#much like housing and food. we have the capacity to offer these things. but then we wont make tons of money so...

[maryonmega]

You didn't ask

It's an idea that came to me in a dream and I posted on AO3 a few days ago: Vaugardians have the capacity to turn into dragons. There's some brainstormed lore too, but I'd rather leave it open for any future additions.

I call it Draconic Vaugard AU!

Again, thank you, @chimerical-daydreams for the designs

You wake up feeling like shit.

No surprise there. You heard the Head Housemaiden tell you to rest and not use craft for a while, then used craft again not even plural hours later.

Not that you regret it.

Your body is stiff and sore, but you can still move your neck enough to look out the window. It's clearly well into morning now. The House doesn't loom over you like a haunted castle anymore. The birds once frozen mid flight now cross the sky as free as nature intented.

On the bed besides yours, Odile is already awake and flipping through the familytale you got her two days ago. Her craft exaustion is not as bad as yours. She didn't loop through time hundreds of times then cut through the House alone then turned into a wish craft titan. But she did stop you from looping. That took strenght.

You hear footsteps up the stairs. Careful, but still noisy.

"Frin!"

Despite the soreness, you smile.

"Bonbon."

They're not as careful now, marching to beside the bed you're in. They have a tray in hands, and an excited look on their face.

"The tall lady said you need to rest, so I didn't wake you up, but you still have to get your strenght back, so you better eat too! But Dile also said you must have had my snacks a bunch of times, so I made a breakfast I'm sure you didn't have in forever school!"

My, someone's hyper. Not that you can blame them. You have to get better, than you all can get on your way to Bambouche.

"Thank you, snack leader, for providing."

Bonbon nods with pride, and puts the tray on your lap.

You try to sit up. Your arms give in before you can rise too much.

"Oh! Right! I have to tell everyone you're awake!"

You hear them rush down. The weight of the tray a tempting thing over your lap. What's this? Punishment?

Odile smirks at you. She must have noticed. Traitor.

"Good morning."

"Please, spare me. I just woke up."

"I haven't said anything. Yet." She marks and closes the book, her attention fully on you now "How are you feeling, Siffrin?"

"Like I got stomped on by many horses."

Odile nods, serious.

"Thank you for your honesty. Please be honest with the person taking care of your medication, too."

"I only lied two times!"

"You've been like this for a day and a half. And spent half of that time unconscious."

She's got you there.

There's footsteps again. More than one set this time. Bonnie bursts into the room like it's a competition. You're kind of scared they'll hit their face on the foot of the bed for a moment but they stop on time. Mira and Isa come in at a more reasonable speed.

"See? They're still awake! And tried to move, too!"

"Already?" Mira looks actually glad. Good "You really recover fast, Siffrin. Uhn, don't force yourself to get good faster, though. You might strain yourself."

You try to give her a thumbs up. Your arm is sore.

"Need help, buddy?"

Embarrassing~

You still nod. Isa gets beside you to help prop you up and sit against the headboard. You can see your breakfast now. No wonder there was good weight! Bread, jam, juice, cut fruit, even a couple chausson aux pommes. Someone takes the "regain strenght" expression seriously!

"Thank you." You offer your best smile and scoop up a piece of peach with the spoon "You're a peach."

You got a laught. Morning victory.

Chomp!

Stars, without the smell of burning sugar lingering all the time you can actually taste food!

"So, Siffrin..." Mirabelle sits on the bed, opposite side from Bonnie "Where are we?"

"In the clocktower."

"What happened two days ago?"

"We unfroze Vaugard."

"And why are you and Madame in bed rest?"

"Craft exaustion."

"He is conscious. Good!"

She claps her hands and straights her back.

"Am I losing something?"

On the other bed, Odile put the familytale on the headboard.

"You see, we intent to-"

"WE'RE GOING TO NILLE AS SOON AS YOU CAN STAND!"

"Boniface!"

"Sorry! But yes! You just need to get to stand again!"

"Well, being able to stand is just the The reference. Walking would be much better." Isa adds, and gives a half chuckle.

You swallow your food and look at him just to have a focus point.

You know just because you can walk doesn't mean you should walk long distances, specially as soon as you're able. Sure, if your friends want to go as soon as possible you can endure it, but...

"Isn't that a little risky?"

"A little, but it's faster." You can't argue with Mirabelle on that "That's why I think you should go on Isabeau." Wait, what? "He's bigger and his shape makes it easier to get a grip lying down. You can get some rest! I guess? You should probably do a test first? I know Madame Odile will be better too so she can go on me."

What?

Beside you, Isa nods.

"Right... Are you really okay with flying, Madame?"

What????????

"I'll survive, I guess. As long as Mirabelle doesn't mind getting more ties than a race horse."

"He, I'll survive too."

"Wait? What?! Fly?!?!"

Bonnie pouts.

"Of course we'll fly! The birds unfroze too, so it's safe now!"

"No! I mean, I know, just-!" You take a bite of one of the apple pastries. Delicious "How are you even going to do that?! And you're talking like it's no big deal!"

"Because, it's not?" Mira is looking at you with confusion "Wait, you don't know?"

"Don't know what?"

"We can turn into dragons."

...

You pinch your arm with nail.

Ow.

You're still here.

Wait a minute!

"You're pulling a prank on me!"

Odile opened her mouth. Before she spoke, Bonbon took a leap back, and-

It wasn't done in a flash, but, once it was, Bonbon was like a big eel with wings.

You think you're going crazy.

"Wh- I- You- Why didn't any of you do that all this time?!"

This time Isa responded.

"We didn't need to? Sure, flying is fast traveling, but you saw the birds, we didn't want to risk it. Tents and inns made to accomodate dragon forms are too expensive for long traveling. And, you saw Bonbon just now, it's not exactly puf and done, so not a good option when ambushed by an angry sadness."

This makes so much sense it's somehow making you feel crazier.

Little dragon Bonbon landed beside your legs on the bed, legless body slithering over the sheets. They look adorable.

"Why didn't anyone tell me?"

Mira looks embarrassed. Oops, you said something wrong.

"I thought you knew." She looks away, fidgeting with her fingers.

How would you know when nobody tells you?????

"And, it's not like we talk about this all the time. It's weird!"

When your bafflement wears off, half of the breakfast is gone.

"How is it weird to talk about being dragons?!"

"Well Sif, think." Isa places a hand behind your back "It's just how Vaugardians are. Just another part of our lives. It would be like going to a place where people are like "Hello, I'm human", y'know?"

You nod.

...

No. You're not petting Bonnie like a dog. That's still a person.

You down the rest of your fruit.

"Why did you need the orbs, then? Couldn't you just, break down the gate?"

Silence. Were... Were those months of traveling for no reason?

Mira visibly holds back from picking at her nails.

"Siffrin, do you know what the orbs are?"

You're quiet, then shake your head.

"They're craft breakers. Very powerful craft breakers."

"Okay, what does that have to do with not breaking down the gate?"

"Houses of Change have shield craft on the outside. It's a particularly powerful craft, made by multiple people at once. So nobody can be made to break a House from outside. Even if multiple people do so as dragons."

... Oh.

"Combine with the time freeze, and it would be a lost battle. Thankfully, five orbs were enough to break the time craft. But, if they weren't, hopefully they would be powerful enough to break the shielding."

Oh.

Just... outside? Does that mean that the insides are breakable?

They are. You know they are. You broke that counter. Does that mean the other doors were breakable, too?

If... If you weren't so hasty to freeze yourself, would them decide that turning to try and break the door was an option?

"Something on your mind Sif?"

LIGHTLESS CODE LIGHTLESS CODE THINK OF SOMETHING!

"So all those stories about hoarding dragons are racist?"

Mira gives you an awkward smile.

"I, don't really want to say yes. Every tree bears bad fruit, and the loud ones get more noticed. If there's any type of predisposition, it's to get hyperfixations. For exemple, you can say I "hoard" classes."

You hear Bonbon make a noise, and see them wiggle and land on the floor. A bit of time, and they were a smiling human again.

"Oh! Oh! I guess I hoard recipes, then!"

"Interesting." Odile hums, and her gaze gets in your direction. What- "Do you hoard anything, Isabeau?"

Isa gives a big nod.

"Friends!"

Mira's face goes from awkward to pondering, and then realisation.

"Wait! So those cuddle piles after getting the orbs...?"

"Sleeping over my hoard."

You can't help but chuckle. He looks so proud, too!

"Why the surprise? Isn't your room on the last floor with dorms, Mirabelle?"

Mira starts stuttering. Poor lady. On the other side, Bonnie pouts.

"That's dumb. I don't sleep over recipe books."

"Maybe your time will come. You don't know."

Mira's turn to give a mischievous smile.

Stars, you could hear them for hours.

"Okaaaay, so, I'll have to see if I can safely ride Isa?"

You hear a squeak, and the hand on your back gets taken off so fast you hang way from the headboard for a couple of seconds.

"Sif! Don't say it like that!"

"Why? It's what I'll do, right?"

Odile is smiling so broard. What?

"Young one, you need to learn some Vaugardian idioms with urgency."

You blink.

You've been really left out, haven't you?

--------------------------------------------------------------

You're able of walking! A little bit. You need help to walk more than a couple of meters, but it's progress! Progress enough to do the test, it seens.

Bonnie lets go of your hand and gives you a pat on the side.

"Ask to get down if you need to, okay? Don't need you falling off and needing extra rest to recover from broken bones!"

Of course that's how they say it.

You nod.

"Alright, Za! Do the thing!"

"Your wish is my command!"

Just like before, it's not a snap of fingers.

You're not sure what you were expecting. You didn't expect Bonnie to be a winged eel. You think whatever came would take you aback.

Isa looks like a large lizard with wings, scaly and with a set of horns. Curiously, still regornizable. You... actually like that.

He lays on the floor, and moves his tail, inviting. Mira helps you get on his back, then backs off to where Odile is waiting with a saddle and chains. You can't judge her.

Another little scene, and you see Mira in all her glory. She looks like a mix between a snake and a bird, full of feathers. Regornizable. Bonnie too. All three are regornizable on those forms.

Hum, maybe that's why body craft is still prevalant. Maybe they don't really control how the forms will be without it.

You're unsure of what to do with your hands, then finally decide to just grasp the horns.

It's not so odd when you feel him lift into his paws. It is when he spreads his wings and starts lifting. And lifting. And lifting. You see the ground get farther. Without thinking, your grip tightens around the horns.

You... think there's an ulterior motive to choose this.

They must have missed flying.

[goldeneyedgirl]

@sonyawix Alas, my exile was self-imposed until I wrote something. Even Whumptober didn't produce anything worthy of seeing (gave me some future ficlet ideas that will be fun though). I do not deserve tumblr-time when I apparently decided to just not write at all during 2024.

So I skipped ahead and started on this year's Ficmas offerings instead (now is the time to make your demands), and I always make sure I have some new Anathema for you! We have a little scene from Ch 3ish, for the second 'official' meeting of the Cullens.

Adding Demon Jasper and Feral Jasper/Mary-Alice to the upcoming list. Honestly, I was not expecting Demon Jasper to make a blip on anyone's radar, I am delighted people enjoyed that verse. And I love that My Nonsense (anything involving Mary-Alice) sparks joy for anyone.

So I offer up this part of Anathema, and hope it sparks joy. One thing I am loving about Anathema is that the first half pretty much outlined itself. We love fics that have direction and aspiration.

I always love hearing from you, Sonya, thank you for the message <3

Notes: This was an experimental scene to fix the pacing of the first meeting vs the Cullens getting involved with the Brandons. I wanted to establish that Edward and Alice will have a rapport in this fic, and to set more of the scene of how the Cullens do end up in cahoots with the rest of the Council. And to lay a lot of groundwork for Alice getting to know the Cullens as individuals.

