#noise report melbourne

[onsiteair]

The Role of Noise Reports in Melbourne’s Urban Environment

 In the vibrant and ever-evolving city of Melbourne, noise pollution has emerged as a significant concern, impacting residents’ quality of life and influencing urban planning decisions. As the city expands, the need for effective noise management becomes paramount. Noise reports serve as essential tools in assessing, understanding, and mitigating noise levels across various urban settings. This article explores the intricacies of Noise Report Melbourne, and how Clarity Acoustic is at the forefront of this crucial service. 

What is a Noise Report? 

A noise report is a comprehensive analysis that evaluates noise levels in a specific area. This report typically assesses existing noise sources, measures ambient noise levels, and provides recommendations for compliance with local regulations. Noise reports are critical for urban development projects, allowing stakeholders to address potential noise issues proactively. 

Key Components of a Noise Report 

Noise Measurement: Central to any noise report is the measurement of sound levels. This process involves using calibrated equipment to collect data at various times and locations, providing a clear picture of the ambient noise environment. 

Analysis of Noise Sources: A thorough investigation of the noise sources in the vicinity—such as traffic, construction, machinery, and other activities—is vital. Understanding these sources helps to contextualize the measurements and identify specific contributors to noise pollution. 

Regulatory Framework: Noise reports assess compliance with local government regulations and guidelines, such as those set by the Victorian Environment Protection Authority (EPA). This ensures that any proposed developments adhere to established noise standards. 

Mitigation Strategies: Based on the findings, the report may recommend various mitigation strategies to minimize noise impact. These can include structural solutions, operational changes, or specific construction practices aimed at reducing sound transmission. 

The Importance of Noise Reports 

1. Urban Planning and Development 

Melbourne is experiencing rapid growth, and with this expansion comes an increased risk of noise pollution. Local councils require noise reports to evaluate how new developments may affect existing communities. These assessments provide essential data that influence planning decisions, helping to create a balance between development and residential comfort. 

2. Community Health and Well-Being 

Excessive noise can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health. Research shows that prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to stress, sleep disturbances, and other health issues. Noise reports help identify problematic areas and suggest mitigation measures, ultimately enhancing community well-being. 

3. Legal Compliance and Risk Management 

Compliance with noise regulations is not just a legal obligation but also a means of managing risk for developers and businesses. A well-prepared noise report serves as documentation to demonstrate adherence to local laws, reducing the likelihood of disputes or legal challenges related to noise pollution. 

4. Environmental Stewardship 

Noise is recognized as a significant environmental issue that can disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife. By conducting noise assessments, stakeholders can better understand the environmental impacts of sound, supporting sustainable development practices that consider both human and ecological health. 

The Noise Reporting Process in Melbourne 

1. Initial Consultation 

The noise reporting process begins with an initial consultation between Clarity Acoustic and the client. During this discussion, the scope of the project is defined, and specific requirements for the noise assessment are established. 

2. Field Measurements 

Following the consultation, the team conducts field measurements to capture existing noise levels. This phase typically involves strategically placing monitoring equipment to collect data over an extended period, capturing variations in noise due to different times of day and types of activity. 

3. Data Analysis 

Once the data has been collected, it is analyzed to identify patterns and key noise sources. This analysis is critical for understanding how the noise environment interacts with the surrounding area and for developing tailored recommendations. 

4. Report Generation 

The findings from the analysis are compiled into a detailed noise report. This document includes the results of the noise measurements, an evaluation of compliance with relevant regulations, and specific mitigation strategies aimed at addressing identified issues. 

5. Stakeholder Engagement 

After the report is generated, Clarity Acoustic engages with stakeholders to discuss the findings. This collaboration ensures that all parties understand the implications of the noise report and the recommended actions. 

Services Offered by Clarity Acoustic 

Clarity Acoustic provides a wide array of services related to noise assessment and management in Melbourne, catering to both residential and commercial clients: 

1. Comprehensive Noise Assessments 

Clarity Acoustic offers detailed noise assessments for various applications, including urban development, construction projects, and environmental evaluations. These assessments are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. 

2. Pre-Construction and Post-Construction Evaluations 

Before construction begins, Clarity Acoustic conducts pre-construction noise evaluations to identify potential issues. After construction, post-construction assessments verify compliance with noise regulations and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented mitigation measures. 

3. Environmental Noise Assessments 

These assessments focus on the impact of environmental noise on sensitive areas such as schools, hospitals, and residential neighborhoods. They provide critical data that inform urban planning and community engagement strategies. 

4. Expert Consulting and Advocacy 

Clarity Acoustic’s team of experts offers consulting services to help clients navigate the complexities of noise regulations. Their advocacy supports best practices in noise management, ensuring that stakeholders are well-informed and compliant. 

Conclusion 

Noise reports are vital instruments in managing and mitigating noise pollution in Melbourne, directly influencing urban planning, community health, and environmental stewardship. Through detailed assessments and expert recommendations,Clarity Acoustic helps clients navigate the complexities of noise regulation and compliance. By prioritizing noise management, Melbourne can continue to thrive as a dynamic and livable city, ensuring that its residents enjoy a harmonious and healthy urban environment. Understanding the role and importance of noise reports is crucial for developers, local authorities, and the community in fostering a sustainable future for Melbourne. 

[pucksandpower]

Die With a Smile

Charles Leclerc x death!Reader

Summary: desperation is a dangerous thing — six seasons without a World Drivers’ Championship has left Charles willing to do anything for glory … even pay the ultimate price (or in which Charles Leclerc sacrifices everything for Ferrari and, thanks to you, learns that death is nothing like he expected)

Warnings: major character death

Charles Leclerc has always been one for precision. Calculated. Calm. But now? Now there’s nothing left. Precision has eroded into a recklessness that terrifies and excites him in equal measure. The pursuit of glory is the only thing keeping him tethered to reality.

Melbourne is hot, the air thick and sticky with anticipation. He stands in the paddock, helmet in hand, eyes tracing over the sea of faces. Reporters, mechanics, engineers — all of them moving with purpose. The season begins here, but he can’t shake this feeling that something else is starting too.

He frowns, scanning the crowd again. Something — or someone — has caught his attention.

You stand there, leaning against a barrier, watching him. Quiet, still. You don’t belong in this chaos, yet somehow, you fit. It's not like the usual glances from fans or the admiring stares from strangers. No, this is different. He doesn’t know why, but the sight of you pulls him in, like a thread slowly unraveling.

His grip tightens around the helmet. “Who’s that?” He mutters under his breath, half to himself, half to anyone nearby.

Pierre, standing a few feet away, catches the tail end of his question and follows his gaze. “Who?”

“There.” Charles nods subtly toward you. You’re still there, eyes locked on him. Unblinking. He swallows hard.

Pierre shrugs, oblivious. “No clue. Probably a fan or something. You good?”

Charles doesn’t answer. You’re not a fan. You’re something else. His heart thuds in his chest, a slow, deliberate beat, like a countdown. He can almost hear it. Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

“I’m fine,” he says, but the words feel empty. He’s not fine. He feels like he’s balancing on the edge of something dangerous, and you’re the reason why.

Suddenly, the world around him — the voices, the clamor of the paddock — fades, and it’s just you and him. You, watching him with a calmness that unnerves him. And him, standing there, frozen, unable to look away.

“I’ll see you after the race,” Pierre says, giving him a pat on the shoulder before disappearing into the crowd. Charles doesn’t even register his friend’s departure.

He doesn’t move, his body rooted to the spot as if some unseen force has pinned him in place. It’s stupid. Ridiculous. Why can’t he look away?

There’s a flicker in your eyes — something fleeting, something dark. His pulse quickens. He knows that look. He’s seen it before, in mirrors, in the faces of men with nothing left to lose.

But you … you wear it differently. Effortlessly.

Charles takes a step toward you. His boots hit the asphalt with a dull thud, and suddenly, he’s walking, moving through the crowd without really seeing anyone. His focus narrows, sharp and deadly. He can feel it, the pull, the way his every step is dragging him closer to something he can’t explain.

And then he’s standing in front of you.

You don’t smile. You don’t say anything. You just watch him, your expression unreadable, like you’re waiting for something.

His throat is dry. “Who are you?”

For a moment, silence stretches between you, thick and unyielding. And then you tilt your head, ever so slightly, as if considering the question.

“Does it matter?” Your voice is soft, almost too soft, but it cuts through the noise around them like a blade.

He blinks, thrown off balance. He expected — he doesn’t know what he expected. Something more. Something less. But not this.

“Yeah,” he says, swallowing hard, “I think it does.”

You shift your weight, crossing your arms over your chest, but your eyes never leave his. “And why is that?”

He hesitates. Why does it matter? He’s not sure. All he knows is that standing here, with you in front of him, he feels something heavy pressing down on him. Like time is slipping through his fingers, like he’s running out of chances, running out of-

“You’re in my head,” he says, more to himself than to you, his voice barely above a whisper. “Why are you in my head?”

You don’t answer right away, but your gaze sharpens, something dangerous lurking beneath the surface. “Maybe because you’ve been looking for me.”

His breath catches. “What?”

“You don’t realize it yet, but you’ve been waiting for this. For me.”

The words hit him like a punch to the gut. He feels like the ground beneath him is shifting, like everything he thought he knew about himself is crumbling.

“You’re wrong,” he says, but his voice lacks conviction. “I’m not waiting for anything.”

You raise an eyebrow, and for the first time, a ghost of a smile tugs at the corner of your lips. It’s not a kind smile. It��s knowing. Cold.

“Aren’t you?”

He doesn’t answer. Can’t. The world around them feels suddenly smaller, the air thicker, like it’s closing in on him.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

That sound again. It’s louder now, reverberating in his skull.

“You’re scared,” you say, and it’s not a question.

“I’m not scared.”

“You should be.”

He opens his mouth to argue, but no words come out. Because you’re right. He is scared. But not of you. He’s scared of what you represent. Of the way his pulse pounds in his ears, the way his chest feels tight with something he doesn’t understand.

And you know it. You see right through him.

“This season,” you say, your voice low, “it’s your last, isn’t it?”

He stiffens. “What do you mean?”

“You don’t expect to come out of this alive.”

He laughs, but it’s bitter, hollow. “I don’t have a choice. I either win, or …”

“Or you die.”

His breath hitches. The way you say it, so matter-of-fact, so final — it shakes him. Because it’s true. He’s been feeling it for months, this gnawing sense that if he doesn’t win the championship, there’s nothing left for him. He’ll push until he breaks. And he doesn’t care anymore.

But how do you know that? How could you possibly know?

“You don’t get to decide that,” he snaps, more harshly than he intends.

You don’t flinch. “You’re right. I don’t.”

The implication hangs between you, unspoken but loud. There’s something inevitable about this. Something neither of you can control.

He takes a step back, suddenly needing space, air — anything to break the tension building between you. But even as he moves, he can still feel the weight of your gaze on him, can still hear the ticking in his head, louder and louder, counting down to something he can’t escape.

“You’re wrong,” he says again, though this time, it’s more for himself than for you. “I’ll win. I’ll be fine.”

You don’t argue. You just watch him, that cold, knowing smile still playing at the edges of your lips.

“We’ll see,” you say, your voice barely above a whisper.

And just like that, you turn and walk away, disappearing into the crowd as quickly as you appeared, leaving him standing there, heart racing, mind spinning.

He should be focusing on the race. On the championship. On everything he’s spent his entire life chasing.

But all he can think about is you. And the way his time feels like it’s running out.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

***

The roar of the engine fills his ears, drowning out everything else. The speed is intoxicating, the way the car moves beneath him, barely hanging on to the asphalt, the tires biting into the corners with every turn. He’s pushing harder than he should — he knows it, and he doesn’t care.

Spa is unforgiving today. The clouds hang low, threatening rain, and the track is slick, treacherous. Charles feels the tension in his body, every muscle taut, every nerve on edge. There’s no margin for error here. He’s on the edge, teetering, dancing with disaster. But that’s where he’s been living for months now — on the edge.

He downshifts hard coming out of Blanchimont, the rear of the car twitching beneath him. His heart pounds against his ribcage. He’s faster than he needs to be — faster than is safe. But he can’t let up. The rest of the field is closing in, and the gap between him and the car ahead is shrinking. Just a little more, just-

Then, suddenly, the car snaps.

A violent jolt sends him skidding off the track, the rear tires giving way, and for a brief, horrifying second, he loses control. The world tilts, and all he sees is the blur of gravel and barriers rushing toward him. Instinct takes over. His hands are a blur on the steering wheel as he fights to regain control. The tires scream against the ground, the car skidding sideways, throwing him against the seat belts with bone-rattling force.

“Come on, come on,” he mutters through gritted teeth, his heart pounding in his throat. He’s losing it, the car sliding further into the runoff area, the barrier looming closer.

But then — somehow — he recovers. The car snaps back into line, and he breathes out a shaky breath, his knuckles white from gripping the wheel. He’s back on the track, the car steady beneath him, but his heart is still racing, adrenaline coursing through his veins.

“Charles, are you okay?” His engineer’s voice crackles through the radio, tense and urgent.

“Yeah,” he breathes, his voice shaky. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

But he’s not fine. His hands are trembling, his vision is still blurred with the image of the gravel, the barrier — the almost crash. For a split second, he saw it. Saw what could have happened. What should have happened if his reflexes hadn’t kicked in.

He pulls the car to a slow halt, off the track now, coming to rest just inside the gravel trap. The engine hums, a low, steady sound that does nothing to calm him.

He sits there, breathing heavily, his head resting against the seat, eyes closed. He’s been reckless before, but this? This was different. He came so close to-

And then he feels it.

A presence.

His eyes snap open, and there you are. Standing just beyond the fence, not more than twenty feet from where his car rests. You’re watching him, the same way you did in Melbourne, your gaze locked on him with that unnerving calm that makes the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

For a moment, he wonders if he’s imagining it. The adrenaline is still pumping, his mind is spinning, and maybe — just maybe — you’re a hallucination. But no. You’re real. You’re standing there, just beyond the track, watching him.

His breath catches in his throat.

