#renty somethings

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Yanis Varoufakis’s “Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism?”

Monday (October 2), I'll be in Boise to host an event with VE Schwab. On October 7–8, I'm in Milan to keynote Wired Nextfest.

Socialists have been hotly anticipating the end of capitalism since at least 1848, when Marx and Engels published The Communist Manifesto - but the Manifesto also reminds us that capitalism is only too happy to reinvent itself during its crises, coming back in new forms, over and over again:

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/31/books/review/a-spectre-haunting-china-mieville.html

Now, in Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism, Yanis Varoufakis - the "libertarian Marxist" former finance minister of Greece - makes an excellent case that capitalism died a decade ago, turning into a new form of feudalism: technofeudalism:

https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/451795/technofeudalism-by-varoufakis-yanis/9781847927279

To understand where Varoufakis is coming from, you need to go beyond the colloquial meanings of "capitalism" and "feudalism." Capitalism isn't just "a system where we buy and sell things." It's a system where capital rules the roost: the richest, most powerful people are those who coerce workers into using their capital (factories, tools, vehicles, etc) to create income in the form of profits.

By contrast, a feudal society is one organized around people who own things, charging others to use them to produce goods and services. In a feudal society, the most important form of income isn't profit, it's rent. To quote Varoufakis: "rent flows from privileged access to things in fixed supply" (land, fossil fuels, etc). Profit comes from "entrepreneurial people who have invested in things that wouldn't have otherwise existed."

This distinction is subtle, but important: "Profit is vulnerable to market competition, rent is not." If you have a coffee shop, then every other coffee shop that opens on your block is a competitive threat that could erode your margins. But if you own the building the coffee shop owner rents, then every other coffee shop that opens on the block raises the property values and the amount of rent you can charge.

The capitalist revolution - extolled and condemned in the Manifesto - was led by people who valorized profits as the heroic returns for making something new in this world, and who condemned rents as a parasitic drain on the true producers whose entrepreneurial spirits would enrich us all. The "free markets" extolled by Adam Smith weren't free from regulation - they were free from rents:

https://locusmag.com/2021/03/cory-doctorow-free-markets/

But rents, Varoufakis writes, "survived only parasitically on, and in the shadows of, profit." That is, rentiers (people whose wealth comes from rents) were a small rump of the economy, slightly suspect and on the periphery of any consideration of how to organize our society. But all that changed in 2008, when the world's central banks addressed the Great Financial Crisis by bailing out not just the banks, but the bankers, funneling trillions to the people whose reckless behavior brought the world to the brink of economic ruin.

Suddenly, these wealthy people, and their banks, experienced enormous wealth-gains without profits. Their businesses lost billions in profits (the cost of offering the business's products and services vastly exceeded the money people spent on those products and services). But the business still had billions more at the end of the year than they'd had at the start: billions in public money, funneled to them by central banks.

This kicked off the "everything rally" in which every kind of asset - real estate, art, stocks, bonds, even monkey JPEGs - ballooned in value. That's exactly what you'd expect from an economy where rents dominate over profits. Feudal rentiers don't need to invest to keep making money - remember, their wealth comes from owning things that other people invest in to make money.

Rents are not vulnerable to competition, so rentiers don't need to plow their rents into new technology to keep the money coming in. The capitalist that leases the oil field needs to invest in new pumps and refining to stay competitive with other oil companies. But the rentier of the oil field doesn't have to do anything: either the capitalist tenant will invest in more capital and make the field more valuable, or they will lose out to another capitalist who'll replace them. Either way, the rentier gets more rent.

So when capitalists get richer, they spend some of that money on new capital, but when rentiers get richer, them spend money on more assets they can rent to capitalists. The "everything rally" made all kinds of capital more valuable, and companies that were transitioning to a feudal footing turned around and handed that money to their investors in stock buybacks and dividends, rather than spending the money on R&D, or new plants, or new technology.

The tech companies, though, were the exception. They invested in "cloud capital" - the servers, lines, and services that everyone else would have to pay rent on in order to practice capitalism.

Think of Amazon: Varoufakis likens shopping on Amazon to visiting a bustling city center filled with shops run by independent capitalists. However, all of those capitalists are subservient to a feudal lord: Jeff Bezos, who takes 51 cents out of every dollar they bring in, and furthermore gets to decide which products they can sell and how those products must be displayed:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/#relentless-payola

The postcapitalist, technofeudal world isn't a world without capitalism, then. It's a world where capitalists are subservient to feudalists ("cloudalists" in Varoufakis's thesis), as are the rest of us the cloud peons, from the social media users and performers who fill the technofuedalists' siloes with "content" to the regular users whose media diet is dictated by the cloudalists' recommendation systems:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/01/21/potemkin-ai/#hey-guys

A defining feature of cloudalism is the ability of the rentier lord to destroy any capitalist vassal's business with the click of a mouse. If Google kicks your business out of the search index, or if Facebook blocks your publication, or if Twitter shadowbans mentions of your product, or if Apple pulls your app from the store, you're toast.

Capitalists "still have the power to command labor from the majority who are reliant on wages," but they are still mere vassals to the cloudalists. Even the most energetic capitalist can't escape paying rent, thanks in large part to "IP," which I claim is best understood as "laws that let a company reach beyond its walls to dictate the conduct of competitors, critics and customers":

https://locusmag.com/2020/09/cory-doctorow-ip/

Varoufakis points to ways that the cloudalists can cement their gains: for example, "green" energy doesn't rely on land-leases (like fossil fuels), but it does rely on networked grids and data-protocols that can be loaded up with IP, either or both of which can be turned into chokepoints for feudal rent-extraction. To make things worse, Varoufakis argues that cloudalists won't be able to muster the degree of coordination and patience needed to actually resolve the climate emergency - they'll not only extract rent from every source of renewables, but they'll also silo them in ways that make them incapable of doing the things we need them to do.

Energy is just one of the technofeudal implications that Varoufakis explores in this book: there are also lengthy and fascinating sections on geopolitics, monetary policy, and the New Cold War. Technofeudalism - and the struggle to produce a dominant fiefdom - is a very useful lens for understanding US/Chinese tech wars.

Though Varoufakis is laying out a technical and even esoteric argument here, he takes great pains to make it accessible. The book is structured as a long open letter to his father, a chemical engineer and leftist who was a political prisoner during the fascist takeover of Greece. The framing device works very well, especially if you've read Talking To My Daughter About the Economy, Varoufakis's 2018 radical economics primer in the form of a letter to his young daughter:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374538491/talkingtomydaughterabouttheeconomy

At the very end of the book, Varoufakis calls for "a cloud rebellion to overthrow technofeudalism." This section is very short - and short on details. That's not a knock against the book: there are plenty of very good books that consist primarily or entirely of analysis of the problems with a system, without having to lay out a detailed program for solving those problems.

But for what it's worth, I think there is a way to plan and execute a "cloud rebellion" - a way to use laws, technology, reverse-engineering and human rights frameworks to shatter the platforms and seize the means of computation. I lay out that program in The Internet Con: How the Seize the Means of Computation, a book I published with Verso Books a couple weeks ago:

https://www.versobooks.com/products/3035-the-internet-con

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/28/cloudalists/#cloud-capital

[demoiselettes]

BRAIN ROT BRAIN ROT!!!

This is mostly a little based of a fanfic I read a long time ago from wattpad (I was baby and didn’t know anything else existed shut up) so it’s a modern kny but with a little twist, due to a demon’s blood demon art the slayer where transported into the modern world one by one and (for plot purposes) into the reader’s home. Keep that in mind

So just imagine, the hashiras and the main cast all have been transported into the reader’s home. The cast is mostly just lounging around as due to their unfamiliarity with the modern world, they can’t go outside without causing a ruckus, and due to the pop culture nature of dressing up and having demons in stories, they’ve been restricted to only going outside, so they don’t get mixed up, at night to hunt the demons that have also been transported into the modern world.

But their entire presence puts reader in a tight spot. They’ve used their emergency money to buy extra food and clothes for the slayers who came here. They’ve had multiple heart attacks when some of the slayers did something out of the ordinary of the modern world, and almost got in trouble with the police when metal detectors caught the slayers swords. Now reader has not said anything about this as they feel bad about the positions the slayers are in, they believe the slayers when they say their are from the past as when the reader asked them if they were aware of World War II and they responded no that said everything, as japan had a large prideful participation in World War II. So reader has been working their butt off to provide for the slayers until they get they get the jist of the modern world and find a way back home.

Reader is talking with Giyu on the side about questions of the modern world he has. Him being the last few slayers who where transported here so he needs this. When asking about how housing works (cause how do people live in the city with those buildings) the topic of rent comes up. Reader explains how rent works and says “for example if I rent out my house I would ask 100 or maybe 200$ as payment from the renty” when further explaining rent Giyu becomes paler and paler. The next day Giyu goes out on his own, reader does not mind this as Giyu is more calmer compared to some of the other slayers and is a quick learn of the few things of the modern era so they don’t think about it much. Nobody does anything about Giyu leaving. Soon he’s leave at certain times. One day tanjiro comes up to Giyu in private to ask what he’s doing. Giyu mentions that he has work now. Tanjiro question this and Giyu explains rent to him. Tanjiro is confused why Giyu is explaining rent. Giyu then questions tanjiro who has been paying for at least 15 people from their own wallet. After a quick silence Tanjiro becomes deathly pale and quickly asks Giyu how to get a job (how dare he and nezuko leech of the reader and their money while they lounge around trying to learn stuff they can learn later, they’ve reached the lowest of the low and now they must pay them back for it) Giyu got a job delivering food as he’s good with directions and very very fast. Yes his social skills are terrible but he gets the job done the best way possible which boost the ratings of the restaurant as customers get their food neat and warm. He’s gotten raises for that. Tanjiro soon get a job as a cashier along with nezuko, who more content with staying outside of her box with the thick clothing the modern era had (also a pink mask with Sanrio characters on it looks adorable on her) as they also stay inside for their job it makes it easier to stay out of the sun. They also do not mention the job they have in fear reader might stop them.