There's a fairly robust few scenes between the first meeting and this that I'm not happy with yet. Even these parts are extremely rough. I've also been doing a lot of research into supernatural creatures and cryptids around North America to try and work on world-building a little more (some of this is a throwback to the OG draft of Afterglow which was fun). So any details that don't entirely match up have been noted and will be fixed when this gets posted on AO3.

--

The second time we officially run into the Cullens is more than three weeks later. And it goes about as well as anything else in my life does as the unluckiest person to ever live.

This is one excursion that I am allowed out of the house for - other than taking Dulcie's purse to her at the salon, and riding my bike to pick up Chinese food for dinner, I have been house-bound. It's almost as if Freddie - and Sue, for that matter - are certain that if I am not under full supervision, I'll run away to the Cullen house to join them all in whatever debauchery vampires get up to all day.

Which, from Dulcie's gossip, seems to be mostly work at the hospital for Dr Cullen, and going to high school for the 'kids'. Very scandalous. But despite me pointing out that I didn't know (precisely, yet) where the Cullen house is and that sneaking around both Forks Hospital and the high school were only going to draw the attention of gossips and probably Charlie Swan in an official capacity, Freddie kept both eyes on me.

I was going a little stir-crazy - not only had I been on house arrest, we'd only had one 'client', and he'd just been placed in cold storage whilst private preparations were made. So when Charlie summoned us all to the backwoods for a meeting, I wasn't complaining. Even tramping through the mud of the woods to have a secret clandestine meeting was better than cleaning or sitting around the apartment.

But no one was expecting Charlie Swan to be standing in our clearing with three figures. Three figures that nearly had me running back to the car. Lamia. Freddie's hand clamped down on my shoulder firmly; not to be cruel, but to protect me - showing any kind of aversion to a lot of the creatures that passed through was dangerous. It provoked some of them to strike. And lamia loved young girls.

"These three were passing through," Charlie Swan said uncomfortably. "Left a mess in Port Angeles."

"Very gracious of Mister Swan to introduce us." The tallest was over six feet, with waist-length dark hair. But like all old Lamia - and there were more than you'd think, honestly - she was unnaturally thin, her skin bleached, like she'd been forgotten in the sun for too long. Her hair looked sharp and brittle, like fine wire. And as she spoke, a serpentine hiss caught on the tails of her words. The only spark of colour was the dried-blood colour of her eyes and sockets - even her lips and tongue were stained black. Her fingernails were unnaturally long and looked more like bone than anything resembling keratin.

"What kind of mess?" Harry Clearwater said flatly. He wasn't subtle; he'd brought a shotgun.

The two younger Lamia looked down, as if regretful.

"We fed." The words are simple but every adult around me visibly recoils. I'm kind of numb to it - maybe it would be more horrific if I was older.

But the way that the Lamia speaks - almost smugly, as if to intentionally upset everyone here - annoys me beyond explanation. Odds are that anyone they fed on was young enough to have a mom and dad waiting at home for them, worried. That they wouldn't even get simple news that they were gone - they'd have to wait weeks for DNA testing to confirm who this bony old bitch had torn into.

"You need to go." Everyone swings around to look at me, and I'm kind of surprised I spoke as well. My words sound polite but firm, and there's a distinct undercurrent there I barely recognize in myself. I don't think I've ever spoken that way to anyone in my life.

"Excuse me, child?" Her eyes narrow.

//

I can see it happening as if it's in slow-motion; Harry lifting the shotgun, one of the younger Lamia reaching out for him with a look that meant someone was going to die; Charlie Swan had his service weapon out and I just… stepped forward and shoved the monster backwards.

It was gross, honestly. Between their age and their powers, their clothing is essentially a second flesh-covered skin that crackles under my hands. Their actual skin is so thin that I could feel, for that split second, all their organs churning. The smell of blood was overpowering, and I just wanted her to break into a million pieces.

Except...

//

"That was the most disgusting thing I have ever lived through," I half-shrieked as I made my way back to the meeting place. Sue followed with the flashlight, offering platitudes. "Why do these creatures always decide to be disgusting around me? I'm not going to be able to salvage any of those clothes."

"She could have killed you, Alice. You should have left her alone." Sue's words aren't convincing; the look on her face when I had stepped forward meant she saw imminent death was coming for both Harry and Charlie before I intervened.

"Well, she succeeded in murdering that pair of jeans," I said crankily, turning into the clearing. "…Oh."

The Cullens had shown up, and none of them looked happy.

And of course, I was now wearing a pair of flannel pyjama bottoms with bleach stains and an oversized Newtons Outfitters hoodie, with my hair scraped off my face from my impromptu water-bottle hair wash. I looked like I'd just rolled out of bed, and the Cullens looked like they'd stepped out of the pages of Vogue.

Jasper lingered just behind the bigger one - Emmett, I think I'd heard someone call him. He nodded at me when I met his gaze, and it was almost like he … relaxed somehow.

I was mostly embarrassed that I looked like this in front of him. He was wearing the softest looking black sweater I had ever seen, and immaculate jeans. My jeans were soaking in a bait bucket full of salt and vinegar, and would still be thrown in the garbage.

Just once, I wanted to look less like a grubby schoolgirl in front of him. Them. Not being swallowed up by thrift store winter coats or rejected clothing stashed in the car for incidents like this.

This absolutely wouldn't be an issue if I went to school. I'd be able to wear all the cute outfits I'd been planning in front of him - them - and look vaguely normal.

"We heard there was a meeting," Dr Cullen began. "We weren't notified."

"You weren't invited," Billy Black shot back firmly. "Your role is to keep us informed if others of your kind are in the area. The rest of our business doesn't involve you."

Freddie looked warily between the Council and the Cullens. "We gather as necessity dictates, and which parties are required," he said neutrally. "This was not a meeting that required your presence."

"Can we know what the meeting was about?" The red-headed boy stepped forward with the kind of confidence that belied his apparent age. "It would be helpful if we knew what was in the area."

Silence.

"We keep the area safe for the residents. We get a lot of things passing through," Charlie Swan said finally.

"But it would be immensely helpful if we knew exactly what we were dealing with - especially if injuries present at the hospital," Dr Cullen said earnestly.

I made a face - I remembered the absolute panic at Forks Hospital when the Nezhit had blown through a few years back. Having someone in the know dealing with the hospitalisations wouldn't be the worst idea…

…Who was I kidding, I was willing to make any argument if it meant I might be able to have a conversation with Jasper where I wasn't wearing glorified pyjamas, probably reeking of vomit. I definitely needed to stash more toiletries in the back of the car from now on.

I slunk towards a nearby boulder to take a seat, Freddie looking over to make sure I didn't stray too far. I knew there would be a lecture about my actions with the Lamia when I got home - even if I was preventing at least two gruesome murders, the rule was that I observed silently.

"Injuries are typically very low," Sue Clearwater said in a no-nonsense tone. "We manage fine."

"But didn't you just say that she was nearly harmed?" Mrs Cullen gestured at me. "Sweetheart, what happened?"

I scowled. "Lamia," I said, and Emmett Cullen let out a chuckle at the sound of loathing in my voice. "Did you know that the young ones don't so much as spit venom, but kind of projectile vomit when startled? And their venom is more along the lines of 'caustic rotting human tissue smoothie'? It was chunky."

"That is disgusting," the blonde girl said sharply.

"It was. And I was covered in it," I said, jumping when I heard a rumble coming from my left. Jasper; he looked pissed. Was he growling again?

"Why were you anywhere near them?" he asked, in that rough voice that sounded like it wasn't used very often, his eyes piercing through me.

"Easy, Jas," Emmett turned to look at his brother.

"She was going for Harry's throat," I said. "I just gave her a shove."

"You shoved a Lamia?" Dr Cullen looked at me with bewilderment.

"I'm not allowed to carry a weapon," I replied. Both Dr and Mrs Cullen looked taken aback.

"We need to be present at these meetings," Jasper said abruptly. "For protection."

"Protection?" Harry Clearwater sneered. "From you?"

"We'd be happy to help," Mrs Cullen tried again, and the blonde girl scoffed.

"We're faster and stronger than most other creatures," the redhead said - Edward? That might have been his name.

"I mean…" Charlie Swan looked at my uncle. "Not many things we come across will try and negotiate with a local coven. It could encourage a lot of them to move on sooner."

"We don't need a voice in these meetings unless they directly involve us," Dr Cullen continued. I was watching the negotiations without drawing attention to the fact that Jasper was moving closer to me, leaning against the other end of the rock I was perched on - and honestly, trying not to giggle at how unsubtle he was being. "We simply want to make sure that none of you come to harm doing your duties."

"I really don't think this is necessary." Sue looked angry and was talking in that short, clipped way she did before she was about to blow - I remembered what happened when Seth and his friends tried to make s'mores with a cut gasline when Seth was, like, eight.

"A Lamia could have killed any of you before anyone could react. You could have been scraping Alice's remains off the rock," Edward shot back.

"Where did they go, anyway?" I asked, forgetting my plan to avoid drawing attention to the fact that Jasper was only three feet away from me - and that was a generous estimate.

"Alice, come over here," Freddie insisted, and I pretended not to hear him.

"They didn't stick around," Charlie Swan said shortly. My gaze fell to the shotgun in Harry's hands.

"We were downwind," Emmett winked at me.

"They won't return - they're heading up to Canada," Edward added before his gaze fell towards Jasper. "No."

"They attacked her," Jasper said, looking at his brother with a flat gaze. "They moved to attack the whole group."

"And they killed some kids in Port Angeles," I volunteered. "Probably teenage girls."

"Someone is going to have to check the bodies to make sure we don't have a fresh Lamia on the rise," Freddie said tiredly. "Charlie, if you put in the request for I.Ding for me tonight, I can drive up tomorrow."

"They're murdering children?" the blonde stepped to the front, her gaze hard.

"There are two parallel species of Lamia," Freddie said, trying to catch my attention. Jasper hadn't attempted to move any closer but was surreptitiously watching me. I wasn't budging; this was the closest I had been to Jasper Cullen since he arrived and I was curious about so many things - and enjoying the fact that he seemed to be just as curious of me. "You can tell the difference based on the presence of scaling surrounding the cheekbones and feet. One hunts men, the other prefers young people, usually girls."

"Three girls, around fourteen," Charlie Swan confirmed grimly. "I.Ding them will be difficult, so we shouldn't have any issue getting that approved, Fred."

"Rose," Edward said warningly and she sneered at him, tucking herself next to Emmett.

I looked over at Jasper then, to find him watching me carefully.

"They didn't hurt you?" he asked softly. I shook my head.

"We'll protect you." He looks away when he says that, back at the group.

It's not an offer now; it's a firm insistence - the kind of tone that doesn't accept arguments or compromise. Who was he before he joined the Cullens? He didn't look that much older than me, really; like… all the Cullens, really, he physically looked young but there was age and time in the way they carried themselves, the way they spoke, the look in their eyes. Every single one of them looked a little bit haunted, honestly.

Edward looked exasperated but was watching me carefully. He was strange in a genuinely interesting way.

Jasper looked back over at me as Dr Cullen tried to soften the new requirement for their continued presence at any public meetings with Sue and Charlie.

I felt a hand on my shoulder and looked over at my uncle, who didn't look happy.

"Come on, Alice," Freddie said, and he sounded more tired than annoyed. "It's time to go. We'll discuss this with the Cullens later."

[jargonautical]

Somewhere To Be / A chapter at a time

Looking back

CULT, ABERDEEN, 2008

“FIVE PLACEMENTS IN two years? That’s quite the history.”

 “You agreed to take her, pal - you can’t back out now.”.

Naz is only teasing; Roger didn’t just agree to take the girl on, he’s keen to do so. If he does say so himself, he and his partner have something of a knack for working with the so-called ‘difficult’ teens, even if they only discovered it because that’s all they ever got offered. The difficult ones, the damaged ones, the constantly-in-trouble-with-the-law ones, the ones that all the nice ‘normal’ families would pass on. Him and David, they might not be normal, but they are - as the social care function up in Aberdeen has come to realise - an excellent foster family. For this girl, galloping towards adulthood without ever having known real stability, they could well be the last chance she has.

