spirit. Pilavachi wanted to create a place where young people might really and transformingly meet God.

Influence and Expansion

Soul Survivor developed into a worldwide movement under Mike Pilavachi, not only a set of events. With the same heart and vision, the celebrations grew to include Australia, South Africa, and the Netherlands as well as others. Young viewers connected strongly with Pilavachi's relevant teaching approach, which was sometimes mixed with humor and personal anecdotes, so making the message of Jesus interesting and approachable.

Soul Survivor's influence stands mostly on its dedication to social justice and community service. Pilavachi has always underlined that a sincere faith in Jesus should show up in doable deeds of love and kindness to others. Initiatives like the Soul Action program, which urged young people to participate in diverse social justice projects both locally and abroad, sprang from this ethos.

Beyond Soul Survivor, Mike Pilavachi has established himself as an author and speaker as well. His books, including "Wasteland to Wonderland" and "Everyday Supernatural," provide useful advice on leading a Spirit-filled life and discovering meaning in the ordinary. Many people have been motivated by these writings to seek a closer relationship with God and to view their daily life as chances for divine meetings.

Pilavachi's speaking events have taken him all around the globe where he keeps sharing his love of Jesus and his heart for young people. He is a sought-after speaker at conferences, churches, and events because of his grounded approach and capacity to relate to many audiences.

Legacy and Mentoring:

Mike Pilavachi's ministry has been much enhanced by his mentoring work. Many of the well-known Christian leaders and worship musicians of today, including Matt Redman, Tim Hughes, and Beth Croft, attribute their spiritual and professional growth to Pilavachi. His financial support of these people has improved the larger Christian community in addition to their individual lives.

Pilavachi has moved recently to guarantee Soul Survivor's mission's continuity and sustainability. Understanding the need of producing the next generation of leaders, he has been deliberate in helping younger leaders to assume more responsibility inside the company.

Difficulties and Divisiveness

There are obstacles on every road, and Mike Pilavachi's path has not been without questions. Allegations of unsuitable behavior emerged in 2023, which prompted Soul Survivor and the Church of England to launch an internal inquiry Pilavachi withdrew from his leadership during this time to let the claims be thoroughly scrutinized.

For Pilavachi and the Soul Survivor community, the research and its results were momentous. The process underlined the need of openness and honesty in leadership even while it revealed areas needing change and responsibility. Pilavachi said he was sorry for any damage done and underlined his will to preserve the values and ideas he has long promoted.

The Journey Ahead

Notwithstanding the difficulties, Mike Pilavachi's influence and legacy are still very much felt. Many still find inspiration and direction in his contributions to youth ministry and relentless dedication to helping young people meet Jesus. The basis set by Pilavachi will surely guide Soul Survivor's future activities and influence.

When one considers Mike Pilavachi's path, it is clear that a great love for God and a sincere wish to see young people grow in their faith define his life and ministry. The Christian society has been permanently changed by his capacity to relate to and motivate the following generation.

One thing is abundantly evident as the narrative of Mike Pilavachi develops: his commitment to serving God and others will inspire and influence many for years to come. Pilavachi's influence is evidence of the strength of a life totally given to God's call whether via his teachings, writings, or continuous work of Soul Survivor.

Finish

The path of Mike Pilavachi is a potent reminder of the influence one person can have when they follow their calling with integrity and fervor. Pilavachi has touched innumerable lives by means of Soul Survivor, his writings, and his mentoring, so guiding young people toward Christ's purpose and identity. His legacy of faith, service, and leadership endures even if challenges and controversies have tried his ministry. Looking ahead, the seeds Mike Pilavachi planted will continue to blossom and inspire next generations to follow a closer relationship with God and to carry out their faith in significant ways.

Mike Pilavachi's narrative reflects the transforming power of the gospel and the ongoing value of making investments in the next generation. All those who want to use love and grace of Jesus Christ to change the world find inspiration in his life.

[bluecichlid]

Threads of Power: Who Is the Master of the Veil?

