#procurement auctions

[megayogiposts]

Corruption in UP Forest Department Tenders

Mahesh Pratap Singh <yogimpsingh@gmail.com> Corruption in Procurement Process of UP Forest Department1 message Abhinav Sharma <sharmaabhinav6766@gmail.com>28 January 2025 at 15:23To: Mahesh Pratap Singh <yogimpsingh@gmail.com>Three Divisions of Uttar Pradesh Forest Department namely Hardoi, Firozabad & Amethi have invited Tenders from the Participants for the Supply of Agriculture Grade Gypsum…

[abluescarfonwaston]

Me: Man suits look so good I'd love a good suit

Me: *goes into suit store*

Suit: 700$ please

Me: Nevermind... I am not a suit person.

[eprocurementsoftwaresolutions]

BusinessBid.com: Your Trusted Partner for eProcurement Solutions

In today's fast-paced business world, efficient procurement processes are essential. BusinessBid.com offers cutting-edge eProcurement solutions that streamline and simplify your procurement activities, helping businesses of all sizes save time, reduce costs, and improve transparency.

Our platform provides a user-friendly interface for creating, managing, and tracking procurement activities from start to finish. Whether you're sourcing products, negotiating contracts, or managing suppliers, BusinessBid's eProcurement solutions allow you to automate workflows, enhance compliance, and ensure timely delivery of goods and services.

With advanced features such as real-time bidding, secure transactions, and detailed reporting, BusinessBid.com gives you full control and visibility over your procurement process. Embrace the future of procurement with our innovative solutions designed to optimize your supply chain and drive greater efficiency for your business.

[procurengine3]

Why Choose the Best e-Auction Platform for Your Business Needs?

Why Choose the Best e-Auction Platform for Your Business Needs?

In today’s digital age, traditional auction methods are evolving, and online bidding systems have taken center stage. Businesses, governments, and organizations worldwide are increasingly turning to e-auction platforms to streamline their procurement processes and maximize the value of their assets. If you're considering implementing e-auction software for your business, it's essential to understand the benefits and how it can transform your auction process for the better.

What is an e-Auction Platform?

An e-auction platform is an online system designed to facilitate the buying and selling of products, services, or assets via an electronic bidding process. In an e-auction, buyers place bids for items in real-time, competing with other participants, and the highest bidder wins the auction. These platforms are widely used in procurement, government tenders, asset liquidations, and even in consumer markets.

e-auction software is the backbone of these platforms, providing the infrastructure and tools needed to manage the entire auction process efficiently. From listing items and setting up bidding rules to handling payments and notifying participants, modern e-auction software provides a secure, user-friendly interface for both buyers and sellers.

Key Benefits of Using an e-Auction Platform

Increased Transparency and Fairness

One of the most significant advantages of using an e-auction platform is the transparency it provides. Since the entire process is conducted online, all participants can view the current bid status and track their competition in real-time. This transparency ensures fairness, as every bid is visible to all users, eliminating potential biases or irregularities that may occur in traditional auction settings.

Cost Savings for Buyers and Sellers

For businesses, e-auction platforms often result in significant cost savings. Sellers can reach a larger pool of buyers without needing physical infrastructure or intermediaries, which reduces overhead costs. On the flip side, buyers can often secure products or services at more competitive prices due to the auction format, where prices are driven by real-time demand. For procurement organizations, online auctions help in securing better deals and optimizing supplier selection.

Wider Reach and Access to a Larger Pool of Participants

One of the standout features of an e-auction platform is its ability to connect buyers and sellers globally. Traditional, in-person auctions are often limited by geographical constraints, but an e-auction platform enables sellers to reach bidders from all over the world, increasing competition and the chances of getting a better price for their goods or services.

Speed and Convenience

e-Auctions are faster and more efficient than traditional methods. Bidding can happen in real-time, with auctions typically lasting anywhere from minutes to a few days, depending on the product and the auction setup. The convenience of an e-auction platform is a game-changer, especially for organizations that need to sell goods or procure services quickly.

Enhanced Security and Reduced Fraud

Security is a critical concern in any auction setting, and e-auction platforms address this issue with encrypted transactions, user authentication, and secure payment gateways. Additionally, the digital nature of the auction process helps reduce the potential for fraud. Each participant’s bids are recorded with timestamps, and the entire process is transparent, which makes it easier to trace any discrepancies or fraudulent activity.

Automated Processes and Improved Efficiency

The power of e-auction software lies in automation. From bidder registration and item listings to notifications and payment processing, the platform automates many of the administrative tasks involved in auctions. This not only reduces the time spent on manual interventions but also minimizes the risk of human error, ensuring that the auction runs smoothly and efficiently.

Types of e-Auction Platforms

There are several types of e-auction platforms, each serving different purposes. Here are the most common ones:

Reverse Auctions

Reverse auctions are commonly used in procurement, where suppliers bid to offer the lowest price for goods or services. The buyer, typically an organization or government agency, receives bids from multiple suppliers, and the supplier with the lowest bid wins the contract. This type of auction helps buyers reduce costs and ensure competitive pricing.