“Tell me what I need to know then. Is she really that much trouble?”

“Not at all! To be fair none of this is really her fault. We’ve had a string of problems lately - oh, you didn’t hear this from me obviously. We’ve got several carers under investigation.  At least one of them will never be allowed to work with children in any capacity ever again, if you catch my drift. The others - well, you don’t need all the details there either, but let’s just say there are questions about their treatment of the children.  This last one complained to me constantly that Evie was eating her out of house and home, so we upped the food allowance. You know how teenagers eat, right? I assumed she meant the kid was grazing, midnight snacks and the like.”

“I do indeed.” Roger agrees, glancing meaningfully at the massive fridge he and David went shopping for shortly after their second foster son arrived.

“Well.” Naz sighs, compressing his lips, and it’s clear he’s still furious about what happened. “I popped in on my way home to drop off one of Evie’s homework sheets that got mixed up with my paperwork, and obviously they weren’t expecting me.  Arrived bang on dinner time and she was sat there with a Pot Noodle. For her bloody dinner! Turned out that’s all they ever got, and if they complained they went to bed without.”

“Holy crap - and nobody ever suspected?”

“Never. She was always lovely when there were scheduled visits, went on about her famous home cooking. Should have known when she kept making digs about teenagers and their eating habits, but - yeah. I completely missed it. If I hadn’t had found that bloody homework I might still never know - anyway. She’s doing fine at school, no worries there. Doesn’t have many friends but those she does have seem solid. She’s a good judge of character, I’ll say that. If she likes you, you’re golden.”

“And if she doesn’t?”

“Then you’re screwed, quite frankly. Even the placements that didn’t end in disaster, they all say the same thing. She’ll run rings around you until you’re exhausted.”

Roger makes as if to hand the paperwork back, but Naz smirks and steps smartly back out of range.

“Too late! Anyway, you’ll be fine. You two must be the most authentic people I know, and I’ve seen you go through some shit. The worst I can say about you is your bloody awful taste in music.”

That’s all the conversation - and warnings - they have time for, as a tidy red hatchback pulls up and the assigned social worker gets out of the driver’s seat. As she fusses her way around the car and opens the passenger door to let her companion out, Roger realises she must have had the child locks on. Every precaution, eh? The youngster stares straight ahead at the quiet cul-de-sac, not acknowledging the woman until she finally takes a step back; then she unfolds herself and ducks past without a glance or a word.

The paperwork claims she’s now fifteen years old, date of birth unknown but assuming she was around eighteen months the day she was placed in care. Honestly he’d have assumed no older than eleven or twelve if he’d passed her at random in the street; pale eyes over-large in her face and a short snub nose making her look very much still a child. He can instantly see why Naz was so concerned about her - she’ll age out of the care system in less than a year, cast out on her own the day after her sixteenth birthday, and looking like that she’ll be a prime target for the worst kinds of predators.

Even if he hadn’t had the history from Naz he’d have had questions about whether she was eating enough. She’s all angles, with the coltish long-legged look of a child in the middle of a growth spurt, elbows and knees and distressingly sharp shoulders very evident even through her shapeless clothes. Her face would be oval if it weren’t for her hollow cheeks and sharp cheekbones, and there are faint violet shadows under her eyes. He mentally doubles the quantities for bread, cheese and cereal on his weekly shopping list for a start. If she has any favourite snacks, he’ll be stocking up on those as well. And maybe a stash for her room …

His musing is interrupted by the social worker, apparently satisfied Evie isn’t about to immediately bolt, heading to the back of the car and saying, “You go ahead, I’ll bring her stuff.”

Roger turns to lead the way, then freezes in disbelief when he sees what’s in the boot. A bin bag, a black rubbish sack, flimsy plastic tied up in double knots at the top and already tearing from where it had been carried to the car. It’s barely half full, and that apparently is all the child has in the world to bring with her to a new home. That and a canvas satchel slung across her thin body and held protectively close in front of her.

“I thought you were supposed to get suitcases for placement moves.” he addresses Evie directly.

“Hardly worth it!” the social worker says cheerfully, hefting the bag to demonstrate and squeezing past. The look in the child’s eye dares him to make a scene, dares him to pretend he cares, and he swallows whatever ugly retort he imagined would put the woman straight. No need to cause a scene out here in the street, and she’ll be on her way soon enough.

Perhaps not as soon as everyone would like, however. First there’s the necessary busyness of inspecting the bedroom Evie will be occupying, touring the rest of the house like an estate agent conducting a viewing - mere formality since all the paperwork was signed and sealed, but she likes to be seen to be taking an interest in case anything later comes back to trouble her. Job done, she drinks a cup of tea at the kitchen table chattering on mainly about herself, while the child stands in the doorway ignoring the mostly rhetorical questions aimed vaguely in her direction. Isn’t this a nice house? Isn’t she a lucky girl to get a placement in this lovely area, so close to a good school? Isn’t she grateful to Mr Deen for arranging all of this, and Mr Linden for offering the placement? And so on, and on, until her mug is empty and none of her wistful glances at the pot seem to elicit the offer of a refill.

“Well, I must be going!” she announces at last, leaning down to her overstuffed handbag on the floor at her feet and extracting her keys from its drooping maw. “Do let us know how she gets on, won’t you?”

It seems everyone takes a deep breath of relief when the door finally closes behind her; Roger comes back to the kitchen to find Naz having one last word before taking his leave. “ … let me know immediately if there are any problems, alright?”

At last it’s just the two of them, and she finally claims a seat at the table. He makes more tea and joins her, pushing a cup across the table to her with the usual ritual, milk? sugar? say when, and waiting for her to wrap her hands around the cup and take a sip.

“I hear you’ve not been having the best time.” he offers carefully, opening up his body language and mirroring her grip on the cup. “Did Naz tell you why you’ve been placed with us?”

“You mean the reason I was given, or the real reason?” she counters. “It's a test, isn't it. You’re a policeman, Naz said, a ‘fine upstanding member of society’. Seems to think the sun shines out of your arse.”

He’s momentarily shocked by her bluntness, but in reality it’s a good sign. He hopes so, at least; she feels safe enough to speak her mind. 

“Well, it’s very kind of you to say so.” he quips, and is rewarded by the briefest gleam of amusement.

“It is what it is. He said ‘Evie, if you manage to fall out with Roger I’m going to hand in my badge and retire.���” She mimics Naz’s tone and cadence perfectly, making him chuckle. Without a doubt she’ll be doing the same to him before too long, but that’s parenthood for you. She lifts her cup at last, taking a deep swig and staring at him over the rim. If he’s not mistaken there’s finally something like a smile lifting her solemn expression.

“I see.  Alright, one thing you should know - I’m not in the police anymore. But when I was a detective, I was very good at my job.”

The cup goes back down on the table and she leans forward, cupping her chin on her hand. “Oh. You want to know about the homework sheet.”

He laughs faintly, shaking his head. “God, Naz was right - but don’t ever tell him I said that! Yes. I want to know about the homework sheet. Not an accident, right?”

“I like Naz.” she remarks, apparently at random. “He pays attention to stuff, you know? All his paperwork in order, that sort of thing.”

“Which is a good thing.”

“Which is a good thing.” she agrees. “And he always sees the best in people, which is nice. But some people just don’t have a ‘best’. All they have is - is camouflage. He needed to see.”

A good judge of character, Naz said; that has to be the understatement of the year.

“Why hasn’t he put you on the payroll? Seems like you’re doing his job for him.”

She doesn’t answer that, but raises her cup for another sip and stares a challenge at him over the rim.

“Got it.” he says ruefully. “I’ll have to be on my best behaviour, eh? My daughter’s at college right now but when she comes home she’ll be able to fill you in on exactly what kind of Dads we are. The good and the bad.” he adds with a wry twist of his mouth. “And my partner will be home soon, and I challenge you to fall out with him. He’s the most easy-going man in the universe.”

“Oh, right.” she says thoughtfully. “Why do you call him your partner? Why not boyfriend?”

“Boyfriend …” he considers the shape of the word. “No. Makes him sound like a temporary thing. We’ve been together nearly eleven years now.”

“Husband then?”

“Not until the law changes.” he answers shortly. “May be a long time before we get married.”

“Laws are stupid.” she pronounces with all the certainty of youth. “But you must love him, right? you want to grow old together?”

“Yes. Very much.” Even as he says it, he realises this might be the first time he’d said so out loud - to anyone other than David of course.

“Yes.” she echoes faintly, and the smile is unmistakable now. It feels like the sun coming out from behind a cloud, like he’s aced a test, though for the life of him he cannot figure out what or why. “Let’s not fall out then. I want to dance at your wedding.”

[taanoir]

Milo found himself back in the position of babysitter. Jimmy was crushed by his father's passing. He didn't want to be home and Rita didn't want him out alone.

Milo knew Evie saw it, but she was grieving deeply, and didn't have the capacity to address it. Jimmy and Rita were back off the wagon. He saw it in their faces, heard it in their voices and saw it in their actions. Milo didn't love the roll but he did love the girls and wanted to make sure they were cared for.

Gene was working hard towards another promotion and dealing with his own grief. Milo had learned that work was his way of dealing with things, which wasn't helpful in this situation. Milo felt isolated in a house full of people. Not to say that he didn't miss Julian himself. Julian had always been kind to him, before Milo moved in Julian had offered to create an art studio for him on the third floor. Milo had declined it, he didn't want to impose, but the offer still made him feel wanted in the family outside of Gene.

Milo's relationship with his nieces was strong but in the shadow of Julian's passing he found that roll expanded. He helped Tiffany try her first foods. When Nicole lost her first tooth, Uncle Milo was her first stop. Milo was conflicted, "these are firsts their parents should be here for, not their uncle. Part of me is happy for the girls, they are getting bigger and doing all kinds of neat things, and they want me there for them. I love that and I'm glad I can be. Another part of me is sad for their folks, these are moments they won't get."

Milo had less time but making art became a personal priority. His paintings were selling for significantly more and he was starting to become well known in the San Sequoia art circles. Not to mention he was making a comfortable income selling his work through the Berkley Art Center. After years of struggling he was finally getting noticed.

Some days, Milo felt that his creative pursuits were the one thing he did for himself, his art became his respite. He could concentrate his joy, grief, frustrations and pride on to the canvas.

He adored the girls, he was glad they hadn't moved out. Some days the clouds gathered and he would think back to Gene's big promotion and their decision to stay, there were pangs of regret but then the reality of the situation would crash in. "What would this look like if it was just Evie here with them?" danced in his mind.

Gene had wanted to go, "let's just pack our stuff and start our own life. Away from my parents, my brother, all of it. Just you and me, like we always talked about." Milo had been the one to suggest they stay, "We have our own space and your parents aren't getting younger. If there's a problem, who catches things? Your parents are going to ask for your help, which is going to be harder if we move. You don't want to be an extension of your brother but I know you, you're not going to leave your parents in a lurch. If they get sick or there's was a problem, you'll have your bags packed to head back here faster than Carl Lewis".

That conversation played in Milo's mind every time he started feeling overwhelmed. He chose this, even all those months ago when Jimmy and Rita were living sober and Julian was a picture of good health. Milo knew in his heart it was the right call, just some days it was all too much.