“Charles, talk to us. Do you need assistance?” His engineer’s voice comes through the radio again, but he can’t respond. He’s frozen, staring at you through the shattered remnants of the race.

“Charles?” The voice repeats, more urgent now.

But he can’t tear his eyes away from you.

You tilt your head slightly, as if you’re considering something, as if you’re weighing his fate in your hands. And then, without a word, you take a step closer to the fence, your eyes never leaving his.

“Not yet,” you say, your voice somehow carrying through the din, through the chaos of the race and the pounding of his heart. It’s soft, almost a whisper, but he hears it as clearly as if you’re standing right next to him. “But soon.”

His blood runs cold.

He knows what you mean. He knows, deep down, that this is a warning. He can feel it, the weight of it pressing down on him, like the ticking of a clock in the back of his mind, counting down to something inevitable.

He swallows hard, trying to regain some semblance of control, but the words stick in his throat. “Who — who are you?” He manages to choke out, his voice barely above a whisper.

You don’t answer. You never answer. Instead, you just watch him, your expression unreadable, like you already know how this ends.

The world around him feels distant now, like everything is moving in slow motion. The sound of the engines, the cheers of the crowd — it all fades into the background, leaving just you and him, locked in this strange, silent moment.

“Charles, we need you to respond,” the engineer’s voice cuts in again, breaking the spell for just a second.

He fumbles for the radio, his hand shaking as he presses the button. “I’m — I’m fine,” he says, his voice strained. “Give me a minute.”

There’s a pause on the other end, but they don’t push him further. Not yet.

He exhales slowly, trying to steady himself, trying to make sense of what’s happening. He’s been reckless, yes. But this? This feels like more than just a close call. This feels like a warning. Like you’re here to remind him of something he’s been trying to ignore.

“Why are you here?” He asks, his voice barely audible over the hum of the car.

You don’t move. Don’t speak. But your eyes — they tell him everything. You’re here because of him. Because of the choices he’s making, the risks he’s taking. You’re here because he’s running out of time.

“You said … in Melbourne …” His voice trails off as he struggles to find the words. He remembers what you said. That he’s been looking for you, even if he didn’t realize it. That his time was running out.

And now, here you are. Again. Watching him.

“I don’t need you,” he says suddenly, his voice rising with a mixture of anger and fear. “I’m not done yet.”

Your expression doesn’t change. You don’t flinch. It’s as if you’ve heard these words a thousand times before.

“I will win,” he says, more to himself than to you. “I’m going to win.”

You take a step closer to the fence, your gaze unwavering. “We’ll see.”

The words hang in the air, heavy and final. He can’t tell if it’s a promise or a threat. Maybe it’s both.

He clenches his fists around the steering wheel, the leather cool against his skin. He wants to shout at you, to demand answers, to make you go away. But deep down, he knows you’re not the kind of thing you can just wish away. You’re something else. Something bigger. Something he doesn’t understand.

And yet, you’re here. Watching. Waiting.

“I don’t have a choice,” he mutters, his voice breaking. “I have to win.”

You don’t answer. You don’t need to. The truth is already hanging between you.

Tick. Tock.

He can hear it again. That ticking. It’s louder now, more insistent, like the hands of a clock speeding up, racing toward some unseen finish line.

Charles shakes his head, as if trying to clear the sound from his mind. But it’s no use. The ticking is there, buried deep in his skull, a reminder that time is slipping away.

“I can still do this,” he whispers, almost desperately. “I can still win.”

Your gaze softens, just for a moment, and he wonders if you feel sorry for him. If you pity him.

“Maybe,” you say, and it’s the closest thing to compassion he’s heard from you. “But at what cost?”

He opens his mouth to respond, but the words die in his throat. Because he doesn’t know. He doesn’t know what it will cost him. He doesn’t want to know.

You take one last, lingering look at him, your eyes scanning his face as if memorizing every detail, and then you turn, your figure disappearing into the haze of the track, swallowed up by the world beyond the fence.

He sits there, still trembling, still shaken. His fingers slowly unclench from the steering wheel, and he lets out a long, ragged breath.

“Charles?” His engineer’s voice again, but softer this time. “Are you okay? We’re ready to bring you back in.”

He doesn’t respond right away. His mind is still reeling, still stuck in that moment when you stood there, just beyond the fence, watching him. Judging him.

“I’m coming in,” he finally says, his voice hoarse.

The car hums back to life as he nudges it forward, back onto the track. But his hands are still shaking. His pulse is still racing.

And in the back of his mind, the ticking continues.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

***

The rain is relentless in Suzuka. Sheets of water hammer down on the track, turning every corner into a hazard, every straight into a test of nerve. The spray from the tires rises like smoke, blurring the lines between the asphalt and the dark sky.

Charles can barely see more than a few meters in front of him, but he doesn’t let up. His foot is heavy on the throttle, fingers gripping the wheel like a lifeline. He’s teetering on the edge of control, dancing that fine line between dangerous and deadly.

Every lap feels like a gamble. He’s driving blind, trusting the car to hold steady, trusting himself not to make a mistake. But the mistakes are creeping in. He can feel it. The tires are slipping, the rear end twitching beneath him as he pushes harder, faster. The rain pounds against his helmet, and the world outside the cockpit is a chaotic blur of water and noise.

“Charles, we need you to back off,” his engineer’s voice crackles through the radio, thick with concern. “Conditions are getting worse.”

He doesn’t respond. His eyes are fixed on the road ahead, every muscle in his body tense, every instinct screaming at him to keep pushing. He knows the risks. He knows what’s at stake. But slowing down isn’t an option. Not for him.

“Charles, can you hear me?” The voice comes again, more insistent this time.

He blinks, his vision briefly clearing through the rain. And then he sees it.

A figure. Just beyond the barriers, standing at the edge of the track, half-obscured by the downpour. At first, it’s just a blur of motion, but as he hurtles closer, the figure sharpens into focus.

His breath catches in his throat. It can’t be.

Jules.

It’s impossible, but there he is — Jules Bianchi, standing on the side of the track, just where the runoff ends and the grass begins, his face calm, serene. Just like Charles remembers him. His heart leaps into his throat, a wave of emotion crashing over him, threatening to overwhelm him.

“Jules?” He whispers, his voice barely audible over the roar of the engine.

He blinks, just for a second. But when his eyes open again, Jules is gone. And in his place, there’s you.

Charles’ chest tightens, his hands shaking on the wheel as the car skids slightly on the wet track. You’re standing where Jules was, your gaze locked on him, calm and unyielding. The rain pours down around you, but you don’t move. You don’t blink. You just watch him, lap after lap.

“What the hell …” His voice cracks, his heart pounding harder than it should.

He can’t take his eyes off you, not even as the car barrels down the straight. The rain is coming down harder now, a relentless torrent that threatens to drown him in its fury. His mind spins, struggling to make sense of what he’s seeing. First Jules, now you — both of you standing there, on the edge of the track like ghosts from different parts of his life, haunting him.

Lap after lap, you’re there. Always in the same spot, just beyond the barrier, watching him. He blinks through the rain, but you never leave.

“Charles, please, respond,” his engineer’s voice cuts through the haze, sharp with worry. “You need to slow down. The rain’s too heavy. We’re going to box.”

“I’m fine,” Charles snaps, his voice strained. “I’m staying out.”

He can hear the hesitation in the silence that follows. They don’t want to argue with him — not now, not when he’s like this. But he knows they’re watching, knows they can see the telemetry, knows they can see that he’s pushing the car beyond its limits.

He doesn’t care. He has to keep going. He has to — for Jules.

But why are you here? Why now? Why after Jules?

His hands shake on the wheel as he takes another corner too fast, the rear tires sliding out before he regains control. His heart is racing, his mind a mess of emotions, and still — you’re there. You’re always there.

Charles grits his teeth, his jaw clenched so tight it hurts. “What do you want from me?” He mutters under his breath, his voice trembling. He knows you can’t hear him, not through the roar of the engine and the crash of rain, but it doesn’t matter. You’re in his head now. You’ve been in his head since Melbourne.

And now, Jules too?

It’s almost too much. The memories of his godfather crash over him, a flood of grief and guilt he’s been pushing down for years. Jules’ voice, his smile, the way he believed in Charles even when Charles didn’t believe in himself.

But Jules is gone. Has been for a long time.

So why did he see him?

“Charles, box, box,” the radio crackles, cutting through his thoughts again.

“I said no!” He snaps, his voice sharper than he intended. His breath is coming fast, too fast, his chest tight with something he can’t name.

He takes the next corner harder than he should, the car sliding dangerously close to the wall. His knuckles are white against the steering wheel, his body tense, rigid. His mind is racing — too fast, too chaotic. The rain pounds harder against the car, and visibility is almost zero now, the track a slick, treacherous river beneath him.

And then, as he speeds past the spot where you stand, something shifts.

He swears he hears your voice. Soft, almost a whisper, but unmistakable. “Charles.”

It’s like ice down his spine. His heart skips a beat, his grip faltering for just a second.

He jerks the wheel, the car sliding as he corrects it, narrowly avoiding the barrier. His pulse is racing, his breathing erratic. He glances toward where you’re standing, but you don’t move. Don’t say anything else. Just watch. Always watching.

“Damn it,” he mutters, his heart pounding so loud he can barely hear anything else. “Damn it!”

The ticking is back. That familiar, maddening sound in the back of his mind. It’s been there for months now, growing louder, more insistent with every race, every lap. And now it’s deafening, drowning out everything else, a reminder of the time slipping through his fingers.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

“You’re running out of time.”

Your voice echoes in his head, soft and calm, but laced with something darker. Something inevitable.

“I know!” He shouts, his voice hoarse, desperate. He knows he’s running out of time. He’s known it for months. Every race, every moment, feels like it’s pulling him closer to the edge, closer to you.

But he won’t stop. He can’t stop.

Jules wouldn’t want him to.

The thought of Jules — of his godfather, watching him, believing in him — gives him a surge of strength. He clenches his jaw, his eyes narrowing as he pushes the car harder, faster, through the rain-soaked chaos.

“I’ll win,” he mutters, his voice fierce. “I’ll win for him.”

The car slides again, the tires struggling for grip, but he doesn’t care. He pushes harder, faster. The track is a blur beneath him, the rain blinding, but all he can think about is Jules. About you. About the ticking clock in his head.

And still, you’re there. Lap after lap, you watch him. Unblinking. Unwavering.

“You don’t have to do this,” your voice whispers in his mind, soft but relentless.

“I do,” he growls, his teeth gritted against the storm. “I have to.”

There’s a flash of lightning overhead, illuminating the track for a brief moment, and in that instant, he sees you clearer than ever. Your eyes meet his, and for a split second, everything falls away. The rain, the track, the car — it all disappears, leaving just the two of you, suspended in time.

“You can’t outrun this,” you say, and there’s something almost sad in your voice. “You know that.”

He shakes his head, his hands gripping the wheel so tight his knuckles are white. “I can try.”

You don’t argue. You never do. You just watch him, like you always do, waiting. Waiting for him to understand.

He takes the final corner, the car sliding dangerously close to the wall, and as he crosses the line, the checkered flag waving in the rain, he feels it.

The ticking stops.

And for the first time in months, there’s silence.

But it’s not a relief.

It’s a warning.

Because he knows — deep down — that this isn’t over.

Not yet.

You’re still watching. And he’s still running.

But he can’t run forever.

***

The lights of Abu Dhabi shimmer under the night sky, illuminating the track like a stage set for the final act. The crowd is a sea of red, Ferrari flags waving in anticipation, in hope. This is it. The final race. The decider.

Charles sits in his cockpit, the engine vibrating beneath him, the roar of the crowd a distant hum behind his helmet. He’s been here before — so close — but this time, it’s different. This time, he feels it. The championship is within his grasp. The ticking in his head has been growing louder all season, but tonight, it’s almost deafening.

Lap after lap, corner after corner, he’s been inching closer to victory. Every second matters, every move counts. His heart pounds in sync with the car, the pressure of the moment squeezing at his chest, but he doesn’t let it crack him. Not now. He can’t. Not when everything he’s fought for is just beyond the finish line.

“Stay focused, Charles,” the voice of his engineer comes through the radio, calm but urgent.

“I’m focused,” Charles mutters, his voice tight with determination. His eyes flicker to the rearview mirrors — no one behind him. He’s clear.

The laps tick down, and with each one, the championship feels closer, heavier. The car is holding together, despite the heat, despite the pressure he’s putting on it. Ferrari has given him everything, and now he’s about to repay that faith. The Tifosi will finally have what they’ve been waiting for.

The last corner comes too quickly, but his hands are steady on the wheel. He navigates the turn, his body leaning into it as if willing the car to stay glued to the track. And then he’s there — the straight before the finish line, the end of the race.

“Go, go, go!” His engineer’s voice rises, the excitement breaking through. “You’ve got it, Charles!”

The chequered flag waves ahead, and in a breathless moment, it’s over.

Charles crosses the line. World Champion.

For a second, he’s still. Then the realization crashes into him like a tidal wave. He’s done it. He’s won. The championship is his.

The radio crackles again, his engineer’s voice cutting through the noise. “Charles — Champion of the World! You’ve done it! We’ve done it!”

A shaky laugh escapes Charles’ lips. “We did it. We actually did it,” he breathes, disbelief and euphoria blending together.

He can hear the team screaming over the radio, their joy contagious. “Grazie, Charles! Grazie! You’re the World Champion!”

He laughs again, more freely this time, his body shaking with adrenaline. “For Ferrari. For the Tifosi.”

His eyes well up as he glances at the sea of red in the stands. It’s everything he ever wanted. Glory. History. His name etched forever in the annals of the sport. He lifts a hand, a small wave toward the crowd, though they can’t see him from inside the cockpit.

“I can’t believe it,” he mutters, almost to himself. “I actually did it.”

His heart is racing, but it’s not the same as before. This time, it’s relief. It’s joy. It’s everything he’s sacrificed for, everything he’s given to this dream.

He presses the brake pedal gently, ready to slow down for the cool-down lap, to take it all in, but-

Nothing happens.

A frown creases his brow. He presses again, harder this time.

