#traffic management darwin

[frankies12]

Ensuring safety and efficiency: Keegan Group's premier traffic control solutions are in Darwin.

In the bustling streets of Darwin, good traffic management is crucial. It ensures safety and smooth flow. Keegan Group is a leading name in the industry. They've specialized in providing top-notch traffic control services. These services cater to the unique demands of this vibrant city. Keegan Group stands out as top choice for traffic control in Darwin. They focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability.

Comprehensive Traffic Control Services

At Keegan Group, we understand that each traffic scenario requires a tailored approach. It could be a construction site, a major event, or routine road maintenance. Our team of experts can handle all parts of traffic management. Our services include:

We do traffic planning and consultation. We work closely with clients to make detailed traffic plans. These plans ensure little disruption and lots of safety.

We provide all needed equipment to control and direct traffic. This includes traffic cones and advanced electronic signs.

Our team has qualified traffic controllers. They're experienced in managing traffic and keeping all road users safe.

Commitment to safety.

Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Keegan Group. We've designed our traffic control solutions to protect the public and our workers. We follow the top safety standards. We update our practices to match the latest rules and industry advances.

Why Choose the Keegan Group?

We have local expertise. We understand Darwin's traffic and roads well. This lets us provide tailored solutions that work.

Reliable Service: We pride ourselves on our reliability. Our clients trust us. They trust us to be on time and effective at traffic control.

We use the latest technology and innovative methods. They enhance our traffic control services, making sure they are efficient and effective.

Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering. We've worked closely with our clients. We do this to ensure we meet and exceed their needs.

Success Stories

Keegan Group has been key in managing traffic. They did this for many high-profile projects in Darwin. Our success stories include:

Major Roadworks Projects: They manage traffic flow well during complex roadworks. This minimizes disruption for commuters.

Event Traffic Management ensures smooth traffic operations for large events. It helps make them successful.

Construction Site Safety: Put in place strict traffic control at construction sites. This will protect workers and the public.

Contact Us

You need professional traffic control in Darwin. Look no further than Keegan Group. Contact us today to learn more. We've helped you manage traffic safely and efficiently.

Phone: [(08) 8922 4750]

Email: [graham@keegangroup.com.au]

Website: [keegangroup.com.au]

Keegan Group is your trusted partner for traffic control in Darwin. Let's help you keep the roads safe and traffic moving smoothly.

[qdbs-writes]

Mortal kombat kabal, fujin, hasashi, and kuai liang react to y/n who can’t die and things like wounds just immidiatly heal, so like y/n (while dating them) just jumps of the roof and lands in front of them and the boys are having a panic attack til there bones start snapping back in place and her neck snaps in place and she just looks up after her jaw pops back into place and just goes “hi :)” not even bothered as the blood goes back into them and wounds close back up, just ignore this if you don’t wanna do it, that’s fine too! have a good day!

MK Lads x Unkillable!Reader Experiencing Bodily Harm

Kabal

Now Kabal has seen some shit in his time, he's fucked around and found out so to speak. But nothing could prepare him for how you casually mangle your own body for no particular reason other than that you can.

The most egregious incident of your abilities was when Kabal accidentally exploded the kitchen microwave. This would've been bad enough by itself except that the explosion lodged a large piece of metal shrapnel directly into your face, embedding itself several inches into your skull.

You lie there, motionless, bleeding profusely, and all Kabal can do is stare in horror. He's seen you come back from shattered bones, torn limbs, but never something like this. Tears pour silently from his eyes, crumbling to the floor to weep before you jolt into a sitting position, arms moving about animatedly until your hands reach the chunk of metal and slide it delicately from its crevice in your head.

You turn and beam at Kabal, the bleeding canyon in your face reaching from your mouth to your forehead. His tears don't stop even as the vast gash begins to knit itself back together again. Overwhelmed with relief, Kabal could only manage the words: "Babe, what the fuck?".

Fujin

You would imagine that after living for several thousand millennia, that the gods see a lot of death, in all its many forms. Fujin had been warned away from befriending mortals because one day they would go and leave only grief in their place.

In dating you, Fujin had convinced himself that the eventual grief would be worth the relatively brief time he got to spend with you in his life. But despite all his efforts, he feared that death would take you from him too soon.

Because of your abilities, Fujin can never fully let go of this fear, as you have literally no sense of self-preservation. You'll dunk your bare hands in boiling water, merrily stroll into oncoming traffic, and even jump off high ledges to save the time of taking the stairs. Regularly your antics have left your body mangled, limp, and twisted, like a ragdoll filled with blood.

No matter how much Fujin cries, pleas, begs for you to be more careful, your wounds heal themselves and once more everything is fine. Seeing you defy death and Darwinism on such a regular basis never quite eases the pain Fujin feels when he sees you get hurt, but he is comforted that death will have to work a lot harder to take you from him.

Hanzo Hasashi (Scorpion)

I dare say going through Netherrealm and back does a number on someone, emotionally, mentally, spiritually. So Hanzo isn't coming from the best place in terms of dealing with loss or grief. Especially considering the whole dead wife and kid situation.

So I would suggest that despite your powers, don't use them in front of Hanzo, just... Don't. He's seen enough and watching you suffer isn't good for his healing.

It's mostly because he still carries a lot of regret over his actions as Scorpion and even after all his hard work still struggles to leave that part of himself behind. So you can imagine that seeing you take any kind of damage can send him back into an angry vengeful fire demon.

This isn't to say that you can never use your powers, as Hanzo is capable of channeling his rage, particularly in kombat. In those situations, you are at liberty to get your ass kicked as much as you like. But outside of that? Please remember to be mindful of how much Hanzo loves you and that he just wants you to be safe and happy.

Kuai Liang (Sub Zero)

From a psychological perspective, it would be fair to say that Kuai Liang is a man well-acquainted with pain. With this in mind, you'd assume your abilities would be disturbing for Liang, but instead, he finds a strange sense of peace. He's seen you take deadly hits again and again and you just keep getting back up!

This isn't to say that there haven't been close calls. Liang still has nightmares about the day you asked him to remove the insanely large icicles from the roof of your Arctika home. Liang was busy at the time and didn't go to remove them until after you came back. When he met you outside, he closed the door behind him, sending enough shockwaves through the building to dislodge the largest icicle, which proceeded to plunge directly into the back of your neck and out through your chest, popping your head clean off.

The icicle shatters, your body crumbles, and your severed head rolls lazily toward Liang. He stands frozen, unable to comprehend how the love of his life has just been decapitated in front of him. When he drops to his knees to cradle your head, he almost doesn't see your headless body rise unsteadily before stumbling towards him. In a fit of alarm, he launches your head into the air where your body catches it, holding it over the shoulders when the neck vertebrae snap back into place, your throat and flesh regrowing as well. As the nerves reattach your face lights up and moves again, you smile meaningfully at Liang, who now cowers in front of the door. Needless to say, any hazards you ask Liang to take care of are now immediately dealt with.

[footballffbarbiex]

Cramps.

player: darwin nunez words: 553 request: Can u write a Darwin Nunez fluff where the reader has cramps?

-

You’d been feeling off yesterday. Nothing major, just a little sluggish, sleepy and just…well, off. You’d trudged off to work like normal, but by the end of the day, you knew that it was probably not nothing. You’d tried to hide your grimaces throughout dinner and once you’d sunk into a hot, bubbly bath, you accepted that soon, very soon, you’d find yourself on your period.

So waking up, with a feel that a fist is gripping your organs tightly while someone else is applying pressure to your back, you don’t have to move to know it’s happened. You’d shuffled off to the bathroom, peeled off your clothes and stepped into the shower before taking the clothes and putting them in the wash.

Darwin had had an early training session this morning and so, you’d found the kettle still warm to the touch and evidence of his breakfast remains in the sink. The kettle is refilled and switched on while you unscrew the lid of your hot water bottle and let out a low groan as you lean against the counter.

Somehow you’d managed not to get any pre-period symptoms other than tiredness in the week leading up to today; leading you into a false sense of security that maybe this one wouldn’t be too bad but now it appears your body had simply just saved it all up for the main event.

-

Darwin finds you in bed, cocooned within the duvet watching your favourite comfort movie on the tv when he comes home.

“Mi pequeña oruga,” he chuckles, leading to a bigger laugh when all you can do is roll your eyes. “How’re you feeling?”

“Awful.” You grumble.

“You were tossing and turning a lot last night. I thought this might be the case.” It’s only now you notice he’s holding a small bag when he begins to lift it up to show you. “I bought things to maybe help. Mostly snacks, but I thought it was better than nothing.”

The gesture is enough to make you smile and pull yourself ever so slightly from the nest you’ve created for yourself and sit up. “How was training?” You ask and pat the bed beside you. He needs no encouragement and comes immediately to you.

“Want a cuddle?” He asks. Your instinct is to say no, but past experiences tell you that you’ll feel better once his warm hands are on you.

When you nod, he pulls out the duvet from under you and crawls beneath it, tugging it back into place before moving behind you when you turn on your side. He nuzzles against your back, lips pressing light and soft kisses over you while his hand splays over your belly and gently applies pressure as he strokes.

“Training was good. I was almost late. Almost.”

“Set off late?”

“Traffic more than anything. But at least I wasn’t the only one. Robbo was in the car behind me doing car-aoke. I tried it with him once, and vowed to drive myself next time.”

“You’re saying he’s a bad singer?”

“No. Yes. But no. It’s too small of a space for that kind of enthusiasm.” his words make you chuckle and for the first time since you woke up, you’re thinking about something other than the repetitive ebb and flow of the cramps.

[f-shipping]

6 Marine Services Offered by Offshore Shipping Company

A major part of many vessel-related activities and functions are performed by offshore shipping company. These services are intended to assist in controlling the flow of vessel traffic, promote safer vessel manoeuvring and berthing, and even enhance port or marine efficiency and security. Currently operating offshore vessel operators frequently provide these services. 

Operators of offshore vessels can take many various forms, from those that offer services for supply, maintenance, logistics, and many other operational needs. With their role in the sector, these vessel operators may demonstrate effectiveness and high calibre performance.

The many maritime services provided by operators of offshore vessels are covered here. For more information, keep reading.

1. Dive Support

Supporting different nautical projects and activities is one of the most typical services provided by offshore boats. These services are frequently tailored to meet the needs of diving operations. Securing and hooking up the vessel during diving operations is the main duty of offshore boats in dive support. Effective anchor mooring techniques are frequently used in the service. How operate mooring systems? The mooring line for this system is constructed from fibre ropes, chains, wires, or any combination of these materials. The water depth may affect the materials utilised. During operations, mooring lines' anchors are fixed to the bottom, restricting vessel movement.

Maritime services are vital to the economies of many nations. These services have had a significant impact on the supply chain and economic expansion of the United States. From the domestic market to the international one, they are integral to the end-to-end trade activities. hence permitting the ongoing flow of supplies and materials for the nation's industrial sectors. American marine services are frequently offered at Chalmette, Newark, and other locations.

