#budgeting for tech stack

[dbajaj48]

From Startup to Scale: A No-Nonsense Guide for Real-World Growth

Let's be real, choosing a tech stack is like picking what to eat at an all-inclusive resort. There are so many options, and while it might seem tempting to just pile everything onto your plate, you know that's a recipe for disaster. Similarly, you can't just pick every trendy tool out there for your business. If you do, you might end up with a bloated, dysfunctional mess that doesn't do anything particularly well.

The goal here is to help you pick the right tech stack for your business, allowing it to scale efficiently without giving you heartburn. Whether you're a startup just figuring things out or an enterprise looking to streamline, this guide is for you.

The Tech Stack Basics: What Are We Even Talking About?

Let's get one thing straight: a "tech stack" is not a literal pile of technology (though that would be cool). It's the tools, programming languages, and frameworks your business uses to build and run applications. Think of it as your company's digital toolbox. And just like with real tools, you don't use a chainsaw to assemble IKEA furniture—so you need to pick the right tools for the job.

Your tech stack is always divided into two parts

Front-end

This is the stuff your customers see and interact with. It's like the shiny chrome on a sports car—it looks nice, but if it doesn't perform well, people will quickly notice.

Common tools: React, Vue.js, HTML, CSS

Back-end

This is the engine of your operation. The invisible stuff powers your business and keeps everything running smoothly.

Common tools: Node.js, Python, Ruby on Rails

But enough with the definitions—let's get into how you can pick the right tech stack for your business. Spoiler alert: there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

Start with your Business needs (not your cousin's tips)

It's tempting to go with whatever your cousin or that random guy on LinkedIn is raving about, but let's be honest—just because a tech tool works for them doesn't mean it's the right fit for you. Would you wear your cousin's jeans? No. So don't copy their tech stack, either.

First things first: what are your actual business needs? Are you a startup trying to build the next Uber for cat-sitting (we've all thought about it), or are you an established company looking to streamline operations? Here's what you need to consider

Your Growth Goals

Are you planning for world domination or just happy to expand locally for now? The tech stack you choose should support both your short-term needs and long-term aspirations.

Your Industry

What industry are you in? If you're in e-commerce, you'll want tools that make online transactions easy and secure. In healthcare, you need technologies that comply with privacy laws like HIPAA. And if you're in finance, good luck with that.

Your Team's Skillset

Who will be using this tech stack? If your team is fluent in Python, don't make them suddenly learn Ruby on Rails unless you want a mutiny on your hands. Pick tools that fit your team's existing skillset—or be prepared to invest in serious training.

Think About Scalability (Because Growth Happens Faster Than You Think)

One minute, you're a cozy little startup, and the next thing you know, your app has gone viral, and your server has crashed more times than you can count. Growth is exciting, but if your tech stack can't handle it, you will have problems. Big ones. Scalability is the magic word here. You need a tech stack that evolve with your business, not one that buckles under pressure. When considering scalability, here is what you need to know

Cloud-Based Solutions

Hosting your infrastructure on cloud platforms like AWS or Microsoft Azure can give you the flexibility to scale up or down based on demand. It's like adding more chairs to the table when unexpected guests arrive—except, in this case, thousands of users are hitting your platform all at once.

Performance

Some programming languages and frameworks are great for large-scale operations. If you're dealing with a high volume of transactions or users, choose something built for speed. Node.js, for example, is known for handling multiple connections simultaneously, making it great for real-time applications like chat apps or online games.

Database Choices

Your database is where all the magic (or chaos) happens. For startups, a simple database like MySQL or PostgreSQL might be enough. Still, as you grow, you'll need something that can handle larger data loads—think MongoDB for non-relational data or Oracle for enterprise solutions.

Don't Forget About Integration (Because No One Likes a Silo)

Ever tried to put together a jigsaw puzzle where none of the pieces fit? That's what it feels like when your tech stack doesn't integrate well with your existing systems. And trust me, nothing grinds productivity to a halt faster than a bunch of disjointed tools that refuse to work together.

When choosing your tech stack, consider how it will integrate with the tools you already use. Does your CRM need to interact with your email marketing platform? Are you planning on syncing your sales data with your accounting software? The right integrations can save you hours of manual work—and possibly your sanity.

Here's the secret sauce: APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). They're like the universal translators of the tech world, helping different tools communicate with each other. When evaluating a new tool, check if it has an API that plays nicely with your other systems.

Example: HubSpot is a great all-in-one marketing platform that integrates with dozens of other tools. HubSpot's smooth integrations can make life much easier if you're already using a CRM or email marketing service.

Budgeting for your Tech Stack (Spoiler Alert: It's going to cost way more than you Thought)

Let's talk about money. Every business has a budget—unless you're backed by a billionaire who's just in it for the fun, in which case, please introduce me. For the rest of the world, picking a tech stack means balancing performance, scalability, and cost. You don't want to go broke paying for shiny new tools that only make things marginally better. Here's the deal: open-source technologies like React or Node.js are great because they're free. Yes, free! But there's a catch-free doesn't always mean zero cost. You must still consider maintenance, updates, and the cost of developers who can work with these tools.

The Airbnb Approach for cost saving

Take Airbnb, for example. The company used Ruby on Rails for its web platform in its early days. Rail is an open-source framework that helped Airbnb get started without sinking too much money into licensing fees. As the business grew, the team heavily invested in infrastructure and switched to React for the front end to handle the scaling needs of their user base. The lesson here? Start small with cost-effective solutions, and be prepared to invest in your tech stack as you grow.

Now, let's talk about enterprise-level tools. These often come with hefty licensing fees. If you're considering Salesforce or Oracle, know you're entering premium territory. These tools provide advanced features, but they come at a price. If you're a small business, this might not make sense yet—but for larger operations, these solutions can pay off in the long run by streamlining processes and reducing human error.

Shopify's Early Tech Stack Struggles

Shopify initially relied on PHP and MySQL to power its platform, which worked fine when serving smaller e-commerce stores. But as it scaled, it ran into performance issues with large traffic spikes. Shopify then transitioned to Ruby on Rails and focused on horizontal scaling to handle requests more efficiently. The learning is that budgeting for future growth and tech debt will save you headaches later.

Make sure your Stack is secure (or pay the price later)

We've all seen those scary headlines: "Massive Data Breach Exposes Millions of User Accounts." No one wants to be the next headline, especially when the damage to your reputation (and your wallet) can be severe. Security must stick in your mind when choosing a tech stack.

Some technologies are more secure than others. For instance, large enterprises often favor Java for its robust security features. Similarly, Python has excellent libraries for encryption and data security.

But security isn't just about picking a tool; it's about implementing the right practices. Ensure your developers regularly update your tech stack, apply security patches, and follow best practices like two-factor authentication (2FA) and encryption for sensitive data.

Target's Massive Data Breach

Remember Target's massive data breach in 2013? Hackers were able to access 40 million credit card numbers just because of a vulnerability in their network access system. They may have avoided that disaster with more secure protocols and better monitoring practices. Don't be like Target.

Keep an Eye on Trends, But Don't Chase Every Shiny New Tool

The tech world is always changing. Every week, a new "next big thing" promises to revolutionize how we do business. Blockchain, quantum computing, AI, Web3—it's easy to feel FOMO when you hear about these groundbreaking technologies. But just because something is trendy doesn't mean it's the right fit for your business.

The Slack Boom

Look at Slack. It became the go-to communication tool almost overnight, pushing out older tools like email and Skype. It was not only because it was shiny and new. It was because it effectively solved a pain point for businesses, making communication faster and more collaborative. However, not every tool has a lasting impact, like Slack, so pick your tech wisely.

That said, you want to pay attention to trends. In an industry where innovation is key, like fintech or healthcare, you may need to adopt new technologies faster than others to stay competitive. The trick is to strike a balance—stay current without feeling like you must overhaul your tech stack every six months.

The Talent Factor (because even the best Tech is useless without the right people)

You could have the most advanced, scalable, and secure tech stack on the planet, but you're sunk if no one on your team knows how to use it. When choosing your tech stack, consider the talent pool. Can your current developers work with this stack? If not, are you willing to invest in training or hire new developers specializing in those tools?

Netflix's Engineering Talent Strategy

Everybody knows it: Netflix hires the best engineering talent to manage its complex tech stack, which includes everything from Java and Node.js to Kubernetes and AWS. By focusing on hiring top-notch developers, Netflix ensures that their tech infrastructure runs smoothly, scales efficiently, and adapts to new trends.

But let's be real: hiring top tech talent is tough, especially if you're not on Netflix. Tha's why choosing a tech stack that aligns with your team's existing skills is smart. If your team is well-versed in JavaScript, don't force them to learn Python unless there's a compelling reason to switch. You'll save time and money and avoid unnecessary headaches.

Future-proofing your Tech Stack (because the future is coming whether you're ready or not)

Ah, the future. It's unpredictable, exciting, and a little terrifying. When choosing your tech stack, you want to pick tools that will grow with you and adapt to future innovations. No one wants to be stuck with a tech stack that becomes obsolete in two years.

Adobe's Move to the Cloud!

Take Adobe, for example. A few years ago, they shifted from selling standalone software (like Photoshop) to offering Adobe Creative Cloud. This switch to a subscription-based model helped them scale and ensured they could keep up with the industry's shift to cloud computing. They might have fallen behind if they had stuck with the old model.

So, how do you future-proof your tech stack? Look for tools that are modular and flexible. Think of Microservices architecture as one that allows different parts of your system to scale independently. That way, when one part of your app becomes a runaway success (fingers crossed!), you won't need to rebuild your entire system to handle the load.

Concluding Thoughts: The Tech Stack Balancing Act

Choosing the right tech stack balances meeting your current needs, planning for future growth, and monitoring costs. But with the right approach, you can build a scalable tech stack that's secure, and ready to handle whatever comes your way. Remember, it's not about picking the shiniest or most popular tools—it's about finding what works for you and your team.

So, move forward and start building that tech stack! And if you ever get overwhelmed, remember that even Amazon started as a small online bookstore with a simple tech setup. They scaled, and you can, too!

We can put you on track!

Feeling a little overwhelmed by your tech stack choices? Don't worry—we're here to help. Contact our team today for a free consultation, and let's build the perfect stack for your business's future growth.

[riboism]

she's my collar

》 pairing: assistant! k.ys x CEO! fem reader

》 wc: 5.3k

》 plot: For three years, Kang Yeosang was the quiet, obedient assistant to one of the most powerful women in tech—until she fired him with a cold, impersonal email. Drunk and furious, he confronts her at a bar, expecting to see the same ruthless CEO he once feared. Instead, he finds a woman exhausted by control, desperate to let someone else take over. Now, she’s offering him that power. Yeosang has spent years following orders—but can he step up and be the one giving them? And what happens when surrendering control turns into something neither of them can resist?

》 content: babygirl (2024) inspired, office sex, power dynamics, pet names (puppy), humiliation kink, submissive reader, face-fucking, shoe-grinding, cumplay, smut, comedy, this was written around Christmas time so it’s set around that time as well, also set in NYC

》 playlist: she's my collar- gorrilaz and kali uchis, leash- sky ferreira, crack baby- mitski, the perfect girl- mareux, closer- nine inch nails

Yeosang stared at his laptop screen, the faint glow of the monitor illuminating his face while all the color drained from it. His hands trembled slightly on the keyboard, his breathing growing shallow and uneven. Each word on the screen struck him like a dagger. He reread the message as if repetition might change its meaning.

Subject: Employment Termination

Dear Mr. Kang,

We regret to inform you that, due to recent budget cuts and ongoing concerns about your performance, we have made the difficult decision to terminate your employment with ChromaTech.

Please arrange to return all company property, including devices and ID badges, to our office as soon as possible. Alternatively, we can schedule a FedEx pickup from your home.

Your final paycheck will be processed and deposited later this week.

We appreciate your contributions to ChromaTech and wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Regards, HR

The words blurred together as Yeosang's vision clouded, his mind racing to make sense of it all. Performance concerns? He clenched his fists, trying to suppress the surge of humiliation and anger that coursed through him.

