#private gated community

[celebrityhomela]

Inside the Luxurious Durham Mansion of Basketball Legend Mike Krzyzewski

Step into the luxurious Durham mansion of basketball legend Mike Krzyzewski. This grand structure, nestled in a private gated community, offers a blend of luxury and comfort, reflecting the life of passion, dedication, and hard-earned success of Coach K. Visit: https://www.omnihomeideas.com/design/celebrity-homes/mike-krzyzewski-house-in-durham/

[tinyshe]

Oregon [usa] has been shutting down small farms and market gardens in a pretty aggressive manner. They're even resorting to sending out cease and desist letters to these farms, using satellite tech to track them down first. Their justification? Water conservation and protecting groundwater. They're wielding two laws in particular to make this happen.

[mindfulnutritionsblog]

Golf Course Road’s Hidden Gems: Top Exclusive Residences to Own Now

When it comes to luxury apartments in Gurugram, Golf Course Road stands tall as the city’s most sought-after location. From green landscapes to gated privacy, the exclusive residencies on Golf Course Road offer more than just a home—they promise a lifestyle. Let’s uncover some of these hidden gems you can call your own.

Why Golf Course Road Is Gurgaon’s Most Premium Address

Golf Course Road is not just another location. It's the heart of Gurugram’s urban luxury. Located near top MNCs, luxury malls, fine-dining spots, and hospitals, this stretch is a seamless blend of business, lifestyle, and green living. The road is also well-connected to MG Road, Sohna Road, and Cyber City—making daily commute smooth and fast. Plus, the presence of the Rapid Metro makes it even more convenient for working professionals.

Luxury Apartments in Gurgaon: What Makes Golf Course Road Special?

The luxury apartments in Gurgaon along this road are designed with world-class amenities. Think infinity pools, private elevators, personal gardens, smart home systems, and dedicated concierge services. These aren't just buildings—they're lifestyle hubs. The quality of construction, branded interiors, and green surroundings attract HNIs, NRIs, and investors looking for high-value homes.

Hidden Gems: Top Exclusive Residencies on Golf Course Road

Some of the most desirable projects include DLF The Camellias, M3M Golf Estate, and IREO Grand Hyatt Residences. These homes offer panoramic golf course views, high-end interiors, and luxury layouts. With limited units, they provide exclusivity, security, and premium privacy—perfect for those who value peace in the heart of the city.

Interesting Fact: Golf Course Road vs. Other Prime Areas

Did you know Golf Course Road properties have shown over 30% value appreciation in the last five years? That’s higher than many other prime locations like South Delhi or Noida. Also, the resale value here is among the highest in NCR. Investors are increasingly focusing on this location due to its long-term growth potential and elite neighborhood.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Buy

With limited edition apartments and high demand, prices are on the rise. Developers are offering flexible payment plans and exclusive pre-launch discounts. If you’ve been eyeing a premium address, this is the right time to invest. The newer developments also offer eco-friendly features like rainwater harvesting, solar power, and smart lighting—making them future-ready.

FAQs – Quick Answers You Need to Know

Q1: Are these residences good for rental income? A: Yes, they offer high rental yield and are always in demand among expats and corporate professionals.

Q2: Can NRIs invest in these properties? A: Absolutely. Most projects offer dedicated NRI services and easy purchase processes.

Final Thoughts: Living the Elite Life

If you’re looking for exclusive residencies on Golf Course Road, now is your chance. With rising property values, top-tier amenities, and unmatched location benefits, these homes offer the lifestyle you deserve. Whether for personal use or investment, luxury projects Gurugram—especially on Golf Course Road—are a smart and classy move.

Also read :  Luxury Apartments in Gurgaon: Where Elite Living Meets Smart Investment

Ultra Luxury Homes Near Dwarka Expressway Are Selling Fast — Here's Why

Luxury Projects Gurugram & DLF Senior Living in Sec 63 Gurgaon: The New Face of Luxury & Security for Seniors

HIGH-END VILLAS IN SOUTH DELHI AND GURGAON

[gdesignsme]

Explore Meydan Dubai: Apartments for Sale with Unique Features

Introduction to Meydan Dubai Meydan Dubai, an ultra-modern development located in the heart of the city, is more than just a residential area; it’s a vibrant community that embodies luxury, convenience, and innovation. Known for its iconic racecourse and world-class amenities, Meydan offers a unique blend of urban living within a serene environment. With a diverse range of apartments for sale,…

[concertphotos]

La Gorce Island Private Island Estates in Miami Beach Aerial View by David Oppenheimer Via Flickr: La Gorce Island private island luxury estates in Miami Beach aerial view - © 2024 David Oppenheimer - Performance Impressions aerial photography archives - performanceimpressions.com

[inboundremblog]

Sunrise Harbor: A Waterfront Paradise on Biscayne Bay

Credit: Image by Antilles Realty

Sunrise Harbor is the epitome of a luxurious lifestyle in the lap of nature over the beautiful Biscayne Bay. This affluent area is in Miami, characterized by beautiful surrounding homes, canals ideal for water lovers, and a stunning view of the natural Florida coastline. The combination of grand single homes and glossy, upscale apartment high-rises allows for the broadest possible appeal: families searching for square footage upon square footage in their homes to empty nesters or young professionals in search of the convenience of city living with the bonus of ocean breezes.

In this article, we will discuss why Sunrise Harbor is not only a place that you can live in; it is a place to live by, being a hub of activity for outdoor enthusiasts, the architecture marvels of the two high rises overlooking the harbor, and a walking distance from Miami's attractions. Sunrise Harbor has it all; if it is fun in the water, life on a luxury shopping splurge, or just the beautiful sea view from the balcony.

Sunrise Harbor: A Waterfront Dream for Boating and Water Sporting Enthusiasts

One of Sunrise Harbor's most vital selling points is that it borders Biscayne Bay. The neighborhood of these houses is divided by numerous relatively shallow channels, and the homes give direct access to deeper parts of the bay. This makes it ideal for people who love boats, as they can sail from their compound straight into the clear water. This means families that like to yacht, those who go sailing, and even those who prefer kayaking will never be too far from Sunrise Harbor.

Besides boats, the neighborhood is ideal for all forms of water activities for the following reasons: Boating, paddleboarding, and surfing, which are some of the activities that the people in Miami can practice throughout the year since the area has a warm climate. The bay's waters are also clear, making it an ideal destination for everybody's favorite underwater activities, such as scuba diving and snorkeling, and right in your backyard. It feels like moving from the bed directly to the paddleboard and starting your early morning paddle through the beautiful canal from Sunrise Harbor

Luxury Mansions Designed for Elegance and Comfort

Sunrise Harbor accommodates 80 mansions, of which every building has a Guinness record of architectural engravement. These are not just simple houses; they are elegant designs of some residential units, many of which have Mediterranean and modern architectures that fit significantly with the natural tropical environment. Luxury plots and well-trimmed greens give the property owners a comfortably isolated haven from the busy world compared to buildings with adjacent spaces.

Currently, the homes in Sunrise Harbor consist of vast living areas that can comfortably accommodate all family sizes and types. In need of a small family house or a large palace – Sunrise Harbor mansions offer enough space for each family. Most residences have great rooms with gourmet kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and breathtaking seek of Biscayne Bay. It is available for indoor amenities and the whole exterior, with a private pool, outdoor kitchen, oversized patios, and incredible water views.

The natural environment has lush vegetation and beautiful gardens, and those with keen nature interests will especially be impressed by the general layout of the houses. These architectural features offer many opportunities to spend time outdoors, arrange parties and other events, and enjoy the magnificent views of the ambiance of water.

Luxury Apartments of High Rises with Exceptional Views

If you desire a non-gulf-view condo with luxury and a sophisticated lifestyle, Sunrise Harbor provides several high-rise condos with the same spectacular view. These condos are available as an option for mansion living, though with the same level of sophistication and luxury. People living in these skyscrapers have unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, allowing them to live in harmony in a natural setting and a concrete jungle.

The condominiums in Sunrise Harbor are lifestyle-friendly and were developed for the current generation of homeowners. These units are highly desirable due to large open spaces, expansive windows, and optimized technological optimization inside the units. Some condos even have people's balconies, and they enjoy some of Miami's most beautiful golden moments: sunsets and sunrises.