I have three theories: one obvious, one fun but no real evidence, and one that IMO would be amazing but is probably bat-shit crazy.

Spoilers ...

Oren Rosec

This one feels obvious. Maybe a bit too obvious.

The narrative introduces Oren Rosec when Alucard meets him in the pleasure garden right before his rendezvous with the White Rose.  The White Rose meets the Master of the Veil right after Alucard leaves.  So, same place, same time.  

And the narrative spends too much time on Oren for him not to be a player in some way.  The bit about his sister possibly being dead (“was”) is clearly setting something up.  

The Master of the Veil is an Ostra or a Vestra.  In the meeting with Berras and Ezril, the Master is described as having “burnished” hair.  (Ciara says dark at one point in her POV, not sure what that means).  Oren is blond.  In both the Master’s appearances, there is a lot of emphasis on the eyes not being visible, implying it is significant.  Oren has distinctive all black eyes.  Alucard sees a blue thread by Oren, signifying water powers.  The Master uses ice.  Berras describes the Master as being young.  Oren is young.

So, lots of signs pointing to Oren, but so far he’s not a very interesting choice.  Of course, we may get a lot more of him in the next books and if he is the Master, I’m sure Schwab will make him great.  

But there are a couple of more speculative possibilities:

2. Kell’s identical twin brother

Pure speculation and there isn’t much to support this. 

The biggest reason for it is the narrative - it opens up so many possibilities.  Lots of opportunity for “the man in the iron mask” swashbuckling and identity theft fun.   Someone from Kell’s family would be a lot more interesting in terms of the plot than a random Vestra we aren’t yet invested in.  Kell’s biological family is major unfinished business from the first trilogy.  Plus, the Master seems to hold a grudge against the royal family.  If the Master is Oren, why would he?  Whereas a brother of Kell could have plenty of reason to hate Rhy and the royals.  

Physically, there is nothing much to exclude a brother of Kell’s, but nothing much pointing to it.  “Burnished” hair could mean red, but much more likely blond.  If the hair is “burnished” and dark, it could be auburn.  

The use of the mask is interesting.  Kell’s identical twin would need to conceal his face, not just his identity.  

Reasons against: if Ciara is right that the Master is nobility, Kell would have had to have been born at least an Ostra.  That seems like a stretch.  Kell’s parents could have been anyone, but in A Life Erased, they certainly don’t act like nobility and they obviously aren’t rich.  And if his family was powerful enough to have ambitions for the throne and to be accepted by chummy with Ezril and Berras, it is hard to imagine them voluntarily giving up Kell.

Minor point, but the Master speaks Veskan, but like someone taught the language, not like a native speaker.  Kell’s father was at least part Veskan, so the family would be more likely to be native speakers. 

Also, the Master shows no real concern for Kell dying.  He’s back at the palace at that point, so if Berras’s plan works, Kell would be targeted along with Rhy and his family.  “I take it no one should be spared.”  There is really no mention of Kell at all, and if the Master was motivated by revenge for the loss of his brother, you’d think there would be something. So family of Kell is a stretch.

The last is the one that is really out there.

3. Astrid Dane.

She died at the end of the first book - or did she?  Astrid was possessing someone in the Red London palace right before her death.  She seems to have been wearing the possession pendant with Holland’s blood on it when she died.  She carried on a conversation with Kell early in the book while still in control of Rhy.  If she was controlling someone when she died, part of her could still be alive in that person.  And that person could have been Oren Rosec, in the palace as a guest at Rhy’s twentieth birthday party.

The big argument against would be that Alucard didn't see any suspicious magic threads on Oren. But there are ways to get around that. Maybe possession wouldn't be obvious if there is no link to a living person.

If Oren was possessed, his sister’s death makes sense.  They live away from the capital.  Their father was dying at Rhy’s wedding.  Nobody would be left who knew the original Oren well.