This wasn’t just a job to him—it was stability, routine, a cornerstone of the life he’d painstakingly built through hard work and commitment. Now it was gone, reduced to a cold, impersonal email that left no room for explanation, no chance to plead his case.

Yeosang let his head fall into his hands, the faint whir of the laptop's fan echoing in the room. It all felt surreal to him like he woke up to find the ground had shifted beneath his feet, leaving him dangling over a dark abyss.

He looked over at his digital calendar, every hour clogged up with reminders, appointments, and deadlines for the next month and a half, all completely useless now. For the first time in years, he had no idea what he was supposed to do next.

The rest of the day passed in a hazy blur. Yeosang drifted from room to room in his cramped East Village apartment, his gaze occasionally landing on the precarious stacks of Amazon boxes littering the floor. A pang of regret twisted in his chest. He’d splurged on gifts for his friends, family, and—most indulgently—himself during the holidays, telling himself it was fine to celebrate, that he deserved all the latest new tech and shiny sneakers. Now, staring at his dwindling savings, the extravagance felt like a slap in the face. Great timing.

After scheduling the FedEx pickup and stuffing his work belongings into a battered cardboard box, he tossed it into the corner, out of sight but never out of mind. Every motion felt mechanical, his thoughts distant and dulled. He couldn’t sit in this suffocating silence anymore, couldn’t let the reality of his situation consume him.

Tomorrow was Thursday. No work, no obligations. Now he had all the time in the world and no idea what to do with it.

Fuck it, he thought. If life wanted to kick him while he was down, then he’d kick back, even if it meant getting obliterated in the process. Grabbing his coat, he made a decision. Tonight, he wasn’t going to sit in his misery. He was going to hit the fanciest bar he could find and drink himself into oblivion, maybe even pick up a cute girl to take home. Consequences could wait until tomorrow.

⸻

Yeosang slouched over the bar counter, his cheek nearly pressed against the cool wood, looking more like he was napping than nursing a drink. The Manhattan in his hand felt cold, its amber glow reflecting faintly in his tired eyes. He swirled the liquid absently, his thoughts as muddled as the cocktail before him.

He regretted coming here. Liquor wasn’t his thing—he’d always avoided it, telling himself he needed to stay sharp for work. But the truth was simpler: alcohol made him sleepy. One drink, and he’d be nodding off like some human embodiment of the Sleepytime Bear. There’s no way any girl would want to go home with him like this. 

And yet, here he was, sipping on a cocktail he’d never had before tonight, all in the name of free will. He’d picked it for no other reason than its price tag—it was one of the most expensive options on the menu. If he was going to spiral, why not spiral in style? The bitterness of the drink soured his tongue, but he kept sipping, his mind already drifting into that hazy, detached state where everything felt just a little less sharp, a little more bearable. It wasn’t the escape he thought it would be, but for now, it was enough.

Yeosang had served you diligently for almost three years, though to him, it felt more like a decade. When he first got the position as Executive Assistant, he’d been thrilled—not for the prestige or the title, but for the hefty paycheck that came with it. A corporate job was soul-crushing, sure, but at least it paid handsomely for the privilege of grinding you into dust.

For three years, he’d been your shadow. He made your coffee just the way you liked it, meticulously scheduled and rescheduled your endless meetings, and trailed after you as you tore through Midtown in your impossibly dainty heels. Somehow, your So Kate pumps made you walk faster than him, even in his worn-out tennis shoes. 

He picked up your dry cleaning, planned your trips down to the minute, and waited bleary-eyed at baggage claim after grueling international flights to haul your overweight suitcases to your hotel room. He booked your dinner reservations at trendy restaurants, juggling waitlists and cancellations like a magician. He prepared your reports and presentation notes, answered your emails, your calls, your texts—every last trivial thing—so the only task left for you was to look polished in your Banana Republic pencil skirt and flash a pretty smile at investors.

To everyone else, you were the epitome of success—the poster child for Women in Tech. An Ivy League graduate at the helm of one of the country’s biggest tech companies, you embodied the impossible standard, all while maintaining a buzzing social life, and an aura of poise that never cracked, no matter how demanding the circumstances. While others juggled, you danced, balancing it all with a grace that seemed almost superhuman. To the outside world, you weren’t just successful—you were aspirational, the kind of woman others admired, envied, and tried to emulate. But to Yeosang, you were a full-time job, a 24/7 whirlwind that consumed everything in its path, leaving him wiped out and drained.

Performance concerns. He knew exactly what that meant.

It had been a few weeks ago, late at night. You were stressed, working overtime in your office, which, of course, meant he had to stay late too. The request wasn’t anything unusual—just your evening coffee: Colombian roast, vanilla creamer, a delicate dusting of cinnamon powder on top. Simple enough.

He’d handed the mug to you with both hands, careful not to spill a drop. Then he lingered, waiting for you to assign something else. But you barely looked up, waving him off with a flick of your fingers. As he turned to leave, his eyes caught your reflection in the glass doors.

That’s when he saw it.

A look of disgust twisted your features as you took a sip, your lips curling ever so slightly in disapproval.

The memory of it hit him like a slap. At first, he hadn’t understood. But back at his desk, it came rushing back, sharp as a pin in his chest. Peppermint mocha.

He’d grabbed the festive creamer that someone had left on the kitchen counter instead of the usual vanilla you liked. It wasn’t intentional—just an absent-minded mistake made after hours of exhaustion. But in your world, there were no small mistakes.

And now, sitting alone at the bar with his life upended, that one moment felt emblematic of everything.

Okay, maybe it wasn’t just the peppermint mocha creamer.

His nerves had always been his downfall, often betraying him in the form of small but noticeable mistakes. A double-booked meeting here, a forgotten reservation there—usually because he was too busy helping you pick out a new pair of Christian Louboutins for your Paris trip, or researching market pricing for an upcoming presentation. There was also that time he missed a few typos in a report you handed to the company heads, which earned him a withering glare in front of the whole boardroom.

But could you really blame him? You treated him like he had six arms, and the ability to teleport with the speed of light when in reality, he was just one man. No matter how hard he worked, it was never enough. If he meticulously completed every task you gave him, you’d point out the smallest flaw. If he preempted your needs, you’d call him presumptuous. Every win felt hollow because you’d always point out what could have been done better. Pleasing you was like chasing a mirage—no matter how close he got, the finish line kept moving farther away.

Still, one thing was certain: the peppermint mocha creamer had been the final straw. A small, almost insignificant mistake in the grand scheme of things, but for you, it had been enough to seal his fate.

Yeosang's ears perked up, his sluggish thoughts snapping into focus at the sound of a familiar voice. He froze, the glass of Manhattan halfway to his lips, as he scanned the dimly lit bar. And then he saw you.

You were tucked into the corner booth, surrounded by a few friends, with a pink cocktail in your hand. The faint hum of laughter carried over the low jazz music, and you looked so relaxed, so carefree. It was as if nothing had happened—as if his world hadn’t just imploded because of you.

A spark of anger flared in his chest, simmering, then growing hotter with each passing second. How could you? How could you throw him away so carelessly and then go out for drinks, laughing and clinking glasses like it was any other night?

The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. He’d done everything for you. Everything. He’d missed his niece’s first recital because you needed him to oversee a last-minute report. He’d skipped Thanksgiving with his family because you insisted on an "urgent" trip to Japan that turned out to be nothing more than a glorified shopping spree. His love life? Nonexistent. How could he have one when you were the only woman in his life, demanding every ounce of his time, energy, and attention?

And now, here you were, sipping cocktails without a care in the world. You didn’t even have the decency to tell him to his face why you let him go. The least you could’ve done was look him in the eye and explain yourself, to acknowledge the years he gave you, the sacrifices he made.

Yeosang clenched his jaw, his grip tightening around the glass in his hand. He felt the weight of all those buried resentments rising to the surface, demanding release. For the first time in three years, he wasn’t going to stay silent.

Yeosang drained the last of his Manhattan, the liquid fire burning its way down his throat as if fueling his decision. The warmth spread through his chest, blurring the sharp edges of his hesitation. When he saw your friends stand to leave, laughing as they hugged you goodbye, he seized the moment. The alcohol coursing through his veins muffled his nerves, and the simmering anger propelled him off the barstool.

He approached you with purpose, his heart pounding harder with each step. He’d imagined this confrontation in his head for hours, maybe even years. But when you looked up, your eyes narrowing in confusion, it all dissolved.

“Yeosang?” you said, your tone laced with surprise as you squinted at him. “What are you doing here?”

For a moment, he froze, caught in the trap of your gaze. Then, the words tumbled out before he could stop them, anger surging past his control. 

“An email? Really?” Yeosang spat, his voice cutting through the low hum of the bar. His eyes were dark with anger, his jaw clenched so tightly it looked like it might snap. “You couldn’t even— didn’t even have the decency to say it to my face? Are you that much of a coward?”

You stiffened, the weight of the bar patrons’ stares pressing down on you. You reached out toward him, your voice was soft but firm. “Hey, let’s calm down—”

“Don’t tell me to calm down!“ he roared, his words slurring slightly, his stance wobbly from the alcohol. “Three years! I gave you three years of nonstop devotion, and I don’t even get a proper goodbye? No thank you, no explanation? Do you know how much shit I had to sacrifice for you?”

His voice cracked, his frustration spilling out with every word. “You love parading around with this ‘girlboss,’ fearless woman-in-tech image, but you’re just a scared little girl. Too scared to even look me in the eye and tell me what I did so wrong that you had to hide behind HR to fire me!”

Your cheeks burned with embarrassment as you caught the awkward glances of nearby patrons, their murmured conversations stopping as they pretended not to eavesdrop. You pursed your lips, your patience snapping like a brittle thread. Grabbing his arm roughly, you dragged him out of the bar, ignoring his protests as the cold, snowy air hit both of you like a slap.

“You really wanna do this here?” you hissed, your voice low but sharp, cutting through the quiet of the empty street. “Fine. Let’s do this.”

Yeosang blinked at you, his anger simmering as he swayed on unsteady legs.

“You want to know why you were fired?” You stepped closer, staring him dead in the eye. “You’re a terrible listener. You fuck up my coffee order. You double-book meetings, forgot to confirm reservations, and just last month, you botched the presentation I needed for the board by misspelling half the client names. Do you know how humiliating that was for me?”

Your words hit him like gunshots, but you didn’t stop. “You don’t listen, Yeosang. You never pay attention to detail. I needed someone I could count on, someone who could make my life easier. I’m not asking for much. Instead, I got someone who left me to fix their mistakes half the time!”

Yeosang flinched at your words. But even as they sunk in, indignation burned in his chest. He didn’t believe he deserved this—not for the mistakes you listed, not for everything he had done for you.

He stepped closer, his dark eyes locking onto yours with a mixture of defiance and pain. The cold outside nipped at your skin, but the heat of his breath against your face made you hyperaware of the tension between you.

“I listen,” he said, his voice low but firm. “You’re just impossible to please.”

You opened your mouth to retort, but he didn’t let you.

“I double-booked your meeting one time because you refused to confirm your schedule with the finance group until the last minute. I misspelled the names on that report because the stupid intern—your intern—gave me an Excel sheet with half the names wrong. And reservations? You spring that shit on me while I’m busy walking your dog or picking up your overpriced $20 salad. And the coffee? The fucking coffee? Give me a break!”

His voice cracked with frustration, his breath coming faster now. “You act like I’m some incompetent idiot when all I ever did was clean up after your chaos. Do you know what it’s like working for someone who changes their mind every ten minutes, who expects you to read their mind and be three steps ahead all the time? No matter how much I did, no matter how fast or how perfectly, it was never enough for you! You are a soulless, narcissistic, she-devil, and you love making everyone around you miserable because nothing makes you happy!”

You were nose to nose with him now, the closeness electric and unnerving. Yeosang didn’t realize how close he had gotten until he could see every delicate detail of your face. But he didn’t back away. He didn’t want to.