Apart from stunning skyline scenery, Sunshine Harbor's high-rise condos also have many other advantages. The exterior designs of the buildings include swimming pools, fitness centers, concierge services, and many others. Everything a resident needs can easily be found in the building. That is why all the conveniences and the excellent view also become significant advantages of the condominiums in Sunrise Harbor.

Prime Location Near Coconut Grove and Downtown Miami

This is one of Sunrise Harbor's strengths because the company operates in a strategic location. The neighborhood's proximity to Coconut Grove and Downtown Miami means that residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: the relative isolation achieved by living on the water while still enjoying all the city's amenities.

With its artsy and somewhat hippie appeal and extensive use of greenery, Coconut Grove is just ten minutes by car. This young area provides numerous opportunities to taste a true cultural life by visiting museums, galleries, and theaters here. Families will be drawn to the nearness of many of Miami's best schools to raise their children and parks for children to play in.

In addition, for people who like going shopping and eating out, Sunrise Harbor is surrounded by some of the best in Miami. Luxury goods shops, concept stores, malls, fine dining and casual dining restaurants, cafes, and more are already in the city. From simply the craving for fresh seafood meals to the desire for exotic meals to a cup of coffee at an isolating café, all are available within a few minute's drive from Sunrise Harbor.

A Community Specifically Created for the Wilderness Lovers

Sunrise Harbor is surrounded by nature and the outdoors, so people here are bound to lead very outdoor lives. The neighborhood's layout also helps people make the most of the natural environment. Besides water activities like water skiing, snorkeling, water polo, and kayaking, there are numerous other activities in the area, such as cycling, running, and bird-watching.

One of the most social activities people can engage in in a waterfront neighborhood is walking, jogging, cycling, or even rollerblading in the early morning or late evening when the sun has set. There are parks and nature reserves nearby for nature enthusiasts, which provide a natural environment, including opportunities for picnics, trekking, and watching wildlife.

An Exclusive Yet Welcoming Community

In contrast to most luxury apartments, Sunrise Harbor is designed to provide its users with a feeling of community. One characteristic separates the neighborhood from others: it is small and united. People know each other, and regular parties are organized—social activities at Sunrise Harbor range from block parties and yacht clubs to parties around the pool Basin. The residents have pride in the accomplishments and unity displayed by the community.

That welcoming environment, along with the beautiful sunrises and luxurious features of the neighborhood, help to make Sunrise Harbor one of the most popular areas to live in Miami today. In other words, it's an environment where families can progress, retirees may rejuvenate, and business persons can get some solitude away from the daily stress.

Sunrise Harbor is a waterfront neighborhood with a lavish lifestyle rich with elegance, fun experiences, and easy access. It is situated in Biscayne Bay, where people can engage in boating, marine, and water recreational activities from their homes. It comprises large luxury houses, formidable tall apartments, and condos, meaning people with diverse lifestyles and different demands can easily be fulfilled in this region.

Cohabitants of this area can enjoy all that Miami offers, including schools, parks, shopping facilities, and fine dining. Coconut Grove and Downtown Miami surround this peaceful neighborhood. Sunrise Harbor represents a unique place for those who appreciate the opportunities to spend time outside, the architectural design of the buildings, and social walking.

Whether you're an outdoor person passionate about surrounding nature, an admirer of water and boats, or just a person who prefers living comfortably, Sunrise Harbor is the right place for you.

Experience the ultimate in luxury waterfront living at Sunrise Harbor, where breathtaking sunrises, modern amenities, and serene landscapes come together to create an unmatched coastal lifestyle. Visit our website to learn more about what we offer. https://makecoralgableshome.com/coral-gables/sunrise-harbor/

Sunrise Harbor, your perfect waterfront retreat with stunning views and modern amenities.

[staff]

Tumblr! They’re here. Communities are finally here. 

Communities are a new and easy way to connect with the people on Tumblr who get it. You can invite mutuals who share your obsessions to a private Community or start a public Community for the things you love and watch all the new friends pile in. Like a clown car, Communities can fit (almost) as many people in ‘em as you want.

Today, we’re hatching Communities out of their beta shell and launching them at your collective Tumblr experience—for you to enjoy and tinker with as we continue to build them out. We’re talking globally, on web, iOS, and Android. Buckle up, baby. We’re going to be so normal about this.

You can make a Community for just about anything. Art. Gravity Falls. Knitting. Your current D&D campaign. Photography. Obscure ships. The gay people in your phone. Music. Science. Fashion. Design. Baldur’s Gate 3. You’re the wielder of your own destiny. And, thanks to our delightful early testing users, there are already so many for you to join. Hazbin Hotel? Check. Arcane? Check. The Phandom? Check, check, check.

How do you get started? 

You can browse Communities over here. 

Find specific Communities by tapping the Communities tab at the top of the search results page.

Want to create your very own Community? Right this way, maestro.

Here’s a help doc for any questions you might have.

We’re excited to see what you do with this. Go forth, hang out, have fun.

[sensualnoiree]

1st House: The Helm This is where your spiritual energy and identity take the spotlight. The 1st House governs your appearance, personality, and vitality—the essence of how you project yourself to the world. It’s your steez, your approach to life, and the first impression you make on others. The 1st House is all about beginnings, the mask you may unknowingly wear, and how you come to know yourself on a deep authentic level. The captain of this ship is the ruling planet of the zodiac sign residing there.

2nd House: Gate of Hades Your values, self-esteem, and ability to attract wealth are all tied to the 2nd House. This is where your personal resources, possessions, and financial matters come into play. The foods you eat, your saving and spending habits, and your sense of self-worth are all part of this house. It’s where your style and material wealth are rooted, reflecting how you value yourself and what you own. This house represents how you sustain for yourself, how you support all that the first house needs of you to be who you are.

3rd House: Goddess The 3rd House is the domain of communication, early education, and the mind. It governs how you gather and process information, your intellect, and your interactions within your community. This house also encompasses your relationships with siblings, short travels, and technical skills. It’s the space where your to-do list and daily mental activities take shape.

4th House: Subterranean Deeply connected to your roots, the 4th House represents your home, heritage, and ancestry. It’s where your inner life and sense of security are nurtured, influenced by your upbringing and relationship with your parents—especially the mother. This house also relates to land, generational gifts, and knowledge passed down through the family. It’s a space of femininity and the feminine energies in your life. This is the lowest point of the birth chart and can be fairly private and personal-as opposed to the 10th house. It holds up the rest of the chart and is incredibly important in terms of learning about our sense of security/stability emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

5th House: Good Fortune Joy, creativity, and self-expression flourish in the 5th House. This is where you experience the pleasures of life—love affairs, children, art, and entertainment. It’s the house of flirtation, play, and drama, where your passions come to life. The 5th House also governs leisure activities, fertility, and the pursuit of happiness through creative endeavors. A sense of nostalgia lives here too.

6th House: Bad Fortune The 6th House deals with work, health, and daily routines. It’s the space of labor, servitude, and the duties that never seem to end. This house also governs how you care for your body, deal with illness and injury, and interact with employees or pets. It’s where the unexpected challenges in life arise, requiring your attention and resilience. Look here for understanding on what great works you may find yourself committing to.

7th House: Setting Place Relationships take center stage in the 7th House. This is where you finally begin to truly engage with others, forming long-term commitments, whether in marriage, partnerships, or friendships. It’s the house of open enemies, where you face the other in life. The 7th House also governs relaxation, romance, and the deep bonds that define your connections with others.

8th House: The Idle Place Death, transformation, and shared resources are key themes in the 8th House. It’s where you confront karma, contracts, and generational lessons. This house also deals with loans, debts, and the deep psyche—the mysteries and fears that lie beneath the surface. The 8th House is a place of soul material, where you explore the unseen and the unknown. Here, you face all consequences-positive & negative- of the 7th house and the relationships, contracts, and potential enemies made there. This is the house of others esteem of you, opposite of the 2nd.

