#Angus trim

[kultofathena]

The Milan Sword has a hot-peen construction that melds the blade and hilt together at the pommel and gives this sword a very strong and lasting hilt construction. The crossguard and pommel are crafted from steel with an antiqued finish and the grip is carved from Poplar and tightly bound in leather to complete the sword.

[terezis]

ok here's the hot goss from the nycc taz gn panel

i don't actually know whether or not it was recorded/ if they're going to put it online so here is my summary. also if i miss anything and u were there pls feel free to chime in. spoilers obviously!!!

got eight new preview pages (four two-page spreads), not the pages on the macmillan website!!!

ok i will tell u about those pages but the main thing discussed at the panel was how they went about adapting this arc into gn form. the actual time spent in wonderland has been trimmed a lot bc they had to think about what was actually important to the narrative as they are building to story and song.

basically in planning out the suffering game they also really had to decide what the rest of the series would look like, bc whatever they include now is seeding the stuff that's going to happen later.

cam is not in this book. it was implied there's less wheel spins. rowan/ash/sterling get much less screen time

almost half of this book is lunar interlude stuff (pre and post suffering game, INCLUDING REUNION TOUR!!! no word on where it ends but they made it clear that a LOT of thought went into what to include and where to end it, and what that would mean for the next book)

ok so about those preview pages

first one was post-taakitz date with kravitz sensing a lich and the umbra staff shooting at him <3 <3 <3

i thought they were going to show us the preview pages that were on macmillan so when i saw kravitz i was so shook

second spread was magnus visiting the voidfish, which now happens right before they leave for wonderland; the whole beginning of tsg from magnus trying to talk to pringles to him kidnapping those guards to the chimera fight was cut LOL bc it never really got… addressed again in the podcast

angus comes to get him for the mission but magnus has been going Through It (outright stated, they were like. he found out he's a red robe. he would probably not be handling it well. he has eyebags now. LOL) and snaps at angus when angus presses him on what's wrong.

more angus content, he will be investigating what's going on at the bureau more (his scene w magnus ties into this)

same for lucretia! more content/ stuff for her to do

third spread was merle w his kids getting saved by the red robe, is at a carnival instead of a random street this time LOL

last one was the boys arriving just outside of wonderland

wonderland looks fuckign cool

what else… oh confirmed like eighty panels of bare ass naked magnus after he gets his body back. so i think we really are getting the full reunion tour this book???

ALSO NAKED BARRY COVERED IN SLIME. WHEN HE GETS OUT OF THE POD. CONFIRMED. CANON. LOL

omg ALSO!!! ben (editor) said he campaigned REALLY HARD to have the umbra staff break during the suffering game, freeing lup early, bc he really wanted more time with her, but griffin campaigned really hard NOT to do this, and in doing so his arguments solved a lot of other problems they had been having at the time LOL

travis is the fans' champion when the others get too edit-happy. he's the one who has a good idea of what moments are important to the readers so he's like hey… too far. don't cut that. and then they don't

justin leaves great notes and when they couldn't figure stuff out ben would often say "no it's fine justin will solve this." and he ALWAYS DID

this was news to justin

??? i think that's all the main points honestly i'm v picky about adaptations but overall i feel like these are good changes that make sense when translating the podcast to gn

that said i do hope taako still gets a washing machine dropped on him <3 do this for me carey <3

[rainbowstargazerlilies]

IT CAN NOW BE REVEALED

Over the last week or two, I made around 10 different dolls as a surprise present for @honey-beesknees. They're all characters from The Adventure Zone (Balance), an arc I've never listened to. (Of the adventure zone, I've listened to like six episodes of Amnesty, all after starting this project). These were made with love, care, and many many references given and questions asked of my sister @ladydragonkiller. Special thanks to her as well for finishing Angus there on her train ride.

Anyway, they were delivered today!

Random pictures from the making process under the cut:

Umbrella size check with Lup for Taako

My color palette for all these :)

Magnus's hair pre-trimming it down

Magnus and a still-in-progress Merle's size difference

A slightly more put together Merle.

Fun little details that I didn't get pictures of: Taako and Lup have similar embroidery on cloak and skirt: Lup's was meant to emulate fire, with orange triangles, yellow lines, and blue dots underneath. Taako's was a color-reversal, kind of, with blue and purple lines and triangles and red dots. Taako's umbrella is a cocktail umbrella, and I'm still so happy that worked. Barry's hood's pattern is pulled from a sock heel. Anyway, I had fun, and I'm so glad they turned out well :)

[blouisparadise]

Since there are too many amazing BL canon fics to count, we decided to make a third part to our canon rec list. You can find the part one here and part two here. Happy reading!