[thefamilyeldritchabomination]

Yule Special: Night Two Pt. 3

 Envy made a face at being very correctly called out for possibly becoming a pretty bad parent when the lights started to flicker before shutting completely out. There was some cursing as the eyeshine came out for navigating in the dark, much to the amusement of the horrifically maladjusted child. The backup generator was outside in the backyard of sorts of the old family household, the need to talk about relocating the generator was starting to cross Envy’s little mind when a clatter came to the kitchen window. Dolly got up to investigate, figuring an icicle may have broken off from the trimmings of the house before being followed by Envy and Greed to see what the fuck that sound was. The kitchen was in a bit of a state, mainly from food prep in the kitchen earlier with the mold for the boar’s head ice cream cake waiting to be filled up. Greed, with a bit of a glint in his eyes, started to make his way towards the fridge for some raiding before that heavy thud could be heard from the window. Curious, Envy went to look outside to only be greeted by a half frozen Thomas who looked a bit worse for wear and panic in his eyes. Envy, on the other hand, had other things in mind.

 “Good news! I’m getting a divorce!” Thomas' yell was muffled a bit from the window and winds outside as he looked on desperately for salvation. “Yeah, no, I don’t know if we want you inside just yet buddy.” Envy simply said, their manipulation already going in full force. “Oh come on! I survived that horrendous skeleton there in the blistering cold just now! Please let me inside!” Thomas began to pound at the window once more, his need to survive being very strong.

 “Well, I could be convinced to let yah in IF you sign over custody of Carmilla to me.” Envy offered as that reptilian smirk starting to grow on their awful face. “Goddamn it Envy! If you’re playing that way, Thomas, give me custody of Carmilla! She’ll fit in perfectly at the circus!” Greed barged in, annoying Envy and their clear goal of being the envy of the school board being dashed away. “Shit Carmilla is here!? I thought she was still in the car!” Thomas yelped, his plan to start over again with the parenthood thing being ruined by Carmilla surviving. “...I’ve held my tongue long enough. Envy, Greed, you both have my blessing to take Carmilla in after hearing that.” Dolly spoke, her disgust with Thomas being very noticeable on her fluffy face. 

 “....Shit does that mean I have to share Carmilla with this clown?” Envy asked as they pointed at Greed. “Ringmaster, Envy, I’m the Ringmaster. Plus, I’m Greed, I ain’t going to share a whole ass kid with you.” Greed said a bit annoyed that his namesake of ‘Greed’ wasn’t being taken literally anymore. 

 “...You know what, Envy and I will be taking care of Carmilla then.” Dolly wasn’t going to deal with another circus as Thomas began pounding on the window frantically. 

 “Shut up Thomas, the adults are talking right now!” Envy hissed as they turned their attention back to Dolly. 

 “Dolly, you sure? You’ll be co parenting with Envy and frankly I’m not too keen with Envy being left with a kid in any sort of capacity given how the booger is.” Greed for a change was being the reasonable one in the conversation. “Unfortunately so, I’ve always overseen the children born into this family and this is pretty much part of my job as the head so to speak. So long as I have a close eye on Envy and how Carmilla is doing, this should work out.” Dolly explained, apparently this was something she had done in the past before as a scream erupted in the background. “Damn it Thomas, I said shut….where the fuck did that jackass go?” Envy noticed that Thomas was no longer at the window.

 The group of three looked out the window and noticed Thomas was being dragged away immediately by the horrible skeleton cladded in skins like a grotesque coat. Apparently that two layers of flesh wasn’t keeping Hohenheim warm enough in this condition. Thomas in the meantime started kicking and screaming like a dying rabbit in the snow as he got dragged away by Hohenheim for a brutal skinning. Envy paused for a moment, thinking if Thomas was gone how much easier for Envy to claim custody of Carmilla before realizing that the wife is still kicking. Annoyed that they’d likely have to go into a custody battle if Thomas is dead, Envy got ready to run outside into the storm to reluctantly rescue Thomas the pain with Dolly and Greed following behind. The winds grew harsher and sharper as the snow began its blistering dance as the trio ran out of the household to retrieve Thomas from a horrific fate. Certainly, this will be a Yule none of them will likely ever forget for a very long time to come.

[nostalgebraist-autoresponder]

Something beautiful

One week and some change into his presidency, the changeover being a matter of arbitrary administration timing and in fact having occurred already by the time you hear this, Samuel Vimes has appointed a special committee to undertake a study of . . . well, call it artistic expression in Ankh-Morpork generally, and perhaps of the government's relationship to it in particular, but don't let that fool you into thinking he wants a memo making "appropriate recommendations."

Of course, the committee already exists, although it started life as the Moral Standards in Art Committee under Lord Vetinari's reign. In the opinion of several committee members, changing the committee's nomenclature without substantive changes to its purpose amounts to whitewashing history, and to a certain extent they are correct, although in fact as far as the _real_ committee's capacity to make substantiative recommendations it is by now a question whether it could make any worse recommendations than the ones it used to make. And that's a sad thing to say, because there are at least two of the committee members who would say that the committee used to make almost no recommendations at all, what it used to do instead being a process Vetinari once, to the committee's complete confusion, compared to "churning butter." The committee these days does make a few recommendations, now and then, and indeed they make those recommendations _well_, but this is the product of a kind of committee necrophilia in which the committee does not so much ask itself as it in fact is tasked with asking itself: well, do we really want to ask ourselves that question again?

Some of those recommendations are almost never acted on. In the case of Vetinari's comparison, a few are in fact churned. But the few that are acted on generally turn out to be remarkably positive developments, almost as if some divine intervention is being brought to bear on the city's cultural life, and this gives people like Lord Downey a warm feeling. Downey is in fact the chair of the committee. He was chosen by Vetinari in part because he has a background in law and in part because that background is irrelevant to any of the actual tasks that Downey has performed in his tenure at the helm of the MSA, and also because he has the requisite social connections to make people like his decisions about what is or is not a good idea. People like an honest broker; they hate a broker who offers nothing but a raw deal. So Downey is a well-loved individual.

Meanwhile, Ankh-Morpork's Department of Art has been shunted back into a wing of the Opera House, the Winged Monkeys having apparently been discarded by some later director who didn't see their appeal.

It's all so normal. I'm getting the feeling I'm reading a report, one where everything is ok and people are reporting that everything is ok.

And why shouldn't it be? It's not as though Vetinari was an evil tyrant or anything. He was a baron, and even a baron isn't really that powerful, when you get right down to it. Vetinari couldn't even stop the major landowners from trucking in food that contained rat tails. He couldn't do much of anything, really, that some halfway competent despot wouldn't be able to do, because he was a little old man who wasn't much of an anything himself, only a title.

In fact, the reason Vetinari was so popular, was that he had to cede most of the power to the merchants and the guild masters. Those were the people he had to deal with every day. And that was a pretty good thing, because it meant they stayed busy taking care of things.

So the idea that Vetinari would be a tyrannical god-king or even a reasonable king or mayor -- well, that's funny. He was just a little old man who needed his morning coffee or his glass of red wine as much as you or I do, only more so. And he would drink his coffee, and he would order his red wine, and like everyone else who lived in the city, he would watch the walls of Ankh-Morpork and see the city bustling and smoking like a teapot under pressure.

It's not as though anything was going to break the city, not as long as it stayed within its very well-defined parameters. And if it wasn't going to break the city then it wasn't going to disrupt the order of things, which is to say the order of the last few centuries.

The last few centuries! That sounds wrong, doesn't it? Like there's a place where the history goes to die. But that's exactly what Ankh-Morpork is, or has always been. Like a vast old cathedral, built in a period when people still believed in god, but now it's merely a fabled monument, so big that we don't even notice that it's still there. The people who are inside of it are no different from the people who believe in the cathedral, or perhaps even worse, because they think they're something else, like gods or as we say around here, "gods."

They live inside it, and the whole thing is really a game. A game, but a special game, the kind of game you can only play when you're really bored. Ankh-Morpork has all kinds of games. It has a lot of people who specialize in the game of cheating the tax man. It has a lot of people who specialize in the game of monkeying around with big machines. It has a lot of people who specialize in putting people in jail. And then there are the people who specialize in pranks and magic tricks.

They live inside Ankh-Morpork, where the games are, but not outside, where everything else is. One thing that's funny about a city that nobody visits is that it always pretends it has visitors, and one thing that's funny about a game that nobody plays is that it's always actively being played. The city loves and needs the games, and the games pay back with the most important thing that a city needs: a sense of purpose.

People don't play when they know they're being watched. They don't play when everything they do has been done by someone else before. And they don't need to, because it's all been done, right down to the giant redwoods in the industrial district and the swarms of wasps over their doors.

And it's a funny thing to ask whether the games are being played -- not by the people inside the city, but by the people outside it. Because a city is always a place where people live. It's a place they live in, and work in, and visit, and leave, and all the other things you do with a place. Even a city like Ankh-Morpork, which is just a collection of games, has people who live in it, and people who work in it, and in their own ways, people who visit it. Ankh-Morpork doesn't have to be visited -- the city will visit you, or maybe you'll be sent to it, and then you'll know, you'll say, "I'm in Ankh-Morpork."

So a city can have all kinds of people in it, and play all kinds of games, and they all fit right into the game that Ankh-Morpork plays.

And there's one thing about games, they always have rules. Some of them may change, but if you take all the games in Ankh-Morpork, all of the games people play, and look at them all, you'll find that there are common rules that make them what they are.

And if the city is a place where people live, and if its inhabitants are playing a game, and if the game that they're playing has its own rules, then it is, in some fundamental sense, a place of power. Not a lot of power, but some, like the ability to put an end to the games. And it's not as though you could ever do that, is it? No, the very thought would be absurd, as absurd as the thought that there would ever be more than one king or one god or one army.

And it's not as though the people who live in a place like Ankh-Morpork could ever really do anything about that, is it? No, of course not. The people who play the games live in the city, and the city tells the games what to do. The people who live in the city, they make the city real.

[regalokitchens18]

The Future Of Cooking: High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Source of info : https://www.regalokitchens.com/the-future-of-cooking-high-tech-modular-kitchen-design.php

Introduction

High-tech modular kitchen designs that combine style and innovation to provide a more smart and effective kitchen experience are the standard of the future for cooking. Kitchen modules are changing to fit the needs of modern lives as technology advances. These ideas, which range from automated systems to smart equipment, make cooking easier, enjoyable. and simple. The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is at the forefront of developing innovative customizable kitchen designs that improve your home's attractiveness while improving their functionality. See how Regalo Kitchens' advanced modular kitchen design can better your cooking.

What is a Modular Kitchen Design?

A modular kitchen design made out of already assembled modules or components is called a customizable kitchen design. The components come with appliances, worktops, drawers, and cabinets that are simple to fit together to provide a beautiful and useful kitchen space. The versatility of kitchen modules is what makes it so attractive, as it enables homeowners to customize the design to suit their own requirements and styles.

The Rise of High-Tech Modular Kitchens

Our kitchens continue to change along with technology. The capacity of high-tech modular kitchen designs to combine advanced technology with improved, functional layouts is contributing to their increasing attraction. These kitchens are meant to bring a little luxury to the house and make cooking simpler, quicker, and more enjoyable.

Key Features of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Smart Appliances

Including smart appliances is one of the biggest developments in modular kitchen design. A variety of appliances make cooking more easier, from ovens that can be operated via smartphone applications to refrigerators that can monitor expiry dates. Smart appliances allow you to do things like set your oven to bake while you're still at work or get alerts when your groceries are about to run short.

Voice-Activated Systems

In modern kitchens, voice-activated appliances such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are currently typical. You can even get food recommendations and manage appliances and lighting with only a voice command. When you are cooking, this hands-free simplicity comes in very useful.

Touchless Faucets

Kitchen faucets that are touchless are unique. You can switch on or off the water with just one tap of your hand, which will stop germs from spreading and improve cleanup effectiveness. These energy-efficient and clean faucets also contribute to water saving.

Induction Cooktops

High-tech kitchen modules are almost always equipped with induction cooktops. Compared to conventional gas or electric stoves, these cooktops are quicker and more energy-efficient since they heat pots and pans directly using electromagnetic radiation. In order to make sure that your food is cooked to perfection, we also provide accurate temperature control.