9th House: House of God The 9th House is your portal to higher knowledge, philosophy, and spiritual exploration. It governs your worldview, ethics, and the pursuit of truth through study, travel, and discovery. This house is where you connect with religion, spirituality, and the higher mind, expanding your understanding of the world and your place in it.

10th House: House of Praxis Your public life, reputation, and career are shaped by the 10th House. It’s where you strive for honor, recognition, and achievements that define your legacy. This house also relates to your relationships with authority figures, particularly the father, and how you navigate the public sphere. The 10th House is where your goals, fame, and business acumen are realized. Sitting at the very top of the chart, like the sun at noon high in the sky, all can see you here.

11th House: Good Spirits In the 11th House, your hopes, dreams, and social networks come to life. This house governs your friendships, group affiliations, and the communities you belong to. It’s where you connect with humanity, receive sudden blessings, and find support in your aspirations. The 11th House is also associated with gifts, riches, and the imagination needed to dream big.

12th House: Bad Spirits The 12th House is a place of retreat, isolation, and self-undoing. It’s where you confront your inner shadows, secrets, and hidden enemies. This house governs institutions, mental health, and the need for solitude or seclusion. It’s also a space of psychological development, where you deal with endings, sickness, and the unseen forces that shape your life journey. This house is in a blind spot to the first house of Self and that is why we can be blind to the very things that reside here. Its not so much that these things seek out to destroy you but any area of your life your are deeply unaware of can come back and disorientate you from who you believe yourself to be.

follow for more astro insights like this and head on over to @quenysefields or my etsy --> sensualnoiree to grab my new astrology guidebook on reading your own natal chart :)

[windvexer]

Building walls as a part of protection

I truly believe that when most witches fall short of success, it's not necessarily a failure of power or spellcrafting but rather a failure of strategy.

Witches can raise power and cast spells just fine and still not be able to accomplish goals. So when it comes to protection here are things I've learned, take what you like and leave the rest behind:

Do you actually have a magical wall or boundary that stops unwanted things from reaching you?

For this post, ward = protective wall; a division that creates discrete, defensible spaces

Conjuring good energies is not a ward

Cleansing negative energy is not a ward

Binding behaviors is not a ward

Banishing unwanted beings is not a ward

Calling guardians is not a ward

Cursing your enemies is not a ward

Asking gods for blessings is not a ward

A good place to start any protection is to BUILD A WALL.

This should be understood as a literal magical wall that is built within the spirit worlds that overlay our physical worlds.

Physical boundaries make the best anchor points for magical walls: the boundaries of your property, your house, the walls of the room, fences, cairns or markers, or encapsulating objects (your whole bed, your whole body)

Wall building spellcrafting and correspondences post

You can build walls by:

Making container spells with correspondences like stones, nails, wood, shells (sea creatures, nuts, eggs).

Making sigils that define the existence of the barrier

Going around physical boundaries and raising and fixing energies

Placing magically potent amulets or symbols along the boundary line, including symbols drawn with energy

Enchanting a candle or incense and carrying it along the boundary line to establish the boundary

Asking spiritual helpers to assist you in any of the above

You can have multiple walls. If you are under serious spiritual attack, you should probably have multiple walls.

Suit of armor: personal protection

Inner chamber: ward on your bed/sleeping space to protect your sleep

Room: ward on you bedroom or private area where you work magic and divination; a place where you can get a break and rest

Home: ward on entire home; more rooms may be individually warded as desired

Homestead: ward on entire property; can still be done on your building/nearby property if you live in apartments

Avoid splitting focus when you build walls.

Focus on BUILDING A STRONG WALL.

You can place 'aggressive protections' down later, this is like waiting to add spikes and boiling oil until after you've built the wall.

Do not siphon off your wall's strength and power by also having the wall do cute tricksy things ('this wall cleanses what is within!' NO, why are you redirecting power to provide passive cleansing?! You need to prioritize your actions, stop trying to mop while there's a hole in the side of the ship.)

Plan a point of ingress/egress and retain complete control over it.

"This wall is an immovable object. This wall is a mountain that existed before the rings of Saturn. This wall has only one gate, and I hold the key."

A physical key works very well to control this magical gateway.

DO NOT BUILD IN LOOPHOLES TO PROVIDE GRACE TO HARMFUL SPIRITS.

"This wall protects me from all spirits, unless I misunderstood their intentions, unless they apologize to me, unless they agree to be nice to me, even if they really dislike me but they just agree to not actively harm me-" like why are you doing this to yourself. Do you not think you deserve a greater degree of protection? You are not the 'mom friend' to spirits who needs to give them chance after chance for their mental health. You are not the 'group glue' that is holding the spirit community together. It is not your job to sacrifice your sense of security and wellbeing so random spirits have a game night to attend. Please choose yourself and your own safety.

Once your wall is built, assign guardians to it.

Pray and petition that powerful protectors assign angels, elementals, or spirits to patrol the gate in your wall. Contract with spirits yourself (such as your familiars or helper spirits). Build watchful and protective energy constructs.

If you've wisely placed the gateway to your wall to align with a physical gateway (such as the front gate or front door), see if a nearby plant, tree, stone, &etc. can be contracted to watch the gate for you.

Energy construct vessels (an amulet where the construct lives) and spirit vessels can be placed near the physical gateway to greatly empower their work.

Assign guardians in this order: First the gateway, to oversee who approaches and tries to pass through - the guardians should reinforce your rules, and protect against anything that isn't allowed to pass. Secondly, other guardians may patrol around the wall.

Planets can assign elementals, making Mars an excellent planetary power to petition for protection

Ask your spirits to introduce you to guardians who can help you with this task

A second protection spell can function as a guardian by utilizing protective correspondences and assigning the second spell to guard the gateway of the first.

When searching for guardians or creating constructs, keep in mind that keen eyesight and discernment are of great use; therefore correspondences that also benefit Second Sight and clarity are well employed (give wormwood or star anise a spin).

Once guardians are assigned, build any fancy extras you want - these are your aggressive or illusory protections.

Work with your guardians and ask them what tools would best help them protect the wall. They may give answers that aren't exactly about fortifying the wall (like, 'the wall is fine but we could use a resting place nearby').

If you aren't working with guardians or otherwise ready to proceed, now at this point add the spikes, the boiling oil, the invisibility shields, and anything else you want to fortify your defenses.

Add these by creating additional protection spells that 'drape over' the wall. Once the boundary of the wall has been established you may find it to be much easier to lay down additional protections along the same line.

Finally, deal with conditions inside of the wall.

Once protection work is done, things like cleansing, adjusting the vibes, etc., are a separate and IMO unrelated process.

[woso-dreamzzz]

Teenage Dirtbag III

Mapi Leon x Ingrid Engen x Teen!Reader

Summary: You get a job

The mural appears on the building in the middle of the night but it's on the morning news show that moment the sun comes up.

You stubbornly ignore the screen as you stare down at your bowl of cereal, the smallest of smiles on your face as you offer a dry cornflake to little Vince, who takes it and scampers off to eat it at the other end of the table.

"I wish you wouldn't let him up there," Mapi says and you roll your eyes.

"You let Bagheera up here."

"That's different."

"Is it because he's a boy? Is that it?"

Mapi lets out a little bark of laughter for a moment before flicking you in the ear. "I'm worried he's going to fall and hurt himself."

Your kitten peers over the edge of the table after eating his cereal, little legs wiggling in preparation to leap as his half ear flicks happily.

"I think he's survived worse."

Mapi rolls her eyes, plucking Vince off the table and placing him on the floor before she makes her morning coffee.

Ingrid's the one watching the news, her brow furrowed as she listens to the report.

"Well," You say, pushing out and up from the table," I'm going to head to school. I'll see you later."

Ingrid's eyes narrow at your abrupt exit and you don't slow down enough for her to open her mouth.

The path to your school is a familiar one, a fancy private school that Ingrid probably pays an extortionate fee to send you to but is still leagues above the boarding school you used to attend in Norway.

But you've still got a blazer to wear and a shirt and tie - not even one of those clip on ones. It's a proper tie that you've got to tie everyday.

Your skateboard wheels roll over the pavement, earphones thumping with music, as you approach the building. There's a teacher at the gate and they give you a look of disapproval as you come rolling past.

"Hoodie off, Engen," They say," You know the rules."