A week rolls around and Friday comes around. Some slayers are reading about history, some are watching tv, some are watching the world go by from the window, like zenitsu who is picking at the noise canceling headphones he got from the reader, he loves them but he’s not used to them yet. And some slayers are doing chores. Giyu comes up to the reader along with tanjiro when everyone is in the room. (That man cannot read the room and tanjiro with nezuko just followed) Giyu hands reader an yellow envelope a says it’s rent. Tanjiro does the same thing and says he’s paying for both him and nezuko. The reader declines at first but tanjiro takes the lead by mentioning that the reader has done a lot for them and the least they can do is give back the money the reader has used on them and leave the reader stable when they leave this world. Giyu also mentions the definition of rent as well. The reader gives in and takes the money. Giyu paid 200$ along with tanjiro but the reader gives back a 100$ back to tanjiro as they feel bad and tell him to use that money on things they want when exploring the world. Giyu and tanjiro question this and the reader drags them outside to show them leave the room along with Giyu and tanjiro. The room goes silent. Soon Mitsuri starts to yell and fumble and drops the romance book she was reading and rushes outside to at least find a why to get money, obanai following. Shinbou ( she’s fucking pissed at Giyu) mentions to Kaneo and Aoi to follow along and they do, knowing what they have to do. Zenitsu bolts outside in fear of being in debt.( he’s not really but he feels like he is) soon everyone in the room follows. Semani yelling at genya that he’s not paying for the both of them. And yes they are mad a Giyu, not tanjiro tho

While the reader, tanjiro and Giyu go to the nearest ice cream parlor to get some ice cream. Reader encourages tanjiro to get ice and he does. They all get ice cream. This makes tanjiro excited to explore more when he gets a day off. It’s was nice ice cream they had a nice time Giyu got beat up when he got home

:D

… you really thought this through huh

It’s fucking funny bc i imagine reader coming back home after an arduous day of work and wanting nothing more than to crash on their bed and then come back to an entire entourage of cosplayers or whatever lounging around their living room and they wonder if they accidentally got high off something

And you know that half of these guys (sanemi, Obanai, Kyojuro and even Giyuu) would surge forward to skewer reader with their swords thinking reader’s a demon or something and it’s Tanjiro that catches onto the very human scent of our lovely reader (u guys, basically) and it’s the face off between Sanemi & Giyuu again bc Tanjiro doesn’t hesitate a second before putting himself in between reader and the crazy dudes and taking the beating instead 💀

Out of eveyone Giyuu would be more concerned and guilty about what happened and he’d yell at Tanjiro.. out of concern of course. And reader’s stuck to the back watching a bunch of strangers that are too enthusiastic about their stage play trot around their house, asking questions about the tv, the microwave, and every electrical apparatus they see

Mitsuri, Shinobu, Nezuko and the other butterfly girls are the most docile ones and though they’re just as shaken up as the guys they can clearly see you’re completely shaken up as well and have not at all anticipated any of this. Shinobu would be the one to approach you first bc she’s apparently the only one who wants to figure out what is going on and make sense of the situation in a civilized manner that does not involve further traumatizing you, followed by a timid Mitsuri

Fast forward to reader giving them a half-assed explanation of the 21st century, Covid (scaring the shit out of almost all of them, except for Tengen. ‘Such a drab virus’ he exclaims.) and how the world works in modern times. In truth, reader leaves out a ton of explanations bc they cannot believe these guys are from the Taisho Era, reader thinks they are just messing around with them but is too tired to argue and in turn they get a description of a world where demons exist which pretty much confirms what reader already suspected: they are high off something

However within the next few days reader realizes that they are far too unaccustomed to modern technology and the way of life which honestly just horrifies them bc that means what they claimed was true. And so reader allows them to leave in their home (i will not mention the accommodation, just try to make sense that 10+ strangers are now in your house) and caters for their needs

And after that honeymoon phase reader realizes that they are becoming short on money to feed this many people (one of whom eats for 5 people) and yet reader’s become too attached to them and they lunatic ways to leave them to fend for themselves so they pick up another job, unbeknownst to everyone

Except the others (or at least Tanjiro and Zenitsu) begin noticing reader’s more than tired energy, the dark circles, the change in mental health for the worse and they tell Kyojuro + Giyuu about it. Giyuu decides to have a one on one with reader and the explanation that muffin gave above is granted to him, and now he’s on the hunt for jobs but it’s fairly hard for him without any prior working experience, but hey he’s survived as a slayer he can deal with an overbearing boss

With his new job (it can be anything i won’t elaborate), he begins saving up his own money and you don’t notice it when you’re busy catering for the others, but you spend less and less on him and for once he doesn’t feel like a burden, and although he assures Tanjiro he can provide for both him and Nezuko Tanji still gets a job and you best believe his work colleagues & boss are gonna be wondering why the fuck they saw a little girl with a sanrio mask coming out of a box

I think Zenitsu would whine a ton about going to work, but he’s got such a golden heart and he’d realized he’s been leeching off reader he’ll feel so bad :( mitsuri would single-handedly open a restaurant 💀

[urlocalpussycat]

// kinda renty, nothing serious tho

So there is like one rus dude that makes mincraft lets plays with plot and shit(he doing this with his team btw) and his name is lololoshka. Man i loved his videos ever since i was little and these new story lets plays are so fun, at least they were until the most recent lets play drooped:/(its name is voice of time btw). Man this show is so bad in comparison with last one its wild. The last one had qeeur representation, a lot of female lead characters and i just like the story better tbh. And also writers gave the main character the option to be in relationship with jther char, which he decided against rom relationship

Now this new one often boils my blood. First of all, there only two female lead characters, you can argue that only one tbh, there 0 female characters in background and good lord this lets play is angsty and edgy af cuz like there each new episode some kind of moment like "WhAt you are me FaThEr!? It cant be!!!" and its so damn often. Also all the conflicts feel so repetitiveevrey time, there always point of "distrust" and then "forgivness" cuz its turned out somw character were some hiding something from main characters(and this shit happened like 20 times). Also, about the main characters, the only two that we have is angsty girl without parents an mood swings and just the "cool" type of girl. I still love them, dont get me wrong, but they both seem so flat with other characters. And the worst part, the first girl became Lololoshka's love interest, writes just didn't even bother to give an option to choose(like idk SAY NO TO A FUCKING KISS) and its so damn sad for me. Like this girl is the only girl that we(viewers) see often enough and she becames fucking love interest??? Without even asking the main characte?? Bruh

[qwertyu858]

Something interesting its that, from a literal couple of years ago, all mexican social media has been infested with 'relatable memes' about how its impossible to own a house and how nobody owns a house and how thanks to late stage capitalism, you will never own a house and how everyone is a rentie in mexico...

And people believe that?? Like for some reason, a lot of people that I have personally talked with (specially young people) believe that. Even when actually, irl, around 70% of adult mexicans own the houses where they live. Not rent them.

Hell, almost half of mexicans living in mexico city (a freaking city with around 10 million habitans, I think basically the same than new york city) own their own house or apartment.

So idk where the fuck that thing came from.

[wyvolf]

INTRO/PINNED

Howdy! Please take the time to read this before following/interacting!

-> For Commissions: https://wyvolf.carrd.co/ -> Art Blog: @wyvolf-art

basics Please call me Wyv(ern), Gun, or Courier! Either pick one or use interchangeably.

My pronouns are: he/him/his + jet/jets/jetself, they/them is fine so long as it's used sparingly. Please do not call me by she/her or it/its. Thank you!

Trans man, gay queer (nebularomantic, objectum, demisex/rom towards fem folk NOT bi/pan), probably ace spec somewhere I don't know. Non-woman liker basically. // T DATE: 9/09/24, non-human/alterhuman (+therian / dragon otherkin)

ADHD / autism, questioning OSDD-1 (on and off since like 2016 lol, i could very well be wrong seeing a professional abt it ASAP), I experience memory issues, paranoia issues, dyslexia, depersonalization/derealization, and other stuff. Please be patient with me, but PLEASE for the love of whatever call me out on something. Do NOT baby me.

boundaries / important things to note

-> sometimes i alternate between "me/myself/i" and "we/us/our". -> I don't censor words. Basically I don't put asterisks or dashes or numbers in (such as k*ll, or s///cide, or using numbers in place of letters). It actually makes it harder for me to read. -> this is my account i post/reblog what i want, i'll tag what i can but i won't be tagging niche/uncommon things. -> please do not interact if: very argumentative people, people who engage in LGBTQ label/flag discourse when there are bigger things to worry about (i.e. pedophiles trying to claim to be LGBT, saying trans mascs cannot be 'lesbians' or trans fems cannot be 'gays', etc), 'drama queens' (you know: the type to constantly stir drama, drag others unrelated in... like get a life!), and similar groups. It depends on the individual generally. -> i don't care about system discourse, that shit is a headache and a half. -> as said please do not baby me, i'm a grown man who drinks beer like twice a week. -> my triggers are my buisness only. pay me exactly $200 per trigger to know.

no public DNI. I block out of comfort or if you give me a nasty vibe. (typically racists, xenophobes, anti-LGBTQIA, fascists, Zionists, pedophiles, zoophiles, rad queers, etc).

my interests list / stuff i'll likely reblog n' yap about: -> interests renty (ones that I am currently active in, bold = major) SCP, Creepypasta, Marble Hornets, Warrior Cats, Wings of Fire, South Park, Cult of the Lamb, Fallout New Vegas, Transformers.

userboxes (yay)

(what a mess / things can change, if you have questions you are free to DM me about it).