Forward Auctions

In forward auctions, sellers list products or services, and buyers place bids. The highest bid at the end of the auction wins the item. This is the most common form of auction for consumer goods, including cars, collectibles, and electronics.

Combinatorial Auctions

Combinatorial auctions allow bidders to place bids on multiple lots or packages of goods. The goal is to find the most efficient and profitable combination for both the buyer and the seller. These types of auctions are commonly used in procurement, where multiple items or services are bundled together.

Hybrid Auctions

Hybrid auctions combine elements of both reverse and forward auctions. This flexible format allows organizations to use the platform for a variety of auction types, catering to different business models and industries.

Key Features to Look for in e-Auction Software

When selecting an e-auction platform, it’s important to consider the features that will meet your business's needs. Here are some essential features to look for in e-auction software:

User-friendly Interface: The platform should be intuitive and easy to navigate for both bidders and administrators. The bidding process should be seamless and require minimal training for participants.

Customizable Auction Rules: Depending on your needs, the e-auction software should allow customization of auction rules, such as bid increments, auction duration, and payment terms.

Mobile Compatibility: The best e-auction platforms offer mobile compatibility, enabling bidders to participate in auctions from their smartphones and tablets.

Real-time Notifications: Participants should receive instant notifications regarding bid updates, auction status, and successful bids.

Integrated Payment Systems: A reliable and secure payment system is essential to ensure smooth financial transactions between buyers and sellers.

Reporting and Analytics: The platform should provide detailed reports and insights on auction performance, allowing businesses to analyze bidding behavior and refine future auctions.

How to Choose the Best e-Auction Platform

Selecting the right e-auction platform depends on your business requirements, goals, and industry needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best e-auction software:

Scalability: Ensure the platform can handle the volume of transactions and bidders you expect, especially if your business is growing.

Security Features: Look for platforms with strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure payment gateways to protect your transactions.

Customer Support: A reliable customer support team is essential for troubleshooting issues and ensuring that your auctions run smoothly.

Customization Options: Choose a platform that can be tailored to your specific auction requirements, whether it’s a reverse auction, forward auction, or hybrid auction.

Conclusion

An e-auction platform offers a wide range of benefits, from increased transparency and efficiency to enhanced security and global reach. Whether you are looking to liquidate assets, procure goods, or optimize your supply chain, investing in e-auction software can significantly streamline your auction process and improve your outcomes. When selecting an e-auction platform, make sure to assess its features, scalability, and security to ensure it meets your business needs.

At ProcurEngine, we offer state-of-the-art e-auction software that can help your business unlock the full potential of online bidding. Our platform is designed to provide maximum value, security, and ease of use, empowering you to conduct seamless and successful auctions every time. Contact us today to learn more about how our e-auction platform can help your business grow!

[sysaler]

Exploring the Benefits of Procurement Auction in the Transportation Industry.

Procurement auctions are increasingly becoming a vital tool in the logistics and transportation industry. These auctions offer a structured, competitive way for companies to source goods and services, often resulting in cost savings, improved service levels, and greater transparency. Let’s delve into the key benefits of procurement auctions and how they can optimize logistics and transportation operations.

1. Cost Reduction and Savings

One of the most significant benefits of procurement auctions is cost reduction. Auctions create a competitive environment where suppliers bid against each other, often driving prices lower than traditional negotiation methods. This is particularly advantageous in logistics and transportation, where margins can be tight.

2. Improved Supplier Quality and Performance

Procurement auctions also enable companies to select suppliers based on more than just price. Auctions can be designed to consider various factors, such as delivery times, service quality, and sustainability practices. This ensures that companies choose suppliers who meet their specific requirements and standards, ultimately leading to better service levels and enhanced supply chain performance.

3. Enhanced Transparency and Fairness

Auctions provide a transparent and fair process for selecting suppliers. This transparency helps build trust between buyers and suppliers, reduces the likelihood of fraud or favoritism, and ensures that procurement decisions are made based on merit and value.

4. Streamlined Procurement Process

Traditional procurement methods can be time-consuming and complex, involving multiple rounds of negotiations and lengthy decision-making processes. In contrast, procurement auctions streamline the entire process. The auction platform automates bidding, evaluation, and selection, allowing companies are quickly identify the best suppliers. This speed and efficiency are crucial in the logistics and transportation industry, where timely decision-making is essential.

5. Flexibility in Auction Design

Companies can tailor procurement auctions to their specific needs. For example, reverse auctions, where suppliers compete to offer the lowest price, are ideal for commodity services like transportation or basic logistics services. On the other hand, complex auctions can incorporate multiple criteria, such as delivery schedules, fuel efficiency, and carbon footprint, to align with broader strategic goals, like sustainability or enhanced service quality.