Similar to this, Australia's marine sector has significantly boosted the country's economy. Many major cities, like Darwin, Perth, Brisbane, Dampier, and many more, rely heavily on offshore services for their shipping and trading needs. They assist oil and gas activities, provide engineering and project management, energy and transmission from renewable sources, build and install offshore structures, conduct offshore surveys and positioning, and more. They provide a variety of maritime services.

2. Offshore Accommodation

Existing boats are provided with offshore lodgings for offshore workforce. For their sizable personnel, the majority of marine businesses require sufficient space. Offshore shipping company supply this necessary housing by using module decks to accommodate and shelter surplus and current offshore personnel. 

By using dynamic and adaptable facility quarters or stations, these accommodation boats give staff a permanent or alternate place to sleep in addition to a host of other uses. In this way, marine enterprises can keep running their businesses and give their staff higher standards of living and comfort. 

The number of staff and available space might also change based on the projects being worked on. The owners of offshore vessels will be the ones to purchase and modify the necessary lodging facilities.

3. Transhipping and Supply

Transferring different kinds of cargo from one vessel to another is the aim of transhipping. To aid finish the transfer of goods or containers, offshore vessel operators can offer this form of maritime service. 

In addition, this maritime service may handle the carrying and transportation of workers, supplies, and equipment to meet the production and operational needs of mineral and energy resource extraction. Supplies of gasoline, freshwater, liquid mud, dry mass, etc., may be among them. 

4. Oil and Gas Field Support

For the oil and gas sectors, offshore vessel operators also offer oil field assistance. The duties performed by this naval service include drilling to extract hydrocarbons from the sea floor and exploring for oil and gas. Jack-up installations, which raise boats above sea level and are also utilised for offshore wind farms, are an additional offshore vessel service associated with these activities by offshore shipping company.

It may also offer vessel tenders and floating platform installations as complementary services for oil and gas field assistance. Support is offered, particularly during exploratory activities, by these floating platforms and tenders.

5. Standby Operations

Rescue and response vessels and services are crucial as offshore industries heavily rely on evacuation and emergency procedures. In order to properly carry out evacuation plans and prompt reactions during crises, offshore vessel operators that provide standby operating services must provide extra facilities and equipment. 

Search and rescue, first aid, and safety monitoring through approaching vessel alerts are all capabilities of standby operating services. They also include all the amenities required for survival and medical attention in some unanticipated underwater situations. 

6. Geo Survey

Geo-survey activities are among the marine services offered by offshore shipping company. What do these mean? Geospatial surveys offer the data required for various activities such as exploratory mining, wind farm projects, and more. Geo surveys offer high-resolution information and mapping of the geological composition, shape, and state of the seabed. 

Geophysical and geotechnical surveys are the two categories of offshore geo surveys. Geophysical surveys are mostly required to make sure that projects and developments at water depths are safe enough to lower or eliminate risk for offshore developers and similar entities. Conversely, geotechnical surveys are in charge of examining and evaluating soil qualities and foundations; these services are mostly required for the oil and gas sector and other associated activities.

Conclusion

Diverse services offered by offshore shipping company like Focal Shipping are beneficial to many maritime businesses. In addition to the services listed above, they are still able to provide and supply more. An overview of how these offshore vessel operators may meet the requirements of a particular project or activities offshore can be obtained by being aware of the various services they offer. 

[ronniescleaning]

How to Deal with Common Commercial Cleaning Challenges in Darwin

Maintaining a clean and hygienic workplace is essential for businesses in Darwin. However, commercial cleaning comes with its fair share of challenges. From the tropical climate to high foot traffic, Darwin presents unique cleaning hurdles that require effective solutions. In this article, we'll explore some of the common commercial cleaning challenges in Darwin and provide practical tips on how to overcome them.

Tropical Humidity and Mold Growth

In Darwin's tropical climate, the high humidity levels can create favorable conditions for mold and mildew growth. To tackle this issue, it's crucial to conduct routine inspections and stay proactive with cleaning. Incorporating dehumidifiers and ensuring adequate ventilation can also play a significant role in preventing mold problems.

Dust and Dirt Accumulation

With increased foot traffic in commercial spaces, dust and dirt accumulation can be a constant issue. Regular vacuuming, sweeping, and the use of doormats can significantly reduce the dirt entering your premises. Employing commercial cleaning services with experience in Darwin's conditions can be a valuable asset.

Stains and Spills

In busy commercial spaces, you'll face stains and spills sooner or later. It could be coffee spills in the breakroom or muddy footprints in lobbies being quick to react is crucial.

Pest Control

Darwin's warm climate also attracts pests. Regular pest control measures, such as sealing entry points and professional pest management services, are crucial to prevent infestations.

High UV Exposure

In Darwin, the intense sunlight can cause interior furnishings to fade and worsen over time. To address this, many locals recommend using window tinting and UV-resistant blinds. These measures help protect your space's aesthetics and prolong the life of your furniture.

Recycling and Waste Management

Sustainable waste management is a growing concern. Implementing recycling programs and training staff on responsible waste disposal can contribute to a cleaner and more eco-friendly environment.

Green Cleaning

As environmental consciousness grows, businesses in Darwin are increasingly adopting green cleaning practices. Using eco-friendly cleaning products and practices not only promotes sustainability but also contributes to a healthier workspace.

In summary, commercial cleaning in Darwin comes with its unique set of challenges, from humidity and mold to dust and pests. By implementing proactive cleaning strategies, adopting sustainable practices, and investing in the right resources, businesses can maintain clean and hygienic environments that enhance the well-being and productivity of their employees. Overcoming these challenges is not only possible but essential for a successful and thriving commercial space in Darwin.

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

“JOHN KIDMAN WILL BE FIRST SPEAKER,” Kingston Whig-Standard. January 6, 1933. Page 7. ---- Young Men's Association of St. Lambert Announces Year's Programme ---- 'Canada's 19th Century Penology" is the subject of an address to be delivered by John Kidman, executive secretary of the Prisoners' Aid and Welfare Association, at a meeting of the Young Men's, Association of St. Lambert, at two o'clock Sunday afternoon. 

Other speakers at meetings to be held during the coming months are: January 15, A. A. Gardiner, assistant general passenger traffic manager, Canadian National Kail-ways, on "Progress"; January 22, Rev. A. O. Lloyd, of Trinity United thurch on "The Xeed for Religion": January 29. F. W. Field, H.M. Senior British Trade Commissioner in Canada on "The Development of Inter-Empire Trade."

February 5, Rev. C. H. Dickinson, of the American Presbyterian United Church on "Religion in Dress Suits"; February 12, Hon. Wesley Frost, United States Consul-General, on "Abraham Lincoln"; February 19, J. H. McAlpine, superintendent, motive power and car equipment, Canadian National Rail ways, on "The Evolution of the Modern Locomotive"; February 26, Rev. C. G. Stevens, Church of St. Barnabas, St. Lambert, on "Some Aspects of the Oxford movement." 

March 5, Prof. P. S. McCullagh, McGill University, on "A Bicycle .Tour Through France" (illustrated); March 12, Dr. T. A. Halpenny, of St. James United Church, on "Is My Religion an Asset or a Liability?"; March 19, Alderman V.. H. Biggar, on "Municipal Problems"; March 26, Col. Wilfrid Bovey, of McGill University, on "Romance in Canadian History." 

April 2, Rev. J. V. McCrae, of St. Lambert United Church, on "The Faith of Robert Louis Stevenson"; April 9, O. P. Stensrud, superintendent, terminals. Dominion Coal Company, on "The Coal Mining Industry in Nova Scotia"; April 16, Easter musical service; April 28, Rev. H. R. Pike, of Olivet Baptist Church, on "In Need of Repair"; April 30, Rev. Charles Este, on "Personal Reflections." 

May 7, Juel Holt, on "The Vikings and Their Influence in Europe''; May 14, Mrs. Darwin S. Higginson, president, Montreal Women's Club, in a Mothers' Day address.

[bunkershotgolf]

Dundonald Links is already relishing the prospect of hosting the 2023 Women’s Scottish Open following the huge success of this year’s event in which Japanese rookie, Ayaka Furue, broke the course record on her way to victory in Ayrshire, Scotland.

The resort has undergone a major recent upgrade under new owners, Darwin Escapes, and won widespread praise from the elite field for its redesigned course and stunning new facilities, which include a two-story clubhouse and a range of modern accommodation lodges.

Furue, 22, had started the final day four shots behind Ko and Celine Boutier, who would go on to finish second at Dundonald, but the Japanese player produced an amazing 10 birdies in her round of 62 to earn herself a deserved first victory on the LPGA Tour with a winning score of 21-under-par.

While the Kyle Phillips designed golf course thrilled the players, they were equally smitten by all of the new luxury amenities at Dundonald Links.

World number four, Lydia Ko, who stayed in one of the new lodges, said, “It’s super convenient. This wasn’t part of the facilities we had last time we were here, so I was surprised when they said there was this option. It’s nice to be able to roll out of bed and you don’t have to think about is there going to be traffic.”

Ian Ferguson, general manager at Dundonald Links, commented: “We had the most fantastic week hosting the world’s best golfers here on site and to hear such overwhelmingly positive feedback from the players on both the course and our facilities has been so gratifying for our whole team here at Dundonald Links. It has been a real pleasure to partner with Trust Golf, VisitScotland, the LPGA, LET and IMG to deliver this prestigious event, so we are delighted to have the opportunity to welcome everyone back here next year.”

[faithfulnews]

Upstairs into the Plague

I was driving into work this morning and I hit the traffic jam. Every morning at about 6:30 am the traffic begins to back up on the highway leading into my medical center. It’s the morning shift — hundreds of nurses and clerks and aides and orderlies and housekeepers bleary-eyed and guzzling Starbucks and they wait to enter the parking garage and begin their (usually 12 hour) shift. I avoid the crush and go in the back way. It’s a bit of a walk but I need the exercise. 

When I got into the office, our team was waiting to make rounds. Several of them were on call overnight — they spent the night in the ER, seeing neurosurgery patients, amidst the crush of humanity with fevers and coughs. I’m lucky — I’m the professor, and I mostly go to the operating room — where it’s sterile and everyone wears masks. My team in the ER doesn’t have that luxury. They don’t complain. 

I worry about them. For their health, of course, but also because we really need them. Most of the neurosurgery emergency care for our very large county is provided by our department, and if our people get sick, a couple of million people will have difficulty getting care. We’re trying very hard to stay healthy in this COVID-19 pandemic, and to keep working and keep informed. 

Treat Coronavirus with Darwinian Theory?

The media is full of talking heads and experts. They’re mostly doing their best, but the ideologues and grifters are all too plentiful.  To wit, we get lots of “reminders” about the importance of evolutionary science and Darwin in the management of the coronavirus pandemic. 