[hiimanshiiitsolutions]

Flats for Sale in Gampalagudem, Andhra Pradesh:

A Great Investment Opportunity Gampalagudem, a serene town in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, has gradually emerged as an attractive destination for those looking to buy flats in the state. With its strategic location, improving infrastructure, and growing real estate market, Gampalagudem presents a promising investment opportunity for individuals seeking flats for sale in Gampalagudem, Andhra Pradesh. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or someone looking to invest in property, this charming town has a lot to offer.

Why Gampalagudem is an Ideal Location for Flats Located along the banks of the Krishna River, Gampalagudem offers a peaceful environment that contrasts the hustle and bustle of urban centers. This proximity to the river ensures scenic beauty and abundant greenery, making it an ideal place for those who want to live in a peaceful, natural setting. The town's serene atmosphere is perfect for families, retirees, and individuals looking for a break from the noise and chaos of larger cities.

Another major benefit of Gampalagudem’s location is its connectivity. The town is well-linked by road to important cities in Andhra Pradesh, such as Vijayawada and Kakinada. This accessibility to major transportation networks makes it easy for residents to commute to nearby urban areas for work, education, and leisure. Additionally, the ongoing improvements to local infrastructure further enhance the town’s appeal, especially for those looking to invest in real estate.

The Growing Real Estate Market In recent years, Gampalagudem has witnessed an increase in demand for residential properties, with a noticeable uptick in flats for sale in Gampalagudem, Andhra Pradesh. This demand is largely driven by factors like the town's affordable property prices, improving connectivity, and the development of new amenities such as schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.

Developers have started recognizing the potential of Gampalagudem’s real estate market and are increasingly investing in residential projects, especially flats and apartments. The availability of flats in various price ranges makes Gampalagudem an attractive option for a wide range of buyers, from young professionals to retirees.

Features of Flats for Sale in Gampalagudem, Andhra Pradesh Flats for sale in Gampalagudem come with a variety of features designed to cater to modern living needs. New developments in the town often include:

Spacious Living Areas: Flats typically offer ample living space, with open-floor layouts that maximize natural light and ventilation. Modern Amenities: Many new residential projects include amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and community halls, which add to the appeal of living in Gampalagudem. Security: Most residential complexes in Gampalagudem come with 24/7 security, CCTV surveillance, and gated entrances, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of residents. Affordable Pricing: Compared to larger cities like Vijayawada or Hyderabad, property prices in Gampalagudem are relatively low, making it an affordable option for many buyers. With the growing number of flats for sale in Gampalagudem, potential buyers can choose from a range of options, from budget-friendly 1BHK apartments to more luxurious 3BHK flats. This diversity in property types ensures that there is something for everyone, no matter their budget or preferences.

Investment Potential One of the most attractive aspects of purchasing a flat in Gampalagudem is the area’s potential for future growth. As the town continues to develop, the real estate market is expected to experience an upward trend, making it an ideal location for long-term investment. Buyers who purchase flats in Gampalagudem today can potentially see significant appreciation in property value as the town continues to attract businesses, residents, and investors.

Furthermore, the steady rise in demand for residential properties in Gampalagudem means that renting out a flat in the future could provide a steady stream of income. This makes Gampalagudem a viable option for investors looking to capitalize on the growing real estate market.

Quality of Life in Gampalagudem Living in Gampalagudem offers a high quality of life. The town is blessed with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere that encourages a slower pace of life. The presence of lush green spaces, water bodies, and the Krishna River makes it an ideal location for nature lovers. The local community is welcoming, and the town has a reputation for being family-friendly, with plenty of parks, recreational areas, and good educational institutions.

Additionally, the increasing number of shops, markets, and local businesses makes it easy for residents to find everything they need within close proximity, further enhancing the overall quality of life.

Conclusion Flats for sale in Gampalagudem, Andhra Pradesh, present an excellent opportunity for homebuyers and investors alike. With its growing real estate market, strategic location, and serene environment, Gampalagudem offers a unique blend of modern living and natural beauty. Whether you are looking to settle down in a peaceful town or invest in a property that promises long-term returns, Gampalagudem should be at the top of your list.

As infrastructure continues to improve, and the demand for flats grows, purchasing property in Gampalagudem is not only a smart decision for today but also a great investment for the future.

[newdelhicarremtals]

Discover the Best Car Rental Services in Delhi for Every Budget

n a bustling city like Delhi, navigating its vibrant streets can be a challenge, especially for visitors who wish to explore the city’s iconic sites at their own pace. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or a resident planning a day trip, finding the best car rental service in Delhi can make all the difference in your experience. This article explores some of the best options for car rentals in Delhi, covering everything from luxury rides to budget-friendly options.

1. Understanding Car Rental Options in Delhi

Delhi offers a wide range of car rental services catering to different needs and budgets. You can find options ranging from premium car rental in New Delhi to affordable, everyday vehicles for those who want to travel comfortably without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to rent a luxury vehicle for a special occasion or an economical option for daily use, Delhi’s car rental companies have something for everyone.

2. Premium Car Rental in New Delhi for Luxury Seekers

For those looking for a high-end experience, premium car rental in New Delhi is a great choice. Luxury vehicles such as BMWs, Audis, and Mercedes-Benz are available for hire, providing both comfort and style. This option is popular among business travelers and individuals attending high-profile events, as these cars come with top-notch amenities, experienced chauffeurs, and impeccable service standards. Most premium car rental providers ensure that their cars are well-maintained, offering a smooth and reliable experience.

3. Affordable Car Rental in New Delhi for Budget-Conscious Travelers

If you’re visiting Delhi on a budget or simply need a practical vehicle to get around, you’ll find plenty of options for affordable car rental in New Delhi. Many companies offer compact cars, sedans, and SUVs at reasonable rates. Budget-friendly car rentals are ideal for those planning sightseeing trips, family outings, or day-to-day commutes without the high price tag. These options often come with flexible rental plans, allowing you to hire the car for a few hours, a day, or even weeks.

4. Benefits of Choosing the Best Car Rental Service in Delhi

Choosing the best car rental service in Delhi goes beyond just finding the right vehicle. Reputable car rental companies in Delhi offer a range of benefits, including:

24/7 Support: Assistance anytime you need it, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience.

Wide Range of Vehicles: From economy cars to luxury SUVs, you have access to a variety of vehicles to suit your needs.

Flexible Rental Terms: Options for hourly, daily, and weekly rentals for convenient planning.

Affordable Rates: Competitive pricing with additional discounts during off-peak seasons.

5. Tips for Hiring a Car in Delhi

If you’re planning to hire a car in Delhi, here are some tips to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable:

Book in Advance: Car rental services are in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred car model and rental rate.

Choose the Right Car Type: Select a vehicle based on your travel needs. Compact cars are ideal for city travel, while SUVs and larger vehicles are suitable for family trips or excursions outside the city.

Check the Rental Agreement: Carefully review the terms and conditions, including fuel policy, mileage limits, and any extra charges.

Opt for a Chauffeur Service if Needed: Navigating Delhi’s traffic can be challenging. If you’re unfamiliar with the city, consider renting a car with a driver for a stress-free experience.

6. Explore Delhi at Your Own Pace

With the convenience of hiring a car in Delhi, you’re free to explore the city’s attractions, from historical monuments like the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb to vibrant shopping districts and hidden culinary gems. Car rentals offer the flexibility to plan your itinerary without the limitations of public transportation schedules.

7. Why Renting a Car in Delhi is a Smart Choice

Renting a car in Delhi offers unmatched convenience and flexibility, allowing you to experience the city on your own terms. Whether you opt for a premium car rental in New Delhi for a luxurious experience or a budget-friendly model for an economical journey, the best car rental services in Delhi ensure you travel comfortably, safely, and affordably. So next time you’re planning a trip around the city, consider renting a car for an experience that matches your style and budget.

