Dyno air sale
Commercial notices related to electronic circuits, products and equipment
2017.10.06 21:53 1Davide Commercial notices related to electronic circuits, products and equipment
This sub is here to meet the needs of people who want to post commercial notices related to electronic engineering and electronic circuits, products and equipment (services offered or sought, materials for sale or give-away) and who are not served by /Electronics and /AskElectronics. Note: This is not the right place to post about private sales of computers and domestic electrical/electronic goods. Absolutely no advertising of retail shops,
2018.07.29 18:37 CryptoPharaoh Snips
Powering the Snips Private-by-Design, Open Source, Decentralized Voice Assistant
2012.06.07 00:35 Nightshade3312 For the bladesmiths, beauty and destruction, art and skill.
A subreddit for the metalworkers who specialize in forging knives and other blade tools. Swords, daggers, kitchen cutlery, carving chisels, etc. Come in, look around, ask a question, learn, and have fun.
2024.05.15 00:05 about842 In case anyone is looking for a comp to VTOL (Bristow) check out PHIG (PHI GROUP) with catalyst
In case anyone is looking for a comp to VTOL (Bristow) check out PHIG (PHI GROUP)
PHI Group is also in the Helicopter industry (offshore and air medical).
But it is more profitable and has much less debt.
PHI Group is trading at ~25% less of an Enterprise/Sales ratio.
But that difference may end soon as PHIG has filed for an IPO
so that is likely a catalyst.
submitted by about842 to ValueInvesting [link] [comments]
PHI Group is also in the Helicopter industry (offshore and air medical).
But it is more profitable and has much less debt.
PHI Group is trading at ~25% less of an Enterprise/Sales ratio.
But that difference may end soon as PHIG has filed for an IPO
so that is likely a catalyst.
2024.05.15 00:01 oldhousesunder50k c.1920 Small Easy Maintenance Affordable Illinois Home For Sale $59K
https://oldhousesunder50k.com/?p=198993 It is small, it is easy maintenance, and it is an affordable Illinois home for sale for just $59,000. The two bedroom, one bath home has an enclosed front porch, some redeemable hardwood floors, central air and heat, and public water and sewer.
https://oldhousesunder50k.com/?p=198993
submitted by oldhousesunder50k to oldhousesunder50Kplus [link] [comments]
https://oldhousesunder50k.com/?p=198993
2024.05.14 23:26 FrankSanDiego How to Import Furniture from China?
Furniture Flipping on Amazon: Sourcing from China
Have you ever dreamed of turning your passion for furniture into a profitable business?This post explores how you can leverage Amazon's vast marketplace to sell furniture, while also diving into the world of importing from China to find unique and affordable pieces.
1. The Allure of Amazon Furniture Sales:
- Dive into statistics on the growth of online furniture sales and Amazon's dominance in the e-commerce market.
- Explain how Amazon's vast customer base allows you to reach a wider audience compared to local stores.
- Discuss the benefits of Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) for furniture sellers, including storage, packaging, and shipping handled by Amazon, freeing up your time to focus on sourcing and marketing.
- Advise on researching current furniture trends and identifying gaps in the market.
- Offer examples of profitable niches, such as mid-century modern pieces, industrial coffee tables, or space-saving furniture for small apartments.
- Recommend attending trade shows or browsing online marketplaces to identify popular styles and potential customer needs.
- Explain how China is a major furniture manufacturing hub, offering a vast selection of styles at competitive prices, making it an attractive option for furniture importers.
- Discuss the variety of furniture available from China, ranging from classic to modern, and the ability to find unique pieces not readily available elsewhere.
- Briefly mention potential drawbacks of importing furniture from China, such as longer lead times and communication challenges, but emphasize these can be mitigated with proper planning.
- Introduce the concept of sourcing agents who can help you find reliable suppliers in China, negotiate prices, and ensure quality control during the furniture import process.
- Explain how sourcing agents can bridge the language barrier and navigate cultural differences to streamline the buying process for furniture importers.
- Briefly discuss the importance of establishing a clear communication plan with your chosen sourcing agent.
- Break down the import process step-by-step for furniture importers, including:
- Identifying Harmonized System (HS) codes for your furniture (used for customs classification).
- Researching potential import duties and taxes for furniture entering your country.
- Comparing different shipping options (ocean freight vs. air freight) based on cost, speed, and furniture size.
- Discussing the importance of clear product labeling and documentation for customs clearance when importing furniture from China.
- Briefly mention resources available online or through government agencies to help navigate import regulations.
- Emphasize the importance of high-quality product photography showcasing the furniture's details and functionality from multiple angles.
- Explain the power of compelling product descriptions that highlight features, and benefits, and target the specific needs of your chosen niche.
- Briefly discuss the importance of customer service and positive reviews for building trust and repeat business on Amazon.
2024.05.14 23:13 Awesomedogman3 Lost Media
There was always something odd about old cartoons. Whether that is the unhinged nature or the disturbing images. There is something memorable to them. Something that sealed themselves into our childhoods. I remember growing up watching Spongebob and The Fairly Oddparents along with Dexter’s Laboratory. However, there is one cartoon I remember dearly that nobody seems to remember.
Back in 1997 a cartoon that went by the name Smiletime aired on TV. It was made by this cartoon studio located in Pennsylvania that shut down only 4 years after Smiletime’s release. It was loved by viewers, me included. Everyone seemed to love the antic’s that the main crew got into each episode. The parents however found the main crew’s designs to be “unsettling”. The crew was composed of four characters. The go lucky Smiley. The wimpy Crybaby. The always upset Grumpy. And then the shocked Spooky. They all looked the same, wearing overalls and a mask. The only difference was the expression on the mask and the color of their outfit. They were all voiced by male voice actors except for Spooky who was voiced by a female.
Now that I have grown up, I can see why parents hated the designs. Those soulless black eyes and mouths gave off some disturbing feeling.
Funny enough, the show got canceled in 2001 when the studio that made it shutdown. It is a shame since it was reaching millions of viewers per episode. That company had to make millions off the merch sales alone.
Recordings of the show are incredibly rare and valuable. I think I saw one going for $3,000 a while ago. I loved that show back when I was little, but I didn’t love it that much.
I might look more into this show. Maybe it might be the next big piece of lost media. I’ll add updates if I do.
submitted by Awesomedogman3 to creepypasta [link] [comments]
Back in 1997 a cartoon that went by the name Smiletime aired on TV. It was made by this cartoon studio located in Pennsylvania that shut down only 4 years after Smiletime’s release. It was loved by viewers, me included. Everyone seemed to love the antic’s that the main crew got into each episode. The parents however found the main crew’s designs to be “unsettling”. The crew was composed of four characters. The go lucky Smiley. The wimpy Crybaby. The always upset Grumpy. And then the shocked Spooky. They all looked the same, wearing overalls and a mask. The only difference was the expression on the mask and the color of their outfit. They were all voiced by male voice actors except for Spooky who was voiced by a female.
Now that I have grown up, I can see why parents hated the designs. Those soulless black eyes and mouths gave off some disturbing feeling.
Funny enough, the show got canceled in 2001 when the studio that made it shutdown. It is a shame since it was reaching millions of viewers per episode. That company had to make millions off the merch sales alone.
Recordings of the show are incredibly rare and valuable. I think I saw one going for $3,000 a while ago. I loved that show back when I was little, but I didn’t love it that much.
I might look more into this show. Maybe it might be the next big piece of lost media. I’ll add updates if I do.
2024.05.14 22:15 TrackingSystemDirect Used GPS Tracker For Sale - Looking for a used GPS tracker for sale? Discover the pros and cons, and explore money-saving options like Craigslist for great deals.
 | Used GPS Trackers For Sale - Pros vs ConsWhen it comes to finding the best deals and saving some extra cash, we all look for options that fit our budget. Online shopping has become popular due to its potential for better deals. Similarly, in the realm of GPS tracking technology, you might come across live tracking solutions like the SpaceHawk GPS or Tracki Mini. However, if real-time tracking is beyond your budget, there are two options: searching for a used GPS tracker or investing in a highly-rated new one. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of buying a used GPS tracker.Visit Website: https://spacehawkgps.com https://preview.redd.it/kpq4n7ib9g0d1.jpg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5804682ae33830a0528b46dc7a1733968702dff9 https://i.redd.it/l2olfji59g0d1.gif Pros of Buying a Used GPS Tracker
Cons of Buying a Used GPS Tracker
What You Need To Consider When Buying Pre-Owned GPS DevicesIf you're looking to save money, you may consider shopping for used GPS monitoring and fleet management equipment on online auction sites like eBay. While used GPS products can be more affordable than new ones, it's important to be cautious when purchasing a used device. Let's explore the pros and cons of buying used GPS equipment.One downside of buying used GPS equipment is that the manufacturer's warranty becomes void. Once the device changes ownership, you won't have the protection of a warranty if any issues arise with the unit. Another drawback is the possibility of missing parts. Used GPS trackers may be lacking essential components such as rubber gaskets or magnetic mounts, which are necessary for water protection. Even if the device appears to be in good condition, there's a risk of purchasing a tracker with missing parts. Technical support is also a concern when buying used security products. Unlike reputable companies like Tracking System Direct, most resellers and manufacturers don't offer support for pre-owned devices. You won't have assistance for software downloads, accessing driving reports, or utilizing features like Google Earth. On the positive side, purchasing a used GPS device can provide cost savings while still offering tracking and fleet management capabilities. It allows you to acquire the necessary tools at a more affordable price. The truth is, buying a used GPS fleet management device has its advantages and disadvantages. Keep in mind the voided warranty, potential missing parts, and lack of technical support. Choosing a reputable company like Tracking System Direct ensures lifetime technical support, giving you peace of mind. Consider your needs and budget carefully when deciding to purchase used GPS equipment. Learn more about how much does a GPS tracking device costs! Best Buy GPS Tracker CarAs with most things in life, people get what they pay for. However, for those who are no longer interested in purchasing a used GPS system, there are still options available to get a quality product while saving some money. Here is a brief list of what consumers can do:
Buying GPS Devices on Craigslist: A Money-Saving OptionAre you on the lookout for a good deal? With the rise of e-commerce and reduced overhead costs, online merchants are offering savings that are hard to resist. While many think of Craigslist for housing or job searches, it has become a valuable platform for online retailers to boost sales and provide excellent deals, especially for those looking to save money on GPS trackers.Why choose Craigslist over eBay? Here's why online merchants prefer Craigslist:
If you're seeking a budget-friendly GPS tracker, consider browsing Craigslist. Take advantage of the free platform, localized experience, and the opportunity to support local online merchants. Start your search today and seize the chance to find a great deal on a vehicle tracking device! Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I find used vehicle tracking devices for sale on Craigslist or eBay?Yes, both Craigslist and eBay offer a wide selection of used GPS trackers for vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. These platforms provide options from various sellers, including well-known brands like BrickHouse Security, offering devices designed for tracking and surveillance purposes.What should I consider when purchasing a used GPS tracker for my vehicle on eBay or Craigslist?When buying a used GPS tracker, it's important to ensure that the device is compatible with your vehicle and meets your specific tracking needs. Look for features like real-time tracking, 4G GPS capabilities, and magnetic mounting options for easy installation. Additionally, consider the reputation of the seller and the availability of accessories or additional GPS tracking solutions.Should I be cautious when buying used GPS trackers on Craigslist?Yes, it is crucial to exercise caution when purchasing used GPS trackers on Craigslist. Ensure that you thoroughly evaluate the product, ask for any available documentation or history, and if possible, meet the seller in person to inspect the device before finalizing the transaction.How can GPS tracking solutions benefit fleet tracking for my small business?GPS tracking solutions provide valuable fleet tracking capabilities, allowing businesses to monitor and manage their vehicles effectively. With real-time tracking, fleet managers can track the location of vehicles, optimize routes for improved efficiency, and enhance overall fleet performance. GPS tracking also helps with asset tracking and reducing unauthorized vehicle use or theft |
2024.05.14 21:56 sonoflee Quote Review: 2 Stage/AC vs. Variable/heat pump in Michigan
My house is a 1964 ranch in the southern part of Michigan: 1280 sq ft first floor (+ 1280 sq ft conditioned but mostly unfinished basement). I had a blower door test last fall, and things are much tighter than I'd thought - air leakage rate 1364 cf/min @ 50 pascals, with avg fresh air exchange rate of 4.3/day or .18/hour. I sealed and insulated the attic and sprayfoamed the basement sill plate before the test, and would like to add dense-pack cellulose to the walls and replace windows in the future.
My area is 5° F winter / 89° F summer design temp, and CoolCalc says my demand is 55k heating, 24k cooling. The house came with a 1989 Carrier 80% 80k natural gas furnace and ~8 seer 2.5 ton central AC. Ac died last fall, and while furnace seems to be working OK I figure 35 years was a good run and might as well replace it at the same time. I'd do dual fuel if I go with a heat pump, as natural gas is very cheap here. Other note: our power grid is not the best - I expect two or three multiple day outages each year that I use a portable generator to manage.
Most quotes were right in the same range - about 12-13 K after rebates/credits, but the two sales guys that I felt were most knowledgeable were the following:
Option 1
Salesman quoted multiple size options here bc I'm between 60-80K BTU heating / 2-3 ton cooling - he thinks that ducting can support 3 ton HP, and since that is within spec of inverter oversizing for heating load could be best comfort for all eventualities. Will do manual J calculation as part of job (or $350 fee if we don't opt for install).
Option 2
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
In general, I'm wondering what would make more sense: stick with the simpler end (2-stage furnace/single stage AC) and put the money I saved into windows/insulation/eventual HRV/ERV, or go for more potential comfort with variable furnace/inverter heat pump? Let me know what you think, thanks.
submitted by sonoflee to hvacadvice [link] [comments]
My area is 5° F winter / 89° F summer design temp, and CoolCalc says my demand is 55k heating, 24k cooling. The house came with a 1989 Carrier 80% 80k natural gas furnace and ~8 seer 2.5 ton central AC. Ac died last fall, and while furnace seems to be working OK I figure 35 years was a good run and might as well replace it at the same time. I'd do dual fuel if I go with a heat pump, as natural gas is very cheap here. Other note: our power grid is not the best - I expect two or three multiple day outages each year that I use a portable generator to manage.
Most quotes were right in the same range - about 12-13 K after rebates/credits, but the two sales guys that I felt were most knowledgeable were the following:
Company 1
Great reviews, medium sized local operation, more heat pump experience than mostOption 1
- Daikin DM97MC 98% modulating furnace (60K or 80K)
- Daikin DZ6VSA Inverter HP (2 or 3 ton)
- Daikin CAPEA evaporator coil (2-4 ton)
- Daikin DTST-TOU-A communicating thermostat
- new venting/intake
- new lineset if required (3 ton HP option only)
- condensate pump, 5" MERV 11 media filter cabinet
- 2 inline surge protectors included (condensefurnace)
- Warranty: 12 years parts, 1 year labor. Can add Daikin 12 year labor (Asure) for + $990 fee.
Salesman quoted multiple size options here bc I'm between 60-80K BTU heating / 2-3 ton cooling - he thinks that ducting can support 3 ton HP, and since that is within spec of inverter oversizing for heating load could be best comfort for all eventualities. Will do manual J calculation as part of job (or $350 fee if we don't opt for install).
Option 2
- Lennox EL296 70k 96% 2 stage furnace
- Lennox ML14 2.5 ton single stage AC 17 seer Condenser
- Lennox CX35-36B Coil
- Lennox iComfort thermostat
- Warranty: 10 yrs parts, 1 yr labor
- all else same as above
----------------
Company 2
Great reviews, smaller operation, recommended by energy consultants. Highly recommends option 1 (highest degree of improvement for the buck/dependable equipment); generally doesn't think variable is worth it in on a smaller house in our region. For option 2 is unsure of long-term reliability of Bryant's rebranded HP.Option 1
- Bryant 926TC 60,000 2 stage 96% furnace
- Bryant 126SAN 2.5 ton single stage AC 16 SEER2 Condenser
- Bryant 2.5 ton Evaporator Coil 31/17
- Honeywell 8000 thermostat
- new venting/intake
- flush/reuse existing lineset
- condensate pump, 4" media filter cabinet
- Warranty: 10 yr parts, 5 yr labor
Option 2
- Bryant 926TC 60,000 2 stage 96% furnace
- Bryant 38MURA 2.5 ton heat pump instead of AC (requires change of disconnect box, outdoor air temp sensor)
- all else same as above
Option 3
- Bryant 987MB 60,000 modulating 98% furnace
- Bryant 189BNV 3 ton variable 19 SEER2 Condenser
- all else same as above
2024.05.14 21:35 MrFantasticMan1 [S] Weihrauch HW44K .177 With Moderator Excellent Condition World’s Best PCP Pistol [CA] [USA]
![[S] Weihrauch HW44K .177 With Moderator Excellent Condition World’s Best PCP Pistol [CA] [USA]](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/L4H-432nfnda5M9oW_MOCXjYWXh1Hb5XZ8FcAJ6Z4hs.jpg "[S] Weihrauch HW44K .177 With Moderator Excellent Condition World’s Best PCP Pistol [CA] [USA]") | Selling my Weihrauch HW44K .177 PCP Air Pistol in Excellent condition for $499 but price is negotiable. It’s had less than a 100 rounds shot with it. I’m selling it because the area I live in doesn’t have enough pests or game to make it worth it. It comes with everything in the original box and accessories. DM me your offers. I accept Paypal goods and services with established users with references to legit sales from other subreddits or the current one. Otherwise, PayPal Friends and family or CashApp is requested. submitted by MrFantasticMan1 to airgunmarket [link] [comments] |
2024.05.14 21:26 Agreeable_Income3763 May Is Travel Advisor Appreciation Month
May Is Travel Advisor Appreciation Month
Posted on May 14, 2024 by Andrew LarderTravel Advisor Appreciation Month
Some Special Deals:Explora Journeys In the spirit of appreciation for our esteemed Travel Advisors during National Travel Advisor Month, we are offering a bonus. For any new reservation made between May 1-7, 2024, you will earn a bonus EUR 200 Journey Experience Credit per suite. T&Cs: 100 EUR Journey Experience Credit (JEC) pp, 1st and 2nd guest, to auto apply when booking is created between May 1st and May 7th if the Travel Advisor country is US, CA or MX. Applicable to all categories, Combinable with all other offers. Not combinable with Groups.
Exodus Adventure Travels In appreciation of all our travel advisors do, we’re offering you up to 15% off some of Exodus Travels’ most popular trips. Available on selected departures between May 1st and September 30th, 2024. With over 400 trips on sale, it’s a gift that keeps on giving!
Tauck Tauck has extended it’s exclusive Take Off With Tauck air package when they book a 2024 European vacation by July 31, 2024. Offering incredible value with inclusive, upfront, round-trip air rates.
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2024.05.14 21:26 Gluckism cyl 3 misfire
new engine rebuild, currently at 4000 miles, the car WAS running extremely rich due to a bad tune, and during the current process of retuning, cyl3 seems to be misfiring, i never feel it, car feels fine, but it keeps popping up. Spark plugs were replaced with the new engine at 4k miles, is it possible that only running rich for 4k miles caused them to go bad already? injectors were done 15k miles ago along with fuel pump. i replaced the 02 sensor this weekend also (it was extremely dirty)
PowePerformance Mods: -Type RA Shortblock installed @ 133k -Ferrea 6000 series exhaust and intake valves (1mm oversized) -dyno tuned by simple performance -JDM Larger Oil Pump (12mm) -Crawford Air Oil Separator -Killer B Oil Pan/Pickup Kit -Cobb Accessport -Cobb Boost Controller -Blouch 20g XTR Turbo -ID 1000cc Injectors -IA Stumble Kit -DW65 Fuel Pump -TGV Delete -Perrin Turbo Inlet -AEM cold air intake -Tomei Wrapped Equal Length Headers -Tomei Up Pipe -Invidia Wrapped Downpipe -Cobb SS Catback -ETS Top Mount Intercooler -Mishimoto Radiator -GetaDomTune 4th Cyl Cooling mod -Exedy Stage 1 HD Clutch
submitted by Gluckism to WRX [link] [comments]
PowePerformance Mods: -Type RA Shortblock installed @ 133k -Ferrea 6000 series exhaust and intake valves (1mm oversized) -dyno tuned by simple performance -JDM Larger Oil Pump (12mm) -Crawford Air Oil Separator -Killer B Oil Pan/Pickup Kit -Cobb Accessport -Cobb Boost Controller -Blouch 20g XTR Turbo -ID 1000cc Injectors -IA Stumble Kit -DW65 Fuel Pump -TGV Delete -Perrin Turbo Inlet -AEM cold air intake -Tomei Wrapped Equal Length Headers -Tomei Up Pipe -Invidia Wrapped Downpipe -Cobb SS Catback -ETS Top Mount Intercooler -Mishimoto Radiator -GetaDomTune 4th Cyl Cooling mod -Exedy Stage 1 HD Clutch
2024.05.14 21:00 Sola_Sista_94 Cookies 'n' Dreams: Parts Seven and Eight (Fanfic)
"Himiko?" Kokichi knocked on the door to Himiko and Tenko's room later that night. Himiko had taken a long nap after such a disappointing day. But, before she fell asleep, she reflected deeply on what Kokichi had told her. She had to admit that he was right, that she needed to a better attitude about herself. But, how to do that, she didn't know. She suddenly remembered his words: You should be smart, confident, and capable of doing things your way. Her way? What was her way, exactly?
"Himiko?" Kokichi whispered a little louder. Himiko opened her eyes, hearing Kokichi calling out to her. She scrambled out of bed and went over to answer the door. Kokichi smiled at her with his usual cheeky grin. "Hey, sleepyhead! Are you still planning on selling cookies?" Himiko took a deep breath and nodded. Kokichi had given her some courage to actually try things and take chances, to try and overcome self-doubt.
"Yeah. I'm ready," she said. There was still a part of her that didn't want to, but she forced that part of her into silence. She lifted her chin and smiled at him. "I'm ready, Kokichi." Kokichi smiled back at her.
"Alright, Monkey Buns!" he cheered, giving her a high five and then a hug. "Same place?"
"Alright," Himiko nodded. Suddenly, a thought occurred to her. She remembered what Kokichi had told her earlier about being smart and confident her way. "But, on the way over there, can we stop by my, um..." She paused to whisper. "...secret lair? "
"Ooooh?" Kokichi murmured with a curious smile. "Yeah, we can stop by." Himiko nodded and retreated back into her room to grab the two tin bowls of cookies she had baked with Three and Ten.
"Nyeh...okay, I'm ready," Himiko said. Kokichi took her hand in his, and the two crept downstairs. Some of the others were still in the dining room eating dinner, so Kokichi and Himiko had to leave through the front door to get to Himiko's secret magic room under the gazebo. Kokichi stood outside to keep watch while Himiko went inside her magic room. Once inside, she went for her magical dream powder bottle and poured some of its purple, sparkly contents into a small vial, hiding it in one of her jacket's pockets. Then, she met back up with Kokichi.
"Now I'm ready," she said.
"Okie-dokie!" Kokichi replied, taking the tin bowls from Himiko to hold them for her. "Let's go, HimikoCocoa Bean!" They then hurried over to D.I.C.E. headquarters.
"Boss!" Four said, jumping up from the couch. "And Boss Lady!"
"Hey, Ichiro," Kokichi and Himiko replied.
"Wanna hear a song that I heard on the radio?" Four asked. He cleared his throat, and began singing without waiting for a response. "If you like piña coladaaaaas, and getting caught in the rai-"
"Okay, Ichiro, that's enough," Kokichi interrupted, wincing from Four's terrible voice.
"Urgh...thank you!" Five exclaimed as she wrapped Kokichi's cape around him. After Three placed Kokichi's hat on his head, she turned to Himiko.
"So, Himiko, did you sell a lot of cookies?" she asked eagerly. Himiko gave her an apologetic look and shook her head. Three's shoulders slumped.
"Oh..." she said softly.