“Geneticist Spencer Wells on COVID-19 as ‘Evolution in Action’”

“Biology | Basic evolution knowledge could have helped China control coronavirus”

“Evolution of an outbreak”

“Coronavirus — we need to learn from Darwin”

There’s no doubt that COVID-19 evolved: populations of viruses change with time. Of course, we know that from epidemiology and virology and simple observation. Darwin’s theory has little to do with epidemiology. Darwin proposed that all biological adaptation and speciation arose from wholly unintelligent processes. Given the ubiquitous evidence for intelligence in nature, this atheist biology was a tough sell without a mechanism by which the stunning tapestry of information-bearing life came about. In an epiphany, Darwin hit upon the explanation for life — survivors survived! Atheists at last were intellectually satisfied.

Darwin’s actual impact on epidemiology is minimal — his theory (published in 1859) mainly served to distract scientists and doctors from the real science on infectious disease that emerged from the work of Girolamo Fracastoro (16th-century physician who proposed that infections were caused by microorganisms), Antonie van Leeuwenhoek (17th century — discovered microorganisms), Thomas Sydenham (studied London epidemics in the 17th century), Edward Jenner (first smallpox vaccine — 1757)), Ignaz Semmelweis (discovered in 1847 that antisepsis prevented post-partum infections), John Snow (stopped cholera epidemic in London, 1854), Louis Pasteur (germ theory of disease), Joseph Lister (antiseptic surgery), Robert Koch (modern bacteriology), Paul Ehrlich (Nobel laureate who cured syphilis), Alexander Flemming (penicillin), Jonas Salk (polio vaccine), to name just a few. 

Fascinated by Barnacles

Darwin, who was mathematically illiterate and fascinated by barnacles, flunked out of medical school, married his (wealthy) first cousin, wrote a book on the origin of species by natural selection in which he provided no evidence for the origin of species by natural selection, and worked sporadically, mostly from bed. He would have required remedial training to get a job cleaning Pasteur’s test tubes. Yet his contribution to atheism, unlike his contribution to science, was epochal. 

A “Narrative Gloss”

Epidemiology, to which Darwinism is a “narrative gloss,” is an old and vigorous science. But there’s more to the amelioration of epidemics than superb science. The most important advance in preventing epidemics — probably more important than vaccinations and the gamut of 21st-century high-tech science — is low-tech public sanitation. There is probably nothing (except for food and water and blankets) that has saved more lives from epidemics than enforcement of the principle that drinking water and sewage water must not be the same water. And low-tech medical care is indispensable as well. Historian Rodney Stark points out that survival in epidemics is often more the consequence of ordinary courageous people who stick around and do their jobs than it is of sophisticated medical technology. This was the reason that Christian communities in antiquity had much higher survival rates than pagan communities during epidemics. Christians would stick around — at risk to themselves — and would not flee and abandon plague victims to die of starvation or exposure. The most effective medical care in a plague is someone who gives a damn. 

Of course many modern scientists are doing good vital work in this pandemic. Kudos to the virologists and epidemiologists and critical care specialists who are working hard to save lives. We need to understand virology and develop anti-viral medications and develop strategies to “flatten the curve” of the pandemic. But to those politicians and science grifters who would use this catastrophe for partisanship or ideology, give it a break. Spin and evolutionary tautologies are just a pandemic of an intellectual sort. 

Running Toward Danger

What we need right now is captured in an image from 9-11 — this coronavirus pandemic reminds me of that time. It’s a picture of a fireman in Tower 1 running up stairs, when everybody was running down. You could see in his face that he knew what he was facing. He had no illusions. There are people who run towards things like that. 

Every night, when most of us have put away our favorite novel and switched off our remote classroom link on our university-bought computer and done our last wipe with Purell before bed, the midnight-shift stock boys at Shop Rite will begin restocking the shelves with toilet paper and food, working through the night in aisles trodden by thousands of panicked (and a few febrile) shoppers. In the hospital the housekeepers on the 11-7 shift will clean patients’ rooms, scrubbing walls and toilets that the rest of us wouldn’t touch without a hazmat suit. And the nurses on the night shift will wipe the mucous and hold the hand of someone’s grandmother who is gasping for breath in the ICU. 

Every stock boy or housekeeper or nurse is doing more to fight this pandemic than all the politicians and talking-head science grifters and tenure-track professors in the department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at Harvard. And more than all the neurosurgery professors, too. 

So say a prayer, whether evolutionary biologists like it or not. Pray for the stock boys and the housekeepers and the nurses. Pray for the people on the front line — the people waiting in line at the hospital parking garage at 6:30 am. 

Pray for the people running into this plague when everyone else is running away.  

Photo credit: David Mark via Pixabay.

The post Upstairs into the Plague appeared first on Evolution News.

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[frankies12]

Linemarking Alice Springs

[sautiasalzpa1985-blog]

Thankfully since then we managed to have very productive conversations on the matter and how it problematic. He also admitted that a lot of Asian people in NA doesn see much issues with being racist against "FOB"s. I think that a huge issue. Lol it was an interesting point that really got me thinking. 40 points submitted 8 days agoThey been featured here before, but never as the first song on the playlist. 200k subscribers might not seem that big, compared to say K Pop Daebak 1.8 million subscribers, but being on top of this playlist seems to be a good sign that it eventually be put on that playlist as well! If you listen to any kpop at all, that playlist is going to be on your Spotify front page even if you didn subscribe, so it quite a big deal.For reference, LOONA has had (afaik) two songs on K Pop Daebak, favOriTe and See Saw. 1: I don think this is a realistic scene. At least it doesn start in a realistic place. A fat guy in a car puts a lot of ketchup on his sandwich. By far the best food in hawaii save like 3 places(2 on maui and 1 on the big island) are all on Oahu. Theres some pretty good places on Kauai, but I will mostly list stuff on Oahu as it has the most to try. Theres a lot of tourist traps in hawaii, so knowing where to eat saves a lot of money, and theres a big difference in quality as well. Another thing I did that worked for a while a few years ago was I set a budget and said "I only going to spend x dollars per week on takeout" and tried really hard to stick to that. I would log in a notebook every time I ate out by hand and how much it costed and tally it up 정선출장마사지 as the week went on. It made me more cognizant of what I was spending.. This reminds me of EXACTLY how my ex acted when I decided to go to nursing school! We had a 5 year old at the time and he was so resentful of me working full time and going to school full time for the pre reqs. Every test I stressed about he was like "You're doing too much. It's going to take years for you to become a nurse. Then my period comes and it all just sort of goes away. This wasn much of an issue pre PCOS diagnosis because I only get my period once every four or more months. Tho I did notice that my pms symptoms lasted way longer then.. You may or may not have to wait in line depending on what time you arrive to vote. It generally doesn't take long to move the line. There are people at the door that will tell you where to go to check in. Darwin documented how the beaks of these small birds varied from island to island to take advantage of available food sources. Those with sharp beaks feasted on insects while others with short, stout beaks plucked seeds from the ground. Natural selection meant those best suited to their environments thrived and multiplied, while others struggled and died out. Undertstanding the reasons for nerves 정선출장마사지 caused by an upcoming Practical driving test and tips on how to minimise stress and anxiety and stay calm1Do It Yourself Auto RepairHow to Test an Ignition Coilby Dan Ferrell 11 months agoLearn how to test an ignition coil to troubleshoot engine misfires, no start condition and other performance issues. Automatic transmissions did not catch on right away, why would an electric truck?3Automotive Makes ModelsReplace the Upper Control Arm Bushing on a Jeep Dana 30 Front Axleby GChanMako 8 months agoOn the Dana 30 there are two ear like mounts for the upper control arms this guide will help you replace those bushings when they have gone bad.1Car Care MaintenanceHow to Clean Car Seats Stains Effectivelyby Geronimo Colt 22 hours agoSome of the best and effective ways on how to clean car seats stains.0Car Safety Safe DrivingThree Girls Killed in Islamabad Traffic Mishapby Hamza Arif 7 days agoShow DetailsNecessaryHubPages Device IDThis is used to identify particular browsers or devices when the access the service, and is used for security reasons. LoginThis is necessary to sign in to the HubPages Service.

[welllpthisishappening]

Where You Can Still Remember Dreaming (1/35)

Killian Jones, former crime reporter, was not happy to be home. It hadn’t been home in a very long time, after all. Home was an abstract construct that existed for people who didn’t know as many adjectives for blood as he did. Home wasn’t New York City, but it certainly wasn’t Boston or New Orleans either and he’d always gone where the story was. And he was positive Emma Swan was one hell of a story.

Emma Swan, pro video game player, desperately wanted to find home. She thought she had, a million years ago in the back corner of a barn and a town and faces she trusted. But that had all blown up in her face and it didn’t take long for her to decide she was going to control the pyrotechnics from here on out. So now she was in New York City and a different corner and she kind of wanted to trust Killian Jones.

Rating: Mature Word Count: 9.1 this chapter. Lots total. Lots.  AN: Ah! Hey, hi, hello there! The thing is happening! After sitting in my Google docs for way too long, AngstFest2k17 is finally seeing the light of internet day. I’m super psyched for you guys to read this and fingers crossed that my video game knowledge is not too obviously lacking. I asked my husband a lot of questions. This is real different than anything I’ve written, so I hope you guys enjoy it. Tuesday and Friday updates because I am who I am. A million thank you’s to @madelainespetsch for reading this over.  Also on Ao3 & FF.net if that’s how you roll. Tag List: @jamif @alicerubyfloyd @kmomof4 @bmbbcs4evr @courtneyshortney82 @jennjenn615 @artistic-writer @onceuponaprincessworld​ @nikkiemms​ @resident-of-storybrooke​ (let me know if you want to be tagged!)

What was that thing Darwin said?

Survival of the fittest? Evolve or die? Something a little less harsh, probably. Or maybe not. The guy was, after all, obsessed with turtles. Tortoises? Maybe.

Killian squeezed his eyes shut, trying to push thoughts of Darwin and turtles and how much he absolutely despised the island of Manhattan from his mind. None of those things mattered. The only thing that mattered was getting to the office in one piece with some sort of almost-believable smile on his face and a can-do attitude that everyone in a ten-foot radius would probably be able to see through immediately.

So maybe he needed to come up with a slightly better list.

And learn how to breathe through his mouth.

What was it about summer in New York that made everything smell slightly like sewage? It was probably a test. Survival of the fittest or something.

He’d circled right back around to Darwin.

“God damnit,” Killian mumbled, trying to weave his way through a crowd of tourists, all of whom had decided that the middle of Broadway was the perfect place to just stop and take photos.

They didn’t move. Even when he started muttering more curses under his breath and, maybe, didn’t turn his shoulder when the light turned green and the whole lot of them started pushing across the crosswalk and, well, they just deserved to get hit in the side at that point.

Rational. Reasonable. Survival.

Killian Jones was, at one point, at least two of those things and then he turned ten.

And then he wasn’t really any of those things anymore.