[littlebitoffanfic]

Happier

Orc x reader Request: an orc x reader (cause I love your orc stuff). I don’t know what tho, but a nice orc who just wants the reader to be happy but shes a messenger or something so only comes to see him now and again. Maybe the readers attacked by another orc and hes scared it might make her never want to see him again. You sat in the small carriage, watching the area around you, your documents on your lap. You were traveling from the council set up in the mainly human dominated city of Revelanty to the orc dominated town of Arganintia. It was about a days travel by horse drawn carriages so in comparison to the rest of the councils connections, it was relatively close. You worked for the council, whos main aim was to keep peace between towns and races. This extended past just Orcs and Humans. There was Dwarfs, Goblins, Elves, Terants and more. For the most part, most species kept to themselves, often having colonies, towns or tribes that they would stay in, excluding Goblins who liked to rotate their ground and moved to different parts with each season depending on their needs. Humans and Orcs had a slightly different relationship. For the most part, there was peace however, both sides had groups that still harboured resentment over a war that finished just over 200 years ago. For this reason, it was very important to the council to maintain a healthy relationship with the leader of Arganintia. Their leader was a fair and wise one whos name was Arigni. You knew they referred to him as a king and you understood why. You met with him and his own council at least twice a week, discussing many things such as trade deals, land, any issues with residents in either town, it just depends on what the needs are. Arigni had a small council of 4 other Orcs (known as the Kings Trust), who you were proud to say you shared a friendship with. Elekin was an older Orc, with the darkest green skin you had ever seen on a Orc. It was so dark, he could easily be lost in the dark. But he was a nice enough Orc, who had seen one to many battles in his life and had the scars to show it. This didn’t stop him from telling you of his adventures, something you found interesting. Azekin took the longest to warm up to you at first. He was a warrior in every sense of the word and wasted no time in showing someone this. Originally, he had been on the kings guard and raised through the ranks to the kings personal guard as well as a Kings trust. He was the tallest in the Trust by a good foot. All Orcs towered over you, with most standing at 9 foot tall. But combining that with his large, muscly body made him very intimidating. One of his tusks was chipped off the top and he had a number of facial piercings as well as s large, dark beard. You had been fearful of him for the longest time, until one time, he protected you from a angry and rather drunk Orc who resented humans. From then on, he was as much your protector as he was the kings. Gaakt was a close friend of the king, and had earned his way onto the Trust through dedication to the king. He was known for having a silver tongue, something you and him shared. He also seemed to be the one who found out things. If there was so much as a small fight, he knew. He had close connections in the town which meant 9 out of 10 times, it was easy to stop something. Krothu was the brains of the Trust. He was by far the most intelligent Orc you had ever met. He had a deep love for the history of most Humans and Orcs as well as for books. Of everyone, you got on with him the best and most. He was very different to most Orcs you knew, more a gentle giant. Other Orcs showed a lot of aggression and anger. It wasn’t a bad thing, it was just the culture. They would resolve things with fists while Krothu used words. He was big, not as tall as Azekin, but just as muscular. Like most Orcs, he had tattoos, the majority of which was up his right arm and were marking you knew were important to the culture. He had a number of piercings in his ear like many but he kept his facial hair to a minimum. The hair on his head was long, falling in dreadlocks to his shoulders, unlike both Gaakt and Azekin who had rather short but spiked hair. He wore a neckless that was a symbol of the Trust, made up of bones and normally wore shirts unlike the working male orcs in the town who would go topless, much to the pleasure of the Orcess’s. The two of you got along so well, you would now stay with him when you visited, rather than in the kings guest rooms. You were their connection to the main Council and they had a lot of trust in you as you had shown them that you work to help them and make sure they are happy just as much as you did the council. Once, there had been a dispute of an Orc living in Revelanty who had been ambushed by a group of men. For obvious reason, the Orc community had been in uproar about one of their own being injured and demanded blood. The Council had refused to hand the men over to the Orcs which had nearly caused another war, one which was only stopped when you stepped in. You addressed the council while Arigini and the Trust were there. You asked the council what they would expect as a reasonable punishment if you had been attacked while on duty in Arganintia. Of course, the council would have wanted a harsher punishment because you worked for them, but it was through your negotiations (mainly on Arignis side) that the men would serve a life sentence held within the prisons of Verni, known for its strict prisoner ways. From that moment on, you were the Orc Kings courtier in all aspects of relations between the two city’s. Today, you were delivering contracts for the trade of animal stock and the King had asked to speak to you about possible issues regarding a Goblin camp near by. however, it was late and it had been a horrible day. The rain had not stopped since the morning and had added 4 to 5 hours to the journey. It was always agreed that if you arrived after sunset, you could go straight to Krothu’s and rest, the business can always wait till morning. you felt the carriage pull to a steady halt and looked out the window, seeing you were now at his home. He lived a little outside the town, preferring the country to the constant noise of the town. His home was similar to a small cottage and was just a lovely. Grabbing your bags you hopped out the door, seeing the two Orcs, Renti and Krih (brothers) who had driven the carriage about to climb out from their small compartment that covered them from rain. They were always the ones to come and escort you to and from the town, so you knew them well. In fact, you often met with their wife’s for lunch on your free days and enjoyed the company of their family’s. “Do not worry. Go home and dry off. I apologies for the dreadful weather you had to endure for me.” You smiled, reaching into your pocket and pulling out 3 coins each to give to them. They were already paid by the king but you wanted to compensate. Both smile at the gift. “Thanks, always ah pleasure.” Krih smiled, nodding his head before setting off in the carriage. you darted to the door, the documents held close to your chest in one hand and your bag hooked on your elbow. Knocking on the door, you didn’t have to wait long before it was flung open. “[y/n], I feared the storm might have taken you.” A deep but comforting voice spoke, filled with fear as you were pulled inside. “Im sorry. The horses got a fright from the lightening earlier, so we had to stop.” You told him, smiling at how much he worried for you. He returned your smile and you reached up, wrapping your arms around him to greet him with a hug. He was the only Orc you knew who you would hug straight away. With the Trust and king, you would always wait to see if they initiated it first. His tusks rubbed against your shoulder as he returned the greeting, making you smile. At first, you found the tusks very intimidating and rather frightening, but as you got used to the orcs and became friends with many, you found they were a massive part of the culture. Some of the younger Orcs pierced their tusks, but you didn’t really like the idea. As far as you’re understand was of the tusks, they were similar to teeth but didn’t have the same sort of sensitivity, more a mixture of bone and tooth. But you could never have a tooth pierced. pulling back, your bag was taken from your arm and Krathu walked through his home, pacing it in the spare bedroom. His door opened straight into his living area, which was filled with books, maps, documents, etc. He had a bookcase on every wall and in the centre of the room was a couple of comfy chairs, a large sofa and a table. In the fireplace was a fire while was very inviting so you walked over to him, kneeling down in front of the flame to warm up. Your long dress was damp, but not fully wet. “Do you have anywhere I can put these documents?” You asked as he came back. He nodded and was quick to take them and took them through to a room you know to be his study. You watched him leave, biting down on your lower lip. Over the years, you had grown extremely fond of him, more than you cared to tell anyone. It wasn’t unheard-of for humans and orcs to be together in a romantic fashion, but not two so high in the ranks as yourself. Signing to yourself, you started to take off your coat. “Is everything okay?” Krathu asked, his voice making you jump since you didn’t realise he had came back. You pulled your coat back on, but you didn’t know why. You were staying the night. “Of course.” You smiled, getting to your feet as he approached you. He walked around you, his large fingers reaching up and hooking under the collar of your coat, pulling it up and off your shoulder. You allowed the clothing to fall, smiling at his gentle nature as he took the coat and hung it up to dry. For the next hour, you settled in. You went and changed your dress and when you returned, there was a lovely smelling coming from the kitchen. Curiously, you followed your nose to see a hot bowl of stew on the kitchen table, a spoon at the side and Krath setting a glass of water down on the table. He looked up at you and you jumped. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb your dinner. I shall be in my room.” You nodded and started to back to your room when a loud laugh filled your ears and an arm was wrapped around your waist, lifting you up and carrying you back through to the kitchen. “Its your dinner, not mine.” Kruth laughed as he sat you down in the chair. You couldn’t help but smile as you ate the stew, savouring every mouthful. He was good to you, very good in fact. Better than any man had ever been. And as you ate, you couldn’t help but glance over to him, wondering if his kindness towards you was purly political. Or if he cared for you as deeply as you did for him. ------------------time skip -------------------- It had been another long day. You and Krath had left just after sunrise and been in meeting after meeting. The rest of the council had been happy you had made it safely and securely to the kingdom but also feared for your return to your home. The storm had only gotten worse, so you decided to go and see Krih and his wife, Freha, to see if he’d be okay in delaying your return. Krath had had to finish some work up with the king so stayed and agreed to meet you at his house again later for supper. it was just after dark when you turned the corner, seeing Krih and Frehas home at the end of the street. But before you could smile and head there, large hands grabbed your arms and you were pulled into a back alley. “Disgusting human.” A voice snarled in your ear as you struggled against the darkess holding you. “Freha!” You cried out just as a large hand clamped over your mouth. He manged to hold both your hands behind your back as the free one covered your mouth. “Shut up!” It snarled and you managed to turn your head to a large orc towering over you, his eyes bringing with a fresh hatred for you. You struggled against him as you tried to scream out into the night, hoping that someone might hear you. “Filthy human. In my town.” He grunted, his voice low and rough as he pulled you further into the alley way. His hand let go of your arms just as the hand which covered your mouth darted to your neck and wrapped around it easily, squeezing hard. Your air was cut off and you used your hands to try and pry at his hand. Trying to get him to release you. but as he did this, he lifted you off the ground easily. Your legs were kicking helplessly below you. You saw something come around the side of your head and it glinted in the moon light. A knife. You screamed into his hand, panic finally setting in as you started to move as far away from the knife as possible. You shook your head, your eyes welling with tears as you gasped and gagged for air but nothing came. The knife moved closer to your chest, closer to where your heart was. He moved the knife so the point was pointing at you, then he raised it to the skin of your cheek and started to dig it in. Not by much. Not enough to pierce right through your cheek but enough to draw blood. “Human skins so easy to pierce.” He chuckled evilly in your ear. As you tried to pull the knife away, you slashed the palm of your right hand open but he merely cackled. He moved the knife down about 2 inches before pulling it away, the fresh cut on your cheek pulsing with pain as your tears hit it. He then moved the blade over the skin over your collar bone, which was only just visible from your dress. To left another wound, this time 4 or 5 inches. You closed your eyes for a moment until you felt the knife slash at your left side just below your ribs, cutting your dress and the skin underneath. Once again, not enough to kill or even be a threat, but enough to hurt and make you want to cry out in more pain. Then he brought the knife back to your heart. this was it. He was going to kill you. you scrambled even harder but your movements were becoming limp. The blood from your palm now covered your jaw and his hand as you tried to pry it away and failed. “[y/n]!” A voice from the end of the alley way and you looked up to see Freha standing with her hands covering her mouth. Then there was a loud “Thwack” from behind you and you were dropped to the ground. You gasped for air, rolling onto your back as sobs left your throat from the pain you were in. Your whole body felt like it was numb and you couldn’t do anything but scream as you tried to process what was happeniend. Your side and hand were on fire and you thought you might pass out from everything. “Shhh honey, its okay. You’re safe now.” You heard Freha hush as she appeared above you, falling to her knees and pulling your head onto her lap. Her eyes were filled with tears. You looked to where your attacker had been to see him now lying on the ground, unconscious, Krih behind him with a large club. You managed to sit yourself up a little, scrambling closer to Freha who wrapped her arms around you. “Hey! You okay down there?” “Whats all this noise?” “Whats going