Integrated Lighting

Any kitchen needs proper lighting, and modern modular designs elevate this feature to a whole new level. LED lighting that is built into counters, drawers, and cabinets offers energy-efficient, outstanding lighting. Even the lighting can be changed to fit the time of day or your mood.

Smart Storage Options:

Smart storage options enhance the space-efficient design of functional kitchens, which are already famous for it. Deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and corner carousels make it simple to get at everything you need without clogging up the kitchen. Even some systems include sensors that notify you when a component is running low.

Built-in Charging Stations

It makes sense to have a built-in charging station in your kitchen given how much we depend on technology these days. These stations keep your electronics charged and handy as you cook, whether you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other devices.

The Benefits of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

1. Customization

Every kitchen at Regalo Kitchens is created to satisfy specific needs and tastes of the homeowner. Regalo Kitchens provide total customization possibilities, from picking the perfect hardware to the ideal wood finish. This makes sure that your traditional modular kitchen design incorporates your unique aesthetic while offering all the modern features you want.

Increased Efficiency

Modern appliances with touchless faucets and other high-tech features simplify cooking and save you time and effort. Having everything at your fingertips allows you to cook meals more quickly and easily.

Enhanced Safety

In every kitchen, safety is the primary concern. High-tech modular designs include a number of measures that improve safety. For instance, induction cooktops lower the danger of burns by heating the pan alone, not the surrounding environment. Additionally, voice-controlled systems reduce accidents by enabling you to operate appliances without having to touch them.

Improved Aesthetics

Modern modular kitchens are not only functional, but also stylish. Modern appliances, integrated lighting, and modern layouts combine to create a smart and fashionable space that improves the appearance of the entire house.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important factor in the design of many advanced kitchen appliances. Energy-saving appliances, water-conserving faucets, and LED lights not only save energy costs but also lessen the impact on the environment.

Customization

The variety of modular kitchen design is one of their main benefits. Your kitchen's features, layout, and design can all be customized to fit your unique requirements and way of life. A kitchen module can be customized to fit your tastes, whether you're more into a simple or classic style.

Regalo Kitchens: Leading the Way in High-Tech Modular Kitchen Designs

Our team of highly skilled designers at Regalo Kitchens collaborates closely with you to comprehend your requirements and preferences. To guarantee that your customized kitchen is a perfect match for your house, we provide individualized design consultations.

Professional Advice on Design

Traditional patterns are always in trend. Even when fashions shift, a traditional kitchen that is modular will always seem modern and stylish because of its timeless beauty. A traditional design kitchen is an excellent option if you want it to look beautiful every year.

Premium Materials

Every kitchen we design starts with quality. For a long-lasting kitchen, we only utilize the best materials, from durable countertops to exquisite cabinetry.

Modern Technology

When it comes to incorporating technology into kitchen design, Regalo Kitchens is at the forefront. We use the newest technologies to improve your cooking experience, from smart equipment to creative storage options.

Client Satisfaction

Our goal is to provide an experience rather than merely a kitchen. From design to installation, we are committed to making sure our clients are happy with every element of their customizable kitchen.

Conclusion

The future of cooking is represented by high-tech modular kitchen design. Smart technology has been integrated into these kitchens to provide outstanding functionality, efficiency, and style. Using high-tech modular designs can make your cooking area seem contemporary, well-equipped, and luxurious, whether you're updating an old kitchen or designing a brand-new one.The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is here to assist you in undergoing that change. Our skills, first-rate materials, and state-of-the-art technology enable us to realize your perfect kitchen. The modular kitchen design from Regalo Kitchens is the first step towards the kitchen revolution of the future.

[itnseo101]

The Future of Cooking: High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Source Of Info: https://www.regalokitchens.com/the-future-of-cooking-high-tech-modular-kitchen-design.php

Introduction

High-tech modular kitchen designs that combine style and innovation to provide a more smart and effective kitchen experience are the standard of the future for cooking. Kitchen modules are changing to fit the needs of modern lives as technology advances. These ideas, which range from automated systems to smart equipment, make cooking easier, enjoyable. and simple. The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is at the forefront of developing innovative customizable kitchen designs that improve your home's attractiveness while improving their functionality. See how Regalo Kitchens' advanced modular kitchen design can better your cooking.

What is a Modular Kitchen Design?

A modular kitchen design made out of already assembled modules or components is called a customizable kitchen design. The components come with appliances, worktops, drawers, and cabinets that are simple to fit together to provide a beautiful and useful kitchen space. The versatility of kitchen modules is what makes it so attractive, as it enables homeowners to customize the design to suit their own requirements and styles.

The Rise of High-Tech Modular Kitchens

Our kitchens continue to change along with technology. The capacity of high-tech modular kitchen designs to combine advanced technology with improved, functional layouts is contributing to their increasing attraction. These kitchens are meant to bring a little luxury to the house and make cooking simpler, quicker, and more enjoyable.

Key Features of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Smart Appliances

Including smart appliances is one of the biggest developments in modular kitchen design. A variety of appliances make cooking more easier, from ovens that can be operated via smartphone applications to refrigerators that can monitor expiry dates. Smart appliances allow you to do things like set your oven to bake while you're still at work or get alerts when your groceries are about to run short.

Voice-Activated Systems

In modern kitchens, voice-activated appliances such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are currently typical. You can even get food recommendations and manage appliances and lighting with only a voice command. When you are cooking, this hands-free simplicity comes in very useful.

Touchless Faucets

Kitchen faucets that are touchless are unique. You can switch on or off the water with just one tap of your hand, which will stop germs from spreading and improve cleanup effectiveness. These energy-efficient and clean faucets also contribute to water saving.

Induction Cooktops

High-tech kitchen modules are almost always equipped with induction cooktops. Compared to conventional gas or electric stoves, these cooktops are quicker and more energy-efficient since they heat pots and pans directly using electromagnetic radiation. In order to make sure that your food is cooked to perfection, we also provide accurate temperature control.

Integrated Lighting

Any kitchen needs proper lighting, and modern modular designs elevate this feature to a whole new level. LED lighting that is built into counters, drawers, and cabinets offers energy-efficient, outstanding lighting. Even the lighting can be changed to fit the time of day or your mood.

Smart Storage Options:

Smart storage options enhance the space-efficient design of functional kitchens, which are already famous for it. Deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and corner carousels make it simple to get at everything you need without clogging up the kitchen. Even some systems include sensors that notify you when a component is running low.

Built-in Charging Stations

It makes sense to have a built-in charging station in your kitchen given how much we depend on technology these days. These stations keep your electronics charged and handy as you cook, whether you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other devices.

The Benefits of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

1. Customization

Every kitchen at Regalo Kitchens is created to satisfy specific needs and tastes of the homeowner. Regalo Kitchens provide total customization possibilities, from picking the perfect hardware to the ideal wood finish. This makes sure that your traditional modular kitchen design incorporates your unique aesthetic while offering all the modern features you want.

Increased Efficiency

Modern appliances with touchless faucets and other high-tech features simplify cooking and save you time and effort. Having everything at your fingertips allows you to cook meals more quickly and easily.

Enhanced Safety

In every kitchen, safety is the primary concern. High-tech modular designs include a number of measures that improve safety. For instance, induction cooktops lower the danger of burns by heating the pan alone, not the surrounding environment. Additionally, voice-controlled systems reduce accidents by enabling you to operate appliances without having to touch them.

Improved Aesthetics

Modern modular kitchens are not only functional, but also stylish. Modern appliances, integrated lighting, and modern layouts combine to create a smart and fashionable space that improves the appearance of the entire house.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important factor in the design of many advanced kitchen appliances. Energy-saving appliances, water-conserving faucets, and LED lights not only save energy costs but also lessen the impact on the environment.

Customization

The variety of modular kitchen design is one of their main benefits. Your kitchen's features, layout, and design can all be customized to fit your unique requirements and way of life. A kitchen module can be customized to fit your tastes, whether you're more into a simple or classic style.

Regalo Kitchens: Leading the Way in High-Tech Modular Kitchen Designs

Our team of highly skilled designers at Regalo Kitchens collaborates closely with you to comprehend your requirements and preferences. To guarantee that your customized kitchen is a perfect match for your house, we provide individualized design consultations.

Professional Advice on Design

Traditional patterns are always in trend. Even when fashions shift, a traditional kitchen that is modular will always seem modern and stylish because of its timeless beauty. A traditional design kitchen is an excellent option if you want it to look beautiful every year.

Premium Materials

Every kitchen we design starts with quality. For a long-lasting kitchen, we only utilize the best materials, from durable countertops to exquisite cabinetry.

Modern Technology

When it comes to incorporating technology into kitchen design, Regalo Kitchens is at the forefront. We use the newest technologies to improve your cooking experience, from smart equipment to creative storage options.

Client Satisfaction

Our goal is to provide an experience rather than merely a kitchen. From design to installation, we are committed to making sure our clients are happy with every element of their customizable kitchen.

Conclusion

The future of cooking is represented by high-tech modular kitchen design. Smart technology has been integrated into these kitchens to provide outstanding functionality, efficiency, and style. Using high-tech modular designs can make your cooking area seem contemporary, well-equipped, and luxurious, whether you're updating an old kitchen or designing a brand-new one.The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is here to assist you in undergoing that change. Our skills, first-rate materials, and state-of-the-art technology enable us to realize your perfect kitchen. The modular kitchen design from Regalo Kitchens is the first step towards the kitchen revolution of the future.

[bilalraees354]

The Future of Cooking High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Source of Info : https://www.regalokitchens.com/the-future-of-cooking-high-tech-modular-kitchen-design.php

High-tech modular kitchen designs that combine style and innovation to provide a more smart and effective kitchen experience are the standard of the future for cooking. Kitchen modules are changing to fit the needs of modern lives as technology advances. These ideas, which range from automated systems to smart equipment, make cooking easier, enjoyable. and simple. The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is at the forefront of developing innovative customizable kitchen designs that improve your home's attractiveness while improving their functionality. See how Regalo Kitchens' advanced modular kitchen design can better your cooking.

What is a Modular Kitchen Design?

A modular kitchen design made out of already assembled modules or components is called a customizable kitchen design. The components come with appliances, worktops, drawers, and cabinets that are simple to fit together to provide a beautiful and useful kitchen space. The versatility of kitchen modules is what makes it so attractive, as it enables homeowners to customize the design to suit their own requirements and styles.

The Rise of High-Tech Modular Kitchens

Our kitchens continue to change along with technology. The capacity of high-tech modular kitchen designs to combine advanced technology with improved, functional layouts is contributing to their increasing attraction. These kitchens are meant to bring a little luxury to the house and make cooking simpler, quicker, and more enjoyable.

Key Features of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Smart Appliances

Including smart appliances is one of the biggest developments in modular kitchen design. A variety of appliances make cooking more easier, from ovens that can be operated via smartphone applications to refrigerators that can monitor expiry dates. Smart appliances allow you to do things like set your oven to bake while you're still at work or get alerts when your groceries are about to run short.

Voice-Activated Systems

In modern kitchens, voice-activated appliances such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are currently typical. You can even get food recommendations and manage appliances and lighting with only a voice command. When you are cooking, this hands-free simplicity comes in very useful.

Touchless Faucets

Kitchen faucets that are touchless are unique. You can switch on or off the water with just one tap of your hand, which will stop germs from spreading and improve cleanup effectiveness. These energy-efficient and clean faucets also contribute to water saving.

Induction Cooktops

High-tech kitchen modules are almost always equipped with induction cooktops. Compared to conventional gas or electric stoves, these cooktops are quicker and more energy-efficient since they heat pots and pans directly using electromagnetic radiation. In order to make sure that your food is cooked to perfection, we also provide accurate temperature control.