And, now, several decades removed from watching that very particular bubble burst right in front of his eyes, Killian Jones was nothing short of angry, frustrated and visibly fed up with just about everything.

Including tourists in downtown Manhattan.

Especially tourists in downtown Manhattan.

“The sign says walk, that means you’ve got to walk,” Killian grumbled, only to be met with the wide-eyed stare of a woman who, very clearly, had never seen a building taller than two stories before in her life.

“What?” she asked. She’d stopped walking. This was not going according to plan. He was going to be late. And maybe get hit by a cab. That would, at least, get him out of this meeting. But then he’d probably drop the coffee in his hand and that was just a waste of four dollars he couldn't really rationalize anymore.

“The sign,” Killian repeated, nodding towards the post on the corner of the block. “See that light-up person on there? It means you can walk. He wants you to walk. Or her. I’m not here to determine gender for a crosswalk sign.” “Just to be an ass.” He shrugged. He wasn’t really expecting that from the very-obvious-tourist with her I Love NY plastic bag, but she wasn’t really wrong. “Welcome to New York or something.” She might have muttered dick under her breath, but she did pick up the pace a little bit and they both managed to get across East 8th without a major traffic incident or possible hit-and-run, so the whole thing seemed like a bit of a victory.

That was, however, until Killian stepped back onto the sidewalk to find himself face to face with an enormous set of doors and a building with far too many windows and the heating bill must have been insane during the winter.

He probably didn’t have to worry about that.

He assumed he wasn’t in charge of the heating or cooling of the building. Just the writing. Maybe. Regina hadn’t been all that specific. And he absolutely hadn’t been listening.

He’d been far too worried about being pissed off at the entire world – her words, not his. She was right. Killian just wouldn’t ever admit to that.

Regina knew anyway. That’s why she’d called in the first place and offered him the job. Offered was generous. She’d demanded his presence in New York a week before, quick to remind him that he didn’t have anything else to do and, as much as it pained Killian to admit, she was right. That’s what he got for telling Robin anything.

Killian sighed, taking another sip – gulp – of coffee and wincing when he burnt the back of his tongue. It was way too hot out to just be standing there, staring at The Daily Caller emblazoned on the two glass doors he still hadn’t managed to open.

God, fucking damnit.

His phone rang in his pocket and Killian might have actually jumped at the sound, taking him by surprise and nearly leading to another dropped coffee incident. He moved the cup into the crook of his elbow, trying to pull his phone out while still keeping the bag on his shoulder from falling on the ground and, somehow, another tourist managed to bump into him.

“What?” he snapped when he finally managed to get his phone out and pressed up against his ear.

“Do you always answer your phone like that? That was incredibly aggressive.” Killian’s shoulders slumped and he heard the thud of his bag hitting the sidewalk. It was probably covered in garbage now, just by default. He’d blame New York. And Robin was practically cackling on the other end.

“Maybe I just knew it was you,” Killian said. “Trying to make jokes. Badly, for what it’s worth.” “Not much. I know my jokes suck. What I don’t know though is why you’re camping out in front of the door when you were supposed to be sitting in a chair in front of Regina’s desk five minutes ago.” “She’d let me sit in a chair? That’s awfully generous of her majesty.” “Don’t be a dick.” “You know that’s not the first time I’ve heard that today.” “And that doesn’t surprise me at all. You should really come inside though, you’re freaking out the receptionist. She wanted security to call the police because she thought you were a really well-dressed loiterer.” Killian scoffed, but he could feel the sweat starting to pool at the base of his neck and the bottom of his spine and maybe he should have taken the jacket off. Or not worn the jacket at all. Or ignored Regina’s commands completely.

That last one was, absolutely, impossible.

“How come you need security to call the police?” Killian asked, delaying the inevitable meeting and not even doing a very good job of hiding it.

Robin laughed again. “They’re security, Killian. They can’t actually arrest you for whatever lewd activity you were doing to scare our receptionist.”

“Lewd, huh? When’d you swallow a thesaurus?” “When I married a reporter.” “That whole being editor thing didn’t help then?” The laughing stopped. Killian smiled and took another drink of the now luke-warm coffee. “See, I want to call you a dick again, but if I do that, you’re going to make another quip about my vocabulary and its limited uses. So, how about you stop being a complete and utter bastard, actually find some kind of unspoken courage and show up to a meeting we’re only having in order to save your ass?” “Did you practice that?” Robin groaned and Killian couldn’t remember the last time he’d laughed that easily, probably the last time he’d been in New York and with Robin and Regina and...whatever. That wasn’t important. He’d started breathing through his nose again and he could smell whatever it was that smell was – possibly just the scent of the questionable steam that was actually coming out of the ground at the end of the block, funneled up with city-provided equipment and he’d never understood that.

He’d probably look it up later.

“Dick, ass, bastard, idiot,” Robin listed off, each insult sounding a little less insulting.

“I’m a little hurt by idiot, I’ll be honest.” “Come inside, Killian.” The doors in front of him actually buzzed and he had to admit, he was kind of impressed by that. Killian grabbed one of the incredibly ostentatious handles, kicking his foot back to step over the threshold only to be met by a pair of bright green eyes and even brighter hair and an incredulous expression.

“So you actually came in then,” she said slowly, resting her elbows on the top of the desk in front of her.

Killian narrowed his eyes, pursing his lips slightly and nodded. “So it seems. You guys have air conditioning. That won out.” “Robin said you were late.”

“Five minutes. The subway sucks.” “They’re calling it ‘summer of hell’ for a reason, I guess. Where’d you get stuck?” “Excuse me?” The woman’s expression didn’t change, but she sat up a bit straighter and brushed her hair off her shoulders. “Stuck. On the train. I’m assuming that’s the reason behind the five minutes.” “Well, it’s more like seven minutes now, but that was really Robin’s fault. And, no, had to transfer. He also said you thought I was loitering.” She shrugged. “You’ve got a look to you. And it wasn’t just me. Our security guy agreed with me. He’s the one who said I should call Robin.” “A look,” Killian repeated slowly. Another shrug. He glanced at the desk she was still leaning on, elbows just a few inches away from a nameplate that proclaimed her Ariel Golven. “What exactly constitutes this look?”

“Tall, dark, brooding. You kept staring at that coffee cup like you thought it was going to give you up for murder. Have you murdered anyone recently?” Killian quirked an eyebrow at her and she grinned in response. “Not that I’m aware of, although I can’t be held responsible for anything I do to tourists in the middle of crosswalks. Why, are you trying to turn me into a murderer?” “No, I don’t really want to deal with murderers,” Ariel said. “I’m assuming you’re Regina’s eleven o’clock? The one she and Robin keep talking about in hushed tones?” “Yes to the eleven o’clock, but I refuse to acknowledge tones hushed or otherwise.” He paused, licking his lips and downing the rest of the coffee. Ice cold in ten minutes, flat. “You have a garbage can back there, Ariel? And any idea what was discussed in those hushed tones?”

She laughed. Loudly. Enough to draw the attention of the previously mentioned security guard who, at first glance, appeared to be seventy-two years old and absolutely should call the police before deciding to do anything, if only for the sake of his health and probably several different joints.

“Here,” she said, holding her hand out expectantly and wiggling her fingers when Killian didn’t move immediately. “That’s a yes to the first question,” she continued. “And a vague sense of impressed that you know how to read and an absolutely not to gossiping about the people who sign my paychecks when I know you’re here for some great, big important reason.” “I don’t know about great and important,” Killian argued.

Belittling and just a bit trivial, maybe. Survival of the fittest, it seemed, meant agreeing to things you absolutely, positively would not do in any other situation – like agreeing to come back to New York and be Regina Mills’ eleven o’clock on a Thursday morning in August.

Ariel clicked her tongue. “Ah, but those hushed tones say otherwise.” The phone on her desk rang, a loud, shrill sound that cut through the lobby and seemed to shake off the glass doors and directly into the very center of Killian’s soul.

Darwin probably hadn’t been that emotional. The turtles wouldn’t have allowed it.

“Yeah, he’s here,” Ariel answered, some unspoken question that could only be Regina if the demanding tone of voice on the other end was any indication. Killian still hadn’t handed over his half-empty coffee cup. “Uh, no I don’t think so.”

Killian widened his eyes and Ariel rolled hers, mouthing dead at him. She wiggled her fingers again, finally just leaning over the top of the desk to grab the empty cup and dump it into the trash can behind her. “Thanks,” he muttered, just a bit stunned by the show of kindness and he was a jaded asshole.

Regina was still talking a mile a minute, what sounded like a very detailed list of demands that were only serving to make Killian even later than he already was.

The elevator at the other end of the lobby dinged and they needed to do something about the acoustics of that building because everything just seemed to sound louder, or maybe those were the nerves he’d resolutely refused to acknowledge in the last two weeks, and Killian didn’t even want to think of all the reasons he knew exactly who was walking towards him as soon as the footsteps fell on the tiled floor.

“Killian, seriously, what the hell?” Robin shouted, striding towards him like he was eighteen again and breaking curfew. “We, literally, just went over this.” Killian waved his hands through the air, the silent gesture more than enough to warrant the scowl on Robin’s face and maybe he was eighteen again because he’d absolutely done it for the reaction. “You told me to come inside,” he corrected. “I am inside. And I’m also a guest in your delightfully large office building. You want me to break protocol by not signing in or whatever you do with guests?” “Cretin.” “Oh, that was a good one.” Robin sighed, rolling his whole head in frustration, but there was a hint of a smile on the edge of his mouth and Killian knew he’d won. Ariel slammed the receiver back into the mount, mumbling a few words under her breath and she nearly fell out of her chair when she realized who was standing in front of her.

“Oh, Mr. Locksley,” she stammered. “I, uh, I didn’t realize you...I didn’t see you there.” “It’s fine, Ariel,” Robin promised, elbowing Killian when he couldn’t quite stop himself from laughing. “Killian’s not a guest. He should have a keycard, actually.” “What?” Killian snapped, turning on his friend and, maybe, mentor and pseudo parent-guardian in some sort of sign your permission slips kind of way. Robin brushed him off. “That wasn’t part of the deal. There was no deal.” Robin clicked his tongue, tapping a knowing finger against the strap of Killian’s bag. “Exactly. You gave her an in, Killian and now she’s got her tenterhooks locked in. If you tell her I said that I will push you off the roof.” “I wouldn't dare. “You would. I fully expect you to say something anyway.” Robin took the card out of Ariel’s hand with a smile on his face and promptly pushed it into Killian’s chest. “Take this. Guard it with your life. It’s the only way you’ll be able to get into the building from now on. Come on.” “Wait, what?” “You stop understanding English at some point?” Killian shook his head. “Come on. Gina’s pissed you’re late.”

“Right,” Killian muttered, following Robin back towards the elevators as Ariel shouted welcome aboard as soon as the doors clicked shut.

It took some kind of eternity to reach the twentieth floor, Robin’s smug smile making Killian reconsider every single decision he’d ever made that led him to that moment. Regina had the whole floor to herself. Of course she did.