on?” A new voice called from the end of the alley at both sides. “Go get Kruth and the rest of the council. [y/n]’s been attacked!” Krih called out, his voice shaking as he dropped the bat to run over to you. “We gotta get her to a medic.” He mumbled, his eyes falling on your cuts and your throat which must have had bruising on it. “No, not yet. The council will need to see her first. And shes been through enough right now. She needs orcs she can trust right now. I’ll take her back to ours. Help me?” Freha knew exactly what you needed and knew you were too weak to stand by yourself. Krih nodded and moved to pick you up like a bride. You managed to catch a look at your body as he did so. You had blood splattered across your light blue dress. A number looked like hand prints from your slashed hand and there was a substantial pool of blood around the cut at the bottom of your ribs. You were starting to feel tiered and were extremely weak so your head just lolled back as you were lifted bridal style. You were carried out the alley and you saw there was a number of orcs had come out their houses and now were watching you, their eyes wide and some even covering their mouth. “Who could have done this to her?” Some male orc mumbled. “Poor wee thing.” A older female orc shook her head and you saw her walk to Freha who followed her husband. The old orc asked if she needed any help and this prompted a lot of the orcs to ask the same thing, but Freha shook her head, explaining what she had said to Krih a second ago. You looked behind you and Krih and saw two orcs hauling your unconscious attacker from the alley way and throwing him ungracefully into the road. “Tie his hands behind his back. Make sure he doesn’t get away!” Krih called over his shoulder as he came to his house. Freha darted in front of you both to open the door to their house. Once inside, he lay you on the table. You tried to sit up but Freha put her hands on your shoulders and gently pushed you back down. “You gotta rest, sweetie. We’ll take care of you. I promise.” She took your hand and squeezed it. “Thank you.” You said in a weak voice as Krih walked back out the house, most likely to deal with your attacker. You closed your eyes, allowing yourself to try and calm down while Freha ran up stairs and grabbed a pillow and cover. You were covered with the thin blanket and she lifted your hair to slip the pillow under your neck. Then she got to work with warm water and cleaned your cuts which stung but you managed to supress your cries. “Im only gonna clean you up just now. Im sorry, honey. But the councils coming. And they’ll have to see how bad it was.” She spoke with an air of guilt but you just shook your head a little and smiled despite the pain. “Thank you. you saved me.” You opened your eyes to look at her. “Of course! You’re like my family.” She sat down at a chair and took your good hand in both of hers, leaning her head against your hand. “You’re my sister.” You mumbled, smiling and squeezing her hand. She really was. You and her had grown very very close over the last few years. “And you are mine.” She smiled softly. For a while, the two of you spoke, mainly so she could make sure you were still awake. There was a crowd gathered outside the house and it sounded like it was getting aggressive. For a while, you thought (dreaded) it was anger at you. but then Krih came in and said the street was angry they weren’t allowed to attack your attacker. it must have only been 10 minutes later when you heard the crowd become quiet and the kings voice sounded frantic. “Where is she?” Someone must have told him where you were because just as Freha stood up the door was swung open. Arigni, Elekin, Azekin, Gaakt and Krath stormed in but once inside, they froze. Their eyes fell on your body, which was still weak and you knew you wouldn’t be able to sit up properly. If you weren’t feeling as weak, you might have felt embarrassed. You had always tried your best to be strong in front of them, show them you were a force to be reckoned with and that you could be relied on. but now, all you could do was close your eyes and turn your head from then, tears starting to burn again. “I’ll kill that orc!” Azekin growled, his voice at a level of anger and rage you had never heard before. “No! He will face justice, that much is certain. But right now, we have to tend to her.” Arigni voice was strong and held the weight to stop one of his greatest warriors from running out the door with an axe. “How bad is it?” “Pretty bad, your highness. We heard her shout and ran out. He’d pulled her down an alley way and was holding her up by her neck like a doll. He’d cut her several times at her side, hand face and he had the knife ready to pierce her heart when I saw them. God, he was strangling her! He knew either way she’d be dead. Didn’t think I’ll ever forget how her body dropped to the floor. Lifeless. Thought she were dead!” Freha breaks down and starts to sob. Your eyes open wide. You had never seen her cry. Like many Orcess, she was strong and tough, but now she was weeping by your side. you reached out and took her hand again which she must have dropped when they came in. squeezing her hand, you smiled at her. “Im not.” You managed to say, your voice horse from being strangled. “Can you sit up, little one?” Elekin appeared beside you, making you jump a little. You didn’t answer but made the effort to try. Letting go of Freha hand, you tried to push yourself up, but there was a sharp pain from the gasp on your stomach, which made you cry out in pain and squeeze your eyes shut. Two set of hands support your back, Freha and Elekin. Slowly, they lowered you back down. “I’ll take her back to mine. She needs to rest.” Kruthus voice was shaking and sounded extremely strained, making you look over at him. “allow me a few minutes to dress the wounds first.” Freha didn’t ask, she told them. During this time, she showed the full extent of your injuries to the king and his council. You moved between having your eyes open and closing them over when pain or embarrassment was too much. But you noticed one thing. Kruthus eyes kept trailing back to your neck. You knew there would be bruising there, and in the shape of a hand. Once you were wrapped up, you started to sit up but were then scooped into large, muscular arms. “Im sure I can walk.” You tried to protest, but you were tiered and weak, so it came out as more of a whimper. “Im sure you can. But I can not allow it.” Kruthu spoke with a gentle kindness in his voice that made you smile and lay you head on his shoulder. He had always smelled to you like home. You could never quite put you finger on what it was, but you didn’t mind. He carried you outside and into a carriage that was directly outside the door. You were too weak to say goodbye but felt Freha quickly take your hand and squeeze it reassuringly. It seemed the council were going to stay and interrogate the orc who had attacked you, so it was only you and Kruthu in the carriage. He never put you down, instead having you on his lap. “Are we going home?” you asked, your eyes falling shut as you tried to fight the sleepy feeling, but you could tell it was winning. “No, I can arrange for you to travel home tomorrow but-“ He started but you let out a small giggle. “No, no, no. I mean your home.” You chuckled to yourself, shaking your head slightly as you looked up at him. A soft smile dawned his handsome features. “Yes, we’re going home.” He smiles down at you. For the brief moment before you nodded off, you weren’t in pain anymore. You couldn’t be, not when he smiled at you like that. ---------------------time skip------------------------ You woke and it was still dark. The door to your bedroom was open and the only light was from the soft fire in the living room. Sitting up, you noticed your side didn’t hurt nearly as much as you had remembered it. You were also in a nightgown and with a new quilt over your bed. It was one you recognised as Frehas one she used. It was a tradition in their house that when one of the children were ill or sick, they go this blanket and it helped them get better. But something drew you out of the bed and towards the door. In the living room was Kruthu. He stood over his dining table which was covered in books. All lying open and overlapping each other. A disgruntled sign left his lips as he leaned over them, searching multiple books for an answered he seemed not to be able to find. “Kruthu?” You called out his name softly, not wanting to startle him but you didn’t have the desired effect. Instead he jumped, a book he had been holding seeming to jump from his grip and land on the floor with a bang. “You’re awake.” He looked at you like you were a ghost before moving quickly across the room to you. “You shouldn’t be up. You need to rest.” but as he drew closer, he stopped himself before he was within a metres distance from you. You repeated his name, stepping closer to him, unsure why he had stopped. When you had fallen ill a few years ago, he had ushered you back to bed with a hand gently on your back. Even when he brought you here, in was in the embrace of his arms. Something you sorely needed right now but couldn’t ask for. Your cheeks suddenly felt like they were on fire and you were unable to hold his gaze. But your reaction seemed to be one he fear. Kruthu backed away from you. “I am deeply sorry.” He said, his voice deep and sounding pained. But your gaze snapped up to him. Looking up, you saw he hung his head, his shoulders hunching over themselves. “Why?” you asked, completely confused by his actions. “I could never hurt you. I just want you to know that.” He speaks to the floor before retreating to his room quickly and closing the door over. “I know.” You said to the empty room, your brows knitted together with confusion. Deciding to investigate, you cross over to the table. All the books that were overflowing the table were books of law. Both human and Orc law. Btu they were all opened ot assault, battery and grievous body harm and the minimum sentencing for these. The worse sentence seemed to be 5 years within a prison. You cheeks flared up with rage. Surly the orc who had attacked you would get longer than that?! Looking at the floor, you picked up the book. Kruthu had marked the page he had been on by folding the corner of it down, so you found it quite quickly. The page read that if a member of the royal council or a significant other was assaulted or feared for their life, then the sentencing could be increased to whatever the party deemed necessary. Technically, you weren’t part of the council so you were confused when you re read the page. Until your eyes fell on one part in particular. Significant other. A partner, wife, husband, lover or engaged to. It didn’t matter. It would give the king the fullest power to punish your attacker and get you justice. But there was a flaw in that idea. Looking down, you noticed a letter under a book. The letter was from Freha. You skimmed over the letter before a passage caught your eye. “she adores you. It could not be a lie if you speak to her and tell her the truth. Shes stronger than you think. You could simply say it was kept a secret because of the positions you both hold in the court. I would testify as a witness and say she had told me in confidence. I can assure you that her feeling towards our race and towards you will not change. Her confidence might be knocked, but she is far too kind for her own good sometimes. Your worries are misplaced. You have said yourself that your love for her has grown. The council can see that, as can the people. No one would think twice if it came out that you and she were courting.” You blinked quickly. There was more to the letter but you could barely read it. You needed to speak to Kruthu. Placing the letter down, you walked over to his bedroom and knocked on the door before walking in. It was more of a warning than a request. This took him by surprise because he had been sitting on his bed, with his head in his hands but once you entered, he sprung up. “I know you would never hurt me.” You smiled, standing directly in front of him as you reach out to cup his cheek. You ran your thumb under his eye which showed he was very tired. his eyes fluttered close at your touch, seemingly reviling in the soft moment. he rose his own hand to cover your hand before moving it to kiss your palm and then back to his cheek. “would you have thought of marrying me? Before all this?” You ask, drawing his eyes open to look up at you. “I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t.” He breathed, as if scared of how you might respond. “And you’d never lie to me.” You smiled, saying it more as a statement than a question. “Never.” Kruthu shook his head a single time, looking up at you. “Good.” You smile, as you slide down so you were perched on his right knee. He instantly wrapped his free arm around your waist to keep your steady. “I’d never lie to you.” “I know.” Kruthu smiled with a sense of pride as he looked at you. “So, the letter? Will you explain it?” you ask, cocking your head to the side as you pull your hand away for his cheek but quickly take his hand that had been covering your and holding it on your lap. “I don’t think an orc as been so hated by its own kind in a while. But theres only so much we can do legally. Since you’re human.” He looks away, seeming embarrassed to have to point this out. “And if I were courting you?” You ask, ducking your head to guide his eyes back to your own. “The full powers of the sentencing could be enforced.” He tells you. “And it would certainly improve relations between orcs and humans. Since word of what happened to me and what the council did would earn great respect from them.” You nod a little. “Theres only one problem.” Kruthu says, making you frown a little. “What?” you ask. “I need to know you would want this, regardless of whats happened. I cannot bare to force you to stay with me. I adore you, [y/n], and I would certainly do everything in my power to be a good husband for you. but I need to know you would want this.” He spoke with a sort of desperate desire as he held you a little tighter than he had before. his eyes begged you for an answer. “I’ll always want you.” You whisper to him, finally voicing a secret you had kept to yourself for a long time. Kruthus breath hitched as he stared at you in awe before leaning forward and pressing his lips to yours in a desperate kiss. You wrapped your arms around his broad shoulders, holding him close and you kissed him back with equal passion and desire. After that day, it was told that Kruthu had been courting you for a while. May vouched for your closeness and how they believed you. You moved to be with Kruthu, as a permanent member of the kings council, in charge of human relations and business deals. And you found a loving and doting husband, who adored you to the moon and back. That orc had tried to take your life, but he had actually given you everything you ever wanted. And you had never been happier.