"What? Why?" Ten asked. "Did they not like them? Because I put all my blood, sweat, and tears into those things! Er...well, not literally...duh."
"Yeah, I hope not!" Two exclaimed, sticking his tongue out in disgust. "I bet there are people in this world who actually do stuff like that!"
"Nee-heehee...I know a very horny someone who'd do something like that," Kokichi said.
"The tin bowls are still so full!" Three said, her voice dripping with disappointment.
"It's not really the cookies that people didn't like, Keiko," Himiko said. "It was because of me."
"What exactly do you mean by that?" Nine asked.
"Well, I'm not really popular at school to begin with," Himiko said. "But, I wasn't really trying my best to sell them because I didn't think I could."
"Ouch," Six muttered.
"Oh, well...still!" Three huffed. "They could have at least tried your cookies, anyways! Those...those...clowns! " Then she turned to nobody in particular. "No offense, me," she mumbled to herself before turning back to Himiko.
"Hey, no offense to the rest of us, either!" Four said.
"Should we take offense?" Nine asked. "It's not like we're actual professional clow-"
"We get it, Hideyo!" everyone but Himiko interrupted simultaneously.
"Nyeh, well...anyways, thanks to Kokichi, I've decided to try again," Himiko said, giving Kokichi a shy smile.
"Aww, HimiCocoa Bean, you're making me blush!" Kokichi teased, wrapping his arm around her waist. "But, I only get half the credit. You should give yourself credit, too!"
"And you should give us those cookies," Four said, pointing to the tin bowls in Kokichi's hand.
"Himiko, are you still going to sell these?" Kokichi asked. Himiko thought for a moment. She remembered what Tsumugi said about chocolate chip cookies being plain and boring.
"No," she finally answered. "Actually, I've decided to go with Ten's plan from earlier."
"Right! Um...wait, what plan was that again?" Ten asked.
"The plan to make the snickerdoodles," Himiko said.
"Oh, yeah!" Ten remembered, a grin crossing his face.
"But, I wanna add a secret ingredient of mine," Himiko said.
"I hope it's not blood, sweat, and tears," Two said, shuddering.
"Why not?" Seven asked with a creepy smile. "Don't you like that salty, metallic flavor in your cookies?"
"Ew! Yuck! Kokichi, make her stop!" Five said, covering her ears.
"Tsukiko, don't make me tell Emi to get Mr. Sparkles," Kokichi warned. Seven hid under a blanket.
"No, please. Anything but that accursed pink and plushy unicorn!" she hissed. Five grinned smugly at her.
"Can we help you bake again, Himiko?" Three asked hopefully.
"Nyeh...of course!" Himiko answered.
"Neat-o! Let's get started!" Ten said, rubbing his hands enthusiastically. Kokichi nodded to Himiko encouragingly, and she followed Three and Ten to the kitchen. They soon got started on the batter. Himiko removed the vial of dream powder from her pocket.
"Oooo! What is that stuff?" Three asked, entranced by the purple, glittery powder.
"Hopefully the thing that'll win over any potential customers," Himiko answered before pouring the powder into the mixture. She mixed the batter until it became a shiny, glittering harmony of many colors.
"Holy Constantinople-y!" Ten exclaimed. "What the heck kind of secret ingredient is that?!"
"The batter looks so...pretty!" Three breathed in awe. "It's so...shiny and sparkly!" Then, she lowered her voice. "Is this...some of your magic, Himiko?"
"Nyeh...that's right," Himiko nodded.
"I know this is might sound like a dumb question, but...are you allowed to do that?" Ten asked.
"Nobody at school knows about my magic except for Kokichi," Himiko said. "So, technically, it's not not allowed. And besides, Kokichi said that I need to be smart and confident my way. And magic is my way of doing just that."
Part Eight
Sunday afternoon. Himiko took a deep breath, deeply breathing in the warm air as a gentle breeze flowed around her. Today, she felt lucky. She stood behind her table at the front of the school. Above her was a more colorful, glittery sign she and Three had worked on with the word, "Snoozydoodles," written in swirly letters. Hopefully it would be enough to bring in some customers. Her snickerdoodles were laid out on three large trays in front of her so that the other students could see their colorful and sparkly design.
"Hiya, Himiko!" came a cheerful voice. Himiko looked up and was surprised to see Three.
"Keiko?" she whispered. "Nyeh...what are you doing here?"
"I decided to come and cheer you on...and to make sure the turd buckets here buy your cookies," Three replied. "I put some love and special care into those cookies, and I didn't bust my tail just to have nobody buy them!"
"Nyeh...but...Ten and I worked on them, too," Himiko pointed out. "And I put my 'special ingredient' in them."
"I know," Three said. "But, I feel like if I worked hard on something, either by myself or in a group, I'd like for the world to see it, that's all."
"I understand," Himiko said with a small smile. "Wait...this is supposed to be a competition between me and Kokichi! I don't think he'd appreciate you helping me out, especially since I should be doing this myself."
"Well, I'll just be here for emotional support, then!" Three said. Himiko smiled gratefully and nodded.
"I guess that's okay," she said. " Thanks, Keiko. I like your outfit, by the way." Three scanned her outfit proudly. Instead of her D.I.C.E. uniform, she wore an oversized, cream-colored fluffy sweater over a short, pink ruffled skirt. She wore a pair of white tights with some loose pink socks and a pair of black and white checkered lolita shoes with pink straps. In her hair were pink bows over each pigtail.
"Eeee! Thank you!" she squealed happily. "It's not very often I get to go out in cutesy clothes like this, unless I'm undercover! Well...I guess you might say I'm going undercover right now, but...eh, whatever."
"Speaking of which, why are your shoes checkered?" Himiko asked. "Won't that give you away? Part of the reason why people know your organization is because of the checker pattern scarves...which makes me wonder how people haven't suspected Kokichi being part of...you-know-what."
"Heehee...I call that the 'Sailor Moon Effect,'" Three giggled. "But, anyway, when members of the organization are wearing casual clothes, we have to wear some article of clothing with a black and white checkered pattern to let other members know our affiliation. The beauty of it is that there are people not affiliated with us who wear checker patterned clothing, so it gives us a chance to blend in as if we're just regular people. That's why we have a codeword to tell the difference between members and the 'reggies.'"
"What's the codeword?" Himiko asked. Three leaned in closer to Himiko.
"'Funny business,' " she whispered.
"Nyeh...that's actually really cool," Himiko admitted with a smile.
"Yeah! You should really join, Himiko!" Three said. "I think you'll have lots of fun!"
"Fun with what?" asked Tenko, suddenly appearing with Angie and Tsumugi behind her. She had a frown on her face and marched right up to Three. "Himiko, who's this girl, and what's she trying to get you to join? WAIT!! Is this girl the friend you were talking about?! The one who helped you bake cookies yesterday?!"
"Yeah," Himiko nodded.
"Hey! I recognize you!" Angie said. "You're one of the girls who rescued Himiko from that crazy girl many months ago!" Three brightened.
"Yeah! That's me!" she said.
"Tuh...I could have rescued Himiko, you know," Tenko huffed, crossing her arms and glaring at Three.
"Well...why didn't you?" Three asked.
"Urgh...!" Tenko scoffed. "Who do you think you are?!"
"I'm Michika!" Three lied, using one of her aliases. "I'm here to support Himiko with her cookie sale!"
"She doesn't need your support," Tenko said, stepping in between Three and Himiko. "Himiko already has me! Right, Himiko?"
"Umm..." Himiko mumbled.
"Of course you do!" Tenko interrupted.
"But...you didn't even let her finish," Three said.
"I didn't have to," Tenko said. "I already knew what she was thinking because we're best friends."
"Well...then...if you're her best friend, why dont'cha buy a cookie?" Three suggested craftily.
"Hmph! I will!" Tenko scoffed and turned to Himiko. "How much for a cookie, Himiko?"
"Nyeh...same as before," Himiko answered. Tenko paid ¥500 and grabbed a shimmery, glittering light green snickerdoodle from one of the trays. "Ooo, these are pretty, Himiko! Did you bake them all by yourself?"
"No, um...Michika helped me again," Himiko answered. Tenko glared at Three and flipped her hair at her.
"Well...they're okay, then," she said haughtily. "But, they're extra special because you helped, Himiko!"
"What are these cookies called, Himiko?" Tsumugi asked, scrutinizing a glittering blue cookie.
"Nyeh...they're called 'Snoozydoodles,'" Himiko answered. "They're snickerdoodles, but a special kind of snickerdoodles."
"Oooo! Why are they called 'Snoozydoodles?'" asked Angie.
"You have to eat them right before going to sleep to find out," Himiko answered mysteriously. Tenko hovered her cookie in front of her mouth.
"Oh! So, I have to eat this right before bed?" she asked.
"That's right," Himiko nodded.
"Aw, that's so creative, Himiko!" Tenko cried in adoration. "You're really clever, too! I bet you thought of the name!" Three rolled her eyes in annoyance. Himiko provided a little baggy for Tenko to put her cookie in, and provided some for Angie and Tsumugi, as well, after they had paid for their cookies.
"Thank you, Himiko," Tsumugi said.
"Yes! Yes! Thank you, Himiko!" Angie chirped.
"Well...I guess we'd better try out the other cookies," Tsumugi said. "Everyone else said they'd have different flavors of cookies, too. Although, I don't think I'll try Kokichi's after what happened yesterday. I can plainly still feel the burn on my tongue."
"Hmm...I thought his cookies were divine!" Angie exclaimed. "I have never felt such an intense rush of heat before! Especially in a cookie!"
"Leave it up to a degenerate male to bake something so...horrible! " Tenko spat. Three raised a brow at her.
"Degenerate male?" she repeated. She didn't like hearing her boss being referred to that way.
"Yeah! Males are all scum of the Earth!" Tenko said. "Kind of like...best friend stealers."
"I wasn't trying to steal your best friend," Three said, fed up with Tenko.
"Huh...why did you assume I was talking about you? " Tenko asked. "You know what happens to people who assume things, don't you?"
"They end up knocking all 32 teeth out of the person accusing them of assuming things?" Three replied, trying to keep her cool.
"And you're violent!" Tenko shouted. "You're clearly a bad influence on Himiko!" Three stared at her in disbelief, creating an awkward silence to linger in the air.
"Well, um...I guess we should be going then," Tsumugi said, hurriedly yanking Angie away. "C'mon, Angie. Tenko? Are you coming?"
"No. I think I'll stay right here and help Himiko, since she clearly needs my support," Tenko said, glowering at Three.
"Tenko..." Himiko sighed in exasperation, but Three merely smiled sweetly at Tenko.
"Oh, my gosh! Where'd you get your outfit?" she asked. Tenko looked down quizzically at her outfit.
"W-Why...do you want to know?" she replied with suspicion.
"It's just so pretty!" Three replied. "Are you, like, the Ultimate Princess, or the Ultimate Cheerleader, or something?"
"Um...n-no...I'm the Ultimate Aikido Master," Tenko stammered as a small blush appeared on her face.
"Oh, wow! That's even better!" Three exclaimed. "I bet you give those...degenerate males...what they deserve all the time!" The hardened look on Tenko's face from before disappeared.
"You bet I do!" she said proudly.
"Oh...I wish I could be like you!" Three breathed. "You're, like, my hero! I bet you're a hero to girls everywhere!" Tenko lowered her head bashfully, blushing like crazy.
"N-No...I'm not all that...great," she sputtered.
"I bet you'd do anything for girls, huh?" Three asked.
"Oh, yes!" Tenko answered. "So long as you aren't a degenerate male, you're a friend of mine!"
Says the girl who just accused me of stealing her best friend, Three thought to herself. "Hooray! I'm happy to hear that! But...to tell you the truth, I can't believe you just ditched your other friends. They were girls, after all, and you just let them walk right into the school where they could be potential prey for those boys-er...I mean, degenerate males." Tenko gasped with realization.
"Oh, my gosh! You're so right!" she cried. "But...what about Himiko?"
"I'll look after her," Three said. "You trust me, right? I am a girl after all."
"Ohhh...well, okay," Tenko said. Then, she smiled. "I'll trust you, Michika! Take care of Himiko!"
"Oh, I will!" Three said. "Bye! Goodbye!" Tenko waved goodbye, leaving Himiko and Three alone. Three exhaled. "Finally, she's gone!" Himiko stared at her in amazement.
"Nyeh...that was incredible!" she cried. Three shrugged modestly.
"Yeah, I guess I picked up a little bit of manipulation skills from the boss," she said. "He's way better at it than I am, though! That girl was so annoying, by the way! Is she seriously your best friend?!"
"Well, yeah, I guess," Himiko answered. "She wants to support and protect me all the time."
"Sounds more like she wants to breastfeed you, or wipe your butt after you poop," Three said in disgust. She and Himiko shuddered at the thought. "Well, anyways, now that 'Tin Cup' is gone, let's put you on the cookie map!"
"Right!" Himiko said, and gave Three a high five.
submitted by Sola_Sista_94 to danganronpa [link] [comments]
"Himiko?" Kokichi whispered a little louder. Himiko opened her eyes, hearing Kokichi calling out to her. She scrambled out of bed and went over to answer the door. Kokichi smiled at her with his usual cheeky grin. "Hey, sleepyhead! Are you still planning on selling cookies?" Himiko took a deep breath and nodded. Kokichi had given her some courage to actually try things and take chances, to try and overcome self-doubt.
"Yeah. I'm ready," she said. There was still a part of her that didn't want to, but she forced that part of her into silence. She lifted her chin and smiled at him. "I'm ready, Kokichi." Kokichi smiled back at her.
"Alright, Monkey Buns!" he cheered, giving her a high five and then a hug. "Same place?"
"Alright," Himiko nodded. Suddenly, a thought occurred to her. She remembered what Kokichi had told her earlier about being smart and confident her way. "But, on the way over there, can we stop by my, um..." She paused to whisper. "...secret lair? "
"Ooooh?" Kokichi murmured with a curious smile. "Yeah, we can stop by." Himiko nodded and retreated back into her room to grab the two tin bowls of cookies she had baked with Three and Ten.
"Nyeh...okay, I'm ready," Himiko said. Kokichi took her hand in his, and the two crept downstairs. Some of the others were still in the dining room eating dinner, so Kokichi and Himiko had to leave through the front door to get to Himiko's secret magic room under the gazebo. Kokichi stood outside to keep watch while Himiko went inside her magic room. Once inside, she went for her magical dream powder bottle and poured some of its purple, sparkly contents into a small vial, hiding it in one of her jacket's pockets. Then, she met back up with Kokichi.
"Now I'm ready," she said.
"Okie-dokie!" Kokichi replied, taking the tin bowls from Himiko to hold them for her. "Let's go, HimikoCocoa Bean!" They then hurried over to D.I.C.E. headquarters.
"Boss!" Four said, jumping up from the couch. "And Boss Lady!"
"Hey, Ichiro," Kokichi and Himiko replied.
"Wanna hear a song that I heard on the radio?" Four asked. He cleared his throat, and began singing without waiting for a response. "If you like piña coladaaaaas, and getting caught in the rai-"
"Okay, Ichiro, that's enough," Kokichi interrupted, wincing from Four's terrible voice.
"Urgh...thank you!" Five exclaimed as she wrapped Kokichi's cape around him. After Three placed Kokichi's hat on his head, she turned to Himiko.
"So, Himiko, did you sell a lot of cookies?" she asked eagerly. Himiko gave her an apologetic look and shook her head. Three's shoulders slumped.
"Oh..." she said softly.
"What? Why?" Ten asked. "Did they not like them? Because I put all my blood, sweat, and tears into those things! Er...well, not literally...duh."
"Yeah, I hope not!" Two exclaimed, sticking his tongue out in disgust. "I bet there are people in this world who actually do stuff like that!"
"Nee-heehee...I know a very horny someone who'd do something like that," Kokichi said.
"The tin bowls are still so full!" Three said, her voice dripping with disappointment.
"It's not really the cookies that people didn't like, Keiko," Himiko said. "It was because of me."
"What exactly do you mean by that?" Nine asked.
"Well, I'm not really popular at school to begin with," Himiko said. "But, I wasn't really trying my best to sell them because I didn't think I could."
"Ouch," Six muttered.
"Oh, well...still!" Three huffed. "They could have at least tried your cookies, anyways! Those...those...clowns! " Then she turned to nobody in particular. "No offense, me," she mumbled to herself before turning back to Himiko.
"Hey, no offense to the rest of us, either!" Four said.
"Should we take offense?" Nine asked. "It's not like we're actual professional clow-"
"We get it, Hideyo!" everyone but Himiko interrupted simultaneously.
"Nyeh, well...anyways, thanks to Kokichi, I've decided to try again," Himiko said, giving Kokichi a shy smile.
"Aww, HimiCocoa Bean, you're making me blush!" Kokichi teased, wrapping his arm around her waist. "But, I only get half the credit. You should give yourself credit, too!"
"And you should give us those cookies," Four said, pointing to the tin bowls in Kokichi's hand.
"Himiko, are you still going to sell these?" Kokichi asked. Himiko thought for a moment. She remembered what Tsumugi said about chocolate chip cookies being plain and boring.
"No," she finally answered. "Actually, I've decided to go with Ten's plan from earlier."
"Right! Um...wait, what plan was that again?" Ten asked.
"The plan to make the snickerdoodles," Himiko said.
"Oh, yeah!" Ten remembered, a grin crossing his face.
"But, I wanna add a secret ingredient of mine," Himiko said.
"I hope it's not blood, sweat, and tears," Two said, shuddering.
"Why not?" Seven asked with a creepy smile. "Don't you like that salty, metallic flavor in your cookies?"
"Ew! Yuck! Kokichi, make her stop!" Five said, covering her ears.
"Tsukiko, don't make me tell Emi to get Mr. Sparkles," Kokichi warned. Seven hid under a blanket.
"No, please. Anything but that accursed pink and plushy unicorn!" she hissed. Five grinned smugly at her.
"Can we help you bake again, Himiko?" Three asked hopefully.
"Nyeh...of course!" Himiko answered.
"Neat-o! Let's get started!" Ten said, rubbing his hands enthusiastically. Kokichi nodded to Himiko encouragingly, and she followed Three and Ten to the kitchen. They soon got started on the batter. Himiko removed the vial of dream powder from her pocket.
"Oooo! What is that stuff?" Three asked, entranced by the purple, glittery powder.
"Hopefully the thing that'll win over any potential customers," Himiko answered before pouring the powder into the mixture. She mixed the batter until it became a shiny, glittering harmony of many colors.
"Holy Constantinople-y!" Ten exclaimed. "What the heck kind of secret ingredient is that?!"
"The batter looks so...pretty!" Three breathed in awe. "It's so...shiny and sparkly!" Then, she lowered her voice. "Is this...some of your magic, Himiko?"
"Nyeh...that's right," Himiko nodded.
"I know this is might sound like a dumb question, but...are you allowed to do that?" Ten asked.
"Nobody at school knows about my magic except for Kokichi," Himiko said. "So, technically, it's not not allowed. And besides, Kokichi said that I need to be smart and confident my way. And magic is my way of doing just that."
Part Eight
Sunday afternoon. Himiko took a deep breath, deeply breathing in the warm air as a gentle breeze flowed around her. Today, she felt lucky. She stood behind her table at the front of the school. Above her was a more colorful, glittery sign she and Three had worked on with the word, "Snoozydoodles," written in swirly letters. Hopefully it would be enough to bring in some customers. Her snickerdoodles were laid out on three large trays in front of her so that the other students could see their colorful and sparkly design.
"Hiya, Himiko!" came a cheerful voice. Himiko looked up and was surprised to see Three.
"Keiko?" she whispered. "Nyeh...what are you doing here?"
"I decided to come and cheer you on...and to make sure the turd buckets here buy your cookies," Three replied. "I put some love and special care into those cookies, and I didn't bust my tail just to have nobody buy them!"
"Nyeh...but...Ten and I worked on them, too," Himiko pointed out. "And I put my 'special ingredient' in them."
"I know," Three said. "But, I feel like if I worked hard on something, either by myself or in a group, I'd like for the world to see it, that's all."
"I understand," Himiko said with a small smile. "Wait...this is supposed to be a competition between me and Kokichi! I don't think he'd appreciate you helping me out, especially since I should be doing this myself."
"Well, I'll just be here for emotional support, then!" Three said. Himiko smiled gratefully and nodded.
"I guess that's okay," she said. " Thanks, Keiko. I like your outfit, by the way." Three scanned her outfit proudly. Instead of her D.I.C.E. uniform, she wore an oversized, cream-colored fluffy sweater over a short, pink ruffled skirt. She wore a pair of white tights with some loose pink socks and a pair of black and white checkered lolita shoes with pink straps. In her hair were pink bows over each pigtail.
"Eeee! Thank you!" she squealed happily. "It's not very often I get to go out in cutesy clothes like this, unless I'm undercover! Well...I guess you might say I'm going undercover right now, but...eh, whatever."
"Speaking of which, why are your shoes checkered?" Himiko asked. "Won't that give you away? Part of the reason why people know your organization is because of the checker pattern scarves...which makes me wonder how people haven't suspected Kokichi being part of...you-know-what."
"Heehee...I call that the 'Sailor Moon Effect,'" Three giggled. "But, anyway, when members of the organization are wearing casual clothes, we have to wear some article of clothing with a black and white checkered pattern to let other members know our affiliation. The beauty of it is that there are people not affiliated with us who wear checker patterned clothing, so it gives us a chance to blend in as if we're just regular people. That's why we have a codeword to tell the difference between members and the 'reggies.'"
"What's the codeword?" Himiko asked. Three leaned in closer to Himiko.
"'Funny business,' " she whispered.
"Nyeh...that's actually really cool," Himiko admitted with a smile.
"Yeah! You should really join, Himiko!" Three said. "I think you'll have lots of fun!"
"Fun with what?" asked Tenko, suddenly appearing with Angie and Tsumugi behind her. She had a frown on her face and marched right up to Three. "Himiko, who's this girl, and what's she trying to get you to join? WAIT!! Is this girl the friend you were talking about?! The one who helped you bake cookies yesterday?!"
"Yeah," Himiko nodded.
"Hey! I recognize you!" Angie said. "You're one of the girls who rescued Himiko from that crazy girl many months ago!" Three brightened.
"Yeah! That's me!" she said.
"Tuh...I could have rescued Himiko, you know," Tenko huffed, crossing her arms and glaring at Three.
"Well...why didn't you?" Three asked.
"Urgh...!" Tenko scoffed. "Who do you think you are?!"
"I'm Michika!" Three lied, using one of her aliases. "I'm here to support Himiko with her cookie sale!"
"She doesn't need your support," Tenko said, stepping in between Three and Himiko. "Himiko already has me! Right, Himiko?"
"Umm..." Himiko mumbled.
"Of course you do!" Tenko interrupted.
"But...you didn't even let her finish," Three said.
"I didn't have to," Tenko said. "I already knew what she was thinking because we're best friends."
"Well...then...if you're her best friend, why dont'cha buy a cookie?" Three suggested craftily.
"Hmph! I will!" Tenko scoffed and turned to Himiko. "How much for a cookie, Himiko?"
"Nyeh...same as before," Himiko answered. Tenko paid ¥500 and grabbed a shimmery, glittering light green snickerdoodle from one of the trays. "Ooo, these are pretty, Himiko! Did you bake them all by yourself?"
"No, um...Michika helped me again," Himiko answered. Tenko glared at Three and flipped her hair at her.
"Well...they're okay, then," she said haughtily. "But, they're extra special because you helped, Himiko!"
"What are these cookies called, Himiko?" Tsumugi asked, scrutinizing a glittering blue cookie.
"Nyeh...they're called 'Snoozydoodles,'" Himiko answered. "They're snickerdoodles, but a special kind of snickerdoodles."
"Oooo! Why are they called 'Snoozydoodles?'" asked Angie.
"You have to eat them right before going to sleep to find out," Himiko answered mysteriously. Tenko hovered her cookie in front of her mouth.