“God, spare no expense, huh?” Killian asked, running a hand through his hair as they walked towards another set of glass doors.

Robin rolled his eyes. “You really have no sense of self worth at all, do you?” “To be fair, I have no idea what’s actually going on, so I guess I’m just stringing along for the ride at this point.”

Regina Mills looked older than she did when Killian first met her. The band t-shirts that had been some kind of uniform when she was twenty-four and a cub reporter on the entertainment beat were long gone, replaced, instead with a seemingly ever-growing pant suit collection that cost more than Killian’s last apartment in Boston. The curls were gone too and her hair was short, cut straight and business-like, a no-nonsense attitude that seemed to permeate every single inch of the expansive office.

The lights on her desk phone probably never stopped blinking and the pile of paperwork a few feet away from her right elbow probably never got smaller. She looked a bit like her mother.

Killian wouldn’t ever say that out loud.

Robin was absolutely wrong – he had, at least, a little self worth.

“Where have you been?” Regina demanded, not even bothering to get out of her chair. She just glared at Killian.

“And hello to you too, Regina,” Killian answered. “It’s super great to see you. Long time. Or something. How’s everything? How’s Henry and Roland?”

He nodded towards the few frames sitting behind her, decorating the tiny shelf and Killian couldn’t look too long – certain he’d get vertigo from staring out the massive window back towards Broadway. Liam would have made fun of him for that.

Oh.

Oh, well, shit.

He shouldn’t be surprised – jumping back into the deep end of memories and emotions as he was, it only made sense that, eventually, he’d think about Liam. He just wished it wasn’t in front of Regina when he was fifteen minutes late and she was absolutely doing him some kind of enormous favor.

“Can I sit?” he asked. “Or is that against the rules?” Robin groaned, flopping into one of the chairs in front of Regina’s desk and stretching his legs out. Regina might have smiled. “Yeah, you can sit,” she said. “After you answer my question.” “You know I think that’s referred to as aggravating your sources.” “An answer or I’m actually going to get Robin to move that other chair into the hallway and you can stand for the rest of this discussion. Your call, Jones.”

She was definitely smiling and Killian felt some of that ice he’d built up in the very center of him shift just a little bit, the nickname sparking just a hint of feeling. “An ancient callback, your majesty,” he muttered. “And I had to transfer trains. It took fucking forever.” "Why are you taking the train? Aren’t you staying downtown?”

Killian shook his head, sitting down and nearly sighing in contentment when his knees bent. There’d been no seats on the train – either one. “No, it’s too...downtown.” “That doesn’t even make any sense,” Regina countered. “Hip. Is that better?”

“That just makes you sound old,” Robin said. “You could have told us you were staying uptown. We would have sent a car or something. Avoided this whole thing.”

“And not done this get-to-know-you-again banter?” Killian asked. “Where’s the fun in that?”

Robin laughed in agreement, but Regina pressed her lips together – a thin line of judgement and red lipstick and understanding that Killian didn’t appreciate at all. “Why are you torturing yourself?” she asked. “He wouldn’t want you to stay up there.” “Straight to the point then,” Killian muttered and Robin stopped laughing immediately. “It’s not like I’m staying in the apartment. It’s just quieter up there.” And maybe Killian wanted to torture himself a little bit.

It was easier to do that when he wasn’t living on Astor Place with 24-hour pizza places and several dozen bars and the incoming freshman class at NYU exercising their first few weeks of freedom from adult supervision.

Once upon a time, Killian Jones lived in a tiny shoebox of a Morningside Heights apartment in upper Manhattan with his brother and it was a mess. They barely paid the rent every month and God knew how Liam managed to feed them every day and, at one point, he only owned two pairs of socks.

It had been an unqualified disaster.

It was, easily, the happiest Killian could ever remember being.

But happiness, it seemed, was not something that was ever meant to be consistent. It was fleeting and easy to lose and, eventually, Killian just decided to stop expecting much of anything from anyone.

Which was why he wasn’t quite sure why he was reacting to Boston the way that he was. He wasn’t just mad – he was pissed off. And yelling at tourists about it.

Print was dead. There was no future in it. Or, more importantly, no profit in it. And he had the metaphorical pink slip to prove it.

An email. Years of work and bylines and ignoring everything else to get the story and the best The Herald could do was send him an email informing him that he was part of a round of staff cuts and he needed to have his desk cleared by the end of the week.

He did one better. He cleared out his entire apartment.

“There’s not really any sense in beating around the bush,” Regina said pointedly and shit she sounded like Cora. Killian rolled his eyes. “Liam wouldn’t want you up there. You’re not the ghost in this situation.” Killian let out a low whistle and even Robin mumbled something that sounded a bit like jeez, Gina, he was ten minutes late, no need to actually ruin his entire day. She just lifted her eyebrows and stared at Killian, waiting for him to argue and smiling slightly when he didn’t.

“What do you want me to say, Gina?” Killian asked, certain if he fell back on nicknames and familiarity maybe he wouldn’t be tempted to run out of the office screaming.

“Why you’re being so difficult about all of this?” Because my brother’s dead and I’ve avoided New York for the last decade and the one job I thought mattered very easily informed me that I was mistaken, again, and your windows are freaking me out.

It sounded absurd in his head, he could only imagine what it would sound like if he actually said any of those words out loud.

“I’m not being difficult,” he said, ignoring whatever strangled sound Robin made next to him. One of Regina’s eyebrows moved. “I’m not! Why are you so mad about ten minutes?” “This is a fairly important website, in case you haven’t noticed,” Regina said evenly. “Strangely enough I do have other things to do besides waiting for you to grace us with your presence.”

“This was your idea.” “And you’re being an ass about it.” “Robin already used that insult, come up with a different one.” “Bastard.” “Nope.”

“Dunce.” Killian grinned and Regina’s shoulders seemed to settle just a bit, spine not quite as straight and the tension in the office not quite as thick. “Winner winner,” he mumbled, ancient games matching up with ancient nicknames and Liam absolutely wouldn’t want him to stay uptown.

“Did Robin give you the keycard thing?” she asked.

“Super articulate, your majesty. And yes, he did. Before he actually coughs up a lung in a misplaced attempt to argue with both of us.” Robin snapped his jaw shut, glaring at Killian again and kicking at his ankle for good measure. “Although I don’t understand why you’re giving me one of these things if I’m just going to write breaking stuff for you.” Robin made another noise – it might have actually be a moan and Killian twisted in the chair, a wooden arm colliding with his side. “What am I missing?” he asked.

“See, this is why you should have gotten here on time,” Robin said. “Then we could have gone over all the reasons you shouldn’t freak out without having to rush over them.” Killian glanced back at Regina, an unreadable look on her face and the phone was probably going to explode at some point if she didn’t acknowledge all of those flashing lights. “Am I not your top priority, Gina?”

“Obviously not,” she responded easily. Robin was going to choke on air. “And you’re not going to do news either.” “What?” Killian’s eyes darted between the two other people in the room, desperate for some kind of contradiction or explanation and all but growling when he wasn’t provided with either.

This whole thing really was Regina’s fault. Not that she’d ever admit to it.

He was eighteen and a freshman in college, working two jobs before and after class and it had been a Saturday afternoon when a twenty-something woman with black hair and bright red nails strode into the coffee shop just off campus and ordered a large Americano with whipped cream and an extra shot of espresso.

She’d been on her phone and there’d been a pen stuck in her hair and a notebook gripped tightly in one hand.  

He thought she was crazy. Whipped cream on an Americano was disgusting. Years later, Killian asked Regina about it and she claimed it was for the sugar, but he got the distinct impression it was some kind of rebellious act because Cora refused to admit that anything good in the world, like whipped cream, existed.

Regina could have done things easier – she could have lived up to her mother’s plans and demands and expectations and she probably could have gotten an above-the-fold story in The Times before she was thirty without having to do much more than mention her last name.

She didn’t want that.

She wanted to earn it. Or so she explained to Killian after she started showing up in the coffee shop  several times a day, saying that she’d moved uptown on her own and graduated with a masters in journalism and was covering music because she loved it.

He never forgot the way her eyes lit up when she started talking about it – the emotions and the feeling and the want and when she told him to come along to see her boyfriend play in Alphabet City that weekend, Killian wasn’t sure he’d seen anyone love anything as much as Regina loved her beat, literal and metaphorical.

He declared the week after, marching into the Dean's office at Hunter with a sense of determination that made Liam ask what he’d done with Killian Jones and it only took a few minutes to lock into some sort of future.

And Killian Jones, reporter was born.

“Explain, Gina,” Killian said sharply, doing his best to get the Mills demand into his voice. It didn’t work. “I don’t know how to do anything except news.” She didn’t look impressed. “Ok, that’s not true at all. You have a degree. I know you took a features writing course once. I fixed your grammar.” “If we’re just here to walk down memory lane…” “Obviously we’re not or I wouldn’t be so pissed off about you being late and screwing up my entire schedule for the day.” “Guys,” Robin cut in, actually standing up to move in between them and Killian didn’t remember shifting to the front of the chair until he was nearly falling off it. “There’s no space in news,” he said, staring intently at Killian. “We don’t have the byline.” “You’re a website,” Killian accused. “An enormous website mostly made up of freelancers. I’m not asking for a staffer job.” “Too bad,” Regina mumbled and Robin shot her a look over his shoulder.

Killian took a deep breath, sliding back until his shoulders collided with the top of the chair. He pressed his tongue against his cheek and stared back at Robin. “Alright,” he said slowly. “I’m listening.” Robin tilted his head slightly – an exasperated move Killian was fairly certain Liam taught him – and balanced on the edge of Regina’s desk. “I’m not even going to acknowledge that with an insult,” he mumbled. “And I don’t care about your reservations as a staffer. That’s why we got you the keycard. You already are one.”

Killian opened his mouth to argue, but Robin just widened his eyes and he’d gotten very good at that look. It probably had something to do with raising two kids. And Liam. Liam definitely taught him that. “This is not up for debate,” Robin continued. “You, Killian Jones, are now an official staff writer at The Daily Caller and, now, an official employee of Mills Media. There’s a shit ton of paperwork for you to fill out later, but we’ll get to that. You’ll be full-time, you’ll get benefits, you should move out of that hotel you’ve been staying in for the last two days. And while we can’t tell you not to live uptown, we can both strongly suggest that you consider moving down here to make the commute easier. And,” he said, eyeing Killian with a look that left little room for argument, “you should forget whatever misgivings you have about a beat that does not revolve intrinsically around death.” “Ok, breaking news isn’t just death,” Killian reasoned. Regina made a dismissive noise. “It’s not! It just ends up that way a lot because people are awful.” “And this kind of involves death,” Regina muttered.

Robin almost looked defeated. “Virtually.” “What the hell are either one of you talking about?” Killian asked, half shouting the question in the hope that, maybe, it would get him some answers.