For the first time, he felt taller, stronger, more in control. He wasn’t just the assistant trailing behind you, fetching your coffee and carrying your bags. Right now, you were the one looking up at him, your confidence faltering under the weight of his hard gaze.

Then, something shifted. His anger, which had been a roaring fire just moments ago, flickered and dimmed. His eyes dropped to your lips, noticing how you worried them slightly between your teeth. The cold had turned them soft, flushed red, quivering as though they couldn’t decide what to say next. He felt the heat in his chest start to dissipate.

“All I ever wanted was to please you, but you never gave me a chance” he murmured, his voice quieter now, almost soft. His words hung between you like a fragile thread, and he didn’t know whether to pull it tighter or let it snap.

His gaze met yours again, and for a brief moment, the tension shifted into something vulnerable. He remained where he stood, towering over you, suddenly feeling exposed, but the weight of his words lingered, heavy and unanswerable in the snowy silence.

You couldn’t explain it, but you liked this side of him. It was the first time you’d seen raw emotion in his face—anger, frustration, passion—it was fascinating. For as long as you’d known Yeosang, he had been quiet as a mouse, his replies clipped and deferential: Yes, ma’am. Right away, ma’am. Always composed, always distant, like a shadow that existed only to serve.

But now? Now he looked alive. His dark eyes burned with intensity, his lips still slightly parted from his impassioned outburst. You hated to admit it, but he looked almost…sexy? The sharp line of his jaw, the way his breath puffed in short bursts against the cold, the heat radiating off him even in the freezing air. And his voice—you liked how deep it gets when he’s mad. You liked it enough to disregard the she-devil comment. It almost delighted you. You liked being talked down to. Not enough people had the balls to do so.

“I can give you another chance…” The words slipped from your lips before you even realized you were speaking. Your tone was quieter, almost sultry, betraying the tug of something entirely outside good judgment. You had nothing but the liquor to blame. You tilted your head slightly, holding his gaze, the weight of your offer hanging heavy in the cold air.

“To please me, that is.”

His breath hitched, his eyes widening slightly before narrowing in confusion. The air between you crackled with tension, unspoken implications simmering beneath the surface. For a moment, you both just stood there, the snow falling softly around you, caught in an electric silence neither of you knew how to break. 

After a moment of hesitation, Yeosang broke the silence. “Okay.” 

⸻

"I'm not sure if I understand," Yeosang said slowly, blinking up at you. "Ma’am." The word left his lips instinctively, like muscle memory, but his voice was hesitant.

You sighed, shifting your weight against the desk, arms crossed. The two of you were alone in your office, the usual hum of the busy workday long gone. The only sound was the soft ticking of the wall clock and the faint buzz of the city outside.

He sat stiffly in your chair, the black leather cool against his back, making him even more uncomfortable. He didn't belong there—you both knew it. But this was an experiment, after all.

You tilted your head, your patience wearing thin. "It’s simple. I’m letting you be the boss today. You just have to tell me what to do, and I’ll do it." Your lips curled slightly. "And don’t call me Ma’am."

Yeosang swallowed, his getting throat dry. Power had never been something he craved. He had spent his life taking orders, following directions, and anticipating needs before they were spoken. Most people in tech burned out quickly, leaving to chase the dream of being in control, of being the one to give orders. That drive had never come to him. It wasn’t in his nature.

And yet, here you were, handing it to him.

His fingers curled against the leather armrests as he searched for something—anything—to say, his mind wading through unfamiliar territory.

"Then what do I call you?" he asked finally, his voice quieter now.

You held his gaze, a small smirk playing at the corner of your lips.

"Anything you want."

Yeosang mulled over your words, his mind scrambling to process what was happening. Call you anything he wanted? Tell you to do whatever he wanted? It was the kind of fantasy teenage boys dreamed about, yet his mind was a complete blank.

You sighed, exasperated by his hesitation. "Can I give you a suggestion?" You asked, stepping closer.

He nodded, swallowing hard, the words still stuck in his throat.

You leaned in slightly, your voice dipping just enough to make the hairs on the back of his neck stand. "Ask me to get on my knees."

Yeosang's breath hitched. His mind latched onto the words, turning them over, considering. Then, slowly, he nodded in agreement.

You chuckled. "You have to say the words, Mr. Kang."

His ears burned. "Oh, right," he said quickly, his voice a little too high, a little too quick. He cleared his throat. "Get on your knees."

The words felt foreign and awkward, but the way you looked at him made something tighten in his chest.

Mr. Kang.

No one had ever called him that before. It was always Yeo, Yeosang, or, on occasion, the intern—his young face fooling half the office into thinking he was some college kid on summer break. But Mr. Kang…He liked the way it sounded coming from your lips.

He sat frozen, watching as you slowly sank to your knees in front of him, settling neatly between his legs. His breath hitched, his pulse hammering against his skin.

You looked up at him, eyes glinting with something—Desire? Amusement? He couldn’t tell, but whatever it was, it left him breathless.

You waited, patiently, expectantly, your lips slightly parted as if anticipating his next command. You almost looked like an obedient little puppy, so much so that he almost called you pup. 

Yeosang exhaled sharply, gripping the leather armrests as his mind raced. He was supposed to be in control. Supposed to be giving the orders. But right now, sitting in your chair, watching you kneel before him, it felt like he was the one unraveling.

“Take off your shirt.” 

He was getting comfortable now. He watched as you unbuttoned your top and discarded it to the side, leaving you only in your lacy black push-up bra. You placed your hands neatly over your lap, patiently awaiting his next request. Yeosang was stunned at how easily and effortlessly you followed his instruction, not showing a single sign of shame as you undressed in front of your junior. He wondered how far he could take it. 

“Take that off too.” 

You unhooked the back part of your bra and tossed it to the side with your blouse, your hands returning to your lap. 

Yeosang let himself relax into your chair, eyes fixed over your soft and bare skin. He bit the skin around his thumb, drinking in your physique. He wanted to touch them, knead them, feel their weight in his hands, but he kept himself restrained. He was growing to like this game and wanted to see what else he could make you do. 

He licked his lips, finally settling on his next request. “Come here.”

You scooted closer to him, your eyes now level with his clothed cock. 

“Kiss it.” 

Without hesitation, you leaned forward, letting your lips trail slow, deliberate kisses along the outline of his growing bulge. You could feel the firmness of his balls from beneath the thick fabric, the desire to see them making your core ache with need. Glancing up through your lashes, you took in the sight of Yeosang already succumbing to the pleasure, his body relaxing into the chair, eyes dark with lust. He was undeniably beautiful, every feature accentuated by the flush of arousal, and the thought of pushing him to the edge, of watching him cum, was a temptation you could hardly resist. 

You began palming his cock, feeling it stiffen just under your touch. “Can I please take it out, Mr. Kang?” You asked in an airless and sultry voice which no doubt made Yeosang feel weak. 

Yeosang gripped the leather armrests and nodded. “Go on.” 

With glee, you unbuttoned his pants and fished out his throbbing cock, his skin feeling warm and tender as you gave it a few lazy strokes. You leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to his blushing tip, the sudden touch making him hiss from his seat. 

You giggled softly at his reaction, continuing to leave a trail of kisses on the sides of his cock, your hand gripping at the base. He felt so hot and heavy in your hand, and you were growing impatient for a taste. 

“Put it in your mouth.” 

You eagerly fed him into your mouth, the weight on your tongue already making you dizzy. You salivated around his length, a few dribbles of drool rolling down his shaft. Yeosang could feel himself twitching inside you. The sight of his uptight boss with her mouth so full of his cock made his head spin, all the hesitations and apprehensions he had in the beginning now dissipating while a hunger took over him. 

“Now suck it.” 

You began sucking at his head, the thickness of his hard cock proving to be a challenge, so much so that you could only really take the tip in your mouth. You grabbed onto the base with both hands, bobbing and slurping him as his breathing grew more unsteady. When you looked back up at him with your big, puppy-dog eyes, you were delighted to see that same Yeosang from earlier—the one with fire in his eyes, with furrowed brows and a sharp tongue, throwing demands and names at you without hesitation. Gone was the quiet, obedient assistant who trailed behind you like a shadow. In his place sat a man who, for the first time, wasn’t afraid to take up space. And you liked it.

“Fuck,” He moaned, “That’s it, that’s a good puppy…take all of me in that dumb little mouth, yeah, just like that.” 

You loved hearing him coach you, loved when he called you a dumb little puppy. You could feel your wetness leaking through your stockings, a need aching so strongly between your legs that you had no choice but to grind yourself over Yeosang’s new shoes, your slick wet juices glistening over the rubber soles. 

Yeosang was so far gone now, his only purpose left being to chase his high. His hands gripped your strands tightly to hold you in place. Before you knew it, he was thrusting himself into you, his whole length pushing down into your throat with no warning. He set a brutal pace, fucking your mouth with no mercy, reveling in your wet gagging sounds as he makes use of your throat. 

“Fuck, I love fucking this little mouth,” He panted, “Good little slut, gonna take my cum? Gonna swallow all my cum down your little throat, huh?” 

Tears streamed down your face as he ruthlessly plowed into your mouth. Despite his roughness, your body trembled with need, your hips continuing to grind against his shoes, desperate for release. Your muffled moans vibrate around his shaft, spurring Yeosang on as he chases his pleasure. 

Yeosang gripped your hair tightly, thrusting and plunging his hard cock deeper into your eager mouth. For years, he dealt with your nonstop nagging and bitching, and he had to admit it was nice to finally get you to shut up, with a mouth full of his cock no less. “This is what you like, huh? You like being put in your place? Like being a little fuck doll for me?” 

He punctuated his words with harsh snaps of his hips. The term fuck doll was enough to send you over the edge. Your hips stilled, your core tightening as you came, your moans muffled by his hard cock. A devilish grin spread across his face as he playfully tapped the tip of his shoe against your swollen clit, the jolt of overstimulation sending shivers cascading through you. He relished in the sight of you laid bare in vulnerability, a stark contrast to the composed persona you typically wore.  “Such a mess for me” He sighed, satisfied with your mascara-stained cheeks and reddened, slobbery lips. “So, so pretty…”

You grunted with each thrust, the tight clutch of your throat milking his cock deliciously. You looked up at him with pleading eyes, silently begging for his cum as you took everything he gave you. Your tongue danced along his shaft, massaging the sensitive underside as he fucked your face with wild abandon. You swallowed around him greedily, your throat convulsing along his length as you strived to please him. 

With a final hard thrust, Yeosang buried himself deep into your warm mouth and let go, flooding your throat with ropes of his hot cum. His breath hitched, a deep, guttural sound of pleasure escaping him as his seed spilled and trickled from the corners of your lips. With firm hands, he held your head snugly against him, grinding against your face as he emptied himself, savoring the sight of you taking every fervent drop.

Your eyes brimmed with tears as you took him deeper, the bittersweet taste of his seed offering a strange satisfaction on your tongue. As you pulled away with a soft pop, Yeosang gently traced your lips with the tip of his cock, leaving a glistening trail of his pearly essence. You couldn't help but lick your lips in delight, a soft moan escaping you as you savored his flavor.

Yeosang felt like he could cum again from watching you grind your cum-drenched face on his cock. You were so desperate, so depraved, he almost couldn’t believe this was you. The same career-driven CEO he had dutifully served, the woman who made decisions with razor-sharp precision, who commanded everyone’s attention with a snap of her fingers—this was what you secretly craved? To be stripped of control? To be the one taking orders instead of giving them? Who knew that the woman he had once feared, the one who dictated his every move, secretly longed to be a mindless servant, void of responsibility, bound by nothing but the will of someone else?

You gazed up at him adoringly, drinking at the sight of his ruffled hair, his heaving chest rising and falling as he caught his breath. The rawness of him, unfiltered and unrestrained, filled you with a thrill you hadn’t felt in so long.

To serve someone else for once.

To be the one waiting, watching, hoping for approval.