7. Enhanced Risk Management

Procurement auctions can help mitigate risks associated with supplier selection. By fostering competition, auctions reduce the dependency on a single supplier and encourage diversification. Furthermore, the transparent and competitive nature of auctions allows for better scrutiny of suppliers’ capabilities and performance history, which helps in choosing reliable partners.

Conclusion

Best Procurement auctions software provides a powerful mechanism for optimizing costs, improving supplier quality, and enhancing transparency in logistics and transportation. Despite some challenges, the benefits of adopting procurement auctions far outweigh the drawbacks, making them an essential tool for companies looking to drive efficiency, competitiveness, and innovation in their supply chain operations.

[auctionsoftware]

Benefits of Best Procurement Software in Supply Chain Management. Sysaler

Procurement software significantly enhances supply chain management by streamlining operations, improving efficiency, and providing strategic advantages. Here are the key benefits:

1. Cost Savings: Procurement software helps organizations identify cost-saving opportunities through better supplier negotiations, bulk purchasing, and optimized spending. Automated processes reduce manual errors and administrative costs.

2. Improved Efficiency: Automating procurement processes such as purchase orders, invoicing, and approvals accelerates workflow, reduces processing times, and minimizes human errors. This efficiency allows teams to focus on strategic tasks.

3. Enhanced Supplier Management: The software provides tools for evaluating and managing supplier performance, fostering better relationships, and ensuring compliance with contract terms. It also simplifies supplier communication and collaboration.

4. Data-Driven Decisions: Advanced analytics and reporting capabilities offer insights into procurement activities, spending patterns, and supplier performance. This data-driven approach aids in making informed strategic decisions and forecasting future needs.

5. Risk Management: Procurement software enhances risk management by providing visibility into the supply chain, identifying potential disruptions, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. It helps mitigate risks associated with supplier reliability and market volatility.

6. Scalability and Flexibility: The software supports scalability, accommodating the growing needs of an organization. It offers flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and business requirements.

Best procurement software optimizes supply chain management by reducing costs, improving efficiency, enhancing supplier relationships, enabling data-driven decisions, managing risks, and supporting scalability. These benefits collectively contribute to a more resilient and competitive supply chain.

Visit our website: https://www.sysaler.io/ for more details.

Contact Us- 099716 79441

[procurement-insights]

Are Reverse Auctions Good or Bad? The Debate Continues

What are your thoughts about Reverse Auctions? Have you used them? Would you use them?

EDITOR’S NOTE: Thanks to James Meads, whose post on LinkedIn inspired my comments below. You have probably seen this from me before, but it is worth a revisit here. In 1998, I developed one of the industry’s first algorithm-driven web-based RA solutions with the generous support of the government’s Scientific Research & Experimental Development Program (SR&ED) for the DND. The solution –…

[surajp2023]

Unlock Power Of Efficiency With E-Auction Software Procurement!

At Bizongo platform, we help businesses with tech enabled processes. Customers can reach out to our platform for e-auction software procurement. For business growth customers can implement the software procurement. It is a process of acquiring electronic auction software solutions to automate the bidding and procurement process. E-auction software enables organizations to conduct online auctions, where suppliers can compete and submit bids electronically for goods, services, or contracts. 

[sayahs-corner]

Pod Bid for kandisheek Auction #1013

The Prompt:

FAKE ROYAL MARRIAGE When Steve and Tony were children, prince Tony insisted on marrying Steve, because Steve was moving away and Tony wanted them to be together forever. He made Jarvis film their wedding and gave Steve his royal insignia ring for safekeeping despite Jarvis’ protests, determined that Steve should have a wedding ring. Now that Tony is of age, Howard insists on marrying him off for business reasons, and Tony panics, telling him that he's already promised to someone and he has video proof. Howard asks Jarvis to procure the video, and since Tony used his royal ring and Jarvis technically IS an officiant, the claim does hold some weight, despite how ridiculous it is. So Howard calls him on his bluff, saying that he would love to meet his son's husband. He'll arrange another wedding to get their vows renewed next week. Tony doesn't know how in the world he'll get himself out of this mess. Steve probably doesn't even remember him, much less still consider him a friend, let alone a husband. There's no chance in hell he'll agree to marry Tony on a technicality. Right?

only $5 minimum to join!

That's about the same price as a cup of coffee, and you'll get a wonderful story from one of the fandom greats! If you aren't familiar with Kandi's work - do yourself a favor and go get familiar. She's great!

If you like the sound of this prompt and would love to see it written by the one and only super talented @kandisheek then I implore you to join this pod. Contact @starksnack on tumblr or discord!

Allow yourself to feel the satisfaction of money well spent as your donation goes directly to charity! It feels good to give back, and even better when you get a little something for yourself in the process.

[subliminalbo]

Quick Hits #26: Merchandise

She was not Charlotte Blake tonight.

