#of them having our info and refusing to let us use their service or properly Stop using their service. wtf man | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

lisinfleur · 3 years

Text

How love looks like

The request:

Author’s Notes | I hope you like the result, love!

Universe | Vikings

Pairing | Ivar x Reader, Reader’s daughter

Info | Viking Age AU, requested by anon for 5CW Ivar vol. II, posted for HTGI event

Words | 1619

⁑ Warnings: Mentinos to pain, possible incorrect quotes or informations about Ivar’s condition.

She was trembling when she came into my hall for the first time.

"King Ivar."

Even her voice was trembling. I could bet her fingers were cold, although the package in her hands was made of warm blankets. Her dress was ragged here and there, and her hair wasn't properly braided. But her beauty was undeniable.

However, what caught my eyes wasn't her pretty face but the way she approached my throne, bending enough so I could see the little face contorting itself, essaying a cry.

"I beg you... Please help me," she said, eyes teary.

Her hands unfolded the blanket making my eyes large. It was only a second before she folded the blankets around the little girl once again, hiding the twisted bones of her legs from the cold that made the child start cooing, annoyed.

I saw that woman clinging to that package as if her whole life was inside those blankets. And, for a moment, that scene made me remember my mother.

"You lived through it," that woman's voice woke me out of my memories, allowing me to notice the obvious difference between her and my beautiful mother. "I beg you mercy, my lord. Teach me, please. I want her to live. I know she can live! Her father doesn't believe the gods enough, but I saw what they did to you. You've done it. Please, my lord, teach me how to help her."

She didn't want her daughter to survive. No. Mother wanted me to survive. She wanted me to be there for her. That woman wanted her daughter to be like me...

She wanted her daughter to live.

"This Thing is over. I have matters to solve," I said, dismissing the other citizens.

My eyes on her, seeing how strongly she was fighting the tears. Her fear that I wouldn't help stamped on her face.

An expression that vanished completely when I caught my crutch, getting up to walk towards her.

"Bring the girl inside, woman. First lesson you need to learn: it is never warm enough for her."

Her tears broke down, but she nodded. And I could see the determination in her eyes, shining with hope and gratitude over me.

We placed the little girl inside my room, and she slept on my bed while her mother and I sat for a talk.

I discovered her name was Y/N. The little girl she named Eira seeking Eir's mercy over the little one. The bastard she once called a husband expelled them when she refused to leave the little girl to the wolves telling him king Ivar was a great man even being like her.

I was great in her eyes. I was the reason why she had faith her little girl could be someone. Something more than her father's shame...

She asked me for a place to serve in my castle since she had no place to live. I gave her the servant room beside mine and offered to serve me for a payment she could use to sustain herself and her little girl.

She accepted those crumbs as if I was saving her life.

The next day she had her little girl tied to her chest, cleaning and organizing everything I told her to.

During her work, I observed how lovely she was towards that tiny thing tied to her chest, sometimes dancing, sometimes making unnecessary rounds with the broom, everything to keep the little child entertained. The twisted little legs tightly kept against Y/N's chest as she restrained her own movements to avoid hurting her little girl.

That woman was different from anything I'd ever seen. Even from my mother - who would do nothing but care about me, neglecting my brothers, and sometimes herself, to keep me alive. Y/N was doing everything for her daughter, but as soon as the little one was asleep, I saw her brushing her own hair, messing with her clothes to find out the holes and sew them, eating properly from the portions I send to her; ensuring to be healthy and strong to care for the girl she carried around like a little treasure.

It touched my heart one day at a time.

And when the pain came and I saw Y/N in despair, lulling the little Eira trying to make her sleep, I came into her room sitting on the simple bed she would spend her nights on, and extending my arms towards her.

Her eyes were full of faith when she delivered the little Eira in my hands, observing as I gently placed the little one on the basked, moving her legs as little as possible until they were well supported and warmed by the blankets around her. With my fingers, I mashed some of my own herbs letting drops of the bitter juice fall into the little one's mouth, observing as it slowly did its job, relieving the pain and allowing Eira to fall asleep.

It was the first time I saw Y/N crumble in front of me, bitting her lips to cry in silence the anguish of her little girl's pain but also the relief of seeing she was finally tranquil.

I would see that several times. I would help Y/N to immobilize Eira's broken little legs properly to prevent them from healing the wrong way. I would help her to care for the little one's wounds when they came. And when nothing would help Eira's pain, I would help Y/N's to hold on to her faith that the gods had granted her daughter a better fate.

Whenever that little child slept after my touch, I felt a little like Harbard, taking away her pain like he'd done for me when I was younger. But, unlike me, Eira had my knowledge to help her grow better. To help her suffer less.

I didn't see when that little girl and her mother invaded my heart. Y/N learned from me to care for her child, but I saw her using what she'd learned several times to care for me instead.

She was the one providing my teas, helping with my wounds, sewing protections to make my braces more comfortable...

Relieving my pain. My loneliness.

Standing beside me even in my worst days, Y/N became someone I couldn't see myself without. Someone I didn't want to see myself without. And along with her, Eira also became a part of my life, making my heart melt when she started dragging herself around my hall like I used to do, imitating so soon the ways I had fought so hard to learn by myself.

She would come to me full of trust and laugh at me so easy!

Sometimes she wouldn't sleep if I wasn't near. Sometimes I would hear Y/N telling her my story, painting me as some kind of hero Eira was starting to follow.

And it would make me proud.

Y/N made me proud of what was once my worst shame. She made me feel I wasn't incomplete, nor half of a man. She made me feel my whole life had sense, meaning.

I'd come like that, with my twisted legs and pain, cause the gods knew my mind was gifted. The gods knew I would create ways to live.

And now, my ways were making Eira's life possible.

Better.

Easier.

Slowly, I took Y/N more and more from the service of the hall. Soon, she was something like a personal servant to me. She would go anywhere I would go, and I wouldn't want anyone but her around when I was moody or living a bad day.

She became my relief as much as I once was hers.

It was inevitable to fall in love with that woman. To bring her into my life. To want her as my queen.

"I want you, Y/N. I want Eira. And I don't want to ever hear about your ex-husband once again. He's nothing but past. He's nobody. She's my little girl, and this is how I want things to be now."

She didn't argue. But I could see it wasn't the initial fear that prevented her from arguing with me or trying to contradict my arguments. Y/N's fingers touched my face that night and she touched our foreheads with tenderness.

"I wouldn't want any different," I remember she said.

Her nose nuzzling against mine in a caress I would discover it was my favorite sensation in Midgard.

"Eira is my gift from the gods. And they've decided to bless me again with you."

Now my little Eira was twelve years old. Her little braces were reproductions of mine, in a smaller size. She couldn't run around with the other children, but she would spend hours playing hnefatafl with me, making me the best company I could ever want.

She was definitely better than I ever was. Always filling our hearts with joy whenever she would play with her two little brothers the gods had blessed me with.

I'd noticed her blood-father walking around sometimes, looking at her at the market or observing as she would easily walk with her crutch around, sometimes trying to go a little faster than she really could just to show me something she wanted or giggle with her usual playful tone. I could see he regretted his mistake, but I never gave him a chance to approach, always looking at him with blues icy cold. A warning that it was too late for his excuses.

Y/N and Eira were mine now. My little princess, my queen.

They’d become my treasures.

And his time to claim back what he'd left was long gone.

#history vikings #imagine vikings #ivar #ivar the boneless #ivar x reader #ivar ragnarsson #daddy ivar #ivar’s heathen army #sister wives #shot #htgi

189 notes · View notes

x0401x · 4 years

Text

Violet Evergarden Movie Summary

The initial plan was to make this a short bullet-point thing, but I felt like there was too much to clarify and I had no choice but use novel references to explain certain parts, so I decided to just write a normal summary. Many thanks before-hand to my friend Yuuki, who gave me all this info.

Apologies for taking relatively long with this thing. Not even I expected that I would end up writing this much. Buckle up for the ride, ‘cause it won’t be fun.

Nope, not kidding. It really won’t.

First thing I need to make clear is: this movie is one and a half hour long and divided into three parts and two different timelines: the times when Violet existed and the times after she dies. Already in the beginning of the movie, Violet is dead.

Yes, you read this right. She’s dead.

Now, I don’t mean that she’s dead in the literal sense. This is 60 years in the future. She might be alive or not, but it’s never said. However, the timeline of 60 years later is considered an era without Violet, apparently because she has retired and her “legend” is over, so to say. It’s also a time where Auto-Memories Dolls don’t exist. That’s one good punch in the face. Let’s keep counting.

The movie is sort of like a tale being read by someone else, which at some point goes into Violet’s first-person POV. The whole thing is kind of a look back on Violet’s life tragectory and how it took a new turn when she decided to continue looking for Gil despite all the mess of the TV series.

The era where Violet exists is an era where telephones are being introduced to the people, so Auto-Memories Dolls are starting to become unnecessary. I would argue that the creation of the telephone isn’t enough for an entire occupation to start disappearing so quickly, since new inventions are normally extremely expensive and not everyone has access to them (or even knows about their existence) so immediately after their conception. Realistically speaking, ghostwriters would still be important as long as there were still so many people unable to buy phones. Not to mention that this is a steampunk world where compulsory education doesn’t seem to be a thing yet, so even in the off chance that everybody can buy a phone, there would still be a lot of people who can’t read or write on their own. But all of this clearly went over the animators’ heads, so not only ghostwriters but also the mail business in general are nearing their doom in the movie.

The one looking back on Violet’s life was Ann, who was telling it all to her granddaughter, Daisy (who, by the way, is voiced by Morohoshi Sumire, the same girl who voiced the seven-year-old Ann). Ann had kept all the letters that Violet ghostwrote for her mother, as well as the newspapers about the CH Postal Company. Looks like the article was printed after Violet left CH, since she isn’t in the picture with everyone else.

In this era, CH’s main office has been turned into a museum. Nerine is shown working in it. Of course, she’s a grandma by then. Speaking of the CH personnel, Erica also quit being an Auto-Memories Doll and became a playwright like Oscar. She appears in the newspaper, though, so she probably a while left after Violet did. Taylor also appears there.

Back to Daisy, she was writing a letter to her parents, in order to learn how to properly convey feelings with written word. The message of this scene seems to be that, no matter the tools, what’s important is that we convey our feelings to the people we love.

As we see in the trailer, Gil’s mom has passed and Violet runs into Dietfried when visiting her grave on the anniversary of her death. To anyone who is wondering: yeah, Gil never went to see his mother and she died thinking that he was dead.

Nobody knew that Gil was alive. Not his mother, not Dietfried, not the Evergardens and not even Hodgins. No one.

Here’s what happened to Gil in the anime: he survived the incident at Intense, of course, but got separated from Violet in that explosion. His tag miraculously stayed on the same spot, though, as we saw in the TV series. Now, since this isn’t explained in the anime at all, I have to make it clear: the tag is that necklace the soldiers wear. It contains their names and ranks, so that their bodies can be identified even when they’re irrecognizable. Without the tag, the people who rescued Gil had no idea who he was, so he was sent to a different place to get treated. He ended up at a monastery hospital instead of the one in Enchaîné. I would debate that his uniform alone is enough to identify him as someone from the Leidenschaftlich Army, or maybe they could’ve just asked him which troop he belonged to after he woke up and relocated him to where his fellow men were, but who even cares about all these plot holes anymore? Definitely not me.

Anyway. After Gil was discharged, he ran the fuck away. Like, literally.

If anyone out there was hoping that Gil would finally have his moment to shine as the self-sacrificing, thoughtful and ridiculously kindhearted character that he is in the novel, I have bad news for you. What we had here was even worse than it being Gil’s excuse movie. It’s like the whole thing was made to drag his character so deep through the mud that he’ll never be able to get up again. There’s pretty much nothing in this one and a half hour that actually justifies what he did to Violet. I’ll elaborate on this as we go on.

Anime!Gil became a nomad and went traveling. He offed his ass to the island where that lighthouse displayed in the most recent official art is located (that’s why Gil and Violet were at the beach on the movie poster). He doesn’t have a prosthetic in the anime because, apparently, he was more worried about disappearing as fast as possible to somewhere he would never be found, and never attempted to contact anybody. So nobody knew that he was alive, hence the grave, which, as we feared, was not a fake one. His family really did think he had died.

This is a point that I have already addressed before, but that also means Gil really did abandon Violet to luck. If anything dangerous ever happened to her (as it did, and it was always very obviously likely to happen, since she was the southern army’s most outstanding soldier and quite literally fled from the military), he wouldn’t even know. If word ever got to him, it would probably be too late. And even if it weren’t, he wouldn’t be able to do anything to help her. More than allowing her to live freely, it felt like he was running away from his responsibilities regarding Violet.

Punch on the face count is currently at six.

By sheer coincidence, Violet learns that Gil is living in that island. She goes to see him and Hodgins goes with her after trying to stop her at first. When Gil finds out that they came to see him, he outright refuses to meet them. It pretty much takes the near entirety of the goddamn movie for them to see each other face-to-face. I say face-to-face because all of the following shit happens:

Hodgins goes to talk to Gil. It lasts about 20 minutes.