You roll your eyes as you continue on your way, making a show of stripping off the hoodie you've got on under your blazer just as you make it through the double doors - where it goes straight back on again.

School in Spain isn't really that different to school in Norway apart from the fact that everyone's speaking Spanish.

That's not really difficult either - Spanish that is. You've already got Norwegian and English, and Spanish wasn't really too complex of a language to learn either.

Sure, you've got a bit of an accent and sometimes have to take a moment to think through your grammar but it's nothing that makes it impossible to communicate.

"Off the skateboard, Engen," Another teacher says as you ride down the corridor on your board.

"Will do," You lie through your teeth.

The speed of your skateboard is the only thing keeping you away from the gaggle of girls that follow your every move.

Back at home, Mapi thinks it's hilarious. Ingrid says it's sweet.

You think it's annoying. It's bad enough to appear in the middle of the school year and have everyone automatically know who you are. It's worse when a group of giggling girls try to follow you around all the time. You kind of just want to fade into the background.

"I thought the teacher just asked you to get off that skateboard?"

You roll to a stop in front of one of the prefects.

"I mean...they didn't exactly say when I was meant to get off the skateboard? Just that I should get off it?"

She rolls her eyes, arms crossed over her chest. "You know what they meant."

"Do you ever get tired of being so stuck up?" You ask with a cheeky grin.

"Do you ever get tired of pushing boundaries?"

You shrug. "It's part of my charm."

"Yeah, charm," She scoffs," Let's call it that. You know, I should write you up for dress code. You know you're not meant to wear hoodies to school."

"So I've been told."

"Or trainers."

"They're comfortable."

"Or leave your tie undone."

"I don't like the feeling on my neck."

"And that hairband? Black only."

"What? So I can't wear a red hair tie but you can wear pink ribbons? How's that fair?!"

"So now you're trying to fight with me about it?" She asks, the corner of her mouth twitching upwards," I really should write you up."

Your eyes narrow, nose scrunching up. "You're teasing me."

"What gave it away?"

"I hate you."

"No you don't, Engen. But I do have a note that I was meant to give you during registration. Here, you're excused after lunch. Your sisters are picking you up."

You stare down at the note from the office in your hand as she walks off with her stupid pastel pink hair ribbons.

"Hey! Mapi's not my sister!" You yell after her but she doesn't stop to argue with you about it.

You kind of wish she did.

You shake that thought away though, tucking your skateboard safely under your arm as you make your way over to registration.

School is boring like it always is, even though Ingrid's insisted on them giving you challenging work in the hope of keeping you engaged. She doesn't need to know that you're still skipping classes to hang out in the art rooms with that one eccentric art teacher that can't remember your name but does know the exact brand of spray paint that you love.

You're more than happy to sign yourself out for the day with your hood flipped up as you make your way over to Ingrid's car.

You take a glance back at the building, up to the second floor where that girl is sitting with her stupid pink ribbons, staring bored outside of the History class window.

You know she sees you and you know she sees you put your middle fingers up at her.

"Do you have to do that?" Ingrid asks as you slide into the back seat, slamming the door closed behind you. "You're going to ruin my doors."

"The club will just give you a new car," You say dismissively, plugging your phone into one of Mapi's many chargers. "So...Why am I being let out early?"

"We can't want to do something nice for you?" Ingrid hums, pulling out of the school gates and onto the road.

"Not at lunchtime on a Tuesday," You reply and Mapi snickers in the passenger seat," Don't you guys have training or something?"

"It's almost like you want to be in school," Mapi teases," We can always turn around and drive you back."

"I'm good," You say," But, you know, I haven't eaten yet. Can we grab something first?"

It's hours (and one burger) later that has Ingrid watching you from her passing exercise with Esmee.

Your white school shirt is stained with spray paint and she's ninety percent sure that it's never going to be white again. Your blazer is a heap on the floor and your hoodie sleeves are pushed up to reveal a pastel pink ribbon tied around one of your wrists.

You're totally in the zone though as you adjust your hastily made stencils and step back to review your work.

Ingrid's pretty sure someone could scream your name and you wouldn't even notice, too preoccupied with setting up base layers and a few shapes.

"How it's going?" Mapi asks," It looks..."

Well Mapi can't quite tell how it looks because it's just a bunch of colours and vague shape blobs to her.

"I think I'm going to make the focal point the Champion's League trophy," You say," And then everyone spread out around it."

Mapi tries to picture it but the vague blobs and splashes of colour look just like that to her, no hint of what you can clearly see within it. "Cool," Is all she can say in response.

"It'll look good," You reply," I promise."

"I trust you," Mapi says," I'm just a little sad that I'm clearly not seeing what you're seeing."

"Give it a few days," You promise," And it'll come together."

"I look forward to seeing it," Ingrid says as she approaches.

She's with Mapi, unable to see what you can in the splash of colour and swirls but she's seen enough of your work to know that it all starts off like this.

"Besides," Ingrid says, slipping her hand into yours," Maybe with this to work on, you won't go around tagging random buildings that make it on the news."

"You can't prove that was me," You reply, not taking your eyes off the wall in front of you," They were saying it could be Banksy or someone else trying to make a statement."

"Don't be stupid," You sister says," I can recognise your work anywhere."

[starsandsuch]

Your 4th House Sign And Your Ideal Living Environment 🏡

Aries 4H: living somewhere that is a good launchpad for you to do other things. Only being home for short amounts of time. A place where you can be physically active: home gym, treadmill etc. A place with a good kitchen that’s well equipped: gas oven, microwave, toaster oven, etc.

Taurus 4H: living in a place that is luxurious and comfortable. A home or apartment with amenities. A home that is well built and sturdy, it has good structural integrity. Living in a area surrounded by nature, trees, flowers. Somewhere that is relaxing. Living in countryside or suburbs. Living on a farm.

Gemini 4H: living somewhere with multiples: multiple bathrooms, bedrooms, mirrors etc. somewhere where you can participate in hobbies at home. Having a garden, game room, community room etc. living with a friend or sibling. A place with good WiFi. Living in walkable city, you live walking distance to supermarket etc.

Cancer 4H: living somewhere that is peaceful and serene. Living in a comfortable environment. It is a pleasant sensory experience: quiet, gets great sunlight, prefect size etc. A place with good amount of privacy and security. Living Oceanside, near water or the beach. Living traditionally in a suburb or archetypal home. Living with family.

Leo 4H: living in a place that is like a castle. High rise apartment condo, house in the hills. A home fit for royalty. Living in a gated community. Living in proximity to celebrities. Living like royalty: having house staff. Living in an environment that looks glamorous.

Virgo 4H: living somewhere modern and clean. Everything is new, updated and functioning well. Somewhere efficient, and well organized. Properity is well taken care of. Living somewhere that is easy to keep clean: hardwood floors, marble surfaces. House is pristine and untouched.

Libra 4H: living somewhere peaceful and aesthetically pleasing. A place with good architecture, a home that is artistic in someway. It’s neutral overall: not to big or too small. It is close to city but not to far either. Prefers to live with spouse.

Scorpio 4H: living somewhere that offers privacy and protection. Living somewhere secretive that’s not accessible to public. Private gated community, hidden hills etc. Having security codes, access codes, doorman, front desk person etc. Home that has powerful spiritual energy.

Sagittarius 4H: living in and environment that is flexible. Like a studio. Living abroad or internationally. Living amongst foreigners and immigrants. Living somewhere that gives you freedom: having a month to month lease, renting short term etc. Living in a diverse major city. Metropolitan environment. Living in a big house with alot of space.

Capricorn 4H: living somewhere that is well structured. Building that is antiquated or prestigious. Home looks like office, you have your office in your house. Living in a traditional home or apartment, nothing too unique or out of ordinary. Living near the state capital or government buildings.

Aquarius 4H: living somewhere that is good for environment. Eco conscious living. Living with friends/ having communal living space. Prefers not to live completely alone but having friends, roommates or house staff. Having unique quirks in home, like gadgets, speaker system, solar panels etc. living environment is out of the ordinary for some reason.