She knew this even when she stepped up on stage with her mind completely empty. She knew this even when the woman in the gold, sparkling ballgown circled her like a wolf before reading out her name. "Charlotte Blake, professor of English, thirty-six years old..." She knew this even when the bidders fought amongst themselves for the right to purchase her. Not quite Charlotte Blake herself, but rather the idea of Charlotte Blake. A fantasy. One night with your favorite Carpenter State professor.

Her mind was empty, but her body was full of pleasure. She stood on stage in the Obedience by Fleur that had been fitted for her two weekends before the auction. The stimulators that lined the fabric of the lingerie delivered precision orgasms that kept her sedated, compliant, suggestable. By the time she reached the stage, nothing brought more pleasure to her than the thought of being sold.

The underground auction was one of Romero's dirtier secrets, its existence known only to Romero's elite class. The organizer was a mystery. The auctioneer changed from month to month, though it was always a gorgeous, impeccably dressed woman. Tonight's auctioneer, our lady in gold, had wavy, blonde hair and an intimidating aura. Some men in the crowd may have recognized her as Cassandra Cox, the gorgeous realtor who had sold them their homes in Stoker. She certainly didn't recognize herself.

The auction was a closed system. The organizer procured the lots through their own network, but never did any of the dirty work themselves. The auctioneer was as brainwashed as the merchandise, and she would always be put up for sale in future auctions.

Even the auction house itself changed. The attendees spent the weeks in between auctions searching Romero for clues to its next location. The merchandise were rentals, sold only for limited, non-negotiable amounts of time. When that time expired, the buyers returned their purchases to the auction house where their minds would be cleaned of any unpleasant memories and returned to their homes with a sizable deposit in their bank accounts.

Charlotte didn't know it, but this was her third night on the auction block. She was one of Romero's most popular prizes. The bidders were a mix of rich old men from Romero's upper class and their spoiled rich sons who had grown up on tall tales about the auction from their father's creepy friends. Tonight, Charlotte sold to some twenty-one year old twerp for twelve-thousand dollars.

"Do you even know who I am?" the kid laughed when Charlotte was seated next to him in his sportscar.

Charlotte felt a pleasurable chill creep up her spine, a signal going from the bra to her brain, a microscopic orgasm imperceptible to anyone but her.

"Isaac Chambers," she recited his name in an uncharacteristic monotone. "Twelve-thousand dollars buys me for twelve hours."

"Isaac, from class!" the kid laughed. "You tried to flunk me! Shit, my dad had to get involved. I can't believe this is even real."

Charlotte shook her head. "It doesn't matter who you are. Tonight you are my Master and my only purpose is to serve you."

Her soft hand glided along the fabric of the kid's pants, slowly pulling down the zipper to reveal his boxer briefs underneath. Just a little tug and his stiffening cock popped free.

The kid sank back into his seat while Charlotte's lips wrapped around his cock. Her body responded more to his approving moans than any physical pleasure he could give her. That's how she had been programmed, not just merchandise, but a deliverer of pleasure.

Endless pleasure. That's what this was all about to Charlotte in her blank state, driven solely by the instinct to receive more pleasure and the ways in which she could receive it defined entirely by her conditioning and the signals firing through her body from Obedience by Fleur.

With his eyes closed, the kid moaned, his fingers weaving through Charlotte's hair as she worked. Another orgasm rocked her body, but she remained firm and focused on the task.

"Fuck, you're so good at that," Isaac breathed. "Did you ever imagine that we'd meet again like this?"

Charlotte swallowed a breath as she released, a trail of saliva traveling from her bottom lip to the glossy tip of his cock. She stroked him a few times while she responded, "Discussing our personal lives is against auction policy, Master. But I'll be happy to do anything else."

"Tell me what you'll do," he whispered.

"I'll let you cum in my mouth," she said. "Fuck my tits, fuck my pussy, parade me naked down Greek street as your brainwashed sex slave."

The kid licked his lips.

"When we're finished here," he said. "I wanna go back to my apartment and share you with my boys. I'll be a legend for this."

"Anything you wish, Master," Charlotte moaned.

There was always room for more if that was how her Master wanted it. After all, she was not Charlotte Blake tonight. She was just merchandise.

[fictionalnormalcy]

I'm thinking about it again! Fic research, rewatching S4 of RttE. Got to Midnight Scrum. And Krogan's a bad dude, he's framed as a bad dude. But I still have sympathy for him.

He doesn't make sense being in that episode. I look at it like this. Yes, he was in there so we can see what he's capable of for when he makes more of an appearance in the 5th season. S3 was the sprinkling of signs of the RttE greenlight getting more seasons after S4.

His first appearance however, was Last Auction Standing. He was the "important guest" who would bestow a significant profit for the Grimborns. Further strengthening their reputation as dragon traders.

They were relying on his wealth, Drago's money. And Krogan, had gone under those orders to procure dragons for his army. They were establishing that by this point.

In coming back to Midnight Scrum, I think of the moment Krogan forces Hiccup in front of Ryker.

"Your eyes look familiar masked man. Do I know you?"