Gil talks to Violet from behind a door. This one is about 10 minutes.

Dietfried also comes to the island to talk to him. Also about 10 minutes.

At long fucking last, Gil goes to see Violet. But that, too, is only for about 10 minutes.

Hodgins gives him a speech very similar to what happens in chapter 8. Now get ready to fall back from your seats: Dietfried basically goes there to tell Gil that he won’t run away from taking over the family anymore, so Gil can live freely. Yes, Dietfried is officially a better Gilbert than Gilbert himself. I crave death.

So, after much ado, they come to a conclusion: Gil will stay in the island. In order to completely free himself of the shackles of his bloodline, he stays behind, living the way he wants to. ‘Cause all anime!Gil wants is to rot away alone by the sea, apparently. Now prepare yourselves, for it gets worse. Ready?

Violet stays with him in the motherfucking island.

That’s right, ladies and gents. Another fear became true. She quits her job at the CH Postal Company and goes to live with him. Well, at least, not as a housewife. She starts working with mail services in the island, and Gil helps her with it. Her life goes on like this and she dies in the island as well.

This is where the timeline after Violet passes away comes into light, parallel to the era when Violet was alive. Daisy talks about what happened after Violet left CH, as if it were a tale from the distant past.

That’s it.

The movie paints this as a happy ending. I can hardly see it as one. I know it almost looks like everything was solved, but it just got swept under the rug.

The main point that makes me sad in this ending is that Violet’s character development did a 360 degree flip. In the end, she threw everything to the air and went to live in someone who she always put before everyone else, even herself, but who didn’t do the same for her (in the anime). She’s gone to a crammed little island, where she led an uneventful life away from everyone and everything that’s ever had a positive impact on her. All she has is Gil.

Of course, he’s all she needs, but he isn’t all she should have, and that was the entire point of pushing her to go live on her own. Which is exactly what she earns in the novel: two loving parents, a father figure, a brother figure, a best friend and several other friends and acquaintances whom she formed a bond with. She has all she needs, so she doesn’t have to cling to Gil for any reason. There’s no emotional dependance on him anymore. She doesn’t need him to be whole. She just wants him because he happens to be the best person she’s ever met.

Anime!Violet is most definitely not whole. She almost got there, but then she backtracked completely. And anime!Gil... in my friend’s words, is a weakling. There’s nothing in him actually worth all this undying blind love. Sure, he’s full of regret and shit, but it’s too easy to only act upon it now, by vanishing into thin air like a coward.

The deal with novel!Gil is that he looks around at everything he has, everything that had been burdening him and killing him on the inside all his life, and decides to make use of it for Violet’s sake. He continues being family head and working in the army, amassing money and connections in order to have every means possible to protect Violet should anything happen to her. And as it turns out, he does end up having to use those means, more than once, but he will keep this up for as long as he needs to, because he lives for her now. That’s what makes him worth all the blood, sweat, tears, mental sanity and even body parts that she gave away for his sake: he pays it back. Every cent.

Punch in the face count ends at twelve. Thirteen if I include the fact that the movie ends with a last shot of Violet after she and Gilbert do a pinky swear. Looks like they were really trying to buy everyone with tears.

Oh, well.

I hope this has been a good enough summary. Sorry if I rained on anyone’s parade. I’m pretty sure we won’t get a remake ever, so I really wish we all can get over this soon.

#violet evergarden #fyeahvioletevergarden #kyoani #kyoto animation #violet evergarden movie #summary #gilbert bougainvillea #claudia hodgins #dietfried bougainvillea

352 notes · View notes

idolish7rabbitchats · 3 years

Text

Isumi Haruka: Wonderful Octave Rabbit TV Part 1

Haruka: “RADIO STATION “Twelve Hits!””?

Torao: Yeah… That was the radio show IDOLiSH7 and the rest appeared on last year right?

Minami: Throughout the year, TRIGGER and Re:vale have appeared on it too.

Toma: Right! We’re gonna be on that “Twelve Hits!” this year!

Torao: Heeh.

Toma: What, your reaction is weak!

Torao: It’s not unusual to get a radio job right? Why are you so excited.

Toma: Oi oi…. It’s “Twelve Hits!” though?! It’s a radio show that any Japanese person knows, it’s a famous show!

Toma: It has existed since we were children, you heard it at least once right?

Haruka: No. I only watch RabbiTube.

Torao: Hahah, you are such a modern kid. Well, I haven’t either though.

Toma: No way?!

Minami: I have. It’s a radio show with one monthly broadcast in which the personality changes every time right.

Minami: I appeared on it once when I was young.

Toma: Seriously, Mina…! That’s amazing…!

Toma: I sent messages countless times but it was never chosen. I see, so Mina was on it huh….!

Minami: My my. If you open your eyes so wide, your eyeballs are gonna fall out.

Minami: I don’t feel bad that you are staring at me passionately to the point that you’ll sacrifice your eyeballs.

Haruka: Hiih…. Don’t say scary things...!

Torao: I see. I understand that it’s an amazing radio show for which you could sacrifice your eyeballs.

Toma: ...Cough. So anyways, we should accomplish this amazing job too!

Toma: Those guys’ radios from last year were super interesting!

Torao: You listened to them?

Minami: So you listened to it huh.

Haruka: You listened to it?

Toma: Wa-Was it bad to listen to them….? Why are you looking at me like that!

Torao: No reason.

Haruka: No reason?

Minami: No reason, it’s nothing.

Toma: You guys get along only at this kind of time...

Minami: I was impressed by your positive attitude of collecting other people’s information other than your friend Nanase-san.

Torao: Hm. It can’t be helped huh. Touma wants to be friends with them huh. It’s that we’re not enough huh.

Haruka: Torao, don’t get sulky like a brat. He won’t understand unless you tell him directly that you want him to entertain you.

Torao: I’m not being sulky. Even if Touma keeps talking about things other than us.

Toma: …...It just seemed fun to me that they were giving each other requests… I was longing for that kind of thing...

Toma: I was listening while thinking that it would be fun to do that with you guys!

Torao: Heeeh…?

Haruka: Hmmmm…?

Minami: Inumaru-san, did you want to give us requests?

Toma: Yeah! There were some ridiculous ones too, but somehow it feels like they were members!

Haruka: Ahh….. Oh right, Kujou Tenn was excited when he pulled his little brother’s request huh.

Toma: Yeah yeah! So you listened too!

Haruka: Eh? Ah…!

Haruka: I-I didn’t listen to it! It was just coincidentally playing in the car is all.

Toma: If Haru knows the radio, that’s easier! This time, it seems we’ll be getting requests from the listeners too, not just the members.

Toma: Please think of it properly!

Minami: Understood. You have to answer no matter what it is huh.

Torao: Even though people wanted me to, I never asked someone; it’s new.

Haruka: Let’s rampage like us on the radio too!

Toma: Right, we’ve all gathered huh. Let’s give our requests for Haru!

Minami: Yes. I thought of a request that suits Isumi-san.

Torao: That’s a nice smile, Minami. Are you thinking of a good idea?

Minami: That’s right. I’m very excited about it myself.

Toma: S-Somehow that smile is suspicious… It’s a request he can do on-air right?

Minami: Yes, of course. The variety corner will surely be hyped up.

Haruka: Variety huh… Haaahh...

Toma: Hahah. What is it, Haru. You look depressed. You don’t want to do it?

Torao: I get it. Maybe he feels lonely right? At the radio recording, we wouldn’t be there huh.

Torao: You have a surprisingly cute side huh.

Toma: Is that true..?! Although you dance as the center onstage with us, you’re still a highschooler huh...

Toma: Sorry I couldn’t notice that! We’re members so say anything. We’ll support you!

Haruka: ….Hah?! I-I’m not feeling lonely at all! Don’t misunderstand it!

Minami: Then, what’s the reason you’re thinking deeply?

Haruka: ……”Twelve Hits” is a talk variety radio show right? I was wondering what would be the right way to talk.

Minami: The right way?

Haruka: Yeah, like a role model for a variety show. Kujou Tenn had been saying that sort of thing before. But, I still don’t really understand.

Haruka: Television and radio might be different though. But, I’m the last one to show up on “Twelve Hits!” as ZOOL.

Haruka: If I'm gonna show up, I want to do it perfectly!

Toma: Haru….! You were really thinking about variety jobs huh..!

Toma: That’s amazing huh!

Haruka: Wh-...! Don’t rub my head..!

Torao: You don’t need to think about the right way. You’re the radio personality. Whatever you want to talk about is right isn’t it?

Minami: It’s as Midou-san says. The listeners want to hear Isumi-san’s topics.

Haruka: Really…?

Toma: That’s right, Haru! You don’t need to be mindful, if you talk like with your friends it’ll be fine.

Toma: Like with Izumi or Yotsuba! And… Was there someone else?

Haruka: I-I have other friends! I just exchanged Rabbit Chat IDs with a classmate the other day!

Minami: Mm, that’s great.

Haruka: It was just to get their contact info for a group project though...

Toma: Oh, our conversation went off! Let’s give our requests!

Toma: It might be nice if they’re things that can also support Haru. Like a topic that helps him practice variety!

Torao: Heeh, like what?

Toma: Let’s see….

Toma: Ah! Like an impromptu comedy skit!

Haruka: That’s too much! I haven’t done comedy before though!

Toma: So then isn’t it fine? It’s worth hitting the taller wall! Be a man, go for broke!

Minami: What if he broke and shattered and it traumatized him forever.

Torao: We would gather his ashes. Maybe Touma huh.

Haruka: That’s not funny though….

Toma: What, are you scared?

Haruka: I-I’m not really scared or anything! ...Impromptu comedy is easy!

Toma: Yeah, if it’s Haru, you can do it! I’ll tell you the theme on the day you’ll do the radio.

Torao: Haha, you have a lot of courage. Then, I’ll request you talk about something too.

Torao: How about doing a presentation about our charm as ZOOL for the listeners?

Haruka: Presentation… Is it like selling products? Like we see on the TV at midnight...

Toma: They sell really sharp knives and such. Something that can easily cut through a pumpkin or something!

Haruka: Seriously?! Is there a knife that can cut like that?!

Toma: A pineapple too.

Haruka: An amazing knife…!!

Minami: My my. So the theme for the comedy skit will be teleshopping?

Torao: Well, ZOOL is a product in a sense. Haruka, try to sell ZOOL to all the listeners with your talk.

Torao: Fascinate the audience across the radio, make them think that they want us so much they could pay anything.

Torao: How about it? It’s most suitable for practicing your talking right?

Haruka: What a pain… It would be easy if I showed them our performance. Can’t I sing on the radio?

Torao: If you want to practice like you’re standing onstage, I wouldn’t mind that either.

Haruka: ...Got it. I’ll try.

Torao: Hahah, you are unusually sensible.

Haruka: Saying unusually was unnecessary. Even though it’s painful, I can’t refuse the request right?

Haruka: And, I understand that Touma and Torao are saying it for my sake so...

Minami: Fufuh. Then, shall I give the well-behaved Isumi-san a carrot?

Haruka: Carrot?

Minami: The carrot from a carrot and a stick. Because you got sticks from the other two.

Minami: Please request something from the three of us. Your birthday is close, so we would do any service like adults.

Haruka: Eh?! Is it fine for me to request something? ...Anything?!

Minami: Yes. Anything. We have the son of a noble family too.

Torao: That’s the first time I’ve heard that. Well, I don’t mind tho.

Toma:.... Mina’s request is a normal one for the radio huh. It was a waste to worry about it...

Minami: Fufuh. I said a request that would suit Isumi-san didn’t I?

Haruka: ...It feels weird. The impromptu comedy seems hard but, all of them are for me...

Minami: Today it was just for that feeling though.

Torao: Just accept it gratefully.

Toma: You guys aren’t honest huh…! Everyone just treasures Haru that much huh!

Haruka: Hmmm? … Eheheh!

Haruka: It might not feel so bad huh! But it’s annoying to just be spoiled.

Haruka: So I’ll do the radio perfectly and surprise you guys!

#isumi haruka #haruka isumi #idol #idol game #Idolish7 #idolish seven #zool #12 hits #Wonderful Octave #translation #japanese #english #game app #Rhythm game #commission #they're cute

31 notes · View notes

theatreslave · 3 years

Text

Recovery

Chapter One

Drea Mikami silenced her cellphone for the third time in ten minutes. It was ringing incessantly, receiving calls from a number she didn’t recognize. She was supposed to be concentrating on paperwork but the sinking feeling that had started in her stomach two weeks ago when the number called her for the first time, was growing.

The phone rang again and she silenced just as her partner Michaela Stone-Landon reached her desk.

“You’re popular.” Michaela said with a raised eyebrow.

“It’s nothing just asking about my vehicle warranty or whatever. I swear those telemarketers are trying to annoy me to death,” Drea replied with her usual sass, trying not to show her nerves to her partner. Her amazing partner who was soon to be leaving her for a while. “Did you finish up everything? Are you excited?”

“Yeah I tied up loose ends and I have the rest of my paperwork done. Any open cases have been transferred to different detectives, barring the ones you wanted of course,” She said fondly. Silencing her friend’s phone for her the next time it rang. “In a couple hours I will be on a flight to my honeymoon, stress free!”