"Oh! So, I have to eat this right before bed?" she asked.
"That's right," Himiko nodded.
"Aw, that's so creative, Himiko!" Tenko cried in adoration. "You're really clever, too! I bet you thought of the name!" Three rolled her eyes in annoyance. Himiko provided a little baggy for Tenko to put her cookie in, and provided some for Angie and Tsumugi, as well, after they had paid for their cookies.
"Thank you, Himiko," Tsumugi said.
"Yes! Yes! Thank you, Himiko!" Angie chirped.
"Well...I guess we'd better try out the other cookies," Tsumugi said. "Everyone else said they'd have different flavors of cookies, too. Although, I don't think I'll try Kokichi's after what happened yesterday. I can plainly still feel the burn on my tongue."
"Hmm...I thought his cookies were divine!" Angie exclaimed. "I have never felt such an intense rush of heat before! Especially in a cookie!"
"Leave it up to a degenerate male to bake something so...horrible! " Tenko spat. Three raised a brow at her.
"Degenerate male?" she repeated. She didn't like hearing her boss being referred to that way.
"Yeah! Males are all scum of the Earth!" Tenko said. "Kind of like...best friend stealers."
"I wasn't trying to steal your best friend," Three said, fed up with Tenko.
"Huh...why did you assume I was talking about you? " Tenko asked. "You know what happens to people who assume things, don't you?"
"They end up knocking all 32 teeth out of the person accusing them of assuming things?" Three replied, trying to keep her cool.
"And you're violent!" Tenko shouted. "You're clearly a bad influence on Himiko!" Three stared at her in disbelief, creating an awkward silence to linger in the air.
"Well, um...I guess we should be going then," Tsumugi said, hurriedly yanking Angie away. "C'mon, Angie. Tenko? Are you coming?"
"No. I think I'll stay right here and help Himiko, since she clearly needs my support," Tenko said, glowering at Three.
"Tenko..." Himiko sighed in exasperation, but Three merely smiled sweetly at Tenko.
"Oh, my gosh! Where'd you get your outfit?" she asked. Tenko looked down quizzically at her outfit.
"W-Why...do you want to know?" she replied with suspicion.
"It's just so pretty!" Three replied. "Are you, like, the Ultimate Princess, or the Ultimate Cheerleader, or something?"
"Um...n-no...I'm the Ultimate Aikido Master," Tenko stammered as a small blush appeared on her face.
"Oh, wow! That's even better!" Three exclaimed. "I bet you give those...degenerate males...what they deserve all the time!" The hardened look on Tenko's face from before disappeared.
"You bet I do!" she said proudly.
"Oh...I wish I could be like you!" Three breathed. "You're, like, my hero! I bet you're a hero to girls everywhere!" Tenko lowered her head bashfully, blushing like crazy.
"N-No...I'm not all that...great," she sputtered.
"I bet you'd do anything for girls, huh?" Three asked.
"Oh, yes!" Tenko answered. "So long as you aren't a degenerate male, you're a friend of mine!"
Says the girl who just accused me of stealing her best friend, Three thought to herself. "Hooray! I'm happy to hear that! But...to tell you the truth, I can't believe you just ditched your other friends. They were girls, after all, and you just let them walk right into the school where they could be potential prey for those boys-er...I mean, degenerate males." Tenko gasped with realization.
"Oh, my gosh! You're so right!" she cried. "But...what about Himiko?"
"I'll look after her," Three said. "You trust me, right? I am a girl after all."
"Ohhh...well, okay," Tenko said. Then, she smiled. "I'll trust you, Michika! Take care of Himiko!"
"Oh, I will!" Three said. "Bye! Goodbye!" Tenko waved goodbye, leaving Himiko and Three alone. Three exhaled. "Finally, she's gone!" Himiko stared at her in amazement.
"Nyeh...that was incredible!" she cried. Three shrugged modestly.
"Yeah, I guess I picked up a little bit of manipulation skills from the boss," she said. "He's way better at it than I am, though! That girl was so annoying, by the way! Is she seriously your best friend?!"
"Well, yeah, I guess," Himiko answered. "She wants to support and protect me all the time."
"Sounds more like she wants to breastfeed you, or wipe your butt after you poop," Three said in disgust. She and Himiko shuddered at the thought. "Well, anyways, now that 'Tin Cup' is gone, let's put you on the cookie map!"
"Right!" Himiko said, and gave Three a high five.
2024.05.14 20:46 Impossible_444 Northrop Grumman (NOC) 1Q24 Earnings Call Takeaways (from EarningsDigest.ai)
Northrop Grumman's (NOC) 1Q24 revenue grew by 9% Y/Y, with segment operating income of $1.1 billion, reflecting a 10% increase. The company's margin rate was 10.9%, driven by cost efficiency measures and program performance.
By segment, Aeronautics was particularly strong, up 18%, driven by higher volume on the B-21 program and mature production programs such as the F-35. Defense Systems sales increased by 3%, primarily due to growth on multiple programs in the weapons business. Mission system sales grew by 4%, led by rapid growth on advanced microelectronics programs in their restricted portfolio. Space sales also increased by 9%, driven by broad-based growth throughout the portfolio, including on the SDA Transport Layer programs as they continued to ramp.
Management reaffirmed 2024 guidance and remains optimistic about the long-term outlook given robust support for key programs, confidence in international market opportunities such as Poland's air and missile defense systems, sensor modernization efforts, autonomous systems demand, ammunition needs, and investments in microelectronics and production capacity expansions.
The call also highlighted several risks, including:
1/ Slowdown in the U.S. defense budget growth: While there has been robust support for Northrop Grumman's program portfolio in the U.S. fiscal year 2024 defense budget, the company anticipates a somewhat slower top-line growth environment for the U.S. defense budget in the short term.
2/ Nunn-McCurdy Review: While management expressed confidence in the Sentinel Program's long-term outlook, it mentioned that it is supporting the Nunn-McCurdy review, indicating potential headwinds from this process.
3/ Impact on Space Sector: The NGI decision and the contract termination in restricted space have resulted in a lower sales growth outlook for the Space sector, which is expected to grow at approximately 3% annually.
Want to learn more about 1Q Earnings? See us at https://www.earningsdigest.ai/stock/analyze/NOC-2024-Q1
submitted by Impossible_444 to earningsdigest [link] [comments]
By segment, Aeronautics was particularly strong, up 18%, driven by higher volume on the B-21 program and mature production programs such as the F-35. Defense Systems sales increased by 3%, primarily due to growth on multiple programs in the weapons business. Mission system sales grew by 4%, led by rapid growth on advanced microelectronics programs in their restricted portfolio. Space sales also increased by 9%, driven by broad-based growth throughout the portfolio, including on the SDA Transport Layer programs as they continued to ramp.
Management reaffirmed 2024 guidance and remains optimistic about the long-term outlook given robust support for key programs, confidence in international market opportunities such as Poland's air and missile defense systems, sensor modernization efforts, autonomous systems demand, ammunition needs, and investments in microelectronics and production capacity expansions.
The call also highlighted several risks, including:
1/ Slowdown in the U.S. defense budget growth: While there has been robust support for Northrop Grumman's program portfolio in the U.S. fiscal year 2024 defense budget, the company anticipates a somewhat slower top-line growth environment for the U.S. defense budget in the short term.
2/ Nunn-McCurdy Review: While management expressed confidence in the Sentinel Program's long-term outlook, it mentioned that it is supporting the Nunn-McCurdy review, indicating potential headwinds from this process.
3/ Impact on Space Sector: The NGI decision and the contract termination in restricted space have resulted in a lower sales growth outlook for the Space sector, which is expected to grow at approximately 3% annually.
Want to learn more about 1Q Earnings? See us at https://www.earningsdigest.ai/stock/analyze/NOC-2024-Q1
2024.05.14 20:21 Ill_Variation_2480 TTPD's new nickname "Female Rage: The Musical" should upset you.
Edit: If you are going to comment on the length of this post, please don't. This is not a simple snark but rather an actual critical think piece about feminism and Taylor Swift.
Taylor's target demographic has always been young or adolescent girls, more so when Swift herself was one. She made music that spoke to the awkward misfit, cultivating a para-social relationship with fans on MySpace, then later twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, where Taylor posted relatable vlogs showcasing the life of a homegrown American girl. Taylor had a delayed public "growing up" and, compared to her female pop contemporaries, Swift never "gratuitously sexualized her image and seems pathologically averse to controversy" (and, apparently, never even had a sip of alcohol until she turned 21). She was more than happy to spin this narrative to allude to an inherent moral superiority above other women in the industry (Better Than Revenge, heard of it?), engaging in the very slut-shaming that she herself endured (the Madonna and Whore archetypes). The victim complex arose with the need to prove Taylor as a different type of pop girl. Based upon her holy and clean image, Swift had been dubbed "a feminist's nightmare", and that "[To Swift] other girls are obstacles; undeserving enemies who steal Taylor’s soulmates with their bewitching good looks and sexual availability." Feminism and Tennessee-Christian country values don't exactly mix, it seems.
Years later, Swift befriended Lena Dunham and thus experienced white feminism osmosis, where Dunham taught Swift that real feminists defend rapists, makes insensitive jokes about rape and abortion, and prioritize all-white casts. Swift then declared herself a feminist in 2014, saying,
There was that time in 2015 Taylor said that Nicki Minaj was "invited to any stage [she is] on" (as if Taylor expects to have access to every stage, award, and platform that Nicki might not otherwise have as a black female artist...yikes!) in response to Nicki's criticism of the white + thin VMA nominations. Later, Nicki responded with confusion, as Swift continued, "It’s unlike you to pit women against each other. Maybe one of the men took your slot..". Of course, this 'beef' was 'squashed' when Nicki performed with Taylor at the VMAs, with Nicki quite literally only having 38 seconds of stage time without Taylor. Maybe all that parading around with a legion of famous white women - similar to the way Taylor might've done with her numerous 1989-era handbags - was in fact a stance against gender inequality, and that this display of "girl power" should be enough to constitute Swift as a feminist icon.
Even while Swift says that Dunham informed her feminist outlook, she dances around the exact contents of those beliefs: "what she believes, what she says, what she stands for" is not exactly insightful towards what beliefs Swift might have inherited. Taylor never broaches women's rights topics such femicide, FGM, forced pregnancy & marriage, sex trafficking, women in slavery, women's financial and political oppression, women's educational rights, women's health, or women's autonomy, so we can assume she only gives a fuck about "girls supporting girls" (whatever that fucking means).
Despite some questionable (and sometimes vindictive) behavior, Taylor as a young woman did not deserve every media lashing that she received. We cannot deny that most headlines and criticisms perpetuated a misogynistic rhetoric which has plagued Swift for a majority of her career. Acknowledging events such as the development of her ED, her sexual assault trial, "Famous" lyric and MV depiction of Taylor, and the explicit Twitter deepfakes, for example, as both disgusting and unfortunate things that happened to a young woman in Hollywood does not negate the fact that Taylor is mostly a performative feminist.
This was over 11 years ago, and it is still the only notable philanthropic contribution Taylor Swift has made.
For a woman of her net worth and stature, and a woman who recognizes the difficulties for women in film and music, you would think that Taylor Swift might establish a scholarship program for women to study the arts or something. Perhaps Swift might even consider becoming a member of organizations that support female artists, or one that supports LGBTQ+ causes (since she is now proudly an ally), yet she remains superficial with her graces. Broader philanthropy, such as donating relief aid to Palestinian women or women impacted by violence and discrimination will probably never receive any financial support from Miss Swift because then she'd be using her money towards philanthropies involving anyone but white entertainers.
She even says herself in Miss Americana, "My entire moral code as a kid and now is a need to be thought of as 'good'." Well, she's certainly thought of as good, though her actions say otherwise. She's more than happy to do a vaguely altruistic song and dance for a clip-worthy interview quote and mass appeasement, then fuck off to one of her mansions on a 20 minute private jet flight, rather than actually contribute to anything pertaining to the causes she has endorsed. Yet, far too many people continue to give a woman such as her their money, time, and energy, and she hoards these resources to herself.
The reason political anthems such as "The Man" and "Only the Young" of the Lover era feel disingenuous and corporate is because, well, it is. Taylor has taken every opportunity to advance her career or public image at the expense of other women. What is truly genuine to Taylor's outlook on other women is vying for male attention, taking down female competition, and vocalizing feminist injustices only if they directly impact her and her money. Some will argue that it's satisfactory for a woman with such a huge platform to even TALK about feminism, but that just isn't enough. It's even less impressive when you candidly look at the scope of her feminist lens: "If I was the man, then I'd be THE MAN", or "I really resent the ‘Be careful, buddy, she’s going to write a song about you’ angle, because it trivialises what I do", and, of course, "We all got crowns". Feminism, but only when it happens to me. It gets worse when you look at Taylor's track record of copying other famous women and removing other female artists as potential threats to her pop prowess.
It's good for PR to align yourself with certain blanket feminist and political beliefs, therefore good for branding, therefore good for ticketing and merchandise sales, therefore good for business. And Taylor Swift is a business.
She's not a feminist. Taylor Swift is a capitalist.
Swift, through her company, TAS Rights Managements, has also trademarked over 200 phrases, including "1989", where she owns the property rights to this calendar year on keychains, phone cases, sunglasses, stationary, bags, beverage ware, clothing, entertainment services, your subconscious, and, of course, Christmas ornaments.
The vapid consumerism in Swiftie culture is, frankly, disgusting. Bravado's sustainability statement is non-existent, the quality control is abysmal, and the materials they use are horrible. The materials, such as acrylic and polyester, are made from petrochemicals. This means they are non-renewable, shed microplastics, and are quite toxic in production. The manufacturing process to make all of those lazy-rushed Eras Tour logo graphic tees is a huge blow to environmental well-being. Apparently, though, Swifties don't give a fuck. They sell out products in seconds and either have to face the manufactured scarcity or buy from a scalper that resells for 200% of the already ridiculous retail price. This doesn't include the environmental impact of vinyl records, CD, and cassette production, of which Taylor produces many variants that sell unsustainable amounts.
If we're talking about women's rights violations, why is no one acknowledging the women that work in the inhumane sweatshop conditions that have to pump out fugly t-shirts and hats? The millions of plastic microfiber dander they are inhaling, or the toxic dyes that touch their bare skin? Are they being compensated fairly for their skilled labour and are they in safe working environments? Do these women have minimal bargaining power, and do they have authority over their worker's rights? Is Taylor Swift female raging at their injustices? Does Taylor Swift ever feels bad that her wealth was built on the backs of women of color, disadvantaged by the demands of the global economy and garment industry? Do you think she ever says a little white feminist prayer for them before she goes to sleep at night?
What's even crazier is not that Taylor herself doesn't care, it's that Swifties don't care. There CANNOT BE ethical billionaires. You only make a billion dollars if you are exploiting other human beings for capital gain. Based on public perception of the possible "Female Rage: The Musical" trademark, it seems like Swifties are already asking for merch with this phrase. "If Taylor made it, I'd buy it." Oh, cool. So not only do you champion Miss Swift's avarice and billionaire status, but you also are unashamed to admit to your blind consumption of her music and merchandise, no matter where they might originate in production or sincerity. Just as Swift takes and takes and takes, Swifties' consumerism of Taylor Swift cannot be quelled.
The tortured artist's most vulnerable and sincere poetry...available now in 21 different versions!
Yet Taylor Swift still has no grounds to be claiming that TTPD best exemplifies female rage and therefore she, in the context of this album, is female rage incarnate. As the daughter of a stock broker and mutual fund marketing executive, Taylor was born into wealth and allowed privileges like trips and subsequent relocation to Nashville all so that she might get a record deal. Her father even invested at least $120,000 into the then-fledgling label, Big Machine Records, which ensured Taylor's place with Borchetta after leaving her dead-end development deal with Sony. The fact that her parents were able to buy her a fucking brand new guitar for Christmas and pay for music lessons says so much about the financial security and safety of her childhood.
Money is privilege and protection, and despite Swift's experiences with misogyny and loser boyfriends, she does not know what female rage is.
Her rage is derived from her frustrations with her obsessive fans pulling the moral superiority card on Taylor in response to her rebound with Matty Healy. That's literally it. She's just pissed that the monster she created is no longer obediant, it's become a feral, sovereign entity that depletes the world of its natural resources and thinks it is more intelligent than it actually is because it's mommy has started to talk to it with big words. Apparently, 'illicit', 'elegy', 'nonchalant', and 'precocious' are considerably big words for the oafish monster, and I find it strange that this level of literacy is present in a group of fans that allegedly have GPAs of 3.5 or higher, but I digress.
Taylor Swift has never been one paycheck away from destitution. Taylor Swift has never experienced racial discrimination. She may have instances of gender discrimination, but she possesses the ideal white, blonde American beauty standard and therefore reaps the benefits of being a conventionally attractive woman. Taylor Swift has sufficient social capital. Taylor Swift is a billionaire woman prolonging her victimhood though she, as a woman, has mostly had control over her image and music (unlike her contemporaries). Taylor Swift is NOT entitled to be championed for her "female rage", nor should she be. Taylor Swift has never even been the struggling artist, for fuck's sake. I don't give a fuck if she's trying to fill the empty lunch tables of her past. Taylor Swift purporting herself, her unpolished album, and her lukewarm feminism as a musical bleeding with female rage is asinine.
Fame is somewhat of a choice. If at any moment Taylor feels that she is misunderstood, misconstrued, or overwhelmed by public opinion, she can LEAVE the public eye - Lord knows she has the retirement fund and residuals to do so. In "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart", the TTPD song about meeting the demands of your career-zenith mega-tour while in the relationship trenches, Taylor ends the song by rambling,
It's funny. Taylor Swift often said that being famous wasn't hard, that she "isn't complaining". I'm sure it is difficult to always have to present in a good mood, else you'll end up misrepresented in the media, and I'm sure it's invasive to virtually have no privacy or semblance of anonymity. Still, Taylor Swift shows up each night of tour and performs. For a majority of her career, she has penned her sad songs while on the road. Most of "Red", her breakup album, was written in the thick of the Speak Now World tour. Now, some Swifties say they almost "feel bad" for attending the Eras Tour with Swift's revelations in this song, that they have had a 'dimmed experience' upon hearing Taylor's misery whilst performing. Despite the fact that Taylor said that "this was the happiest she's ever been" at Gilette Stadium in May, the lyrics "boohoo, woe is me, smile for the cameras and make the fans happy!!!" are jarring for Eras attendees.
While Taylor Swift was making double-digit millions a night in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and feeling miserable, Ana Clara Benevides Machado passed away due to heat exposure. The concert promoters, Time For Fun, are now the subject of a criminal investigation due to their lack of adequate hydration and safety. Taylor Swift cancelled the Sunday show that was to follow and offered VIP tent tickets to Benevides Marchado's family, which was a kind gesture, but perhaps incongruous to the incident of which they were offered as consolation. Everyone grieves differently, of course, but I'm not sure attending the very show at the very same venue that my daughter or sister passed away in two days prior, where the singer CONTINUED the show despite her death, would be healthy for closure.
There was no female rage at the show as Swift never saw Benevides Machado pass out. There was no female rage towards the disregard for fans as humans while Swift elected to proceed with her Brazil tour dates despite the country being in historic heatwaves (at risk of overheatting herself). If Taylor Swift was so shaken by touring with a broken heart or a fan's passing, she wouldn't have added an additional North American leg of Eras just two months after the Matty breakup. She's brokenhearted but willing to mend the cracks with your money and move onward with her worldwide female rage induced pillaging.
No matter what happens, even if you die at a Taylor Swift concert, Taylor collects a big fat check and flies away. She doesn't know you as anything other than a conversion rate or earning potential despite what her nearly 20-year long parasocial relationship with fans might otherwise indicate. She knows that, while some Swifties are without disposable income, they feel obligated to spend on a "48 Hours Only!" exclusive vinyl variant instead of necessities because they are so entrenched in Taylor Swift's intoxicating celebrity, they'll prioritize materialistic fandom before their needs. This is good enough for her because this means she can expand her real estate portfolio and finance her cat's lavish lifestyles. They're worth an estimated $100 million dollars. Her three cats could pool their net worth and solve world hunger.
While you and I might be denied bereavement leave and barely surviving the current political and economic climate, Taylor Swift has to, instead of gets to, perform for stadiums at full attendance for three nights in a row across the globe. You and I might be replaced by AI at our longtime jobs, but Taylor Swift is threatened with losing more and more money each time you listen to a "Stolen Version" of her songs. If we don't buy every variant of all of her albums, then who is going to pay for the fucking cats?
It is tone deaf to spend as she spends and lives as she lives in this economy, but this is her reality. She was able to donate $100,000 to all of her tour truck drivers, and that's wonderful, but it leads me to wonder about the ethos of the 2020s where one woman can hoard such life-changing amounts of money. Remember in 2014 when she gave a fan $90 ($120 in today's money) to get Chipotle because she had no fucking clue how much it cost? This is a 34-year-old woman who is increasingly out of touch with the reality for working class people and women in general. Normal everyday adults must wake up and go to their thankless jobs, and yet Taylor Swift, despite all her riches, incessantly references the lows of her life and career as a public figure and entertainer to farm sympathy and drive sales. And still, the corporate women have latched onto "I cry a lot, but I am so productive! It's an art!" as their cubicle battle cry.
Do you think that, from up in her private jet, Taylor Swift gazes at the world through her poetic, tortured eyes, and thinks, "All the little people, in their cars, walking, going about their lives...all those girls that don't support girls...do they know that I've made an album about female rage?"
TLDR: Taylor Swift is a bad feminist and is delusional to think that the TTPD eras set exemplifies female rage at women's injustice.
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Introduction
Pertaining to Taylor Swift, "Female Rage" has deviated from its intended meaning after Swift debuted a new performance of The Tortured Poets Department during the Eras Tour. Now, according to Swift's use of the phrase, female rage is interpreted as public backlash against Swift's dating choices rather than as a response to the broader injustices against women and women's rights. This post examines Taylor Swift's flawed feminism, philanthropy, branding, and the controversial trademark petition for the phrase "Female Rage: The Musical". Swift's background as an entertainer, indeterminate politics, and alignment with capitalism over feminism pervades her legacy, again threatening her public tolerance as not just an individual but as a brand.Once Upon a Female Rage...
If you were cognizant in the early 2010's, you've heard countless jabs at Taylor Swift in the media. Magazines, radio, or online. Music critics did not take her seriously as a songwriter; parents put a woman on an unrealistic pedestal as the ideal role model for their children; she dated too much and used men as lyrical fodder. No matter the story, it inevitably spread, conjoined with everyone's respective opinions, and you'd be left to wonder, "Why does everyone hate this girl so much?"Taylor's target demographic has always been young or adolescent girls, more so when Swift herself was one. She made music that spoke to the awkward misfit, cultivating a para-social relationship with fans on MySpace, then later twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, where Taylor posted relatable vlogs showcasing the life of a homegrown American girl. Taylor had a delayed public "growing up" and, compared to her female pop contemporaries, Swift never "gratuitously sexualized her image and seems pathologically averse to controversy" (and, apparently, never even had a sip of alcohol until she turned 21). She was more than happy to spin this narrative to allude to an inherent moral superiority above other women in the industry (Better Than Revenge, heard of it?), engaging in the very slut-shaming that she herself endured (the Madonna and Whore archetypes). The victim complex arose with the need to prove Taylor as a different type of pop girl. Based upon her holy and clean image, Swift had been dubbed "a feminist's nightmare", and that "[To Swift] other girls are obstacles; undeserving enemies who steal Taylor’s soulmates with their bewitching good looks and sexual availability." Feminism and Tennessee-Christian country values don't exactly mix, it seems.