“Video games,” Robin said. “A whole string of feature stories about video games. Or, well, one video game. And one team of...video game players. Is that what they’re called?” Regina shrugged. “I have no idea. Ask Killian in a week. He should know by then.”

Killian’s head was spinning – and he was fairly certain it wasn’t because of the vertigo he may or may not have been experiencing. He was breathing through his mouth again. And that time wasn’t on purpose.

He pushed out of the chair, walking back behind Regina’s desk and ignoring Robin’s quiet gasp of surprise that he even dared to move over whatever unspoken barrier he’d just crossed. Regina’s eyebrow shifted again. “What the hell is going on, Gina?” he barked. “The truth this time.”

And just like that, the facade cracked a bit – eyebrows returning to their biologically determined place and glare softening just a bit and for half a second Killian was almost convinced she was going to move her fingers to try and brush towards his left hand before she stopped herself.

“You called Robin,” Regina started. “And told him about The Herald and, well, you couldn’t expect that we wouldn’t do something. We had to do something. He would have wanted…”

“Stop it,” Killian warned, but she didn’t. Of course she didn’t. Regina Mills wasn’t concerned with empty threats. Or ghosts.

She moved again and, that time, she did reach forward, wrapping her fingers around his left forearm and tugging forcefully like she was trying to get him to understand.

“We had to do something,” she repeated. “And it’s not like we’re not without money here. The problem is that the money isn’t in news. We’ve got that covered. There is, however, a staffer spot open in lifestyles.” “Lifestyles!” “Killian, if you interrupt me again, I’m going to cut your keycard in half.” “That doesn’t really mean much to me. And I can’t be official yet, I haven’t filled out a W-4. Nothing’s official until there are taxes involved.” “You’re very frustrating when you’re sarcastic.” “Charming.” “And it’s a defense mechanism,” Robin mumbled.

Killian shrugged. “That too,” he admitted. “Why lifestyles? Honestly. I’m not really qualified to write fluff.” “You’re qualified to write,” Regina said. “And I resent the implication that anything we publish is fluff.” “Is that you or your mom talking? And there’s a story in your lifestyles section today questioning the merits of merlot over other wines.” Regina’s eyes flashed, the mention of Cora having its desired effect and he’d absolutely done it as some kind of glorified defense. If he got her mad he wouldn’t have to talk and he could ignore the idea of what he’d wanted when he got into all of this.

Jaded.

He was jaded and angry and news was all of those with some homicides occasionally thrown in.

“I think what you’re trying to say is that you’re reading the lifestyles section of the site,” Regina said, bypassing any mention of her mother. “Did you click on the story? That’d help with hits.” “I did not,” Killian laughed. “Just skimmed headlines.” “You’re the worst kind of reader.” “Make me pay for content then.” “Don’t say that out loud, that’s like muttering Bloody Mary in the mirror three times. Any mention of the money automatically summons my mother.”

Killian barked out a laugh, leaning against the windows behind him and crossing his arms. Regina smiled. “Ok, Gina, I’ll bite. What am I supposed to be doing here?” “Lifestyles,” she answered, waving a dismissive hand through the air when he rolled his eyes at the repetition. “But not really lifestyles. It’s only going there because it doesn’t really make sense in entertainment and it’s not really sports, although they’ll probably argue with you on that front.” “It is called e-sports,” Robin said, twisting to join the conversation again. “It’s, technically, a sport. A tournament if you want to be specific.” “I thought you said video games,” Killian said. It sounded exactly like the accusation it was. He wanted the truth. And maybe another coffee.

“I did. What I didn’t say because you were too busy throwing a temper tantrum over what section your story would fall under was that the video games are insanely competitive and insanely popular which is why there’s even an interest in stories about them.” “There was no temper tantrum. There was...confusion.” “Temper. Tantrum,” Robin grinned. “It doesn’t matter. I knew you’d take it anyway.” “Because of the aforementioned health benefits?” “No. Because it’s going to be a good story and that’s all you’ve ever really wanted to do.”

Killian licked his lips, tilting his head back until he hit it against a pane of glass and that was good, if it hurt it meant he was actually there, in that office, with the only two people in the entire world who would dare say anything like that to him. It would have been kind of weird if that whole morning had been a dream.

“And trust me,” Robin pressed. “This is a good story. Plus, apparently Henry and Roland are thrilled at the idea of you covering it because they play this game and think you can get them insider info on how to level-up or something.” “And you said I was the old man before,” Killian muttered. “You already told Henry and Roland I was going to do this? That feels like coercion.” “A calculated bargaining technique.” “Ok, so what exactly does this entail? Didn’t you say it was a whole bunch of stories?” Robin nodded. “A year. With benefits. And the potential for job growth. Outside of lifestyles. So, you know, consider all of that. Plus, Rol and Henry are super excited.”

“Why?” “Why are Roland and Henry excited? It’s a super popular game.” “No, no, no,” Killian said. “Why are you guys doing this?” Robin and Regina stared at him like he’d suddenly grown sixteen heads and suggested that the Earth was flat. Or like they’d offered him a year-long gig covering an e-sports whatever he’d never heard of – with benefits – and probably ignored Cora’s objections to even the idea of him setting foot in that downtown office.

And the answer was so obvious it was like it had grown legs and then proceeded to smack each of them in the face.

Because Liam would have wanted us to.

“How come you wore a jacket to a not-real-interview that you didn’t even want to come to?” Regina countered. Killian glared at her.

Because Liam would have wanted me to.

“Fine,” he said, tugging on his hair again. “I’ll probably have to ask Rol and Henry how the game works.”

“They’re banking on that,” Robin smiled. “And you’re sure? I mean, contrary to popular belief we’re not actually forcing you to take a byline. Or benefits.” “You’re really pushing that benefits thing aren’t you?” “It’s a good plan.” “Sure it is,” Killian scoffed. “And, yeah, I’m sure. You already gave me the keycard anyway, seems a waste to have to cut that up or whatever you do to returned keycards.” “Probably cut it up.” “Then, yeah. I’m in. Let’s cover video games like that’s something people do.”

He spent the rest of the day signing paperwork and learning systems and actually reading that merlot story and by the time Killian made it back uptown to the overpriced hotel he was paying for, he all but collapsed on the over-starched sheets.

And he was fairly positive he’d only just shut his eyes when he heard the phone ring, jerking him out of a dream he couldn’t quite remember. Killian reached out blindly, refusing to give credence to the sunlight filtering through the curtains, and he nearly knocked the phone off the nightstand, mumbling a scratchy hello into the receiver.

“Mr. Jones?” a perky voice on the other end asked, as if expecting to find another person in the room registered to Killian Jones.

“Yeah.” That gave the perky voice pause. “Uh,” she stuttered and there was laughter in the background. Killian resisted the urge to groan. Loudly. “There’s a gentleman down here. Says he knows you and you’re expecting him.”

He hadn’t actually opened his eyes yet, but Killian squeezed them tighter anyway and the perky voice might have gasped when he did actually groan at her. He should have figured. If Robin and Regina were plotting, then it only made sense that Will Scarlet was in on it too.

“Yeah, yeah, it’s fine,” Killian mumbled, finally opening his eyes and immediately regretting that decision. “You can send him up or whatever.” “He, uh, well he says to tell you he would have come up anyway, but he was…” “Doing me a solid,” Killian finished. “Yeah, I bet he was. Thanks.” “Of course.” They were back to perky. “Is there anything else I can do for you, Mr. Jones?”

Scarlet was hysterical and Killian would have bet several thousand dollars he absolutely did not have that he was also resting on the lobby desk and possibly clutching his stomach in some kind of dramatic motion that he came up with when he was nineteen.

“No,” Killian said. “Thanks.” “Have a great day!” Not likely. He’d signed all that paperwork and agreed to dinner with Robin and Regina which also meant dinner with Henry and Roland and that meant several hours in some sort of whirlwind video game crash course discussing the rules of some game called Over...something. He should probably remember the name of the game.

And he’d fallen asleep quickly and easily, but only because he was told, in no uncertain terms by Regina, that he had a ten o’clock appointment in Midtown with this video game team that he absolutely, could not miss.

She must have sent Scarlet to make sure he didn’t.

Or...no, it couldn’t have been that. Even Regina wouldn’t do that. She wasn’t trying to drive him insane.

Probably.

Oh, shit that’s totally what was happening.

Will must have sprinted up the stairs or taken the quickest elevator in the history of the world, already knocking on Killian’s door. He groaned, resigning himself to whatever plan for his life was, apparently, being formed without his explicit consent, and managed to grab a shirt off the top of his bag before swinging open the door. Will was mid-knock.

“Hey, Hook,” Will said, a picture of sarcastic chipper nonsense that made Killian clench his fist. “Welcome home.” “You’re an ass,” Killian muttered. Will laughed again, pushing his way into the room with, at least, four different cameras slung over both of his shoulders. So, that was definitely happening.

Will sank onto the corner of the bed, a knowing smile on his face as if he’d just feasted on an entire table of canaries. “Dynamic duo or something,” he said. “I hate that, so don’t use that again.” “I’m only going to use that now,” Killian said, slamming the door behind him.

“Pot and kettle.” “What?” “You called me an ass, which is a great reintroduction after ignoring the city for the last ten years, by the way. So, pot and kettle.” “That’s not how that cliché goes,” Killian pointed out. Will shrugged. “And I saw you at Christmas.”

In retrospect, that was probably when Robin and Regina first started plotting this whole thing – he’d shown up to the Mills family estate in Vermont just a few hours before midnight on Christmas Eve, exhausted with bags under his eyes that were big enough to check, and complained about fewer bylines and a lack of ink and a lack of ads which all circled back to the fewer bylines thing. No one wanted to print the paper if no one wanted to buy the paper.

Will had tried to get him to take some photos, certain if he’d just expand his skill set he’d be more appealing to a wider variety of publishers and printing syndicates.

Killian had not-so-politely refused. And then called Will an ass.

“That doesn’t count,” Will argued. “You were in and out in, like, a day and a half. You’re in this for the long haul now, right?” “Because I’m being plied with an admittedly pretty good benefits plan.”

“C’mon. Don’t be like that. This is going to be fun. You’re telling me you’re not actually interested in professional video game players?” “Only in so much as finding out how they actually make a living.” Will made a face. “You wound me, Hook. This is a cool story. It’s totally in your wheelhouse of interests. Or, you know, it should be.” “Don’t do that,” Killian growled.

Will didn’t back down. And he shouldn’t have been surprised. Regina wasn’t going to put up with any of Killian’s shit, but Scarlet was a close second in being decidedly unamused by any of this. It probably had something to do with living together – answering a CraigsList ad because Hunter didn’t provide housing and Liam had already been sent overseas and Killian wanted out of the shoebox.

The apartment he and Will lived in wasn’t much better, didn’t even have an oven in it, but they were eighteen and it felt like some kind of palace at the time.

It also left Will positive he knew Killian better than anyone.

“Regina thinks you’re up here because you’re wallowing,” Will said, shifting so his half a dozen cameras were resting on the bed as well.