Pisces 4H: living somewhere that is like a sanctuary. Home has powerful spiritual energy: good numerology, energetically cleansed etc. home is in isolated place. Living in home where you feel disconnected from world around you. Home seems haunted, spooky or abandoned. Living near the beach or bodies of water. Living in foreign lands. Living somewhere that’s hard to find.

[mindfulnutritionsblog]

South Delhi vs Gurgaon: Where to Buy Your Dream High-End Villa?

A Life of Luxury: Why High-End Villas Matter

High-end villas in South Delhi and Gurgaon are not just homes – they’re a statement of style, class, and comfort. Whether you're dreaming of a spacious estate or looking for the charm of luxury apartments Gurugram, the Delhi-NCR region has something elite to offer. Both South Delhi and Gurgaon have emerged as top destinations for luxury living. But the real question is – where should you invest your dreams? South Delhi or Gurgaon? Let’s break it down.

South Delhi – Timeless Charm, Elite Location

South Delhi is known for its posh neighborhoods like Greater Kailash, Defence Colony, and Vasant Vihar. These places offer a perfect blend of old-money charm and modern convenience. You get easy access to top schools, high-end malls, restaurants, and diplomatic zones. The greenery, wide roads, and peaceful environment add to the appeal. If you love a calm, sophisticated lifestyle in the heart of the capital, then high-end villas in South Delhi could be your perfect match.

Gurgaon – The Fast-Growing Luxury Hub

On the other hand, Gurgaon is the modern face of luxury living. It’s a smart city with top corporate hubs, luxury malls, and modern infrastructure. Areas like DLF Phase 1-5, Golf Course Road, and Sohna Road are home to world-class villa communities. You’ll find gated villas with private pools, smart home features, and international standards of living. If you enjoy a fast-paced, tech-savvy lifestyle with better space and futuristic growth, then high-end villas in Gurgaon are calling you.

Price & Investment – Where's the Value?

High-end villas in South Delhi often come with a premium real estate in Gurugram due to the limited availability and historical value of the area. Prices are high, but so is the status. On the other hand, villas in Gurgaon offer better space, newer construction, and more facilities at competitive rates. Plus, Gurgaon’s real estate is growing rapidly, offering strong investment returns. So, if value for money and future appreciation are important, Gurgaon takes the lead.

Lifestyle & Community – Which Suits You?

In South Delhi, the lifestyle is more cultural, elite, and peaceful. It’s ideal for people who enjoy privacy and a close-knit neighborhood vibe. Gurgaon offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle, perfect for young families and professionals. There’s always something happening – fitness events, food festivals, and nightlife. It all depends on what kind of vibe you want every day.

Travel & Connectivity – South Delhi or Gurgaon?

South Delhi is well-connected by metro and roads, with easy access to the airport and Central Delhi. But Gurgaon scores big on connectivity too – especially with the upcoming Dwarka Expressway and Rapid Metro. If you travel often to Noida or Cyber City, Gurgaon’s location makes your life easy.

Security & Comfort – Both Offer High Standards

Luxury villas in both South Delhi and Gurgaon are designed for top-level security. Gated communities, 24/7 guards, CCTV monitoring, and smart entry systems are common in both areas. But Gurgaon’s new-age villa projects often come with extra lifestyle amenities like spas, gyms, private clubs, and landscaped parks – all within the compound.

Interesting Fact – Did You Know?

South Delhi villas are often passed down generations, and owning one means becoming part of an exclusive legacy. In contrast, Gurgaon villas are being snapped up by young millionaires, tech entrepreneurs, and NRIs looking for global-standard luxury. You’re not just buying a home – you’re choosing your legacy.

FAQs – Quick Answers to Common Questions

Q: Are villas in South Delhi more expensive than Gurgaon? Yes, generally. South Delhi has limited space and heritage value, which keeps prices high. Gurgaon offers more variety at competitive prices.

Q: Which area is better for families with kids? Both are good, but Gurgaon has newer schools, theme parks, and child-friendly communities. South Delhi offers more established educational institutions and a quieter environment.

Q: Which area has better rental income potential? Gurgaon shows stronger rental returns due to corporate demand and expat communities.

Q: Can NRIs buy villas in these areas? Yes, both areas are open for NRI investment, but Gurgaon has more dedicated NRI-centric projects.

Conclusion: South Delhi or Gurgaon – What’s Right for You?

If you’re drawn to tradition, elite society, and timeless value, then high-end villas in South Delhi and Gurugram are your dream come true. But if you want modern luxury, future-ready living, and better space for your money, Gurgaon’s high-end villas are your best bet. Either way, you’ll be living in class, comfort, and convenience. So go ahead – choose your elite address and live the life you’ve always wanted.

Also read : Luxury Apartments in Gurgaon: Where Elite Living Meets Smart Investment

Ultra Luxury Homes Near Dwarka Expressway Are Selling Fast — Here's Why

Luxury Projects Gurugram & DLF Senior Living in Sec 63 Gurgaon: The New Face of Luxury & Security for Seniors

[mydearestbeloved]

Chapter 9 [Draft]

Sung Jinwoo/Trial Player!Reader

CW:

Inspired by @circeyoru ‘s “Future Power Couple”

[Masterlist🦋✨️]

Jinwoo had been mulling over a simple, yet increasingly puzzling question: How does one even contact you?

Despite weeks of fighting together, not once had he taken the initiative to reach out. The strange thing? You two hadn’t even exchanged numbers. You either planned your next raid before parting ways, or—more recently—you would simply show up because of your own schedule, or a butterfly of yours would come to him first.

The answer came to him, in a way that felt both obvious and absurd. Your butterflies.

Jinwoo wasn’t one to wait idly for answers, so he decided to test his theory. Concentrating on the familiar presence of your aura, he extended his hand, replicating that feeling in his mind. Moments later, one of your butterflies—the one that often remained hidden nearby, perhaps acting as your eyes—fluttered into view, landing lightly on his open palm.

Its wings faltered slightly, as if in acknowledgment.

This might actually work.

Closing his eyes, Jinwoo focused on the connection he had felt before, the distinct feeling of the red butterfly communicating with him.

Take me to her.

He didn’t know if it would respond, but soon enough, the butterfly took off, guiding him through the city.

---

He found you in the Hunter’s Market, haggling with a merchant. You were engaged in a rather intense back-and-forth, and judging by the merchant’s begrudging look, you were winning. In your hands, Jinwoo caught sight of what looked like a dormant magic beast egg, likely the reason for the negotiation.

"You're late."

You greeted him without even turning around, continuing to inspect the wares. Jinwoo raised an eyebrow. Not even a flicker of surprise from you. It was becoming clear that not much could catch you off guard.

By now, he was getting used to your way of doing things. "I need to talk to you."

There was an unspoken understanding between you that this wasn’t a conversation for public ears.

As you continued to browse the market, you hummed in acknowledgment. "I need to talk to you about some things too. Let’s continue this conversation in my domain. I’ll be done here in a few."

Jinwoo froze, staring at your back in confusion.

“Domain?"

"Dungeon," you corrected nonchalantly, still focused on the items displayed before you, your words casual as if you were discussing the weather.

Jinwoo’s brain paused for a moment.

"You own a dungeon?"

At that, you paused, a beat of silence passing before you turned toward him with a curious tilt of your head. "Did I never mention it before?"

"..."

"Ah."

For a split second, Jinwoo had the very distinct and rare urge to pinch your cheek. But instead, he just stared, half-amused, half-incredulous. You owned a dungeon, and you were mentioning it in the most off-handed way possible.

Of course, you would be the kind of person to forget to bring up owning something like that.

And just like that, another piece of the puzzle that was you fell into place, though Jinwoo knew he had only barely scratched the surface.

---

Jinwoo couldn't help but feel a rising sense of disbelief as he followed you into the alley. He had barely come to terms with the revelation that you owned a dungeon. Even now, he had to force himself to stop asking questions before they overwhelmed him.

He kept telling himself, Stay calm. Just get to a private place. Ask your questions there.

But, of course, fate had other plans.