Years later, Swift befriended Lena Dunham and thus experienced white feminism osmosis, where Dunham taught Swift that real feminists defend rapists, makes insensitive jokes about rape and abortion, and prioritize all-white casts. Swift then declared herself a feminist in 2014, saying,
"Becoming friends with Lena – without her preaching to me, but just seeing why she believes what she believes, why she says what she says, why she stands for what she stands for – has made me realize that I’ve been taking a feminist stance without actually saying so."I suppose the male-centric songwriting subject that permeates Swift's discography contained covert feminism and that we just didn't see that. Perhaps, the "Bad Blood" song and music video were written only in jest and not about poor Katy Perry, for Swift, as a feminist, would "never make it a girl fight" or tear other women down (though all Katy did was date your terrible ex-boyfriend and allegedly steal three backup dancers from your tour). In 2013, Swift said, in response to Tina Fey and Amy Poehler's joke towards her serial dating, "There is a special place in hell for women who don't help other women."
There was that time in 2015 Taylor said that Nicki Minaj was "invited to any stage [she is] on" (as if Taylor expects to have access to every stage, award, and platform that Nicki might not otherwise have as a black female artist...yikes!) in response to Nicki's criticism of the white + thin VMA nominations. Later, Nicki responded with confusion, as Swift continued, "It’s unlike you to pit women against each other. Maybe one of the men took your slot..". Of course, this 'beef' was 'squashed' when Nicki performed with Taylor at the VMAs, with Nicki quite literally only having 38 seconds of stage time without Taylor. Maybe all that parading around with a legion of famous white women - similar to the way Taylor might've done with her numerous 1989-era handbags - was in fact a stance against gender inequality, and that this display of "girl power" should be enough to constitute Swift as a feminist icon.
Even while Swift says that Dunham informed her feminist outlook, she dances around the exact contents of those beliefs: "what she believes, what she says, what she stands for" is not exactly insightful towards what beliefs Swift might have inherited. Taylor never broaches women's rights topics such femicide, FGM, forced pregnancy & marriage, sex trafficking, women in slavery, women's financial and political oppression, women's educational rights, women's health, or women's autonomy, so we can assume she only gives a fuck about "girls supporting girls" (whatever that fucking means).
Despite some questionable (and sometimes vindictive) behavior, Taylor as a young woman did not deserve every media lashing that she received. We cannot deny that most headlines and criticisms perpetuated a misogynistic rhetoric which has plagued Swift for a majority of her career. Acknowledging events such as the development of her ED, her sexual assault trial, "Famous" lyric and MV depiction of Taylor, and the explicit Twitter deepfakes, for example, as both disgusting and unfortunate things that happened to a young woman in Hollywood does not negate the fact that Taylor is mostly a performative feminist.
Get Your Fucking Ass Up and Be a Philanthropist, It Seems Like Nobody Wants to Be a Philanthropist These Days
In 2013, Taylor Swift cut the ribbon at the grand opening of the Taylor Swift Education Center at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee. The donation amount - $4 million - was the largest individual artist gift ever donated to the Country Music Hall of Fame, which is, of course, mentioned on Swift's website. The two-story facility features three classrooms, an instrument room, and an interactive children's exhibit gallery. Swift also performed at "All for the Hall" charity shows and has donated numerous artifacts from her career (such as notable guitars, tour costumes, etc) to the museum.This was over 11 years ago, and it is still the only notable philanthropic contribution Taylor Swift has made.
For a woman of her net worth and stature, and a woman who recognizes the difficulties for women in film and music, you would think that Taylor Swift might establish a scholarship program for women to study the arts or something. Perhaps Swift might even consider becoming a member of organizations that support female artists, or one that supports LGBTQ+ causes (since she is now proudly an ally), yet she remains superficial with her graces. Broader philanthropy, such as donating relief aid to Palestinian women or women impacted by violence and discrimination will probably never receive any financial support from Miss Swift because then she'd be using her money towards philanthropies involving anyone but white entertainers.
She even says herself in Miss Americana, "My entire moral code as a kid and now is a need to be thought of as 'good'." Well, she's certainly thought of as good, though her actions say otherwise. She's more than happy to do a vaguely altruistic song and dance for a clip-worthy interview quote and mass appeasement, then fuck off to one of her mansions on a 20 minute private jet flight, rather than actually contribute to anything pertaining to the causes she has endorsed. Yet, far too many people continue to give a woman such as her their money, time, and energy, and she hoards these resources to herself.
I Like Some of the Taylor's Songs, But What the Fuck Does She Know About Feminism?
Swift continued with her self-proclaimed feminist campaign, positioning herself as a political activist and LGBTQ+ ally in the Miss Americana documentary. The primary focus of the documentary consists of the sexual assault trial, Andrea Swift's cancer diagnosis, Taylor's ED and body dysmorphia, media scrutiny, and, largely, finally speaking up about her politics publicly, mostly her opposition to the 2018 Tennessee Republican senate candidate, Marsha Blackburn, and Blackburn's beliefs. Swift says, following a scene discussing her experience during the trial,"I just couldn't really stop thinking about it. And I just thought to myself, next time there is any opportunity to change anything, you had better know what you stand for and what you want to say."We must ask ourselves, though: when has Swift ever spoken up to change anything? Okay, pulling her entire catalogue from Spotify because they didn't pay their artists enough and similarly pulling her catalogue from Apple Music are changes that she leveraged due to her revenue potential and power, but they are not pertinent to the average woman's rights. Moreover, these are issues that directly impacted Taylor's income, which was enough reason for her to protest in the first place. Swift has sold the most units for a female artist in first week sales, is the first female artist with 100k monthly Spotify listeners, is the first female artist to win the Album of the Year Grammy 4 times, and is the first female artist to do X, Y, and Z, all while being inoffensive and family-friendly to boot. The actual Taylor Swift seems unwilling to compromise the brand of Taylor Swift by contributing in meaningful ways to feminist causes, especially if it is for women outside of America and Hollywood.
The reason political anthems such as "The Man" and "Only the Young" of the Lover era feel disingenuous and corporate is because, well, it is. Taylor has taken every opportunity to advance her career or public image at the expense of other women. What is truly genuine to Taylor's outlook on other women is vying for male attention, taking down female competition, and vocalizing feminist injustices only if they directly impact her and her money. Some will argue that it's satisfactory for a woman with such a huge platform to even TALK about feminism, but that just isn't enough. It's even less impressive when you candidly look at the scope of her feminist lens: "If I was the man, then I'd be THE MAN", or "I really resent the ‘Be careful, buddy, she’s going to write a song about you’ angle, because it trivialises what I do", and, of course, "We all got crowns". Feminism, but only when it happens to me. It gets worse when you look at Taylor's track record of copying other famous women and removing other female artists as potential threats to her pop prowess.
It's good for PR to align yourself with certain blanket feminist and political beliefs, therefore good for branding, therefore good for ticketing and merchandise sales, therefore good for business. And Taylor Swift is a business.
She's not a feminist. Taylor Swift is a capitalist.
I Can't Pay Those Sweatshop Workers a Livable Wage or Benefits! How Else Would I Make My Billions?
Recently, Taylor's team filed to trademark the phrase "Female Rage: The Musical" after Taylor said during Paris N1 of the Eras Tour,"So you were the first ones to see The Tortured Poets at the Eras Tour...or as I like to call it, 'Female Rage: The Musical'."This trademark petition was filed last week on Saturday, and news comes about just as numerous unofficial fan-made merch designs have cropped up with this phrase plastered on Fruit of the Loom basics. I'm of the opinion Swift's team motioned for a trademark so that they can send out cease & desists to all those that make knockoff merch, which disrupts potential sales for Bravado, UMG's choice merchandising company; however, since it was filed earlier, perhaps Swift has bigger plans with the bizarre use of the gendered phrase. One Swiftie referred to the phrase "female rage" as "a funny Eras Tour joke". Could it be a possible fourth version of the Eras Tour Movie? Whatever the reason, the motion to capitalize off of such a concept is disgusting, but not unsurprising, for a woman that profits on her vain feminism.
Swift, through her company, TAS Rights Managements, has also trademarked over 200 phrases, including "1989", where she owns the property rights to this calendar year on keychains, phone cases, sunglasses, stationary, bags, beverage ware, clothing, entertainment services, your subconscious, and, of course, Christmas ornaments.
The vapid consumerism in Swiftie culture is, frankly, disgusting. Bravado's sustainability statement is non-existent, the quality control is abysmal, and the materials they use are horrible. The materials, such as acrylic and polyester, are made from petrochemicals. This means they are non-renewable, shed microplastics, and are quite toxic in production. The manufacturing process to make all of those lazy-rushed Eras Tour logo graphic tees is a huge blow to environmental well-being. Apparently, though, Swifties don't give a fuck. They sell out products in seconds and either have to face the manufactured scarcity or buy from a scalper that resells for 200% of the already ridiculous retail price. This doesn't include the environmental impact of vinyl records, CD, and cassette production, of which Taylor produces many variants that sell unsustainable amounts.
If we're talking about women's rights violations, why is no one acknowledging the women that work in the inhumane sweatshop conditions that have to pump out fugly t-shirts and hats? The millions of plastic microfiber dander they are inhaling, or the toxic dyes that touch their bare skin? Are they being compensated fairly for their skilled labour and are they in safe working environments? Do these women have minimal bargaining power, and do they have authority over their worker's rights? Is Taylor Swift female raging at their injustices? Does Taylor Swift ever feels bad that her wealth was built on the backs of women of color, disadvantaged by the demands of the global economy and garment industry? Do you think she ever says a little white feminist prayer for them before she goes to sleep at night?
What's even crazier is not that Taylor herself doesn't care, it's that Swifties don't care. There CANNOT BE ethical billionaires. You only make a billion dollars if you are exploiting other human beings for capital gain. Based on public perception of the possible "Female Rage: The Musical" trademark, it seems like Swifties are already asking for merch with this phrase. "If Taylor made it, I'd buy it." Oh, cool. So not only do you champion Miss Swift's avarice and billionaire status, but you also are unashamed to admit to your blind consumption of her music and merchandise, no matter where they might originate in production or sincerity. Just as Swift takes and takes and takes, Swifties' consumerism of Taylor Swift cannot be quelled.
The tortured artist's most vulnerable and sincere poetry...available now in 21 different versions!
I Am Tortured Poet, Hear Me Whinge
Look - even if Taylor's intention is to characterize TTPD as more "tortured" and "angry", the main thread of the album is "I was ghosted by my decade-long situationship with a controversial indie boy and my fucking stupid fans wrote a 'Speak Up Now' open letter prompting me to drop him" anger, which is adequately expressed in the lyrics and performances. The extent of Taylor's "female rage" on TTPD is on tracks such as "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?", which contends with relentless media scrutiny; "But Daddy I Love Him", where Swift firmly states she'll date whoever she likes no matter how "Sarahs and Hannahs" may react; and "The Albatross", a track mythologizing her reputation and the consequences of dating her. Of course, these coincide with deep psychological wounds that formed during Swift's early years in the media, and so, from her feminist perspective, these subjects tackle the misogyny and double standards that she faced.Yet Taylor Swift still has no grounds to be claiming that TTPD best exemplifies female rage and therefore she, in the context of this album, is female rage incarnate. As the daughter of a stock broker and mutual fund marketing executive, Taylor was born into wealth and allowed privileges like trips and subsequent relocation to Nashville all so that she might get a record deal. Her father even invested at least $120,000 into the then-fledgling label, Big Machine Records, which ensured Taylor's place with Borchetta after leaving her dead-end development deal with Sony. The fact that her parents were able to buy her a fucking brand new guitar for Christmas and pay for music lessons says so much about the financial security and safety of her childhood.
Money is privilege and protection, and despite Swift's experiences with misogyny and loser boyfriends, she does not know what female rage is.
Her rage is derived from her frustrations with her obsessive fans pulling the moral superiority card on Taylor in response to her rebound with Matty Healy. That's literally it. She's just pissed that the monster she created is no longer obediant, it's become a feral, sovereign entity that depletes the world of its natural resources and thinks it is more intelligent than it actually is because it's mommy has started to talk to it with big words. Apparently, 'illicit', 'elegy', 'nonchalant', and 'precocious' are considerably big words for the oafish monster, and I find it strange that this level of literacy is present in a group of fans that allegedly have GPAs of 3.5 or higher, but I digress.
Taylor Swift has never been one paycheck away from destitution. Taylor Swift has never experienced racial discrimination. She may have instances of gender discrimination, but she possesses the ideal white, blonde American beauty standard and therefore reaps the benefits of being a conventionally attractive woman. Taylor Swift has sufficient social capital. Taylor Swift is a billionaire woman prolonging her victimhood though she, as a woman, has mostly had control over her image and music (unlike her contemporaries). Taylor Swift is NOT entitled to be championed for her "female rage", nor should she be. Taylor Swift has never even been the struggling artist, for fuck's sake. I don't give a fuck if she's trying to fill the empty lunch tables of her past. Taylor Swift purporting herself, her unpolished album, and her lukewarm feminism as a musical bleeding with female rage is asinine.
Sigh Try and Come For My Job, Poors
Out there in the world right now is a 23-year-old woman, a recent college grad, who works as a barista. She has to wake up and get ready to go into a minimum wage job because she cannot get a job in her field. She doesn't have healthcare benefits or sick time, so she has to go into work no matter how she's feeling. All day long she is berated by vicious customers and creepy men, and, exhausted from being on her feet, she knows she has to go home to her shitty roommate that never does the dishes and her roommate's shitty dog. To comfort herself, she considers getting a treat, but thinks against it when she remembers that matcha lattes cost $15 and they taste like milky dirt. She knows that she needs to buy groceries this week, and so the woman resolves to go home, but notices that her gas tank is low. She goes to put gas in the car, but the pump stops at $27.86 because that's all that she has in her checking account. The woman, bereft and reeling, sinks into the driver's seat. "Well," she thinks, her head in her hands, "at least I don't have Taylor Swift's job. I just couldn't imagine."Fame is somewhat of a choice. If at any moment Taylor feels that she is misunderstood, misconstrued, or overwhelmed by public opinion, she can LEAVE the public eye - Lord knows she has the retirement fund and residuals to do so. In "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart", the TTPD song about meeting the demands of your career-zenith mega-tour while in the relationship trenches, Taylor ends the song by rambling,
"You know you're good when you can even do it with a broken heart...you know you're good...and I'm good, cause I'm miserable, and no one even knows!...try and come for my job."Yeah, obviously we wouldn't know, you recently passed the billionaire threshold and are the most famous and in-demand performer in the world right now. Taylor Swift makes an estimated $10 to $13 million dollars A NIGHT on the Eras Tour. Furthermore, the Eras Tour movie grossed $261.6 million globally, (which, as the producer, Taylor takes home 57% of the ticket sales) not counting the streaming revenue from Amazon Prime Video and the estimated $75 million deal that Disney paid to have it on Disney+. We're not even considering the income from cheap plastic popcorn buckets and drink cups plastered with colored squares in her Era-specific likeness.
It's funny. Taylor Swift often said that being famous wasn't hard, that she "isn't complaining". I'm sure it is difficult to always have to present in a good mood, else you'll end up misrepresented in the media, and I'm sure it's invasive to virtually have no privacy or semblance of anonymity. Still, Taylor Swift shows up each night of tour and performs. For a majority of her career, she has penned her sad songs while on the road. Most of "Red", her breakup album, was written in the thick of the Speak Now World tour. Now, some Swifties say they almost "feel bad" for attending the Eras Tour with Swift's revelations in this song, that they have had a 'dimmed experience' upon hearing Taylor's misery whilst performing. Despite the fact that Taylor said that "this was the happiest she's ever been" at Gilette Stadium in May, the lyrics "boohoo, woe is me, smile for the cameras and make the fans happy!!!" are jarring for Eras attendees.
While Taylor Swift was making double-digit millions a night in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and feeling miserable, Ana Clara Benevides Machado passed away due to heat exposure. The concert promoters, Time For Fun, are now the subject of a criminal investigation due to their lack of adequate hydration and safety. Taylor Swift cancelled the Sunday show that was to follow and offered VIP tent tickets to Benevides Marchado's family, which was a kind gesture, but perhaps incongruous to the incident of which they were offered as consolation. Everyone grieves differently, of course, but I'm not sure attending the very show at the very same venue that my daughter or sister passed away in two days prior, where the singer CONTINUED the show despite her death, would be healthy for closure.
There was no female rage at the show as Swift never saw Benevides Machado pass out. There was no female rage towards the disregard for fans as humans while Swift elected to proceed with her Brazil tour dates despite the country being in historic heatwaves (at risk of overheatting herself). If Taylor Swift was so shaken by touring with a broken heart or a fan's passing, she wouldn't have added an additional North American leg of Eras just two months after the Matty breakup. She's brokenhearted but willing to mend the cracks with your money and move onward with her worldwide female rage induced pillaging.
No matter what happens, even if you die at a Taylor Swift concert, Taylor collects a big fat check and flies away. She doesn't know you as anything other than a conversion rate or earning potential despite what her nearly 20-year long parasocial relationship with fans might otherwise indicate. She knows that, while some Swifties are without disposable income, they feel obligated to spend on a "48 Hours Only!" exclusive vinyl variant instead of necessities because they are so entrenched in Taylor Swift's intoxicating celebrity, they'll prioritize materialistic fandom before their needs. This is good enough for her because this means she can expand her real estate portfolio and finance her cat's lavish lifestyles. They're worth an estimated $100 million dollars. Her three cats could pool their net worth and solve world hunger.
While you and I might be denied bereavement leave and barely surviving the current political and economic climate, Taylor Swift has to, instead of gets to, perform for stadiums at full attendance for three nights in a row across the globe. You and I might be replaced by AI at our longtime jobs, but Taylor Swift is threatened with losing more and more money each time you listen to a "Stolen Version" of her songs. If we don't buy every variant of all of her albums, then who is going to pay for the fucking cats?
It is tone deaf to spend as she spends and lives as she lives in this economy, but this is her reality. She was able to donate $100,000 to all of her tour truck drivers, and that's wonderful, but it leads me to wonder about the ethos of the 2020s where one woman can hoard such life-changing amounts of money. Remember in 2014 when she gave a fan $90 ($120 in today's money) to get Chipotle because she had no fucking clue how much it cost? This is a 34-year-old woman who is increasingly out of touch with the reality for working class people and women in general. Normal everyday adults must wake up and go to their thankless jobs, and yet Taylor Swift, despite all her riches, incessantly references the lows of her life and career as a public figure and entertainer to farm sympathy and drive sales. And still, the corporate women have latched onto "I cry a lot, but I am so productive! It's an art!" as their cubicle battle cry.
Do you think that, from up in her private jet, Taylor Swift gazes at the world through her poetic, tortured eyes, and thinks, "All the little people, in their cars, walking, going about their lives...all those girls that don't support girls...do they know that I've made an album about female rage?"
Conclusion/TLDR
Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your critical insights towards this entire ordeal: TTPD, the trademark, the implications of it all.TLDR: Taylor Swift is a bad feminist and is delusional to think that the TTPD eras set exemplifies female rage at women's injustice.
2024.05.14 20:17 BelAir57V8 A friend of mine had her car broken into, and her backpack and MacBook Air were stolen. The MacBook has alien stickers on it. If anyone happens to see it anywhere for sale, please let me know. Thank you.
My friend lives in Clairemont
submitted by BelAir57V8 to sandiego [link] [comments]
2024.05.14 20:14 horroradept666 We Are Horror Records Fest, ft. Zombina, Siblings Of Samhain, Toria and The Terror, and das GHOUL
 | Step right up, horror aficionados! submitted by horroradept666 to horrorpunk [link] [comments] We Are Horror Records is celebrating two years of spine-chilling success, and we're summoning all creatures of the night to join us for a monstrously good time! Leading the night of terror are none other than friends of the label, the macabre maestros themselves, Zombina and the Skeletones! But wait, the horror doesn't stop there! We're bringing back the legendary UK horrorpunk heroes, Siblings Of Samhain, straight from the depths of darkness to unleash their eerie melodies upon the stage once again! Prepare to be mesmerized by Toria and The Terror, the queer horrorpunk sensation hailing from the foggy streets of Liverpool! And let's not forget about the latest label signees Das GHOUL, the masters of gothic-tinged horror-stained punk'n'roll terrorpop! Join us at the infamous Redrum in Stafford on Friday, October 11th for a night of thrills, chills, and rock 'n' roll madness that you'll never forget! Doors open at 7 pm, so grab your tickets before they vanish into thin air! Tickets are on sale Friday, May 17th via Eventbright. |
2024.05.14 20:00 UbiquitousUlyses Early lease termination, and what to get?
Hello!!
In March of 2023 I profited $4,200 in positive equity by selling my 2020 Accord, and used it as a down payment to get into a 2023 Audi A4 45 Premium Plus S-Line lease at $600/mo.
I moved cities and sales at my new job (salary+commission) are slow, so I went from 90-100k/year down to about 55-65k/year. Due to costs of living, drop in my salary, I want to rid myself of the car early but reckon I'm underwater ~$4k.
Thinking of replacing with a used car ~$17-25k. I need it to be under 200" long for parking, under 100k miles, and as cushy as possible. I don't mind tinkering on cars (I could use a hobby) and public transport is good here, so as long as I don't have a lemon I'll be fine.
I'm thinking of
L322, L405, L494, L319, or L462 Land Rovers with the timing chain service already completed - I can do air spring replacement myself.
Lincoln MKZ or Nautilus
2016 Cayenne on air springs
W222 (206" I know) or W213 with Airmatic
Any other ideas or suggestions? I know these aren't the most reliable but again I could always use public transit and could deal with small issues as a hobby
submitted by UbiquitousUlyses to whatcarshouldIbuy [link] [comments]
In March of 2023 I profited $4,200 in positive equity by selling my 2020 Accord, and used it as a down payment to get into a 2023 Audi A4 45 Premium Plus S-Line lease at $600/mo.
I moved cities and sales at my new job (salary+commission) are slow, so I went from 90-100k/year down to about 55-65k/year. Due to costs of living, drop in my salary, I want to rid myself of the car early but reckon I'm underwater ~$4k.
Thinking of replacing with a used car ~$17-25k. I need it to be under 200" long for parking, under 100k miles, and as cushy as possible. I don't mind tinkering on cars (I could use a hobby) and public transport is good here, so as long as I don't have a lemon I'll be fine.
I'm thinking of
L322, L405, L494, L319, or L462 Land Rovers with the timing chain service already completed - I can do air spring replacement myself.
Lincoln MKZ or Nautilus
2016 Cayenne on air springs
W222 (206" I know) or W213 with Airmatic
Any other ideas or suggestions? I know these aren't the most reliable but again I could always use public transit and could deal with small issues as a hobby
2024.05.14 19:36 rickylee0759 [USA-CA] [H] 2020 M1 Macbook Air, 8GB & 512GB [W] Paypal or Local Cash
Repairs: None
Timestamp & Pictures: https://imgur.com/a/5CuMXuf
Up for sale is a 2020 M1 Macbook Air, 8GB & 512GB variant. 86% battery health with minor cosmetic damages. $550 shipped!
submitted by rickylee0759 to appleswap [link] [comments]
Timestamp & Pictures: https://imgur.com/a/5CuMXuf
Up for sale is a 2020 M1 Macbook Air, 8GB & 512GB variant. 86% battery health with minor cosmetic damages. $550 shipped!
2024.05.14 19:31 jravitz [WTS] 280+ Bottles - USA SELLER - Niche, Designer, Hard to Find, Discontinued and Vintage (Bottle)
Post here and/or PM me with any questions. Shipping is $5. International is available, please discuss. Free samples with every purchase! Payment is by Venmo, CashApp or Zelle, PayPal must inquire.
Only swapping for 200mL Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait and Louis Vuitton Symphony at this time.
All of my contact info as well as all of my bottles for sale, are available in my spreadsheet which you should bookmark and look at for a more updated inventory
Spreadsheet
submitted by jravitz to fragranceswap [link] [comments]
Only swapping for 200mL Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait and Louis Vuitton Symphony at this time.