Now this begs the question: Why doesn't he want them knowing he's the same man from the auction? This same important guest?

Best answer my mind conjures, the bounty wasn't an order from his superior. The reward would have only been for his benefit.

I return to this post I made years back.

[oliversrarebooks]

The Rare Bookseller Part 43: Katherine's Advice

Prev > Masterlist > Next

September 1925

TW: conditioning, discussion of abuse, panic attacks

Oliver put the finishing touches on a set of egg-salad sandwiches, neat triangles with the crust removed, and set them on a platter along with an assortment of tea cookies from a local bakery. Truthfully, he didn't know the first thing about entertaining -- with no friends or family and a tiny bookshop apartment, it wasn't anything he'd ever had to do. Alexander had some helpful suggestions for things he'd seen other thralls do, and had procured the supplies Oliver would need for a light midnight lunch (or whatever one might call it.)

In fact, Alexander had been hovering around Oliver a great deal since their fraught conversation a couple of nights before. He'd bought a bounty of foods he supposed Oliver might like, and seemed to be popping up around every corner of the library to show Oliver interesting books.  It was as though his master thought he needed to win his favor all over again -- despite the fact that Oliver was still very much enthralled, his thoughts often going hazy and filling with imagined echoes of siren song.

Oliver didn't really need the attention, but he did appreciate the advice on entertaining. Embarrassing as it was, Oliver really did want to impress his guests. So much had happened over the past few weeks, his entire life and conception of the world turned on its end. The only people who might really understand were vampires' thralls. Miriam hadn't seemed quite lucid enough for a true conversation, but Alexander had told him that Miss Ruth's thrall, Charlie, was quite intelligent and together.

It'd be nice to talk to someone else who had gone through... this. That was all.

He had just finished up in the kitchen when the doorbell rang and his master rushed to greet the guests. "Hello hello!" sang a voice that Oliver would never forget: Miss Lily. She brought both of her hands to her face in a dramatic mock gasp. "Lex? No, it can't be. You don't look like you just clawed your way out of a grave. Who are you, and what have you done with Lex?"

"Mm. Nice to see you too."

"And look at you!" Miss Lily ruffled Oliver's hair. "You look like you're adjusting quite well! Are you the one responsible for Lex's shocking good health?"

Oliver blushed, not certain how to respond to the praise. She seemed different from how she had been in the auction house, more relaxed, but something about her voice and mannerisms still made Oliver feel a bit dazed and eager to please. "I'm just glad I was able to help him, sir."

"Of course you did. I just knew a thrall like you could do him a world of good. Speaking of which..." She pulled her thrall Miriam through the front door, and she looked at Oliver with her usual clouded expression. "Miriam, you remember Oliver, don't you? Lord Alexander's new thrall?"

She looked confused for a moment before her face lit up a bit in recognition. "Oh, yes! From when we were staying at the auction house. It's good to see you again."

"It's good to see you, too." Miriam's uncertain mental state made him a bit uneasy. If Lily and Alexander were anything alike, would he end up similarly entranced? Would he even realize if it happened? Was it happening already?

"But Miriam's not the only person I've brought along. I took the liberty of inviting one of our old friends that Lex has been avoiding."

Alexander looked confused. "Ruth? I haven't been avoiding her."

"Ruth's on the way, too, but no, not her."

"Oh -- you don't mean --"

A sophisticated-looking older woman, gray hair tucked in neat curls, stepped out from the porch. She was wearing an old-fashioned, dark blue flannel dress with a high collar. Behind her was another older woman, also wearing an old-fashioned flannel dress, hers covered with a ruffled white pinafore.

"Edith! It's been ages!" said Alexander.

"And whose fault is that?" she said, in the tone of a worried mother. "You kept turning me away when I called on you, and I'd hear all about it from Lily -- how you refused to take a thrall, and were drinking bottled blood --"

Alexander looked uncharacteristically cowed by the scolding. "And I'm sure she's told you that I have a suitable thrall, now, so you needn't worry about my health."

"I'll stop being worried about your health when you start taking proper care of yourself," she said. "But I'd like to meet this thrall of yours. Is this him?"

Even with his master and Miss Lily around him, Oliver could still feel the pull of this new vampire's aura on his mind. It was soothing, almost numbing, and he had the odd thought that she must be a good master. "My name is Oliver Pines, sir, and I am indeed Lord Alexander's thrall. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Oh, what a polite and charming thrall," Miss Edith said with a smile. She shamelessly took Oliver's chin in her hand to examine his face, and Oliver was surprised that his master didn't seem to mind. "Healthy, and his blood smells very nourishing."

"As you can see, I'm taking care of myself just fine," said Alexander defensively.

"I suppose this is a better state of affairs than your usual. But where are my manners? I haven't introduced myself properly." she said, and then turned back to Oliver. "You may address me as Dr. Edith. I'm a doctor who has served the vampire community for over a century. If you're ever sick or injured, no doubt your master will call on me to help."