“I’m really happy for you Mick. I hate you for leaving me here by myself but how could I stop such a happy couple from enjoying their private time! Just make sure to have a few margaritas for me. Or better yet a few mai tais.” Drea laughed.

“You gonna be ok? I know Bowers assigned you to work with Jared while I’m gone.” Michaela asked, feeling a bit awkward.

Drea scoffed, “It’s just Jared. Afraid I’ll steal him away?”

“You can have him. Just don’t let him sulk too much ok. And take it easy on him. Your unending enthusiasm might actually make him smile and he might get a cramp in his face.” She joked.

“Oh trust me Mrs.Landon, I will make sure your ex-boy toy has nothing else to worry about except how to shut me up.” Drea stood up next to her partner and gave her a hug. “He’ll be ok Mic. He’s a big boy. I’m sure under all that brooding he is happy for you. Jared is just a passionate guy and you were all he was passionate about for a while.”

Drea released Mick from her hug. Mick nodded in agreement. “I know. He was all I knew for a long time too but Zeke, he’s everything and more. I can’t explain it. We are more than just soul mates. It’s deeper than that.”

“I know it is. I mean he survived against all odds because of you. So don’t worry, a dose of MIkami and me gushing over all the nauseatingly cute pictures you send me from your trip, will turn Jared off of you forever.” Drea was more than confident that she would have some fun while Mick was away. “And speak of the Devil.”

Jared Vasquez, newly appointed lieutenant, strode into the precinct confidently. He shrugged off his jacket and paused before scanning the bullpen and spotting the two women next to Mikami’s desk.

“It’s our big strong lieutenant back from a successful mission,” Drea teased. “I was just saying ‘bon voyage’ to the newly wed before she leaves tonight.”

Jared chuckled a bit then turned to Michaela, “Have a safe trip, and come back on time. Or if you’re going to disappear, take me with you this time.”

Michaela smacked the man’s arm, then gave him a hug as well. “I’ll be back, I promise. Be nice to Drea ok. I don’t wanna come back here and find out that you made her cry.”

“Like he could make me cry!”

“I’m not that mean!”

Drea’s phone rang and she absentmindedly silenced it again. Jared noticed but ignored it, figuring that she didn’t want to interrupt the conversation.

“So Vasquez, was it a successful mission?” Drea diverted.

“Yup, finally caught those Irish mobsters after, what, 6 months of tailing them. I am ready for something simple after all that.” Jared said as he loosened his tie and unbuttoned his top button.

“Congratulations! That’s great I know how that case has been bothering you. Using their prep-school sons as drug mules was a new low.” Michaela said with a sad look as she started packing up her bag at her desk just across from Drea’s.

Drea’s phone rang again and this time she flinched. Michaela reached over and silenced it again. Before Jared could ask what was up with that Michaela was ready to head off.

“I will see you guys in a month. I’ll send you guys some pictures. Call me if you need anything. But only if it’s urgent.” Michaela said with a wink and then waved as she walked out of the precinct.

“Aww they grow up so fast.” Drea said, wiping away a fake tear.

Jared stared at her for a second before rolling his eyes, “Make sure your weirdness doesn’t rub off on me.”

“I’m not weird! I’m just confident in my uniqueness.” Drea stuck her tongue out at him, “At least I know how to have fun.”

Her cellphone rang again. Jared finally lost his battle against his own curiosity and swiped Drea's phone and answered it. “Hello, you’re calling this phone an awful lot and it’s really starting to get annoying.”

Drea’s eyes were wide as saucers as she tried to take the phone from the much taller man in front of her. “Jared, what the hell! Give that back.”

“Who are you? Why are you answering this call?” A male voice answered. The tone he used alarmed Jared.

“Hey man, just stop calling this number ok. She doesn’t want to talk to you. And you’re making it so I can’t even enjoy the silence of a nearly empty precinct.” Jared scoffed.

“Are you that bitch’s new lap dog? She’ll curse you like she did to me. She’ll ruin you. Drea I know you’re there! You fucking bitch!” The man would have been foaming at the mouth if he were in front of Jared.

Drea finally pulled the phone from Jared’s grasp and disconnected the call. Jared was shocked then angry. “ Drea what the hell was that? Who was that? Are you in trouble?”

“Jared, it's nothing. I promise. Just some guy that’s mad that I didn’t go on a second date with him. Don’t worry about it. I was gonna get a new phone tomorrow anyway.” Drea just shut her phone off and tried to busy herself at her desk.

Jared took a moment to stare at her then went to his desk to grab a couple things, threw his jacket back on and then found his way back to her desk. “Grab what you need, the day is over and I am taking you to get a new phone.”

“Jared you really don’t have to do this,” Drea refused.

“I don’t but I’m not going to have a sleepless night thinking about that grim reaper calling you every ten minutes, so let’s move Mikami.” Jared said jokingly, trying to lighten the mood. At first Drea hesitated then grabbed her things and followed the Cuban man out of the precinct.

Drea sat in Jared’s passenger seat, having taken the bus that morning instead of her own car. It was silent as they made their way to the closest AT&T store. She played with her fingers feeling nervous for some reason.

“Do you need help getting a restraining order?” Jared asked, keeping his eye on the busy evening streets of New York.

Drea considered being honest but decided against it. Her and Jared weren’t very close and she didn’t need to involve him. “Yeah but it’s not like he’s stalking me. I probably should have given him a social media account instead of my actual number.”

“Don’t take any of the blame here, Drea. If this guy is really just being an asshole because he can’t take rejection. That’s all on him. You’ve blocked his number?”

“Yeah but he just calls with new ones. But it’s ok, I have my knight in shining necktie taking me to get a new phone so everything should be fine.” Drea teased, hoping the topic would be dropped.

“Brat,” Jared glanced at her, “If you ever need my help with some dude, don’t hesitate to ask. I know I may not be the best guy but I won’t stand for any of you girls getting treated like shit.”

“Thank you, Jared. Really it means a lot. But I don’t think this will be a big deal so don’t worry too much. That wrinkle between your brows will just get deeper.”

“I do not have a wrinkle!” Jared shot back as he parked the car. “Come on, let's go.”

“You’re coming with me?” Drea asked, surprised.

“And what, leave you here to take a night bus or taxi by yourself? Not a chance, especially after that phone call. We are getting you a new phone then you are buying me dinner for driving you around.” Jared said as they both exited the car and made their way across the street.

“How about I just cook you something? I was going to make some ramen when I got home anyway.” Drea said, smiling at Jared, honestly relieved to not be alone.

“That sounds like a deal. Just don’t poison me ok.” Jared joked as he pulled the store door open for her.

“You’ll see. Unlike Michaela I am an amazing cook!” Drea smacked Jared’s shoulder lightly as she walked past him.

The process of getting a new phone was a bit of a hassle as it always is. The minute Drea turned her old phone on, to transfer data, it started pinging with ‘missed call’ notifications followed by more calls from mystery numbers.

Jared looked a bit concerned but as soon as the service was cut off the phone stopped chiming. Drea opted for a Samsung, switching her allegiances, as the sales rep called it. It made transferring her phone numbers and data a little incomplete but Jared made sure to grab her phone and edit his contact information for her.

“Hey I literally just got that!” Drea said after saying ‘goodbye’ to the young man who helped her with her phone.

“I’m just making sure you have me saved properly.” Jared said with a laugh before snapping a picture of himself. “There ya go.”

Jared handed her the new phone as they both made it back to his car. Once they were both seated and Jared had her address in the GPS, Drea finally had a chance to look at his contact info. He had taken a quick selfie with a smile on his face from that dumb angle that guys always take it from. And had saved himself as Jared “Knight in Shining Necktie” Vasquez.

“You’re honestly a giant dork under all that machismo, aren’t you?” Drea smiled as she looked over at him.

“Only around my friends. So keep it a secret. Now are you really going to cook for me or am I just dropping you off? I’m starving after that kid couldn’t stop talking about Samsung being better than Apple blah blah blah. “ Jared said as he made his way down her street.

“Hey, we made a deal. Plus you were right, I definitely prefer this over taking the bus or subway. You can just have the valet take your car. Jonathan will take care of it.” Drea said as they pulled up to an upper class apartment building. Jared let out a low whistle.

“Your apartment complex has a valet? I knew you came from money Drea, but come on now.” Jared said, looking in awe as he stopped the car and spotted the valet driver.

“Jonathan, you’ll take care of Jared’s car won’t you.” Drea asked happily as she made her way into the building.

“Of course, Ms. Mikami. Will the Sir be spending the night?”

“Jonathan! You’re scandalous. Jared is just having dinner with me as a favor so don’t you go reporting to my mother about anything.” Drea teased the older gentleman.

“Of course Miss. Have a wonderful dinner.”

Jared watched the exchange and couldn’t help but chuckle at Drea’s cheerful manner. He followed Drea through the lobby to the elevators which were just as extravagant as the front of the building. “I’m guessing your mother likes to keep an eye on you.”

“She’s always been a tiger mom. She never did forgive me for going into law enforcement and now she wants me to apologize by getting married to one of her friends’ sons.” Drea scoffed. They made it to her apartment and she swiftly let them in.

Jared was pleased to see that her apartment was rather simple but lived in. She had a cat, or he figured she did from the litter box in the corner of the living room that opened up from the front door.

“You can hang your jacket up right there. And take off your shoes please!” Drea called as she rushed into what he assumed was the kitchen to work on their dinner. “Have a look around while I cook. And if you see Mimi, she’s friendly, I promise!.”

“You named your cat ‘Mimi’?” Jared asked as he made his way further into the apartment. He noticed a VR headset promptly displayed next to the TV, a bookcase filled to the brim, and that most of her furniture was a dark cherry color. The depth of which was offset by her cream colored walls and the shine of her lights off the various mirrors that helped make her apartment feel larger than it was.

“Yeah, why? You don’t like it?” Drea called back. The sounds of running water and then the telltale chop of a knife on a cutting board filled the apartment.

“Mimi Mikam? It’s cute.” Jared said with a laugh. He stood at the threshold of the kitchen.

“And she’s cute. If you haven’t seen her then she will come out when I bring her food out,” Drea said absentmindedly as she busied herself with the bowling water and what looked like noodles.

“Where’s your bathroom? I wanna wash up.” Jared asked, not wanting to try and find out himself in case he got accused of snooping. Not that he wasn’t a little interested in the inner workings of his silver spoon fed coworker.

“Just keep going down the hall past the living room. The first door on the right. The door on the left is the guest bedroom. The one at the end of the hall is my room, and across from it is a closet.” Drea answered not looking up from the meat she was slicing.

“Thanks. Not that I needed a full floor plan,” Jared replied as he turned to the hallway.

“I’m just being thorough. Like I am with this food you’re going to love by the way,” Drea shot back.

Jared just chuckled to himself as he walked down the hall, flicking a light switch as he went. The hall was longer than he expected. He found the bathroom easily and washed his hands. He pulled off his tie, finally letting himself relax after the long day. The Lieutenant looked at himself in the mirror, taking in the littering of grey hairs and the deepening crease between his brows. Jared let out a long sigh, he really wasn’t getting any younger. He shook his head and let his mind focus on the enigma that was Drea and her mystery caller. He had a feeling there was more to this than some stilted “nice guy” but he didn’t want to pry. He wasn’t as close to Drea as Michaela but hopefully a month as partners would remedy that.

Jared exited the bathroom only to hear the sound of something falling in what he now knew was Drea’s bedroom.

“Jared,” Drea called from the kitchen.

“Yeah?” Jared called back, his sense on high alert and his hand on his gun which was still at his belt.

“Can you make sure Mimi didn’t knock over the glass I keep on my bedside? She does that sometimes when she realizes I’m home,” Drea requested.

“Yea sure,” Jared let out a sigh of relief and then made his way down the hall. The door to her room was already ajar. Knowing that Drea asked him to check made it easier for him to flick the light switch and enter her bedroom. Jared chuckled to himself, “I guess this is one way to get into a woman’s bedroom.”

Drea’s bedroom was the definition of feminine sophistication. She had a four post canopy bed with light gauzy curtains that were pulled open. Her sheets were a cream color with mauve accents. The wood of her furniture matched the furniture in the rest of her apartment. Her side tables matched and had gold filigree lamps atop them. The carpets were plush and squishy under Jared’s socked feet. He noticed an empty glass laying haphazardly on the floor and moved to pick it up. The glass was placed neatly back on her bedside table.

Jared took a moment to snoop, unable to help himself. There was a small porcelain tree next to her lamp. A ring holder. He did notice she always wore a pinky ring on her left hand and a plain gold band on her right ring finger. A simple brush lay next to it along with a novel. Something horror related from the looks of the cover. Across from the foot of the bed was a dresser and next to that a vanity. In the opposite corner was a desk and a door that he assumed led to the master bathroom.

His attention turned at the soft mewl of Mimi who made herself known. She appeared and with the usual agility of a cat, hopped on to the vanity. That’s when Jared noticed that Drea’s window was open. She hadn’t been in here since they arrived and he doubted that she left it open by accident. Jared shut the window and did a quick sweep of the room. Once satisfied that no one was hiding in the room he turned back to Mimi.