All of my contact info as well as all of my bottles for sale, are available in my spreadsheet which you should bookmark and look at for a more updated inventory
Spreadsheet
| HOUSE | FRAGRANCE | SIZE | REMAINING | Notes/Condition | Price | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amouage | Amber Sogara | 12mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $335 | Niche |
| 2 | Amouage | Incense Rori Attar | 12mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $299 | Niche |
| 3 | Amouage | Orris Wakan Attar | 12mL | 99% Full | Full Presentation | $299 | Niche |
| 4 | Amouage | Rose Aqor Attar | 12mL | 99% Full | Full Presentation | $299 | Niche |
| 5 | Amouage | Saffron Hamra Attar | 12mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $299 | Niche |
| 6 | Andy Tauer | Cologne du Maghreb | 50mL | 99% Full | First Release, Rectangular Clear Bottle; With box | $95 | Niche |
| 7 | Bond No. 9 | Central Park West | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 8 | Bond No. 9 | Dubai Jade | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $200 | Niche |
| 9 | Bond No. 9 | Hamptons | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 10 | Bond No. 9 | Madison Square Park | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 11 | Bond No. 9 | NOMAD | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $169 | Niche |
| 12 | Bond No. 9 | Riverside Drive | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 13 | Bond No. 9 | So New York | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 14 | Bond No. 9 | Sutton Place | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 15 | Bond No. 9 | Wall Street | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $149 | Niche |
| 16 | By Kilian | Bamboo Harmony | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $199 | Niche |
| 17 | By Kilian | Black Phantom | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $199 | Niche |
| 18 | By Kilian | Can't Stop Loving You | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $185 | Niche |
| 19 | By Kilian | Forbidden Games | 50mL | 98% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $125 | Niche |
| 20 | By Kilian | Gold Knight | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $199 | Niche |
| 21 | By Kilian | Gold Knight | 50mL | 98% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $145 | Niche |
| 22 | By Kilian | Good Girl Gone Bad | 250mL | 99% Full | Decanter; No Box | $650 | Niche |
| 23 | By Kilian | Good Girl Gone Bad | 50mL | 98% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $135 | Niche |
| 24 | By Kilian | Good Girl Gone Bad Eau Fraiche | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $180 | Niche |
| 25 | By Kilian | Intoxicated | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $199 | Niche |
| 26 | By Kilian | L'Heure Verte | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $135 | Niche |
| 27 | By Kilian | Moonlight In Heaven | 100mL | 99% Full | Tester Refill (No Spray, No Box) | $199 | Niche |
| 28 | By Kilian | Roses on Ice | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $135 | Niche |
| 29 | Byredo | Eyes Closed | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $135 | Niche |
| 30 | Byredo | Infloresence | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $135 | Niche |
| 31 | Byredo | Lil Fleur | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $135 | Niche |
| 32 | Byredo | Sunday Cologne | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $135 | Niche |
| 33 | Chanel / Chanel Exclusif | Beige Parfum | 15mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $180 | Niche |
| 34 | Chanel / Chanel Exclusif | Misia EdT | 200mL | 90% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $325 | Niche |
| 35 | Chanel / Chanel Exclusif | No. 22 EdT | 200mL | 95% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $325 | Niche |
| 36 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | 7 Mini Set as Pictured | 7x 5mL | 100% Full | 7 Official Minis from 2010-2011... Mitzah, Milly-A-La-Foret, Granville, Cologne Royale, Eau Noire, New Look 1947 | $180 | Niche |
| 37 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Bois D'Argent | 5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Batch Code 0V01 (2010 Production Date) - Price includes shipping | $35 | Niche |
| 38 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Cologne Royale | 5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Batch Code 1X01 (2011 Production Date) - Price includes shipping | $30 | Niche |
| 39 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Diorissima | 7.5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini; No Cannister - Price includes shipping | $30 | Niche |
| 40 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Eau Noire | 5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Batch Code 1R01 (2011 Production Date) - Price includes shipping | $35 | Niche |
| 41 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Eden Roc | 7.5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Price includes shipping | $30 | Niche |
| 42 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Granville | 5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Batch Code 0V01 (2010 Production Date) - Price includes shipping | $35 | Niche |
| 43 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | Milly-La-Foret | 5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Batch Code 0W01 (2010 Production Date) - Price includes shipping | $30 | Niche |
| 44 | Christian Dior / Dior Privee | New Look 1947 | 5mL | 100% Full | Official Mini - Batch Code 1R01 (2011 Production Date) - Price includes shipping | $30 | Niche |
| 45 | Clive Christian | C for Men | 50mL | 95% Full | Tester (No Box) | $169 | Niche |
| 46 | Clive Christian | I Pour Femme (Woody Floral with Vintage Rose) | 50mL | 99% Full | Tester (No Box) | $169 | Niche |
| 47 | Clive Christian | Rock Rose | 50mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $229 | Niche |
| 48 | Clive Christian | X Pour Femme | 50mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $169 | Niche |
| 49 | Creed | Aventus - 19P21 (Decant) | 50mL | 100% Full | Magnetic Cap Decant | $169 | Niche |
| 50 | Creed | Aventus - F1396 | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $209 | Niche |
| 51 | Creed | Aventus for Her - F Batch | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $175 | Niche |
| 52 | Creed | Bois du Portugal | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $185 | Niche |
| 53 | Creed | Carmina - F1449 | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Cap or Box) | $199 | Niche |
| 54 | Creed | Erolfa | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap | $185 | Niche |
| 55 | Creed | Green Irish Tweed | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $195 | Niche |
| 56 | Creed | Himalaya - F Batch | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $185 | Niche |
| 57 | Creed | Jardin D'Amalfi | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box, No Cap) | $199 | Niche |
| 58 | Creed | Millesime Imperial | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $185 | Niche |
| 59 | Creed | Original Santal | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $185 | Niche |
| 60 | Creed | Original Vetiver | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $185 | Niche |
| 61 | Creed | Queen of Silk | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester with Metal Cap | $275 | Niche |
| 62 | Creed | Refillable Atomizer (5mL Leather Wrapped) Blue | 5mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $85 | Niche |
| 63 | Creed | Refillable Atomizer (5mL Leather Wrapped) Grey | 5mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $85 | Niche |
| 64 | Creed | Royal Oud - F Batch | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $260 | Niche |
| 65 | Creed | Royal Water - F238 | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $180 | Niche |
| 66 | Creed | Silver Mountain Water - 21V01A | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $180 | Niche |
| 67 | Creed | Spice and Wood | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $219 | Niche |
| 68 | Creed | Viking - F BATCH | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $190 | Niche |
| 69 | Creed | Viking Cologne | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap | $185 | Niche |
| 70 | Creed | Virgin Island Water | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Plastic Cap (No Box) | $195 | Niche |
| 71 | Creed | White Amber - 17R01 | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $155 | Niche |
| 72 | Diptyque | Eau de Papier EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap | $100 | Niche |
| 73 | Diptyque | Ombre Dans L'eau EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap | $100 | Niche |
| 74 | Diptyque | Oyedo EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $100 | Niche |
| 75 | Diptyque | Philosykos EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $100 | Niche |
| 76 | Fragrance Du Bois | Brume du Matin | 100mL | 100% Full | New, No Box | $180 | Niche |
| 77 | Fragrance Du Bois | Cannabis Blue | 100mL | 100% Full | New, No Box | $180 | Niche |
| 78 | Fragrance Du Bois | Cannabis Intense | 100mL | 100% Full | New, No Box | $180 | Niche |
| 79 | Fragrance Du Bois | HERITAGE | 100mL | 100% Full | New, No Box | $330 | Niche |
| 80 | Fragrance du Bois | Lovers | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $325 | Niche |
| 81 | Fragrance Du Bois | New York Fifth Avenue | 100mL | 100% Full | New, No Box | $180 | Niche |
| 82 | Fragrance Du Bois | SAHRAA | 100mL | 99% Full | Full presentation with Box | $399 | Niche |
| 83 | Fragrance Du Bois | Siberian Rose | 100mL | 100% Full | New, No Box | $180 | Niche |
| 84 | Frederic Malle | Cologne Indellible | 100mL | 85% Full | Full presentation with Box | $175 | Niche |
| 85 | Frederic Malle | Eau de Magnolia | 10mL | 100% Full | Official Travel Spray | $55 | Niche |
| 86 | Frederic Malle | Monsieur | 10mL | 95% Full | Official Travel Spray | $55 | Niche |
| 87 | Frederic Malle | Promise | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New (Not Sealed) | $315 | Niche |
| 88 | Gallagher | Bergamot Silk | 100mL | 99% Full | No Box | $79 | Niche |
| 89 | Giorgio Armani / Armani Prive | Pierre de Lune | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $155 | Niche |
| 90 | Giorgio Armani / Armani Prive | Rose Alexandrie | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $155 | Niche |
| 91 | Guerlain | Angelique Noire | 30mL | 100% Full | Mini Bee Bottle Decant | $215 | Niche |
| 92 | Guerlain | Angelique Noire | 10mL | 100% Full | Tall Glass Decant | $55 | Niche |
| 93 | Guerlain | French Kiss | 75mL | 98% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $450 | Niche |
| 94 | Guerlain | Frenchy Lavende | 200mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $399 | Niche |
| 95 | Guerlain | Herbes Troublantes | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $339 | Niche |
| 96 | Guerlain | Jasmin Bonheur | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $369 | Niche |
| 97 | Guerlain | Neroli Outrenoir | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $339 | Niche |
| 98 | Guerlain | Spiriteuse Double Vanille | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap | $399 | Niche |
| 99 | Guerlain | Tobacco Honey | 200mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $399 | Niche |
| 100 | Hermes / Hermessence | Agar Ebene | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $150 | Niche |
| 101 | Hermes / Hermessence | Ambre Narguile | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $175 | Niche |
| 102 | Hermes / Hermessence | Cedre Sambac | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $165 | Niche |
| 103 | Hermes / Hermessence | Epice Marine | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $170 | Niche |
| 104 | Hermes / Hermessence | Myrrhe Eglantine | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $185 | Niche |
| 105 | Hermes / Hermessence | Poivre Samarcade | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $170 | Niche |
| 106 | Hermes / Hermessence | Santal Massoia | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $170 | Niche |
| 107 | Hermes / Hermessence | Vetiver Tonka | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $175 | Niche |
| 108 | House of Sillage | Nouez Moi | 75mL | 99% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $120 | Niche |
| 109 | I Profumi di Firenze | Caterina De Medici | 50mL | 99% Full | No Box | $35 | Niche |
| 110 | Initio | High Frequency | 90mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $180 | Niche |
| 111 | Initio | Oud for Happiness | 90mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $189 | Niche |
| 112 | Jo Malone | English Pear & Freesia | 30mL | 100% Full | No Box | $50 | Niche |
| 113 | Le Labo | Bigarade 18 - Hong Kong Exclusive | 50mL | 100% Full | Full Bottle, Retail Label | $299 | Niche |
| 114 | Le Labo | Mousse de Chene 30 - Amsterdam City Exclusive | 50mL | 99% Full | Sprayed Once to Test / Brand New; No Box | $259 | Niche |
| 115 | Le Labo | Oud 27 | 50mL | 99% Full | Full presentation with Box | $169 | Niche |
| 116 | Le Labo | Santal 33 | 50mL | 100% Full | Full Bottle, Retail Label | $135 | Niche |
| 117 | Liquides Imaginaires | Bloody Wood | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box, No Cap | $85 | Niche |
| 118 | Liquides Imaginaires | Desert Sauve | 100mL | 99% Full | Tester; No Box, No Cap | $85 | Niche |
| 119 | Liquides Imaginaires | Fleur de Sable | 100mL | 99% Full | Tester; No Box, No Cap | $85 | Niche |
| 120 | Liquides Imaginaires | Fleuve Tendre | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box, No Cap | $85 | Niche |
| 121 | Liquides Imaginaires | Sancti | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box, No Cap | $85 | Niche |
| 122 | Loewe | 7 EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $90 | Niche |
| 123 | Loewe | Aire Anthesis | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $100 | Niche |
| 124 | Loewe | Esencia EdP | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $120 | Niche |
| 125 | Loewe | Esencia Elixir | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $200 | Niche |
| 126 | Loewe | Man 001 EdP | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $120 | Niche |
| 127 | Louis Vuitton | Contre Moi | 100mL | 99% Full | Tester (Bottle may show some damage, Cap has no paint/is peeling) | $385 | Niche |
| 128 | Louis Vuitton | Sun Song | 100mL | 98% Full | Tester (Bottle is scratched, may have an engraving, and Cap has no paint/is peeling) | $425 | Niche |
| 129 | Louis Vuitton | Sun Song | 200mL | 98% Full | Dummy Bottle, filled with real juice. I don't think it's refillable. | $750 | Niche |
| 130 | Maison Crivelli | Bois Datchai | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $169 | Niche |
| 131 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | 724 | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $355 | Niche |
| 132 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | 724 | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $165 | Niche |
| 133 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | A la Rose | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $315 | Niche |
| 134 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Amyris Femme EdP | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $150 | Niche |
| 135 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Amyris Femme Extrait | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $160 | Niche |
| 136 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Amyris Homme EdT | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $160 | Niche |
| 137 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Celestia | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $135 | Niche |
| 138 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Celestia Cologne Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $145 | Niche |
| 139 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Celestia Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $160 | Niche |
| 140 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Media Cologne Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $150 | Niche |
| 141 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Universalis | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $135 | Niche |
| 142 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Universalis Cologne Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $125 | Niche |
| 143 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Universalis Cologne Forte | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $225 | Niche |
| 144 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Universalis Cologne Forte | 35mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $90 | Niche |
| 145 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Universalis Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $160 | Niche |
| 146 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Vitae | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $215 | Niche |
| 147 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Vitae | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $135 | Niche |
| 148 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Vitae Cologne Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $125 | Niche |
| 149 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Aqua Vitae Forte | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $160 | Niche |
| 150 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Baccarat Rouge 540 EdP | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $209 | Niche |
| 151 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $300 | Niche |
| 152 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Feminine Pluriel | 200mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $335 | Niche |
| 153 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Feminine Pluriel Special Edition Extrait | 70mL | 100% Full | Full Presentation With Mirror Display | $499 | Niche |
| 154 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Gentle Fluidity Gold | 200mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $365 | Niche |
| 155 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Gentle Fluidity Gold | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $165 | Niche |
| 156 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | L'eau a La Rose | 35mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $90 | Niche |
| 157 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | L'Homme a la Rose | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $165 | Niche |
| 158 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Masculin Pluriel | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $165 | Niche |
| 159 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Oud EdP | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $170 | Niche |
| 160 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Oud Extrait | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $190 | Niche |
| 161 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Oud Silk Mood EdP | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $170 | Niche |
| 162 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Oud Silk Mood Extrait | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $190 | Niche |
| 163 | Maison Francis Kurkdjian | Petit Matin | 70mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $145 | Niche |
| 164 | Maison Lancome | Orange Bigarades | 100mL | 100% Full | Full presentation with Box | $229 | Niche |
| 165 | Mark Birley | Charles Street | 75mL | 97% Full | Travel Version | $90 | Niche |
| 166 | Memo Paris | French Leather | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $115 | Niche |
| 167 | Memo Paris | Italian Leather | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $115 | Niche |
| 168 | Memo Paris | Lailabella | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $115 | Niche |
| 169 | Memo Paris | Marfa | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $115 | Niche |
| 170 | Memo Paris | Moon Fever | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $115 | Niche |
| 171 | Memo Paris | Oriental Leather | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box or Cap) | $115 | Niche |
| 172 | Mind Games | As-Suli's Diamond | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $249 | Niche |
| 173 | Mind Games | Gardez | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $249 | Niche |
| 174 | Mind Games | Vieri | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $249 | Niche |
| 175 | Mizensir | Bois de Mysore | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $155 | Niche |
| 176 | Mizensir | Cologne de Matte | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $155 | Niche |
| 177 | Mizensir | Ideal Oud | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $155 | Niche |
| 178 | Mizensir | Rose Exaltante | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $155 | Niche |
| 179 | Mizensir | Tonic Water | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $155 | Niche |
| 180 | Mizensir | Vert Empire | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $155 | Niche |
| 181 | Oh Mon Dieu! | L'objet | 100mL | 100% Full | Full presentation with Box | $125 | Niche |
| 182 | Oliver and Co. | M.O.U.S.S.E. | 50mL | 99% Full | Limited Edition 87/133 | $110 | Niche |
| 183 | Parfums de Marley | Valaya | 75mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap (No Box) | $175 | Niche |
| 184 | Penhaligon's | Elixir | 100mL | 90% Full | No Box | $250 | Niche |
| 185 | Penhaligon's | Petra | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $200 | Niche |
| 186 | Penhaligon's | Cairo | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $220 | Niche |
| 187 | Pomare's Stolen Perfume | Angel's Share | 9mL | 70% Full | No Box | $40 | Niche |
| 188 | Precious Liquid | Iced Juniper | 75mL | 95% Full | Full presentation with Box (Limited Edition) | $135 | Niche |
| 189 | Roja Dove | Creation-E Essence de Parfum | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $165 | Niche |
| 190 | Roja Dove | Danger Pour Femme | 50mL | 100% Full | 99% Full with Box | $275 | Niche |
| 191 | Roja Dove | Elixir | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $175 | Niche |
| 192 | Roja Dove | Elixir Essence Pour Femme | 100mL | 100% Full | No Box | $175 | Niche |
| 193 | Roja Dove | Qatar | 50mL | 99% Full | Full Presentation | $339 | Niche |
| 194 | Roja Dove | Scandal Essence de Parfum | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $165 | Niche |
| 195 | Roja Dove | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $300 | Niche |
| 196 | Roman Monegal | L'eau de Rose | 50mL | 97% Full | $70 | Niche | |
| 197 | Santa Maria Novella | Sandalo | 100mL | 95% Full | No Box | $80 | Niche |
| 198 | Sospiro | Deep Amber Ocean | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, No Box | $170 | Niche |
| 199 | Sospiro | Deep Amber Ocean | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $180 | Niche |
| 200 | Spirit of Dubai | Bahar | 50mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap and Travel Case | $175 | Niche |
| 201 | Spirit of Dubai | Rimal | 50mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap and Travel Case | $175 | Niche |
| 202 | Tiziana Terenzi | Attar Cas | 13mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $225 | Niche |
| 203 | Tiziana Terenzi | Chiron | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $165 | Niche |
| 204 | Tiziana Terenzi | Draconis | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $135 | Niche |
| 205 | Tom Ford | Azure Lime - A71 | 50mL | 99% Full | Original Formula | $349 | Niche |
| 206 | Tom Ford | Beau de Jour | 1000mL | 100% Full | Sealed Dramming Bottle | $700 | Niche |
| 207 | Tom Ford | Ebene Fume | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $165 | Niche |
| 208 | Tom Ford | Electric Cherry | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $200 | Niche |
| 209 | Tom Ford | Fleur de Portofino | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $135 | Niche |
| 210 | Tom Ford | Fougere Platine | 1000mL | 100% Full | Sealed Dramming Bottle | $700 | Niche |
| 211 | Tom Ford | Neroli Portofino | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $140 | Niche |
| 212 | Tom Ford | Plum Japonais | 50mL | 100% Full | Decant (No Box) | $215 | Niche |
| 213 | Tom Ford | Rive Ambre - A63 | 50mL | 99% Full | Original Formula | $225 | Niche |
| 214 | Tom Ford | Rose de Amalfi | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $135 | Niche |
| 215 | Tom Ford | Santal Blush | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $140 | Niche |
| 216 | Tom Ford | Soleil Neige | 1000mL | 100% Full | Sealed Dramming Bottle | $700 | Niche |
| 217 | Tom Ford | Tobacco Vanille | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $245 | Niche |
| 218 | Tom Ford | Tubereuse Nue | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $150 | Niche |
| 219 | Tom Ford | Vanille Fatale | 50mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $180 | Niche |
| 220 | Tom Ford | White Suede | 1000mL | 100% Full | Sealed Dramming Bottle | $700 | Niche |
| 221 | Washington Tremlett | Black Tie | 100mL | 95% Full | $125 | Niche | |
| 222 | Widian | II Black | 50mL | 99% Full | Tester (No Box) | $149 | Niche |
| 223 | Yves Saint Laurent | Babycat | 125mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $300 | Niche |
| 224 | Acqua di Parma | Magnolia Nobile | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $95 | Designer |
| 225 | Brunello Cucinelli | Pour Homme | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $90 | Designer |
| 226 | Caron | Pour un Homme de Caron Le Matin | 125mL | 100% Full | Opened to test, sprayed once | $69 | Designer |
| 227 | Caron | Pour un Homme de Caron Le Soir | 125mL | 100% Full | Opened to test, sprayed once | $69 | Designer |
| 228 | Caron | Pour Un Homme Impact Parfum | 75mL | 97% Full | No Box | $175 | Designer |
| 229 | Chanel | Allure Homme Sport - Aftershave Balm | 100mL | 99% Full | No Box | $65 | Designer |
| 230 | Chanel | Allure Pour Femme EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $65 | Designer |
| 231 | Chanel | Bleu de Chanel - Aftershave Balm | 100mL | 99% Full | No Box, Minor Cosmetic Damage | $55 | Designer |
| 232 | Chanel | Bleu de Chanel - Aftershave Lotion | 100mL | 99% Full | No Box, Minor Cosmetic Damage | $55 | Designer |
| 233 | Chanel | Coco EdP | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $85 | Designer |
| 234 | Chanel | Coco Mademoiselle - Moisturizing Body Lotion | 200mL | 99% Full | No Box | $55 | Designer |
| 235 | Chanel | Coco Noir | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $100 | Designer |
| 236 | Chanel | Cristalle Eau Vert EdT Concentree | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $135 | Designer |
| 237 | Chanel | Cristalle EdP | 50mL | 95% Full | Tester; No Box | $135 | Designer |
| 238 | Chanel | Gabrielle Essence | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $100 | Designer |
| 239 | Chanel | No. 19 | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $115 | Designer |
| 240 | Chanel | No. 5 Eau Premiere | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $85 | Designer |
| 241 | Chanel | No. 5 EdP | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $95 | Designer |
| 242 | Chanel | Platinum Egoiste | 75mL | 99% Full | SPLASH, NOT SPRAY Older Formulation | $125 | Designer |
| 243 | Christian Dior | Dior Homme Parfum | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed (Packaging may be slightly damaged) | $175 | Designer |
| 244 | Christian Dior | J'adore in Joy EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap, No Box | $60 | Designer |
| 245 | Floris | Cefiro | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester with Cap, No Box | $59 | Designer |
| 246 | Gucci | Gucci Guilty Absolute | 90mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $70 | Designer |
| 247 | Guerlain | Habit Rouge Parfum | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $130 | Designer |
| 248 | Guerlain | L'Homme Ideal Parfum | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $130 | Designer |
| 249 | Guerlain | L'instant de Guerlain Pour Homme EXTREME | 10mL | 100% Full | VINTAGE BLACK RIM - DECANT | $50 | Designer |
| 250 | Guerlain | Vetiver Parfum | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New, Sealed | $130 | Designer |
| 251 | Hermes | Twilly | 80mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $65 | Designer |
| 252 | Jo Malone | Amber & Lavender | 30mL | 90% Full | No Box | $52 | Designer |
| 253 | Jo Malone | English Oak & Redcurrant | 30mL | 80% Full | No Box | $49 | Designer |
| 254 | Jo Malone | English Pear & Freesia | 100mL | 100% Full | Brand New with Gift Box and Gift Set (Body Wash, Body Lotion) | $180 | Designer |
| 255 | Jo Malone | Rose & White Musk Absolu | 100mL | 100% Full | No Box | $180 | Designer |
| 256 | Jo Malone | Scarlett Poppy Cologne Intense | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Box | $130 | Designer |
| 257 | Lalique | Ombre Noire | 100mL | 100% Full | Sealed | $100 | Designer |
| 258 | Maison Martin Margiela | Replica - Jazz Club | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester (No Box) | $80 | Designer |
| 259 | Thierry Mugler | A*MEN | 100mL | 99% Full | Rubber Flask; No Box | $75 | Designer |
| 260 | Amouage | Cristal and Gold Ladies | 50mL | 95% Full | Vintage, Incredibly hard to find. Full presentation in nice condition | $399 | Vintage |
| 261 | Cartier | Santos EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Spray; Refill. | $299 | Vintage |
| 262 | Chanel | Gardenia EdT | 100mL | 100% Full | Vintage; Sealed | $350 | Vintage |
| 263 | Crabtree & Evelyn | Crabtree & Evelyn Extract of West Indian and Sicilian Limes | 125mL | 100% Full | Full presentation with Box | $209 | Vintage |
| 264 | Dunhill | Cologne | 125mL | 99% Full | Vintage; Splash | $100 | Vintage |
| 265 | Ermenegildo Zegna | Haitian Vetiver | 125mL | 99% Full | No Box | $300 | Vintage |
| 266 | Escada | Pour Homme Aftershave | 75mL | 100% Full | BNIB Sealed | $165 | Vintage |
| 267 | Escada | Pour Homme Aftershave | 125mL | 100% Full | BNIB Sealed | $240 | Vintage |
| 268 | Floris | Special 127 | 100mL | 98% Full | Vintage; Dark Blue Box., 2 Royal Warrants, Vintage Version | $70 | Vintage |
| 269 | Fragonard | Zizanie | 240mL | 80% Full | Shaker bottle (Splash, not spray) no box. At least 80% Full. | $240 | Vintage |
| 270 | Geo F Trumper | Ajaccio Violets | 100mL | 99% Full | $40 | Vintage | |
| 271 | Gucci | Envy Aftershave | 50mL | 100% Full | BNIB Sealed | $140 | Vintage |
| 272 | Gucci | Envy Aftershave | 100mL | 100% Full | BNIB Sealed | $215 | Vintage |
| 273 | Gucci | Rush for Men | 50mL | 100% Full | Full Presentation; These do not come fully filled | $190 | Vintage |
| 274 | Gucci | Rush for Men Aftershave | 100mL | 100% Full | BNIB Sealed | $140 | Vintage |
| 275 | Guerlain | Heritage EdT | 200mL | 100% Full | New; Vintage; Splash. 1991 Bottle. | $225 | Vintage |
| 276 | Guerlain | Samrasa EdP | 50mL | 100% Full | No Box | $109 | Vintage |
| 277 | Guerlain | Samsara EdT 1992-1993 Formulation | 100mL | 100% Full | Tester; No Cap; No Box | $109 | Vintage |
| 278 | Jean Desprez | Bal a Versailles | 9 Oz | 70% Full | Vintage; Splash; No Box Open to offers on this enormous bottle. | $135 | Vintage |
| 279 | Lacoste | Eau de Sport Vivifiante | 100mL | 99% Full | No Box | $110 | Vintage |
| 280 | Lacoste | Land | 100mL | 99% Full | $130 | Vintage | |
| 281 | Nino Cerruti | Fair Play Pour Homme | 100mL | 99% Full | Full presentation with Box | $275 | Vintage |
| 282 | Paco Rabanne | Eau de Metal | 20mL | 100% Full | Vintage; Mini | $15 | Vintage |
| 283 | Revillon | Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Super Concentrate | 60mL | 99% Full | Atomizer | $190 | Vintage |
| 284 | Revillon | Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Super Concentrate | 90mL | 99% Full | Atomizer | $290 | Vintage |
2024.05.14 19:06 TradedMedia Yehuda Kohn Acquires Mixed-Use Building In Williamsburg For $3M
The mixed-use building at 489 Grand Street in Williamsburg was purchased for $3 million by Yehuda Kohn's 489 Grand Holdings LLC from Pedro and Orlando Ledesma. The property, spanning 1,942 square feet, includes 5,547 square feet of additional air rights, allowing for a total of 7,497 buildable square feet.