Still nothing.

Panic flickers at the edge of his mind. “No … No, no, no …”

He pushes the brake pedal to the floor, but the car doesn’t respond. It doesn’t slow. The speedometer remains steady — too fast, too uncontrolled.

“Brakes aren’t working,” he says into the radio, trying to keep his voice calm, but his heart is pounding again, this time for a different reason. Something’s wrong. Very wrong.

“What? What do you mean?” His engineer’s voice is sharp, laced with fear.

“The brakes!” Charles snaps, his breath quickening. “They’re not working. I can’t slow down.”

He can feel the car resisting him, the engine still pushing forward, the barriers coming closer. The panic is rising now, clawing at his throat, tightening around his chest. He tries to steer, to find some way to slow the car, but there’s nothing. The barriers are closing in, the speed too high, too dangerous.

“Charles, try the emergency system-”

“I already have!” His voice cracks, desperation breaking through. The car is screaming beneath him, the speed a deadly weapon now, not a tool of victory.

And then he sees you.

You’re standing right by the barrier, just ahead, as if you’ve been waiting for him all along.

His heart stops for a second, time freezing around him. You’re so still, so calm, watching him. Watching him as the car barrels toward you, toward the barrier, toward the inevitable.

“No …” Charles breathes, his voice barely a whisper. His hands are shaking on the wheel now, his vision blurring from the speed, from the fear. He can see the crash coming, can feel it in his bones.

But you don’t move. You just watch.

His chest tightens, and the ticking is back, louder than ever. It’s all he can hear now, that maddening, relentless ticking.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

You don’t have to say anything. He knows. He’s always known. He’s been running toward this moment, toward you, since the beginning.

“Charles, try to-” His engineer’s voice cuts in again, but it’s too late.

The car slams into the barrier with a deafening crash, metal crunching, glass shattering. The world explodes around him, spinning, breaking apart. Pain flares through his body, white-hot and sharp, and then everything goes dark.

He’s still. Silent. The only sound is the faint crackling of the radio, his engineer’s voice distant, broken by static. “Charles? Charles, can you hear me? Charles?”

But Charles can’t move. He can barely think. The pain is numbing now, his body heavy, unresponsive. His vision is blurry, the world around him fading in and out of focus.

And then, through the haze, he sees you again. You’re walking toward him, slowly, steadily, through the wreckage of the car. The world is quiet now, eerily still, as if time itself has stopped.

Charles’ breath is shallow, his heart struggling to keep up. He can feel it — the end. It’s here. It’s always been here, waiting for him.

You come closer, your footsteps silent, your face calm, almost peaceful. You stop just beside the cockpit, your eyes meeting his.

“Is this it?” Charles whispers, his voice barely audible, his chest tight with the effort of speaking. His vision is fading fast, the darkness closing in. But you’re the only thing he can see clearly.

You don’t answer. You don’t need to. He knows.

You kneel beside him, your hand reaching out, and for the first time, you touch him. Your fingers brush against his skin, cold and soft, and in that moment, everything stops.

The ticking in his head goes silent.

The world fades.

And Charles Leclerc, World Champion, breathes his last breath.

He’s gone.

But his name — his glory — will live on forever. He gave everything. Sacrificed everything.

For Ferrari. For the Tifosi. For the dream.

And now, he is part of that legacy, forever written in the stars.

He won.

He died for glory.

***

The streets of Maranello are overflowing with grief.

Charles stands next to you, or at least what’s left of him does. His soul, untethered from the wreckage, feels weightless, though the weight of the moment is crushing. He can’t feel the ground beneath him anymore, can’t feel the warmth of the sun or the bite of the wind. All he can feel is the suffocating sorrow of the crowd, pressing in from every direction.

And the crowd. Dio mio, the crowd. Thousands — no, hundreds of thousands — of Tifosi flood the streets, a sea of red and black, their flags raised high, but there is no joy in their colors today. No triumphant cheers. Just the sound of sobs, muffled by hands pressed to faces, by the raw weight of a collective heartbreak that can’t be put into words.

The Ferrari factory looms behind them, draped in mourning banners, the Prancing Horse emblem hanging in black, somber and silent. The air is thick with the scent of incense, flowers — and death.

It’s impossible to look at them, and yet Charles can’t tear his eyes away. Grown men, hardened by life, stand with tears streaming down their faces. Fathers and sons alike, clutching each other as if holding on will somehow stem the flood of loss that grips them.

Charles looks at you, his breath — if he had any left — shuddering in his chest. “I’ve never seen anything like this.”

You’re silent, standing beside him, your presence both a comfort and a reminder. This is what it means to be gone. To be remembered, but no longer part of the world.

“Do they …” He trails off, his voice thick with disbelief. “Do they miss me this much?”

You glance at him, your eyes calm but unreadable. “What did you expect?” Your voice is soft, but there’s an edge of inevitability to it, as if the scene before him was always written in the stars, just like his fate.

“I don’t know,” he mutters, running a hand through his hair. Or at least, he tries to. The motion feels more like a memory than a reality. “I thought … I thought they’d move on.”

You tilt your head, the faintest hint of a smile ghosting across your lips. “They won’t. Not from this. Not from you.”

His eyes flicker back to the crowd, his chest tight. There’s no end to them. They fill the streets, every inch of space, like blood rushing through the veins of this small Italian town. He sees children on their fathers’ shoulders, wearing tiny Ferrari caps. Women clutching scarves, their eyes red from crying. He’s never seen this kind of devotion, not like this. Not for him.

He spots an elderly man near the front, his face weathered and lined, but the tears falling down his cheeks are fresh. He’s holding a photo of Charles — young, smiling, a memory of a better time. A time when the world still held onto hope.

Charles feels his throat tighten, his eyes burning despite the fact that he can’t cry anymore. “Why …” He swallows hard, his voice cracking. “Why are they all here? Why does it hurt them this much?”

You turn to face him fully, your expression steady, knowing. “Because you were theirs. Il Predestinato. The one they believed in. You gave them hope, and you gave them your life. They will never forget that.”

The title rings in his ears. Il Predestinato. The Chosen One. It always sounded so heavy, a burden he could never quite shake. And now, he wonders if it was ever truly his to bear.

A sudden commotion pulls his attention back to the crowd. The sea of red parts for a moment as a car rolls slowly through. Charles recognizes it immediately — a Ferrari, sleek and dark, the hearse that will carry his body through the streets of Maranello. It’s draped in the Italian flag, and atop it sits his helmet, the red and white standing stark against the backdrop of mourning.

The Tifosi bow their heads, some reaching out as if trying to touch the car, as if touching it will bring them closer to him. The car stops in front of the factory, and Charles watches, numb, as his casket is pulled out, carried by men he’s known for years. Faces he recognizes, but that seem distant now, like shadows from another life.

“They’re broken,” Charles whispers, his voice trembling. “I didn’t mean for this.”

You don’t respond immediately, just watching the procession with the same stillness you always carry. Finally, you speak, your voice low and quiet. “Sacrifice always leaves something behind. Even if it’s pain.”

Charles inhales sharply, though the air doesn’t fill his lungs the way it used to. He’s not sure how to process what he’s seeing, what he’s feeling. There’s a weight in his chest, heavy and suffocating. It’s not like the fear he felt in those final moments before the crash, but something deeper. Something that feels permanent.

The casket reaches the steps of the Ferrari factory, where the company’s executives, drivers, and engineers are gathered. They stand in silence, heads bowed, their faces etched with sorrow. Charles feels a pang of guilt, sharper than he expected.

“Was it worth it?” His voice is barely a whisper, almost lost in the overwhelming noise of the crowd.

You turn to him, your expression unreadable. “That’s not for me to decide.”

He clenches his fists, frustration bubbling to the surface. “But I gave everything! I died for this!” He gestures toward the casket, the crowd, the broken faces of his friends and family. “I sacrificed everything for Ferrari. For the Tifosi.”

You meet his gaze, unwavering. “And now, you have to decide if that sacrifice was worth it.”

Charles looks away, his heart — or whatever’s left of it — aching. He doesn’t know the answer. Not yet. Maybe not ever.

As the casket is carried up the steps, a priest steps forward. Charles recognizes him immediately. The Pope. The sight would almost be surreal if it weren’t for the gravity of the moment. The leader of the Catholic Church, come to bless his body, to give him the final rites. It’s more than Charles ever expected, more than he ever thought possible.

The Pope raises his hand, his voice carrying over the crowd in solemn Latin, offering a prayer for Charles’ soul. The crowd is silent now, the only sound the soft rustle of flags in the wind and the distant sobs of those too broken to hold back their grief.

Charles watches, his chest tight with emotion he can’t quite name. “Will they remember me?” His voice is small, almost childlike in its vulnerability.

You don’t hesitate. “They will never forget you. The Tifosi will name their children after you. They will pray for you, mourn for you, even as they themselves fade. Your name will live on, even when their names turn to dust.”

He blinks, trying to process your words. It’s everything he ever wanted, everything he worked for. To be remembered. To be loved. To be immortal in the eyes of those who mattered most to him.

“But will it be enough?” He asks, his voice barely a whisper. “Will it ever be enough?”

You turn to him, your gaze softening just slightly. “That’s something only you can answer.”

Charles looks back at the crowd, at the faces of the people who loved him, who believed in him, who now grieve for him. He doesn’t know the answer yet. Maybe he never will. But for now, all he can do is watch as the people of Italy — his people — mourn the loss of their hero, their champion, their Il Predestinato.

And perhaps, in their grief, in their endless love for him, he will find the answer he’s looking for.

As the Pope finishes his prayer, the crowd begins to chant.

“Forza, Charles! Forza Ferrari!“

The sound rises, a wave of devotion and heartbreak that crashes over the streets of Maranello. Charles listens, his heart aching with a mixture of pride and sorrow.

He is gone. But his name, his legacy, will live on forever.

And maybe — just maybe — that’s enough.

***

The afterlife is nothing like Charles imagined.

For one, it isn’t dark. There are no flames licking at the sky, no eerie fog swirling at his feet. There’s no light at the end of the tunnel either. Instead, there’s an odd stillness, like time has stopped moving but everything else remains in place. It’s hard to describe, really — neither peaceful nor unsettling, just … different.

He’s not sure how long he’s been here. Time doesn’t seem to exist in the way it used to. Days blend into one another, or maybe there are no days at all. Just moments strung together in an endless loop.

The one constant in this strange new reality is you.

You’re always close by, never too far, but never imposing. It’s a strange sort of companionship, one that Charles hadn’t expected to find in death. He watches you sometimes, your presence steady, your movements fluid and quiet. You’re not like anyone he’s ever met. And it’s no wonder — how could you be? You’re death.

But there’s something else about you, something he can’t quite put into words. You’re not cold or distant, despite the weight of your title. There’s a kind of sadness that clings to you, something that pulls him in even when he tries to resist it.

He’s sitting beside you now, his back against an old stone wall, looking out into the expanse of … wherever this place is. It’s quiet, as always, the only sound the faint rustling of something distant. Neither of you speak, but the silence between you is comfortable, not awkward.

After a while, Charles breaks it.

“Do you ever get lonely?”

Your head tilts slightly, as if the question surprises you. You don’t answer right away, and for a moment, Charles thinks you won’t. But then you shift, your eyes focused on some point in the distance, and your voice, when it comes, is soft.

“I suppose I do.”

It’s not what he expected you to say. He always thought of you as solitary, but not necessarily lonely. You were death, after all. You weren’t meant to have attachments, were you?

“How could you?” He asks, genuinely curious. “You’re … you. Death doesn’t get lonely.”

You let out a soft sigh, one that’s more resigned than sad. “Death doesn’t exactly allow for much companionship.” You glance at him, your eyes steady. “Most souls don’t stick around for very long. They move on. They’re not meant to linger.”

Charles absorbs your words, turning them over in his mind. It’s true — he’s the only one here, the only soul who hasn’t moved on. But the idea that you might be lonely, after all this time, unsettles him in a way he can’t explain.

“Do you know why I haven’t moved on?” He asks, his voice quiet.

You shake your head, your expression soft but unreadable. “No. I don’t understand it.”

He leans back against the wall, his mind racing. Why hasn’t he moved on? There’s no reason to stay, no unfinished business, no regrets strong enough to tether him to this place. And yet … he’s still here. With you.

You shift slightly beside him, your gaze drifting out into the distance again. “I’ve never had anyone stay this long,” you say, almost to yourself. “Most souls are eager to move on. They want peace, or closure, or something more.”

Charles frowns, looking over at you. “And what about you?”

“What about me?”

“Do you want them to stay?”

You pause, considering the question. “No,” you say eventually. “That’s not how it works. They’re not meant to stay. Neither am I.”

“But you get lonely.”

Your lips press together, and for a moment, Charles thinks he might have pushed too far. But then you nod, just once. “Yes.”

There’s something in your voice, something quiet and raw, that tugs at something deep inside him. He doesn’t understand why, but it matters to him. Your loneliness matters to him.

“Is that why you’re still here?” You ask, turning the question back on him. “Because of me?”

He opens his mouth to respond, but no words come. He’s not sure. Maybe it is. Or maybe there’s something else at play, something neither of you understands.

“I don’t know,” he says honestly. “But I don’t think I’m ready to leave.”

You look at him then, really look at him, and there’s a softness in your gaze that catches him off guard. He realizes in that moment how much time you’ve spent alone. You, the embodiment of death, the one who has seen everything end but never experienced the simplicity of someone choosing to stay.

He leans forward, his voice quieter now. “Have you ever-”

He hesitates, the question hanging in the air between you.

“What?” You prompt, your voice gentle.

“Have you ever … I don’t know. Experienced anything like this?” He gestures between the two of you. “With anyone else?”

You shake your head, almost sadly. “No. Death doesn’t leave room for that.”

Charles watches you for a moment, his mind spinning with the weight of it all. It seems so unfair, that you should be condemned to an eternity of loneliness, of watching others move on while you remain.

“Everyone deserves at least one thing,” he says softly, almost to himself.

You tilt your head, confused. “What do you mean?”

He swallows hard, his gaze locking onto yours. “Everyone deserves to experience their first kiss.”