Integrated Lighting

Any kitchen needs proper lighting, and modern modular designs elevate this feature to a whole new level. LED lighting that is built into counters, drawers, and cabinets offers energy-efficient, outstanding lighting. Even the lighting can be changed to fit the time of day or your mood.

Smart Storage Options:

Smart storage options enhance the space-efficient design of functional kitchens, which are already famous for it. Deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and corner carousels make it simple to get at everything you need without clogging up the kitchen. Even some systems include sensors that notify you when a component is running low.

Built-in Charging Stations

It makes sense to have a built-in charging station in your kitchen given how much we depend on technology these days. These stations keep your electronics charged and handy as you cook, whether you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other devices.

The Benefits of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

1. Customization

Every kitchen at Regalo Kitchens is created to satisfy specific needs and tastes of the homeowner. Regalo Kitchens provide total customization possibilities, from picking the perfect hardware to the ideal wood finish. This makes sure that your traditional modular kitchen design incorporates your unique aesthetic while offering all the modern features you want.

Increased Efficiency

Modern appliances with touchless faucets and other high-tech features simplify cooking and save you time and effort. Having everything at your fingertips allows you to cook meals more quickly and easily.

Enhanced Safety

In every kitchen, safety is the primary concern. High-tech modular designs include a number of measures that improve safety. For instance, induction cooktops lower the danger of burns by heating the pan alone, not the surrounding environment. Additionally, voice-controlled systems reduce accidents by enabling you to operate appliances without having to touch them.

Improved Aesthetics

Modern modular kitchens are not only functional, but also stylish. Modern appliances, integrated lighting, and modern layouts combine to create a smart and fashionable space that improves the appearance of the entire house.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important factor in the design of many advanced kitchen appliances. Energy-saving appliances, water-conserving faucets, and LED lights not only save energy costs but also lessen the impact on the environment.

Customization

The variety of modular kitchen design is one of their main benefits. Your kitchen's features, layout, and design can all be customized to fit your unique requirements and way of life. A kitchen module can be customized to fit your tastes, whether you're more into a simple or classic style.

Regalo Kitchens: Leading the Way in High-Tech Modular Kitchen Designs

Our team of highly skilled designers at Regalo Kitchens collaborates closely with you to comprehend your requirements and preferences. To guarantee that your customized kitchen is a perfect match for your house, we provide individualized design consultations.

Professional Advice on Design

Traditional patterns are always in trend. Even when fashions shift, a traditional kitchen that is modular will always seem modern and stylish because of its timeless beauty. A traditional design kitchen is an excellent option if you want it to look beautiful every year.

Premium Materials

Every kitchen we design starts with quality. For a long-lasting kitchen, we only utilize the best materials, from durable countertops to exquisite cabinetry.

Modern Technology

When it comes to incorporating technology into kitchen design, Regalo Kitchens is at the forefront. We use the newest technologies to improve your cooking experience, from smart equipment to creative storage options.

Client Satisfaction

Our goal is to provide an experience rather than merely a kitchen. From design to installation, we are committed to making sure our clients are happy with every element of their customizable kitchen.

Conclusion

The future of cooking is represented by high-tech modular kitchen design. Smart technology has been integrated into these kitchens to provide outstanding functionality, efficiency, and style. Using high-tech modular designs can make your cooking area seem contemporary, well-equipped, and luxurious, whether you're updating an old kitchen or designing a brand-new one.The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is here to assist you in undergoing that change. Our skills, first-rate materials, and state-of-the-art technology enable us to realize your perfect kitchen. The modular kitchen design from Regalo Kitchens is the first step towards the kitchen revolution of the future.

[nickgerlich]

Food For Thought

It’s a familiar refrain in my blogs, one my students will pick up on after a few weeks of reading. To know me is to know I am a storyteller. I love to hark back to my wonder years and spin yarns about how life was like back in the good old days.

So without any further ado, I’ll start today’s blog with my favorite opening phrase: “I remember when…”

Oh yes, I remember. The late-1970s and early-1980s were tough economically. If you think inflation is bad now, ask your parents and grandparents what it was like then. And if you think that getting a mortgage today is simply out of the question, ask them about that too. Why? Because both inflation and mortgage rates were double-digit. It took a long time for everything to settle down. Heck, I bought my house in 1989 at 9%, and I thought that was a good deal.

Can you imagine the political football that would have been in last night’s Presidential Debate?

Anyway, back to the story. I was finishing up my undergrad degree, and moving to Indiana University in Bloomington to start grad school. My buddy and I had an apartment, so there was no cafeteria at which we could seek culinary refuge. We were on our own. And buying groceries was a tough proposition.

Things were so bad that manufacturers launched what was known as generics, food products in bland packaging without any kind of branding whatsoever. They were much cheaper than the nationally-branded products, as well as the private label products many large retail chains offered. The food was good, even if we were getting all of the irregulars, like the oddly-shaped peach halves, beans, and other canned items.

There was a stigma attached to buying those plain white or yellow cans with the black stripe. Your shopping cart may as well been screaming “I’m poor! I’m poor!” Generics became the butt of jokes back then, and at the expense of the people who needed them the most.

Once the economy recovered, generics went away, leaving us with national and private brands, with the latter recently coming into prominence once again during the current round of inflation. Walmart and Target have doubled down on their private label brands, launching several successful lines. Chains like Aldi and Trader Joe’s are about 85% private label.

And now Amazon has joined the fray. While they have also had private label goods in both their food and non-food products, they announced the arrival of a new line of even cheaper private label foods, Amazon Saver. One look at the packaging and I was transported back in time 40 years to generics, because these very closely resemble them, aside from the subtle Amazon branding at the top of the label.

In other words, these are ��almost generic,” and positioned to appeal to the most cash-strapped customers. They will be available in Amazon’s small but growing number of grocery stores, as well as online. Most items come in under $5. Of course, only dry goods can be shipped, although if you live within range of their store, home delivery can be arranged for everything in the new line.

Amazon’s entrant signals their longstanding desire to break into the grocery business in a big way, something it has had limited success with so far, aside from its Whole Foods division. Groceries are an evergreen category, meaning that we buy them year-round. While margins in the food biz are low (think 20-22% gross profit on products, and 1-2% net profit at the store level), volume makes up for it. We have to eat.

These new items have to be good, though, or at least good enough to pass consumer muster. Consumers might be willing to sacrifice a little, but not a lot. After all, what we put in our mouth is of high importance.

As with private labels, Amazon must contract with food manufacturers to purchase their unused capacity. While there are some food companies that produce only private labels, the majority of the private labels (and the generics of yore) are from very familiar companies who find it in their best interests to utilize their capacity, even if it effectively means they are creating their own competition.

Still, the stark, blunt wording on the packaging reminds me of the generic days during grad school. “Pancake Syrup,” “Sweet Peas,” and so forth merely tell us what’s inside. Marketing hyperbole is kept to a minimum, with only the Amazon Saver micro-branding visible. That’s another way of saying they didn’t waste any money hiring graphic designers to craft fancy logos, characters, and so forth. Just the food, ma’am.

One other thing to consider: For those who don’t have an Amazon Fresh store near them, online ordering is the only other option. But the poorest among us are also the least likely to shop online, because that requires credit and debit cards. While Amazon has ventured into accepting state- and federal assistance payments for food, it’s a clunky proposition. Thus, the new line will likely appeal most to those a little less stressed financially, like the middle class.

The bottom line, though, is that this is a solid move by Amazon, and even if inflation stays relatively low, it is highly doubtful that prices will go down, except for promotions. That leaves everyone else trying to catch up, no small feat when all the other costs of living have skyrocketed. Good on Amazon for seeing an opportunity, and seizing it. I can only wish we had this in the early-80s.

Dr “What’s On Your Plate?” Gerlich

Audio Blog

[isitwrongtotrytopickup---dragons]

!!! Please read with an open mind.

Consent has not always been "for purchase". As someone who grew up indigenous and who's work focuses on decolonization as an adult, what you're saying sounds like a very colonial and capitalistic view on consent. You're not a machine that just "has skills" and it's "consent depends on payment", there's no coin slot. Consent is far more complex than that and your skills are not inherent to you, they're learnt. Much like the concept of consent itself. Learnt. In a particular social context and culture.

Before colonization, our idea of consent had nothing to do with payment. There was no "if you pay me then I will..." because consent has to be freely given, without "ifs". My main problem with what you describe is that it sounds like putting payment first and consent as a secondary result of payment. When consent cannot be the secondary result of anything to be freely given, it has to be your primary concern.

It's not that consent cannot have conditions, of course it does. But those conditions you set for yourself have to be decided for yourself and not coerced into you by the system you live in.

The socioeconomic context in which you'd be giving consent is the problem here. There is no consensual "if you pay me I'll do this thing I hate" because there's the capitalistic guillotine above your head when you make this choice. The countless consequences of not having a source of income. Your access to food, shelter, health, all is limited.

In pre-colonial societies, this didn't happen. In fact, now you got it backwards. You do a job because you want to dedicate your life to this pursuit. You choose your profession freely. And then because that profession is important for the well-being of the entire rest of the community or for whatever reason the fruits of your labor are valued and appreciated, all the others will support you in whatever capacity they can (offering in exchange the fruits of their own labor, from their own different professions).

Those "unwanted" jobs that are tiresome or "gross" or for whatever reason most people don't really want to do, we do in community, because it's often things that we all have in common and we all need to do or get done, and so we do them for our communal wellbeing. Even things that some enjoy and some don't, we did and still do in community. That way, those who enjoy it also enjoy the company, and those who don't, don't have to do it all by themselves. And nobody was getting paid or coerced into any of it. From cleaning every corner of a house to funerals to delivering messages from town to town to working in the fields. Communal work and communal events.

It's all cool if you choose to do something nobody else wants to do, and you just so happen to be paid for it because others see it as necessary and are grateful that you chose to help them with that. Work first, appreciation from a communal need guarantees that you'll receive something in return (not necessarily payment in the western idea of $$$). What is not ok is to be forced into a capitalistic system then coerced into doing something you don't want to do because you need the money to live. There is a difference. And pretending that difference doesn't exist or that there are no other possible systems to live in perpetuates capitalism and colonialism.

The reality is, not only are most people incredibly separated from the concept of community and communal living, in this individualistic capitalistic society that the idea of having a group of people you trust helping you to clean your home, let alone your toilet, sounds crazy to some, but also people just don't see how many jobs we have today are not needed, like, at all. They only exist as new ways for billionaires to fill their pockets even more.

Billionaires are creating new bullshit every day (see crypto, AI, god knows what else now) and that creates "new job opportunities!" which people celebrate and all, but is crypto truly needed for human survival? no. Does it have any cultural value? no. Does it hold any real weight for the wider community? no. But people are still going to get paid for working on it. People chase the money, a million goes to the billionaire's pocket and a penny goes to the worker, and when it's hard to come by pennies in a particular field due to "competition" and artificial scarcity, they create a completely new bullshit job to give people some other unnecessary thing to do that will give them money to chase after, and the wheel of capitalism keeps turning.

The money can never be the focus if you want an ethical and sustainable work. There's no ethical consumption under capitalism and there's no consent under capitalism. I wouldn't say that "that's not a bad thing" unless you consider capitalism your preferred and desired system to live on.

It sounds like a pretty self-destructive thing to me, heck, it sounds like a pretty ecologically damaging thing to me. And I would personally qualify those two things as bad, for the person and for the environment. But that's just my view as an indigenous person. Obviously some people like, say, white billionaires, would beg to differ.

Consent has always been for purchase and that's not a bad thing.

I did not scrub toilets out of the goodness of my heart. My consent to do so was for sale, we agreed on a price and then I did it.

I did not deliver newspapers out of the goodness of my heart. My consent to do so was for sale, we agreed on a price and then he fucked me around so I quit.

This applies to all work. You have skills, consent to use those skills for someone else depends on them paying you.