To do so well for someone that it left them utterly speechless.

It was nearly midnight now, and you had a meeting at 7 AM. You should have stopped, should have called it a night, and sent him home. But how could you now? Not when your body was buzzing with anticipation, not when you craved more—more of his voice, more of his praise, more of him.

You wanted to keep going. To do more for him. To hear him call you his good little puppy again.

Slowly, you pushed back onto your heels, your wide, eager eyes locking with his.

“What would you like me to do now, Mr. Kang?”

I would greatly appreciate reblogs with comments and replies. please consider giving feedback if you enjoyed this.

[naxalbari1967]

The Free Market Lie: How America Plans Poverty for the Many and Wealth for the Few

The U.S. is not a free market. It’s a rigged system with the government as the architect for the rich. A planned economy for billionaires. Everything from the military to Wall Street to universities to housing is built to keep wealth locked at the top and everyone else fighting over scraps. The state doesn’t interfere with markets to help people. It interferes to keep capital protected, profits flowing, and power untouched.

The military is the easiest place to see it. They pretend it’s about defense but it’s corporate welfare in camo. Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Boeing. They don’t just sell weapons. They’re guaranteed contracts for years sometimes decades. The budget is locked. The wars don’t even matter. Politicians already know what weapons they’ll buy before the vote is cast. That’s not the free market deciding anything. That’s government money pumped into killing tech so CEOs can cash bonuses. Whole economies in poor U.S. towns depend on this blood pipeline. It’s not security. It’s planned destruction with a profit margin.

Wall Street is the same scam. The Fed doesn’t even pretend to play fair. The moment the stock market drops the printing press starts. Trillions pumped in to keep rich people from losing too much. Bailouts in 2008. Bailouts in 2020. Corporate welfare for billionaires who made the crash happen. Meanwhile regular people lose homes, jobs, savings, and get told there’s no money left. The rich gamble with your future and when they lose the government resets the table. That’s not capitalism. That’s planned recovery for capital only.

Tech, oil, pharma. None of these monsters survive without the state. They get subsidized research, legal monopolies, patent extensions, and tax breaks stacked so high you can’t even track them. You try starting a company from scratch in that industry and see how long it takes before you’re crushed. The government isn’t just helping. It’s building the castle walls. Amazon didn’t beat everyone. The state cleared the field. Walmart didn’t rise because of efficiency. It rose because the state gave it cheap labor, public infrastructure, and tax deals nobody else could get. This isn’t competition. This is prearranged dominance.

Even the schools are part of it. Universities are nothing but training camps for capital. They teach management, marketing, tech skills, and call it education. They charge six figures to teach you how to serve the system. Meanwhile the schools that used to offer real working-class mobility have been gutted. Vocational programs defunded. Community colleges starved. The pipeline is now one-directional toward corporate America or nowhere.

And don’t even bring up healthcare. The only reason insurance and pharma companies can rob you blind is because the government lets them. No other country tolerates this. Prices are made up. Rationing is built in. People die because there’s no profit in saving them. And every time reform comes up lobbyists smother it. They don’t just influence policy. They write it. This is a health system planned for profit not care. It works perfectly if you’re a shareholder.

Housing is treated like a luxury. Developers and landlords run the show. They get tax credits to gentrify. They get bailouts when they overbuild. And they get cops to evict people who can’t pay. Public housing starved. Rent control gutted. Homelessness criminalized. And every policy is designed to keep property values high and poor people out of sight. Not by accident. On purpose. Planned.

Cops are part of the economic plan too. They don’t just enforce laws. They enforce class. When workers organize they show up. When tenants resist they break down doors. When the rich panic they patrol. They’re not here for safety. They’re here for order capital’s order. And the military is their older louder cousin doing the same thing overseas.

Every inch of this economy is designed. Not by invisible hands. By think tanks, lobbyists, boards, and bureaucrats. And the design is simple. Keep the rich safe make the poor pay. When people say the U.S. doesn’t have socialism they’re wrong. It has socialism for the rich. For everyone else it’s capitalism with a baseball bat.

We’re told it’s a free market while the rich get golden parachutes and the rest of us drown. We’re told hard work pays off while landlords raise rent and bosses slash hours. None of this is chaos. It’s not broken. It’s doing what it was built to do. Plan everything for the top. Leave the rest to fight for scraps. The real economy isn’t free. It’s fenced off sealed tight and armed to the teeth.

[vodika-vibes]

Do It For Me

Summary: You are a Forensic Scientist who has been put in charge of the lab for Coruscant in spite of your youth and your relative inexperience. Due to budget cuts and the fact that there's so much crime on Coruscant, you are severely overworked. Hound takes an issue with that.

Pairing: Pre-ARF Trooper Hound x F!Reader

Word Count: 1837

Warnings: None

Tagging: @trixie2023 @n0vqni

A/N: I was writing a Fives fic and it was turning into hot garbage, so I wrote something else instead. And I'm in a Hound mood for some reason. AND I made a new divider for this story specifically.

You are severely overworked. 

You know this. You’ve known this for years. And yet no one seems all that interested in making it better.

You thought, hoped, prayed, that the creation of the Coruscant Guard was going to lessen your workload.

It didn’t. In fact, it just made you busier.

Now there are a lot more men out there investigating crimes, and sending their evidence to your lab, and the same number of techs trying to analyze the evidence.

The turnover rate at your lab is, frankly, embarrassing. 

You’re the employee who’s been here the longest, and you’ve only been here for two years. The fact that you’re now in charge of the lab, at barely 24 years old, is horrifying.

But none of the people who trained you were willing to stay.

And you can’t even keep new hires around for longer than a couple of months.

In fact, you once had a recent graduate that you interviewed and hired, who took one look at her to-do stack, and resigned. She worked less than an hour. You hadn’t even had time to finish filing her paperwork before she resigned.

It was impressive. 

But as impressive as it was, it didn’t help with the fact that you’re one person doing the job of five.

You haven’t seen your apartment in a week.

You haven’t had a vacation since you were hired.

You haven’t slept more than 6 hours a night in over six months.

And still, still, the work keeps piling up.

At this point, every time you close your eyes, you see blood splatter and blaster round trajectory and dead bodies. Every night for the last week, you’ve had nightmares about the morgue-

You need a break.

Desperately. 

But, in the end, it doesn’t matter what you need. Because crimes keep happening, people keep dying, and the evidence keeps piling up, and there aren’t enough employees for anyone to even take a day off, let alone a vacation.

You push your fingers through your hair, pulling it out of the tail only long enough to use your fingers as a brush, and then you pull your hair into a messy knot, and focus your exhausted eyes back on the file in front of you.

30 year old Nautolan Male, found murdered in the lower level. Coroner's report indicates that he was executed, two bolts to the back of the head. Victim was a known member of the Justic-

The words start blurring on the page, and you sigh and press the palms of your hands over your eyes.

You are so kriffing tired.

There’s a sharp knock on your door, and you lift your head as someone clad in gray and white armor walks in. The locations of the colors indicate that he’s a member of the Coruscant Guard, and the colors themselves indicate that he’s an ARF Trooper.

Not for the first time, you curse the fact that the Guard doesn’t allow for more unique body armor paint.

You squint at him for a moment, waiting for your eyes to agree with you so you can focus better on the man standing in front of you. “What’s wrong, Sen’ika, can’t recognize me?”

You recognize the light tone, and familiar nickname, before you recognize the man, and you send up a silent prayer of thanks that the clones only have identical faces, and not identical personalities.

“Hound,” You even sound tired to your own ears, and as he comes closer to you, you see a concerned expression on his face, “Ah, sorry. Sergeant.” You correct hastily.

“You don’t have to use my rank, Sen’ika.” He crouches next to your desk, his sharp eyes taking in the bags under your eyes, the way your hands are trembling, and the blanket and pillow on your couch. “When was the last time you went home and slept?” He asks, his voice gentle.

“Does it look like I have time for that?” You ask as you rub your tired eyes, “I dunno, it’s been a week, I think.”

“Sen’ika,” Hound frowns at you, “This isn’t healthy.”

“It’s not like crime stops because I need to sleep,” You grouch, “And the evidence keeps piling up, and I can’t get anyone to stay longer than a few months and-” You trail off, “And you have another case for me, don’t you?” Your voice becomes dull and almost lifeless.

Hound stares at you for a moment, and then he flashes a small smile. “I don’t, actually. I just wanted to come and see you.”

You squint at him, “Come and see me? Why?”

“Do I need a reason?”

“...I guess not?” You ask, bewildered.

“Exactly!” Hound smoothly slides something onto your desk while you watching him, bewildered, and then he takes your hands and lightly pulls you to your feet, “We’re taking a trip.”

“I can’t! I have-”

“You have a legal requirement to take an hour break every 6 hours.” Hound interrupts, “How many hours have you been working? More than 6 I’m guessing.”

“...Yeah, maybe.” You don’t fight him as he draps an arm over your shoulder and he guides you out of your office, and down the hall, and then outside, to where Grizzer is waiting.

The large massiff immediately bounces around your feet, and you duck slightly to give her a scratch. You’re a familiar person to her, likely because of how often you bump into Hound at various crime scenes.

“You never did tell me where we’re going.” You say to Hound once you straighten back up.

“Trust me.” Hound offers as he takes Grizzer’s leash and then tugs you against his side.

You’re a little confused at the way he’s being so comfortable with touching you, but you’re also not too bothered. Hound is Hound, after all. He’s always been safe.

So, as he leads you down the street, you don’t offer any complaint outside of a very weak argument that you needed your purse and your comm. And, with a laugh, Hound disagrees.

Hound doesn’t have an office, per se, but he does have his own space where he’s able to do his own paperwork, and where he can take Grizzer when she gets overwhelmed.

And apparently, where he brings overworked and underpaid civil servants who are working themselves to death.

His sen’ika is sitting on the old, worn couch he got from somewhere, her arms draped over Grizzer who is asleep on her lap. She looks exhausted. The kind of exhausted that he’s only seen on Fox before.

In a word, he’s worried.

“Sen’ika,” He coos the familiar nickname, and she lifts her gaze to look at him through hazy and exhausted eyes, and even then she’s the most stunning woman he’s ever met, “You can lay down and take a nap, I won’t judge you.”

She’s already shaking her head, “I have to get back eventually.”

“But if you get up, you’ll disturb Grizzer.” Hound points out.

She looks down at Grizzer, and she must be more tired than he thought because she just looks puzzled, like she can’t quite figure out the best way to get free. His worry increases.

“Just a short nap, sen’ika.” Hound encourages, “You’re not going to be able to finish your work with how fuzzy you are right now.”

For a moment she looks like she’s about to agree, but then she presses her lips into a thin line, “I have to get back, Hound.”

Hound leans back in his seat, his mind racing. He can’t let her go back. Not in this state. And using Grizzer as an excuse isn’t going to work anymore, he already knows.

“Alright,” He says slowly, thoughtfully. 

He gets to his feet and carefully moves Grizzer, and then helps his sen’ika to her feet. Hound isn’t the least bit surprised when she stumbles into him, though he is glad that he thought ahead and removed the majority of his armor.

“...m’sorry.” She says quietly.

Hound closes his eyes for a moment and then, very gently presses his hand against the back of her neck, holding her against him. “You haven’t done anything wrong.” His voice is soft, soothing.

Her hands come up to press against his chest, and for a moment, Hound thinks she’s going to push away, worries that he pushed too hard. But, instead, she curls her fingers into the thin material of his blacks. “I’m so tired,” She whispers, and her voice cracks.

And that’s what Hound was waiting for.

His free arm wraps firmly around her, holding her tight, “You don’t have to go back to work. You need to take a break.”

He feels her tears soaking into his top and Hound turns his head to press a light kiss to the side of her head, “Someone has to do it-” She whispers, her voice thick with tears.

“That someone doesn’t have to be you.” Hound murmurs in reply as he slowly, and carefully, walks her back towards the couch. He readjusts her, and then sits on the couch, while holding her close. “We can reach out to the Jedi, they can help you.”