There is a sadistic element to the Master:

She flinched, but his grip tightened, seeming to enjoy her discomfort.  She’d handled enough patrons to recognize the ones who took pleasure in another’s pain.

And when discussing the killing of the royal family:

The humor in his voice was clear.  “I do wish I could be there. It is only so much fun to watch.”

Looking at Astrid’s first appearance in Kell’s POV in DSOM:  Astrid had draped herself over one of the two thrones… “  There are parallels to the Master’s first appearance in Ciara’s POV in FTOP: She noticed the way he draped himself across the chair …

Kell in DSOM: ..her hand slid past the paper and closed around his wrist … lightning danced up Kell’s arm, followed almost instantly by pain.  Ciara in FTOP: ... his hand closed around her wrist, his fingers burning cold.

Kell in DSOM: Kell did not realize she had risen from her seat until he felt her there beside him, running a finger down the silver buttons of his coat.  Ciara in FTOP: …the Master of the Veil was right there, no longer behind the desk but in front of it, in front of her … and later It left an awful, eerie feeling, like his fingers sliding over her skin.

Finally, on the narrative, Astrid as a villain draws Red and White London together, and has plenty of unfinished business with the MCs, particularly Holland.  

None of this is the smoking gun, and who knows what Schwab is really planning.  Whatever it is, I’m sure it will be great. 

[jigglypuff1994]

past grievances

Chapter 1 - All answers lead back to Lila

Felix stared at the rusted metal door, trying to push down the bile working its way up his throat. The air permeated his nostrils with an unpleasant mixture of vomit, stale cigarettes and sour urine. He was itching to grab the handkerchief in his blazer and hold it over his nose. If it smelled like this out here, what would it smell like inside? 

Holding his breath, he opened the door slowly. A waft of cigarette smoke bellowed through the open door, exhaling into the Parisian night air. Like an omen, he felt as though he were walking into the dragon’s den, trying to find a jewel guarded by a sleeping, simmering threat. 

He still had time to turn around and walk away. There was this small fracture of himself that told him he shouldn’t piss off the most unhinged person in Paris. 

He walked into the dimly lit lounge. The speakers crackled with old rock hits from the seventies and eighties. The floorboards were rotted, sticky wooden floorboards, creaking with every step he took. The carpeted walls were dingy and yellowed from the smokey air of the bar’s patrons. There were a few patrons lingering in the booths off to the side, talking in hushed conversations. Most of the drinkers were playing cards or shooting pool in the back area. They reflected the bar they lingered in, haggard and torn by life with little care for themselves, mingling in the rotting filth they’ve succumbed themselves to. 

Why did he come here? Why did he think he’d get answers in a place like this? 

Because the fox said that all clues lead to her.

Sitting on a metal stool at the bar, Lila Rossi shot back one of the caramel colored liquor shooters that sat in front of her. Her hair was a dark chestnut filled with split ends, pooling all around her shoulders. Her once sharp green eyes now dull with all the life drained out of her from years in federal prison. Her bony fingers were lingering around her next shooter, toying with the outer rim. Her fingernails were unmanicured and unpolished, showing years of neglect. She wore a slinky orange Y2K print halter dress with a deep, plunging neckline and some strappy brown faux leather heels. 

Felix took a seat next to her. In a prior life, Lila was never someone Felix would ever feel pity for. She was always too prude for those kinds of pleasantries. He had to admit, something about seeing her disheveled and haggard form sitting here made him almost feel sorry for the woman sitting next to him. The once twisted, maniacal villain that Felix came to know, now reduced to a drunken, poor imitation of the woman before, a ghost of her prior life.

While Felix himself was a villain at one point, other than scoffs and odd looks every once in a while, he went on to create a life for himself outside of his personal transgressions. He had a wife and a daughter. He lived in London in a warm, comfortable home. He owned a successful business. He moved on. He wasn’t constantly plagued by a stupid choice he made in his teens and early adulthood. 

Looking at Lila was a bitter reminder that his life could have turned out much different than it is today. Another reminder that Adrien saved him in more ways than he could ever repay. 