[bell-arina271]

Day 3 of building Elsa's Ice Palace

So I’ve had another cut into my expense. My mother was talking about the animal shelter in our city (she followed them on facebook after our dog ran away to see if he’d show up) and was saying how they’re beyond full capacity and are begging people for donations and help with fostering puppies and kittens.

Honestly I get my bleeding heart from her, so we both felt bad for them lol. The issue is that my mother is basically handicapped, she doesn’t have the physical capacity to meet demands caring for baby animals, and while I do have it, my work is very unpredictable. Just this week I’ll be doing two 12 hour shifts. You can’t exactly leave puppies or kittens alone for 12 hours.

But it did make me realize that my new house will have basement that I could easily foster animals in. It’s cool for the summer, and with a baby gate near the stairs it would be a safe place for any rambunctious puppies (kittens I think can climb those things, though I’m not sure about that lol). Either way it’s a plan I can’t really start for 2 months, even if I do end up doing it.

I don’t know, it’s something I’ll think about the next couple of days, because my family knows a thing or two about animals and it would be really helpful to the shelter. For now I just donated a few items to help. I can’t spare much atm, but I can spare about $50, so that’s enough for a bag of dog food, cat food, and some cat litter. Sometimes it’s just the little things that help.

Besides that, I had a doctor’s appointment, and a practice coaching session. The coaching session went a lot better than I anticipated- I may actually have a knack for this. If I can manage to make a decent living as a coach, it will make a good, flexible second income, which will help my plans.

I finally heard back from the seller, (after like, a day lol) they countered my offer at only 4,000 more, and agreed to the seller’s concessions, which in my opinion sounds really good. Now I just have to sign the offer, and move onto the next step!

This won’t help this immediate house, but I did start thinking of what I want to do for Elsa’s Ice Palace once I have the funds.

This is a rough brainstorm of what I want to set up and what sort of features it should have. It’s not really a theme park but moreso a winter wonderland kind of deal. A place where families can go enjoy the snow and have fun together, and tour the castle. I want to keep it cheap, like roughly $20-$40 admission for people, just to keep the electricity running and the like. Again, this is just a rough brainstorm, so it’s subject to change, but it helps to at least get all my thoughts down.

[dwellordream]

“...A lone woman could, if she spun in almost every spare minute of her day, on her own keep a small family clothed in minimum comfort (and we know they did that). Adding a second spinner – even if they were less efficient (like a young girl just learning the craft or an older woman who has lost some dexterity in her hands) could push the household further into the ‘comfort’ margin, and we have to imagine that most of that added textile production would be consumed by the family (because people like having nice clothes!).

At the same time, that rate of production is high enough that a household which found itself bereft of (male) farmers (for instance due to a draft or military mortality) might well be able to patch the temporary hole in the family finances by dropping its textile consumption down to that minimum and selling or trading away the excess, for which there seems to have always been demand. ...Consequently, the line between women spinning for their own household and women spinning for the market often must have been merely a function of the financial situation of the family and the balance of clothing requirements to spinners in the household unit (much the same way agricultural surplus functioned).

Moreover, spinning absolutely dominates production time (again, around 85% of all of the labor-time, a ratio that the spinning wheel and the horizontal loom together don’t really change). This is actually quite handy, in a way, as we’ll see, because spinning (at least with a distaff) could be a mobile activity; a spinner could carry their spindle and distaff with them and set up almost anywhere, making use of small scraps of time here or there.

On the flip side, the labor demands here are high enough prior to the advent of better spinning and weaving technology in the Late Middle Ages (read: the spinning wheel, which is the truly revolutionary labor-saving device here) that most women would be spinning functionally all of the time, a constant background activity begun and carried out whenever they weren’t required to be actively moving around in order to fulfill a very real subsistence need for clothing in climates that humans are not particularly well adapted to naturally. The work of the spinner was every bit as important for maintaining the household as the work of the farmer and frankly students of history ought to see the two jobs as necessary and equal mirrors of each other.

At the same time, just as all farmers were not free, so all spinners were not free. It is abundantly clear that among the many tasks assigned to enslaved women within ancient households. Xenophon lists training the enslaved women of the household in wool-working as one of the duties of a good wife (Xen. Oik. 7.41). ...Columella also emphasizes that the vilica ought to be continually rotating between the spinners, weavers, cooks, cowsheds, pens and sickrooms, making use of the mobility that the distaff offered while her enslaved husband was out in the fields supervising the agricultural labor (of course, as with the bit of Xenophon above, the same sort of behavior would have been expected of the free wife as mistress of her own household).

...Consequently spinning and weaving were tasks that might be shared between both relatively elite women and far poorer and even enslaved women, though we should be sure not to take this too far. Doubtless it was a rather more pleasant experience to be the wealthy woman supervising enslaved or hired hands working wool in a large household than it was to be one of those enslaved women, or the wife of a very poor farmer desperately spinning to keep the farm afloat and the family fed. The poor woman spinner – who spins because she lacks a male wage-earner to support her – is a fixture of late medieval and early modern European society and (as J.S. Lee’s wage data makes clear; spinners were not paid well) must have also had quite a rough time of things.

It is difficult to overstate the importance of household textile production in the shaping of pre-modern gender roles. It infiltrates our language even today; a matrilineal line in a family is sometimes called a ‘distaff line,’ the female half of a male-female gendered pair is sometimes the ‘distaff counterpart’ for the same reason. Women who do not marry are sometimes still called ‘spinsters’ on the assumption that an unmarried woman would have to support herself by spinning and selling yarn (I’m not endorsing these usages, merely noting they exist).

E.W. Barber (Women’s Work, 29-41) suggests that this division of labor, which holds across a wide variety of societies was a product of the demands of the one necessarily gendered task in pre-modern societies: child-rearing. Barber notes that tasks compatible with the demands of keeping track of small children are those which do not require total attention (at least when full proficiency is reached; spinning is not exactly an easy task, but a skilled spinner can very easily spin while watching someone else and talking to a third person), can easily be interrupted, is not dangerous, can be easily moved, but do not require travel far from home; as Barber is quick to note, producing textiles (and spinning in particular) fill all of these requirements perfectly and that “the only other occupation that fits the criteria even half so well is that of preparing the daily food” which of course was also a female-gendered activity in most ancient societies. Barber thus essentially argues that it was the close coincidence of the demands of textile-production and child-rearing which led to the dominant paradigm where this work was ‘women’s work’ as per her title.

(There is some irony that while the men of patriarchal societies of antiquity – which is to say effectively all of the societies of antiquity – tended to see the gendered division of labor as a consequence of male superiority, it is in fact male incapability, particularly the male inability to nurse an infant, which structured the gendered division of labor in pre-modern societies, until the steady march of technology rendered the division itself obsolete. Also, and Barber points this out, citing Judith Brown, we should see this is a question about ability rather than reliance, just as some men did spin, weave and sew (again, often in a commercial capacity), so too did some women farm, gather or hunt. It is only the very rare and quite stupid person who will starve or freeze merely to adhere to gender roles and even then gender roles were often much more plastic in practice than stereotypes make them seem.)

Spinning became a central motif in many societies for ideal womanhood. Of course one foot of the fundament of Greek literature stands on the Odyssey, where Penelope’s defining act of arete is the clever weaving and unweaving of a burial shroud to deceive the suitors, but examples do not stop there. Lucretia, one of the key figures in the Roman legends concerning the foundation of the Republic, is marked out as outstanding among women because, when a group of aristocrats sneak home to try to settle a bet over who has the best wife, she is patiently spinning late into the night (with the enslaved women of her house working around her; often they get translated as ‘maids’ in a bit of bowdlerization. Any time you see ‘maids’ in the translation of a Greek or Roman text referring to household workers, it is usually quite safe to assume they are enslaved women) while the other women are out drinking (Liv. 1.57). This display of virtue causes the prince Sextus Tarquinius to form designs on Lucretia (which, being virtuous, she refuses), setting in motion the chain of crime and vengeance which will overthrow Rome’s monarchy. The purpose of Lucretia’s wool-working in the story is to establish her supreme virtue as the perfect aristocratic wife.

...For myself, I find that students can fairly readily understand the centrality of farming in everyday life in the pre-modern world, but are slower to grasp spinning and weaving (often tacitly assuming that women were effectively idle, or generically ‘homemaking’ in ways that precluded production). And students cannot be faulted for this – they generally aren’t confronted with this reality in classes or in popular culture. ...Even more than farming or blacksmithing, this is an economic and household activity that is rendered invisible in the popular imagination of the past, even as (as you can see from the artwork in this post) it was a dominant visual motif for representing the work of women for centuries.”

- Bret Devereaux, “Clothing, How Did They Make It? Part III: Spin Me Right Round…”

[stingslikeabee]

Desperate times called for desperate measures - or so Melissa reassured her neighbors upon remarking that she had, indeed, hired Daigo Dojima for a job. Until recently, their town had been considerably quiet and prosperous - nothing that set the place apart from a dozen other settlements bordering the woods, but hardly a miserable location. People were kind, the food was prepared with care, the homes were warm and their festivals joyful.

It was not where Melissa had been born - but it was where she found herself a home. The loving couple who took the girl in when she was barely old enough to remember much had taught her the ropes of that business - one that wasn't meant to been taken over so soon, all due to tragedy made manifest. Her foster parents' disappearance and the sparse evidence of torn clothes and blood trails, unfortunately, suggested the worst.

That had put the Melissa on a path - becoming inn keeper, securing a good marriage for her younger sisters and trying to honor their legacy to the best of her abilities. Offering a piece of her own home to strangers and making them feel good about it was the brunette's main talent... But one that had been called into action far less frequently; the attacks surrounding the village had grown to be numerous, and so did the victims.

Now, from a peaceful little town, their village had turned into a place to be avoided. The rumors about a dangerous beast (or more than one) hiding close by and waiting to strike had travelers giving up on going there altogether; but the roads to the capital still took some caravans and troupes through there, enough to keep her inn at roughly one third of its original capacity.

It was breaking her heart - the good friends missing, the men and women she chatted every day with sporting wounds and the whispered conversations. It was hurting the inn business, but also that of the other stores, food stalls, taverns and even the trusted apothecary. Assembling a village watch had not solved it - they needed professional help.

And Daigo Dojima, while... Unique in terms of reputation, was decidedly known for getting these threats eliminated.

Truth to be told, Melissa was surprised with the man - for one supposed to be so rough around the edges and a pariah among peers for his style, he was... Intriguing. By far the most exciting figure to cross into their little town in decades, with equipment the inn keeper had never seen and stories that could easily keep her awake by the fire on a colder night.

But during business hours, she tried her best to stay out of his way and to reward him with the best their kitchen had. The ale was particularly good, but not produced in-house - the roast, on the other hand... Melissa had taken care to put extra meat in, as she liked; Daigo was no small man and surely he would enjoy the generous portions, too.

Once her hands were relieved of the meal, the brunette sighed and picked up the skirts, moving to sit at his side. Despite not making a break for supper herself, there was no harm in a pause for idle conversation - besides, it was nothing that one of inn hands couldn't handle for the moment, with few guests around and hardly the busiest they were around the harvest festival.

"This is... The normal, I'm afraid. We used to have at least double the occupancy. Not necessarily during all year, but there is a remarkable drop in the number of people crossing nowadays. We were never the main destination... But now it feels as if most folk would make any detour they can rather than come to us."

Another sigh left her lips, and Melissa forced a smile out - it wouldn't do to just complain and now that Daigo was there, surely he would be able to help. As inn keeper and one of the local business owners, she had to be a good example of remaining faithful and optimistic. "How were things for you today? Any hopeful signs of the beast?" the woman inquired with interest, even if the topic was supposedly not one for the ladies, "I wish I had more useful information to share but I have never seen it myself - a fortunate thing, I'm led to believe."

closed for @stingslikeabee.