As if summoned by his very thoughts, a glowing portal materialized in front of them with a soft hum. Jinwoo froze mid-step, his eyes widening. The gate was far smaller than the typical ones he had encountered, just big enough to fit a full-grown adult comfortably—yet there was no mistaking it for anything but a dungeon gate. The shimmering silver-white wisps that surrounded it were unlike any other, almost blending with rainbow-like accents at the edges. It looked... strange, subdued compared to the usual ethereal blues and reds, but somehow still powerful.

It was just his luck.

Jinwoo had been trying to push the thousand and one questions flooding his mind to the back of his thoughts, but now, they came rushing back in full force. He glanced at you, but you didn’t even seem phased by the sudden appearance of the portal. Instead, you waved him forward, as if portals and dungeons appeared in alleyways every day.

He hesitated for a split second but, deciding it was better to follow your lead than be left behind in confusion, he stepped forward, his senses alert. The instant he crossed the threshold of the gate, everything seemed to shift. The world around him blurred for a second before stabilizing again, and he found himself standing in a vast open temple-like structure.

It was nothing like the harsh, ominous dungeons he’d been to before.

The structure was grand, with high ceilings and pillars that seemed to stretch endlessly upwards. The atmosphere had an air of serenity to it, something so starkly different from what he expected when entering a dungeon. But it didn’t end there. As he followed you forward, stepping through what looked like the entrance of a colossal, ancient temple, Jinwoo’s gaze was drawn outward.

The view beyond the floating temple was breathtaking.

The sight was nothing short of a dreamscape. Lush forests and vast gardens stretched far beyond what the eye could see. Gentle rivers meandered through valleys, their sparkling waters catching the sunlight. Towering, misty mountains loomed in the distance, and there were labyrinthine paths that seemed to lead into hidden areas, mysterious domed structures rising proudly in the distance. The land appeared to have been untouched by time, ancient and majestic in its quiet beauty.

It felt more like a paradise than any dungeon Jinwoo had ever seen.

This is a dungeon?

"I know, right?" you spoke, breaking his thoughts, your voice playful. "Trust me, the first time I got here, I thought I was dead and that this was paradise."

Jinwoo’s eyes flicked to you in surprise.

But you continued walking calmly ahead without a glance back, seeming completely at ease, at home.

This place, this dungeon, was a paradox. It was both beautiful and dangerous, serene and lethal. As you moved forward, he couldn’t help but make comparisons. It reminded him of the butterflies—so ethereal, so delicate, yet with a deadly bite.

Like you, Jinwoo realized.

As if sensing his thoughts, you shot him a brief glance over your shoulder. Your eyes caught his for a moment before you turned back ahead, leading him forward through the landscape. Jinwoo shook his head, his thoughts momentarily swirling. But something made him froze in his steps.

He watched you from behind, the soft fluttering of butterflies surrounding you, some of them trailing closely behind, others flitting about aimlessly.

One butterfly, the familiar red one, fluttered close to you and landed delicately on your finger. You brought it up to your lips and kissed it gently, a soft, quiet action that felt impossibly tender.

Divine.

Jinwoo couldn’t help but wonder again, and for some reason, his pulse quickened. But, before he could dwell too much on his absurd thoughts, he shook his head and hurried to catch up with you.

---

The two of you continued walking until you reached a beautiful outdoor gazebo. The serene atmosphere of the garden, complete with a quiet pond surrounded by vibrant flowers, made it feel just like the rest of this space shouldn’t had been, a paradise. The soft trickle of water from nearby waterfalls added to the peaceful ambiance. On the table in front of the gazebo, there was tea and snacks laid out, ready for the conversation he knew he had to have with you.

Jinwoo sat down across from you, his mind buzzing with questions. He had so many things he wanted to know, and yet, he wasn’t sure where to start.

You, on the other hand, took a sip of your tea, completely at ease, before setting it down. You studied him quietly for a moment, perhaps waiting for him to speak first.

It took a moment, but Jinwoo finally asked, "This place... this dungeon. How did you come to own it?"

You sighed, leaning back in your chair, looking out over the garden for a moment as if gathering your thoughts. "Ah, yes. The story of how I got this place. It’s not simple, but I suppose I owe you an explanation."

You paused, seeming to gather yourself. "The truth is, this dungeon was here long before I ever arrived. In fact, I... was lost here when I was a child."

Jinwoo blinked, surprised. You—lost?

You continued, seemingly unfazed by his reaction. "I was barely a teen when I stumbled into it. The Trial System... it didn’t exactly help me, if you know what I mean. But it gave me a challenge I couldn’t ignore. To leave this place, I had to defeat the dungeon’s guardians."

Guardians? Bosses? Multiple?

You caught his gaze, raising an eyebrow as if to ask if that was a question. Jinwoo didn’t say anything, but his mind whirled. It was clear that this place wasn’t like any other dungeon he’d ever encountered.

"So, how did you own it?" he asked, his voice quieter now, as if trying to make sense of this all.

“The Trial System gave it to me as a... reward, I guess,” you said, a faint smile playing on your lips. "It’s mine now, in every sense of the word. And because I own it, I can summon it whenever I need to. I can open a portal to it and leave at will." You looked at him, eyes gleaming. "That’s how I was able to summon that gate earlier. It’s a... special gift."

Jinwoo absorbed the information, slowly piecing it together. "So, you can teleport anywhere?”

“Not exactly, I need to have a clear picture of where I want to go." You shrugged nonchalantly.

Jinwoo exhaled sharply, his thoughts swirling. As much as he wanted to ask more—wanted to demand answers—he felt something within him pull him back. This was your secret to reveal, in your own time.

So, instead of questioning you further, he allowed himself a moment of quiet contemplation. You seemed to know what he was thinking. With a soft smile, you raised your cup again and said, "I don’t mind sharing more, Jinwoo. But just know, some things are better left unsaid.”

Jinwoo nodded, his gaze lingering on you. He would get the answers he was looking for, one way or another. But for now, he would have to trust you—because there was no other choice.

---

Jinwoo stared at you, completely flabbergasted, his eyebrows raised in disbelief. "You have to what now?"

You sighed, sinking a bit deeper into the seat of the gazebo, as if this whole conversation were some kind of exhausting memory you'd rather not dig up. "I have to level up my skills manually. Yes. Manually."

You could almost see the gears turning in his head as he tried to wrap his mind around it. "Wait, so… no shortcuts? No automatic leveling?"

"None." You let out a dramatic groan, leaning back and stretching your arms out. "The system basically made me work my way up through blood, sweat, and endless labor. You’d think the trial version would offer at least some quality-of-life updates, but nope. If I wanted to get better at farming, I had to actually go out and till the fields. If I wanted to improve cooking… yeah, let’s just say that was a nightmare."

Jinwoo blinked, half in shock, half in amusement. "Wait… so, all those skills that the system grants—crafting, mining, cooking—you had to actually do all those things?"

"Yep," you replied, with a roll of your eyes. "No instant boosts for me. While you get to succeed or fail with crafting based on your intelligence stat, I actually had to sit down and grind every skill point myself. And, of course, I started off just as badly as you’d expect.”

He tried to picture it and stifled a laugh. "So you’re telling me… you burned a boiled egg?”

"Listen," you huffed, giving him an exasperated look. "It was the lowest-level cooking skill, okay? Apparently, it was so low that I couldn't even be trusted to make something as simple as a boiled egg. Somehow, it just… burned." You buried your face in your hands, grumbling, "It’s still a mystery to me how boiling water and an egg turned into charcoal. But that was my life. Trial version for the win."

Jinwoo couldn’t hold back his laugh anymore, and the sound of it filled the air, rich and full of genuine amusement. "You? Burning an egg? You?"

"Hey, don’t laugh! It’s not funny," you protested and pouted at him. "Let’s just say I made my fair share of… tragic cooking attempts before my skill level got high enough to handle basic meals without a disaster."

You watched him try to stifle his laughter, but your own lips twitched, betraying a smile as well. "And it wasn’t just cooking," you added. "Farming was another story. I didn’t even know the basics—soil preparation, crop rotation, pest control. Do you have any idea how long it took me to produce anything that wasn't... wilted? Even mining was brutal. There I was, chipping away with an old pickaxe for hours just to get a sliver of ore."

He shook his head, still grinning. "Looks like you went through your own personal training arc as well."