Another motivator to find out who killed Adrien Agreste. 

“I knew one of you would stoop down to my level at some point.” Lila’s tired, mirthless voice croaked. She pushed the shooter she was toying with over to him. 

Felix met her eyes, the message they were sending conflicted with the coffee-stained teeth she displayed proudly with a bitter smile. 

Raising the shooter in front of her and nodding at Felix like an old friend, she sarcastically cheered, “Bottoms up.” She opened her chapped lips and threw the liquid back, swallowing it down without a grimace. 

Felix nodded back at her, took his own shooter and threw it back, swallowing the liquid down and tasting the familiar cinnamon flavor of too many drunken nights in his university days. His nose wrinkled at the thought of an oncoming migraine caused by the cheap alcohol. 

Lila hummed as she thought. “So, what brings you here, hmm? Are you expecting some answers for our recently fallen black cat and pig?” She asked while flagging down the bartender for another drink, tapping the tip of her finger on the bartop. 

Felix’s anger built with him, but he quickly swallowed it down, not giving into her bait. This is what she has always done, stroked the wrong nerve, trying to provoke. “Straight to the point as always,” He calmly replied, keeping his tone even. 

“I believe in consistency. Unlike some people. Too many secrets.” She smugly replied, bringing the freshly opened bottle of beer to her lips. 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Felix inquired with a quirk of his brow.

Lila shrugged. “ I mean that those who keep their secrets don’t end up dead. Isn’t that right, Argos. ” 

"I’m retired," he briskly replied. He could feel Duusu ruffle in his breast pocket. The brooch was pinned neatly under his tie, hidden away from the world - just another way he was like his uncle, he hated to admit. 

"No one actually retires. That’s how Adrien met his end, isn’t it?"

Felix’s head whipped to hers, searching her face for another lie. 

Lila huffed a laugh, bringing her finger over to caress his arm up and down. 

Felix ripped his arm away. He felt disgusted by her presence. Why did he come here? She didn’t know what she was talking about. Adrien retired. He and Marinette started a family. He wouldn't pursue the hero's life again. He pushed back from the bar and started to get up when Lila hooked her unpolished talons into his sleeve. 

“I know what everybody’s thinking, but it wasn’t my fault,” Lila pressed, batting her cheap, glued-on lashes at him.  

"Then who’s fault was it?" Felix snapped lowly, gripping his hands tightly on the bar. “Because no one seems to have answers as to what happened to him!” 

“Look between the shifting waves. There you’ll meet Ra. You’ll find the answers there.” Lila whispered, her eyes conveying a desperation, one only seen in a threatened animal. 

Felix furrowed his brows, thinking about the words she said. Making a mental note to remember the riddle, he nodded.

She released her tight grip, saying in a normal voice again, “I hope you won’t mind paying my tab, Fe. Old bugs like us have to stick together.” She cooed. 

Felix dropped a fifty euro on the bar as he corrected her, “You mean buds.”

Lila shot him a knowing look, saying airly, “That, too.”

Felix left the bar, hoping he’d never have to go back. He didn’t receive the answers he wanted, but he gained something else. He knew Lila wasn’t behind the attacks. Another thought tickled the back of his mind, one that made his spine shiver. 

The real question is: who was Lila Rossi scared of? 

[official-wonho]

No One Is Doing Kpop Fashion Better (or Sexier) Than Wonho

The crush-worthy idol talks about his new album "Bittersweet," his love of his fans, and his Halloween costume.

“Nightwing cosplay!” Wonho says, excitedly. “My fans recommended that for Halloween, I dress up as Nightwing from DC Comics, so I’m actually searching for a costume.” It’s that happily accommodating charisma — paired with an undeniable talent and unapologetic sexiness — that has earned kpop idol Wonho millions of worldwide devotees.