1) Just A Trim | Explicit | 2260 words

The one where Harry gets a haircut, and Louis, along with the rest of the world, loses his mind.

2) Lips Are Like The Galaxy’s Edge | Explicit | 2360 words

Harry licks over Louis’ hole slowly, deliberately, and his tongue is like velvet and Louis’ skin is burning at every junction where Harry touches him and it’s all so good he thinks he might cry. He licks a few more times, moaning softly like he’s relishing the taste of Louis and that’s just, well, fuck.

3) What’s Yours Is Mine (What’s Mine Is Ours) | Explicit | 2982 words

Prompt: Something about Louis always waiting until the last minute to pack his bag for tour so one time Harry does it for him and then they’re thousands of miles away by the time Louis figures out Harry hasn’t actually packed anything useful. Whether it’s because Harry is just genuinely useless at packing for other people or because he wants Louis to be forced to wear his clothes is up in the air. Also Louis refusing to wear Harry’s clothes out of pure spite until Harry makes it up to him.

4) A Touch Of Your Love | Explicit | 3856 words

Harry’s physical training has been intense. He wakes up before the sun to run. He spends long hours in the gym boxing and lifting weights.

Louis usually likes working out with Harry when they’re on tour, and even now he enjoys going on a run or boxing a bit with Harry. But Harry hasn’t seemed to stop moving since he accepted the role in Dunkirk. And it’s not that Louis always needs to be the center of Harry’s attention, but he very much wants to be. 

5) Power Inside | Explicit | 5861 words

Louis wrinkles his nose and pokes Harry again. “You want a baby,” he repeats.

Again, Harry frowns. “Uh, yeah, Lou, I want a baby. So do you.”

Where is this even going. Harry honestly has no clue.

Abruptly, Louis stops frowning and practically throws himself off of Harry, splaying himself out on his side of the bed, arms spread wide. “Okay. Let’s make a baby, then.”

Can eyebrows get permanently attached to a hairline? Harry has a feeling he’s going to find out. “You do realize - ” he starts.

“Yes, Harry, I realize,” Louis says, stroking his fingers over the inside of his own thigh, ruking his shorts up. “You gonna shut up about it and give me a baby or am I gonna have to go out and find someone else to fulfill my deepest desires?”

He’s a nutjob. He’s a complete nutjob. Harry’s in love with a complete nutjob.

6) Heart Beats Slow (I Wish You) | Explicit | 6011 words

“These,” Louis pauses with a half-eaten toast in his hand and a stale bite of buttery bread still in his mouth, he feels like choking on it, “are girl’s pants. Why would I look good in girl’s pants? Do you not like my current choice in underwear or what?”

7) Want It All The Time, Need It Every Day | Explicit | 6306 words

Louis visits LA a week before the boys head to Australia for On The Road Again.

He and Harry have some catching up to do.

8) You Drive Me Wild (You Know You Do) | Explicit | 6632 words

Their management informs them that they have an interview right before the ARIAs, and it isn't until he's in a suit, seated on a couch between Liam and Zayn, that he gets the idea.

The interviewer, Angus, smiles at them, right before the cameras roll on, and a metaphorical light bulb goes off inside Louis' head. He's perfect. Well, not as perfect as Harry, but enough. He's attractive, attractive enough to drive Harry crazy, and he doesn't even think of the consequences of his actions, just decides right then. It's all Harry's fault anyway. Louis should be allowed to have a little fun.

9) I’m Broken, Do You Hear Me? | Explicit | 6957 words

Louis starts acting weird and distant around Harry, and it takes Harry a little while to put together what's wrong. When he finally does, he's determined to help Louis see just how much he loves every piece of him.

10) Glimpse Of The Silhouettes | Explicit | 7181 words

Harry isn't sure what the rules are for this. It's hard to believe that there are any, that's there's a handbook just waiting for him to buy: why is my best mate getting hard in my lap when I touch his arse?

11) Call Me Shallow But I’m Only Getting Deeper | Explicit | 7367 words

The one where Louis is a brat so Harry spanks him with a riding crop.