Your breath catches ever so slightly, your eyes widening just a fraction. “Charles …”

“I’m serious,” he says, his voice soft but steady. “You should have that. You deserve it.”

You don’t respond, but your eyes search his, and for the first time since he met you, he sees something flicker there. Uncertainty. Vulnerability.

He leans in slowly, giving you time to pull away if you want to. But you don’t. You stay still, watching him, waiting.

And then, gently, Charles presses his lips to yours.

The kiss is soft, barely more than a whisper of a touch, but it’s enough. Enough to make the world tilt on its axis for a moment, enough to make the weight of everything around you both fall away.

You don’t pull back immediately. Neither does he. For a few seconds, it’s just the two of you, suspended in the stillness of the afterlife, sharing something fragile and beautiful.

When he finally does pull away, your eyes are still closed, your lips parted ever so slightly. Charles watches you, his heart — or whatever it is that beats in his chest now — pounding in a way that feels almost human again.

You open your eyes slowly, blinking as if coming out of a dream.

“I-” You falter, your voice soft and uncertain. “Why did you …”

He smiles gently, brushing a thumb across your cheek. “Because I wanted to. And because you deserve it.”

You don’t say anything for a long moment, just looking at him as if trying to make sense of what just happened. But there’s a warmth in your gaze now, something that wasn’t there before. Something new.

“I don’t understand you, Charles,” you admit softly, your voice barely above a whisper.

He laughs quietly, leaning his forehead against yours. “I don’t understand myself, either.”

You stay like that for a while, in the stillness of the afterlife, the weight of the world no longer pressing down on either of you. There’s no rush, no need for answers right now.

For the first time, in a long time, neither of you feels alone.

***

Time is strange in the afterlife.

Charles doesn’t know how long he’s been here — whether it’s days, months, or even years. There’s no ticking clock, no sun moving across the sky. It’s just … still. He’s gotten used to the quiet, to your presence nearby, and to the sense that nothing is rushing forward like it used to.

But something shifts one day. You’re sitting beside him, as usual, but there’s a new energy in the air, something that tugs at the quietness and pulls at the stillness. You turn to him, your eyes meeting his with a softness that he can’t quite place.

“I have something to show you,” you say, your voice quiet but clear.

He blinks, confused. “What do you mean?”

You don’t explain. Instead, you stand, offering him your hand. He hesitates for a second, but then he takes it. There’s always been an unspoken trust between you — something that keeps him tethered to you, even in death.

The world shifts around him, the stillness breaking apart. For a moment, everything spins, the ground slipping from beneath his feet as if he’s falling — but it’s not unpleasant. It’s more like drifting. And then, as suddenly as it starts, it stops.

Charles finds himself standing in a hospital room.

His breath catches, his mind scrambling to make sense of where he is. The sterile smell of disinfectant clings to the air, and the beeping of machines fills the silence. He looks around, trying to orient himself, but nothing feels real.

“Where-”

You don’t answer his question directly. Instead, you nod toward the center of the room. “Look.”

Charles follows your gaze, and his heart — if he still had one — stumbles in his chest. His older brother, Lorenzo, stands by the bed, his face soft with emotion. He’s holding someone’s hand. Charlotte, his wife, is lying in the hospital bed, her expression tired but glowing. But it’s the small bundle she holds against her chest that steals Charles’ breath.

A baby.

It takes him a moment to fully process what he’s seeing. Lorenzo’s wife. His brother. And a baby.

Charles steps closer, his movements slow, almost cautious, as if he’s afraid the scene will shatter if he gets too close. He watches as Lorenzo reaches down to stroke the baby’s tiny head, his face filled with a tenderness that Charles hasn’t seen in years.

“Lorenzo?” Charles whispers, though he knows his brother can’t hear him. His eyes are fixed on the child in Charlotte’s arms, a strange sense of awe and disbelief washing over him.

You step beside him, your voice soft as you speak. “I wanted you to meet Charles Tolotta-Leclerc.”

He freezes.

“What?” His voice barely makes it past his lips, and he turns to look at you, his eyes wide, searching your face for any hint of a joke. But you’re serious.

You nod toward the baby again. “They named him after you.”

Charles stares at the tiny bundle, his mind struggling to catch up with what you’ve just said. They named the baby after him? His head spins, a strange mix of emotions swirling through him — shock, disbelief, and something that feels dangerously close to pride.

Before he can fully process it, Lorenzo’s voice cuts through the quiet.

“I miss him,” Lorenzo says softly, his voice thick with emotion. “I wish he could be here. I wish he could’ve met him.”

Charlotte smiles up at him, though there’s a sadness in her eyes. “He would’ve loved him,” she says, her voice gentle. “He’ll be watching over him, I’m sure of it.”

Lorenzo’s expression tightens, his throat bobbing as he swallows hard. “I hope so,” he murmurs. “I hope he’s watching over us. Over Charlie.”

Charles stands frozen, his entire body — or soul, or whatever he is — going still. The weight of Lorenzo’s words crashes into him like a tidal wave, leaving him breathless. He watches as his brother’s eyes fill with unshed tears, and it breaks something inside him.

“I wanted him to be here,” Lorenzo says, his voice cracking. “I wanted him to be part of this, to see my son …”

Charles can’t take it anymore. He feels the pressure building inside of him, the ache in his chest growing unbearable. Tears prick at the corners of his eyes — not physical tears, but the kind that burn and sting nonetheless.

You’re beside him before he even realizes it, your presence calm and steady. You don’t say anything, but you don’t need to. He can feel your understanding, your quiet reassurance.

“I’m here,” he whispers, his voice trembling. “I’m watching.”

But no one can hear him.

Lorenzo’s voice cracks again as he continues. “I named him Charles because … I want him to be like you. I want him to grow up knowing who you were. What you stood for. And maybe … maybe he’ll feel like you’re with him, even if you can’t be.”

Charles presses a hand to his mouth, trying to stifle the sob that threatens to escape. The emotions are too much — grief, pride, love, all tangled together in a way that feels like it’s tearing him apart.

He looks at the baby again, the tiny life cradled in Charlotte’s arms, and something breaks open inside him. He didn’t know it was possible to feel so much after death. He thought everything would fade away, that he wouldn’t have to feel the weight of the world anymore.

But watching his brother, watching this moment … it’s almost unbearable.

You step closer, your hand resting gently on his shoulder. “It’s okay to feel it,” you say softly. “It’s okay to cry.”

Charles lets out a shaky breath, his body trembling with the force of his emotions. “I-I didn’t think it would be this hard,” he admits, his voice barely audible. “I thought … I thought I was ready to move on.”

Your hand stays steady on his shoulder, grounding him. “You gave everything for glory,” you say gently. “For Ferrari. For the Tifosi. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to let go.”

Charles shakes his head, tears streaming down his face as he watches his brother, his nephew. “I don’t know if I can,” he chokes out. “I don’t know how to say goodbye.”

You don’t rush him. You let him stand there, watching, crying. He can feel your quiet strength beside him, your understanding. You’ve seen it all before, but for him, it’s new, raw, overwhelming.

Lorenzo leans down, pressing a kiss to his newborn son’s head. “He’s going to know all about you,” Lorenzo murmurs. “I’ll make sure of it.”

Charles can’t stop the sob that escapes him this time. He crumples forward, his hands covering his face as the grief finally spills over, uncontrollable. He feels like he’s breaking apart, like everything he’s held inside for so long is crashing down around him.

And then, you’re there. You wrap your arms around him, pulling him close, letting him cry into your shoulder. You don’t say anything, but your presence is enough. It’s steady, grounding, and for the first time since he’s been here, Charles feels like he isn’t alone in his grief.

He cries for a long time, the emotions pouring out of him in waves. He cries for the life he left behind, for the family he didn’t get to see again, for the child named after him who will never know him. And through it all, you stay with him, holding him, comforting him.

When the sobs finally subside, Charles pulls back slightly, wiping at his eyes. He feels raw, drained, but there’s a sense of release, too — like something heavy has been lifted from his chest.

“He’s going to be okay,” you say softly, your voice gentle. “Lorenzo will take care of him. He’ll grow up knowing who you were, what you meant.”

Charles nods, his throat too tight to speak. He looks back at the hospital bed, at Lorenzo and Charlotte, and for the first time, there’s a flicker of something like peace in his chest.

“Thank you,” he whispers, his voice hoarse.

You smile softly, brushing a tear from his cheek. “You don’t have to thank me.”

But he does. Because in this moment, he knows he couldn’t have faced this alone. Not without you.

Charles watches his brother one last time, his heart heavy but full. And though he knows he can never return to the life he once had, there’s a strange sense of comfort in knowing that a part of him still exists in the world — in the form of the tiny child cradled in Charlotte’s arms.

“I’ll watch over him,” Charles says softly, his voice steady now. “I promise.”

***

The air between you is different today. Charles can feel it before you even say a word. It's in the way your eyes linger on him a little longer, the way your silence stretches. You’ve been together for what feels like an eternity, yet time is meaningless here.

He looks at you, waiting for the explanation, the gentle unspooling of whatever truth you’re about to offer him.

Finally, you speak. “I think you’re ready.”

Charles frowns. “Ready for what?”

“To move on.”

The words hang in the air, heavier than he expected. His chest tightens, and he shakes his head, the instinctual reaction coming out almost before you finish speaking.

“I don’t want to move on.” His voice is sharp, edged with panic. He doesn’t fully understand what “moving on” means, but he knows it sounds final. It sounds like goodbye, and he’s not ready for that. Not now. Not after everything. Not after you.

You watch him quietly, a small smile pulling at the corners of your lips. “Charles, you’ve already moved on in so many ways. This-” you gesture between the two of you, “-this isn’t goodbye.”

He stares at you, his mind racing. “Then what is it? You’re telling me I have to leave, but I can’t — I can’t leave you.”

You laugh softly, the sound rich with irony. “I’m death, Charles. You’re dead. Why would you have to leave me?”

The realization hits him, and his protest falters. His hands fall to his sides as he processes what you’re saying. You’re death, and he’s already passed beyond life. There’s no need to fear separation, because you are intertwined with whatever comes next.

“So, I’m not really going anywhere?” He asks, cautiously hopeful.

“Not in the way you think,” you assure him, your voice softening. “But this place — it isn’t where you belong anymore. There’s something else waiting for you.”

Charles exhales slowly, relief and uncertainty swirling in his chest. “Something else?”

You step closer, your hand reaching out to brush against his arm. “You’ve done everything you needed to do here. You’ve won. You’ve found peace with your family. Now … it’s time.”

He looks into your eyes, searching for something — reassurance, maybe. He’s been with you through all of this, and yet, the idea of leaving this limbo, this stillness, feels daunting.

You tilt your head slightly. “Trust me.”

He wants to. He does. But there’s a tightness in his throat, a reluctance that refuses to fade. “What if I don’t want to go?” He murmurs, almost to himself.

You give him a knowing look. “Charles, you’re not going anywhere that I can’t follow.”

Something in him eases at your words. He nods, but there’s still a lingering hesitation. His life — his death — has been defined by choices. Choices to race, to sacrifice, to push past every limit. Now, there’s nothing left to fight, no championship to chase. This is the last choice he’ll have to make, and the finality of it shakes him.

“Okay,” he says, his voice quieter than he expects.

You smile, your fingers wrapping around his hand. “Come with me.”

The stillness of limbo shatters. The world around them changes, the coldness and vast emptiness giving way to something warm and vibrant. Colors he hasn’t seen in years flood his vision — deep blues, rich greens, and the golden light of a sun he hasn’t felt in what seems like forever.

Charles blinks, trying to make sense of where he is. There’s no pain, no exhaustion, just … peace. He stands there for a moment, taking it in, but then, something — someone — catches his eye.

He freezes, his heart — or whatever’s left of it — stopping in his chest.

Jules.

Jules is standing just a few feet away, watching him with that same familiar smile. The smile Charles grew up with, the one that got him through the hardest days.

His breath catches, and before he can stop himself, he runs.

It’s instinctive, like muscle memory, like he’s a kid again chasing after his godfather. His feet carry him faster than he thought possible, and when he reaches Jules, he throws himself into his arms without hesitation.

The warmth of the embrace floods through him, and Charles buries his face in Jules’ shoulder, a sob catching in his throat. He clings to him like he’s afraid to let go, the weight of everything — of life, of death, of everything in between — finally crashing down on him.

“I missed you,” Charles chokes out, his voice thick with emotion.

Jules laughs softly, holding him tight. “I missed you too, mon caneton.”

It’s overwhelming, this feeling of reunion. The tears fall freely now, and Charles can’t stop them, doesn’t want to stop them. He’s never cried like this before, not even when he won, not even when he died. But now, in the arms of someone who meant so much to him, it feels like everything is breaking free.

He pulls back, wiping at his face, but before he can say anything else, another voice breaks through the haze.

“Charles.”

Charles turns, his breath catching again as his eyes land on his father. He’s standing there, just a few feet away, watching his son with eyes full of pride.

“Papa …” The word slips from his lips, almost a whisper.

And then he’s running again, straight into his father’s arms. He feels like a child, all over again, seeking comfort and love and everything he’s missed. Hervé holds him, strong and steady, and for the first time in years, Charles feels like he’s truly home.

“I’m so proud of you,” Hervé murmurs, his voice full of emotion. “You did everything you said you would.”

Charles pulls back, his hands gripping his father’s shoulders as he looks at him, tears still streaming down his face. “I did it, Papa. I won.”

“I know,” Hervé says softly, his eyes shining. “I always knew you would.”

Charles nods, his throat too tight to speak. The pride in his father’s eyes is everything he’s ever wanted, everything he’s ever worked for.

But then, he turns.

You’re still standing there, watching quietly from a distance. Charles’ heart twists at the sight of you, at the thought of everything you’ve been through together. You’ve guided him, stayed with him, and now … now he understands.

“Thank you,” he whispers, his voice thick with gratitude.

He steps forward, closing the distance between you, and when he reaches you, he doesn’t hesitate. He cups your face in his hands, his thumbs brushing against your skin as he leans in.