“You wouldn’t be in here if there was an intruder right?” Mimi just blinked up at him. She was a short haired cat. Small and white, with striking blue eyes. She mewed at him and made a movement trying to rub up against him. Jared wasn’t a cat person but he had to admit she was cute. He stepped closer and tentatively reached out a hand. Mimi happily bumped her head against his palm asking for pets.

Jared smiled down at the cat just as Drea called, “Dinner’s ready! Quit snooping and come back out here.”

Jared slowly picked up the snow white cat and was surprised to see how easily she curled into him and purred. He held her to his chest, scratching her head as he made his way back to the kitchen where Drea had set a table for two at the small dining table. “Hey, I wasn’t snooping, I was bonding. See.”

Drea turned and smiled at the sight of the normally stoic detective holding her purring white cat while he scratched her head. “ Aww that’s so cute. Mimi likes you.”

“By the way did you leave your window open? I closed it for you. You should be more careful.” Jared said as he took a seat. Finally he relinquished his hold on Mimi who was more than happy to make her way to her food bowl which Drea had filled.

Drea hesitated then sat down as well, “Uh, yeah I must have forgotten about it when I went to work this morning. Thanks. I really should wake up earlier. Anyway, here we are, a Mikami special. Tonkatsu ramen and shredded seaweed chicken rolls with a side of rice.”

“Wow, it definitely smells better than anything Mick has ever tried to make,” Jared joked..

“Dig in. You had a long successful day and this is our first time hanging out as partners.” Drea said, “Thank you for coming with me to get a new phone too.”

“If I get fed like this every time I might have to do you more favors.” Jared happily dug in.

They chatted throughout dinner enjoying the food and eventually opening up a bottle of wine. Drea reasoned that they were both off tomorrow anyway. Jared, having loosened up, asked Drea about the VR headset he saw and she was more than happy to teach him how to use it. And that’s how they ended up in the living room, Jared exhausted after playing a shooting game and Drea exhausted from laughing so hard at his irritation.

“You know, I should get one of these. It’s like working out without a gym.” Jared said between breaths as he turned off the headset and returned it to its stand.

“I never took you for a gamer. But I must say that was definitely entertaining. You get way too competitive.” Drea said with a laugh. “You should just bunk out in my spare room. It’s late and we drank the whole bottle.”

“Are you sure? I’m not drunk or anything.” Jared realized it was nearing 2 a.m.

“You still drank. We’re cops Jared, we have to set a good example. And you won’t have to worry about me drunkenly jumping you in bed, the spare room has a lock.” Drea said cheekily as she started cleaning up the errant wine glasses and napkins.

“Let me do that then. You cooked and let me stay so I will wash the dishes. Go get ready for bed.” Jared insisted as he started picking up bowls and utensils.

“Yes dad, “ Drea joked as she let him take over, a yawn escaping her mouth.

“I prefer Daddy.” Jared quipped before he could stop himself. Drea let out a laugh and threw a pillow at him. “In your dreams Vasquez.”

He caught the pillow laughing as he cleaned up the remains of their dinner. It wasn’t until he was nearly done with the dishes that he felt the wine headache coming on. Drea met him in the hallway with some extra towels and a pair of sweats that were much too large to be her actual size.

“Here. So you can wash up and change. You’re lucky I like to wear big mens sweats when I’m home by myself. I will be off to bed now. Goodnight Jared.” Drea said nonchalantly as she handed him the pile then made her way back to her room, picking up Mimi who had been winding around her legs.

“Thanks Drea, goodnight.” Jared said. He washed up in the bathroom then went into the guest bedroom to change. It was simpler than her bedroom and slightly smaller but still had the plush carpet and elegant side tables. He took off his shirt and pants, hanging them up in the empty closet, then unfolded the sweats. They were a bit loose on him but were worn in. He could tell from the creases that Drea normally folded the legs up quite a bit. His eyes barely staying open, he hopped into the bed, thinking for a moment about how he ended up here. A ghost of a smile on his face as he drifted off to sleep.

Saying goodnight to Jared was an odd feeling but not bad. Drea definitely didn’t think her day would end with Jared Vasquez sleeping in her apartment. But as she went over the events of the day, it seemed to be an appropriate ending. Drea was about to climb into bed when she noticed something green on her vanity.

As she walked across the room and started to recognize the object, her blood ran cold. She stood less than a foot away, staring down at the handmade Valentine’s Day card wishing it would burst into flames. She looked up at the window next to the vanity, the one that had been open. For a split second panic filled her at the idea that he had made his way into her apartment. But Jared would have noticed, he wouldn’t let her get hurt. He wasn’t here but he had been.

Drea swiftly walked to the kitchen and grabbed some chopsticks and a ziplock bag, hoping her movements wouldn’t wake Jared. She was back in her room with the door shut behind her. She paused again, staring across the room at the offensive item. Until she let her anger surge up within her and drive her forward. She used the chopsticks effortlessly and put the card into the ziplock bag before shoving it in a bottom drawer of her vanity.

Breathing heavily she made her way to her bed. Hoping she would be able to get some sleep. Hoping the vents of the past two days wouldn’t send her spiraling back into her nightmares.

AND THATS IT FOR CHAPTER ONE. SOON TO BE ADDED TO AO3 and FANFIC.NET

#ellen tamaki #jr ramirez #manifest netflix #manifest nbc #manifest #jared vasquez #drea mikami #michaela stone

4 notes · View notes

highladyluck · 3 years

Text

Workplace Giving Companies Ranked By How Much I Wish To Defeat Them In Ritual Combat

Network for Good: Barely a workplace giving vehicle but generally unobjectionable, gives lots of good info unless you're somehow getting Facebook donations through them. I wish they'd calculate net payout amount for you but that's a pretty minor complaint. Payment reliably shows up midmonth, which is perfect. If I faced them in ritual combat I would deliberately shoot to miss.

YourCause: Nice interface, usually easy to match ACH payments to the company, sometimes weirdly delayed uploading of donation reports, but at least they usually put up a note about it and the reports do show up in a week or so. If I had to face them in ritual combat I would punch them gently on the shoulder in a bro-y way and then buy them a drink.

Benevity: Genuinely stellar customer service, complex but understandable formatting system, now if only they'd go back to sending us money a week before the end of the month or the first day of the next month. If they keep sending us money on the very last day of the month I will be forced to issue a formal challenge, because it takes several days to enter their stuff and I hate having it sprung on me at the very last possible second.

Bright Funds: Pretty sure their reporting template was designed by an Elder God because I can never parse what any of their column headers mean, and I resent that they made us join their weird wannabe cloud database just to access donation reports. But if you've got the report key and the right login URL it's fine I guess. I would sucker-punch them in the stomach for past wrongs.

Frontstream: Completely deranged system where every time someone misspells our name they open a new account and then we have to get it attached to our main portal. Must click into each separate account one by one to figure out who gave us money this time. We have 21 accounts spread across three pages and every time you go back to the main menu it resets you to page one. Please let me return to page two if I was on page two, or maybe order the accounts by who paid out most recently, or if I'm really wishing for something impossible, CONSOLIDATE THE STUPID FUCKING ACCOUNTS PLEASE. Would absolutely whale on them until my demands were met.

Cybergrants: OH MY GOD PLEASE LET ME FIGHT THEM. Cybergrants headquarters will make a change to our account that propagates to all the independent separate Cybergrants versions hosted at each company, but it'll be wrong, and so we then have to reach out to every single company that gives to us saying "hey this is wrong please change it and also can we speak to the person in charge of making decisions like this because it's wrong everywhere" and they're like 'yeah that person doesn't work here' and we scream into the void. Also no one there does their due diligence on addresses or checking EINs or anything, we have to do their job for them whenever they send us money that absolutely isn't ours, which is often. I hate them. Don't use them. If I faced them in ritual combat I would kill them, yea, unto the 7th generation.

Companies who don't use third party software for their workplace giving and just give one lump sum at the end of the year to every nonprofit they owe matching gifts to via that nonprofit's website: omg please stop. Matching gifts are supposed to be matched to the fund people gave to, and if you give one random online donation that money is not able to be directed to the funds it is actually matching, and also not able to be broken up and soft-credited to different people, and we probably have no idea whose donations you're matching either! All third-party workplace giving solutions suck in different ways but PLEASE USE ONE, or make individual online donations in honor of each donor? Like, then we have a hope of figuring it out and also reclassifying those donations properly as matching gifts? I would refuse to fight them in ritual combat but would absolutely meet them in a Denny's parking lot at 3 am and slap them until they saw reason and signed up with YourCause.

#nonprofit life #nonprofits #nonprofit #workplace giving #humor #ritual combat #sorry I know this is not what you signed up for by following me but I had to get this out

2 notes · View notes

ilikelookingatthings · 3 years

Text

Comment that I’m proud from youtube on Akatsuki no Yona Chapter 201 part 1

I think the thing thats gets in the way of your idea that Hak is basically untouchable or should be because if he gets hurt the people who love him will go batshit is that yona loves her kingdom as well. I definitely believe Hak is one of the top priorities(after all the whole reason the dragons were gathered by yona was to make sure hak doesn't die). Its definitely true that if they want to they could mess EVERYONE up and take over the castle if Hak is killed....but Kouka ISN'T in a completely stable position right now even before the murder pin the blame on yona game the new country is playing. If they want to stay safe from invaders they need to make sure kouka isn't temping to be attacked by other countries. its been shown multiple times that the dragons aren't invincible. they can't always be vigilant and yona and the dragons and hak have been hurt and kidnapped on multiple occasions.

Yona's choice to take the deal with kyek-sook to enter the castle so yoon could learn more medicine nd she and the dragons could be protected makes sense. If yona refused she definitely knew kyk-sook would end more people to kill them. she witnessed a crazed priest convince other countries to aim for her and the dragons. everytime they had thought they were safe something went wrong. yona got kidnapped and sent to the drug workshop before. had been sword slashed. they had to sneak around tae-jun's place despite his permission and zeno was shot by a arrow. yona had been kidnapped and if the country had gotten the other two dragons in that first run using yona as a hostage there was no telling how many of their own country men thy would have ben forced to kill. and yona has seen the level of obsession or interest in the dragons grow in real time and how it can be a nice flattering hopeful thing...but can easily become twisted or obsessive. everyone was even injured on some level before they entered the castle. for long run safety it makes sense to choose to go along wth kyk-sook so at the very least if they DO choose to leave again the hak kidnapped her and killed her dad rumour would go away. the info of the dragons already coming out but by going with kyk-sooky it was a way to control how the dragons are seen as well as hak.

though you also have a point that whether yona was unsettled or not she let kyk-sook have the advantage over her since she came to the castle and if she had pushed more things could have changed earlier. even if she knew if they left they would still be in guaranteed danger so felt they could at least try to make things work t the palace. and she understood why they wouldn't let hak in the palace near soo-won. it was annoying because we could see that if yona pushed more things maybe could have changed earlier...but she was also made aware recently that the dragons andher aren't invicable and one of her mentalities is to finally start understanding soo-won properly. even if another point was so yoon could get more education and books we have seen hak and everyone be aware there are guards watching hak since he entered the area.

but of course like stated here...kyk-sook seemed to keep looking for a excuse to kill Hak which was ALWAYS a dumb move because it would trigger yona and the dragons...but also the windtribe to turn against soo-won. like it makes sense to have a guard in case hak tried to attack the king but we know supposedly tha kyk-sook was trying to provoke hak with the disrespect of putting her in the queens seat which others would assume was a engagement type of thing and had people set up to kill him. and we know kyk-sook didn't prepare enough to deal with the dragons. and separating yona from the dragons and refusing to let them meet was ALWAYS going to be suspicious as fuck and caused them to want to find answers.

but also confusing because....if killing Hak was always a dumb move which had been mentioned by SOO-WON even back when they saved lily. and one of the majour reasons that kyk-sook decided on this plan to bring yona and the dragons into the fold was because he was so impressed with Hak on the battlefield yet we haven't seen Kyk-sook try to bring Hak involved with the army at all uptil now despite that having been part of his motivation. how much of a dumb move? if hak is killed it would certainly trigger retaliation from the dagons and the windtribe.....however its also known kouka is still recovering from Il's rule and Yona is not ready tolead a army properly or knows enough about the politics so it would lead to kouka's citizens being endangered as well which ky-sook knows yona wouldn't want as yona and the dragons have been protecting the citizens this whole time. kyk-sook has already seen yona willing to put aside the murder of her dad for the greater good of the kingdom. so I wonder if its a game of chicken.

kyk-sook is interesting because we know he IS smart and can be cold and calculative when it comes to things from the beginning.....but since the flashback I've been starting to realize one of his flaws is he can be overly emotional whenit comes to soo-won as well. likehow he had wanted to kill yona on the spot when he came across her during the potential war arc when she was trying to get soo-won to agree to a meeting with the princesses and realized yona had a scary amount of connections. I think he was really rattled finding out that dragons with SUPERPOWERS exist. and he is such a soo-won stan that Hak properly using that soo-won strategy during the war rattled him a bit. we know he was smart enough to know that letting yona and friends continue to roam free could cause issues because yona and dragons could be kidnapped by other countries again....but also the longer yona is wandering around the more followers and people who admire her pop up which could cause more issues when people start questioning WHY the princess is wandering around instead of at the palace and realize its because soo-won killed king il. so bringing her in could put those rumours to rest. smart move.

but reckless move was him trying to test the dragons powers and assume the dragons would easily fall in line and wanting to provoke hak so they could take out hak/get rid of the risk even though he had realized the value hak has.

we also know they didn't kill hak on the spot in public and soo-won's bodyguard had apparently been watching and let hak get near soo-won. and kyk-sook has been so on edge since finding out about the disease which he aparently hadn't known about at all that he almost considered Yona for a back up position even though WE know she was bluffing with a three day cram session.

from his reaction its possible he really was planning on Hak being killed for finding out as he looked really surprised to see Yona there with the medic(which by the way was my favorite detail because we know the medic, and kyk-sook were around soo-won since they were young. kyk-sook is firmly team soo-won but there are extra layers because our medic hates having been a unwitting spy which could have led to king il's death. and I think it was implied that yon-hi sent the secret message to king il through the medic. and why kyk-sook was still surprised by the 'betrayal' of the medic telling Yona. Hak's word about how he wasn;t killed yet.....it shows that they WEREN'T ordered by soo-won to kill Hak as soon as he got close to the king. or they LET Hak get close to the king to test how bad Soo-won really was. its possibly they let Hak through to try to trap him into this situation to send him to the frontlines.....but then again hak had already agreed to be a soldier on his own and kyk-sook DOESN'T understand Hak all that well(which is kindof ironic because Hak follows and respects Yona like kyk-sook respects Soo-won...or yu-hon really.