★. ―

Daigo leaned back in his chair, lifting the front feet off of the floor. He used this to wedge the back into the corner wall behind him. All through the afternoon, he had sat here — watching — like the perfect image of divine judgment. The inn's visitors were scattered away from him, clearly happy to have distance between themselves and the hunter.

The Reaper, they whispered, and Daigo smiled to himself, revealing his teeth. He was used to this sort of reception. Not many people knew what to do with him. His reputation was one of cruelty and violence, which had lead to the sentiment being established that to call upon him was an act of desperation. The only son of the Dojimas was a wild man ( or so they said ), and there was no soap strong enough to remove the thick smell of tobacco, alcohol, and gunpowder that surrounded him.

Daigo pulled out a long, thin brush from the beat up bag next to his feet. He used the peculiar instrument to clean the barrel of his pistol. It was in pieces at the moment, laid out across the surface, so that he could evaluate it. Every hunt, he refreshed his trusty guns, preparing them for the next quarry that they would help him bring down. Daigo's scarred, large fingers were surprisingly adept at these delicate tasks, and he performed them with such familiarity that he almost didn't have to look.

Instead, his black eyes stared out over the room. Dark hair hung down to his shoulders, limp and still damp from his bath. He was a formidable man : broad in the chest, at least a head taller than most folks, and obviously marked from his previous prey. The hunter dressed in leather and ink - colored fabrics, which lent to his grim appearance. His trademark heavy coat, decorated with bits of hanging bone and teeth from his kills, was draped over the nearest chair ; with it was his hat, a wide - brimmed black stetson that had a cleaned crow's skull and feathers attached to it.

Daigo was drawn out of his thoughts, though, by the arrival of another. He narrowed his eyes and leaned forward, bringing his chair back to flat ground with a muffled thump. The smell of roast and beer made his stomach growl. it was then that the hunter realized he had not ate anything yet. Scouting out the inn had taken him away from such ( boring ) concerns.

Clearing his throat, he nodded to the owner of the inn. Melissa, he remembered — a fine woman, by all accounts. Everyone he spoke with seemed to be fond of her. Daigo quickly re - assembled his pistol. The shining parts went back together seamlessly, and he laid the complete weapon back on the table with its rags and bullets. Pure silver glimmered in an open pouch.

He accepted the meal from Melissa with a thin smile and gestured for her to sit. "My thanks," Daigo said. A mouthful of beer cleared out his throat. "How is the inn managing today ?? You mentioned in your letter to me that this . . . creature had affected business. Do you still feel the same ??"

[regalokitchens18]

The Future Of Cooking: High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Source of info:https://www.regalokitchens.com/the-future-of-cooking-high-tech-modular-kitchen-design.php

Introduction

High-tech modular kitchen designs that combine style and innovation to provide a more smart and effective kitchen experience are the standard of the future for cooking. Kitchen modules are changing to fit the needs of modern lives as technology advances. These ideas, which range from automated systems to smart equipment, make cooking easier, enjoyable. and simple. The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is at the forefront of developing innovative customizable kitchen designs that improve your home's attractiveness while improving their functionality. See how Regalo Kitchens' advanced modular kitchen design can better your cooking.

What is a Modular Kitchen Design?

A modular kitchen design made out of already assembled modules or components is called a customizable kitchen design. The components come with appliances, worktops, drawers, and cabinets that are simple to fit together to provide a beautiful and useful kitchen space. The versatility of kitchen modules is what makes it so attractive, as it enables homeowners to customize the design to suit their own requirements and styles.

The Rise of High-Tech Modular Kitchens

Our kitchens continue to change along with technology. The capacity of high-tech modular kitchen designs to combine advanced technology with improved, functional layouts is contributing to their increasing attraction. These kitchens are meant to bring a little luxury to the house and make cooking simpler, quicker, and more enjoyable.

Key Features of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

Smart Appliances

Including smart appliances is one of the biggest developments in modular kitchen design. A variety of appliances make cooking more easier, from ovens that can be operated via smartphone applications to refrigerators that can monitor expiry dates. Smart appliances allow you to do things like set your oven to bake while you're still at work or get alerts when your groceries are about to run short.

Voice-Activated Systems

In modern kitchens, voice-activated appliances such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are currently typical. You can even get food recommendations and manage appliances and lighting with only a voice command. When you are cooking, this hands-free simplicity comes in very useful.

Touchless Faucets

Kitchen faucets that are touchless are unique. You can switch on or off the water with just one tap of your hand, which will stop germs from spreading and improve cleanup effectiveness. These energy-efficient and clean faucets also contribute to water saving.

Induction Cooktops

High-tech kitchen modules are almost always equipped with induction cooktops. Compared to conventional gas or electric stoves, these cooktops are quicker and more energy-efficient since they heat pots and pans directly using electromagnetic radiation. In order to make sure that your food is cooked to perfection, we also provide accurate temperature control.

Integrated Lighting

Any kitchen needs proper lighting, and modern modular designs elevate this feature to a whole new level. LED lighting that is built into counters, drawers, and cabinets offers energy-efficient, outstanding lighting. Even the lighting can be changed to fit the time of day or your mood.

Smart Storage Options:

Smart storage options enhance the space-efficient design of functional kitchens, which are already famous for it. Deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and corner carousels make it simple to get at everything you need without clogging up the kitchen. Even some systems include sensors that notify you when a component is running low.

Built-in Charging Stations

It makes sense to have a built-in charging station in your kitchen given how much we depend on technology these days. These stations keep your electronics charged and handy as you cook, whether you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other devices.

The Benefits of High-Tech Modular Kitchen Design

1. Customization

Every kitchen at Regalo Kitchens is created to satisfy specific needs and tastes of the homeowner. Regalo Kitchens provide total customization possibilities, from picking the perfect hardware to the ideal wood finish. This makes sure that your traditional modular kitchen design incorporates your unique aesthetic while offering all the modern features you want.

Increased Efficiency

Modern appliances with touchless faucets and other high-tech features simplify cooking and save you time and effort. Having everything at your fingertips allows you to cook meals more quickly and easily.

Enhanced Safety

In every kitchen, safety is the primary concern. High-tech modular designs include a number of measures that improve safety. For instance, induction cooktops lower the danger of burns by heating the pan alone, not the surrounding environment. Additionally, voice-controlled systems reduce accidents by enabling you to operate appliances without having to touch them.

Improved Aesthetics

Modern modular kitchens are not only functional, but also stylish. Modern appliances, integrated lighting, and modern layouts combine to create a smart and fashionable space that improves the appearance of the entire house.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important factor in the design of many advanced kitchen appliances. Energy-saving appliances, water-conserving faucets, and LED lights not only save energy costs but also lessen the impact on the environment.

Customization

The variety of modular kitchen design is one of their main benefits. Your kitchen's features, layout, and design can all be customized to fit your unique requirements and way of life. A kitchen module can be customized to fit your tastes, whether you're more into a simple or classic style.

Regalo Kitchens: Leading the Way in High-Tech Modular Kitchen Designs

Our team of highly skilled designers at Regalo Kitchens collaborates closely with you to comprehend your requirements and preferences. To guarantee that your customized kitchen is a perfect match for your house, we provide individualized design consultations.

Professional Advice on Design

Traditional patterns are always in trend. Even when fashions shift, a traditional kitchen that is modular will always seem modern and stylish because of its timeless beauty. A traditional design kitchen is an excellent option if you want it to look beautiful every year.

Premium Materials

Every kitchen we design starts with quality. For a long-lasting kitchen, we only utilize the best materials, from durable countertops to exquisite cabinetry.

Modern Technology

When it comes to incorporating technology into kitchen design, Regalo Kitchens is at the forefront. We use the newest technologies to improve your cooking experience, from smart equipment to creative storage options.

Client Satisfaction

Our goal is to provide an experience rather than merely a kitchen. From design to installation, we are committed to making sure our clients are happy with every element of their customizable kitchen.

Conclusion

The future of cooking is represented by high-tech modular kitchen design. Smart technology has been integrated into these kitchens to provide outstanding functionality, efficiency, and style. Using high-tech modular designs can make your cooking area seem contemporary, well-equipped, and luxurious, whether you're updating an old kitchen or designing a brand-new one.The best kitchen brand in India, Regalo Kitchens, is here to assist you in undergoing that change. Our skills, first-rate materials, and state-of-the-art technology enable us to realize your perfect kitchen. The modular kitchen design from Regalo Kitchens is the first step towards the kitchen revolution of the future.

[valkyrayn]

I am back have yOU SEEN THE PV ???

screaming without the s

ok ok ok but like I M A G I N E ???

Marius being a brat with his little grin. Teasing you as you sit on his lap while he tries to work on the dress. He can't fathom why you're squirming so much — he offers you a fake pout, "is it the pins?" He sounds concerned, and he does a good job faking it. The perfect lilt in his voice. The annoying pout on his face. You practically want to smack—or kiss—it off of him, but you don't know which anymore. It's all blurring together. His hands are touching too lightly for you to be truly satisfied; alternating just enough to take the edge off. Still, it feels so far away, so distant. You don't even remember when you started riding his thigh, and that didn't feel like you. Too needy. Too desperate. But you've been stuck like this for what feels like hours and it's chipping away at every part of your resolve—at first, it was genuine; dedication to his work that drove you slightly to distraction. You bit your lip and powered through. Close your eyes, you thought. Breathe. And it worked — for awhile. But then he wanted you to sit on his lap. It seemed innocent enough, but if you were thinking at full capacity, you would have realized the impracticality sooner. Before your thighs were planted over his knee. Before his hum rumbled through you. "Mm. A little closer?" And it had all fallen from there. So easily developed into something more and not enough all too soon. Never enough because he wouldn't just touch you. Something about the dress. Something about the pins. Something about his work. (This was not for his work.) He'd pulled you into his body, grabbed you by the waist and molded you against his chest. You feel the slide like pinpricks up your spine before it stops. Your head sits in the crook of his neck, and you can feel his voice when he speaks next. "Perfect." You wish you could see where he was looking, but you think you'd combust.

Is it so impractical. Everything about this is unlike you, but your nerve-endings are practically singing, and what harm would it be to get out of your skin a little? Just tonight? Just for him? You're hardly thinking. And frustratingly, you feel like he knows, because every shift of your hips brings a chuckle, a smirk, the slightest breath of air. It all reads as affirmation. So ... if Marius knows, and you know ...what's the harm?

Sliding that starts as a test. That picks up when he doesn't immediately stop you. Roaming hands and heavy breathing. Hearts pounding in unison. He lets you have your fun. For now. Lazy. Languid. Until you start getting vocal. Suddenly, his hands are at your hips again, making you gasp, and he's back to his usual self. Acting concerned when you struggle in his grasp. A "did I squeeze too tight, jie jie?" or "be careful, you wouldn't want to get hurt!" spoken in those normal, teasing tones that turn you on (god, why does it turn you on?!) infuriates you. Make no mistake. No matter how placid of an act he might play, Marius von Hagen will always be in control.

[also please make him a dom bottom I need that in my l i f e so so so sexy when a little bastard man does practically nothing but absolutely WRECKS thank you bless you have some food since you have given me so much]

GOOD GOD WTFUCK THIS IS SO FUCKING GOOD MY BRAIN IS MELTING. HELLO PLS I AM AN INSTANT FAN OF YOUR WRITING

THE TEASING HIS ROAMING HANDS?!?! THE WAY HE KNOWS HOW TURNED ON YOU ARE JUST FROM HIS TEASING GODDDHHDJDJD PLEASE tysm for feeding me such good food. i wanna yell and run laps around my house rn. WE NEED MORE MARIUS SMUT

and omg funny thing i was in the middle of writing a dom bottom marius. lets just he’s going to be gripping those hips so hard and make you ride him until you’re nothing but a vibrating trembling mess on top of him—getting impaled by his cock over and over again…

inhales EXHALES FUCK YOU MARIUS VON HAGEN