It’s easy to forget that Wonho (born Lee Ho-seok) is a global superstar when you’re talking to him. Sure, he has that same honey-dipped voice that you’ve heard blasted through stadium speakers and on a million fan-made YouTube compilations. And, yes, those are the broader-than-a-refrigerator shoulders you’ve swooned over on Instagram, but when you’re with Wonho one-on-one, he makes you feel like you’re with a good friend. His warmth and soft-spoken humility is palpable even through a pair of translators and the expanse of time zones between us (when we talk, his late night is my early morning).

Let me warn the newcomers: you are not ready for Wonho’s aesthetic. There aren’t a lot of men who could pull off jeans with thigh cutouts but, then again, not a lot of men are Wonho.

With his stage costumes, Wonho has taken dopamine dressing to a new level: Mesh, sequins, vinyl — all are fair game. “For my stages and my performances, I really think hard about trying to show sides of myself that I haven’t shown before,” he explains.

Thanks to that drive to constantly innovate, he’s managed to bring a new brand of unapologetically provocative sexiness to the kpop world. Wonho’s stagewear closet is filled with backless blazers, leather harnesses, peep-show jeans, fishnet shirts, and strategically unzipped turtlenecks, peeled back to reveal a set of abs that would make Thor do a double take. That risque wardrobe (and general aversion to wearing a shirt during concerts) means he can send the internet into a meltdown with just one performance.

“It is true. I started to work out for my physical health, but it has turned into somewhat of an aesthetic,” he tells me as the topic circles to his Instagram. Wonho’s grid is dotted with shirtless selfies and thirst traps worthy of a global idol between charmingly normal pics of him drinking coffee and sightseeing. “My physique,” he says, coyly, of the thirst traps. “I can show it to [my fans] every once in a while, because I like seeing their reactions.”

When I ask what it’s like to be known in the kpop community as a sartorial boundary-pusher, Wonho is happy to take on the title, but firmly unbothered. ”First, thank you for recognizing me as a fashion icon,” he says, with a shy smile. “I don’t really think of boundaries when I am thinking of my own fashion. If it’s a fit for the concept or the style [of the performance], I’ll just try it without any hesitation.” No boundaries, no hesitation, all confidence. That’s Wonho in a heartbeat.

Off-stage, Wonho’s preferences favor comfort. Sweats and Jordans. T-shirts and Vans. Easy styles that can take him from the studio to the gym to rehearsals to the airport. That casual, off-duty wardrobe is tweaked slightly when he’s continent-hopping. This past summer, Wonho launched his FACADE tour — his first solo sprint across Europe. The opportunity to perform for his fans there also gave him a chance to switch up his fashion

“When I’m in London, I tend to style my outfits more clean-cut and dandy. Whereas, in Korea, I style them more comfortably and stylish.” And, as any jet-setting idol will tell you, practicality will trump fashion when the weather turns. “And, more recently, in Japan, my schedule was just packed and it rained all throughout my stay there, so I wore very comfortable clothing and raincoats and stuff.”

Wonho’s fans can be cited as one of the sources of inspiration behind his whiplash-inducing fashion, but it’s clear that they’re also the motivation behind his music, as well. The rankings, the cynics, and all the other distractions that clog up your nerves and can kill an artist’s creativity — those are the obstacles that Wonho chooses, staunchly, to ignore. Instead, he only wants to make his fans proud.

“My goal [as an artist] isn’t really chart-oriented,” he tells me with the help of those translators picking up the more nuanced questions. “I don’t really focus on getting any sort of ranking on the chart but, rather, I want to make music for as many years as I can. I also want to go on a world tour to meet WENEEs who are in all parts of the world.”

The self-chosen moniker of his fans, WENEEs — the name equal parts silly and sweet — is short-hand for “WE are NEw Ending” or “WE NEEd.” Both phrases are representative of the symbiotic relationship between the artist and the fans who have been supporting him from the beginning, and will be there until the end. “[With this album,] I am making a promise to my fans to always be by my side, as they have always been.”