Its possible they were trying to figure out how much Hak really figured out or to kill him in private. make him....disappear~ without anyone knowing what they did to him. After all kyk-sook did seem shocked by how much Hak had figured out. and he was clearly projecting on Hak a lot because WE know Hak is clearly not happy about soo-won being sick....but kyk-sook's understanding of soo-won and hak's relationship is still elementary so kyk-sook assumed hak would be happy about it and didn't seem to plan for Yona to appear.

but then again this IS the guy who helped plan a cou and Hak was one of his motivational factors for making this deal to get yona and the dragons in the palace and its been weird he seemed fine with potentially tricking or getting hak o die at other points since yona entered the palace instead of finding a logical route to get the man to be a proper soldier for the country. like its possible its ego. kykyk-sook thinking anyone who doesn't sta loyal to soo-won is trash or dumb if they aren't going to fall in line. after all even joo-doh was trying to lecture hak about loyalty and wanted lip service when honestly hak has been the only one who has never broken any type of vow at this point...even if we know why the others were loyal to soo-won over king il. we have definitely been finding out kyk-sook is more emotionally driven that we had thought and he does over look very obvious character issues in himself like when he didn't stop driving his horse forward and almost hurt a little kid which had lilly and others looking down on the advisor and seemed to think he might reflex badly on soo-won. kyk-sook did try to have them not listen to Yona' words to get a real talk between soo=won and kourien because kyk-sook didn't like Yona having any type of upper hand and was alarmed and how they had walked into yona's plans so easily.

I can't help but wonder if Hak KNEW they wouldn'tb able to instantly kill him and that's why he risked going to check on yona and soo-won to get information despite knowing if soo-won WAS sick and hak founded out about it...it could cause problems.

#akatsuki no yona #yona #hak #soo-won #kouka #dragons #king il #jou-doh #akatsuki no yona chapter 201

2 notes · View notes

devontroxell · 4 years

Text

5 Ways to Stand Out in a Sea of Copywriters

The copywriting universe is expanding at breakneck speed.

Facebook groups are filling up daily with aspiring teenage wordsmiths (I’d LOVE to have known about copywriting at their age)…

While copywriters based in India, Nigeria and other countries are upping their game to earn a chunkier wage packet from the interwebs…

And people who’ve lost their jobs in the viral tornado are now retooling to reboot their careers as home based copy scribes.

The good news is there are millions of businesses in need of our services.

The bad news is there’s now a vast ocean of copywriters all vying for their custom.

So how can you stand out?

The key to success is developing a ‘magnetic brand’.

A brand that draws clients to you… so you can spend more time making moolah and less time penning cold emails.

How can you build a ‘magnetic brand’?

Here are five idea:

1. Niche down early

Specialists get to charge more than generalists. That’s a simple fact.

So plan how you can be the go-to expert for a specific niche.

Choose a topic you’re passionate about and there’s a hungry market for (hint – if there’s a magazine about it, there’s a market).

Then start building your knowledge, skillset and brand as the expert in that niche.

2. Specialize in a TYPE of copy

You can take niching down a step further by specializing in a type of copy.

You could be the expert in onboarding email sequences for pet CBD…

The master at writing sales pages for survival knives….

Or become the person with the biggest swipe file of supplement check out pages (checkout pages are one of the best ways to boost response yet are criminally ignored).

3. Post daily

The world is filled with dirt poor geniuses who don’t know (or refuse to) market themselves.

Don’t be like them.

Log an hour of self promotion into your daily schedule.

This could include answering questions in Facebook groups… giving people feedback on their sales page… and posting daily with insights and tips.

Don’t know what to write?

Breakdown a marketing process into a series of steps, and then write bite size posts on each step.

Want to go a step further than 99% of your introverted brethren (including yours truly)?

Record your posts as videos on your phone.

You can start up a YouTube channel, as well as grow your following on LinkedIn and Facebook.

4. Offer a bold guarantee

Sadly, there are too many copywriters who take self promotion to the extreme.

They offer clients the moon and the stars before they’ve even witten a single profitable promo.

The result is there are a ton of jaded clients out there, who’ve been burned so many times they’re reluctant to try out up-and-comers.

One workaround is to offer a bold guarantee.

Say that you’re a copywriter ‘who stands by their work’.

In other words, you’ll provide unlimited redrafts for 1-3 months until the client hits their conversion goals.

Just make sure you only offer this to clients willing to share their stats and properly test your copy.

5. Create a new method for turning clicks into cash

Jeff Walker is known for his Launch Formula while Todd Brown has E5 Camp.

They’re essentially two renditions of the same theme. So why not create a product launch strategy of your own?

Even better, promote it with a case study using REAL DATA on how you used it to grow a list and sell a $7 info product.

Proof of concept will go a long way to drawing in clients.

So there you go.

Five ideas off the bat on how to standout in the rapidly expanding ocean of copywriters.

And five ideas I hope have got the cogs grinding on how you can develop your skills and grow the magnetic power of your brand at the same time.

If you try implementing any of them, let me know how you get on.

5 Ways to Stand Out in a Sea of Copywriters published first on https://wabusinessapi.tumblr.com/

1 note · View note

periperimommy79-blog · 5 years

Text

Don't give up

This is my first scribble - knowing me it'll be a novel sized scribble, apologies -, and it will be about my breastfeeding journey in the UK.

Nothing I write should be considered medical or professional advice, it is only my personal experience and loads - no, really, LOADS - of researching the internet (even translating Spanish, Italian, French and German articles - thanks Google). And of course my final conclusion on the matter. Which is: do not panic or stress, relax and it will fall into place. Emotions are more important than I believed before. Mind over matter? Sure. But heart and soul over mind. Always. So do not despair as it will hold you back.

My journey began in May 2013 when I've truly understood love, holding my baby girl for the first time❤. I was set on breastfeeding and never gave it a second thought. I believed it was the natural way, so formula feeding was a choice for those who did not WANT to breastfeed.

5 days after her arrival we were back in hospital as my little angel lost over 16% of her birthweight. When we talking of a 6.8 lb baby that is a lot.

She wasn't getting fed enough, probably was getting some as she managed to stay hydrated... just above the ouchy line, but not enough to sustain her weight.

So we were told to supplement after offering the breast. She needed to get stronger to be able to suck properly, as feeding on the breast takes a lot of energy, especially if the reward is near nothing.

I was devastated. It felt like I've failed my baby. I kept beating myself up for starving my child. Up till today when I look at her early pictures my heart goes out to that baby with so much pain and sadness in her tiny eyes. I don't think I'll ever be able to forgive myself for not pressing harder when my instinct told me something was wrong after 2 days. As a new mum I was not given credit by the seasoned professionals visiting us every day for 5 days when I said she sleeps too much, she doesn't eat only goes on for a few sucks then falls asleep. Her latch was checked and seemed good, so I was labelled a worrier. Until the day 5 weight check when our world collapsed.

Not for a moment did I want her to starve any longer but I also wanted her to get breast milk. So I've followed professional advice. Increased and increased then increaed the formula again and kept offering the breast before each feed. Also followed the set time for feeding, every 3 then 4 hours, and so on as she grew.

Tried expressing after feeds as well, but it was a disaster and disheartened me even further. The lack of milk when expressing made me accept that I am one of those women who just can't produce milk. It happens. It's not my fault. It's just how it is. I gave exclusive breast feeding my best shot and by offering the breast until she was 6 months old I did give her the "best of both worlds".

5 years down the line I can see where I went wrong. In November 2018 my little man arrived. He was a surprise: we were trying for nearly 5 years with no luck, then decided it isn't happening for us, sold all baby and toddler stuff. Was about to sell the nursery furniture when we found out about him 😊 everything else had to be bought again 🙈

What did I do different?

1. With my girl we had help, honest help, but untrained and unexperienced help from lovely people. If you want to breastfeed and it's not working, having professional help is important. Finding the right one is key. With our son we had picked up on the "not enough milk" on day 3. Again, started formula topups. We were upping it to 30ml each feed and he wa gaining well so we stopped the topups. Then weighed him 3 days after. He lost weight again. Back to formula. Gaining again, decrease formula. Baby lost weight again. Hospital as his weight is up and down. We know why but go in anyway. So luckily we went. And met 3 amazing and experienced feeding specialists.

Turns out if you look at an already latched baby feeding you will not be able to establish if the latch is good or not. You'll need a feed observed from start to finish to tell. He wasn't latching properly. So with help and instructions he was latching fine after 5 hours of trying. He fed with big gulps for 10 minutes on each breast then followed with lots of sucks and fewer swallows on each. We were in there for 2 days, BF, express, topup. I felt more sure of myself when we left and very greatful for "my 3 angels" and their knowledge.

2. Have support. With my girl I had the understanding and backing of our family - I was shaken of what happened and feeling an utter failure. But I was not pressing breastfeeding, scared of her losing weight again I accepted formula as the only way.

With my boy I decided I will not give up as I did with my girl. Unfortunately my partner and our family did not believe I can breastfeed and my partner was very agressivly against it - being told I'm selfish for trying to breastfeed, that I rather starve him than accept that I will never have milk and the best one: he'll call social services if I don't give up the idea of not giving him formula - not the support I needed.

His whole family gave me the cold stare for carrying on and even my own mother said just give him the bottle and spend the time gained with my daughter. Emotional pressure...hmmm, mother knows best. Good thing I'm now a mother too, so took the tiny gold out of this comment and spoke to my girly, explaining what and why is mommy doing what she's doing. I swear that little girl is more supportive than some of the adults close to me.

So I ignored all negativity, got courage from 3 of my friends and told my other half if he can't be supportive then at least keep his mouth shut and stay away from me as stress has serious negative effects on my supply. He stayed away and kept his mouth shut and I've carried on. It was hard times. To carry on and not give in. Even harder that the people I expected to back me had turned their back.

So surround yourself with people who raise your spirits, who will assure you and make you believe that you can do it. Ignore the nay sayers. It is your baby and body, as long as you're both safe you call the shots and do what feels right.

3. Research. Knowledge is power. Gather as much info, as many tips and methods as possible. Watch videos, read, go on forums and ask questions. Find groups. Shape all info so it fits the two of you.

With my daughter I just accepted what I was told by the professionals in the hospital and after we left it. I did not know of other moms who struggled but succeeded. I did not know there are ways to try to increase milk supply. I did not know I was breaking the demand and supply ring by increasing formula and not boobie time.

With my boy I was constantly reading, watching, getting in touch.

What worked for us? These:

1. Did not follow rules of timed feeding.

Yes, I've kept to the 3 hrs with him, but only that I didn't let him go longer than 3 hrs between feeds. Not even at night. Not until he was gaining weight well. If he wanted to eat 30 minutes after he came off the breast then I've put him back on.

Ever heard of supply and demand? SOOOO TRUE! When your baby is sucking for 3-5 hours non stop (cluster feeding)? Or eating for 1 hr then 40 minutes break and another hour session aaaand repeat? They just ordering their meals ahead. Telling your body they need more. Let them.

When we were topping up with over 30ml formula, I did it in smaller portions during his cluster feeding periods which were always evening meals - 60ml topup: 2x30ml or 3x20ml and put him back on the boob in between. It is time consuming, but works. Sometimes he refused the last portion cuz he was too tired/full. If it was only one meal, I let him skip that formula amount.

2. I started expressing only after his last feed before his big sleep each night. It saves time during the day and I can sleep more during the night. It is app. the same time each day, so my body is expecting it.