“The Senate-”

“Kriff the senate,” Hound’s voice holds no heat as he gently offers what comfort he can, “You’re working yourself to death, and I’m not going to tolerate it anymore.”

She pulls away from his shoulder and looks up at him through miserable, watery eyes, “Why do you care?”

“Because you’re my friend. Because I care about you.” Hound brushes his fingers against her cheek, “because I love you more than anything in this galaxy. Take your pick.”

She blinks at him, and then drops her head on his shoulder. She doesn’t say anything positive, but she also doesn’t say anything negative, which is good enough for now.

It’s not fair to spring love on her when she’s so exhausted. The fact that she’s not running away is good enough for now.

“Will you stay here and take a nap?” Hound asks as he strokes her back lovingly, “For me?”

“Every time I try to sleep, I have nightmares,” She admits quietly.

“Then you can sleep on me. I’ll wake you if you look like you’re having a nightmare. I promise.” Hound offers. “What do you think?”

She sighs, soft and quiet, “I suppose I can agree to that.” His sen’ika’s eyes drift shut, and Hound carefully adjusts her so that she’s leaning against him comfortably. 

Fox is going to blow a gasket, but if he words his request properly, maybe then the Guard and the Forensics unit can get Jedi oversight. That can only help with his poor Sen’ika’s problem, and it’ll keep Fox from working himself to death.

Hound glances at the woman in his lap, and his gaze softens, before he presses a light kiss to the top of her head. That’s a problem for later, for now, he has the love of his life asleep in his arms, and he’s going to just enjoy it while he can.

[preservationofnormalcy]

Ok, so I’m writing a novel involving paranormal investigation (no relation to you, takes place in a fictional town) and I’m on my third draft when the main character shows up behind me, grabs and turns me around to tell me of the “inaccuracies to his case”. Now I wrote them down and how I should change them. And when I looked up from my notepad, he was gone.

I want to continue, and most of these I feel like I can implement within the story, but what exactly happened? And if this becomes a series, will he continue to pop up, or was it one of those “one in a blue moon scenarios”?

And what do I do if it isn’t?

Hey Norm...

Hmm? Didn't you do a PSA about this exact subject in the nineties?

Oh, uh, sure. When I first started. Around '99. It's waaay outdated, now, you know, with the internet and everything, it's better to not even look it up. I don't think it was even digitized, really. I have no idea what happened to it.

Oh, Norm, don't worry! If there's one person who knows your filing system better than you, it's me! Let's see...H for Holmes, S for Sherlock...cross reference to P for Parafictional, 90s...HERE WE GO! "Dear Watson: That's Not Holmes, That's A Lure!"

Oh good, they put it on a disc so that a tech savvy person could find it, uh, twenty five years later. I wouldn't play it, I can't guarantee--

<An old, color degraded video begins playing. It's clearly shot on VHS, with a minimal budget, and had degraded somewhat before being transferred to digital. A man stands in a small, cinderblock room in front of a backdrop depicting a victorian study. He is wearing a tweed jacket with leather patches on the elbows and a pair of smart slacks. A deerstalker hat sits conspicuously on a stack of actual books, Sherlock Holmes novels. The man himself looks sort of like what you'd get if you focus-group-tested the only type of man Don Bluth knew how to draw, and has curtain bangs with frosted tips. The whole ensemble has the energy of a store-brand Milo Thatch. As he speaks, his eyes don't leave a fixed point behind the camera.>

So. You have encountered an entity from a fictional property. You're excited - maybe you wanted to talk to your favorite book character. Or. Maybe you are a writer and you are excited to talk to your protagonist. But...is that entity real?

<There's an extremely awkward camera change, and the man looks to it, his eyes following a point again.>

....or a lure?

<He leans back and there is a too-long pause before he continues.>

When encountering a parafictional manifestation, remember the three S's.

<The visuals change to a grainy blue background, white text appearing as the man's voiceover continues.>

Solidity: are you are this entity is physical and not all in your head?

Subjective: if it's real, are other people seeing the same thing?

Sentience: is this entity sentient, or merely approximating sentience? Is it answering questions like a sentient entity, or like how it would be expected to answer?

<It cuts back to the man, standing behind the chair with his hands on the back. There is a too-long pause again.>

If...uh.

If this entity doesn't pass any of these easy-to-remember checks, that's a red flag. Any number of malicious extranormal entities can exploit the human capacity for creativity in order to feed on our psychic energy, creating a non-sentient construct we call a "Chinese Room" in order to keep YOU from asking questions.

Remember next time you see Darth Vader, Spider-man, or Tarzan - are you so incredibly lucky to experience such a rare phenomena as true parafictional manifestation?

<He awkwardly puts a pipe in his mouth and blows a few bubbles.>

Or are you being lured?

<The video ends.>

....god, my hair.

[egnlotsc]

you're not invisible to me - egnlotsc

~~Percabeth AU in which Percy needs a roommate, and Annabeth needs a place to live...but there's only one bed. Good thing he leaves when she comes home.~~

“You agreed to what ?!” Piper’s voice echoed through the crowded coffee shop, leading Annabeth to shoot a glare at her friend as half the shop’s occupants turned their heads towards the commotion.

“Piper!” Annabeth hissed, smiling apologetically at the young woman seated near them, who had dropped her stack of papers she had been holding. “Calm down. It’s the best deal I could find.”

Piper scoffed, sipping her coffee in response. “The best deal would be paying a little out of your set budget. Not agreeing to live with a man you’ve never met, whose main stipulation is that you have to share the same bed!”

Annabeth sighed, toying with the end of her messy braid. “It sounds worse when you put it that way.” Piper rolled her eyes, her incredulity written across her face.

“Besides, we’re not sharing the bed…in that way. Only whenever one of us isn’t there. He works nights as a security guard at the museum downtown, so by the time I leave for work in the morning, he will just be getting off his shift. We might not ever see each other.”

“That’s a big “if”, Anna. Are you sure you can trust this guy?” Annabeth nodded, leveling her gaze with Piper’s. “Apparently he’s an old friend of Leo’s.”

Piper laughed, shaking her head. “Any friend of Leo’s should be questioned.” Annabeth rolled her eyes at her friend. “Piper, we’re friends with Leo.”

“We’re the exceptions,” she responded. “Actually, I’m the exception. Maybe you’re just as crazy as him with this idea of yours.” Sighing at Piper’s continuous nagging, Annabeth stood up, pulling her purse over her shoulder.

“You’ll see, Pipes. It will work out perfectly, and then I’ll be able to say ‘I told you so’!” Piper laughed in response, hooking her arm through Annabeth’s. “Sure, Anna, sure.”

~~~

Annabeth slid her key into the door’s lock, gently turning it until she heard a soft click. She pushed open the door slowly, her apprehension getting the best of her despite her earlier confidence in the situation.

As she surveyed the spacious apartment in front of her, Annabeth felt her nerves dissipate slightly when her gaze landed on the view outside of the window. “Wow,” she whispered to herself, stepping further into the room, the sound of her suitcase against the hardwood breaking the silence.

As she moved from area to area, Annabeth couldn’t believe her luck. When she had stumbled upon the listing on one of the local housing websites she had become all-too-familiar with over the past few months, she thought it was a joke.

A stunning Manhattan high-rise with the lowest monthly rent she’d ever seen, with the condition that there was only room for a single bed? The poster, who simply identified himself as Percy Jackson, went on to explain that due to his long hours on the night shift, he was never home.

Annabeth’s heart had filled with sympathy as he described that after his mom had became sick, he fell into debt due to the expensive hospital and treatment bills and needed an extra source of income to pay them off.

Thus, his idea to have an “invisible” roommate was born. Annabeth fit the description of his ideal roommate perfectly; she worked a day job that lasted until dinner time, and wouldn’t arrive home until he had already left for work. In theory, they would never have to interact. It would be as if they both lived alone.

The next day, the ad had come up in a conversation with her longtime friend Leo over their weekly dinner at their favorite Manhattan diner.

Leo, ever the character, had immediately been on board with the idea. As he was reading through the posting, his face had gone slack-jawed. Percy Jackson had been Leo’s best friend in high school. Leo was quite the tech whiz and within minutes confirmed Percy’s identity.

It hadn’t taken her long to make her decision.

When she reached the single bedroom, she sucked in a breath before entering. She was surprised to see a queen-sized bed, dressed in a simple white comforter with matching pillows.

Percy wasn’t kidding - despite the lavish interior of the apartment, there wasn’t room for a second bed. The other two rooms were a bathroom and a laundry room.

Annabeth sank onto the bed, pulling her suitcase up beside it. “Here we go,” she whispered to herself, shrugging off her cardigan.

~~~

That night, Annabeth stood in front of the mirror in the bathroom, combing her hair as she contemplated how the rest of the night was going to play out. She had changed into her sleepwear long ago, but procrastinated actually climbing into bed.

The idea of someone else using the bed just as frequently as her was something she couldn’t quite wrap her head around. “It’s basically a hotel bed,” Annabeth muttered to herself, making her way back into the bedroom. She pulled back the covers, sinking down into the soft material of the mattress.

The first thing she noticed was how good the comforter smelled. Since she had been expecting a detergent smell, it took her a second to realize it was cologne.

She hadn’t even considered the idea that her new roommate would wear something so…captivating. It smelled like a mixture of everything good in the world, paired with a day on the beach. A smile creeped onto Annabeth’s face as she pulled the covers around her, breathing in her new favorite scent.

It was distinctly male, causing her to blush slightly as the reality of her situation set in. “What have I gotten myself into?” Annabeth whispered into the quiet apartment.

She fell asleep within minutes.

~~~

Percy tossed his jacket onto the back of the kitchen chair, running a hand through his disheveled hair. Today had been particularity tiring, as a few drunk NYU kids decided to have a party outside of the museum at three in the morning, causing a commotion that about lost him his job.

He glanced around the apartment, his gaze catching on a small suitcase tucked in the corner of the room near the bedroom door. His roommate must have arrived yesterday afternoon, according to the bag’s presence.

If he was being honest, Percy didn’t know too much about his new roommate. He had been so desperate for any sort of income that he had picked the first application he found that didn’t give him a headache.

There were some odd individuals in New York; so when he stumbled upon her application it had been a refreshing change in pace. In his haste to find a renter, Percy hadn’t thought to ask for any kind of identification other than proof of prior residence and a valid bank statement. In hindsight, it would have been nice to have at least a picture of the person who now lives in his apartment.

All he knew about her was her name was Annabeth Chase, and she was a year younger than him. She had previously lived closer to downtown, in a small apartment complex Percy had passed a few times on his way to work when his usual route was blocked.

His first thought after contacting her was how pretty her name was. Scrubbing a hand over his face, he tried to force himself to think of something else. It’s not like he was ever going to see her. Their schedules didn’t overlap for even one hour of the day.

After brushing his teeth and raising an eyebrow at the sheer amount of hair and makeup products now occupying two of his four bathroom drawers, Percy entered the bedroom and took in the neatly made bed, the pillows strategically propped up against the headboard.

He pulled open one of the dresser drawers, relieved to find his own clothes still in their place. Percy quickly changed before sliding into the covers, freezing when he registered the soft lemony scent currently overtaking his senses.

Percy’s heart beat faster as he realized it was her scent. Annabeth had slept on the same side as he did last night. It occurred to him in that moment how distinctly lonely his life had been since his mom fell sick.

He had pushed his friends away, and hadn’t dated since his ex, Rachel. That was years ago. “That’s why you’re acting so weird, Percy. You’re just lonely.”

Even to him, his own reasoning sounded like a lie. As he settled beneath the covers, he whispered to himself, “What have I gotten into?”

He fell asleep within minutes.

~~~

Annabeth knew she should have stayed at Piper’s house after she came down with a fever, but she had been too weak to even pick up the phone and call her friend.

In her grogginess, she hadn’t realized that by staying home from work the next day, she’d break the cycle her and Percy had kept up for the past two months - she comes, he goes; she goes, he comes.