“Regina needs to stop gossipping.” “It’s the journalist in her, she can’t help herself. At least you’re not living in the Mills-Locksley household. Imagine all that talking.” “Terrifying.” Will grinned, shoulders shaking slightly with the force of his laughter. “All that support and mutual adult’dom,” he chuckled. “The worst. Plus those kids adding the adorable. It’s just disgusting.”

“No one needs that,” Killian sighed, running a hand over his face and he’d slept for what felt like days, but he was, suddenly, exhausted. “So, dynamic duo’ing, huh? She give you a choice of gigs or you volunteer to follow me around for a year?” “Please, I’m not following you around. I’m following a good story. Although watching you rejoin the human race is some kind of unexpected bonus.” “Did I evolve into another species without realizing it?” Will nodded. “Killian Jones, suddenly very good at coming up with adjectives for blood.” “Lacerations.” “See.” “How come you brought all that gear?” Killian asked. “I thought we were just going to meet with these people. Background or whatever.” “Yeah, but you never know when the mood’s going to strike and we’re going in the middle of a practice. It could be pretty good stuff, actually.” “Practice?” “What part of professional athletes are you not understanding here?” “See,” he shook his head. “That’s just not right. It’s not like they’re burning calories or anything. This is...this is not a real thing.” “I would suggest you don’t tell them that. And then do some basic research in the cab. Because they may not be running sprints, but they’re making money like they’re professional athletes. You know what the base salary for this league is?”

“It’s a league?” “Tournament’s probably a better word, but that’s also a question you should ask the athletes. Killian, did you even listen to a single thing Regina told you?” He hadn’t. He’d listened to what Roland and Henry said about the rules and the character sayings that were, admittedly, just a bit annoying when he heard them several dozen times in the span of a few hours at dinner, but he hadn’t really paid attention to the angle, fairly positive he could, at least, come up with his own in on a story.

“Idiot,” Will muttered, but there was a familiarity in his voice that sent a very specific pang of something down Killian’s spine. “Go shower, you look like shit and you don’t want to offend the sources as soon as they lay eyes on you.” Killian kicked him, blaming old habits or something that didn’t make him feel like he was a teenager. “They’re professional video game players,” he reasoned. “I highly doubt they’ll be offended by much of anything.” “You got to check those assumptions at the door, man.” “What do you know that I don’t?” “Trust me, it’ll be more fun if you just go in ignorant.” “For you maybe,” Killian accused, pushing away from the set of drawers he’d been leaning against. Will hummed in agreement. “Hey, what’s the salary? You said there was a base.” Will grinned like he’d suddenly found another canary he hadn’t stuffed in his face already. “Fifty thousand,” he answered simply. Killian felt his jaw drop slightly and he wished he was still leaning on something. “Yup,” Will said, popping his lips on the syllable. “Seriously, go shower. I wasn’t kidding about you looking like shit.”

Killian wasn’t sure what he expected when he heard professional video game practices, but he was fairly positive a Midtown Irish bar was fairly low on his list of ideas. He glanced skeptically at Will who hadn’t stopped grinning the entire time they made it downtown, even laughing once when Killian started grumbling about tourists in midtown.

“You’re an old man,” Will chuckled, pushing on Killian’s shoulder to move him towards the door of the bar. There were voices coming from inside – screams might have been more appropriate.

Killian swung open the door, closing his eyes when a blast of air conditioning rushed towards them and the screams were actually shouts of something that sounded a bit like triumph.

No one can hide from my sight!

Will was barely staying upright, arm wrapped tightly around his waist when he noticed the look on Killian’s face. He shook his head, not sure what to focus on – every screen sitting on the bar was hooked up to the game, six stools pressed up against the far wall with half a dozen women sitting there, each one wearing headsets and feet propped up on even more stools.

Their fingers were moving a mile a minute on actual keyboards and one of them – a brunette with bright, red streaks in her hair – was yelling at the woman three seats to her right, leaning forward to bark orders. “Don’t move,” she shouted and the other woman, another brunette, rolled her eyes. “I’m serious, Belle. Do not move!” “I know how the game works!” “Oh my God, Rubes, shut up,” someone else screamed, kicking at air and Killian hoped she wasn’t aiming for the woman next to her. She didn’t really come close. “Belle knows how to play. We all know how to play.”

Rubes – that couldn't be her name – stuck her tongue out, but she didn’t pull her eyes away from the screen and something must have happened because there was more yelling and more orders shouted and a string of sound effects that came pouring out of the five TV screens above the bar.

“What is happening right now?” Killian whispered, leaning back towards a still-amused Will who already had one of his cameras pointed at the line of women in front of them.

“See, I told you it’d be more fun if you came into this ignorant. You’re going to want to come up with something good if you don’t want me to give Regina this picture of you reacting to that one blonde lady screaming.” “What?” “Phone camera. On silent. Deceptive.”

“No, I don’t care about that. What blonde one?” “The one you’re staring at. Still.” Killian blinked – he had been. He hadn’t even turned towards Will when he asked his initial question, not quite willing to pull his gaze away from the woman a few feet in front of him. There were spots of red on her cheek and a piece of hair flying across her face, moving every time she jerked her forehead and mumbled a string of curses under her breath and he couldn’t quite catch his breath.

That wasn’t part of the deal at all.

This wasn’t what he expected at all.

“They were supposed to be professional video game players,” Killian hissed, finally pulling his eyes away and glaring at Will like this was, somehow, his fault.

“They are,” he said slowly. And then he took another picture. “I’ll call this one, lovestruck Killian Jones. It’ll probably win awards.” “Shut up. Why are they…” “Women?” “Shut up,” Killian repeated. “But, well, yeah.” Will stuffed his phone back in his pocket and Killian was glad – until Scarlet used his now-free fist to punch him in the shoulder. “You know they still have opposable thumbs, right? I don’t think gender dictates an innate ability to play video games. And you seem suddenly very interested in your subject matter. Don’t say shut up again, I’m enjoying this way too much.”

“Shoot, shoot, shoot, Emma, God, shoot,” the red-streaked brunette yelled, elbowing the woman next to her and drawing back Killian’s attention.

Her name was Emma.

“Ruby, I know how to play the game,” Emma groaned, smashing a string of buttons. Bomb’s away! “Ha,” she shouted in triumph, punching the air as soon as the shot hit and, according to the sound effects, exploded. “Take that fucking assholes!”

Will laughed, not quite able to turn the sound into a cough or the silence it probably should have been since they’d been lurking in the doorway for the last five minutes. Emma spun at the noise, gaze sharp and shoulders straight and Killian couldn't see anything except how green her eyes were and how blonde her hair was, curling lightly at the ends that were draped over the front of an NYPD t-shirt.

“Can I help you?” she asked. “The restaurant doesn’t open for another couple of hours.” “No, no, we’re not here for the restaurant,” Killian said quickly, elbowing Will when he didn’t stop laughing immediately. “I’m Killian Jones and this is Will Scarlet. We’re here from The Boston... sorry, The Daily Caller. For the story?” Emma twisted her eyebrows. “Was that a question?” “Only in the realm of politeness. You know, ease our way into the conversation.” “Yuh huh.” “Did you not know about the story?” “I knew about the story,” Emma said, just a bit sharper than her original greeting had been. This was not going well. Killian ran his hand through his hair. “Did you say Boston?” “Yeah,” he mumbled. “Force of habit.” “The city of Boston is forcing you to mention it? Are they sponsoring you?” “That was funny. You know you haven’t actually told me your name yet.” “Ruby shouted it two seconds ago.” “First names are only half the story, love,” Killian said and he was an asshole because he was smirking at her and his hand was still stuck halfway through his hair and Emma was staring at him like she couldn’t quite believe he was actually standing there. Neither could he, really.

“Absolutely not your love,” she said, practically snarling out the words. “And my last name is Swan. I’m assuming you need that for the story.” “It does help with quotes when you can identify who’s talking.” “You didn’t give me an answer about Boston.” “Are you always so demanding?” Killian asked. “I feel like I’m the one being interviewed.”

The peanut gallery behind them snickered slightly, headsets pulled to one side so they could hear and Ruby had moved in front of the other brunette she’d been shouting at before. There were three other women – a petite blonde whose feet barely reached the bottom rung of the stool she was sitting on, another blonde with hair that was so light it was nearly white and an auburn-haired woman whose face looked a bit similar to the white-haired blonde and this was all very confusing.

Emma’s eyes were very green.

“When it’s my team, yeah,” Emma said, crossing her arms over her shirt and rocking towards him. Or maybe that was wishful thinking. That was, decidedly, dangerous thinking. “Why the Boston sponsorship?” “I used to work for a paper in Boston,” Killian answered. “I only recently started at The Daily Caller.” “How recent is recent?” “More demands, Swan.” She pressed her lips together tightly, rocking back on her heels and Killian regretted that far more than he should have. “You’ve got a nickname thing,” she accused. “That’s weird.” “You’re a professional video game player.” “And?” “And in the realm of weird…” “You know this is a pretty shitty first impression.” “Yeah, I’m getting that,” Killian admitted. “Backtrack?” Emma shrugged. “Ok,” he said, pushing his right hand towards her and that was the first time her eyes had dropped away from his. And landed, quite quickly, on his distinct lack of a left hand. Will made some kind of strangled noise in the back of his throat and the unnamed auburn-haired lady might have gasped.

Killian tried to smile, fairly certain it didn’t work as soon as he saw the look on Emma’s face. “Killian Jones,” he said, twisting his wrist slightly and he didn’t think he imagined the idea of a smile flash across her lips. “Lifestyles writer at The Daily Caller, here to profile your pro video game team for the foreseeable future. I think we can tell some really good stories.”

Emma’s eyebrows shifted, darting up her forehead as she glanced over her shoulder towards her teammates. They all smiled. Ruby nodded towards Killian’s outstretched hand, grimacing in what looked like pain, but might have been some kind of unspoken code.

“I thought we were backtracking, Swan,” Killian continued.

She scoffed, turning back on him and she was all green eyes and the headset was threatening to fall off her head, but she met his gaze straight on and he wanted to know everything about her. He couldn't remember the last time he wanted to do that with someone who wasn’t covered in several different adjectives for blood.

He probably shouldn’t say that out loud.

“See, that nickname again,” she muttered, but she was smiling. Honest to goodness smiling. And her fingers were freezing cold when they brushed across his. “Emma Swan, team captain. And we better tell some goddamn great stories.”

[f-shipping]

Shipping Services, Cargo Shipping Service in Dubai

In a variety of vessel-related activities and duties, marine services are crucial. These services are intended to assist in controlling the flow of vessel traffic, accomplish safer manoeuvring and berthing of boats, and even provide protection and efficiency for ports or the marine industry. Offshore vessel operators that are currently in operation frequently offer these services. There are many various kinds of supply offshore services vessel operators, including those that offer services for supply, maintenance, logistics, and several other operating needs. Given their role in the sector, these vessel operators are capable of demonstrating effectiveness and high calibre performance. Here, we go over the various maritime services that operators of offshore vessels provide. For more information, keep reading.