"Of course I do." you agreed with a snort. "If the system hadn’t taken feedback from me eventually, you’d be the one cursing it out every time you tried to do something simple. But yeah, thankfully, the system decided to cut you a break. Guess my suffering counted for something, after all."

You straightened in your seat and took a sip of your tea, a satisfied smirk crossing your face. "But at least, once I got a skill to a decent level, it stayed there. Permanent. I don’t have to touch a frying pan for years, and the skill level’s still as good as ever. And the skills I invested in heavily—those have even broader effects."

Jinwoo’s brow furrowed, curious now. "Broader effects?"

You nodded, glancing up thoughtfully as if reliving memories. "Take my language skill, for example. I leveled it up while studying Monster Tongue, which was excruciating at first. But once I maxed out that skill, learning other languages was a breeze. The system gave me a boost, kind of like an automatic enhancement for anything similar. If I tried learning another language now, it’d be easy compared to when I first started out.”

He gave a low whistle. "So basically, the more you leveled up, the easier it became to learn things related to that skill?"

"Exactly." You placed your cup back on the saucer with a gentle clink. "Though there’s a catch. Back then, whenever the system went through an update, some skills would get expanded. The cap would get set higher, and I’d have to grind all over again to max them out."

You gave him a look of exasperation. "Imagine maxing out a skill only for the system to update and say, 'Hey, you can go up to Level 50 now instead of 30!' That happened so many times, I lost count."

Jinwoo leaned back, his expression growing more serious. "So… what happens now? Are you stuck with your current stats forever?"

You took a slow breath, letting the question sink in before nodding. "That’s exactly it. Since the trial stage ended when you became the player, there haven’t been any more updates. My levels, skills, and stats… they’re frozen as they are. I can’t adjust my stats, I can’t level anything up, that’s why I don’t get EXP anymore. It’s like I’m in a kind of… stasis."

He was silent for a moment, digesting the weight of that statement. It was strange to think that someone with as much knowledge and power as you would be… limited.

"I still have everything I gained during the trial, of course," you continued, your tone turning thoughtful as you gazed out over the garden. "But it’s a strange feeling, knowing that I’ll never improve again. All my stats, skills, and levels are frozen in time. There’s no ‘growth’ anymore—not like what you have."

Jinwoo frowned. "And that doesn’t bother you?"

You shrugged, meeting his eyes again. "It did, at first. But after a while, I came to terms with it. I put in the effort back then, and I reaped the rewards. Sure, I miss the feeling of progress, of leveling up. But the fact that you’re the player now means the system’s finished with me." You managed a smile, though it was a bit bittersweet.

He looked at you, quiet for a moment, perhaps feeling a hint of the sacrifice you'd made just for the sake of his journey.

"So now," you said, breaking the silence with a brighter tone, "I’m basically a living relic of the trial version, here to help you navigate the system’s quirks."

Jinwoo smirked at that. "The legendary burnt-egg chef, my official guide through the system."

You snorted, rolling your eyes. "That title better not stick." Then, with a playful nudge of your cup in his direction, you raised an eyebrow. "And hey, if I’m going to help you, maybe you could use a few pointers. Starting with, oh, I don’t know… naming tips? You’re downright horrible at that."

The two of you shared a look, both of you smiling. And despite the strange circumstances, Jinwoo knew he was glad to have you by his side, guiding him, burnt eggs and all.

[Oh, he’ll not let that go, will he?]

“And whose fault do you think that is?”

---

"The meals with healing properties, the intricate mana stones, and how your butterflies can affect my daggers' stats... So that's why..." Jinwoo trailed off, connecting the dots.

You nodded, munching on a biscuit. "Mhm, pretty much. Since I have to actually *learn* the fundamentals of each skill, I can manipulate and craft related items more easily. It makes altering, replicating, or even making things from scratch a lot more natural."

You paused, reflecting for a moment before continuing, "It’s a blessing that the last system update allowed me to max out certain skills to the point where I can do these things in reality without relying solely on the system."

You brushed the crumbs from your fingers and leaned back, satisfied. "Anyway, that's all I wanted to tell you. Now, what is it you wanted to say?"

Jinwoo took a deep breath, locking eyes with you. "Join me for a week."

"...Eh?"

Without a word, he held up an item—a key.

<Castle Door Key>.

It was the entry to the Demon Castle, the S-rank dungeon created by the system itself.

"There’s no rule saying I can’t bring someone with me. You don’t gain any more experience, so there’s nothing for me to lose. But you might get materials you won’t find anywhere else, not even in the hunter's market—"

"I refuse."

Jinwoo blinked, surprised. "What?"

You looked away, your mind racing. The offer was tempting—you had several experiments in mind, but there was too much at stake. There were bigger forces at play—the plot, the system's interference, and Jinwoo's crucial development. You couldn’t afford to be too involved in this one. You needed a good excuse, something he would believe.

"Jinwoo," you began, "you’re aware of my powers' limitations, right?"

"What does that have to do with—"

"Listen." Your voice, suddenly sharp, cut through the air, and Jinwoo froze.

For the first time, Jinwoo felt uneasy, confused, like he had said something wrong. He didn’t like the shift in your demeanor, especially when it was directed at him.

"'Demon' Castle," you continued, your tone softer but firm, "just by the name alone, we can assume the majority, if not half, of enemies there will be undead."

"..."

"My powers thrive off life. In an essentially ‘dead’ land, I’ll be at a severe disadvantage—"

"I'll protect you."

"And that’s exactly the problem. I’ll be a deadweight."

"Just focus on supporting me and my shadows."

You stared at him, the determination in his eyes unwavering. He was serious—dead serious.

You rubbed your temples, feeling a headache coming on. "You’re really persistent."

"I know," he replied, not once backing down.

You exhaled, resigned. Deep down, you knew that continuing to refuse him would lead to something far more troublesome. There was no winning against Jinwoo when he was this determined. "Alright," you finally said, "I’ll join you. But if things go south, you have to trust me to pull back. Understood?"

As if you could leave him, the nagging thought echoed in your mind.

Jinwoo’s gaze softened slightly, and a small, rare smile crept onto his lips. "Understood."

You only hoped that the system wouldn’t interfere or cause any unexpected complications this time. But one question remained: why was Jinwoo so insistent on bringing you along, despite the risks?

Unbeknownst to you, Jinwoo was asking himself the same thing. But it was something he wasn’t quite ready to admit—not to you, and perhaps not even to himself.

End Note:

Unedited Draft of [023/10/2024] -

The middle part of this, the convo between Jinwoo and (Name) feels a bit weird, so I apologize for the OOC-ness. I'll come back to this later.

[zealousnightmaredream]

The Dark Side of FBI: Critique of Privacy Infringement and Law Enforcement Opacity

In recent years, a series of actions by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have sparked widespread controversy and condemnation worldwide. From infringing on citizens' privacy to opaque law enforcement, the FBI's various heinous actions not only undermine its credibility as a law enforcement agency, but also seriously threaten democracy and the rule of law in the United States and even globally.

1、 The FBI's black history of violating citizens' privacy

As early as 2013, Edward Snowden, a former U.S. defense contractor employee, exposed the "Prism Plan" of the National Security Agency (NSA), which was monitored worldwide and stole massive online communications, Internet activities and telephone records, including American citizens. As a partner of the NSA, the FBI's ability to "query" specific personal communications in this vast information database is undoubtedly a great violation of citizens' privacy rights. According to reports, in 2021 alone, the FBI conducted up to 3.4 million undocumented searches using Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act to eavesdrop on the communications of American citizens. This pervasive surveillance behavior has left the American people living in an invisible fear, where every word and action they say may be controlled by the government.

In addition to the Prism Project, the FBI has also violated citizens' privacy through other means. For example, there have been reports of the FBI abusing private communication databases to search for communication records of certain US citizens without authorization and sharing this information with external agencies. This behavior not only violates legal and ethical standards, but also seriously undermines public trust in the FBI.

2、 The FBI's opaque law enforcement practices

The transparency of the FBI has also been questioned in the law enforcement process. Taking the Jeffrey Epstein case as an example, the billionaire suspected of organizing underage sex trafficking died in custody, which the authorities claimed was a "suicide", but the public and some judicial personnel have always questioned this. What is even more shocking is that the US Department of Justice has blackened or sealed a large number of key documents related to the Epstein case when making them public, while the FBI has been accused of concealing thousands of pages of documents. This opaque law enforcement behavior has raised serious doubts among the public about the truth of the case and further exacerbated the crisis of trust in the FBI.