So when she awoke the next morning - or afternoon, she wasn’t sure - the first thing she had seen was a pair of green eyes staring back at her.

She was too weary to react physically, but her heart stopped for a second before she registered the sunlight streaming through the window and the time on the clock that certainly wasn’t seven-fifteen A.M.

Memories flooded back of the night before, when suddenly she felt she was burning up and called off of work while fighting off a bought of nausea. Percy, she thought to herself, taking in his concerned expression.

He was holding a leather jacket and a pair of car keys, his messy black hair falling into his eyes as he stood a few feet away from the bed. He was even more attractive than she ever could have imagined.

Annabeth tried to sit up, but winced as pain sliced through her head. Percy seemed to snap out of his shocked state, setting down his belongings before stepping closer to her. “Annabeth?” he questioned, his voice wary.

All she could do was nod in response, holding a hand up to her forehead. “Are you okay?” Percy continued, sitting down on the small section of the bed near her right side.

Even through her pain, she could smell the familiar scent of his cologne, and for a moment, she forgot how to breathe properly. He was so close.

“I think I have the flu,” she whispered in response, her throat flaring in pain. Percy winced in sympathy, reaching up and gently pressing the back of his hand to her forehead. “You’re definitely warm,” he noted, eyeing the bottle of medicine on the bedside table. “Have you taken any of this?” Annabeth nodded.

“I took two last night, and then immediately fell asleep. I was hoping the fever would break overnight.” Percy chuckled slightly, reaching over and picking up the medicine bottle.

“The flu lasts longer than a day, Annabeth,” he replied softly. The tenderness in his voice did things to her heart she didn’t want to admit.

“I didn’t want to break our deal,” Annabeth whispered, looking down at her hands. She sucked in a breath when she felt his fingers gently lift her chin until she was looking into his gorgeous green eyes. “The deal doesn’t apply when you’re sick. It’s your apartment. You’re allowed to stay home to rest.”

She blushed slightly as she realized he had nowhere to sleep. “What about you?” Annabeth replied, gesturing to the bed. “I can sleep on the couch,” Percy answered, shaking his head when she began to protest.

“Let me do this, Annabeth,” he whispered, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear, before turning around abruptly.

Annabeth blushed scarlet as she watched his retreating form, chiding herself for feeling the way she did. How did she have such strong feelings towards a man she had quite literally just met? How had Percy Jackson become such a focal point in her life?

~~~

Percy tossed and turned on the uncomfortable leather couch, shifting under the thin blanket he had dug out from the linen closet. It wasn’t just the couch’s lack of comfort preventing him from sleeping. It was the girl in the room twenty feet away from him.

It was an understatement to say he was surprised when he arrived home from work and discovered the prettiest girl he’d ever seen laying in his bed. He hadn’t meant to wake her, but the hinge of the door he kept forgetting to oil creaked loudly when he had opened it.

Annabeth’s blonde hair and striking grey eyes kept dancing across Percy’s vision, her lemon scent coming back to him as clearly as if he was lying in bed like every other night, simply imagining what she looked like.

Although he could have easily found her on some form of social media, Percy decided against it because he could feel himself falling for her despite not knowing anything about her besides her signature scent, the foods she most frequently left in the fridge, and her penchant for floral blouses and skirts if the closet was any indication.

Percy berated himself internally for allowing his feelings for Annabeth to shine through the way they had earlier. Something had possessed him to touch her chin, to push her hair behind her ear, to focus way too much on her lips.

The idea of falling in love with someone solely from their scent was laughable at best, yet Percy knew deep down he had somehow made it a reality.

He couldn’t even fathom the idea of her feeling the same way, yet something about the way she had looked at him during their encounter made him wonder.

Could they ever be more than invisible roommates?

~~~

When Annabeth awoke several hours later, she felt much better than she had that morning. Sitting up slowly, she glanced around the darkened room and realized it was well past four P.M., the time that Percy usually left for work.

A glass of water rested on her bedside table, and she downed the whole glass before sliding out from under the covers, adjusting the tank top and cotton shorts she was still wearing from the day prior. Annabeth had just pulled open the door when she stopped dead in her tracks, shock flowing through her system.

Percy’s back was to her as he stirred a pot on the stove, the soft sounds of the TV filtering into the kitchen from the living room. “Percy?” Annabeth exclaimed, stepping further into the kitchen. He spun around, smiling when his gaze fell on her.

She felt her heart flutter as she took in his smile. “You’re awake,” he replied, turning off the stove and pouring the contents of the pot into a bowl next to the stove. “I was just about to finish dinner.”

Annabeth’s could feel her hunger building, and she wrapped her arms around her mid section, narrowing her eyes at the man in front of her.

“Why aren’t you at work?” Percy set down the salt shaker he had been holding, stepping closer to her. “Did you think I was going to leave you here when you were sick?” “It’s just the flu, Percy,” she responded, a blush rising on her cheeks at the look in his eyes.

He looked like he truly cared about her…but that couldn’t be right. They barely knew each other. “It doesn’t matter,” he replied, his face serious. Annabeth realized in that moment that he was referring to his mom.

As far as she knew, Percy’s mom was still sick. Yet, the sincerity in his expression puzzled her. Could he care about her more than he let on?

“I’m feeling better,” Annabeth decided, gently wrapping her fingers around his wrist and pulling his hand up to her forehead. Percy didn’t look away as he pressed his hand against it. “You’ve cooled down,” was his response.

His eyes had turned a shade darker, which led Annabeth to realize the distance between them had dwindled significantly. If she moved an inch forward, they would be touching.

“Is there any other reason you didn’t go to work tonight?” Annabeth whispered, surprising herself with her boldness.

“Oh, Annabeth,” he sighed, reaching out and wrapping an arm around her waist. She gasped in surprise, registering the warmth of his skin through the thin cotton material of her tank top.

“For the past two months, I’ve told myself it’s impossible to develop feelings for someone without knowing them, but I was lying. Every night since you moved in, I’ve slept better than I have in years. When my mom became sick, I pushed everyone in my life away. Until you came into my life, I never realized how lonely I was."

"You filled the emptiness in me, simply with your lemon shampoo, and your floral blouses, and your endless hair products. Just knowing those things are what made you, you, was enough for me to love again.”

Annabeth couldn’t believe what she was hearing. For a moment, she wondering if she was only dreaming, and she would wake up in the empty bed, the smell of Percy’s cologne being the only thing linking her to him. He…loved her?

He loved the small things that made up who she was, like the same shampoo she’d been using since middle school, and her obsession with anything floral print?

Annabeth could feel her eyes watering as she wrapped her arms around Percy’s neck, pulling herself closer to him. His gaze drifted to her lips before snapping back to meet hers, a question in the depth of his eyes.

She didn’t think before she crashed her lips against his, shivering as his hands grazed the strip of exposed skin at her waist from where her tank top had ridden up.

Pulling her against his chest, Percy deepened the kiss, walking them backwards until her back pressed against the kitchen counter.

Annabeth threaded her fingers through his impossibly soft black hair, whimpering softly when his hands ran up and down her sides, his lips moving to her jaw for a moment before he kissed her again, softer this time.

Annabeth pulled back a few minutes later, resting her forehead against Percy’s. She feels his thumb swipe against her cheek, and realizes there are still tears glittering on her lashes. Her heart is racing, her lips tingling and warm.

Annabeth never wants to move from her position in his arms, his wrapped around her waist holding her tight. She feels as if she’s floating.

Looking into the eyes of the man who she never imagined falling for, the one person in her life who’s made her feel as no one else has, she realizes something for certain.

She’s in love.