Learn More: Yehuda Kohn Acquires Mixed-Use Building In Williamsburg For $3M
submitted by TradedMedia to tradedny [link] [comments]
Summary of transation details:
- Property Type: Mixed-use
- Transaction Amount: $3,000,000
- Address: 489 Grand Street
- Market: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
- BSF: 7,497
- PPBSF: $400
- SF: 1,942
- PPSF: $1,545
Learn More: Yehuda Kohn Acquires Mixed-Use Building In Williamsburg For $3M
2024.05.14 18:57 lovemyfatdogsomuch How long will stores and Amazon have the iPad Air 5 on sale?
title. curious as too how fast these will sell out and if it is better to wait or to buy soon. Amazon has it at around $600 right now, 20% off. I am wondering if in a few days or weeks it will drop more or not. Thanks!
submitted by lovemyfatdogsomuch to ipad [link] [comments]
2024.05.14 17:43 webdevfe 🛍 Today's Top 10 Deals: May 14 2024
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$219 -Super Hot Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Band Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping. Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Loop for $200
$609 -Super Hot 2022 Apple 10.9-inch iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) - Silver (10th Generation) Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping.
$1.99 -Super Hot AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning ABS MFi Certified Charging Cable Go to Woot. add to cart for $4.99 - $3 with code WOOTTECH = $1.99. Shipping is free with Prime
Select Apple Accessories for sale @Woot Go to Woot, add it to your cart. free shipping with Prime (30-Day Free Trial). Apple Leather Sleeve for 13-Inch MacBook $34.99 Apple Smart Folio (for 11" iPad Pro and iPad Air 4th Gen) $19.99 Apple Smart Folio (for iPad Pro 12.9" - 3rd Gen) $29.99
$179.99 (was $243) -Super Hot Zojirushi 5.5-Cup NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping.
See more deals at https://zelement.com/deals
submitted by webdevfe to top10deals [link] [comments]
$17.99 -Super Hot Microsoft Windows 11 Home Digital Go to Woot. select Model "Windows 11 Home" and add to cart for $19.99 Windows 11 Pro $29.99
Today Only, 80% off All Clearance @Gymboree /The Children's Place Go to Gymboree /The Children's Place. 80% off All Clearance. Shipping is free on $20+.
$259.27 (was $399) - Super Hot Denon AVR-S570BT (2022 Model) 5.2 Channel AV Receiver Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping. 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video, Enhanced Gaming Experience, Wireless Streaming via Built-in Bluetooth, (4) 8K HDMI Inputs, Supports eARC
Extra 40% Off Sale: women's Advantage Shoes $21 @Adidas eBay Go to Ebay.com, add it to your cart. extra 40% off with code ADIDAS40. Shipping is free. adidas women Advantage Shoes $35 - 40% = $21 adidas men Kaptir 2.0 Shoes $31 adidas men NMD_R1 V2 Shoes $51 women Terrex Speed Ultra Trail Running Shoes (Black/white) $57 adidas women Saturday Hat $8.40 adidas men Essentials Warm-Up 3-Stripes Track Jacket $16.80 adidas men Pro 3.0 Official Game Ball $19.80
$219 -Super Hot Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Band Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping. Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Loop for $200
$609 -Super Hot 2022 Apple 10.9-inch iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB) - Silver (10th Generation) Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping.
$1.99 -Super Hot AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning ABS MFi Certified Charging Cable Go to Woot. add to cart for $4.99 - $3 with code WOOTTECH = $1.99. Shipping is free with Prime
Select Apple Accessories for sale @Woot Go to Woot, add it to your cart. free shipping with Prime (30-Day Free Trial). Apple Leather Sleeve for 13-Inch MacBook $34.99 Apple Smart Folio (for 11" iPad Pro and iPad Air 4th Gen) $19.99 Apple Smart Folio (for iPad Pro 12.9" - 3rd Gen) $29.99
$179.99 (was $243) -Super Hot Zojirushi 5.5-Cup NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer Go to Amazon.com, add it to your cart. And Free Shipping.
See more deals at https://zelement.com/deals
2024.05.14 16:50 frjacobs Top 10 Benefits of Investing in Romania
Romania is becoming a popular choice for investors interested in investing in Romania due to its strategic location in Europe, which provides easy access to various markets such as the EU, CIS, and Middle East. The country offers a strong landscape for potential investment opportunities in Romania.
Romania has a positive business environment, ranking 55th globally on the Ease of Doing Business index. In addition, it offers investment incentives such as tax breaks and grants to attract “investitori in Romania”. The country’s significant infrastructure investments further enhance its attractiveness as a logistical hub, making it a strategic choice for foreign investors seeking growth and innovation in a stable democratic setting.
Get in touch with us and we will assist you in making your goals a reality. You can reach us at +32 478 331 799 and ask for Freddy Jacobs. Alternatively, you can also connect with us on Linkedin.
Potential Investment Sectors and Opportunities in Romania:
Romania is a hub for IT innovation and digital services due to its competitive costs and abundant talent in the field of IT and telecommunications.
Romania is well-positioned for investments in both renewable and conventional energy due to its status as the top EU country in terms of energy independence.
Real Estate: Although there are limitations on the sale of land to individuals who are not citizens of the European Union, the expanding real estate industry, particularly in Bucharest, offers promising chances for investment.
The government’s emphasis on fostering a favorable climate for investment is apparent through its implementation of cautious financial strategies and dedication to digitalization.
Romania’s potential as an attractive destination for foreign investment is reinforced by a combination of factors, including its skilled labor force and vast reserves of natural resources.
1. Tax Incentives and Citizenship Route: Entrepreneurs can take advantage of advantageous tax rates for small businesses and have the opportunity to obtain Romanian citizenship in four to eight years. With permanent residence permits, there is no need for annual renewals, and family members are also eligible for long-term residence permits.
2. Role of Foreign Investments in Economic Growth and Job Creation: In Romania, foreign investments play a significant part in driving economic growth. This, in turn, leads to the creation of jobs, which helps to decrease unemployment rates and boost local economies.
3. Advancements in Technology and the Market:
The productivity within the Romanian market is boosted by the incorporation of advanced technology and progressive methods.
Romanian companies can expand their reach to global markets, resulting in a boost in sales and a larger market share.
The country’s efficiency and service delivery are strengthened by enhancements in infrastructure, including transportation systems and utilities.
4. The Competitive Market Environment:
The influx of foreign entities leads to heightened market competition, leading to improved product quality, reduced prices, and enhanced services for consumers.
Local employees are equipped with enhanced skills and knowledge through education and training opportunities offered by foreign investors.
Romania’s position as a desirable investment location is reinforced by a combination of factors, which provide clear advantages to international investors and also contribute to the country’s social and economic progress.
Some examples of these are:
The economy and government of Romania have a close relationship, as the government has a notable presence in the economy through state-owned enterprises. This can have an impact on market dynamics. Furthermore, there have been challenges in effectively planning and investing due to the management instability in these enterprises since 2014.
Investors frequently face obstacles from government regulations and bureaucracy, including excessive paperwork, an unstable legislative system, and corruption, all of which can hinder business activities. Additionally, constant changes to legislation without input from the private sector only add to the uncertainty.
Businesses face challenges with infrastructure and workforce in Romania. The inadequate infrastructure can increase costs and hinder productivity, while the scarcity of labor, especially in the northern and western regions, makes it difficult to attract and retain employees. Environmental concerns, such as insufficient waste management methods and problems with air quality and preservation of natural areas, also create complexities for potential investments.
Conducting comprehensive due diligence and gaining a deep understanding of the local context are crucial factors for individuals considering investment opportunities in Romania.
1. Acquiring a Residency Permit:
Individuals who are not permanent residents have the opportunity to obtain a residence permit that is valid for one year by making an investment in a company based in Romania. This investment will open doors for the possibility of conducting long-term business activities.
2. Investment Priorities in Romania:
The General Inspectorate for Immigration has a tendency towards favoring investments in the real estate and technology industries, revealing promising and lucrative areas for international investors.
3. Extension of Stay Permit:
The Romanian Agency for Foreign Investments assesses the effect of the investment in order to renew the residence permit and maintain the ongoing business operations.
Section 4: Exceptions
Individuals from the United States, Canada, Japan, and Switzerland are granted exemptions from specific stipulations, including minimum investment requirements, quotas for job creation, and proofs of financial stability, which facilitates a more seamless entry process.
5. Documentation:
Important papers consist of evidence of company ownership or shares, proof of legal accommodation, documentation of financial stability, proof of social health insurance, a medical certificate, and a receipt for the residence permit fee.
The process of investing in Romania is made easier through this comprehensive guide, which also showcases the government’s favorable attitude towards foreign investments. This promotes a wide variety of global business opportunities.
submitted by frjacobs to investmentRomania [link] [comments]
Romania has a positive business environment, ranking 55th globally on the Ease of Doing Business index. In addition, it offers investment incentives such as tax breaks and grants to attract “investitori in Romania”. The country’s significant infrastructure investments further enhance its attractiveness as a logistical hub, making it a strategic choice for foreign investors seeking growth and innovation in a stable democratic setting.
Get in touch with us and we will assist you in making your goals a reality. You can reach us at +32 478 331 799 and ask for Freddy Jacobs. Alternatively, you can also connect with us on Linkedin.
An Overview of Investment Opportunities in Romania
The investment landscape of Romania is influenced by various important factors that make it a desirable location for foreign investors. One significant aspect is that non-residents are allowed to buy and sell apartments, while the purchase of land is limited to non-EU citizens, unless done through Romanian companies. This promotes a relatively open real estate market with a consistent increase in residential property prices. Furthermore, Romania’s strategic location in Europe, membership in the EU, and proximity to major markets such as Central Asia and the Near East add to its attractiveness. Additionally, the country offers abundant opportunities in industries such as IT, automotive, and energy, supported by a skilled and cost-efficient workforce.Potential Investment Sectors and Opportunities in Romania:
Romania is a hub for IT innovation and digital services due to its competitive costs and abundant talent in the field of IT and telecommunications.
Romania is well-positioned for investments in both renewable and conventional energy due to its status as the top EU country in terms of energy independence.
Real Estate: Although there are limitations on the sale of land to individuals who are not citizens of the European Union, the expanding real estate industry, particularly in Bucharest, offers promising chances for investment.
Romania’s Government Policies and Economic Indicators:
The government of Romania offers equal treatment to both domestic and foreign investors, without any discrimination based on their source of capital. This, along with a relatively low level of public debt and a favorable growth rate, establishes Romania as a secure and attractive location for investment.The government’s emphasis on fostering a favorable climate for investment is apparent through its implementation of cautious financial strategies and dedication to digitalization.
Romania’s potential as an attractive destination for foreign investment is reinforced by a combination of factors, including its skilled labor force and vast reserves of natural resources.
Advantages of Investing in Romania
There are numerous advantages of investing in Romania that not only contribute to the growth of the investor, but also contribute to the economic development of the country as a whole. Some of the key benefits include:1. Tax Incentives and Citizenship Route: Entrepreneurs can take advantage of advantageous tax rates for small businesses and have the opportunity to obtain Romanian citizenship in four to eight years. With permanent residence permits, there is no need for annual renewals, and family members are also eligible for long-term residence permits.
2. Role of Foreign Investments in Economic Growth and Job Creation: In Romania, foreign investments play a significant part in driving economic growth. This, in turn, leads to the creation of jobs, which helps to decrease unemployment rates and boost local economies.
3. Advancements in Technology and the Market:
The productivity within the Romanian market is boosted by the incorporation of advanced technology and progressive methods.
Romanian companies can expand their reach to global markets, resulting in a boost in sales and a larger market share.
The country’s efficiency and service delivery are strengthened by enhancements in infrastructure, including transportation systems and utilities.
4. The Competitive Market Environment:
The influx of foreign entities leads to heightened market competition, leading to improved product quality, reduced prices, and enhanced services for consumers.
Local employees are equipped with enhanced skills and knowledge through education and training opportunities offered by foreign investors.
Romania’s position as a desirable investment location is reinforced by a combination of factors, which provide clear advantages to international investors and also contribute to the country’s social and economic progress.
Difficulties and Factors to Consider for Investors in Romania
There are various challenges and factors to consider when making investments in Romania that investors should be mindful of.Some examples of these are:
The economy and government of Romania have a close relationship, as the government has a notable presence in the economy through state-owned enterprises. This can have an impact on market dynamics. Furthermore, there have been challenges in effectively planning and investing due to the management instability in these enterprises since 2014.
Investors frequently face obstacles from government regulations and bureaucracy, including excessive paperwork, an unstable legislative system, and corruption, all of which can hinder business activities. Additionally, constant changes to legislation without input from the private sector only add to the uncertainty.
Businesses face challenges with infrastructure and workforce in Romania. The inadequate infrastructure can increase costs and hinder productivity, while the scarcity of labor, especially in the northern and western regions, makes it difficult to attract and retain employees. Environmental concerns, such as insufficient waste management methods and problems with air quality and preservation of natural areas, also create complexities for potential investments.
Conducting comprehensive due diligence and gaining a deep understanding of the local context are crucial factors for individuals considering investment opportunities in Romania.
How to Invest in Romania
To those foreign investors considering Romania as their next business location, it is crucial to comprehend the necessary actions to establish a presence. Below is a simplified guide:1. Acquiring a Residency Permit:
Individuals who are not permanent residents have the opportunity to obtain a residence permit that is valid for one year by making an investment in a company based in Romania. This investment will open doors for the possibility of conducting long-term business activities.
2. Investment Priorities in Romania:
The General Inspectorate for Immigration has a tendency towards favoring investments in the real estate and technology industries, revealing promising and lucrative areas for international investors.
3. Extension of Stay Permit:
The Romanian Agency for Foreign Investments assesses the effect of the investment in order to renew the residence permit and maintain the ongoing business operations.
Section 4: Exceptions
Individuals from the United States, Canada, Japan, and Switzerland are granted exemptions from specific stipulations, including minimum investment requirements, quotas for job creation, and proofs of financial stability, which facilitates a more seamless entry process.
5. Documentation:
Important papers consist of evidence of company ownership or shares, proof of legal accommodation, documentation of financial stability, proof of social health insurance, a medical certificate, and a receipt for the residence permit fee.
The process of investing in Romania is made easier through this comprehensive guide, which also showcases the government’s favorable attitude towards foreign investments. This promotes a wide variety of global business opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Reasons for Investing in Romania?
With its skilled labor force, abundant natural resources, advantageous geographic position for efficient transportation, and position as a major market in Central and Eastern Europe, Romania offers a strong argument for investment. These combined elements make Romania an increasingly attractive choice for investors.What are the primary foreign investors in Romania?
Germany is the top foreign investor in Romania, followed by Austria with a 10.7% stake, France with 9.7%, Italy with 7.8%, the United States with 6.7%, and the Netherlands with 5.3%. These nations have acknowledged the potential and prospects in Romania and have made considerable investments in different sectors of its economy.Which Industry is the Most Lucrative in Romania?
Romania is known for its highly profitable IT and software industry. This success can be attributed to the country’s education system, which prioritizes technical expertise. In fact, Romania ranks 6th globally for having the highest number of certified IT professionals per person. The profitability of this sector is a clear indication of Romania’s strong pool of technical talent and favorable business climate.Factors Considered by Investors When Evaluating a Country for Investment
When evaluating a nation for possible investment prospects, investors commonly examine its economic and fiscal foundations. Essential factors that are frequently examined include the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), levels of inflation, and readings of the Consumer Price Index (CPI). These measures offer valuable information on the country’s economic well-being and reliability, assisting investors in making well-informed choices.Get in touch with us to make your goals a reality – we are here to assist you. Contact Freddy Jacobs at +32 478 331 799, or connect with us on Linkedin.
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2024.05.14 16:30 Corruptfun As If It Were Kismet Prologue & Chapters 1-5
As If It Were Kismet: Prologue
Matt tore through the brush, blind in the dark. He didn’t care where he was going. He only knew he needed to be elsewhere. Far from here.
Behind him a creature howled that shocked his mind. It’s form was cruel and dangerous, though female. Nothing like the young woman she had once been. Nothing but a girl, a small and slight female.
It’s guttural growls and howls only grew closer as Matt tried to pick between seeing where he was going and getting away. The few times he looked he caught sight of the creature behind him. Hopping through the air with a speed that told him he was being toyed with. As if he were a mouse being played with by a cat.
But the reflex in him to run kept him going. His adrenaline going as hard as it could. The tightness and burning in his core tensing and locking up as his legs felt like there were being burned from within while taking on more of a heaviness.
His lungs were starting to betray him as he tried to gulp big breaths of air but only rapid and shallow breaths were all that he could manage. His brain was starting to burn….and then he was falling.
Falling down the side of a hill he saw the creature dart in a spring towards him, imperceivably fast almost. Catching him in mid air it seemed.
Managing to wrap its body around him and cushion his impact against the ground as they rolled. His mind barely took in what was happening during the roll. Only starting to understand what was happening once they were still.
The creature's triple D-cup breasts were unmistakably pressed hard against his back as he laid facing up at the night sky.
For a few seconds the world stilled and the needle light pain hitting the center of his brain took over for the cooking heat his brain had felt. His whole body felt heavy and reluctant to move.
Even if he could have really moved, a dull ache came over his limbs making them feel stilled and trapped as if by immeasurable amounts of sand that had engulfed him.
Slowly the arms holding him started to move. Moving so the creature's hands could start exploring him. Causing Matt to unstoppably let out a pathetic moan that made him go cold inside as hands lifted up his shirt and started to touch his exposed stomach and then his chest.
He would have whimpered so pathetically had he not still been in the depths of terror.
As its hands felt and groped his pecs he tried to situp as if to get away. For his efforts, his reward was a hand around his throat and a collection snarls and growls against his ear. A beastly, guttural voice spat words at him while somehow holding a feminine tone.
“Don’t move….I don’t know if I can calm down…”
Her words were not helped by her moans in his ear and the subsequent kissing of his ear. The flesh of his ear going between her lips as she moaned and seemed to pant. Releasing it and licking the side of his face with a moist warmth. He could feel its spittle, viscous and coating his flesh where the tongue touched. He could smell something in his saliva. Something that subtly entranced him.
Matt went stock still with fear and the confusion of mixed arousal. He barely perceived her right hand traveling lower on his body. A surprised moan and shudder echoed in the night from Matt’s lips as she took ahold of him. Her hand above his pants but still….stimulating him.
A light squeezing and almost probing of her digits kept him aroused and confused within her grasp. Resigning himself to the strange fate, Matt looked up at the stars as his mind tried not to shatter under the strange maelstrom of events and sensation that had started mere minutes ago.
His mind was only more confused as a slight figure, feminine in build, how it seemed to thunk the ground audibly as she landed on her feet out nowhere. Her knees barely bending under the pressure of the landing. Yet dirt was kicked up anyways and some of it onto Matt. Feeling it pepper his shirt and pants as it fell.
The figure, lit only faintly by moonlight, roared some dark tone Matt could only perceive as a demon as her eyes went bright with a crimson light. A light in the darkness that should not have been. “Let him go you bitch.” Was its words following the roar. Spittle escaping its mouth with faint droplets hit Matt's face.
The creature holding him by his throat and crotch seemed to tighten the grasp of both hands as it roared back. “HE IS MINE!”
The figure paused with a moment's hesitation. He was also her quarry. She had felt his fear without him knowing. His confused arousal. His fear. His terror.
And now he laid at the center of a struggle between two monsters. Unsure of who he wanted to win.
As If It Was Kismet Ch. 1
Matthew Berkshire hadn’t seen his mom in two years. Not that he had seen her much over the last six years.
A messy divorce between messy people and mom’s chaotic want for a life in Alaska had been one of the most…upsetting times in life. Setting him up for so much of what had defined his life thus far but then that had really started two years before he ever turned.
His ear buds were basic and simple. A part of cheap five pack, common for his life as he was known to lose little things. Small things. They had a mix of metal and hard rock playing in them. Some classics, some alternative. Whatever made him feel something, anything. Even if it was hate. Anger. Rage. It was better than feeling numb. Not belonging.