1. Dive Support

Supporting different nautical projects and activities is one of the most typical services provided by offshore boats. These services are frequently tailored to meet the needs of diving operations. Securing and hooking up the vessel during diving operations is the main duty of offshore boats in dive support. Effective anchor mooring techniques are frequently used in the service. How operate mooring systems? The mooring line for this system is constructed from fibre ropes, chains, wires, or any combination of these materials. The water depth may affect the materials utilised. During operations, mooring lines' anchors are fixed to the bottom, restricting vessel movement.

Maritime services are vital to the economies of many nations. These services have had a significant impact on the supply chain and economic expansion of the United States. From the domestic market to the international one, they are integral to the end-to-end trade activities. hence permitting the ongoing flow of supplies and materials for the nation's industrial sectors. American marine services are frequently offered at Chalmette, Newark, and other locations. Similar to this, Australia's marine sector has significantly boosted the country's economy. Many major cities, like Darwin, Perth, Brisbane, Dampier, and many more, rely heavily on offshore services for their shipping and trading needs. A variety of maritime services are provided by them, including assistance for oil and gas operations, engineering and project management, transmission and production of renewable energy, offshore construction and installation, offshore surveying and positioning, etc.

2. Offshore Accommodation

Existing boats are provided for supply offshore services workforce via offshore lodgings. The majority of marine businesses require sufficient room to accommodate their sizable workforce. Operators of offshore vessels supply this accommodation, which is necessary, by housing and sheltering surplus and current offshore personnel, using module decks. 

These lodging vessels give staff a permanent or alternate place to sleep in addition to numerous other amenities through the use of dynamic and adaptable facility quarters or stations. In this approach, marine businesses may maintain operations while simultaneously giving their staff higher standards of living and comfort. 

Both the amount of space and the number of staff might change depending on the projects being undertaken. It will be up to the operators of offshore vessels to purchase and modify the necessary lodging facilities.

3. Transhipping and Supply

Transhipping and supply offshore services is the process of moving different types of cargo from one vessel to another. This type of maritime service is also offered by offshore vessel operators to aid finish the transfer of containers or cargo. 

Additionally, in order to serve the production and operational demands of mineral and energy resource extraction, this maritime service may handle the carrying and transportation of persons, supplies, and equipment. This might contain gasoline, freshwater, liquid mud, dry bulk, etc. supplies. 

4. Oil and Gas Field Support

Operators of offshore vessels assist the oil and gas sectors in the oil field as well. This maritime service performs tasks associated with drilling to extract hydrocarbons from the sea floor and oil and gas exploration. Lifting off boats above water level using jack-up equipment is another offshore vessel service associated with these activities; these installations are also utilised for offshore wind farms.

Vessel tenders and floating platform installations are a couple of the additional associated services it may offer for oil and gas field assistance. Support is given by these floating platforms and tenders, particularly while doing exploration work.

5. Standby Operations

Rescue and response vessels and services are crucial as offshore industries heavily rely on evacuation and emergency procedures. In order to properly carry out evacuation plans and prompt reactions during crises, offshore vessel operators that provide standby operating services must provide extra facilities and equipment. 

Search and rescue, first aid, and safety monitoring through approaching vessel alerts are all capabilities of standby operating services. They also include all the amenities required for survival and medical attention in some unanticipated underwater situations. 

6. Geo Survey

Geo-survey activities are another marine service that supply offshore services vessel operators provide. These are what? Data from geo surveys is used for a variety of operations, including wind farm construction and mining exploration. High-resolution data and mapping of the form, condition, and geological composition of the seabed are provided by geo surveys. Geophysical and geotechnical offshore geo surveys are the two types available. The primary purpose of geophysical surveys is to guarantee that projects and developments near water depths are sufficiently safe to minimise or eliminate danger for offshore developers and others of a similar kind. However, geotechnical surveys, which are mainly required for the oil and gas sector and other associated operations, are in charge of sampling and testing soil foundations and properties.

Conclusion

Different maritime sectors benefit from the various services that offshore vessel operators offer. In addition to the aforementioned services, they are still capable of providing more. Understanding the various services provided will assist create a general picture of how these offshore vessel operators like Focal Shipping can meet the requirements of a particular project or offshore activities. 

[ronniescleaning]

New cleaning products and technologies for commercial offices

In the bustling business landscape of Darwin, maintaining a clean and hygienic office space is essential. Commercial cleaning services in Darwin are essential to maintaining workplace cleanliness, and they now have a wealth of cutting-edge cleaning tools at their disposal. We'll look at some of the most recent developments that are improving the effectiveness, efficiency, and environmental friendliness of commercial office cleaning.

High-Tech Cleaning Equipment

Modern cleaning equipment is now used by commercial cleaning services in Darwin. To ensure a thorough and effective cleaning process, cutting-edge steam cleaners, floor scrubbers and hoover cleaners are employed. These devices not only save time, but also clean more thoroughly and hygienically.

UV-C Sterilization

Technology utilizing ultraviolet C (UV-C) has entered the commercial cleaning sector. Office spaces are left clean and sanitized thanks to the use of UV-C light, which eliminates harmful microorganisms like viruses and bacteria. This is particularly crucial in the modern era of increased health and safety concerns.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

The transition to eco-friendly cleaning products reflects Darwin's dedication to environmental sustainability. Commercial cleaning services now employ environmentally friendly and safe for human health and the environment cleaning agents that are biodegradable and non-toxic.

Electrostatic Sprayers

In terms of disinfection, electrostatic sprayers have revolutionized the field. They give the disinfectant solution a positive charge that makes it stick to surfaces and effectively kill germs. This technology ensures even coverage and reduces the need for excessive chemical use.

 Smart Cleaning Systems

Commercial cleaning now uses IoT, or the Internet of Things. Sensors and data analysis are used by smart cleaning systems to manage resources effectively, identify high-traffic areas, and optimize cleaning schedules. This results in cost savings and a cleaner, well-maintained office environment.

 Robotics

Cleaning robots are no longer a thing of the future. In Darwin, some commercial cleaning services employ robotic cleaners that can navigate office spaces, detect obstacles, and clean autonomously. They're not just efficient but also a talking point in the office.

Touchless Fixtures and Dispensers

In the era of minimizing physical contact, touchless fixtures and soap dispensers have become a standard feature in many commercial offices. These hands-free solutions help maintain cleanliness and reduce the spread of germs.

 Enhanced Air Purification

With Darwin's unique climate, air quality is of utmost importance. Advanced air purifiers and ventilation systems are integrated into the cleaning process, ensuring that the office air is fresh and clean.

In conclusion, commercial cleaning services in Darwin are embracing these new products and technologies to provide a cleaner, safer, and more eco-friendly environment for businesses. The synergy of innovation and cleanliness is a testament to the city's commitment to a healthier workplace.

By incorporating these cutting-edge tools and products, commercial cleaning services in Darwin are not only meeting the demands of modern businesses but also contributing to a more sustainable and healthier office environment. If you are looking for any commercial cleaning services in Darwin. Ronnie’s cleaning is professional cleaning company in Darwin can help you to find the perfect cost-effective solutions without missing out in quality to achieve optimum results 

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The Keegan Group: Pioneering Traffic Management Solutions in Darwin

The Keegan Group is leading the way in traffic management, an area that is always changing in Darwin's fast-changing terrain of constant urban growth and infrastructural development. Darwin's growing population makes it more and more necessary to find effective and long-lasting traffic solutions. Leading this endeavor is The Keegan Group, which provides a wide range of Traffic Management Darwin services provided by highly skilled experts.

A Reliable Traffic Management Partner

 With years of experience under its belt, the Keegan Group has established itself as a trustworthy partner to some of the most reputable and well-known businesses in the Northern Territory's maintenance and construction sectors. Their large clientele attests to their reputation, skill, and high caliber of service; they often provide excellent traffic control solutions that raise the bar in the area . Customized Responses to Address Various Needs

The Keegan Group's approach centers on a strong dedication to comprehending the particular objectives and demands of each client. We think that tailored approaches that target certain issues and objectives work better than universal ones. The Keegan Group guarantees that its solutions not only fulfill but also surpass client expectations by upholding transparent channels of communication and encouraging cooperative partnerships.

All-inclusive Services Provided

The Keegan Group offers a broad range of Traffic Management Darwin services in its extensive service portfolio. Their experience spans a wide range, from event management and intelligent transportation network installation to traffic control and traffic management planning. Their knowledgeable staff expertly handles the complexities of each endeavor, providing dependable, reasonably priced solutions that give clients peace of mind and confidence in their choices.

Safety Comes First and Always

Every aspect of The Keegan Group's operations is infused with a strong emphasis on safety. They understand that everyone's safety, including their traffic controllers, contractors, clients, and community members, is essential to the success of any traffic control project. They have implemented rigorous training programs, adhered to industry standards, and employed state-of-the-art safety tools and methods to do this. Clients can relax in the knowledge that their projects will be completed with the utmost caution, strict respect to regulations, and lowest risk, all while ensuring a safe working environment. Networks for autonomous vehicles

Intelligent transportation networks are being developed in Darwin thanks in large part to the work of the Keegan Group. These innovative ideas enable enhanced collaboration and real-time monitoring by seamlessly integrating several elements of the city's infrastructure, including traffic lights, sensors, and surveillance cameras. By improving safer and more effective traffic management, this integrated strategy establishes Darwin as a pioneer in projects related to smart cities. All-inclusive Line-Marking Services

Along with their expertise in controlling traffic, the Keegan Group provides an extensive array of line marking services. Their crew is adept at handling a wide range of line marking requirements with accuracy and professionalism, from distant community projects and pedestrian crossings to loading zones, disabled bays, line marking removal, water blasting, sandblasting, and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station installations.

A Reliable ally for Superior Traffic Management

The Keegan Group is a reliable choice as Traffic Management Darwin's partner. From meticulous planning to flawless execution, each aspect of the company's operations reflects its commitment to quality, compliance, and client happiness. The comprehensive solutions offered by The Keegan Group, involving real-time monitoring, road sign installation, traffic flow optimization, and strategic planning, increase efficiency and security during construction projects. A collaborative environment that fosters success is fostered by their open communication and hands-on approach, which guarantee that clients are kept informed and involved at every stage of the project.

Developing Darwin's Traffic Management Future

The Keegan Group remains at the forefront of offering innovative traffic control solutions that put safety, efficiency, and sustainability first as Darwin continues to change and accept progress. The Keegan Group, with a group of dedicated and experienced professionals, is well-positioned to influence the direction of traffic management in the Northern Territory and establish new standards for quality and creativity in the sector.

Get in touch with the Keegan Group right now to find out more about how their cutting-edge traffic control systems may assist you in navigating Darwin's ever-changing landscape and support your initiatives.