His lips meet yours, soft and gentle, and in that moment, everything else fades away. There’s no race, no championship, no death. Just the two of you, together, in this place beyond life and time.

When he pulls back, his eyes meet yours, and he knows.

You smile at him, your eyes soft. “Glory was worth it, wasn’t it?”

Charles nods, his throat tight. “Yeah,” he whispers. “It was worth it.”

And somewhere, in the distance, the ticking starts again.

For someone else.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

He knows what he has to do. The weight of it settles into his chest like a stone, cold and heavy, suffocating the brief warmth of your kiss. His hands tremble as they slip away from your face, his fingers lingering for just a second longer, as if he can’t quite let go.

But he has to.

His breath shudders, a ragged thing that cuts through the silence. His lips part, but no words come out. There’s nothing left to say. You see the understanding in his eyes — he knows the truth now, the path that’s been laid out in front of him since the moment he died.

He belongs with them.

With Jules. With his father.

Not with you.

He turns, slowly, his back to you now. And just like that, the warmth is gone. It’s like the sun has disappeared from the sky, leaving nothing but the cold, endless void.

You want to stop him, call out his name, reach for him, something, anything, but the words die in your throat. He doesn’t belong to you. He never did.

“Charles …” you whisper, though you know he can’t hear you anymore. He’s already too far away. Already slipping through your fingers like sand.

He walks toward them — Jules and Hervé — his pace steady, purposeful. The space between you grows wider with every step, a chasm opening up that you can never hope to cross.

Jules smiles at him, that same familiar smile, the one that Charles would have given anything to see again. And his father … God, the pride in Hervé’s eyes is almost too much to bear. It’s everything Charles ever wanted. Everything he fought for, died for.

But you …

You stand there, watching.

Helpless. Silent. Alone.

Charles doesn’t look back. Not once.

You knew he wouldn’t.

You knew this moment was coming from the second you saw him in Melbourne, when his time started ticking. You were never meant to keep him. You were just a part of his story — a brief chapter in the long, winding tale of his life and death.

And now, that chapter is closing.

The void stretches before them, a vast expanse of nothingness, and as Charles reaches the edge, Jules and Hervé step forward to greet him. They wrap their arms around him, pulling him into their embrace, and for a moment — just a moment — Charles is home.

He glances over his shoulder, but not at you. His eyes skim past you, unseeing.

“Thank you,” he whispers, but the words aren’t for you. They’re for the life he left behind. The glory. The fame. The endless pursuit of something more.

And then he steps into the void.

You feel it before you see it — the pull, the way the world shifts as he crosses the threshold. It’s like a part of the universe is being torn away, a piece of the puzzle you’ve held together for so long is finally gone. And you’re left behind, standing on the edge, watching as they fade into the distance.

The ticking stops.

And for the first time in what feels like forever, you’re alone.

It’s funny, in a way. You’ve spent eons like this — watching souls come and go, guiding them from one world to the next. But with Charles, it was different. He stayed. He stayed longer than anyone else, long enough for you to feel something you weren’t supposed to feel.

Loneliness. Loss.

You told him you couldn’t be left behind, that death doesn’t experience separation, but that was a lie, wasn’t it?

Because now, as you stand there in the cold, empty void, watching the space where Charles once stood, you feel it — truly feel it — for the first time.

Heartbreak.

It’s a strange, hollow thing, the way it grips your chest, squeezes your lungs until you can’t breathe. You’ve seen it a thousand times, watched as humans crumbled under the weight of it, but this is different. This is personal.

This is yours.

He’s gone. He made his choice. And even though you knew it would end this way, it doesn’t make it any easier.

You take a step back, your feet moving of their own accord, retreating from the edge of the void. There’s no point in staying here. There’s nothing left to hold on to.

Charles is gone.

You close your eyes, trying to push down the ache in your chest, but it won’t go away. It lingers, sharp and raw, reminding you of what could have been, of the brief moments you shared that weren’t supposed to matter but now feel like everything.

For a second — just a second — you wish things had been different. That you could have kept him. That maybe, just maybe, you could have been something more than death. Something more than a shadow in the background of his life.

But that’s not who you are.

You open your eyes, the void still stretching out before you, endless and unforgiving.

Somewhere, far in the distance, the ticking starts for someone else. Another life, another death, another story to watch unfold.

But none of them will be Charles.

You’ll carry him with you, even if he never looks back. Even if he forgets your face. You’ll remember the way he smiled at you in the moments between life and death. You’ll remember the way his voice cracked when he thanked you.

And you’ll remember the way he kissed you, soft and brief, like a goodbye he couldn’t quite say.

You’ll remember it all.

And that, perhaps, is the cruelest part.

[bellezaycafe]

Get Your Shit Together - Chapter 6

genre: 2024 Season AU

pairing: Romantic! oc x two people because y'all voted on a triangle ;). platonic! oc x literally the whole grid.

warnings: lots swearing, mentions of the accident and crimes, discussions about gangs, mentions of bars and alcohol. Paranoia and an argument. love triangle crumbs

context: Part 1 and Masterlist…

Comments: massive lore drop but I've tried to keep the story moving and interesting. I'm a sucker for small details so I hope y'all have good memories ;)

"I'm in a witness protection program."

Sadie clenched her jaw, unsure what else to say. Lando and Max were silent.

"What did you see?" Lando's voice was so soft Sadie barely heard him over the road noise.

Her right hand flexed on the steering wheel. "I can't tell you that."

"Why did you volunteer?"

"Because I love F1."

Max chimed in. "You said it's too public, too many cameras."

"What I reported happened after Melbourne and just before SIlverstone. I- I think it would be better if I just told you, wouldn't it."

"Yes," Lando muttered, not meeting her glance.

"Okay, well. I was working a bar in Sydney and witnessed a crime. I was seen calling the cops and..." She took a deep breath. "And let's just say that I had dobbed on someone dangerous. Someone influential and known to police."

"You snitched on a gangster?" Lando's wide eyes would have made Sadie laugh in any other situation. "A real life gangster?"

"I didn't know who they were! I was cornered in an alley the next day and after that I spent all of my money on a two week stay in England. From there, I reported the attempted assault and was told to stay in England for the two weeks. The police said they could use that time to get me into witness protection and set up the right safeguards, if I anonymously testify in court. It happened to be the Grand Prix weekend, so I volunteered instead of sitting around."

"Attempted assault?" Max stressed.

Sadie glanced at him in the rear view and her silence was answer enough. You don't need to know.

"Let me get this right. You snitched on a gang, were threaten and then ran to England?!"

"Yeah, pretty much." Her tone didn't match her racing heart.

"What happened to 'too many cameras'?" Lando toyed with his silver necklace.

"Obviously I didn't consider how dramatically you were going to break your ankle in turn, whatever it was. I figured, as a medic, I’d spend a lot of time in areas with very few to no cameras.”

Sadie glanced at the phone Lando showed her and, with one hand on the wheel, swung them left and down a small side street.

“You are right, though,” Max observed. “The reporters aren’t allowed in the medical tents unless they’re unwell themselves.”

“Is that why you’re in Melbourne? Are you from Sydney?” She could hear curiosity in Lando’s voice.

“It’s complicated.” Sadie grimaced.

“It’s seems like everything is,” Max muttered.

“Oh, shush,” she joked. She knew it had landed when both boys smiled slightly. “I grew up just outside of Melbourne. I’ve been working back at that bar since I was 18. I took some unofficial leave in June to experience working in another city while we had extra staff. In hindsight, I shouldn’t have chosen Sydney.”

The boys were quiet as Sadie explained her time working at bars in Sydney and enjoying the nightlife of another city. She talked about the move up there and the sudden disappearance to England. Some of her stuff was still in Sydney, including some personal keepsakes like a bracelet from her mother. Sadie explained that Lewis and Max knew about the witness protection, but nothing further. She’d only told them when they visited her in hospital the day after the accident and after some significant convincing. She answered questions about her leg and how it had healed, which had turned out to be quite well.

“How much physio did you have to do?” There was guilt in Lando’s question.

“Just some at home things, it was quite easy,” Sadie admitted. She didn’t want to elaborate on the facts she hadn’t done any official physio because she couldn’t afford it. Australian public health care was good, but not that good. “How well has the ankle healed?”

“It was slower than I wanted but I’m cleared for next season which is good.”

Max grumbled, “but he didn’t stop complaining about it for months.”

“I was in pain, mate!”

“I know! You told me every chance you got!”

Sadie smiled at their banter, glad they weren’t holding up walls of suspicion anymore.

As she pulled up to the Piastri Family home, she cleared her throat. “I- ummm… It was good to see you again Lando, and good to meet you Max.”

“Oh no,” Lando chided. “We’re not done, I am not letting you just drive into the sunset again.”

“It’s already dark,” Sadie pointed out. “And that’s not what happened the first time.”

“And on that note, I’m out,” Max exclaimed. “It was lovely to meet you, Sadie. Thank you for what you did at Silverstone.”

He jumped out of the car before she could say anything and practically ran to the red front door of a small, low set home.

Lando undid his seatbelt and turned to face her, pulling a leg onto the seat.

“Sadie, you vanished.”

Straight into then.

“I feel better seeing that you’re in one piece, and not hearing it from news,” she murmured.

“That’s what you have to say?” he scoffed.

Sadie pushed down irritation. She might struggle to stay in one place for very long, but she was a patient person who had drawers of calm, collected masks to choose from.

When she didn’t answer, Lando shook his head and closed his eyes.

“How do you think I felt?” he snapped. “Lewis told me you had stitches. How many? I know you can walk, but how long did it take for the limp to go away? Did you need crutches? Because you know that I did, and you know how long I needed them for.”

“How much did Lewis tell you?”

“You’re focusing on the wrong thi-“

“How much, Lando?”

The panicked edge to her voice had Lando pausing, looking closer at her face through whatever haze was over his mind.

“Just that,” he breathed. “He told me you’d needed stitches but were okay. He wouldn’t tell me anything else.”

The fist around Sadie’s heart relaxed slightly as she sighed with relief. “Okay, as long as it was just that.”

“You’re scared,” he stated like he’d only just noticed. His watercolour eyes were lit slightly by a nearby street lamp. They appeared hazel in that light and it was a detail Sadie wished she hadn’t noted.

“I’m paranoid,” she replied just as curtly.

“I was scared,” he admitted, breaking the eye contact.

“That’s fair. If your ankle didn’t heal properly, your career might’ve been over.”

“No, that’s not- Well I was scared about that but I meant that I was scared for you.”

Sadie frowned. “What? Why?”

“I didn’t know if you were okay! You put yourself on the line for me, you saved my life and I didn’t know if you were okay!”

“I didn’t save your life,” she scoffed. “It wasn’t headed for your heart.”

“I rewatched the footage,” Lando confessed with a sheepish smile. “If you hadn’t put yourself between me and the track? The debris would have hit me and my career could have been over.”

“Your career, Lando. Not your life.” Her voice was the softest it had been all night. It even surprised her.

“My racing is my life, Sadie.”

“I-“ but he cut her off.

“I never got to thank you in person.”

“You can do it now.”

“No.”

“Why the fuck not?” Her patience was slipping. She pulled another mask from the drawer.

“I think you’d take it as closure, or something. Then you’d leave and I would never see you again.”

He wasn’t wrong. She’d began to form a plan on how to give him the answers he needed, and then vanish again. He was a liability to her safety.

“Would that be so bad?”

“Yes.” No hesitation.

She didn’t know what to say to that. Sadie couldn’t bring herself and meet the gaze she could feel on her.

“Max almost punched a reporter,” Lando said.

That had her looking up at him, a confused smile on her lips.

“What?”

“In the media pen, Max almost punched a reporter that wouldn’t stop asking about you.”

A laugh bubbled out of Sadie. Max Verstappen? Protecting the young woman who had ego-checked him at Albert Park?

“I’m serious!” Lando insisted, but his smile was widening. “The guy asked every driver, but Lewis and Max had already told everyone to say nothing. The reporter was so frustrated at getting ‘no comment’ from every driver. Max’s interview was second or third last and the reporter asked something so out of pocket. If you find the interview you can see Max trying not to hit the guy.”

Sadie laughed again, and she caught Lando grinning in her peripheral vision.

“I did make him swear on his championship,” she commented it.

“What?” It was obvious that detail was also new to Lando.

“After the incident, while we were still at the track, I made Lewis promise to hide me from the media. Max visited my hotel room a few days later, and I made him swear the same thing.”

“On his championship?” Lando was trying to hold back a laugh.

“Yeah.” Sadie couldn’t hold back her own.

They laughed for a few minutes at the absurd notion of Max swearing anything on his championship.

“Jesus,” Lando sighed. “That makes so much more sense now.”

“What does?”

“I tried to find you, after a month. Fuck, I even tried to rope half the grid into helping me find you, but Lewis and Max always shut it down. They never told my why, but I guess that’s it.”

“I’m not going to apologise for trying to protect myself.”

“You’re good at protecting,” he said.

It wasn’t the most random comment he’d made that night but it was the one that stuck out the most.

Sadie didn’t know how to reply.

She didn’t have a chance to think about it when she saw a shadowy figure moving toward the car.

“Lando, get out of sight,” she warned.

He was too shocked by the immediate change in demeanour and topic.

“What?”

“Just- oh. Nevermind.”

As the figure came closer, they stepped into the lamplight and Sadie recognised Oscar Piastri.

“It’s Piastri,” she breathed.

Lando wound down his window and waved.

Oscar leant down, rested both arms across the opened window and glanced between them.

“Hey, how are you?” He began.

“Could be better,” Sadie quipped with a joking smile.

“I’m trying to convince her to stay,” Lando explained.

Oscar raised an eyebrow. “Stay the night or-“

“No, Oscar!” Lando laughed and Sadie couldn’t help but like sound.

“He means in your lives. But I can’t.”

Oscar tilted his head sideways quizzically and some of his hair fell into his eyes. “Can’t or won’t.”

“Both.”

“You make it sound like you don’t have a choice,” he observed.

“She does,” Lando said at the same time as Sadie’s “I don’t.”

“Lando, I-“

“No, Sadie you do have a choice. Not every part of our lives is public.”