The escalator down to his lone bag to go with his lone carry on showed his mom waiting for him. His had a type, that’s for damn sure. Not that it helped him in the genetics department as he was stuck at 5’9” to go along with his mother’s five foot even as his dad stood six foot. Forever leaving him to feel small, to pale, under his dad’s shadow. Did he ever stand a chance?
The guy next to her with the unkempt former seventies porn stache was “Dave.” He’d met him twice when his mother came and visited him in Florida. To his credit the guy didn’t look annoyed. Kind of concerned kind of which made Matthew want to break his frozen look but he was well practiced. Having removed any note of sadness from his face through much…tribulation.
His mother’s look on her face betrayed a hint of worry as the bruises on his face lightly showed up close. Saying his name was his like a distant echo that belonged to someone else.
Dave cut in and pulled out his right headphone. “What the hell bud, they knock you hard enough to hurt hearing? Your mom’s asking how you are doing.”
Matthew pulled out the other bud and grunted an empty “sorry.”
“You still have bruises after two week? What did they do to you?” His mom’s voice was full of worry. Something he hadn’t heard in….too long. Too long to make him feel anything. To ever make him believe there was any sincerity to her words. To not think her voice and mannerisms were an act. An act by someone who…wasn’t really there.
“It’s only fair. I took a nose. Fractured a couple orbital bones. Left one with having to get his jaw wired shut. And one will never walk right again for what I did to his knee cap.” Matthew said it all with a bored and disinterested tone. Perhaps well rehearsed.
“My man, handing out ass kickings, not bothering to take names.” Dave was quick to be the typical man’s man about it. Matthew wasn’t quite done yet. Lifting up his shirt to expose the right side near his kidney. Revealing a nasty scar from a six inch blade. “Luckily they gave me this first so they could rule it all in self-defense. The fuck didn’t get it in more than inch before I ruined his knee cap and then I took the nose of one of the fucks holding me.” Now he chose to smile keeping the well practiced dead look in his eyes.
No retorts. No questions. Just horrified looks on their faces. As he liked. As he preferred. They could hate him. They could be disgusted by him. But by God they would fear him.
“Well the doc did a good job sewing you up.” Dave commented uncomfortably. “Dissolving sutures. Ain’t they grand.” He smiled again and let it abruptly fall off his face and started walking to the carousel for the baggage claim.
Waiting and making small talk with Dave as his mother stood in silence. He was not the little boy she abandoned. The little boy she left with an angry man. While never hitting him. Left him in constant fear till he turned twelve and just didn’t care anymore. Something snapped. Broke. And he didn’t care if he died. Didn’t care if he stole. Didn’t even care if he killed. He just knew not to get caught. Something left over from his grandfather’s wisdom which came to make more and more sense with each passing year of life since that thing inside him broke.
Finally his bag came around and Dave went to try first to grab it but Dave practically leapt ahead of him. “Is that your grandfather’s rucksack bag?” his mother asked in a perplexed voice.
“Figured it’s been around since Viet Nam. So it’d serve me better than any of the worthless stuff they called luggage.” Dave commented after Matthew’s words. “Well hell yeah I still got mine from Desert Storm. You know the first one.” Dave laughed and Matthew eyed him oddly. Be it in the south or whether it was Alaska, country boys are country boys he guessed.
The car ride to the two people’s house, as Matthew thought of them. Was uneventful and full of vistas he imagined metropolitan types wetting themselves over. At most they meant isolation to him. Furtherness from the world as there were no mountains in Florida. And what mountains he had last seen in another state had been when he was eight. Another life, to Matthew it felt like. A life alien to him.
As If It Was Kismet Ch 2
Dave and his mom’s place was some two story type tucked into a tree line far up an elevated point. It was by no means the highest point in the mountain but it certainly felt up there.
Rocks were where the driveway should have been Matthew thought. Grabbing his backpack and rucksack from Dave’s jeep was no hard thing for him. Matthew was in formidable shape for someone his age, maybe even five years older. He had gotten a mix of fairly big shoulders and arms along with the chest to go for it when compared to most kids his age. A side effect of working out at least twice a day. First thing in the morning, some time in the evening, and the school’s gym when had had a good semester in school before he had to leave Florida.
Dave tried to come up and help him but Matthew walked past him towards the house. His mom was not sure what to make of his demeanor. Matthew was not the sweet kind boy he had once been. But she had been gone from his life essentially for a long time.
Ushering him into the house she cracked some joke he did not hear. He was too busy looking about and seeing a mix of old outdated decorating mixed with the strange and odd flair of his mother. Color contrasting against drab and dated. Like brightly painting over an old home that was falling apart he thought.
“Your room is this way Mattie.” His mom brightly intoned.
Without expressing any interest he followed his mother. Still faced and nonplussed. Just going along with the current. Pushed and pulled with its roll like a piece of driftwood.
The room was simple. A single small bed. A set of rubber weights with a curl bar and barbells. “Your dad said you were into weight lifting so we got you a bunch of stuff. Dave says it looks like his department’s gym almost. The woman’s smile felt very alien to him.
“Thank you. I appreciate it. I’ve got most of my stuff from home.” Matthew starting unpacking his rucksack and pulled out cables of repetitive and mixed colors. A single plastic barbell handle. The ruck sack could be filled with water bottles for added weight during pushups he figured. Remembering a Michael Keaton movie he watched with his dad post-Batman movies where he played a convicted killer using plastic bags filled with water for weights.
Matthew caught movement outside his lone fairly large window that could let him step out onto the roof of the house given its layout.
He saw a number of people running together through what he guessed was the backyard of the property, not that it had any fences to mark boundaries
They wore clothes that looked similar yet different from each other at the same time.”Oh those are the Johnston’s. Really nice bunch of people. Been on the mountain for a long time Dave tells me.”
Matthew looked at the group of people running and noticed the lack of resemblance. “They are related?” Matthew quizzically asked. Seeing a black and possibly a hispanic person amongst the bland looking white people.
“Oh well they are all adopted but for one or two of them…besides the parents of course. The family has a long tradition of taking in orphans they say. Real nice of them to do that don’t you think.”
Matthew looked at his mother and the hosier accent made no sense to him as he arched his left eye brow. Her and his dad were both from Florida. Born and raised. Sure her parents were from New York city but…
Matthew shook his lightly without turning to look at his mother as his vision was grabbed by one of the runners in particular. A girl of moderate height. Soft brunette. A plain beauty he figured with a slim build….and lack of remarkable breasts and rear to make any note of but….girls in general were his type at his age.
She was pretty enough. He couldn’t deny that but he found himself transfixed by her visage.
But the way she turned and looked at him, especially at that distance felt very disconcerting to him. Even if she was smiling like…she was a taste of a bright shiny day. Somehow.
Matthew’s mom noticed the exchange and smiled to herself with closed lips. “Oh that’s Vicky. She’s your age I think. Very sweet girl, who does the charity functions. You know bake sales, blood drives, car washes and the like. I think you should get to know her. Might be good for you.”
A truck horn sounded a couple of beeps in rather succession. “Oh that must be Mack, he said he might come by later this evening but he seems early.”
Matthew’s mother turned and left his room. Leaving Matthew to exchange a few looks with the alluring Vicky as she turned her head away from him to talk to the others in her group and look back at him.
Still Matthew’s left eyebrow was arched. In a way that reminded him of Spock from Star Trek that he and his grandpa used to watch on some streaming service or another.
As he heard ambient chatter elsewhere outside the house he figured to check it out as the alluring sight of Vicky would be around he figured. It was dull to stare at artwork. He was a boy who preferred jet skis and the like. Something he could ride and enjoy immensely. Even if at times it got him stabbed.
As If It Was Kismet Ch 3
Matthew sauntered out of the house and down the rockway that stood in for a driveway.
A few new people had come over from what he could first surmise of the situation. As he got closer it was obvious they were indigenous people. A couple of grown men…and a girl?
She was mousey. Maybe five foot. Hiding behind glasses and a big camo jacket that was far too big for her. It looked made for a grown man and the backwards trucker hat on her head kept her long black a beautiful mess of sorts.
She was cute in a way. A little androgynous but she had a cute energy to her. She reminded him of the more tomboyish Puerto Rican girls he had gotten into back in Florida. Given the deer corpses in the back of the truck….probably more dangerous to play with given the men in her family.
Small chatter passed between the adults when the girl noticed but turned away, trying to hide the tiny hint of a smile.
“Oh Mattie, this is Mack. He works with Dave at the sheriff’s department and John, he’s with fish and wildlife.” Matthew nodded at his mom’s words with some blankness as he looked at the deer the in the back of the pickup truck.
“Gale tells us you hunted with your dad some in Florida and Georgia.” Mack offered with a light hearted laugh camouflaged by his big simple and cheery but husky way he spoke.
Looking in the back of the truck he spoke. “We used lever action thirty-thirties and Mosin Nagants in seven-six-two-fifty-four-rimmed.” Mack and John whistled in an exaggerated fashion. Leaving Matthew to wonder if they were mocking him.
Mack spoke. “Well we just used thirty-odd-six in a custom gussied Garand.” That caught Matthew’s attention. “You have a Garand…” Matthew finally demonstrated interest in anything. “My dad has an SVT-40 and a Hakim 8mm but he always wanted a Garand but was too cheap to buy one.”
Gale, his mother, chimed in loudly. “Oh his Dad loved his guns but was such an odd duck about how he bought or why he bought them. Never made sense to me how he wasn’t a collector but he didn’t get the latest and greatest.” Gale laughed uncomfortably. At least it seemed that way to Matthew.
Matthew pointed to the girl with an underhanded pointing hand. “And who is this? A cute little mute mouse or does she have a name?” Dave and the other men laughed.
Mack again spoke. “Well you people call her Rebecca, she’s my adopted daughter.” Matthew was taken aback by what he heard. “You people?”
Rebecca kindly spoke with a soft but almost melodic voice as she struggled to maintain eye contact. “White people or rather not members of our tribe. It’s just easier to appease the colonizer kind of thing. Borrowed from when the Jesuit missionaries chased us up here.”
Mack stepped in. “It’s just easier to have white people names than have them try to say our tribal names. And we don’t want them shortening or Anglicising our names kind of thing.” Rebecca stepped back into the conversation cutting off her adopted father. “It’s an insult to our history basically.”
Matthew cocked his head sideways raising his eyebrows shortly before letting them drop. “Well as soon as I’m eighteen I’m out of here and back to Florida so I’m a sort of involuntary colonizer of sorts. So I won’t be taking any of your land from you. The Seminoles on the other hand are still shit out of luck.”
Rebecca’s smile caused Matthew to reflexively smile. Mack made the moment more awkward. “See Becca, I told you someone off the reservation would like you some. You just have to be creative.” Mack laughed in a chiding manner…Matthew presumed. He sensed that he was the butt of some kind of cultural joke. Like marrying a white guy was some sort of insult or mark of shame. That kind of thing.
Rebecca turning away from him was not something he had been expecting. Her then getting in the truck in a huff left the group in a silence for a moment.
Dave spoke to break the awkward silence. “Well just bring the truck to work on Monday and leave it for me to grab up.” Mack acknowledged Dave and they started to get off as Rebecca looked at Matthew for another instance. Matthew couldn’t look away for some reason as the two seemed to lock eyes for an instance.
Till Vicky and family seemed to come jogging down the road. While Matthew’s eyes diverted from Rebecca’s. Hers did not till she realized he was looking elsewhere. And her vision found Vicky and what had been a hint of smile on her face turned glum and disappointed.
Matthew did not look away from the vision of Vicky but instead of a starry eyed fool looking longingly. It was a baffled look. Well baffled for him, with his eyes drawn narrow and night with a focus.
There was something about her…he couldn’t quite put a name too. The way she appeared to him. One second brunette. The next second blonde or blonde like. As if the color appeared in her air and disappeared in fractions of seconds. Much the same way her body almost seemed to…shift…very subtly…smoothly. A nicer bum. Larger breasts. And then back to a simple and plain form. Feminine no doubt. Attractive. But not so…remarkable.
As If It Was Kismet Ch 4
The next two days passed without incident. Nothing of any real substance or challenge to note.
Matthew got settled somewhat and started working out almost immediately. Exploring around the woods but Dave told him not to go far. Especially without a hunting rifle. Dave had left a simple semi-auto Winchester out for him. His bear gun as Dave referred to it with its four round magazine. But Matt figured till he got some practice with the rifle to leave it alone. He made a hiking stick like his grandpa taught him and treated it over a low fire. He would take some electrical tape for the end his hand would grip around. Plenty enough to ward off anything smaller than a bear he figured.
The ride to school was a pain in the neck but simple enough. Dave would let him use a clunker pickup truck he had laying around. It wasn’t pretty but it would get him to and from. Even if it was from the eighties and still backfired on occasion. But for now Dave and his mom took him on their way to the sheriff’s department.
It wasn’t much of a school. It wanted to be modern but its fifties original construction was very obvious. It serviced the pipeline families and familys’ of fisherman who worked the seasons in between their time at the pipeline.
Matt was to report to the principal for some reason Dave and his mom wouldn’t share. Which annoyed him but he figured it was to read him the law of land. Small towns with their big views of the outside world and like.
Dressed in jeans, a grey sweatshirt under a light jacket with steel toed boots set him more apart then he expected. His buzzed head didn’t help matters. Already he was feeling like a stranger in a strange land but he was quite strange after all. And he liked it that way. Normal people were so pathetically disappointing to him.
A secretary or assistant or some such led him to the principal’s office. Where it reeked of real wood that was old and fabric and upholstery that needed to be updated for the last twenty years, Matt figured.
“This is Matthew Berkshire, Principal Andrews.” The man was turned with his back to the door and he was quick to wave her off as he turned her around.
He was an older man. Fat and large. Tall with a body built like he had once been fit and a demeanour of annoyed and irate already as he fixed Matt with a scowl and look of disgust. Another worthless government whore. Matt thought to himself. His father and his grandfather had bestowed unto him a natural disrespect for government workers and the figures that wore unjustified authority as a shield but pretended the weight of the state was not at their back ready to crush all who resisted. Little figures of valor pretending to be mighty and alone but acting with the tyranny of the state and all the backing.
“Mr. Berkshire, please sit down.” His tone wasn’t unusually hostile, just gruff. As if he had better things to do.
Matt complied and took a seat in the chair while maintaining a friendly facade. Not everyone was an enemy. And not everyone needed to be an enemy. Even if anybody could be any enemy. There was no reason to make enemies you didn’t have to. Another of his grandfather’s bastardised wisdoms.
“Well I looked over you file and you have quite the history Mr. Berkshire.” Matt resisted qiuping back a joke. Instead he waited for Principal Andrews to continue as he remained nonplussed and looking as if he felt no need to respond. A simple head tilt with dead eyes looking back at the principle as if he was not even there would suffice.
Matt’s reaction or lack of a reaction rather made Principal Andrews only narrow his eyes with examination. He was not used to a kid not responding to him. Especially with his gruff and hard act going on.
“Well by all accounts you moved here after some problems at your last school. A fight broke out and you did some real harm to your fellow students it appears.” Of course, he would take the side of the perpetrators. School administrators always did. Especially when they weren’t white. Just a fact of the times. Cowardice and pathetic mediocrity was the way they leaned, like good government workers sucking the dick of Big Daddy government. Worthless whores.
Matt chose to reply. “Oh you mean the criminals that stabbed me. Got arrested at the hospital and then pled to felonies. Yeah Florida, with the American counties are good like that.” Principal Andrews went real still. No shame. No fear. No penitence. He didn’t like that.
“Well be it as it may Mr. Berkshire we don’t tolerate that kind of behaviour here…” Matt cut him off responding with a deadpan tone. “You mean self-defense meant to save one’s own life while the cowardly and pathetic school workers look on with zero interest but to keep their money rolling in and will allow known gang members with records of violent acts and crimes that should have them expelled many times over, where in certain Democrat counties such cowardice and idiocy empowered a couple school shooters?”
Principal Andrews looked at the Matt with a note of disgust. “Look here Mr. Berkshire, your beliefs matter not one bit here. This isn’t Florida. We don’t like our way of life being disrupted by outside agitators who have problems with authority.”
Matt did his best not to roll his eyes and let the older fat man drone own as he dead-stared him. Lifeless and without emotion.
The man came to a finish and Matt spoke up without having listened to him or paid him any attention. “Great now that’s taken care of. Can I please get to class and finish my sentence of two years at your wonderful school?”
Principal Andrews huffed and snorted before calling in Vicky. Vicky stood in the corner after entering with a quiet and seamless presence. Matt felt disturbed and tried not betray his feelings as the young Vicky was perceived and not perceived to be moving.
Principal Andrews made the introductions and Matt nodded back. She was to be his chaperone for the day. They had the same classes and she was to show him the ropes so to speak. The ins and outs of the school. The locations of their classes.
He recognized her. It was hard not to. The way her appearance seemed to shift fluidly almost. The petite and skinny brunette ever so lightly had a big bust and blonde hair with curves added when she seemed to shift before his eyes. Like watching a film but each frame had a different person.
Matt didn’t say anything about it. Even if he did he would only be acknowledging his crazed state, if he had one. If.
Unlike an obedient puppy dog he got up in a slow and awkward fashion and followed behind her as his oddly disproportionate frame allowed. Causing her a note of concern for some reason. As if she was seeing something she shouldn’t have been….Or he was just weird. And Matt could admit to himself he was just weird. Part of his charm, he would jest about it at times. Not that he had many people to jest to now.
As If It Were Kismet Ch. 5
Following Vicky into the hall off to their first class was simple. She exchanged small talk and he slightly smiled as if to obviously suggest he was just being polite.
Inside his head, Matt was trying to figure out if he was having a psychotic break. The way Vicky looked kept changing and he looked at the other people around him and they stayed the same.
He was searching his mind as they were walking. And thus he wasn’t paying attention to where he was looking and so fell to his face forward over his feet seemingly out of nowhere.
A series of laughs erupted as it sunk in that he was obviously tripped. Like in prison this was a challenge to his superiority. If he let this pass he would be mocked and sneered at by this same group of boys. He wouldn’t walk to them like he was going to do nothing like a little bitch.
In a rage he turned and punched the stomach of the first face he saw. Some typical blonde haired wannabe jock. He knew from experience not to aim for the ribs. Instead he needed to aim for where he thought the belly button was.
Yells and screams blindly echoed around him as his after the punch he followed up his elbow of the opposite arm slamming into the face of the jock. Harder than a fist, the elbow struck the jock’s jaw and seemingly dropped him against a locker. Just in time to catch an errant and soft punch to the nose that sure enough hurt but did little to slow him down as his dad had taught him to fight through the pain. Blood and scars happened. They were a natural consequence of life to a man.
Taking the punch and falling further into his red state Matt headbutted the punch thrower before another guy arm bared his throat from behind. Which he managed to get his grip on the arm over a letterman jacked and jerk the unprepared boy to the side with him still latched on.
A few feet away from the lockers Matt knew his only chance was to jump and push off the lockers and knock the boy to the ground and so he did. He heard a thunk of the boy’s skull bouncing off the ground and he turned to pull out of the grapple.
The beatings he had taken from his father, the grapples, being choked unconscious. Had prepared him for fighting little bitches who didn’t know what a fight was. It wasn’t gay porn with rabbit punch fists flying.
Blood was running down his face and the pain started to hit him as the threats had been eliminated. Only then did he remember to breathe. Taking breathes as Vicky came up to him with tissues and took a hold of his nose.
“Owww owww owww what the fuck my nose could be broken.” He said to Vicky as she pulled his head up and back.
“It’s ok Carl. It’s done.” Matt tried to look to see who Vicky was talking to. It was a boy taller than his 5’9” by more than a small margin. The boy eyed him bored and annoyed before speaking. “What happened here?” An unoriginal line but one Matt couldn’t be a smart aleck about. “Well you see there was an outbreak of tripping and we all tripped over my dick. It happens.” Matt was about to laugh when Vicky seemed to pull up while still gripping his nose causing Matt no small amount of pain which he audibly evidenced.
Vicky spoke in a tone he wasn’t expecting. As if she was accustomed to issuing orders. “Keep Iris away from the hall till we sanitize the site. We have blood from at least three people contaminating the site. And have Jake bring me a spare jacket and shirt for this moron.”
Carl seemed to acknowledge her orders and seemed to blink away. Maybe the punch hit harder than he expected. He had no time to wonder as Vick took her hand away from his and pushed him against the lockers. With ease he had not been expecting from her form and stature.
Before he could respond Vicky licked his blood covered chin and then his lips and spoke to him. “Focus on me you little blood bag.” Her tone had an annoyed yet feminine sneer.
“Look into my eyes. Look at me. You belong to me. You are just another food source in a collection of food sources.” Her eyes were a beautiful hazel Matt thought. Almost green. Pretty like jewels in some old treasure collections. The eyes he could get lost in before kissing her. Finally Vicky was just a slight and petite brunette and he thought she was beautiful.
She would make a hell of a girlfriend. Some cute thing he could see laying on the beach in Florida on their sides laughing and smiling before trading light kisses while hands wandered innocently. Before his mind could drift further he felt her lips on his. It took him a second to mentally grasp the kiss but his arms were around her back as her hands were at his sides. His eyes reflexively closed as he saw hers close.
It was ineffable to Matt. Beyond words, what was happening. The kiss, the moments beforehand. The way his brain tickled with electricity and gentle warmth. He had never had a kiss like this and he had traded more than a few kisses with at least a few girls.
The kiss was like a warm bath with his consciousness slipping beneath the surface. Their lips only parted to try new angles and approaches as Matt struggled to take in breath. It was a moment he could have stayed trapped in for….he didn’t know. But a curt throat clearing by another girl pulled them out of the moment.
The girl was taller than Vicky. Blonde. With slight curves. Vicky addressed her bewildered and gobsmacked, and perhaps a bit embarrassed. “Tina?”
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Matt tore through the brush, blind in the dark. He didn’t care where he was going. He only knew he needed to be elsewhere. Far from here.
Behind him a creature howled that shocked his mind. It’s form was cruel and dangerous, though female. Nothing like the young woman she had once been. Nothing but a girl, a small and slight female.
It’s guttural growls and howls only grew closer as Matt tried to pick between seeing where he was going and getting away. The few times he looked he caught sight of the creature behind him. Hopping through the air with a speed that told him he was being toyed with. As if he were a mouse being played with by a cat.
But the reflex in him to run kept him going. His adrenaline going as hard as it could. The tightness and burning in his core tensing and locking up as his legs felt like there were being burned from within while taking on more of a heaviness.
His lungs were starting to betray him as he tried to gulp big breaths of air but only rapid and shallow breaths were all that he could manage. His brain was starting to burn….and then he was falling.
Falling down the side of a hill he saw the creature dart in a spring towards him, imperceivably fast almost. Catching him in mid air it seemed.
Managing to wrap its body around him and cushion his impact against the ground as they rolled. His mind barely took in what was happening during the roll. Only starting to understand what was happening once they were still.
The creature's triple D-cup breasts were unmistakably pressed hard against his back as he laid facing up at the night sky.
For a few seconds the world stilled and the needle light pain hitting the center of his brain took over for the cooking heat his brain had felt. His whole body felt heavy and reluctant to move.
Even if he could have really moved, a dull ache came over his limbs making them feel stilled and trapped as if by immeasurable amounts of sand that had engulfed him.
Slowly the arms holding him started to move. Moving so the creature's hands could start exploring him. Causing Matt to unstoppably let out a pathetic moan that made him go cold inside as hands lifted up his shirt and started to touch his exposed stomach and then his chest.
He would have whimpered so pathetically had he not still been in the depths of terror.
As its hands felt and groped his pecs he tried to situp as if to get away. For his efforts, his reward was a hand around his throat and a collection snarls and growls against his ear. A beastly, guttural voice spat words at him while somehow holding a feminine tone.