And she plans on never letting go.

~~~

“Okay, Mom. I’ll make sure she knows. I love you,” Percy responded, his tone exasperate as he tried for the third time to get his mom to hang up.

Finally, the line clicks and Percy slides his phone into his pocket, pulling out his keys and unlocking the door. A soft humming filters through the house, bringing a grin to Percy’s face that gets bigger the closer he gets to the kitchen.

His gaze lands on the woman in front of the stove, watching as she hums along to a Christmas song coming from the radio at the end of the counter.

Her long, curly blonde hair spills over her shoulders and down her back, coming to rest at the waistband of her white skirt. Setting down his bag on the counter to alert her of his presence, Percy steps up behind her and slides his arms around her waist, his palms resting on the swell of her stomach.

Annabeth giggles softly, turning in his arms and pressing into him. She’s wearing this captivating red lipstick that Percy can’t seem to take his eyes off of, and she notices, biting her lip and moving just out of his reach.

Shooting his wife a playful glare, he lowers his mouth to hers, suppressing a grin when her protests are muffled by his lips. Percy knows he’s messing up her lipstick, but with the way her hands trail under his shirt, he knows she doesn’t really mind.

Annabeth tastes like the apple pie filling simmering on the stove, and Percy can’t get enough of it, of her.

She’s everything he ever could have wished for, and all it took was a spur-of-the-moment post for Percy to find his forever home with the girl of his dreams, and the child they have created.

He couldn’t ask for more.

[rabbitinashell]

Title: Crazy Garage Shenanigans

Tej Parker had never been one to back down from a challenge, but this? This was next level.

"Tej, darling, do you ever wonder how many sandwiches you've consumed in your life?" you asked casually, flipping upside down from the hood of one of his many custom cars. "Like, if we stacked them, could we build a ladder to space? Because I’m just saying… sandwiches are totally underrated when it comes to their architectural potential."

Tej squinted at you from under the car he was working on. “You got a reason for interrupting me with that madness?”

You dropped to the floor in one graceful, completely unnecessary flip, landing right beside him. “Madness? Oh no, no, no. This is science, baby. Speaking of which,” you added, leaning over to peek at the mess of wires and gadgets, “how’s our little project? Is it gonna make the car fly? Because if it’s not flying, Tej, we might as well be cavemen. You’re not a caveman, are you?”

Tej pulled himself out from under the car and sat up, wiping his hands with a rag. He shot you a look—the kind of look that said, “What did I ever do to deserve this?” But underneath that exasperation was a tiny smirk. He wouldn’t admit it out loud, but he liked your random ramblings.

“I told you, it’s gonna give us faster acceleration, not turn it into the Batmobile,” he said, giving you a side-eye. “Why do you always gotta ask the craziest stuff?”

“Because, Tej, life’s a party. And if we aren’t trying to create rocket-powered cars or figuring out how to fit 300 tacos into one suitcase, are we really living?” You threw yourself dramatically into one of the swivel chairs and spun around in circles like you were in a low-budget action movie montage. “We need to push boundaries. You, me, and maybe a couple of chimichangas. Ooh, we should make those next!”

Tej couldn't help but laugh, shaking his head. “You’re insane, you know that?”

“I prefer the term ‘creatively unhinged,’” you corrected, grinning. “And don’t pretend you don’t love it. You totally love it. Admit it. I’m the best thing that’s ever happened to your garage, second only to that time you built a drone that delivered pizza.”

“Fine, you’re the third best thing,” he teased back, giving your chair a playful push as he walked past.

You gasped in mock offense. “The disrespect. Guess you don’t want me to help you test this bad boy on the track, huh?”

Tej stopped, turned, and crossed his arms. “Oh, now you wanna help? What happened to making a sandwich ladder to space?”

“Oh, I can multitask,” you winked. “But you’re gonna have to convince me.”

“Convince you?” he echoed, raising an eyebrow. “What, you want me to beg?”

“Begging wouldn’t hurt,” you said, tapping your chin. “But, let’s keep it simple. You let me drive, and I’ll save the sandwich construction for another day. Deal?”

Tej sighed, but that smile broke through again. “Deal. But if you wreck it, you’re paying for the damages.”

You grinned, already hopping into the driver’s seat. “Buddy, if I wreck this, we’ll have bigger problems—like how I’ll explain to Dom that his tech guy let me behind the wheel.”

Tej got in next to you, shaking his head, but the laughter in his eyes said it all: you were chaos, but you were his kind of chaos.

[kivaember]

Reading the garage scenes in APV made me curious if you have any other thoughts about how garages as a whole work in the AC6-verse (or more specifically APV). How do they vary from case-to-case, e.g. how would a corp garage look different from say, and RLF or independent merc garage? Do certain engineers have specific parts/frames they like working on compared to others?

i crash through the wall leaving a kiva-shaped hole because I LOVE TALKING!!! LOGISTICS!!!!

Corporate Garages:

The level of size and sophistication is largely dependant on how big the corporation is, but on a whole they're very sleek and professional and choking in red tape. The engineers normally take on the lion share of the paperwork, but every single nut and bolt has to be accounted for with the repairs, and it's a pain to order said nuts and bolts.

They're bound by strict policies as well (example: you will only replace parts that are considered totally unusable contrasting with another corporation's that's like "you will replace any parts that so much have a scuff on them", bc its largely dependant on what they mainly do. Are their ACs solely used for clandestine ops against other corpos? Then they're gonna nickle and dime the parts. Are they used as public advertisement for how cool and shiny they look? Then they're gonna ensure its pristine the moment it steps out of the garage doors, etc). Everything is standardised, and everyone is taught to adhere to the policies right down to the letter, unless you wanna skip out on that much needed promotion...

Tl;dr, corpo garages are well maintained and have stacks of documentation and safety policies in place, but it can also be byzantine in requesting parts as you have to basically fistfight the budgeting department to release the funds for these very expensive AC parts.

(This also means corpo garages have a very cookie cutter look to them. They all look the same no matter what planet you're on, no matter what corporation they are. The only difference between them is the company logo plastered on the walls...)

RLF Garages:

They like to repurpose old garages that survived the Fires, as the infrastructure is already there, but they can also make do with old airplane hangers or industrial warehouses in a pinch. They're generally safety hazards, as everything is tied together with tape and prayers, but the RLF is very good at jury-rigging anything that needs jury-rigging and approximating any tech they need with whatever they have on hand.

At a glance, their garages do look like chaotic death traps, but they also have a level of standardisation in terms of how they carry out repairs. They're better at patching up using old scrap metal and cannibalising destroyed MTs/ACs rather than getting new parts wholesale, so in comparison to the PCA or the corpos, their MTs and ACs have a Mad Max vibe to them lmao

They're very resourceful, in short, and they always get the results they want, even if it's not pretty getting there.

Independent Mercenary Garages:

This entirely depends on how successful the mercenary is. If they're like 621, then their garage is pretty high quality. Walter ensured to take over an old existing garage that RaD identified and refurbished for him. Other independent mercs, however, tend to use whatever they can get their hands on.

Sometimes they find an old garage a corpo abandoned for whatever reason and try to use whatever existing infrastructure is there, other times they bribe the locals who just want money or supplies to survive for ideal locations - or they even cut a deal with RaD to use one of their many garages (and half the time they end up in RaD's chopshops if they're too slow or stingy in their "rent"). On Rubicon itself, though, ALLMIND offers usage of her own garages which are manned entirely by drones, and this is to her benefit of gathering data and tracking the independent mercs operating on the planet. If they ever become inconvenient, oop, into her chopshop you go...

It's why independent mercs are so insane about ensuring they get big payouts for their work. Being independent is expensive, because you have to source your own parts, pay for an independent engineer to fix your shit, find a place to do said repair and maintenance, buy your ammo, buy your fuel... with corporations this is all subsidies to a degree, but an independent? Nah, you're on your own, kid.

Engineer Preferences:

They do have preferences! This is mostly because most "professional" engineers are trained by corporations, and normally in that corporation's preferred brand. So, an Arquebus engineer, for example, will only really know how to handle Arquebus and its subsidaries' parts, and would be far less confident in handling Balam parts.

I hc that corporations tend to try and install a "quirk" into their parts so that you need specialised engineer knowledge on how to properly install it onto your AC. Therefore, engineers that have cross-brand experience and knowledge are in high demand and can rake in quite a lot of money in helping AC pilots "mix-and-match" rival parts onto their ACs, and ensuring they synergise rather than act against each other.

Hilariously this means RLF engineers would be in high demand in the solar system, because they know the ins and outs of almost every single corporate AC brand and how to frankenstien them together. Them and RaD, truthfully.

[beautifuljourneycollection]

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Gifts for Kids

When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for kids, the options can feel endless—and a bit overwhelming. From educational toys and tech gadgets to creative crafts and outdoor gear, the best kids’ gifts strike a balance between fun and functional, entertaining and enriching.

Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or a special milestone, this guide will help you discover the top gifts for kids of all ages in 2025. We've compiled ideas that cater to various interests and budgets, so you can find a present that truly brings joy.

Why Choosing the Right Gift for Kids Matters?

Kids are constantly learning, growing, and exploring the world around them. The right gift can:

Encourage creativity and problem-solving

Support physical or mental development

Foster interests and passions

Provide entertainment and bonding time with family or friends

When choosing gifts for kids, consider their age, personality, and hobbies. Are they into building things? Love reading? Obsessed with science or sports? The best gifts are thoughtful and age-appropriate.

Top Gifts for Kids by Age Group

1. Gifts for Toddlers (Ages 1–3)

For toddlers, the best gifts are safe, stimulating, and help with motor skill development.

Stacking Toys and Building Blocks – Encourage hand-eye coordination and imaginative play.

Ride-On Toys – Great for physical activity and balance.

Interactive Learning Toys – Toys that sing, talk, or light up can help toddlers learn numbers, letters, and shapes.

Soft Books – Durable and colorful books make reading fun from an early age.

2. Gifts for Preschoolers (Ages 4–6)

Preschoolers love to explore, pretend, and learn new things.

Arts and Crafts Kits – Help kids develop fine motor skills and creativity.

Educational Games – Look for options that teach phonics, math, or problem-solving in a fun way.

Play Kitchens or Tool Sets – These promote role-playing and imagination.

Puzzles – Great for critical thinking and patience.

3. Gifts for School-Aged Kids (Ages 7–10)

Kids in this age group begin to develop specific interests and skills.

STEM Toys – Think coding robots, science kits, and engineering sets.

Board Games – Choose games suitable for their age that encourage strategic thinking.

Sports Equipment – A soccer ball, basketball hoop, or skateboard can keep kids active.

Books – Series like Dog Man, Harry Potter, or The Treehouse Books are hits with this age group.

4. Gifts for Tweens (Ages 11–13)

Tweens are starting to develop independence and stronger opinions.

Tech Gadgets – Smartwatches for kids, beginner-friendly tablets, or headphones.

DIY Craft Kits – Jewelry making, painting, or DIY slime kits are very popular.

Subscription Boxes – Monthly boxes for science, art, or reading keep the excitement going.

Outdoor Gear – Bikes, scooters, or even roller skates encourage activity and fun.

Trending Gifts for Kids in 2025

Looking for what's hot this year? Here are some trending gifts for kids in 2025:

Augmented Reality Learning Toys – Merging physical and digital play for interactive learning experiences.

Eco-Friendly Toys – Wooden toys, recycled materials, and sustainable packaging are becoming more popular among parents.

Personalized Gifts – Custom storybooks, name puzzles, or backpacks add a personal touch kids love.

Virtual Reality Headsets for Kids – Safe and age-appropriate VR experiences for gaming and learning.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gift

Consider Their Interests – Whether they love dinosaurs, art, space, or animals, pick something that aligns with what excites them.

Think About Longevity – Choose gifts that kids can grow into or use for a long time.

Encourage Learning – Many educational toys are so fun, kids won’t even realize they’re learning.

Ask Parents – When in doubt, ask the parents (especially for younger kids) about preferences, restrictions, or needs.

Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas

Not every great gift needs to cost a fortune. Here are some thoughtful and affordable gifts for kids under $25:

Coloring books and crayons

Card games like Uno or Go Fish

Mini puzzles or travel games

DIY science or art kits

Books or comic collections

Final Thoughts

Finding the right gifts for kids doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re looking for something educational, interactive, or just plain fun, the best gifts are those that match the child's personality and stage of development.

Remember, the goal is to bring a smile to their face and spark their imagination. With the ideas above, you're sure to find a gift that does just that.

[net-craft]

Hire App Developers: Guide to Finding the Perfect Team for Your Project

In Phoenix, Arizona, the mobile app development scene is booming. Businesses of all sizes are recognizing the power of a well-crafted app to reach new customers, enhance user experiences, and drive sales. But with a plethora of app developers in Phoenix vying for your attention, choosing the right team can be a daunting task. Worry not! This comprehensive guide from Net-Craft.com, a leading app development company in Scottsdale, will equip you with the knowledge to find the perfect app development partner for your project.

Understanding Your Needs: The Foundation for Success

Before embarking on your search for app developers in Phoenix, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your project's specific needs. Here are some key questions to consider:

App Purpose: What problem does your app solve? What unique value proposition will it offer?

Target Audience: Who are your ideal users? Understanding their demographics, behavior patterns, and mobile habits is critical.

App Features: Prioritize the core functionalities that deliver the most value to your users.

Budget and Timeline: Determine your budget and desired development timeframe.

Finding App Development Services in Phoenix: Exploring Your Options

There are several avenues to explore when seeking app developers in Phoenix:

In-House Development: Building your own development team offers complete control, but requires significant resources and expertise.

Freelance Developers: Hiring freelance developers can be cost-effective, but managing multiple freelancers and ensuring consistent communication can be challenging.

App Development Companies: Partnering with a reputable App Development Services provider in Phoenix offers a full-service solution with experienced teams, proven methodologies, and a deep understanding of the local tech landscape.

Choosing the Best App Developers in Phoenix: Key Factors

Company Expertise and Experience:

Look for a team with a proven track record of success in developing apps similar to yours.

Research their portfolio and case studies to understand their expertise in your industry or niche.

Development Process and Methodology:

Inquire about their development approach (e.g., Agile, Waterfall). Choose a methodology that aligns with your project needs and preferences.

Understand their communication style and how they will keep you informed throughout the development process.

Technology Stack and Capabilities:

Ensure the developers have experience with the programming languages and frameworks required for your app.