Now I can get 3x as much out as what I've staryed with. He drinks this still as a topup after his last meal of the day the next evening. Past few days he doesn't even drink it all and it makes me happy! They're hungrier in the evenings - getting filled up for longer time to sleep - and if he refuses his favourite meal with the easy access (he prefers breast milk over formula, but prefers the bottle to the breast as it is easier) must mean he had enough already 😀.

3. I had looked at pictures of how my breast is built up, where he needs to press to get the milk going.

I finally understood that I did have milk, even with my daughter - she kept sucking for 6 months and never took more than 90ml of formula, looking back I was such a fool not to realise that she wouldn't have gained weight as well as she did on 360ml of formula a day - they just could not get to it efficiently.

Once I worked out where his mouth needs to be on my aerola I looked for ways to put it in. It sounds funny, but my aerola is rather large and his cute mouth is so little, so he needed help to "stuff it in". Now he doesn't need it as he learnt to do it himself as well as his mouth is a bit bigger.

4. Made myself realise, understand and trust that I have enough milk for my baby and stop worrying over it.

I looked for proof and reminded myself every time I started to doubt myself again (maybe because a look from other half, or baba wanting to eat and eat - not because I did not have enough now but because he will need more soon so he is ordering) that I have milk. So when he was gaining on 420ml formula a day until he was 7 weeks old I convinced myself and reduced the amount to 360ml. Then 300ml. Always checked his gain. Now we're 180ml a day and reducing. And he is gaining.

It was hard not to increase formula as suggested by some people, but I knew he is safely gaining and worse case senario he will not gain enough, but he will not lose weight again, even if my supply decreases or can't keep up with his demand.

5. Stopped timing our feeds. I take note of the bottles still - will do until they're out of the picture -, but not of how long he is on each breasts. It is not important. I'll put him on when he asks. And because he is gaining he will ask when he is hungry because he has the energy to let me know. He will now not sleep if he's hungry no matter what I do. Dare to go shopping too long and the roof comes down!

This way feeding feels natural, not a must do thing which commands my day and full attention. I even enjoy it now, that I relax. No clocking in and out 😊 honestly? This is one of the best feelings other than seeing the numbers go up on the scale and down in the bottle.

Do not get me wrong. I have nothing against formula, we're lucky that is available. I do not judge anyone who chose to formula feed their LO. Mixed feeding has it's advantages as well. Not the way I am doing it now, but when you replace meals with a bottle to gain some time off boob duty.

But to me exclusive breastfeeding is the end game, so at mo formula is an unwanted must.

I will stop here for now, my eyelids are getting glued at each blink.

1 note · View note

gamingtech · 3 years

Text

How Musicians Used Gaming Tech To Adapt To A Gig

This consists of all writing, design, programming, artwork, music, advertising and they even publish their very own games. Slightly Mad Studios is an unbiased video game company founded in 2008. With so much new and shiny gaming tech having dropped this 12 months, it is good to see a well-recognized face crop up from time to time. Taking benefit of Logitech’s Lightspeed wireless know-how, a pro-grade connection working at a blindingly fast 1ms, this is a sleek and stylish keyboard with floating keys and gorgeous RGB.

Boneloaf was setup 'to make video games and toys informed by an adolescence spent watching bizarre Filmation and Hasbro cartoons, playing multiplayer arcade and console video games, and drawing silly characters'. Edge Case Games are the team behind Strike Suit Zero, the dogfighting recreation is the first to ride the wave of the space fight revival. Founded in 2012 by business legend and creator of the God Game style, Peter Molyneux. It is, nonetheless, necessary to verify you’re getting the absolute best internet design for your cash. Watch out for businesses who depend on templates; whatever you get from them goes to be mass-produced and severely missing in creative aptitude.

Team Strawdog has a collective flair for inventive and revolutionary authentic ideas for console and informal games, and has particular experience in producing games for digital distribution platforms. GamesChart is a free monitoring and monetization plugin for online & mobile games. The GamesChart community uses a hybrid of sport discovery & in-game advertising to assist big name publishers like EA, Disney & Ubisoft purchase new players for their on-line and cell games. Betify is a mobile application that enables its users to play challenge-based social games.

And high spec gaming headsets present crystal clear communication for conference calls. Every peripheral has a use, be it personal, inventive or skilled. What you won't anticipate is a proliferation of glowing neon colors, the whirr of high-end cooling fans, or the clatter of mechanical keyboards.

Your cellphone, your mouse, your headset, any two devices can be charged simultaneously. Good time administration and the ability to manage a number of tasks along with sturdy team-working skills and the ability to work in a quick paced on-line setting. We are in search of a Category Manager to affix our current product group who will be reasonable for the Profit and Loss of key brands or classes and managing key vendor relationships. You will be a powerful negotiator who loves a deal and thrives in working in an entrepreneurial surroundings. You will need good business acumen and the power to work in a quick previous environment selling throughout multi channels. In other instances, attendees can come together in fastidiously crafted virtual worlds, their avatars co-created with totally different personalities and branding in mind.

The area's brand new, free service for job seekers and employers, recruiters and schooling leavers, to connect, find jobs, publish vacancies and entry the wealth of assist measures which have been carried out across the region. In maybe one of many extra symbiotic fusions of music and 3D worlds, the Belfast post-rockers opted to combine their love of epic movie scores with a trippy Unreal Engine creation. While this ambitious A/V set received a trial run by way of a handful of pre-lockdown exhibits over the past twelve months of being stuck indoors, this bold new 3D project has morphed right into a world of its own. “I think that as an artist, you’re afraid that people aren’t going to like your character. In this age now where everybody’s a YouTube star – all of that comes along with it. For me, the internet makes it easier to let everyone know that I’m coping with a lot of shit on a daily basis and that I make a lot of errors.

They specialize in creating recent and engaging video games experiences. With the development of technologies and the rising demand for photorealistic graphics, 3D virtual reality and video games as a service, the means ahead for the gaming trade will solely continue to grow and innovate. Positech Games is a online game developer based by the former Lionhead Studios programmer Cliff Harris.

Eleven Hundred Agency shall be selling Two-Up Digital’s unique position in the business with content creation and media relations actions. The reality is that 20 plus years in the past, I took the decision that I needed to make a dwelling off of playing music. And, you realize, generally you got to have a song in a film, that’s the functioning actuality for a lot of people. With the identical people who type of criticize Refused for selling out, I mean, my actuality is that I even have to pay hire at the end of the month. “I wanted to keep my streams detached from music,” she continues, “ as a end result of I don’t feel comfortable singing if I’m not with Lacuna Coil.

Over the years Llamasoft has released over 30 video games on almost 20 platforms, garnering plenty of awards alongside the method in which, as properly as a loyal group of fans. A precision mouse for FPS games may additionally be used for fine detail picture editing. A mechanical keyboard designed for consolation and satisfying typing makes long coding and writing periods a breeze.

The staff came collectively after giving up their jobs developing AAA games to bring one thing new to cellular gaming. GameDigits is a company dedicated to creating enjoyable video games for cellular devices. They have the expertise to produce top quality games to the very best normal.

With over a decade of expertise in the field, they work with a range of partners including marketing and advertising agencies, independent recreation builders, and solo artists. Hanako Games is an unbiased online game improvement company that develops PC video games largely involving feminine protagonists, centered on fantasy-and anime-inspired style. The website provides free demos for the entire video games together with downloadable wallpapers. Hanako Games is an affiliate of Winter Wolves, Tycoon Games and sakevisual.

While it might be pricier, the best internet design agencies are nearly at all times the most inventive. Another essential aspect of gamifying the net design process is repeated engagement with the viewers. Any decent sport could have some type of mechanism to maintain players coming again, a core gameplay loop. A well-designed website ought to be the identical, internet hosting features or services that convert viewers into new customers, and retain previously transformed prospects as nicely.

Get helpful recommendations on tips on how to use firm credit score stories when making potentially crucial enterprise decisions. Purchase the company report or an Annual Subscription to view this info. I provide one to 1 classes online or walk and talk until we're out of lockdown fully.

Amuzo harness the ability of play to interact, educate and inspire cell audiences all over the world. They design and develop award-winning, chart topping apps and video games that join a variety of the world's prime brands with their audiences. The duo left Freestyle in 2012 and arrange indie studio Pixel Toys where they began to work on cellular games. Drop Dead Interactive are an independent video games creator, considered one of their games is Gear Gauntlet, a fun but rage inducing 2D action arcade game.

Backed by world famend businesses and the UK government, it'll enhance the development and adoption of emerging applied sciences. Making an actual, everyday difference to individuals from the boardroom to the manufacturing unit floor. Switching from a profession in publishing to technology in her late twenties, she then launched her personal company.

Many of one of the best internet design studios use equipment initially designed for gaming. And why not” Gaming PCs are ubiquitous, powerful and so they look damn good when the lights go on. And whereas they might not be the first thing you think about whenever you think of web design, they’re far more widespread than you suppose. However, the wireless know-how which has caught my consideration and brought a sparkle to my eye this yr is wi-fi charging. Again, not exactly new-new, but Qi charging has really gained traction. HyperX has launched this 12 months, a wi-fi gaming bundle featuring a Qi charging dock that can assist a number of units.

Wireless keyboards and mice used to be less responsive and competitive gamers typically discovered them unreliable as a outcome of a slight delay. However, wireless peripherals have vastly improved and are set to be in style this yr, leading to improved setups for builders and players alike. These days, corporations don't have any selection but to be artistic and supply attendees extra than simply info. Those not keen to push the boundaries are shortly seeing a discount of their attendees’ consideration. Adopting some the methods seen within the esports gaming area and adapting them for B2B summits and conferences is a method to guarantee you maintain your audiences’ consideration, regardless of the distractions. Walk again in time in an event and you could remember that “games” involved a pencil and a chunk of paper, or a white board.

The firm designs front finish web sites and apps in addition to running the whole back workplace expertise platforms required to assist the rigorous online betting business. System three Software is a online game developer and publisher based by Mark Cale. NDreams are a videogame developer/publisher based mostly in Farnborough, UK that concentrate on creating amazing virtual actuality video games, worlds and experiences. The Ninja Theory studio satisfaction themselves on striving for the best production values and regularly pushing the boundaries of technology, artwork and design to create evermore exciting online game experiences. Virtual reality already exists within the gaming industry, nevertheless, it’s nonetheless in its infancy.

Mars on A Stick is an unbiased software program developer ready to benefit from all rising digital markets. Little Wolf Studio specialize in creating new, surreal and beautiful experiences for gamers of all ages. The progressive software permits dealerships to create a fully interactive showcase of their full range of fashions, designs and choices. Playmob is a cause advertising platform designed for ahead pondering organizations which have huge audiences, strong values and a deep commitment to doing good. Their mission is to ‘Set Creativity Free’ and create digital experiences for children as wealthy in creative potentialities as a sheet of paper. The indie recreation developers create their very own recreation titles similar to their first industrial sport ‘Look Out Below’ which came out in 2013 and are currently working on a game called Kindred.

Fundamental Games are a firm believer in nice games being constructed on sturdy foundations and aim to get the core game-play right first after which building up that actually mind-blowing experience. The Supermassive Games studio has received quite a few awards, together with a BAFTA for Until Dawn. The studio additionally works with GamesAid, other charities and educational institutions, delivering each high-end interactive drama and boundary-breaking VR.

They work with a variety of sport publishers, brand owners and digital companies. They have also worked with Cancer Research UK, Knux and an Unnamed HTML5 sport for BBC. Wales Interactive satisfaction themselves on being an unshackled independent developer making their very own concepts completely from our Pencoed studio in South Wales.

“Games studios have the opportunity to develop their own IP with skills traditionally used in mobile games growth for leisure now being turned to social good. In a world the place musicians are being compelled off the street and onto the web to survive, it’s reassuring to see so many different abilities adapt so well to a post-coronavirus society. Fan Studio has been a top iPhone game improvement company for years and is the company of alternative for a lot of businesses across UK, UAE, Canada and USA. Firefly Studios Limited is a online game developer fashioned by Simon Bradbury and Eric Ouellette. Skatanic Studios is a one man sport improvement studio based mostly in Brighton, United Kingdom and headed by Media Production graduate Matt Gambell. Space Ape are a mobile/social gaming startup with a diverse staff of highly gifted and experienced game makers, creating video games that hundreds of thousands of individuals play and love.

#gaming #pc games #android games #latest game

0 notes

newhomesurveys · 3 years

Text

Snagging Survey: Everything You Need to Know

If you are in the process of buying a new house, you’ve probably heard that you have to get a snagging survey. While it is not a legal requirement in Ireland for buyers to commission their own inspection, it is highly recommended that they get one.

It is now best practice in the country and other parts of the world to hire an independent contractor to do a snagging inspection. Doing this may seem unnecessary since developers or builders supposedly inspect the property before turning it over to their buyers. But if you truly want to get the house that you paid for, this step is definitely not something you should skip.

What Is a Snagging Survey?

“Snag” pertains to minor or small defects on the property such as scratches on the windows or scuffed paintwork.