“Don’t move….I don’t know if I can calm down…”
Her words were not helped by her moans in his ear and the subsequent kissing of his ear. The flesh of his ear going between her lips as she moaned and seemed to pant. Releasing it and licking the side of his face with a moist warmth. He could feel its spittle, viscous and coating his flesh where the tongue touched. He could smell something in his saliva. Something that subtly entranced him.
Matt went stock still with fear and the confusion of mixed arousal. He barely perceived her right hand traveling lower on his body. A surprised moan and shudder echoed in the night from Matt’s lips as she took ahold of him. Her hand above his pants but still….stimulating him.
A light squeezing and almost probing of her digits kept him aroused and confused within her grasp. Resigning himself to the strange fate, Matt looked up at the stars as his mind tried not to shatter under the strange maelstrom of events and sensation that had started mere minutes ago.
His mind was only more confused as a slight figure, feminine in build, how it seemed to thunk the ground audibly as she landed on her feet out nowhere. Her knees barely bending under the pressure of the landing. Yet dirt was kicked up anyways and some of it onto Matt. Feeling it pepper his shirt and pants as it fell.
The figure, lit only faintly by moonlight, roared some dark tone Matt could only perceive as a demon as her eyes went bright with a crimson light. A light in the darkness that should not have been. “Let him go you bitch.” Was its words following the roar. Spittle escaping its mouth with faint droplets hit Matt's face.
The creature holding him by his throat and crotch seemed to tighten the grasp of both hands as it roared back. “HE IS MINE!”
The figure paused with a moment's hesitation. He was also her quarry. She had felt his fear without him knowing. His confused arousal. His fear. His terror.
And now he laid at the center of a struggle between two monsters. Unsure of who he wanted to win.
As If It Was Kismet Ch. 1
Matthew Berkshire hadn’t seen his mom in two years. Not that he had seen her much over the last six years.
A messy divorce between messy people and mom’s chaotic want for a life in Alaska had been one of the most…upsetting times in life. Setting him up for so much of what had defined his life thus far but then that had really started two years before he ever turned.
His ear buds were basic and simple. A part of cheap five pack, common for his life as he was known to lose little things. Small things. They had a mix of metal and hard rock playing in them. Some classics, some alternative. Whatever made him feel something, anything. Even if it was hate. Anger. Rage. It was better than feeling numb. Not belonging.
The escalator down to his lone bag to go with his lone carry on showed his mom waiting for him. His had a type, that’s for damn sure. Not that it helped him in the genetics department as he was stuck at 5’9” to go along with his mother’s five foot even as his dad stood six foot. Forever leaving him to feel small, to pale, under his dad’s shadow. Did he ever stand a chance?
The guy next to her with the unkempt former seventies porn stache was “Dave.” He’d met him twice when his mother came and visited him in Florida. To his credit the guy didn’t look annoyed. Kind of concerned kind of which made Matthew want to break his frozen look but he was well practiced. Having removed any note of sadness from his face through much…tribulation.
His mother’s look on her face betrayed a hint of worry as the bruises on his face lightly showed up close. Saying his name was his like a distant echo that belonged to someone else.
Dave cut in and pulled out his right headphone. “What the hell bud, they knock you hard enough to hurt hearing? Your mom’s asking how you are doing.”
Matthew pulled out the other bud and grunted an empty “sorry.”
“You still have bruises after two week? What did they do to you?” His mom’s voice was full of worry. Something he hadn’t heard in….too long. Too long to make him feel anything. To ever make him believe there was any sincerity to her words. To not think her voice and mannerisms were an act. An act by someone who…wasn’t really there.
“It’s only fair. I took a nose. Fractured a couple orbital bones. Left one with having to get his jaw wired shut. And one will never walk right again for what I did to his knee cap.” Matthew said it all with a bored and disinterested tone. Perhaps well rehearsed.
“My man, handing out ass kickings, not bothering to take names.” Dave was quick to be the typical man’s man about it. Matthew wasn’t quite done yet. Lifting up his shirt to expose the right side near his kidney. Revealing a nasty scar from a six inch blade. “Luckily they gave me this first so they could rule it all in self-defense. The fuck didn’t get it in more than inch before I ruined his knee cap and then I took the nose of one of the fucks holding me.” Now he chose to smile keeping the well practiced dead look in his eyes.
No retorts. No questions. Just horrified looks on their faces. As he liked. As he preferred. They could hate him. They could be disgusted by him. But by God they would fear him.
“Well the doc did a good job sewing you up.” Dave commented uncomfortably. “Dissolving sutures. Ain’t they grand.” He smiled again and let it abruptly fall off his face and started walking to the carousel for the baggage claim.
Waiting and making small talk with Dave as his mother stood in silence. He was not the little boy she abandoned. The little boy she left with an angry man. While never hitting him. Left him in constant fear till he turned twelve and just didn’t care anymore. Something snapped. Broke. And he didn’t care if he died. Didn’t care if he stole. Didn’t even care if he killed. He just knew not to get caught. Something left over from his grandfather’s wisdom which came to make more and more sense with each passing year of life since that thing inside him broke.
Finally his bag came around and Dave went to try first to grab it but Dave practically leapt ahead of him. “Is that your grandfather’s rucksack bag?” his mother asked in a perplexed voice.
“Figured it’s been around since Viet Nam. So it’d serve me better than any of the worthless stuff they called luggage.” Dave commented after Matthew’s words. “Well hell yeah I still got mine from Desert Storm. You know the first one.” Dave laughed and Matthew eyed him oddly. Be it in the south or whether it was Alaska, country boys are country boys he guessed.
The car ride to the two people’s house, as Matthew thought of them. Was uneventful and full of vistas he imagined metropolitan types wetting themselves over. At most they meant isolation to him. Furtherness from the world as there were no mountains in Florida. And what mountains he had last seen in another state had been when he was eight. Another life, to Matthew it felt like. A life alien to him.
As If It Was Kismet Ch 2
Dave and his mom’s place was some two story type tucked into a tree line far up an elevated point. It was by no means the highest point in the mountain but it certainly felt up there.
Rocks were where the driveway should have been Matthew thought. Grabbing his backpack and rucksack from Dave’s jeep was no hard thing for him. Matthew was in formidable shape for someone his age, maybe even five years older. He had gotten a mix of fairly big shoulders and arms along with the chest to go for it when compared to most kids his age. A side effect of working out at least twice a day. First thing in the morning, some time in the evening, and the school’s gym when had had a good semester in school before he had to leave Florida.
Dave tried to come up and help him but Matthew walked past him towards the house. His mom was not sure what to make of his demeanor. Matthew was not the sweet kind boy he had once been. But she had been gone from his life essentially for a long time.
Ushering him into the house she cracked some joke he did not hear. He was too busy looking about and seeing a mix of old outdated decorating mixed with the strange and odd flair of his mother. Color contrasting against drab and dated. Like brightly painting over an old home that was falling apart he thought.
“Your room is this way Mattie.” His mom brightly intoned.
Without expressing any interest he followed his mother. Still faced and nonplussed. Just going along with the current. Pushed and pulled with its roll like a piece of driftwood.
The room was simple. A single small bed. A set of rubber weights with a curl bar and barbells. “Your dad said you were into weight lifting so we got you a bunch of stuff. Dave says it looks like his department’s gym almost. The woman’s smile felt very alien to him.
“Thank you. I appreciate it. I’ve got most of my stuff from home.” Matthew starting unpacking his rucksack and pulled out cables of repetitive and mixed colors. A single plastic barbell handle. The ruck sack could be filled with water bottles for added weight during pushups he figured. Remembering a Michael Keaton movie he watched with his dad post-Batman movies where he played a convicted killer using plastic bags filled with water for weights.
Matthew caught movement outside his lone fairly large window that could let him step out onto the roof of the house given its layout.
He saw a number of people running together through what he guessed was the backyard of the property, not that it had any fences to mark boundaries
They wore clothes that looked similar yet different from each other at the same time.”Oh those are the Johnston’s. Really nice bunch of people. Been on the mountain for a long time Dave tells me.”
Matthew looked at the group of people running and noticed the lack of resemblance. “They are related?” Matthew quizzically asked. Seeing a black and possibly a hispanic person amongst the bland looking white people.
“Oh well they are all adopted but for one or two of them…besides the parents of course. The family has a long tradition of taking in orphans they say. Real nice of them to do that don’t you think.”
Matthew looked at his mother and the hosier accent made no sense to him as he arched his left eye brow. Her and his dad were both from Florida. Born and raised. Sure her parents were from New York city but…
Matthew shook his lightly without turning to look at his mother as his vision was grabbed by one of the runners in particular. A girl of moderate height. Soft brunette. A plain beauty he figured with a slim build….and lack of remarkable breasts and rear to make any note of but….girls in general were his type at his age.
She was pretty enough. He couldn’t deny that but he found himself transfixed by her visage.
But the way she turned and looked at him, especially at that distance felt very disconcerting to him. Even if she was smiling like…she was a taste of a bright shiny day. Somehow.
Matthew’s mom noticed the exchange and smiled to herself with closed lips. “Oh that’s Vicky. She’s your age I think. Very sweet girl, who does the charity functions. You know bake sales, blood drives, car washes and the like. I think you should get to know her. Might be good for you.”
A truck horn sounded a couple of beeps in rather succession. “Oh that must be Mack, he said he might come by later this evening but he seems early.”
Matthew’s mother turned and left his room. Leaving Matthew to exchange a few looks with the alluring Vicky as she turned her head away from him to talk to the others in her group and look back at him.
Still Matthew’s left eyebrow was arched. In a way that reminded him of Spock from Star Trek that he and his grandpa used to watch on some streaming service or another.
As he heard ambient chatter elsewhere outside the house he figured to check it out as the alluring sight of Vicky would be around he figured. It was dull to stare at artwork. He was a boy who preferred jet skis and the like. Something he could ride and enjoy immensely. Even if at times it got him stabbed.
As If It Was Kismet Ch 3
Matthew sauntered out of the house and down the rockway that stood in for a driveway.
A few new people had come over from what he could first surmise of the situation. As he got closer it was obvious they were indigenous people. A couple of grown men…and a girl?
She was mousey. Maybe five foot. Hiding behind glasses and a big camo jacket that was far too big for her. It looked made for a grown man and the backwards trucker hat on her head kept her long black a beautiful mess of sorts.
She was cute in a way. A little androgynous but she had a cute energy to her. She reminded him of the more tomboyish Puerto Rican girls he had gotten into back in Florida. Given the deer corpses in the back of the truck….probably more dangerous to play with given the men in her family.
Small chatter passed between the adults when the girl noticed but turned away, trying to hide the tiny hint of a smile.
“Oh Mattie, this is Mack. He works with Dave at the sheriff’s department and John, he’s with fish and wildlife.” Matthew nodded at his mom’s words with some blankness as he looked at the deer the in the back of the pickup truck.
“Gale tells us you hunted with your dad some in Florida and Georgia.” Mack offered with a light hearted laugh camouflaged by his big simple and cheery but husky way he spoke.
Looking in the back of the truck he spoke. “We used lever action thirty-thirties and Mosin Nagants in seven-six-two-fifty-four-rimmed.” Mack and John whistled in an exaggerated fashion. Leaving Matthew to wonder if they were mocking him.
Mack spoke. “Well we just used thirty-odd-six in a custom gussied Garand.” That caught Matthew’s attention. “You have a Garand…” Matthew finally demonstrated interest in anything. “My dad has an SVT-40 and a Hakim 8mm but he always wanted a Garand but was too cheap to buy one.”
Gale, his mother, chimed in loudly. “Oh his Dad loved his guns but was such an odd duck about how he bought or why he bought them. Never made sense to me how he wasn’t a collector but he didn’t get the latest and greatest.” Gale laughed uncomfortably. At least it seemed that way to Matthew.
Matthew pointed to the girl with an underhanded pointing hand. “And who is this? A cute little mute mouse or does she have a name?” Dave and the other men laughed.
Mack again spoke. “Well you people call her Rebecca, she’s my adopted daughter.” Matthew was taken aback by what he heard. “You people?”
Rebecca kindly spoke with a soft but almost melodic voice as she struggled to maintain eye contact. “White people or rather not members of our tribe. It’s just easier to appease the colonizer kind of thing. Borrowed from when the Jesuit missionaries chased us up here.”
Mack stepped in. “It’s just easier to have white people names than have them try to say our tribal names. And we don’t want them shortening or Anglicising our names kind of thing.” Rebecca stepped back into the conversation cutting off her adopted father. “It’s an insult to our history basically.”
Matthew cocked his head sideways raising his eyebrows shortly before letting them drop. “Well as soon as I’m eighteen I’m out of here and back to Florida so I’m a sort of involuntary colonizer of sorts. So I won’t be taking any of your land from you. The Seminoles on the other hand are still shit out of luck.”
Rebecca’s smile caused Matthew to reflexively smile. Mack made the moment more awkward. “See Becca, I told you someone off the reservation would like you some. You just have to be creative.” Mack laughed in a chiding manner…Matthew presumed. He sensed that he was the butt of some kind of cultural joke. Like marrying a white guy was some sort of insult or mark of shame. That kind of thing.
Rebecca turning away from him was not something he had been expecting. Her then getting in the truck in a huff left the group in a silence for a moment.
Dave spoke to break the awkward silence. “Well just bring the truck to work on Monday and leave it for me to grab up.” Mack acknowledged Dave and they started to get off as Rebecca looked at Matthew for another instance. Matthew couldn’t look away for some reason as the two seemed to lock eyes for an instance.
Till Vicky and family seemed to come jogging down the road. While Matthew’s eyes diverted from Rebecca’s. Hers did not till she realized he was looking elsewhere. And her vision found Vicky and what had been a hint of smile on her face turned glum and disappointed.
Matthew did not look away from the vision of Vicky but instead of a starry eyed fool looking longingly. It was a baffled look. Well baffled for him, with his eyes drawn narrow and night with a focus.
There was something about her…he couldn’t quite put a name too. The way she appeared to him. One second brunette. The next second blonde or blonde like. As if the color appeared in her air and disappeared in fractions of seconds. Much the same way her body almost seemed to…shift…very subtly…smoothly. A nicer bum. Larger breasts. And then back to a simple and plain form. Feminine no doubt. Attractive. But not so…remarkable.
As If It Was Kismet Ch 4
The next two days passed without incident. Nothing of any real substance or challenge to note.
Matthew got settled somewhat and started working out almost immediately. Exploring around the woods but Dave told him not to go far. Especially without a hunting rifle. Dave had left a simple semi-auto Winchester out for him. His bear gun as Dave referred to it with its four round magazine. But Matt figured till he got some practice with the rifle to leave it alone. He made a hiking stick like his grandpa taught him and treated it over a low fire. He would take some electrical tape for the end his hand would grip around. Plenty enough to ward off anything smaller than a bear he figured.
The ride to school was a pain in the neck but simple enough. Dave would let him use a clunker pickup truck he had laying around. It wasn’t pretty but it would get him to and from. Even if it was from the eighties and still backfired on occasion. But for now Dave and his mom took him on their way to the sheriff’s department.
It wasn’t much of a school. It wanted to be modern but its fifties original construction was very obvious. It serviced the pipeline families and familys’ of fisherman who worked the seasons in between their time at the pipeline.
Matt was to report to the principal for some reason Dave and his mom wouldn’t share. Which annoyed him but he figured it was to read him the law of land. Small towns with their big views of the outside world and like.
Dressed in jeans, a grey sweatshirt under a light jacket with steel toed boots set him more apart then he expected. His buzzed head didn’t help matters. Already he was feeling like a stranger in a strange land but he was quite strange after all. And he liked it that way. Normal people were so pathetically disappointing to him.
A secretary or assistant or some such led him to the principal’s office. Where it reeked of real wood that was old and fabric and upholstery that needed to be updated for the last twenty years, Matt figured.
“This is Matthew Berkshire, Principal Andrews.” The man was turned with his back to the door and he was quick to wave her off as he turned her around.
He was an older man. Fat and large. Tall with a body built like he had once been fit and a demeanour of annoyed and irate already as he fixed Matt with a scowl and look of disgust. Another worthless government whore. Matt thought to himself. His father and his grandfather had bestowed unto him a natural disrespect for government workers and the figures that wore unjustified authority as a shield but pretended the weight of the state was not at their back ready to crush all who resisted. Little figures of valor pretending to be mighty and alone but acting with the tyranny of the state and all the backing.
“Mr. Berkshire, please sit down.” His tone wasn’t unusually hostile, just gruff. As if he had better things to do.
Matt complied and took a seat in the chair while maintaining a friendly facade. Not everyone was an enemy. And not everyone needed to be an enemy. Even if anybody could be any enemy. There was no reason to make enemies you didn’t have to. Another of his grandfather’s bastardised wisdoms.
“Well I looked over you file and you have quite the history Mr. Berkshire.” Matt resisted qiuping back a joke. Instead he waited for Principal Andrews to continue as he remained nonplussed and looking as if he felt no need to respond. A simple head tilt with dead eyes looking back at the principle as if he was not even there would suffice.
Matt’s reaction or lack of a reaction rather made Principal Andrews only narrow his eyes with examination. He was not used to a kid not responding to him. Especially with his gruff and hard act going on.
“Well by all accounts you moved here after some problems at your last school. A fight broke out and you did some real harm to your fellow students it appears.” Of course, he would take the side of the perpetrators. School administrators always did. Especially when they weren’t white. Just a fact of the times. Cowardice and pathetic mediocrity was the way they leaned, like good government workers sucking the dick of Big Daddy government. Worthless whores.
Matt chose to reply. “Oh you mean the criminals that stabbed me. Got arrested at the hospital and then pled to felonies. Yeah Florida, with the American counties are good like that.” Principal Andrews went real still. No shame. No fear. No penitence. He didn’t like that.
“Well be it as it may Mr. Berkshire we don’t tolerate that kind of behaviour here…” Matt cut him off responding with a deadpan tone. “You mean self-defense meant to save one’s own life while the cowardly and pathetic school workers look on with zero interest but to keep their money rolling in and will allow known gang members with records of violent acts and crimes that should have them expelled many times over, where in certain Democrat counties such cowardice and idiocy empowered a couple school shooters?”
Principal Andrews looked at the Matt with a note of disgust. “Look here Mr. Berkshire, your beliefs matter not one bit here. This isn’t Florida. We don’t like our way of life being disrupted by outside agitators who have problems with authority.”
Matt did his best not to roll his eyes and let the older fat man drone own as he dead-stared him. Lifeless and without emotion.
The man came to a finish and Matt spoke up without having listened to him or paid him any attention. “Great now that’s taken care of. Can I please get to class and finish my sentence of two years at your wonderful school?”
Principal Andrews huffed and snorted before calling in Vicky. Vicky stood in the corner after entering with a quiet and seamless presence. Matt felt disturbed and tried not betray his feelings as the young Vicky was perceived and not perceived to be moving.
Principal Andrews made the introductions and Matt nodded back. She was to be his chaperone for the day. They had the same classes and she was to show him the ropes so to speak. The ins and outs of the school. The locations of their classes.
He recognized her. It was hard not to. The way her appearance seemed to shift fluidly almost. The petite and skinny brunette ever so lightly had a big bust and blonde hair with curves added when she seemed to shift before his eyes. Like watching a film but each frame had a different person.
Matt didn’t say anything about it. Even if he did he would only be acknowledging his crazed state, if he had one. If.
Unlike an obedient puppy dog he got up in a slow and awkward fashion and followed behind her as his oddly disproportionate frame allowed. Causing her a note of concern for some reason. As if she was seeing something she shouldn’t have been….Or he was just weird. And Matt could admit to himself he was just weird. Part of his charm, he would jest about it at times. Not that he had many people to jest to now.
As If It Were Kismet Ch. 5
Following Vicky into the hall off to their first class was simple. She exchanged small talk and he slightly smiled as if to obviously suggest he was just being polite.
Inside his head, Matt was trying to figure out if he was having a psychotic break. The way Vicky looked kept changing and he looked at the other people around him and they stayed the same.
He was searching his mind as they were walking. And thus he wasn’t paying attention to where he was looking and so fell to his face forward over his feet seemingly out of nowhere.
A series of laughs erupted as it sunk in that he was obviously tripped. Like in prison this was a challenge to his superiority. If he let this pass he would be mocked and sneered at by this same group of boys. He wouldn’t walk to them like he was going to do nothing like a little bitch.
In a rage he turned and punched the stomach of the first face he saw. Some typical blonde haired wannabe jock. He knew from experience not to aim for the ribs. Instead he needed to aim for where he thought the belly button was.
Yells and screams blindly echoed around him as his after the punch he followed up his elbow of the opposite arm slamming into the face of the jock. Harder than a fist, the elbow struck the jock’s jaw and seemingly dropped him against a locker. Just in time to catch an errant and soft punch to the nose that sure enough hurt but did little to slow him down as his dad had taught him to fight through the pain. Blood and scars happened. They were a natural consequence of life to a man.
Taking the punch and falling further into his red state Matt headbutted the punch thrower before another guy arm bared his throat from behind. Which he managed to get his grip on the arm over a letterman jacked and jerk the unprepared boy to the side with him still latched on.
A few feet away from the lockers Matt knew his only chance was to jump and push off the lockers and knock the boy to the ground and so he did. He heard a thunk of the boy’s skull bouncing off the ground and he turned to pull out of the grapple.
The beatings he had taken from his father, the grapples, being choked unconscious. Had prepared him for fighting little bitches who didn’t know what a fight was. It wasn’t gay porn with rabbit punch fists flying.
Blood was running down his face and the pain started to hit him as the threats had been eliminated. Only then did he remember to breathe. Taking breathes as Vicky came up to him with tissues and took a hold of his nose.
“Owww owww owww what the fuck my nose could be broken.” He said to Vicky as she pulled his head up and back.
“It’s ok Carl. It’s done.” Matt tried to look to see who Vicky was talking to. It was a boy taller than his 5’9” by more than a small margin. The boy eyed him bored and annoyed before speaking. “What happened here?” An unoriginal line but one Matt couldn’t be a smart aleck about. “Well you see there was an outbreak of tripping and we all tripped over my dick. It happens.” Matt was about to laugh when Vicky seemed to pull up while still gripping his nose causing Matt no small amount of pain which he audibly evidenced.
Vicky spoke in a tone he wasn’t expecting. As if she was accustomed to issuing orders. “Keep Iris away from the hall till we sanitize the site. We have blood from at least three people contaminating the site. And have Jake bring me a spare jacket and shirt for this moron.”
Carl seemed to acknowledge her orders and seemed to blink away. Maybe the punch hit harder than he expected. He had no time to wonder as Vick took her hand away from his and pushed him against the lockers. With ease he had not been expecting from her form and stature.
Before he could respond Vicky licked his blood covered chin and then his lips and spoke to him. “Focus on me you little blood bag.” Her tone had an annoyed yet feminine sneer.
“Look into my eyes. Look at me. You belong to me. You are just another food source in a collection of food sources.” Her eyes were a beautiful hazel Matt thought. Almost green. Pretty like jewels in some old treasure collections. The eyes he could get lost in before kissing her. Finally Vicky was just a slight and petite brunette and he thought she was beautiful.
She would make a hell of a girlfriend. Some cute thing he could see laying on the beach in Florida on their sides laughing and smiling before trading light kisses while hands wandered innocently. Before his mind could drift further he felt her lips on his. It took him a second to mentally grasp the kiss but his arms were around her back as her hands were at his sides. His eyes reflexively closed as he saw hers close.
It was ineffable to Matt. Beyond words, what was happening. The kiss, the moments beforehand. The way his brain tickled with electricity and gentle warmth. He had never had a kiss like this and he had traded more than a few kisses with at least a few girls.
The kiss was like a warm bath with his consciousness slipping beneath the surface. Their lips only parted to try new angles and approaches as Matt struggled to take in breath. It was a moment he could have stayed trapped in for….he didn’t know. But a curt throat clearing by another girl pulled them out of the moment.
The girl was taller than Vicky. Blonde. With slight curves. Vicky addressed her bewildered and gobsmacked, and perhaps a bit embarrassed. “Tina?”