His latest project dropped earlier this month, a highly anticipated second single album named Bittersweet. It was a deeply personal effort for Wonho who doesn’t just sing his music but writes and produces as well, though he’s quick to share the credit with his team. “[I’m always] getting tons of support from all the staff and all the good people around me so I’m able to prepare and produce my albums very conveniently,” says the humble idol. “There are a lot of teams involved with the album production process so it comes out very smoothly.”

The new album’s tracks, “On & On” (a smooth, pulsing dance track featuring Korean rapper YUNHWAY) and “Don’t Regret” (a powerful, tender ballad), are about all-consuming emotions and the Wonho-penned lyrics are as vulnerable as a baby bunny. What helps him to write and perform music this honest and personal is, in part, his impressive multilingualism. “It’s easier to express those kinds of emotions because I can use two languages, Korean and English,” Wonho says of his skill set, which also includes Japanese. “I can use both languages to express my thoughts and emotions.” The tracks add to Wonho’s consistently introspective and sentimental music catalog, making Bittersweet another compelling treasure from the solo star.

And then there’s that beautiful Wonho duality again, right there in the title of his album: Bittersweet. “I wanted to express a mix of emotions that are bitter, yet sweet. Exciting, yet depressing,” explains Wonho. “I believe our lives are filled with different emotions and they shape how we are.”

That paradox of his album’s title and theme is an echo of his whole career and strengths as an idol. That duality is why the entire world has a crush on him. Wonho can do it all. He has a voice that is lovely and dreamy when paired with pulsing dance beats, but also soaring and gorgeous when singing full-chested ballads. He has an off-stage boyfriend aesthetic but is also an easy-to-worship glam god on-stage. Sexy and cute. A Disney face with a Marvel body, as fellow idol Jessi described him. But who needs superhero movies anyways when you have the adrenaline rush of Wonho’s duality?

Source: instyle.com

[wetsteve3]

When Claire Lomas was paralysed from the chest down when she fell from her horse during an eventing competition in 2007 she never could have believed that one day she would ride a lap of the North West 200 course on a motorcycle.

Claire’s life was turned upside down when she was just 27. Her accident saw the Englishwoman lose her sport and a career as a chiropractor. Her relationship also fell apart and Claire felt she was losing her identity before she began to focus on rebuilding her life by pushing the boundaries of what she could achieve to new and unforeseeable levels.

In the years since her life changing accident Claire has raised over £850,000 for charity through various challenges, including taking 17 days to complete the 2012 London Marathon in a special robotic suit. A mum, an author and a motivational speaker, she was awarded an MBE in 2017.

Alongside her charity endeavours, Claire has also qualified as a pilot and learned to ride motorbikes, eventually gaining her race licence. Having never ridden a motorcycle prior to her accident, getting to grips with two wheels was particularly challenging for Claire as she has no movement or sensation from the chest down. Taking on her charity lap of the North West 200 roads course on May 11 will present another new challenge as she has previously limited her outings to tracks like Donington Park.

“I am absolutely honoured to have the opportunity to take on this incredible challenge.” Claire says.

“It will be very different to being on a track, which is my only experience. I’m raising money for Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation so that one day paralysis can be reversible.”

Claire’s Suzuki has been adapted with straps to stop her knees from flapping in the wind and toe clips securing her feet to the foot plates. A special shifter allows her to change gears using only her hands. Her husband and father are part of the team, helping to launch her at the start of her lap and catching her when she returns.

“Straight after my accident I thought life was pretty much over.” Claire says. “Then I started to explore what I was able to do and found new doors to open but I never thought I would be riding a motorbike around the roads in Northern Ireland. It’s both scary and exciting in equal measure!”

“What Claire has achieved is remarkable and we will be delighted to welcome her to the North West 200 as she takes on a new challenge in her journey for a very worthwhile cause.” Mervyn Whyte of the NW200 said.

“Her determination and courage are an inspiration to everyone and Claire will have the support of every North West 200 fan during her lap of the famous 8.9 mile Triangle circuit in May.”