“I’m still very confused,” Oscar added.

Sadie’s patience slipped again. “Piastri, I fucked with some dangerous people, and I can’t let them find me. Lando, you don’t have a private life. If you’re not doing Formula One, you’re doing Quadrant; if you’re not doing Quadrant, you’re partying with Martin Garrix; and if you’re not partying, you’re posting something on Instagram. You live an incredibly public life, and that’s okay, but I can’t join that in any regard.”

Lando looked at her with stunned silence. Oscar was watching her with a very concerned expression. She pointed at him with an intense stare.

"You might think your life is fairly private, but when you post on social media everyone nit-pics at it because of how rare your posts are. And every sighting of you is scrutinised.”

A smile quirked at the corner of his mouth but he didn’t say anything.

Sadie pulled in a deep breath and pulled on another mask from the drawer.

“I’m sorry, to both of you, but I’m going to vanish again. I have to.”

“Are you in witness protection?” Oscar asked.

Sadie nodded with a frown. He’d put it together fast.

“When’s the court date?” Oscar’s deep brown were intensely focused on her.

“Wednesday, next week. I will be testifying anonymously.”

“So even if they have gang members who aren’t convicted, they won’t know it was you.” Lando pressed, catching onto Oscar’s train.

“Gang members?” Oscar’s went up an octave.

Sadie waved off the question and focused on Lando. “I see where this is going.”

“Then you can see why I’m right.” His eyes were set on hers, a hand set on the handbrake between them.

Sadie sighed and closed her eyes.

“All of the members who saw my face will be going on trial. A few of them have been convicted already.”

“So after next week, you won’t be in witness protection anymore.” Lando pressed.

“That will depend on whether they’re all convicted and how long their jail time is.”

As Sadie spoke, Oscar pulled out his wallet and an old receipt. He pulled a random marker from another pocket and wrote something on the back before handing them both to Lando. He took this hint and wrote something as well.

When he handed it to her, Sadie noted both their phone numbers and tiny signatures at the end of them.

“Text when the trial is over. Just a yes or no. A yes doesn’t mean that you’re going to to be thrust into the spot light. It’s a maybe.” Oscar said, running a hand through his brown hair.

“It’s a maybe I could thank you properly." Lando added. "A random dinner or a paddock pass to which ever race you want.”

That brought a small smile to Sadie’s face.

“Everyone at McLaren would want to thank you,” Oscar added, but there was a tightness to his jaw Sadie hadn’t noticed until then.

She caved.

“Alright maybe,” she said. “I’ll keep this but I'm not promising you anything.”

Oscar's soft smile said that's enough, but Lando's slight frown meant he wasn't ready to give up. Oscar noted it.

"Lando," he interrupted whatever the older driver was thinking. "Mum made chocolate cake while you were out and wants you to try it."

"She knows about our diets right?"

"She'll insist until you fly out."

Lando sighed with an amused smile and opened his door.

"I'm not going to say thank you, not yet. I'm not even going to say goodbye."

"It might be your only chance," Sadie reminded him.

Lando shook his head as he stood, brown curls waving in the small breeze. Oscar pushed his door shut gently and ducked his head back through the window.

They watched Lando walk away, oblivious to the fact Oscar wasn't on his heals.

"I saw it happen, at Silverstone," Oscar murmured. "I saw you make the choice."

"I didn't choose. I reacted. There was no choice, or thought process, or thoughts at all, actually. It was just an action."

"An action we're all grateful for, but-" His voice dropped, as if Lando would hear him if he was any louder. "- I want to thank you for making that choice, or doing that action, whatever."

"Stop," Sadie demanded. "Stop, Piastri."

He did. The first one to stop the first time she asked.

She pulled in a deep breathe and calmly explained, "I did what I did. It happened. I know you're all grateful, but it has to stay at that. This is not a movie, where a chance meeting leads to years of friendship."

"I wouldn't call being hospitalised for being a human shield, a chance encounter," Oscar noted dryly.

"You get my point," she replied.

"I do, and I think I understand." He stepped away from the car. "You have our numbers. Call us and we will be there."

Sadie smiled slightly but didn't give him any hope.

"Go, before Lando comes back out."

"It was good to meet you, Piastri."

"Good luck, Sadie."

With that, the handbrake was off, car in gear and she was gone.

----$----

I know y'all loved the Max/Sadie dynamic in chapters 1 and 2 so how about some more Max content next chapter? ;)

Masterlist…

Taglist; @snubug

[nico-di-genova]

Keep to the Line Chapter 3

Summary: Charles' week at Milton Keynes wraps up as he reflects on his time with Ferrari. Arthur prepares for his F2 debut.

Once again, a huge thank you to @lestappenforever for beta reading and continuing to motivate me with discussions of engineer!Charles.

It is snowing the night before Charles is meant to return home to Monaco. Sitting by the window of the pub that Max had managed to coax him into coming too, fingers wrapped loosely around the pint in his hands, Charles watches the eddies of snow swirl around in the sharp winter air and thinks about the sea. It is a good distraction from the noise of the pub, which is currently occupied by half the Milton Keynes technical staff and one very boisterous Max Verstappen. 

“Just come out for a drink, mate,” Max had pushed in the car they’d shared back to the hotel earlier, “Meet the rest of the team, yeah?” 

Charles, cold and headache forming from a long day of staring at screens, had every intention of turning down the invite. He’d been ready to politely decline, scurry up to his room, order in dinner and spend the rest of the night going over his notes from the day. Max had tried out the Melbourne circuit for the first time in the new car, and he’d wanted to review their sim report. But Max had asked, and Charles hadn’t known how to say no, not without sounding rude. He’d already turned down Max’s offers to dinner earlier in the week, and the repeated request to come play FIFA in his room. Charles figured he owed Max this one thing, especially when the olive branch had been extended so many times now that this might just be the last one before the Dutchman gave up entirely. 

“Just one drink?” he had asked, wary. 

Max had smiled, wide enough that his eyes crinkled. Charles couldn’t help but think he looked so much younger when he smiled like that, like the boy Charles had once known. 

“Just one drink,” he’d promised. 

That had been three hours ago. Charles, per his word, was still on his first beer. Max was on what Charles had estimated to be his fourth gin and tonic. He was loudly explaining the rules of padel to a group of technicians at the bar, while Charles absentmindedly ran his thumb along the glass in his hands. The headache pulsing just behind his eyes was on the verge of unbearable - the result of spending the entire week looking at data and numbers on screens that were too bright in a sim room that was kept too dim. Max did not seem to share this problem, not if the way he was bordering on shouting was any inclination.

Keep Reading

[baaztruckandtrailerrepairs]

Understanding the Bus Repair Process in Melbourne

Buses have been part and parcel of public transport, school commutes, and private charters in Melbourne. These are, by and large, subject to wear and tear and require prompt care and servicing to ensure they keep running safely and effectively. If you are a bus owner or operator, knowing what the bus repair process is will be important for the reliability of your fleet. This guide will walk you through the key stages of the bus repairs service in Melbourne and thus know what to expect and how to keep your buses in top condition.

1. Initial Inspection and Diagnosis

The inspection is the first process of bus repair services in Melbourne. Broken-down buses or running poorly or requiring general servicing always begin with detailed assessments on the part of the repair team. Checking the bus's engines, transmissions, braking system, and suspension would be among the prominent examples of major parts making up the bus.

This would be the time when diagnostic tools would typically be used to monitor for hidden problems that are not visible to the naked eye. For example, contemporary buses nowadays have advanced electrical and computer systems that can only be diagnosed with specific diagnostic equipment.

2. Detailed Report and Cost Estimate

Once the initial assessment is done, the repair shop will give you a report compiled with all the problems identified as well as what should be repaired. The report will contain an estimate of time and cost to complete the work. The best bus repair services in Melbourne like Baaz Truck and Trailer Repairs will have transparent pricing so that you exactly know how much you are going to be paid for the work.

Always read the report very attentively and ask questions if something is unclear. This would allow you to know the level of work that has to be done so you can determine the things that have to be addressed accordingly. If you are managing a fleet of buses, this helps you have a better budget for the maintenance and repair of many buses.

3. Work Starts

Once you approve an estimate, the actual repair work can begin. Depending upon what problems have arisen, Melbourne bus repair services can be very extensive and may comprise these jobs for your bus repairs:

Engine Repairs: Any sort of engine problem that is facing a disturbed and inefficient drive of the bus needs to be repaired so that the bus can continue its journey without problems. It can range from replacing worn-out parts to fixing leaks to completely overhauling the engine.

Brake System Repairs: Since many people use buses for transportation, the brakes must always be in perfect working condition. Brake system repairs may include changing the brake pads, hydraulic system correction, or a whole ABS recalibration.

Transmission Repairs: This is an area that must ensure the bus can change gears or that it shifts without any challenges. If the concern is shifting or maybe making some strange noises and there is some leakage using the transmission fluid, repairs may be needed.

Suspension and Steering Systems: Suspension and steering systems have very crucial functions in providing a comfortable ride and safe handling of the bus. Suspension or steering parts and problems might make the ride uncomfortable and, at times, insecure to drive.

Body and Cosmetic Work: Mechanically, bus repairs in Melbourne might not only complete the mechanical jobs but also carry out the body repairs, dents, scratches, or rusting on the exteriors of the bus. This is to ensure that the bus looks professionally great and does not promote further damage on the bus.

4. Replacing of Parts

One would find that most of the bus repairs are part replacements. These good bus repair services in Melbourne use high-quality parts. These may either be OEM or after-marketing, which are suited to the industrial standards. Likely to be replaced are such parts, such as

Engine parts- belts, hoses, filters

Brake pads, rotors, and calipers

Transmission components- gears, fluid, seals

Suspension elements -shocks, struts

Electrical systems- batteries, wiring, sensors

Quality parts in bus repair are very important for reliable and safe long-term operation.

5. Testing and Quality Control

Once you finish all the repairs and replacement, the bus will be tested to ensure everything is working pretty efficiently and safely, too. A great repair team tests the engine performance, the braking system, the shifting behavior of the transmission, or other mechanical elements for everything to be square.

Well, in major overhauls such as rebuilding an engine or replacing a transmission, even the repair services of the buses in Melbourne would make use of this to conduct a road test of the bus. This allows the technicians to test whether the bus runs under real conditions and whether all of its systems are working normally.

6. Final Inspection and Handover

Once the bus has passed all tests, a final inspection is conducted to ensure that everything is okay. This means that in the case of this bus, cleanup will be done, and the repair shop will give you full documentation of the work done on the bus. This is particularly important in terms of your documentation of your bus if it is part of a fleet that would require documented maintenance logs regularly.

Bus repair services in Melbourne will also give you guidelines on what ongoing maintenance will help in the prevention of having the same problem in the future. Preventive care is a must since it prolongs the life of your buses and prevents expensive repairs later. 

7. Post-Repair Support

A good bus repair in Melbourne does not only fix your bus and let you go. Indeed, most legitimate repair companies, like Baaz Truck and Trailer Repairs, provide post-repair support which even comes with part and labor warranties. You cannot wait for possible post-repair issues to be solved because the same service team will take care of it for you.

In addition, they can even propose a servicing schedule that would mean your buses remain in prime condition always. Proper servicing can extend the lifespan of your buses and reduce the risk of surprise breakdowns.

Conclusion

Understanding the stages of bus repair is vital for bus owners and fleet managers to be on top of the maintenance and repair processes. Even from preliminary inspection to after-service support, all these stages ensure your buses are safe, reliable, and performance-driven.

At Baaz Truck and Trailer Repairs, we specialize in high-quality bus repair services in Melbourne. We have the best of our trained members working, starting from routine maintenance to full-fledged repairing jobs. Contact us today for a consultation and keep your buses running at their best!

[sunshinecar]

How to Inspect Second Hand Cars for Sale in Melbourne: A Buyer’s Guide

Buying second hand cars for sale in Melbourne can be a great way to save money, but it's important to do your due diligence before making a purchase. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you inspect a used car and ensure you're getting a reliable vehicle:

1: Check the Vehicle's History

Vehicle History Report: Obtain the used Kia cars history report from a reputable provider like Carfax or PPSR. This report can reveal important information about the car's past, such as accidents, theft, or flood damage.

Service History: Ask for the car's service history. A well-maintained car with regular servicing is likely to be more reliable.

2: Conduct a Visual Inspection

Exterior: Check for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or rust.

Inspect the paintwork for consistency and any signs of repainting.

Examine the tyres for wear and tear, uneven tread, and proper inflation.

Look for any misaligned body panels or gaps between them.

Interior: Check for wear and tear on the seats, steering wheel, and gear shift.

Ensure all the interior features, such as power windows, air conditioning, and audio systems, are working properly.

Look for any unusual odours, such as smoke or mildew.

3: Perform a Test Drive

Engine Sound: Listen for any unusual noises, such as knocking or rattling.

Gear Shift: Ensure the gearshift is smooth and the clutch engages smoothly.

Steering: Check for any play or vibration in the steering wheel.

Brakes: Test the brakes for responsiveness and stopping power.

Suspension: Drive over different road surfaces to feel for any bumps or clunks.

Acceleration and Deceleration: Assess the car's acceleration and deceleration performance.

4: Mechanical Inspection

Engine: Check the engine oil for colour and consistency.

Inspect the coolant level and look for any signs of leakage.

Listen for any unusual noises from the engine bay.

Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or damage.

Belts and Hoses: Inspect the belts and hoses for wear and tear.

5: Professional Inspection

Consider hiring a qualified mechanic to conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle. Potential issues that might not be visible to the ordinary eye can be detected by a technician.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a reliable second-hand car in Melbourne. Happy car hunting!

Source: https://carsalesfootscray.blogspot.com/2024/11/how-to-inspect-second-hand-cars-for.html

[pigswithwings]

oh...

Many thanks to @/consistantly-changing for the description, as seen below.