"You're a vampire... doctor, sir?"

"There are very few health ailments that can afflict vampires, so I primarily take care of their precious thralls. After all, healthy thralls are necessary for a healthy vampire," she said, with a pointed look at Alexander.

He rolled his eyes with a smile on his face. "Yes, yes, your point has been made."

"And this is Katherine, my faithful nurse," said Dr. Edith, gesturing to the woman who had accompanied her.

Katherine delicately shook Oliver's hand. "Good to meet you." She looked bright-eyed compared to Miriam, but her hand was warm, and she clearly was not a vampire.

"Are you a..."

"Dr. Edith's thrall, yes, and her nurse and assistant and whatever else is required of me."

"I see," he said with relief. He was looking forward to having a chat with a thrall who seemed to still have her wits about her.

While the group was still exchanging pleasantries, hanging up coats and hats, when the doorbell rang once again. It was Miss Ruth, the vampire lawyer who had sized up Oliver's suitability for a clerk at the auction house. She was followed by a tall, broad-shouldered man.

"Do you remember me, Oliver?" she asked.

"Yes, sir, I remember you very well. You asked me to recite state capitals. I'm glad to see you well."

Miss Ruth looked at him with longing. "Oh, I do wish I could have afforded to buy you," she said. "But no matter how hard I work, I just can't compete with Lex's fortune."

The broad-shouldered man was named Charlie, and he was one of Miss Ruth's thralls and law clerks. He favorited Oliver with a stoic nod, and between him and Katherine, he couldn't help but feel a bit self-conscious. Now that he was fully enthralled and owned by a vampire, it was strange to be around other humans, even those in a similar boat. It made him more keenly aware of his situation, and he wondered how he seemed to other people, all too aware that he was under a hypnotic spell.

"Now that all of our guests have arrived, Oliver, why don't you get your tea and refreshments and show the thralls into the second-floor sitting room?" said Alexander. "We'll be meeting in the parlor, and I would prefer not to be disturbed."

"Yes, sir," said Oliver, feeling more than a bit like a child being shooed off so the adults could talk. But even though he'd love to hear what the vampires were discussing -- especially since he seemed to be of particular interest to them -- he was also eager to have a chat with the other thralls.

A few moments later, and he'd enlisted Katherine and Charlie's help in carrying trays to the sitting room. The curtains were open wide, offering a pleasant view of the gaslit city streets and the waning moon. Miriam settled into a plush chair and pulled a knitting project out of a small bag as Oliver poured tea for the four of them.

"Please, help yourself to sandwiches and cookies," he said.

"You're a lovely host, Oliver," Katherine commented. "And so lucid, as well." 

"Um --"

Charlie glared. "An awkward thing to say to a new thrall, don't you think?"

"At my age, I don't see any point dancing around the bush. I've seen hundreds of thralls, after all, and I'm well aware that we're some of the more fortunate ones."

"How long have you two been thralls?" asked Oliver.

"Six years for me," said Charlie.

"I've been with the doctor for nearly thirty years now."

"Thirty years!" said Oliver. "I didn't know... well..."

"Didn't realize that a thrall could last so long in the service of a vampire?" said Katherine, amused. "It's understandable, but it's more common than you might expect. I'm particularly lucky in that my master is a doctor, and so I'm kept very healthy."

"Do you like your master?"

"I do," said Katherine. "I'm under her spell, of course, but after all these years, that's practically background noise. But after having met so many vampires, I'm glad it was the doctor who enthralled me. I meet lots of interesting people and vampires, and I get to help them. I'm never bored. And she's always treated me well."

"I'm also happy to serve my master," said Charlie in a tone that sounded a bit strange. "I mean, I do miss my old life sometimes, and it's hard work to be a clerk, but my living conditions are so much better than when I was working at the factory, that's for sure. My math and reading have improved, too."

"And how about you, Oliver? What's your first impression of serving Lord Alexander?" said Katherine.

Oliver's mind swirled with thoughts, of his master's siren song and his feeding and his need, of the library and the comfortable bed and generous food, of his tiny apartment above the bookshop that used to be modest but his, of the threat of his master's sire.

"It's been good so far. Lord Alexander will be a good master to me, I hope," said Oliver carefully. "But... did you two know his previous thralls?"

Katherine exchanged a look with Charlie. "Ah, yes, Henry. I remember him. He was more... subdued. Like Miriam." 

"Like Miriam," Oliver repeated, his fear of having his mind fade away from him renewed.

Miriam looked up from her knitting. "Hm?"

"Nothing, dear," said Katherine. "I believe that Lord Alexander has, for the most part, always treated his thralls very well. He's a gentle vampire, and he's always treated me with more respect than is due a thrall. But..."

"But?"

"Well... I have had to treat a number of mysterious injuries on Alexander's previous thralls. Miss Lily's as well. I assume you know what those two have in common."