[ask-duck-season]

How do all the Rents celebrate their Vrgls' birthday???

(Well, here's Classic Rent.

Button is too afraid of his Vrgl to do so

Red... well in the past it would be just like any other day but that's starting to change

Time will of course throw the Overseer the best party he could with whatever he has.

MC and the other literature club members have, like, cupcakes or something

Roger's probably like Classic.

Rentie makes his best attempt to make Vrsei a cake and calls him toothpaste boy

Copy doesn't have a Vrgl. He's just a Copy. Nothing else.

[fiorello]

Urban Chic Wedding

Yes, you can have a super Urban Chic Wedding downtown Athens. Vassiliki and Dimitris’ wedding is the living example of an extraordinary & unconventional wedding in the center of Athens.

This kind of modern wedding is a beautiful experience for every photographer. It takes tones of inspiration and courage to have an urban chic wedding… You see this styling has been growing in popularity only for the last couple of years.

It features a more personalized and intimate wedding experience. When a couple is determined to enjoy their wedding day, absolutely nothing can stop them. Vassiliki and Dimitris showed me the depth of their unique love and their amazing character during their pre-wedding photo shoot in the Central Market of Athens. Both are truly street food lovers, something that was apparent from the location it was chosen to do their engagement session. I should remind you that burgers were involved!

If there is a will to turn tables then there is a way to do it. There colorful pre-wedding photoshoot, in the center of the open food market at Rentis, was jaw-dropping and joyful. I love people who dare to be open minded and ready to jump into an out of the box approach of a photography session. I love diversity and individuality!

[fandomshatewomen]

Did you guys here about what's going on with Jameela Jamil? She's out here trying and fighting against Q/uinten T!renti/o for casting the man who almost murdered her good friend via strangulation and there are actually [mostly white] women out here defending that monster [both the guy and director].

omg WTF, good for Jameela for speaking up. I’ve got something coming up about it in the queue.

#StopHiringViolentMen2k18

~Mod S

[alamakuki]

WHO AM I

Siapakah aku ? di usia sekarang yang sudah kepala 4, pertanyaan tersebut sepertinya terlalu aneh ditanyakan. Seharusnya saya sudah paham betul siapa saya dan apa yang ingin dan harus saya lakukan. Saya bukan ABG yang sedang mencari jati diri.

Tapi bukan berarti saya tidak boleh terus mencari. Bahkan orang-orang besar menemukan “dirinya” di usia yang sangat matang. Nabi Muhammad SAW menerima wahyu pertama di usia 40 tahun, Abah Rama Royani menemukan dirinya setelah 27 tahun menjadi direktur, saat beliau menyadari bahwa pekerjaan saat itu tidak sesuai dengan bakatnya. Hingga beliau menemukan Talents Mapping dan bisa membantu banyak orang menemukan “dirinya”

Melanjutkan tulisan saya sebelumnya, kali ini saya mengulas siapa “diri” saya setelah , mengikuti talents mapping dari Renti’s Corner bersama Teh Dian.

Dari 34 tema bakat yang diuraikan pada Talents Mapping, saya mempunyai potensi dengan 7 urutan teratas berikut :

1. Emphaty

2. Connectedness

3. Intelection

4. Analytical

5. Individualization

6. Arranger

7. Communicator

Hmm... ternyata saya mempunyai emphaty dan connectedness yang tinggi. Emphaty artinya saya mampu merasakan perasaan orang lain seakan-akan mengalaminya sendiri atau dengan bahasa sehari –hari saya adalah orang yang baperan xixixi. Jangan ditanya bagaimana wajah saat melihat film keluarga dengan genre drama keluarga hehehe.

Connectedness artinya saya mampu dan senang mengaitkan peristiwa satu dengan peristiwa lainnya. Something happen for a reason, kira-kira begitulah. Tidak ada yang kebetulan.

Pada urutan berikutnya ada Intelection dan Analytical, dan ini cukup membantu bakat pertama dan kedua. Sehingga saya bisa baper pada tempatnya, dan saat mengaitkan beberapa peristiwa yang saya alami berdasarkan analisa logis dan hanya percaya pada fakta.

Selanjutnya ada bakat Individualization, Arranger dan Comunicator. Menurut Teh Dian, 3 bakat ini akan membantu peran saya sebagai Kahima IP Kediri Raya. Saya mampu melihat potensi seseorang dan menempatkannya sesuai dengan potensi yang dimiliki. Ini akan menutupi bakat Command yang tidak terlalu kuat.