Basically, a snagging survey is a visual inspection done to check the quality of the new-build property. However, this definition can be deceiving as the survey does not just involve looking at the different house parts. A thorough inspection would entail touching surfaces and manipulating certain things to find if they are working.

For example, a professional snagger will open and close windows and doors to find out if they work properly. Similarly, he will turn on appliances to check if they are in good working condition.

While a snag refers to little imperfections or defects, what snagging specialists find are not just cosmetic issues. They also uncover functional problems like faucets that are not working. Sometimes, they come across structural problems like a leaning wall or uneven floors which can make your house unsafe.

What Is the Purpose of a Snagging Survey?

This type of inspection is done to help new build buyers like you ensure that you are getting a house that is built to the highest standards – one that meets the quality you have paid for.

But why is it necessary to do this? Aren’t new build homes supposed to be defect-free?

Ideally, they should have excellent build quality. But this is no longer the reality that many home buyers in Ireland face today. The workmanship in many new-build properties significantly declined over the years. Some were even poorly built that the safety of the inhabitants was threatened.

To protect yourself from getting a substandard home, you need to hire a snagging specialist even if you are working with a trusted developer or builder. Reputable snaggers like New Home Surveys still uncover at least 30 imperfections or snags on properties by competent builders.

You can use the snagging list we give you to negotiate with your contractor on what repairs and outstanding works should be done. It serves as a tool in ensuring that you spend your first few days or months in your new home enjoying everything instead of worrying about spotting defects or fixing them.

When to Get a Snagging Survey in Ireland

The best time to order a snagging report is right before the property is completed and before you exchanged signed contracts. It is easier to get your developer or builder to fix the snags at this stage. Since the deal only gets finalised after the repairs are done, you can count on them to accomplish them quicker. Plus, fixing issues when the house is still empty is also easier.

But not all builders allow inspections before the completion of the project. Refusing access to the property is well within their rights as they are still its owners. In these cases, the snagging survey can be conducted after the project is completed.

Can You DIY the Snagging Survey?

Yes, you can opt to inspect the property yourself. However, this may not be a smart decision, especially if you have no experience in snagging homes.

A thorough inspection of a new build property entails more than just downloading a sample snagging checklist online. Spotting imperfections, especially the most difficult ones to find, requires a trained eye. To have this, you need in-depth knowledge on how to build a house the right way and extensive snagging experience.

Suffice to say, while you can DIY the inspection, it is highly possible that you’d miss several things because of your limited knowledge and experience. So, you may be able to save on money but may end up spending more if you fail to spot critical problems.

Why Let Professionals Do the Snagging Survey?

Snagging specialists are going to spot more imperfections or issues than amateurs or DIYers would. Aside from their knowledge, experience and trained eye, they also have tools essential in conducting a thorough survey.

Furthermore, you can count on professionals to complete the inspection fast and give you the snagging list immediately. Reputable snaggers endeavour to complete the report in a day or two as they recognise that it has an impact on your move-in date.

Despite finishing the survey and report quickly, the quality of their work remains excellent. The inspection is going to be comprehensive. The snagging list is going to be accurate and detailed.

In addition, some snagging specialists can even liaise with your developer or builder on your behalf. This can work to your advantage as they know how to get the other party to agree to fix the issues.

In summary, a new-build home without aesthetic, functional or structural snags is a rarity these days. To protect yourself and your investment, enlist the services of a trusted snagger to inspect the property before you close the deal.

Looking for a qualified professional to do a snagging survey in Dublin, Kildare or Wicklow? We have a team of qualified snaggers who are experienced in inspecting different types of residential properties. Call us today on 0852563277 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about our services!

#Snagging Survey

0 notes

steampunkfan · 6 years

Text

Entrepreneurs On Fire: January 2018 Income Report

January 2018 Income At-A-Glance

Gross Income for January: $205,842

Total Expenses for January: $66,463

Total Net Profit for January: $139,379

Difference b/t January & December: -$4,114

Why We Publish An Income Report

This monthly income report is created for you, Fire Nation!

By documenting the struggles we encounter and the successes we celebrate as entrepreneurs every single month, we’re able to provide you with support – and a single resource – where we share what’s working, what’s not, and what’s possible.

There’s a lot of hard work that goes into learning and growing as an entrepreneur, especially when you’re just starting out. The most important part of the equation is that you’re able to pass on what you learn to others through teaching, which is what we aim to do here.

Let’s IGNITE!

**We’ll receive a commission on the affiliate links below.

Josh Bauerle’s Monthly Tax Tip

What’s up Fire Nation, my name is Josh Bauerle. I’m a CPA and the Founder of CPA On Fire, where we specialize in working with entrepreneurs to minimize their tax liability while keeping them in line with the ever-changing tax laws.

I’ve been working with JLD & Kate at Entrepreneurs On Fire for years now, and they’ve included me in these monthly income reports with unlimited access to all their accounts so I can verify that what they report here is complete and accurate.

And because they believe in delivering an insane amount of value to you, my job doesn’t stop at the verification level; I also provide a new tax and accounting tip every month!

Josh’s January Tax Tip: How to handle the 1099’s you receive

Well Fire Nation, it’s that time of year again: tax season.

As I prepare to go into my tax season hole to grind away at 500+ tax returns, I wanted to give you one last tip to make sure you don’t get hit with an unexpected IRS letter this year.

I want you to ensure the 1099’s you receive are addressed properly.

This may seem like a minor issue, but incorrect 1099’s are one of the biggest reasons we see clients get audited by the IRS.

What happens most often is one of the wonderful people who paid you money over the previous year sends you a 1099 made out to you personally instead of your business. Then, you claim it in the business, and the IRS thinks you failed to claim the income altogether since they expect to see it on your personal return.

Next thing you know, you’re receiving a love letter from the IRS demanding thousands of dollars for unreported income.

Here are a few scenarios that could easily cause this to happen:

You switch your sole proprietor to an S Corp mid-year and either don’t update your clients who issue 1099’s, or they fail to make the change.

Your business is a partnership, but your clients use your personal info for the 1099 not knowing the details of the entity.

You mistakenly fill out your W-9 with your personal info instead of your business info because you weren’t quite sure what they were asking.

I’ve seen incorrect 1099’s issued for all the reasons above – plus many more.

Here are4 steps you can take to make sure you aren’t getting a surprise letter from the IRS due to an incorrect 1099.

1. Check every 1099 you receive to make sure it is issued to the right name and tax ID number.

Unless you are a sole proprietor using your SSN as the business tax ID, your name and/or SSN should never be used on the 1099.

2. If you find a 1099 incorrectly made out to you personally, immediately contact the person or company who sent it and ask them to issue a corrected 1099.

Make sure they send the corrected version to both you and the IRS.

3. If they refuse to issue a corrected 1099 (and some will) you’ll need to note it very carefully on your tax returns.

Assuming the 1099 was made out to you instead of the business, you will claim the 1099 on your personal return Schedule C, and then put an expense for the same amount with the description “Claimed on 1120’s (or whatever business return you file) EIN XX-XXXXXXX”.

Hopefully if you own a business you are using a professional for your taxes, in which case you can simply make sure they’re taking the steps above.

4. Now that we are into a new year, make sure that all your clients who issue 1099’s have your accurate W-9 on file.

You should have one on file at all times with the correct info so you can be sure you are giving new clients the correct info to prevent mistakes in the future.

No more love letters from the IRS, especially ones that could be avoided with some simple due diligence!

By making sure the 1099’s you receive are accurate you can drastically reduce your chances of receiving a nasty letter from our good friends at the IRS.

As always, please feel free to contact me if you’d like to discuss what would be best for YOUR business. I LOVE chatting with Fire Nation!

*Bonus* Claim your spot in Josh’s FREE Course on Business Entities!

David Lizerbram’s Legal Tip

How to Hire a Lawyer for Your Business – Part II

For Part I of this series check out our November 2017 income report

Sooner or later, every business is going to need legal representation. A lawyer can either be:

An expensive line item, or

A huge asset for your business.

As an entrepreneur, it’s up to you to make that choice.

If you haven’t hired a business attorney before, the process can be intimidating. I’ve seen the process many times, having been hired by hundreds of clients to represent them over the course of my career.

When the client (that’s you) is informed and knows what they’re looking for, there’s a much greater likelihood of having a positive result for both sides – the lawyer and the client.

Ultimately, we both want the same thing: a mutually-beneficial, long-term business relationship.

To help you achieve that result, I’ve put together this list: 7 Keys to Choosing the Right Lawyer for Your Business. (For the first 4 points, be sure to check out our November 2017 income report!)

5. Choose a lawyer who brings other resources to the table

Let’s be honest: good legal services aren’t cheap.

Here are some questions you can ask to help get the most bang for your buck:

Does this law firm host regular events for their clients to meet and network? (These may take the form of live events, webinars, or other virtual resources.)

Do they have a network of other attorneys and professionals they can refer you to when you have specialized needs?

Are they members of trade associations or other groups you can benefit from?

Are they willing to make introductions to other clients, potential customers, and strategic partners?

Don’t be afraid to ask these types of questions and dig for detailed answers. But approach this line of inquiry with a bit of skepticism: beware the attorney who over-promises.

Use your best judgment.

6. Do you need a lawyer in your city or state?

This one can vary depending on your specific needs.

Of course, it’s great to be able to meet face-to-face on a regular basis, but I find that even with my local clients, the vast majority of our contacts are through phone and email rather than in person.

If you live in a small town or a place without a lot of lawyers (how depressing!), you may not have easy access to a local attorney who has the skills and experience that you need. And often, that’s not really a problem.

Now, if your attorney has to go to court, he or she may have to live near you, or at least in your state. But for many business law needs, an attorney who lives in another state may be able to serve you just as well. This means that you can cast a wide net and seek out the best legal counsel for you.

So feel free to look for legal counsel outside of your geographic area, but be sure to let them know where you are and confirm that they’ll be able to handle the transactions you require.

Tip: If your business has customers, vendors, or partners in another country, be sure to ask if the firm has relationships with attorneys in that country.

7. Make sure you’re comfortable with their fee structure

Your potential lawyer should not be afraid or nervous to discuss fees with you, and you shouldn’t be hesitant about bringing it up. Whether you’re a solopreneur or seeking legal advice for a big company, you still need to be able to plan for your legal costs.

Traditionally, most business lawyers work on an hourly basis. This means that each attorney has an hourly rate, and the attorney bills in increments of that rate (for example, 1/10 of an hour, with a minimum of 2/10 of any hour for any particular task.)

Some lawyers have moved away from hourly billing entirely and only bill a fixed amount for each service.

The most common approach is a hybrid of hourly and fixed fee billing, depending on the project. For example, if your business needs help with a complex contract negotiation, it can be very difficult for the attorney to estimate the amount of time involved, so billing based on the clock might make the most sense.

But if they’re doing the type of filing that they’ve done many times before, and they know pretty much what it’s going to take, both sides might be better off with a fixed fee for that project.

The most important part of this conversation is to be sure that the arrangement works for you, the client. If you prefer one or the other – hourly, fixed fee, or some other type of arrangement – be sure to communicate that to the attorney.

As long as you’re upfront about your expectations, he or she should be able to work with you; if not, this probably just isn’t a good match.

And that’s OK: as I said at the top, not every attorney-client pairing is a good match. Hopefully, applying these 7 Keys will speed up the process of finding the right match for you and your business.

Bonus Tip: This is not a “Till Death Do Us Part” decision.

Ideally, you’ll establish a relationship with a lawyer that will last for the life of your career. Maybe you’ll even become good friends. But just like with any other type of business relationship, there’s no way to know that on Day 1.

It’s possible the day will come when you have to tell your lawyer “It’s not you, it’s me.” Or whatever your preferred breakup line might be.

Nobody wants to hear this from a client. Believe it or not, lawyers are people too. We have feelings like anyone else. But, for the most part, we’re also professionals, and we know that not all client relationships are going to last forever.

If you get the feeling that you and your lawyer aren’t on the same page, the best thing you can do is pick up the phone and express your concerns. I suggest you avoid doing this over email – despite all the advantages of technology, when things get sticky, it’s best to talk it out whenever possible to avoid escalating the situation.

If you can get together in person, even better.

If that doesn’t work, and the situation just can’t be reconciled, your lawyer is, in most circumstances, obligated to return your files to you or forward them to your new attorney.

If you have funds remaining in the firm’s client trust account (also referred to as a “retainer account” or “IOLTA account,”) those must be returned to you as well.

If you have a legal question that you’d like me to cover on a future Income Report shoot me an email with your request! I’ll be sure to give you a shout-out when I join John & Kate to talk about your legal questions!

*Bonus* Download David’s FREE Checklist on Intellectual Property for Entrepreneurs!

What Went Down In January

Memoir is LIVE!

I’ve always loved biographies, and with Memoir, I have a great excuse to dive deep into the lives of the men and women who changed the world.

The first feature is Alexander the Great, and let me tell you, this man packed a LOT into 32 years.

Visit Memoir.one to listen or visit iTunes here :-)

We hired a Tech Marketing Strategist

Making the decision to hire a tech / marketing strategist on retainer was a big decision – and an even bigger investment.