Consider their expertise with cutting-edge technologies that might benefit your app (e.g., AR/VR, AI).

Location and Cultural Fit:

Consider partnering with an app development company located in Phoenix. This facilitates easier communication and fosters a deeper understanding of the local market.

Evaluate if the company's culture aligns with your own. Building a strong rapport with your development team is crucial for project success.

Cost and Value Proposition:

Get quotes from several app developers in Phoenix and compare pricing structures.

Focus on the value proposition beyond just cost. Look for a team that demonstrates a genuine understanding of your project goals and can deliver a solution that provides a high return on investment (ROI).

The Importance of Communication and Collaboration

Building a successful app hinges on clear communication and strong collaboration with the development team. When evaluating potential partners, prioritize companies that:

Value open communication and are readily available for discussions.

Utilize project management tools to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Actively listen to your feedback and incorporate it into the development process.

Net-Craft.com: Your Trusted Partner for Custom App Development in Phoenix

At Net-Craft.com, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by businesses in Phoenix. We offer a comprehensive range of App Development Services in Phoenix, from concept development and design to development, testing, deployment, and ongoing support.

Our team of experienced developers is passionate about collaborating with entrepreneurs and businesses to bring their mobile app visions to life. We pride ourselves on:

Understanding your specific needs and tailoring our approach accordingly.

Employing a transparent and collaborative development process.

Delivering high-quality, custom-developed apps that meet your unique requirements.

Ready to Take the First Step? Contact Net-Craft.com Today!

Don't settle for anything less than the best! Schedule a consultation with Net-Craft.com to discuss your app vision and explore how our team of top app developers in Phoenix can help you turn your ideas into a thriving mobile application. Together, we can create a mobile app that empowers your business and delights your users.

Know more https://www.net-craft.com/blog/2024/10/15/hire-app-developers-guide/

[ngssolution]

Navigating the Complex World of Mobile App Development

In today’s tech-driven world, mobile apps have become a cornerstone of how we connect, work, and play. Whether you’re launching a startup or enhancing an established business, building a mobile app can be a game-changing move. One of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing the right technology stack. The tech stack you pick will directly influence your app’s performance, scalability, and overall user experience.

What Exactly Is a Tech Stack?

A tech stack is essentially the set of tools, programming languages, and frameworks you use to build your app. For mobile apps, the stack typically consists of three main components:

Front-End: This is what users see and interact with — the app’s interface.

Back-End: This is the engine under the hood — handling data storage, processing, and integrations.

Platform: The operating system your app is built for, like iOS, Android, or both.

Key Considerations When Picking a Tech Stack

Let’s dive into the options and what you should think about when deciding which tools to use.

Platform Options

Native Development

Languages:

iOS: Swift or Objective-C

Android: Kotlin or Java

Pros:

Best-in-class performance.

Full access to device features like cameras, sensors, and GPS.

Cons:

Higher costs.

Longer development time if building for both iOS and Android.

2. Cross-Platform Development

Frameworks:

React Native (JavaScript and React)

Flutter (Dart)

Xamarin (C#)

Pros:

Faster development.

Reusable code for both iOS and Android.

Generally lower costs.

Cons:

Slightly lower performance compared to native apps.

Limited access to some advanced native features.

3. Hybrid Development

Tools:

Ionic (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)

PhoneGap/Cordova (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)

Pros:

Easy to learn and work with if you’re familiar with web development.

Leverages standard web technologies.

Cons:

Performance is not as strong as native or well-optimized cross-platform apps.

User experience can feel less “native.”

How to Make the Best Choice for Your App

Your decision will depend on several factors. Here are some key points to consider:

App Complexity:

For simple apps, cross-platform frameworks like React Native or Flutter are great choices.

For feature-heavy or complex apps, native development might be the way to go.

Time to Market:

If you’re on a tight schedule, cross-platform tools can speed up the process.

Budget:

Native development can be pricey since you’ll likely need separate teams for iOS and Android.

Cross-platform and hybrid options are usually more cost-effective.

Performance Needs:

Native apps deliver the best performance, but modern cross-platform frameworks have come a long way and can handle most needs efficiently.

Team Expertise:

Leverage the skills your team already has. If they’re experienced in JavaScript, for example, React Native might be a natural fit.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tech stack is a pivotal step in mobile app development. It’s about finding the perfect balance between your project’s requirements, your budget, and your team’s expertise. By weighing factors like app complexity, performance, and cost, you can make a well-informed choice that sets your app up for success. Remember, a solid tech stack is the foundation of a scalable, user-friendly, and high-quality app.

[voxxisms]

@staticintone is working with the vee's for a day !! [ cont. ]

     TWENTY - FOUR  HOURS  WAS  PLENTY.  it would be no small feat trying to show his work in a way properly to alastor,  but he had him on his side for the time being.  it might not have been entirely willing,  but he also at least hadn't been the one to issue the command.  just the one asking him to be nice.  he  ...   could pretend.  he could pretend it would all be nice  &&  dandy later,  too.  for now,  he could just appreciate having his presence in a place that he'd always hoped to have him.

        ❛  well,  there's a pretty robust schedule we can slot you into,  but i figure it might be best to just keep you with me rather than making you head off on your own.  the whole place can be a little bit of a maze,  if you don't wander around much to learn it.  so i got an extra desk set up around my office.  ❜

he led them both to the elevator,  pressing the button to take them up to it.  it was a quick ride,  &&  already vox was being bombarded when he reached the floor.

❛  vox,  sir,  the client for sixty - eight wants to ask you about the budget.  ❜

        ❛  tell them to check in on my availability with the receptionist.  ❜

❛  there's been a malfunction with channel six,  the tech agents aren't there right now,  who should we send?  ❜

        ❛  pull one of the interns from the basement,  &&  the lead from channel five,  i know they're on break,  tell them they'll get an early leave if they handle it within thirty minutes,  &&  i'll approve that saturday off they wanted.  ❜

❛  vox,  the newest client is demanding to speak to you now,  on the phone.  ❜

     vox sighed heavily,  pausing in his beeline for the office door.  so close.  he took the phone from the worker,  put on a bright smile  &&  voice smoothing over the clear irritation.  his hold on the frequency was less than it usually was,  given their recent talks,  so it did echo the true feelings fairly obviously.

        ❛  laurence,  hello,  you snagged me!  what can i do for you?  ...  no,  no,  that isn't going to be possible,  you know the schedule of that set location better than i do.  no,  no,  there is nothing i can do to change their mind,  i already did my best to.  ❜    the answer seemed to displease him,  &&  the shouting was easy to hear outside of the phone,  too.    ❛  look,  how about this?  i will move a few things around,  snag us an extra week there instead of longer hours in the day.  i know very well how to simulate the look you want,  i know it isn't perfect,  but it also wasn't originally in your package,  &&  since they're being so stubborn,  i'll toss it in with minimal upcharge.  yes,  exactly.  i'm glad we can reach a compromise,  thank you.  i will see you next week,  then.  ❜    he dropped the phone,  now ended with the call,  into the waiting hands of his worker,  who quickly skittered away to do some other job.

        ❛  sorry about that.  where were we?  right,  i have desk space for you set aside.  ❜

he was finally able to open the door to his office,  his wall of monitors  &&  shark tanks illuminated by light as they entered.  there was already an extra desk set up here,  with plenty of space,  a decent chair,  several things to make his job easier. 

        ❛  you're welcome to pick  &&  choose what you prefer to do.  i have some meetings to attend,  if you'd like to tag along,  that would be fine,  otherwise there is quite a lot to manage on the day - to - day.  there's a stack there that essentially lists out options for you,  &&  whatever you need,  you only need to send a message here or to me  &&  it'll be taken care of.  ❜    he handed him a small phone,  nothing fancier than what one may have had in the early 2000s.  there was only one contact,  labeled assistant.

[stuintern1]

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1. Comprehensive Curriculum: Our course covers the entire MERN stack—MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js—ensuring you acquire a thorough understanding of how each of them function together. Some areas that would be covered include:

MongoDB: Learn to design & then manage databases using this powerful NoSQL database.

Express.js: Understand how to build scalable web applications & the APIs with this minimalist web framework for Node.js.

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[theomenroom]

15 Questions for 15 Friends

I got tagged in this a month ago (thanks @incomprehensiblelentils) and have been meaning to do it for about as long.

ARE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? No? Almost? It's complicated.

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? I struggle to remember tbh.

DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Nope. Maybe someday.

WHAT SPORTS DO YOU PLAY/HAVE YOU PLAYED? I went to a kinda nerdy martial arts school for a bit in college.

DO YOU USE SARCASM? No, never, not in the least, where would you ever get that idea? (yes)

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? It varies. Hair, context, and clothes are how I remember them, though; I can't rememeber faces.

WHAT’S YOUR EYE COLOR? Blue

SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? If I have to choose, happy endings

ANY TALENTS? I habitually walk longer distances than people consider reasonable; I play the flute (sort of, sometimes), and I write.

WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Bay area, California

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? video games, writing, tumblr

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? I have a succulent! her name is Susie. Watering her every other week is about my limit for pet care.

HOW TALL ARE YOU? 1.9 meters

FAVOURITE SUBJECT? Math and math-y sciences

DREAM JOB? realistically? doing something in software development where I'm working in the middle of a tech stack making incremental improvements to things nobody but other devs knows about. unrealistically? making video games at a studio that has an unlimited budget and never needs to worry about funding

tagging @kiirasthursday @jonesinforjosie @hyenaswine @aspiewriter6390 @a-lil-bit-oooo-jessica @themself and anyone else who wants to can say I tagged them

[hashtechy]

Hashtechy | Best Platforms For Hiring Remote Developers

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the digital era, the demand for remote developers is soaring, and businesses are on the lookout for the best platforms to fulfill their tech needs. Today, we delve into the world of remote hiring, exploring the nuances of finding top-tier developers and the platforms that cater to this demand.

The Hashtechy Advantage

Understanding Hashtechy's Unique Approach

Hashtechy stands out as a trailblazer in the realm of hiring remote developers. With a commitment to excellence, this platform seamlessly connects businesses with a diverse pool of skilled professionals from around the globe. The distinctive features that set Hashtechy apart include:

Global Talent Pool: Hashtechy boasts a vast and diverse talent pool, allowing businesses to access developers with a wide range of expertise and specializations.

Efficient Matching Algorithms: The platform utilizes cutting-edge algorithms to ensure that businesses are paired with developers whose skills align perfectly with their project requirements.

Transparent Communication: Hashtechy prioritizes transparent communication, providing a robust interface for seamless interaction between businesses and remote developers.

Navigating the Remote Hiring Landscape

Best Platforms for Hiring Remote Developers

As businesses seek to navigate the dynamic landscape of remote hiring, it's essential to explore the various platforms available. While Hashtechy stands tall, several other platforms cater to the burgeoning demand for remote development talent. Let's dive into a comprehensive overview:

1. GitHub Jobs

GitHub, a renowned platform for code collaboration, extends its services to the job market with GitHub Jobs. This platform is a goldmine for businesses seeking developers who are not only skilled but also actively contributing to open-source projects.

2. Upwork

Known for its versatility, Upwork offers a vast pool of freelancers, including remote developers. Businesses can tap into Upwork's extensive network to find developers for projects of various scales and complexities.

3. Toptal

Toptal is synonymous with excellence in the world of remote development hiring. It prides itself on a rigorous screening process that ensures businesses connect with the top 3% of talent in the industry.

4. RemoteOK

As the name suggests, RemoteOK is dedicated to remote job opportunities. This platform simplifies the hiring process by providing a curated list of remote developer positions, making it easier for businesses to find the perfect match.

5. Stack Overflow Jobs

Stack Overflow, a go-to platform for developers seeking solutions, extends its offerings to job seekers and employers. Stack Overflow Jobs allows businesses to tap into a community of highly skilled developers actively engaged in problem-solving.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Factors to Consider when Hiring Remote Developers

While the aforementioned platforms offer a plethora of choices, making the right decision for your business requires careful consideration of various factors:

Skill Alignment: Ensure that the platform aligns with your business's specific tech requirements and the skill set you are seeking in a remote developer.

Budgetary Constraints: Evaluate the pricing models of each platform and choose one that aligns with your budget while offering quality services.

Community and Reviews: Explore the community and reviews associated with each platform. Platforms with a thriving community and positive reviews often indicate reliability and trustworthiness.

Security Measures: Given the sensitive nature of tech projects, prioritize platforms that implement robust security measures to protect your intellectual property.

In Conclusion

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the importance of hiring remote developers cannot be overstated. Hashtechy and other platforms mentioned provide a gateway to a global pool of talent, empowering businesses to elevate their tech endeavors. Whether you choose GitHub Jobs, Upwork, Toptal, RemoteOK, or Stack Overflow Jobs, each platform has its unique strengths, catering to the diverse needs of businesses seeking remote development talent.

[connectinfo1999]

Looking For A Full Stack Development Service Offered by Connect Infosoft Tech Pvt. Ltd.

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The team at Connect Infosoft Technologies Pvt. Ltd has 23+ years of experience in mobile app development. Our team of experienced Full Stack Developers is adept at creating custom software solutions that meet the unique requirements of your business.

With Full Stack Development Service, businesses can create highly customized, powerful applications that will meet their specific needs. Furthermore, a full stack development service offers the expertise and resources necessary to ensure that any project is delivered on time and within budget. Ultimately, full stack development services provide businesses with the means to innovate and stay competitive in an ever-changing market.

The Benefits of Hiring a Full Stack Developer: • Versatility. • Efficiency. • Expertise in multiple languages. • E-Commerce Development.

Some of the Full Stack Development services offered by Connect Infosoft include: • Custom Web Development. • E-commerce Solution. • API Integrations. • Mobile App Development. • UI/UX Design.

Kindly pen us with your exact requirements at info@connectinfosoft.com and we will give you our best and accurate quote as quickly as possible.