Cara paling sederhana mensyukuri nikmat bakat yang diberikan Allah SWT adalah dengan memanfaatkan sebaik-baiknya bakat tersebut. Kita tidak sempurna, tapi kita istimewa dengan bakat yang kita miliki.

#1dekadeibuprofesional

#KelasLiterasiIbuProfesional

#ibuprofesional2021

#ibuprofesionalforindonesia

#semestakaryauntukindonesia

#womenincooLABoration

#IP4ID2022

#klip2022mengantarcahaya

[studiokaka]

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A post shared by STUDIO KAKA ART by Vickie Liu (@studio_kaka)

🌸 FINISHING TOUCH ✨ Always feels good to add that final layer of varnish to a painting to really make it SHINE 💖 This floral painting was a wedding bouquet commission 🎉 Get in touch if you’d like to have your own bouquet painted. I’d love to paint something special for you! 🌸 www.studiokaka.art/shop . . . . . #floralart #floralpaintings #floralartwork #flowerpreservation #preservingflowers #preservedflowerarrangement #paintedmemories #anniversarygifts #weddinggifting #custompainted #commissionsareopen #sydneymade #custombouquet #weddingbouqet #weddingbouquetideas #weddingflowerideas #paintingflowers #contemporaryartwork #birthdaygiftsforher #specialgifts #handmadegiftideas #handmadeaus #australianmade #botanicalgifts #bloomsoftheday #timelapsepainting #paintingnature #progressvideo https://www.instagram.com/reel/CSJL-renTi-/?utm_medium=tumblr

[passionatewayhorsemanshipllc]

The Big White Barn

I had moved to New York about a year before I moved into my second barn. I had a client that I traveled to after the horses went home from training. I would go there once a week and spend time teaching riding lessons to the oldest daughter. In my hour drive to that client’s home, I would drive past a big white barn. It was an interesting barn with a huge barrel roof. It seemed vacant or even abandoned as there was a spot that once held a sign but was nothing more than posts in the ground any longer. There was a hand written “For Sale by Owner” sign nailed to one of the posts.

One day I brought Lisa with me up to my client’s resort-like farm. As we passed The Big White Barn, I pointed out how much I was interested in it. I don’t necessarily think in that moment I meant that I was interested in renting or buying it, I think I more meant that I was interested in it’s story or something. It was just a unique looking barn. The overgrown lawn, and almost sad way it was standing there, just caught my eye.

It turned out that Lisa knew who the owner actually was. She had even kept a horse there at one time, with a previous tenant. That opened about an hour of conversation about the place, the owner, what it was like in the old days and just different aspects of it. See, it was an old dairy barn, so I actually had no reason to even believe it to be equipped with horse stalls. The barn just caught my eye as interesting. In fact, I think I admired it for at least six months before I pointed it out to Lisa.

On the drive home from my client’s farm, Lisa mentioned that she even knew where the owner lived. I am not at all the type that just pops by someone’s home that I know, let alone a total stranger. Plus, what would have inspired me to go to this man’s home anyway? I had a beautiful barn with tons of amenities. This place was not run down necessarily, but certainly in need of some awakening.

For whatever reason, when Lisa said the man lived about two miles down the road, if I turned left at the stop sign. I turned. I had nothing rehearsed, nor did I even know why I was going to meet the owner. I was almost being driven there by some other energy. I followed it, whatever it was and ended up in the owner’s driveway. Without hesitation, we got out and walked right up to the door and knocked.

John, who had just turned 70, was the owner. His wife Claire answered the door and excitedly invited us in. I’m sure they didn’t know Lisa personally, as there was no recognition of her, but they did recognize the name she offered them for who she boarded with back when. 

We were invited to go inside and sit with them at their kitchen table. Again, I swear, I had no idea what I was even doing there. I had no plan, or even thought of the place, other than I thought it was an interesting looking barn. I have no idea why, but I started to talk with John as if I was negotiating a rental agreement. I inquired on his price and what it might entail as far as amenities. Then I remember even feeling like I was begging him to let me rent it. Apparently it had been vacant for two years due to bad past tenants. He was renting the outside to a young lady who was kind of a left over from the tenants that did so much damage.

We were given permission to go look at the place so we did. I want to say that only Lisa and I went alone, I don’t think John came with us. Lisa spent some time showing me around, walking down a memory lane a bit. When we opened the main barn, I was in awe! You would have never known it was as nice as it was, from the outside. Talk about a hidden gem. 

After we toured the place and talked about possibilities, I told Lisa I was not going to take no for an answer. There was an apartment that I was going to give Lisa and she could manage that barn as I continued to live and run the other barn. I was dreaming with so much inspired thought that there was nothing stopping me. We went back to John’s. I stayed until I talked him into renting me the barn. John had been burned so bad by previous people that he was not interested in renting it to anyone. I just wouldn’t take no for an answer. 

A few weeks later, I was trailering a couple of my horses over to stay the weekend. See, one of the greatest appeals was that I wasn’t restricted to using the turnout space. At the farm I had been renting for a year by then, I was not allowed to put my horses outside in wet conditions. I was only able to take them into the indoor arena and RUN them for a half an hour a day. I even started taking them up to the indoor in the middle of the night to give them more time to stretch. So a place that I could just let them be outside and be horses had such an amazing appeal to me. I planned to use The Big White Barn like a retreat or something for my horses. I wasn’t otherwise sure what I had planned for that 26 stall barn on 65 acres…:)

After ten months of trying to make something happen, business-wise, at the Big White Barn, I decided that it was not going to happen. I had thought, based on how busy the road was, that it would have been easy to attract boarders at least. I was wrong. The barn sat in the middle of a commuter trail, but not many people actually lived RIGHT there. So, yes, a lot of people drove by, but many lived considerably farther away than where the barn was located. I believe that I also over priced the board based on what I was able to ask for at the other barn. So, needless to say, I told John that I loved having the barn, but since I really wasn’t getting anything going there, I was going to return to having only one barn. I had found that the twelve miles between barns twice a day was a bigger drain on me as well. It just made sense to no longer try to maintain two barns just to have a “retreat”.

About two months after I closed my doors at the Big White Barn, I received a phone call from Claire. She had called to invite me out to dinner with John and her. She said that they had really appreciated me as a tenant and that they just wanted to do a little something for me for having been such a good tenant. What??? Who does that? I was gone for two months and I should have been “out of sight, out of mind” right? Wow, I was so honored to have been asked that I accepted.

The dinner was simply a “thank you”. They took me to a really nice place, just the three of us and told me to order anything I wanted on the menu. They literally took me out to dinner to thank me for having treated them well. I felt so amazingly special that night.

A few days after the lovely dinner with John and Claire, I decided that I might not have wanted to try to maintain two barns, but that I would consider just one. I had wanted to be where people cared about me like that! I knew I was giving up a lot of really great amenities and that it was a facility sacrifice, but the love I felt from those people made it such a no brainer. 

I met with the owners of the farm that I had rented for two years and told them that I would be moving out in the next thirty days. At first it seemed to anger them, but after they found another tenant interested in moving from another barn they already rented from them, things seemed fine.

At the end of the thirty days I had been pretty much all moved over. The apartment that I had planned to have Lisa use, had never been moved into by Lisa. It had turned out that she just went back and forth from another town. That too had been one of the deciding factors as to why I closed up The Big White Barn. I didn’t know Lisa never moved in, until we had snow yet no evidence of her truck having been parking there. She never told me that she didn’t move in. John had even asked about getting the heat turned on for her and she claimed that she was just happy to use a space heater. I thought it was a financial thing, not that she wasn’t actually staying there. The nice part of all that, when it came to my moving everything to The Big White Barn, was that the apartment that John went all out redoing for us to move in a year earlier was just as brand new as when he did the work. 

Since the barn had not been used in so long, there was a horrible sulfur smell in the water. I mean rotten eggs that made your stomach turn. It was terrible. My mother had lived in a lake home with that same type of water, so I was prepared to buy bottled water. I knew from having visited my mother’s in an overnight guest capacity, that sulfur water was safe to shower in, so I was ok with it…Sort of!

In conversation with a friend, I mentioned the water. He told me that he thought he heard that you could get rid of that smell by running the HOT water for like thirty minutes. He also said I could change the basic shower head with one that had a filter to try to filter out some of the smell. I was willing to try anything. I ran the water for forty-five minutes, two days in a row. The smell seemed to begin to dissipate so I did run out to get a new shower head. After about a week, I had fixed the water issue. I couldn't have been happier!!! 

Business picked up and things started to really unfold for me enough that I didn’t miss the awesome amenities of the other farm as much as I thought I would. I built an arena, taking sand from a sand bank right on John’s other piece of land attached to mine. I built a round pen and really made the place a fully functional training and riding facility. One thing I really did miss though, was the ability to ride around a fence line. There were driveways that went all about the other property that I would either ride or hand walk my horses on. THAT was something I missed. With all the freedom I did have here, to kind of tailor the place for my needs, I build an electric tri-paddock that saved me twenty-eight feet of space all the way around for that riding path. Now, other than not having an indoor, I was complete! 

I saw this interesting Big White Barn in my travels. I mentioned it to someone who happened to know the owner and where he lived. I was drawn to inquire and essentially beg to rent it. I moved in and moved out. I was shown such a gesture of appreciation that I moved back in. I took over the maintenance and made it everything I wanted it to be. I’m so glad the universe kept having me pass through that route. It’s amazing where life takes us when we just enjoy the journey! 