[Image descriptions in order: an article titled "When You Give a Tree an Email Address". The subtitle says "The city of Melbourne assigned trees email addresses so citizens could report problems. Instead, people wrote thousands of love letters to their favorite trees." The article is by Adrienne Lafrance, and was posted on July 10, 2015. Above the headline, is a photo of a straight pathway surrounded by trees. The pathway is wide, and ends with a building in the distance. The whole photo is bathed in green light from the trees.]

[Two excerpts from the article, which say: Then the emails began to arrive. Milman writes that instead of damage reports, people began to write fan mail to trees, complimenting their looks and leaves and telling tales of how they'd helped them survive during inclement weather. Some trees even write back.]

["My dearest Ulmus," the message began.

"As I was leaving St. Mary's College today I was struck, not by a branch, but by your radiant beauty. You must get these messages all the time. You're such an attractive tree.

This is an excerpt of a letter someone wrote to a green-leaf elm, one of thousands of messages in an ongoing correspondence between the people of Melbourne, Australia, and the city's trees.]

[Several screenshots of messages to the trees, atop images of the trees they were sent to. They say: hey,

how ya doing?

- me

p.s would you consider your fingers to be your branches or your roots?]

[Dear Rose Gum,

Over the past year I have cycled by you each day and want you to know how much joy you give me.

No matter the weather or what is happening around you, you are strong, elegant and beautiful. I wanted you to know.

Love.]

[Dear Nettle,

I just moved in three months ago and I'm very glad that I can talk to you through this system. I live in the first floor and I can actually see you through my window!

I'm having trouble sleeping at night because of the noise of cars and ambulances at night, hope you're not suffering that much and be able to have a good sleep.

Thank you for blocking the noises from the street and wish the birds don't do harm to you. Pleasant to meet you and have a nice day!

Cheers!]

[Hello tree.

I don't actually know you, but recently I've been wondering what trees say.

A friend of mine gave me your contact information, so I thought I would go straight to the source.

So here is my question: what would you tell people if you could speak?]

[Dear beautiful grassland gum,

I know things may get a little glume-y when you only have grasses for company, but today is your day to shine! Happy National Eucalypt Day!

Your friend.]

[Hi Tree 1022794,

How's it going? I walk past you each day at uni, it's really great to see you out in the sun now that the scaffolding is down around Building 100. Hope it all goes well with the photosynthesis.

All the best.]

[Dear Smooth-barked Apple Myrtle,

I am your biggest admirer. I have always wanted to meet you, but tragically, I'm stuck in New York.

I think you are the most handsome tree of them all, tall with an inviting open canopy. I love to just dream of you, the smell of your clusters of white flowers, the sight of your lush, dark green foliage, and feel of your patterned bark.

You inspire me to live life to the fullest, and pursue my dreams; you keep growing despite the terrible tragedies in this world. You are loved and deserve the world.

Love, some person in New York]

[Dear Magnificent River Red Gum,

I admire you every day as I walk past you on my way to and from work. You seem to have been around for some time. Is there any chance that you were here for longer than the time of white settlement?

You look to me to be substantially older than any of the other trees around Princes Park. Is this true? Does this entitle you to any special treatment? How old might you be? Hopefully you will outlast me in the land of the living. I am very interested to know more of your history.

Regards and hope you enjoyed the rain this weekend after such a long dry month.]

[harrisonkiablog]

What Should You Look for When Buying a Used Kia?

Buying a used car can be a smart financial move, and a used Kia often offers great value. Kias are known for their reliability and affordability, but like any used car, there are several factors to consider to ensure you're making a wise purchase. 

Whether you're eyeing a sporty used Kia Melbourne Forte, a spacious Kia Sorento, or a compact Kia Rio, here's what you should look for when buying a used Kia.

Check the Vehicle History Report

Before diving into any mechanical inspections or test drives, obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report. Services providers provide crucial information about the car’s past, including:

Accident History: Verify if the car has been in any accidents and assess the severity of the damage.

Service Records: Look for regular maintenance and service records to gauge how well the car has been cared for.

Title Status: Ensure the car has a clean title and is not listed as salvage or rebuilt.

Verify the VIN

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to every car. Cross-check the VIN on the car's dashboard, driver’s side door frame, and engine bay with the one listed on the vehicle history report. This ensures that the car’s identity and history match up.

Inspect the Exterior and Interior

A thorough visual inspection can reveal potential issues:

Exterior: Look for any signs of rust, dents, or mismatched paint. Uneven gaps between body panels might indicate past accidents.

Interior: Check for wear and tear on seats, dashboard, and controls. Ensure that all electronics, including air conditioning, infotainment systems, and power windows, are functioning correctly.

Examine the Tires and Suspension

The condition of the tires can give you insights into the car’s alignment and suspension:

Tires: Check for uneven wear, which might indicate alignment or suspension problems. Ensure that the tread depth is sufficient.

Suspension: During a test drive, listen for unusual noises when going over bumps. The ride should be smooth, and the car should not pull to one side.

Review the Engine and Transmission

The engine and transmission are critical components of any car:

Engine: Check for any fluid leaks, unusual noises, or smoke. A well-maintained engine should start easily and run smoothly.

Transmission: Test the transmission by shifting through all gears. It should shift smoothly without any jerks or grinding noises.

Check for Recalls

Kias, like all used Kia Melbourne cars, are subject to recalls for safety or mechanical issues. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and input the VIN to see if the car has any outstanding recalls and if they have been addressed.

Review the Warranty and Return Policy

Many used Kias come with a limited warranty or a certified pre-owned (CPO) warranty if purchased from a dealer:

Warranty: Check what is covered under the warranty and its duration. Some warranties cover powertrains, while others may include additional benefits.

Return Policy: Understand the dealer’s return policy. Some dealers offer a short period during which you can return the car if you’re not satisfied.

Test Drive the Vehicle

A test drive is essential to get a feel for the car’s performance:

Driving Experience: Pay attention to how the car handles, brakes, and accelerates. Listen for any strange noises and test various driving conditions.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Ensure that the car is comfortable for you. Adjust the seats and steering wheel to make sure they suit your driving position.

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Consider having a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. They can identify any hidden issues that might not be visible during a regular inspection. This can provide additional peace of mind and potentially save you from costly repairs down the line.

Negotiate the Price

Once you’ve assessed the car’s condition and reviewed its history, use this information to negotiate the price. Be aware of the market value for the specific Kia model you’re interested in and use any issues you’ve found as leverage in your negotiation.

Final Thoughts

Buying a used Kia can be a rewarding experience if you approach it with careful consideration. By thoroughly checking the used Kia Melbourne vehicle history, inspecting the car’s condition, and taking it for a comprehensive test drive, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the reliability and value that a used Kia has to offer. 

Remember, a little due diligence can go a long way in ensuring your next vehicle is both reliable and enjoyable.

[harrisonhyundai21]

How to Get the Best Value on Hyundai Used Cars in Melbourne 

Purchasing a used car can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can secure a great deal on a Hyundai used cars Melbourne. 

Known for their reliability and value, Hyundai vehicles are a popular choice among Melbourne drivers. 

This guide will walk you through the key steps to ensure you get the best value for your money.

1. Understand Your Budget

Before you start shopping for a used Hyundai car, it’s crucial to establish your budget. Insurance, registration, and maintenance are factors in the purchase price and ongoing costs. 

Hyundai cars are known for affordability, but setting a clear budget will help you avoid overspending and narrow your options to what you can comfortably afford.

2. Research Models and Prices

Hyundai offers a range of models, from compact cars like the i30 to larger SUVs like the Tucson. 

Research the models that fit your needs and check their average used car prices in Melbourne. Websites such as Carsales, Drive, and Autotrader provide valuable insights into current market trends and prices. 

Understanding the price range for different Hyundai models will help you identify a fair deal when you come across one.

3. Check Vehicle History

Obtaining a comprehensive vehicle history report is essential when buying a used Hyundai. This report will reveal crucial information such as previous accidents, service records, and any outstanding finances on the vehicle. 

You can use services like REVS Check or PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) to get a detailed history report in Melbourne. 

A clean history report ensures you buy a car in good condition and helps avoid potential legal issues.

4. Inspect the Car Thoroughly

Physical inspection is a vital step in the buying process. If you are not confident in your ability to assess the car's condition, consider hiring a professional mechanic to inspect it. 

During the inspection, check for wear and tear signs, ensure the engine runs smoothly, and verify that all features and electronics function correctly. 

Pay attention to the vehicle’s tyres, brakes, and suspension, as these can be costly to repair if they are in poor condition.

5. Test Drive the Vehicle

A test drive is one of the best ways to assess the condition and performance of a Hyundai used cars Melbourne. 

Pay attention to how the car handles on different road surfaces, listen for unusual noises, and check the responsiveness of the brakes and steering. 

A test drive will also give you a feel for the car’s comfort and suitability for your driving needs. 

Drive in various conditions, such as city streets and highways, to comprehensively understand the vehicle's performance.

6. Negotiate the Price

Once you have inspected the car and taken it for a test drive, it’s time to negotiate the price. 

Knowledge is power in negotiations, so be prepared with your research on the vehicle’s market value and condition. 

Don’t be afraid to negotiate, as many sellers expect some haggling. Be polite but firm, and be prepared to leave if the terms are unfavourable.

7. Review the Warranty and Return Policy

Many dealerships offer warranties on used cars, which can provide peace of mind in case something goes wrong after the purchase. 

Check the warranty details to understand what is covered and for how long. Some dealers also offer a return policy, allowing you to return the car within a certain period if you are unsatisfied. 

Review these policies carefully to ensure you are protected in case of any issues with the vehicle.

8. Secure Financing

If you are not paying for the car outright, securing financing is crucial. Compare loan options from different lenders, including banks, credit unions, and dealership finance departments. 

Look for the best interest rates and loan terms to ensure you get the most favourable financing deal. 

Getting pre-approved for a loan can also strengthen your negotiating position with the seller.

9. Complete the Paperwork

Once you have agreed on a price and secured financing, ensure all necessary paperwork is completed accurately. 

This includes the sale agreement, ownership transfer, and other legal documents. In Melbourne, you must complete the VicRoads Transfer of Registration form to transfer vehicle ownership officially. 

Ensure all documents are correctly filled out and signed to avoid complications later.

10. Final Checks and Delivery

Before finalising the purchase, conduct a final check to ensure that everything is in order. 

Confirm that you have received all relevant documents, including the vehicle history report, service records, and warranty information. 

Arrange for the delivery of the car or pick it up from the dealership. Make sure that the car is in the condition agreed upon and that all features and accessories are as promised.

Conclusion

Getting the best value on a Hyundai used cars Melbourne involves careful planning, research, and inspection. 

Following these steps, you can confidently navigate the used car market and find a Hyundai that meets your needs and budget. 

Remember to stay informed, evaluate thoroughly, and negotiate wisely to secure a great deal. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your new Hyundai with peace of mind. Source By: How to Get the Best Value on Hyundai Used Cars in Melbourne

[onsiteair]

Noise Report Melbourne: Expert Acoustic Solutions by Clarity Acoustic

Melbourne’s dynamic urban landscape, thriving industries, and bustling transportation systems have made noise pollution an inevitable concern. As the city expands, so too does the challenge of managing noise levels in residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Noise pollution, if unchecked, can affect the health and well-being of residents, disrupt businesses, and lead to environmental issues. To address these concerns, Clarity Acoustic offers professional noise reports that provide a thorough assessment of noise levels, identify sources of noise, and suggest effective mitigation strategies. This article delves into the importance of Noise Report Melbourne and how Clarity Acoustic helps clients navigate regulatory standards while ensuring a healthier environment for all. 

Understanding Noise Reports 

A noise report is a detailed document that evaluates the noise levels in a specific environment and identifies the impact of noise pollution. These reports are critical in various scenarios, such as construction, infrastructure projects, industrial operations, and urban developments. In Melbourne, noise reports are essential to meet the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria’s stringent noise control regulations. 

Clarity Acoustic specializes in producing noise reports tailored to different sectors, ensuring compliance with noise regulations and helping to maintain community well-being. Whether it’s a construction project near a residential area or an industrial operation close to a natural reserve, a noise report helps in determining whether noise levels are within acceptable limits and what steps can be taken to manage or reduce them. 

Why Noise Reports Are Important in Melbourne 

Melbourne’s rapid urbanization has led to increased noise pollution, making noise reports more relevant than ever. Here’s why noise reports are crucial: 

1. Regulatory Compliance 

One of the primary reasons for commissioning a noise report is to ensure compliance with local and state noise regulations. The EPA Victoria has set specific noise limits for residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to penalties, project delays, or legal challenges. A detailed noise report helps businesses, developers, and contractors avoid these issues by identifying areas where noise exceeds allowable limits and recommending necessary mitigation measures. 

2. Health and Well-being 

Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can have severe effects on public health. Noise pollution has been linked to issues such as hearing loss, increased stress, sleep disturbances, and reduced productivity. In densely populated areas of Melbourne, particularly in residential zones, minimizing noise pollution is essential to protecting the health of the community. Noise reports help identify high-risk noise sources and provide solutions to mitigate their impact, fostering a quieter and healthier living environment. 

3. Environmental Protection 

Noise pollution doesn’t only affect people; it can have a significant impact on the environment. Wildlife in and around Melbourne, particularly in areas close to nature reserves or parks, can suffer from increased noise levels, which may interfere with their natural behaviors and habitats. Noise reports include assessments of how noise pollution impacts nearby ecosystems, enabling businesses and developers to make informed decisions that reduce environmental harm. 

4. Project and Business Operations 

In addition to public health and environmental protection, noise reports are valuable tools for businesses and projects to manage their operations more efficiently. A comprehensive noise report can provide insights into how construction schedules, industrial activities, or entertainment events might affect surrounding areas, allowing businesses to adopt strategies that minimize disruption and maintain good relations with the community. 

Components of a Noise Report 

Clarity Acoustic follows a systematic approach when preparing noise reports. Each report includes a detailed analysis of noise sources, measurements, impact assessments, and mitigation recommendations. The key components of a noise report include: 

1. Noise Measurement and Monitoring 

The first step in preparing a noise report is conducting accurate noise measurements. Clarity Acoustic’s team uses advanced sound level meters to capture real-time noise levels over a specific period. The measurements include both continuous and intermittent noise sources, providing a comprehensive overview of the sound environment. Noise levels are typically monitored during both peak and off-peak hours to ensure a thorough analysis. 