Charlie looked impatient. "There's no need to beat around the bush. Our vampires won't mind us talking about this. They're probably talking about the same thing," he said. "Oliver, what has Lord Alexander told you about the Maestro?"

"The Maestro?" said Oliver, his eyes widening. "Is that... his sire?"

"Oh dear. Yes, he is," said Katherine. "So he's told you very little. It's the way of vampires, unfortunately. Even my master barely tells me anything."

Oliver gripped his chair. "I need to know. Please, tell me."

"I'm afraid I don't know that much myself. He's notoriously reclusive. But I have had to visit his manor to attend to thralls on a number of occasions. Even my master would prefer not to go there, but she says it's too dangerous to defy him."

"What was he like?"

Katherine leaned in close, as though the subject of their conversation might somehow overhear. "His power lets him control people's bodies utterly. His thralls are like toy soldiers, moving to a drum only they can hear. I'm used to all kinds of thralls, but his were uncanny." Katherine shuddered. "Even though he didn't lay a hand on me, he was glaring at me the entire time, and I could feel his influence pulling at my mind. A feeling as though I had to fall in line immediately, or something terrible would happen. Like I could barely think without him hearing it. I've rarely wanted to flee a manor so quickly as that one."

"That does sound... unpleasant," he said, trying to keep his hands from shaking as he sipped his tea, unable to stop his imagination from conjuring visions of himself being used as little more than a puppet. "And his thralls were injured?"

"My master complained that he hadn't called until they were practically bleeding out -- afterwards, of course, not while we were there. Malnourished, too, with a haunted look about them." She put a hand on his knee with a sympathetic look. "But these were the Maestro's own thralls, not Alexander's. You have far less to worry about here. As I've said, I've always found him to be a very gentle vampire."

"Convenient," huffed Charlie. "A vampire with a reputation for being gentle and honest, who gets to blame all his thralls' injuries on his notoriously cruel sire."

Katherine looked alarmed. "Charlie --"  

"I'm just saying that I find it hard to believe the apple falls that far from the tree."

Before Katherine could interject again, Miriam unexpectedly looked up from her knitting, fear written on her normally placid face. "But it is true," she insisted. "Lord Alexander has never hurt me. Neither has Miss Lily, except when she has to leave me there, and --" Tears began to roll down her face. "I can hear it. I can still hear it. Miss Lily told me I could forget, but I can't, I can't forget or he'll punish me --"

"Miriam, oh dear, Miriam, it's okay," said Katherine, pulling the sobbing thrall into an embrace. "It's all right, Miriam. No one's going to hurt you here. You're safe with us, dear."

"I can dance. I can do the dance perfectly, I promise, just let me try, I can do it." Miriam's anxious mumble was barely intelligible between her crying and the way she was pressed against Katherine.

"Miriam, you aren't there. You aren't anywhere frightening. You're having tea at Lord Alexander's house, remember?"

"I'm at...?"

"Lord Alexander's house. His thrall Oliver is being such a gracious host. It's perfectly safe. See?"

Miriam seemed to wake from her terror almost as quickly as she'd fallen into it. "Oh, of course, I don't know what I was thinking!" she said, glassy-eyed as she lifted her head from Katherine's shoulder. "Oh, I always enjoy when my madam visits Lord Alexander. He's very kind to me."

"Of course he is, dear," said Katherine, patting her back. "We really shouldn't bring up such awful topics around Miriam. She's a sensitive soul. Charlie, how's your baseball team doing?"

Oliver wanted to hear more, even though it terrified him, but he also felt awful that his questioning had thrown Miriam into a panic, so he eagerly went along with the topic change. "You like baseball, Charlie?"

"Love baseball, always have," he said, also looking relieved at the conversation switch. "My master gave me a great radio set, so I can listen to all the games. But my team's doing awful this year -- bottom of the league. They never shoulda traded their star pitcher..." 

As Oliver listened to Charlie rant about blown games and poor referee calls, as Katherine discussed birdwatching and a new bread recipe she'd tried, he could almost forget the fear of his situation and feel a little bit normal.

It was only later, after Charlie and his madam left and Miriam was engrossed in her knitting, that Oliver was able to pull Katherine aside. "Katherine, will you please hear me out?"

"Certainly," she said in a motherly tone. "I know how hard it is, the first few weeks of being a vampire's thrall."

"What you said before..." He glanced around as if he were afraid his master would pop out of the shadows at any moment. "Am I safe here? Will I be all right? I've been conditioned to be unable escape..."

"That's normal, yes. I assume Miss Lily was the one who handled your conditioning?"

"She was."

"Then no, I don't expect you'll be able to escape," she said. She put a hand on Oliver's shoulder. "I can't promise that you will be safe. What I said about the Maestro was all true, and while I do believe Alexander means well on the whole, you're among vampires now. We live in their world, and they do what they will with us."

Oliver felt his gut twist. "So then..."

"I've met so many thralls in my life. Hundreds, probably. Most in worse situations than you, and some in better," she said. "Would you like to hear my honest advice about surviving this?"