[duaneodavila]

Is “Papa Renty” Harvard’s Last Slave?

While Tamara Lanier, of Norwich, Connecticut, sent a letter to then-Harvard president, Drew Faust, in 2011, explaining how she comes to the claim of lineage, the content of the letter remains unknown. She calls him her great great great grandfather. She calls him “Papa Renty.” She claims to know his story. It’s possible she does, though it’s unlikely.

Renty, along with his daughter Delia, were slaves in South Carolina. They were the subjects of nude photographs by a Harvard biologist, Louis Agassiz, who was engaged in “research” to prove the inferiority of the race.

At the center of the case is a series of 1850 daguerreotypes, an early type of photo, taken of two South Carolina slaves identified as Renty and his daughter, Delia. Both were posed shirtless and photographed from several angles. The images are believed to be the earliest known photos of American slaves.

They were commissioned by Harvard biologist Louis Agassiz, whose theories on racial difference were used to support slavery in the U.S. The lawsuit says Agassiz came across Renty and Delia while touring plantations in search of racially “pure” slaves born in Africa.

The images disappeared, until they were rediscovered in 1976 in the attic of Harvard University’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. According to a suit Lanier is bringing against Harvard, the college profits off her ancestor.

The lawsuit argues that Harvard has used the Renty images to “enrich itself.” The image is on the the cover of a 2017 book, “From Site to Sight: Anthropology, Photography and the Power of Imagery,” published by the Peabody Museum and sold online by Harvard for $40.

The photo also was displayed on the program for a 2017 conference that Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute for Advance Study hosted on the school’s relationship with slavery.

According to Lanier’s attorneys, Harvard requires that people sign a contract in order to view the photos and pay a licensing fee to the university to reproduce the images.

The relief sought by Lanier includes damages as well as Harvard’s public condemnation of Agassiz, as well as its recognition in its complicity with slavery.

Agassiz’s legacy still lives on at Harvard. He founded the school’s Museum of Comparative Zoology, and his wife, Elizabeth Cary Agassiz, also a Harvard researcher of natural history, was founder and the first president of Radcliffe College, now the Society for the Collegiate Instruction of Women. A street in Cambridge is named after Agassiz, and so is a Harvard theater, the Agassiz House.

The claim is founded on the photographs having been taken without Renty’s consent, which seems likely given that slaves were chattel, not persons. But her attorney, Benjamin Crump, offers a more visceral challenge to Harvard.

Crump, her attorney, added that the case could allow Harvard to “remove the stain from its legacy” and show it has the courage “to finally atone for slavery.”

And even more pointedly:

“When will they not condone slavery and finally free Renty? Because their actions denote something different than what they might say,” Crump said.

“Free Renty” is the sort of slogan that could resonate, particularly given that it’s not too long for Harvard students to remember. But is there a cause of action? Is there a remedy? Is there standing?

Lanier said she began studying her family’s ancestry after her mother died in 2010 to follow up on family stories she heard about Papa Renty. She worked with Boston genealogist Chris Child, who is known for tracing ancestors of Barack Obama, according to a 2018 article in the Norwich Bulletin.

According to the newspaper, Lanier said she can trace her great-grandfather, named Renty Taylor and then Renty Thompson, to a plantation near Columbia, South Carolina, owned by Benjamin Franklin Taylor. This is where the photos are believed to have been taken.

This may well be as strong a claim as history permits, even if there might also be others with as much of a claim as Lanier. But it’s still substantially shy of proof, despite the best of efforts. Is the failure of evidence to be forgiven or overlooked, given the circumstances? After all, it certainly isn’t Lanier’s, or Papa Renty’s, fault that he was a slave and lineage is unprovable by the ancient records that might otherwise exist.

Then again, the suit isn’t relying exclusively on evidence and the dearth thereof.

The suit alleges that “by contesting Ms. Lanier’s claim of lineage, Harvard is shamelessly capitalizing on the intentional damage done to black Americans’ genealogy by a century’s worth of policies that forcibly separated families, erased slaves’ family names, withheld birth and death records, and criminalized literacy.”

The thrust of the attack is “evidence plus shaming,” as it appears unlikely that this suit would have any chance of surviving a motion to dismiss, both on standing as well as the cause of action. But can the “Free Renty” mantra do enough harm to the woke sensibilities the college to push it over the edge, to get Harvard to acquiesce to the less-than-proven lineage and the less-than-sound claim that a slave, chattel under the law of the day, failed to consent?

“Most importantly, I want the true story of who Renty is to be told. That’s all I’ve ever asked for.”

Of course, nothing prevents Lanier from doing so, now, then or in the future. She can tell the story of the man she believes, with all sincerity, is her great-great-great-grandfather. She doesn’t need Harvard to acquiesce to her demands of recognition to do so. As of now, it appears Harvard isn’t incline to cave.

The Bulletin quoted Pamela Gerardi, the Peabody Museum’s director of external relations, who described the photos last year as “extremely delicate” and well cared for.

“We anticipate they will remain here in perpetuity,” she said at the time. “That’s what museums do.”

Then again, the same could be said of much of the physical manifestations of history, such as statues of the once-revered which have since been torn down and destroyed. But if shaming Harvard works, and the college ultimately accommodates the demands, even settles for a sum of money, will history be “fixed” and Renty be freed?

There is no doubt that Harvard, like so many institutions and people at the time, engaged in practices that are anathema today. These daguerreotypes show it, whether Renty is Lanier’s ancestor or not. Would conceding to Lanier’s demands suffice for Harvard to atone for its sins or open a wound that will bleed in perpetuity because, for better or worse, history can’t be undone no matter how harsh the rhetoric of shame?

Is “Papa Renty” Harvard’s Last Slave? republished via Simple Justice

[theokbrowne]

AGENT SPOTLIGHT | MEET OUR LOS FELIZ AGENT, JASMINE!

THE RENTAL GIRL PRESENTS: AGENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet our Los Feliz Leasing Agent, Jasmine Ward.

Jasmine sits down to chat about what she loves most about her neighborhood and working at The Rental Girl.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I’m a so-cal native that primarily grew up in the desert! I have two younger brothers. I served 6 years in the Air Force and left to attend Fashion School. I wrote for a few fashion magazines before finding my love for real estate! I’ve been part of The Rental Girl team since 2014 and am so grateful! I just finished my first book…a memoir and sci-fi thriller that I hope to share next year. 

What’s your favorite aspect of being a realtor?

I get to see amazing and unique homes! Each property has its own story and energy. When I walk into them, I get a little piece of its history and am given the opportunity to be apart of its future and potentiality. 

What’s your all-time favorite spot in Los Feliz?

There’s no way I can choose one! I like to go to Skylight Books for unique reads, Bearded Beagle for vintage gems, and as of lately, WKNDR is curing all my cravings. 

How would you describe Los Feliz?

Los Feliz was the first neighborhood I fell in love with when I moved to L.A.  It’s this pocket of the city that holds some of L.A’s oldest gems, best stories, hidden treasures, and a magical history. Each street is captivating in its own way. There’s nothing bland, forced or unoriginal about it. It has all the qualities we like about a small town, while still giving you big city flare. It’s one of my favorite places… in the world!

If your neighborhood was on a dating app, who would be the perfect match to move into the hood?

I think she’d like to settle down with someone who is creative, easy going, humble, hard-working, positive energy, and cultured.

What is something that most people don’t know about you? 

That I’m a veteran. 

How long have you lived in LA? 

6 years. 

What’s on your LA Bucket List this year?

The Price is Right! I’ve been preparing since I was 6,  I’m ready!

What’s your biggest piece of advice for someone interested in applying to a property you’re leasing?

Be friendly! Friendliness goes a long way.  Above all, most owners want a courteous and respectful tenant living in their home. The act of renting a home can be stressful for both the owner and the renter. So being a nice and compassionate human speaks volumes to your character!

What’s the most quintessential LA thing about your neighborhood?

So many celebrity sightings! 

Best cliche Los Feliz activity?

Hiking Griffith Park and visiting the observatory. It’s a must!

Best taco joint?

Tacos 2 Madre for lunch/dinner and Homestate for breakfast tacos.

Best place to grab a drink?

Good Luck Bar for a cocktail and Covell for wine

Best lookout place in Los Feliz?

The Observatory/Griffith Park.

Best street for splurging: Hillhurt or Vermont?

Vermont!

Best place to catch a movie: Los Feliz 3 Vintage Theater or The Vista Theater?

The Vista!

Best way to spend a Sunday morning/afternoon?

First stop, WKNDR! I like to get a rose latte and vegan donut or breakfast sammy and then head to the farmers market across the street. After a little perusing down Vermont, I either catch a movie at The Vista or do a little vintage shopping. At some point in the day, ice cream from Jeni’s is happening. Watching the sunset at Barnsdall is always on the table!

Best way to get around the city? 

Walk or Scooter!

Which historical Los Feliz landmark is your favorite? Why?

I get giddy over all of the Walt Disney homes in the neighborhood. I think that’s partly why Los Feliz has such an enchanting feeling!

I also love the history of The Hollyhock House – A Frank Lloyd Wright house, built for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall. She asked Wright to incorporate her favorite flower, the hollyhock, into the home’s design. Does anyone out there wanna build me a house? My favorite flower is the peony.