2. Noise Source Identification 

Once noise levels are measured, the next step is identifying the sources of the noise. In Melbourne, noise pollution can originate from multiple sources, including traffic, construction activities, industrial operations, and public events. By identifying each source, Clarity Acoustic can develop a tailored mitigation strategy that addresses the most problematic areas, ensuring that noise reduction efforts are both efficient and effective. 

3. Impact Assessment 

The impact assessment is one of the most critical aspects of a noise report. It involves analyzing how the identified noise sources affect the surrounding environment and communities. The assessment considers factors such as the proximity of residential areas, schools, hospitals, and commercial zones. It also differentiates between daytime and nighttime noise impacts, as acceptable noise levels vary depending on the time of day and location. 

4. Mitigation Strategies 

Once the impact assessment is complete, Clarity Acoustic provides a list of practical and cost-effective noise mitigation strategies. These may include: 

Installing sound barriers or acoustic fences around construction sites or industrial areas. 

Implementing soundproofing measures in buildings, such as double-glazed windows and thicker walls. 

Scheduling noisy operations during daytime hours to minimize nighttime disturbances. 

Redesigning layouts to direct noise away from sensitive areas. 

The goal is to reduce noise levels to meet regulatory standards while minimizing disruption to business operations and ensuring a positive outcome for all stakeholders. 

5. Compliance with EPA Standards 

Finally, the noise report ensures that all findings and recommendations align with EPA Victoria’s noise control guidelines. This includes ensuring that noise levels comply with specific zoning regulations, which differ depending on the type of area (residential, commercial, industrial) and the time of day. By adhering to these standards, businesses and developers can avoid costly penalties and keep their projects on track. 

Common Scenarios for Noise Reports in Melbourne 

Noise reports are required in a variety of contexts in Melbourne, including: 

1. Construction Projects 

Construction is one of the biggest contributors to noise pollution, especially in urban areas. Noise reports are essential for ensuring that construction activities comply with noise regulations and do not excessively disturb nearby residents or businesses. These reports can also recommend scheduling and operational changes to minimize the impact of construction noise. 

2. Transport Infrastructure 

Melbourne’s busy roads, railways, and airports generate significant noise pollution. Clarity Acoustic provides noise reports that help local councils and transport authorities assess the impact of these transportation networks and develop solutions, such as noise barriers, to reduce their effect on surrounding areas. 

3. Industrial and Commercial Sites 

Factories, warehouses, and industrial complexes often produce significant noise, particularly when operating machinery and equipment. Noise reports help these sites understand how their activities affect nearby residential or commercial zones, ensuring they meet EPA standards and reduce the risk of complaints from neighbors. 

4. Entertainment Venues 

Live music venues, nightclubs, and outdoor festivals are part of Melbourne’s vibrant entertainment scene, but they also contribute to noise pollution. Noise reports for entertainment venues help operators manage sound levels and avoid disruptions to nearby residential areas, ensuring they comply with local noise regulations. 

Clarity Acoustic: A Trusted Name in Noise Management 

Clarity Acoustic has built a reputation in Melbourne for providing thorough and reliable noise reports. Their team of experienced acoustic engineers offers a range of services to suit different industries and projects, from small residential developments to large-scale industrial operations. With their local expertise and cutting-edge technology, Clarity Acoustic ensures accurate noise measurement, precise analysis, and actionable recommendations. 

Tailored Solutions: Clarity Acoustic understands that every project has unique needs. They offer customized noise mitigation strategies that are designed to meet the specific requirements of each client. 

Advanced Technology: Clarity Acoustic uses the latest in noise measurement and monitoring technology to ensure precise data collection and analysis. 

Expert Knowledge of Local Regulations: With in-depth knowledge of EPA Victoria’s guidelines and Melbourne’s local council regulations, Clarity Acoustic ensures that all their noise reports are compliant with legal requirements, reducing the risk of delays or penalties. 

Conclusion 

In a city as dynamic and fast-growing as Melbourne, noise pollution is an inevitable challenge that requires careful management. Clarity Acoustic provides expert noise reports that help businesses, developers, and local authorities navigate the complexities of noise control regulations. By offering accurate assessments and tailored mitigation strategies, Clarity Acoustic plays a crucial role in creating a quieter, healthier, and more sustainable environment for everyone in Melbourne. Whether you are planning a new construction project, managing an industrial site, or running a live entertainment venue, Clarity Acoustic’s noise reports will ensure that you meet your noise management goals while adhering to regulatory standards. 

[motorgroup]

A Comprehensive Guide to Used Car Shopping in South Morang

Buying a used car can be an exciting yet daunting experience. With a myriad of options available, it’s essential to make informed decisions to ensure you get the best value for your money. South Morang, a vibrant suburb of Melbourne, offers a variety of used car dealerships and private sellers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to find the perfect used car in South Morang, covering everything from initial research to final purchase.

Why Choose South Morang for Used Car Shopping?

South Morang is an ideal location for used car shopping due to its diverse inventory and reputable dealerships. The area is home to several well-established dealers who offer a range of vehicles to suit different budgets and preferences. Additionally, the competitive market in South Morang often leads to better prices and more options compared to other regions.

Steps to Finding the Perfect Used Car

1. Define Your Needs and Budget

Before you start your search, it’s crucial to determine what you need in a vehicle. Consider factors such as:

Size and Type: Do you need a compact car for city driving, an SUV for family trips, or a utility vehicle for work purposes?

Features: Make a list of must-have features such as fuel efficiency, safety features, infotainment systems, and more.

Budget: Establish a budget that includes not just the purchase price, but also additional costs like insurance, registration, and potential repairs.

2. Research and Compare

With your needs and budget in mind, start researching the models that fit your criteria. Use online resources like car review websites, forums, and dealership inventories to compare different makes and models. Pay attention to:

Reliability Ratings: Check reviews and ratings to understand the reliability of the models you’re considering.

Market Prices: Look at the average prices for the models in South Morang to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

3. Check Vehicle History

Once you have a shortlist of potential vehicles, it’s essential to check their history. A comprehensive vehicle history report can provide crucial information about:

Accident History: Whether the car has been in any accidents and the extent of the damage.

Ownership Records: The number of previous owners and how the car was used.

Service Records: Maintenance history to ensure the car has been well taken care of.

4. Inspect and Test Drive

Before making any decisions, always inspect the car in person and take it for a test drive. Here’s what to look for:

Exterior: Check for any signs of damage, rust, or paint inconsistencies.

Interior: Ensure the seats, controls, and features are in good condition and functioning properly.

Under the Hood: Look for any leaks, corrosion, or worn-out parts.

Test Drive: Pay attention to how the car handles, brakes, and accelerates. Listen for any unusual noises.

5. Negotiate the Price

When you’re satisfied with a vehicle, it’s time to negotiate the price. Use your research on market prices to make a reasonable offer. Be prepared to walk away if the dealer isn’t willing to negotiate – there are plenty of other options in South Morang.

Reputable Dealerships in South Morang

South Morang boasts several reputable dealerships known for their quality inventory and customer service. Some of the top-rated dealerships include:

South Morang Motors: Known for their extensive selection of used cars and transparent pricing, South Morang Motors offers vehicles that have undergone thorough inspections.

Metro Used Cars: This dealership is popular for its competitive pricing and excellent customer service. They offer a variety of financing options to suit different budgets.

Northern Motor Group: With a wide range of used cars from various brands, Northern Motor Group is a trusted name in South Morang. They provide detailed vehicle histories and warranties for added peace of mind.

Finalizing Your Purchase

Once you’ve agreed on a price, there are a few final steps before you can drive away in your new (used) car:

Inspection by a Mechanic: Consider having the car inspected by an independent mechanic for an unbiased assessment.

Finalize Financing: If you’re financing your purchase, ensure all paperwork is in order and understand the terms of your loan.

Transfer Ownership: Complete the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership and register the car in your name.

Conclusion

Used car shopping in South Morang can be a rewarding experience if you take the time to research, inspect, and negotiate wisely. By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the process with confidence and find a vehicle that meets your needs and budget. Remember, the key to a successful purchase is being informed and patient. Happy car shopping.

[lauvra]

The house was perpetually struck by singular blasts of wind this morning, distinctly not shaking but rather like it were being pelted and I laid my hand across Penny twice to check whether she was the cause of the bed shaking, then heard a helicopter and waited for the crash. I felt the strong foreshadowing that today would go awry in some spectacular fashion. Opening my eyes around 7:30AM, I immediately reached for my phone to check the news. Transport delays, halted trams and trains and a chemical factory fire in Melbourne's West. Reading the news report and residential cautions (keep car windows up, stay indoors, ensure AC vents are closed, fire expected to burn for days, lists of expected affected suburbs, we don't know what's in those chemicals) was like reading De Lilo's White Noise point by point. I screenshot the article to send my friend in Berlin, then didn't, remembering every time we caught up last he'd ask if I'd finished the book yet, and for some reason I've completed a dozen books in the meantime but not that final chapter. That's when I remembered I'd also woken up from a complicated dream. It was the second of its kind, and I hadn't written the first down, it seemed to relay fears from my subconscious I wasn't ready to confront. In my dream I fall asleep on the lounge in the living room. When I wake within the dream, the entire room looks different and my housemate's partner has redecorated. There are playful new cushions, curtains and furniture, and they're snuggled together on the couch adjacent. I say nothing, slam my bedroom door closed and fall asleep. I dream within the dream. I'm standing in an open public space, when dozens of vans pull up and people in blue-grey uniforms jump out holding weapons, yelling. They look over me. Someone says they're not looking for people like me. They announce themselves as I.C.E. and in the dream I criticize my own creativity. They start ripping down street-art murals by the brick. Someone says they're tearing down the work by international artists, for legal reasons. I wake from my dream within a dream, hearing a TV news segment blasting loudly from the living room. Kevin Rudd with his gentle, personable voice announces that people on visas are being removed from the country, for the safety of Australia's citizens. I look to the lounge where my housemate and his partner are still nestled, and there is an Indigenous woman and her son beside them with faces glued to the screen, horrified. I assume they're our neighbours. That's it. Being friends with an ex is difficult at times, but we consider each other family. I'm sure we're too close, but it's too late. When he entered into a relationship a couple of years ago, I felt unsettled around the person and turned inward worrying the problem was mine, that maybe I'd never be happy for him finding love, but realised through the events of that union that that wasn't what it was. When he met this partner, I liked them from the word Go. They're gentle, kind, ultra-creative, generous, sweet, funny, interesting, considerate and just all around lovely. Just like Jack. I'm so happy for him and for them, I see a forever union there. I'm temperamental, at times childish, stubborn and cherish my solitude. Living with anybody can be difficult, living with an ex even when they've long surpassed romantic affiliation and held a purely platonic position for 6+ years still has it's difficulties. When he buys them flowers out of no where, and asks for my input in-store it's hard not to consider the years together I was told flowers were a bad gift because they die. When they go on dates, and celebrate anniversaries, it's hard not to consider that we never did those things. Jack's my best mate, we've spoken about every deep resentment, mistake, dark thought or nuanced reflection under the sun, we have bore witness to one another's growth, trials and tribulations. I still worry when I have dreams that appear to imply a fear of being replaced. I realise it's a natural concern, and unwarranted here. What a complicated dream, though.

[harrisonsuzuki]

Ultimate Guide To Car Service: Everything You Need To Know

Whether you're a seasoned car owner or a newbie behind the wheel, understanding the ins and outs of Car Service in Melbourne is crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Regular maintenance not only ensures your safety on the road but also extends the lifespan of your car. Here’s everything you need to know to stay on top of your car’s health.

What Is Car Service?

A car service in Melbourne involves a series of maintenance procedures performed at regular intervals or based on specific mileage. It includes checking and replacing essential components such as fluids, filters, and worn-out parts to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Why Is Regular Car Service Important?

Regular Car Service in Melbourne is like a health checkup for your car. It helps identify potential issues early on, preventing costly repairs down the road. Moreover, routine maintenance improves fuel efficiency, reduces emissions, and maintains the resale value of your vehicle.

Signs Your Car Needs A Service

It’s essential to recognise when your car requires attention. Look out for signs such as strange noises, dashboard warning lights, decreased fuel efficiency, or unusual vibrations. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from escalating.

Choosing The Right Service Provider

When selecting a provider for car service in Melbourne, prioritise expertise and reliability. Look for certified mechanics or authorised service centres that use genuine parts and follow manufacturer guidelines. Reading reviews and getting recommendations from friends can also help you make an informed decision.

What To Expect During A Car Service

During a Car Service in Melbourne, expect a thorough inspection of key components like brakes, tyres, suspension, and engine. Fluid levels will be checked and topped up as needed, and filters may be replaced. The service provider should provide a detailed report of findings and any recommended repairs or replacements.

DIY Maintenance Tips

While professional servicing is essential, there are several maintenance tasks you can perform yourself between services. These include checking tyre pressure, monitoring fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), and keeping an eye on the condition of belts and hoses.

Common Services Offered

Services offered during a Car Service in Melbourne typically include oil changes, brake inspections, tyre rotations, battery checks, and alignment adjustments. Depending on your car’s age and mileage, additional services like transmission fluid flush or air filter replacement may be recommended.

Importance Of Scheduled Servicing

Following your car manufacturer’s recommended service schedule is crucial. It ensures that your vehicle receives the necessary maintenance at the right intervals based on its age, mileage, and usage patterns. This proactive approach can prevent breakdowns and maintain optimal performance.

Cost Of Car Servicing

The cost of Car Service in Melbourne varies depending on the type of service and your car’s make and model. While regular maintenance might seem like an expense, it’s an investment that can save you money in the long run by preventing major repairs and breakdowns.

Conclusion

Regular Car Service in Melbourne is essential for keeping your car in top condition and ensuring your safety on the road. By understanding the importance of maintenance, choosing the right service provider, and staying proactive with your vehicle’s care, you can enjoy a smoother driving experience and extend the lifespan of your beloved car.