We’ve always run a super lean team here at Entrepreneurs On Fire, and with our focus shifting towards unraveling the complexity of what our business has become, bringing another consultant on retainer on board wasn’t a quick or easy choice.

This brings our monthly consultant retainer to five (our CPA, our accounting team, our designer, our web guy, and our tech marketing strategist).

But one thing John said during the many conversations we had about hiring a strategist is that being good always keeps us from being great.

One month into our contract we’re feeling great about the decision, and we wasted no time getting straight down to business.

Since she came on board we’ve:

Initiated a full website redesign (with the goal of making the UX 10x better)

Focused in on our campaign conversions

Started to revamp our quiz to more closely relate to our ideal customer

Identified our top 5 focuses for the next 6 months

We’ll keep you posted as we continue on with these exciting projects, and be sure to check out JLD’s Facebook page every once in a while: that’s where we post behind-the-scenes looks at our active projects!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

January 2018 Income Breakdown*

Product/Service Income: $153,835

TOTAL Journal sales: 882 Journals for a total of $32,992

The Freedom Journal: Accomplish your #1 goal in 100 days!

TheFreedomJournal.com: $1,836 (38 Hardcovers & 12 Digital Packs sold!)

Amazon: $16,068 (429 Freedom Journals sold!)

Total: $17,904

The Mastery Journal: Master Productivity, Discipline and Focus in 100 days! +2

TheMasteryJournal.com: $1,671 (33 Hardcovers & 14 Digital Packs sold!)

Amazon: $13,417 (382 Mastery Journals sold!)

Total: $15,088

Podcasters’ Paradise: The #1 Podcasting community in the world!

Recurring: $28,218 (237 monthly, 4 annual)

New members: $14,814 (34 new members)

Total: $43,032

Podcast Sponsorship Income: $72,500

Podcast Websites: $5,000 Your all-in-one podcast website peace of mind

Skills On Fire: $30

Podcast Launch: Audiobook: $228| eBook: $53

Free Courses that result in the above revenue:

Free Podcast Course: A free 15-day course on Podcasting

Free Webinar Course: A free 10-day course on Webinars

Free Goals Course: A free 8-day course on Setting & Accomplishing Goals

Funnel On Fire: A free 8-day course on Creating a Funnel that Converts!

Kickstarter On Fire: A free 5-day course on going from Idea to Launch on Kickstarter!

4 Days To Mastery: A Free 4-day course on how to master Productivity, Discipline & Focus!

Affiliate Income: $52,007

*Affiliate links below

Resources for Entrepreneurs: $37,682

Audible: $512

BlueHost: $600 (Step-by-step guide and 23 WordPress tutorials)

Click Funnels: $25,741

Coaching referrals: $2,747 (email me for an introduction to a mentor for overall online business or a Podcast focused mentor!)

Easy Webinar: $0

Mentorship: $7,500

ConvertKit: $356

Disclaimer Template: $49 (legal disclaimers for your website)

Fizzle: $128

LeadPages: $0

Infusionsoft: $0

SamCart: $49

Courses for Entrepreneurs: $10,546

Create Awesome Online Courses by DSG: $0

Webinars that convert by Amy Porterfield: $485

Copywriting Academy by Ray Edwards: $1,318

10k Readers by Josh Turner: $94

The Amazing Seller by Scott Voelker: $0

Self-Publishing School by Chandler Bolt: $8,500

ASK by Ryan Levesque: $149

Resources for Podcasters: $1,949

Pat Flynn’s Smart Podcast Player: $82

Podcasting Press: $519

Libsyn: $1,246 (Use promo code FIRE for the rest of this month & next free!)

UDemy Podcasting Course: $102

Other Resources: $1,830

Amazon Associates: $711

Other: $1,119

Total Gross Income in January: $205,842

Business Expenses: $63,628

Advertising: $14,674

Affiliate Commissions (Paradise): $1,628

Accounting: $849

Cost of goods sold: $3,175

Consulting: $0

Design & Branding: $952

Education: $15

Legal & Professional: $560

Meals & Entertainment: $475

Merchant / bank fees: $1,190

Amazon fees: $9,081

Shopify fees: $36

PayPal fees: $260

Office expenses: $813 + 123

Payroll Tax Expenses / Fees: $2,016

Paradise Refunds: $2,573

Promotional: $0

Total Launch Package fees: $0

Sponsorships: $11,500

The Freedom & Mastery Journal: $5,000

Travel: $2,555

Virtual Assistant Fees: $4,523

Website Fees: $1,630

Recurring, Subscription-based Expenses: $2,835

Adobe Creative Cloud: $100

Boomerang: $70 (team package)

Brandisty: $24

Authorize.net: $70

Cell Phone: $202

Google: $45

Internet: $154

eVoice: $10

Infusionsoft CRM: $396

Insurance: $551

Libsyn: $258

Manychat: $65

Chatroll: $49

Shopify: $176

TaxJar: $19

MeetEdgar: $19

Taxes & Licenses: $523

Interact Quiz Software: $89

Zoom: $15

Total Expenses in January: $66,463

Payroll to John & Kate: $15,900

In our May 2014 Income Report and our June 2016 Income Report, Josh focuses on how to pay yourself as an entrepreneur. Check them out!

Wondering what we do with all of our net revenue? We share all in our April 2017 Income Report :)

Total Net Profit for January 2018: $139,379

Biggest Lesson Learned

Daily gratitude can go a long way

Have you ever had one of those days where everything is irritating and frustration is around every corner?

It doesn’t matter if you had a great night’s sleep, a kick-butt workout that morning, or the best breakfast in town – something just feels off.

It’s not only causing irritation with just about everything that’s going on around you, but it’s also affecting your productivity and motivation.

WHAT GIVES?

I’ve had more of these days over the past couple of months than I like to admit, and they aren’t fun. I don’t feel like ME, and I know it’s not the way I want to be living my life.

So I’ve done a considerable amount of research around this: what is it that makes these days different from others (besides the fact that I’m irritated and don’t feel very motivated?)

It’s my lack of gratitude.

It’s having a great night’s sleep, but neglecting to wake up and smile because of that.

It’s crushing a kick-butt workout, but then going on with my day like I’m owed that.

It’s making the best breakfast without taking the time to realize that not everyone can do that whenever they want.

Gratitude.

So next time your alarm goes off and you wake up, crush a great workout, have an amazing breakfast, get to kiss your loved one, take a few minutes to call your parents up to tell them you’re thinking of them – don’t take it for granted.

Be Grateful.

Alright Fire Nation, that’s a wrap!

Until next month, keep your FIRE burning!

~ Kate & John

Note: we report our income figures as accurately as possible, but in using reports from a combo of Infusionsoft & Xero to track our product and total income / expenses, they suggest the possibility of a 3 – 5% margin of error.

Click here for all of EOFire’s Income Reports

This post was written by Kate Erickson, Content Creator and Implementer at EOFire. Follow Kate on Social:

The post Entrepreneurs On Fire: January 2018 Income Report appeared first on Entrepreneurs on Fire with John Lee Dumas.

via EntrepreneurOnFire.com | Inspiring interviews w/ today's most successful Entrepreneurs http://ift.tt/2EvIO1K

#IFTTT #EntrepreneurOnFire.com | Inspiring interviews w/ today's most successful Entrepreneurs

5 notes · View notes

nihilisticbotanist · 6 years

Text

Retail is killing my mental well-being

I am not a writer, I do not know how to properly format this or where to even begin. I just need someone to hear me out, just one person to understand where I’m coming from. I also do not want to hear “oh, don’t take it personally”. I’m writing this specifically so I can be anonymous and get my feelings on it out there. I know it’s a lot. I know it’s stupid, and not a big deal, and that I’m blowing it out of proportion. But this is really weighing on me, and I absolutely need to let it out. Please no hate remarks on this. I really appreciate whoever chooses to read this.

I have been working retail for almost a decade. I love helping people, I love making people happy, I love merchandising and creating mannequins. But I hate my job. I cannot leave. I am getting paid far too well to find a comparable job or career. The only experience I have is retail. Currently I am taking classes towards my degree, while still working full time, so that I CAN leave. I simply cannot afford to get another job, plain and simple. I cannot move back home for reasons I will not get into, none bad or anything, I just want to stay anonymous. I am an adult, I have bills, and I am stuck.

The reason I hate my job is also plain and simple in my mind. Everywhere in retail corporations are contradictory rules, statements, etc. Honestly I am so stressed about it because when certain things come up, it’s not only frustrating, but becomes a moral issue with me. I’m mostly talking about “policies” that come about with customers.

I’m tired of being told by corporate to do one thing per policy, only to do the other “based upon customer reaction”. It’s unfair, and I morally do not agree with it. An example would be:

Having only an X day return policy. Me telling customer “I’m sorry, but because you are X time over limit (usually weeks, we are lenient if it’s just a stupid day or few days over), therefore it cannot be refunded in cash or card”. Nice customer: ‘’Oh, alright. I understand.” Not so nice customer: “No I want it back how I purchased it. Are you a manager? Let me speak to a manager.” Management: “Ok we will do it for you this one time.” Which we all know turns into every time when this situation arises.

Now I feel terrible about that. That sucks.

Why should the nice rule-abiding citizens be punished to receive a gift card, or no return at all, yet the grown adults who are getting mad at us for a rule get all they want? This is where my stress comes into play.

This happens with everything whether it be people who forgot coupons, people who want to return year old worn stuff, people who lost their receipt and want their payment back in original form (my job does not have the power to look up receipts or card info).

For me it’s not the point of 100% following the rules, or getting spite on mean people. This is not the point I am trying to make. My point is that there are all these policies and rules, that are constantly getting “swayed” with corporate approval just because someone threw a temper tantrum. We are REWARDING bad behavior. People know if they come in and create a small fuss, they will get what they want. Where all these wonderfully kind-hearted people just sit there and take it when we aren’t supposed to do this or to do that per policy.

All for fear that the company will lose one mean customer. That they will write a bad yelp review. A bad google review. That they will call corporate on us. I get it from a business standpoint. But I also believe that it is morally wrong.

I give you terrible service (i.e. ignoring, being rude/unprofessional). Sure. Please call corporate on me or complain because I am not giving you good service.

I apologize and refuse a return because there are no tags, no receipt, from years past after I explain our policy? You’re just being rude and nasty to me because I cannot give you a coupon that doesn’t even exist? You berate me, call me dumb, make snide remarks about my intelligence when I need a calculator for something (has happened multiple times, by the way!) then you want me to make an exception for you? When I stand there still with a smile on my face, trying to save the situation? No no no. I’m sorry but that is not me “giving you terrible service” per corporate. That is me following the rules, and you getting upset for something out of my control, or even upset because I had to use a calculator for your change my computer didn’t show. But you know what? Management will let you do whatever you want anyway. They always do.

The worst part is that no one even cares how they look or sound. No one thinks I’m a human being who goes home everyday just like them. Who goes to school full time to try to get into the career really truly want. Who sincerely tries to be nice to everyone. Just to go to work and feel bad because I didn’t give a very sweet person a substantial coupon, just because they didn’t ask, per management, then to give that same coupon to the first person who gets irritated about it.

In a way I feel as though we are conditioning people to act out, to act rude, and to act mean. We are rewarding bad behavior, and like a toddler, if we reward it, then it will absolutely be repeated.

There are ABSOLUTELY those customers that come in and just make my day better. There are people so genuinely nice to me. There are always those customers that make your job not seem like a job. It’s so extremely sad to me that I will always remember the people that were nasty to me over the people that were wonderful to me.

I remember that person who called me “a stupid dumb c***” because she thought I didn’t give her back her tax in her even exchange.

I remember someone who stole a bunch of stuff, then demanded and yelled for us to return it for cash (per mgmnt). Even after I spoke about how I saw her take it 10 minutes prior and tried to confront her.

I remember the woman who demanded my undivided attention on a busy day in a crowd. I was helping around 3-4 people at the time, and said “I’s so sorry I will be with you in just one or two minutes alright? I’m currently with a few people.” For her to throw her stuff down, complain about me, and walk out with a discount.

I remember refusing a gentleman a sale, because at that store we swiped the cards at the register, and checked the back of the cards as well. His said “check I.D. Now, we did that anyways if it wasn’t signed, because we actually did have to check the accuracy of name, signature, etc. (high end store). He was with his three daughters, maybe 12-17? “I just need to check your I.D. sir, it also says it on the back you would like me to.” He refused, said his I.D. was at his hotel. “Sir I am really sorry but I am required to check some form of I.D. Do you have anything with your picture and signature I could just check”. He said no. “I apologize, unfortunately I cannot accept this as a form of payment. I would happily hold your stuff behind here if you needed to get cash or a form of I.D. from your car.” He immediately started to cuss at me. F this F that, berating me. I call management over. They process his sale.

Countless others. But even if those wonderful customers make me feel better, and if they help me get through my day, I will always remember the bad over the good.

That really sucks.

“The customer is always right” was the worst phrase to ever happen to the service industry’s employees.

#retail #stress #help #doesanyoneunderstand #pleasebenice #iwanttobenice #work #mylife #service industry #dont be mean #is this how tags work #firstpost #firstpostever #newbie #retailveteran #please understand #somone #anyone

1 note · View note