"Yes, by all means."

"Find happiness wherever you can. Find joy outside of your master's enthralling and feeding. Hobbies, food, art, education, anything that brings you pleasure -- indulge in it." She smiled warmly. "You'll need these pleasures to keep your mind sharp and keep your soul from despair. When you're permanently a prisoner, you need something tangible to look forward to, even if it's simply a warm drink or a beam of sunshine. You seem like the sort of man who can appreciate the mundane."

"...I like to believe so, yes."

"That's a skill that will serve you well, Oliver," she said. "Even if Alexander and his sire are cruel to you, you'll still have something to hold on to during your darkest moments."

"Something to hold on to..." 

"I think you will figure it out. With how much Lord Alexander seems to prize you, it wouldn't surprise me to meet you here twenty years from now, looking back on our lives with our vampires."

She seemed to mean it, and that gave Oliver hope.

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I really enjoy Edith as a character and hope to write at least one side story with her.

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[fandomtrumpshate]

How can I support Gaza with my FTH auction?

Among the organizations selected for FTH this year, none are exclusively devoted to providing aid for Gaza. However, we want to draw your attention to two orgs that are doing important work, and are small enough that our donations will make a real difference to them. Please consider selecting one of them if you wish to raise money for this cause.

Never Again Action is a Jewish-led organization that is currently mobilized against genocide in Gaza and calling for a ceasefire.

Middle East Children's Alliance and partners are providing emergency assistance to families who have fled their homes to seek shelter with relatives as well as procuring emergency medical supplies for hospitals and clinics.

As always, creators may also specify a nonprofit of their choice. The FTH mods will do our best to verify that any such orgs are legitimate before posting, but they won't have been subjected to the same level of scrutiny as our officially supported nonprofits.

[procurengine3]

Understanding Supplier Management Software

In today’s competitive business environment, effective supplier management is crucial for organizations seeking to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency. Supplier management software plays a pivotal role in achieving these objectives. This article explores the key features, benefits, and types of procurement software available, including procurement management software, e-procurement software, and more.

What is Supplier Management Software?

Supplier management software is designed to help businesses manage their relationships with suppliers. It encompasses a variety of functionalities that support the entire supplier lifecycle, from onboarding to performance evaluation. By utilizing this software, organizations can effectively monitor supplier performance, ensure compliance, and optimize procurement strategies.

In conclusion, supplier management software is an essential tool for organizations looking to optimize their procurement processes. By leveraging the capabilities of procurement management software, e-procurement software, and other related tools, businesses can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks associated with supplier relationships. As the market evolves, investing in the right procurement software will be key to maintaining a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced business environment.

[sysaler]

A forward auction is a sales mechanism where sellers list their goods or services, and buyers compete by placing increasingly higher bids. In the contract of manufacturing, Best forward auctions software can be used to purchase raw materials, components, equipment, and even services at competitive prices. This process fosters transparency, competition, and efficiency benefiting the buyer with better pricing and terms.

[auctionsoftware]

The success of Procurement in the Manufacturing Industry? Sysaler

Procurement software serves various key functions and benefits for organizations purchasing goods and services. Here are some key aspects and features typically found in procurement software:

Supplier Management: Tools for managing supplier information, maintaining supplier databases, and evaluating supplier performance.

Purchase Requisition: Capability to create, review, and approve purchase requests within the organization, often through automated workflows.

Purchase Order Management: Generating, tracking, and managing purchase orders efficiently, including integration with accounting systems for financial tracking.

Contract Management: Storing and managing contracts with suppliers, including key dates, terms, and conditions.

Inventory Management: Some procurement software includes inventory tracking and management features to optimize stock levels and reduce overstock or stockouts.

Spend Analysis: Analyzing spending patterns and trends to identify cost-saving opportunities and ensure compliance with budgetary constraints.

Electronic Sourcing (e Sourcing): Tools for conducting sourcing events such as RFx (Request for Information/Proposal/Quote) processes electronically, facilitating competitive bidding.

Supplier Collaboration: Platforms for communication and collaboration with suppliers, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the procurement process.

Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring compliance with internal policies as well as regulatory requirements, and managing risks associated with supplier relationships.

Reporting and Analytics: Providing dashboards and reports that offer insights into procurement performance, supplier performance, and spending patterns.

Integration Capabilities: Ability to integrate with other enterprise systems such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), and accounting software for seamless data flow.

Mobile Access: Increasingly, procurement software offers mobile access, allowing users to manage procurement tasks on the go.

User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive interfaces that simplify the procurement process, reducing the learning curve for users.

Automation and Workflow: Automating repetitive tasks such as approvals, notifications, and data entry to streamline operations and reduce manual effort.

Scalability: Capability to scale with the organization’s growth, handling increasing transaction volumes and complexity.

Sysaler is the best procurement software company in Noida. These key features collectively aim to improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance collaboration, and provide better control and visibility over the procurement process within organizations.