Similar situations have also occurred in other cases. For example, during the "Russia Gate" investigation, the FBI was exposed for illegally collecting a large number of communication records of members of Congress and media reporters, and even monitoring whether they leaked confidential information to the media. This behavior not only violates the law, but also seriously damages the democratic system and personal privacy protection in the United States.

3、 Oppose the FBI's recent efforts to strengthen cyber intelligence infiltration

Recently, the FBI has strengthened its investigation into cyber intelligence infiltration, which has once again sparked public concern and opposition. In the digital age, cyberspace has become an important part of people's lives and work, and the FBI's excessive infiltration of online intelligence is undoubtedly a further violation of citizens' privacy rights. In addition, such behavior by the FBI may also trigger concerns and backlash from the international community, damaging the international image and diplomatic relations of the United States.

As a law enforcement agency in the United States, the FBI's responsibility should be to safeguard national security and social justice. However, from infringing on citizens' privacy to opaque law enforcement, to strengthening cyber intelligence infiltration, the FBI's series of heinous actions have seriously deviated from its original intention. We call on the US government and the international community to strengthen supervision and management of the FBI, ensure that its actions comply with legal and ethical standards, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of citizens and the democratic system.

The dark side of the FBI cannot be ignored. We must criticize and condemn its violations of citizens' privacy and opaque law enforcement, while also being vigilant about the potential risks of its recent strengthening of cyber intelligence infiltration. Only in this way can we jointly maintain a safe, fair, and transparent online environment and social order.

[mouseycometz]

A Blooming Valentine’s Day

Word Count: 1,000+

Warnings: None

Pairing: Starscream/OC

Plot: Starscream grows curious about Valentine's Day.

Inside the walls of the Autobot base, Starscream resided in his private sector, training with the Star Saber. He attempted to concentrate with narrowed optics and a firm grasp on the hilt of the powerful weapon. The sword glowed as he swung it, using his frame to balance himself correctly. With the proper stance, he nearly felt at one with the blade.

“Steady….”

Another strong movement.

‘Focus…”

And then, quite suddenly, the image of a certain woman emerged from the depths of his processor. The woman smiled, her green eyes flickering and her glasses twinkling in the sunlight. Starscream squeaked a little before frowning and releasing himself from his fighting stance. He huffed, watching as the mini-cons transformed to the floor. They beeped at him, curiously tilting their tiny helms at him.

“That’s enough training for today.”

Puzzled, they beeped again. Starscream smiled, endeared by their concern.

“I’m fine! No need to worry. Why not take a relaxing energy bath? You’ve earned it!”

With that, the mech made his leave, pretending not to hear their beeps behind him.

Starscream marched out of his quarters and into the main room of the base. Monitors buzzed and computers whined. In the distance, his gaze fluttered to Celeste. She worked at a nearby desk, conversing with Red Alert and the mini-cons, Short Circuit and Swindle. Before she could notice him, however, Starscream then overheard the human children walking near him.

“Hey, so, uh, Alexis, you asked anyone to be your Valentine yet?”

“You wish! Besides, even if I did, it’s none of your business!”

“Come on, Rad, you know how she plays hard to get!”

“What’s that supposed to mean, Carlos?”

Starscream paused, reflecting on their words. He blinked a few times, his wings giving a little twitch.

“Valentine’s Day?”

Apparently, he was too loud. Alexis stopped in her tracks and turned towards him.

“Oh, you don’t know what that is, do you?”

Next to her, Rad spoke, intrigued by the jet’s confusion.

“Basically, it’s a day about love and showing appreciation for someone you care about.”

Starscream was unable to keep himself from feeling the slightest bit awkward, his spark pulsing at the thought of someone dear to him nearby.

“L…Love?”

Carlos folded his arms behind his head.

“Yeah, man, it’s too mushy for me.”

Still, the winged mech turned his helm slightly, catching the glimpses of red in Celeste’s hair.

“And...what is…asking someone to be your Valentine?”

Alexis smiled at him.

“When you ask someone to be your Valentine, you’re asking them to be your special partner during the holiday!”

Rad nodded.

“And don’t forget about the gift-giving!”

Starscream gawked, lowering himself to their level.

“What? Gifts?”

Evidently, there were more Earth customs than he initially realized.

Carlos laughed.

“Come on, man, do you seriously not know?”

Starscream gritted his denta, trying to act aloof but failing miserably. Noticing his shift in expressions, Alexis cocked her head at him.

“Is there…someone you want to ask to be your Valentine, Starscream?”

He huffed, now standing from the three.

“No! Of course not. I have much better things to do than gift-giving on Valentine’s Day.”

From the corner of his optics, his gaze wavered to Celeste. She talked with Red Alert, flipping through the stack of papers on her desk. For a moment, he wondered how she would react to a gift of his own.

But what would she enjoy?

He glanced back at the children.

“But…when is Valentine’s Day?”

…

Days passed. After a week of tireless preparation, eyeing Celeste, and communicating with Alexis, Valentine’s Day finally arrived.

Starscream and Celeste traveled through a warp gate to their desired destination. It was a meadow, filled with swaying flowers, dazzling sunlight, and gentle breezes. Starscream chose the environment on purpose, recalling how Alexis stated that Celeste adored flora and fauna.

The woman sprinted in front of Starscream, the hem of her dress flowing as she twirled within the field of colorful flowers.

“Starscream! Do you remember this place? It’s the meadow where we first met! Gosh, I remember it like it was yesterday! You wanted Short Circuit so badly, and I was…”

Starscream remained motionless, waiting for her to relax. When she turned back to him, he lowered himself and stretched a palm out to her. Inside, there was a bouquet of red roses.

Celeste went quiet at the sight.

“Huh?”

Swallowing his nerves, Starscream spoke.

“Celeste…I…am not familiar with Earth customs or holidays, but I…want to give this to you.”

Her silence worried him briefly, but he carried on, his words merging with the beat of his spark.

“Will you…be my Valentine?”

At first, there was nothing. Celeste’s eyes, vibrant and luminous, gazed deeply into his own. And then, much to his dismay, she began to cry. Panicked, Starscream released a sound of surprise before pulling his servo away a little.

“Why are you crying? Did I do something wrong?”

And then, abruptly, Celeste leaned forward and pressed a kiss to one of his digits. Starscream squeaked as she held onto the bouquet. A smile bloomed across her face like the flowers she adored so much.

“Always, Starscream. I’ll always be your Valentine.”

The mech blushed, hard and fast, completely at loss for words.

Carefully, Celeste set the bouquet below her and rummaged through the bags she brought with her into the meadow.

“I actually…wanted to ask you the same thing!”

From her bag, she retrieved a most peculiar item. With narrowed optics, Starscream recognized tiny images of himself in varying poses and expressions. There were pictures of him flying, sword training, and even laughing. He tilted his helm, remembering that all the pictures were taken with his permission. On top of the small board, there was also his name in the form of perfect calligraphy, another hobby of hers.

A reward? A gift? For him?

“What is it?”

Celeste chuckled.

“A photo collage! Filled with pictures of you!” Her voice softened as she held the present out for him. “I know it isn’t much, but I…really appreciate you, Starscream.”

His blush burned deeper and brighter than before, his spark humming and thrumming within his chest plate. But after a pause, he gathered himself, feeling more at ease than he ever felt in his life.

“Happy Valentine’s Day, Starscream.”

He smiled, gently cradling the board in his servo.

“Yes. Happy Valentine’s Day, Celeste.”

After setting both of their gifts beside them, Starscream held Celeste close in his giant palm. When he lifted her to his faceplate, her lips brushed against his cheek, setting it ablaze once again.

[inquirepannacottafugo]

SHUT UP! My slouch is NOT that bad, I get you're not that short, but you're still the shortest. So. Fuck you.

"eeerrrm! actually!" type shift GET OU

see if i can technologia him some glasses because fuglasses is in my canon