12) I’m An Addict Of Magic, And I Need My Fix | Explicit | 7994 words

Harry surprises Louis in Los Angeles while Louis is there on tour. Smut ensues of course and Harry goes a little overboard with marking Louis up with hickies. Louis ends up having to wear a turtleneck onstage to hide all of the marks littered around his neck and body.

13) Under the Vanilla Sky | Explicit | 8006 words

Note: This fic is locked and can only be read by AO3 users.

Who the hell wears a hat like that on a yacht?  That's one of the things Louis thinks when he sees Harry from across the deck of the most expensive, ridiculous boat he's ever been on.  He also thinks he'd like to get closer.  Just to see what's under those aviators.  Just to verify that, yes, in fact, those white swim trunks might be a little see-through when wet.  Just to see if someone could really be that hot in real life.  On a yacht.  In the Caribbean sea just off the coast of St. Barts. 

Here's what really happened on that yacht.

14) Reminiscing The Other Day | Explicit | 8317 words

Harry's invited to a wedding, and there's only so much Louis can hide.

15) Anything Goes | Explicit | 10275 words

Harry probably shouldn't be amused that Louis has a death grip on his hand and is dragging away from an event that, you know, they should be at. And he still probably shouldn't have that god awful smirk plastered to his face when Louis shoves him into the bathroom and steps in before locking the door.

16) The Sweat On Your Skin | Explicit | 11014 words

Louis is certain there's no better way to come down from a post-gym high than a naked romp in the bed with his favorite workout partner.

17) Cut To The Bone | Explicit | 11133 words

Harry celebrates his birthday in Japan. Louis stays with him.

18) Fumbling in the Dark | Explicit | 21599 words

Louis is straight, Harry is not. They still shag a lot.

19) Another Day Gettin’ Into Trouble | Explicit | 25619 words

Harry’s drunk when the idea occurs to him. He’s also a pop star, so sometimes his drunk ideas turn into actual things instead of just ideas. The clone-a-willy kit is one of them.

In Harry’s defense, when he first thinks about it his intention is just to buy the kit and give it to Louis to make his own dildo with, because that’s what he wants anyway, right? To have a penis filling him up?

Then he realizes that it would be weird if Louis made a copy of his own dick to fuck himself with. It’d be super weird. Louis fucking himself? That’s a weird idea. Harry’s pretty sure Louis wouldn’t like that.

Clearly the only solution here is to use his own dick for the mold.

20) Something In The World Today | Explicit | 48027 words

It shouldn’t be a surprise, the first time that Louis drops to his knees in front of Harry. It shouldn’t be, because it’s been something that Louis has needed for a long time. It shouldn’t be, because he’s been crawling out of his skin for weeks on end. It shouldn’t be, because Harry always makes him feel better. It shouldn’t be, because he’s needed this even when he didn’t know that he needed it.

Somehow, it still is.

Check out our other fic rec lists by category here and by title here.

[langernameohnebedeutung]

I talked before about how the story trims the McDonough family line neatly down to the male line (what's even the name of Blaine's mother? What about her parents/his paternal grandparents?) - but also, what about his paternal grandmother? Like...we obviously hear about his grandfather/Angus' father, but never about Angus' mother. Was she already dead by the time her husband was declared mentally unfit? (and if yes, how did she die? Natural death?) Did she divorce him long before? (Blaine certainly never mentions her the way he mentions his grandfather, which means either she was gone or he didn't have any meaningful relationship with her but also not bad enough for him to mention). Did she just...leave the family after her son's coup and is living out her old age somewhere? Seriously, I need the details here.

[scapegrace74-blog]

The Man from Black Water, Chapter 11

A/N  This is the scene from the movie I was most excited to put into words (and into Scotland), and I’m really happy with how it turned out.  In it, Claire learns just how inhospitable the Highlands can be.

Also, I belatedly noticed that I’d left Rollo out of the action in Chapter 10.  I’ll be going back to fix that oversight, but only on the AO3 version of the story.

“I don’t understand,” Henry Beauchamp said plaintively, mostly to himself.  “She’s never done anything like this before.”

Netherton Estate had been in an uproar since breakfast time when Claire’s absence was discovered.   A search of the outbuildings yielded no sign of the young woman save for an empty stall where her riding horse was usually found.

“I want the men saddled up and ready to ride in twenty minutes,” Henry demanded of Dougal Mackenzie.

“They’ll be nae use tae us,” Dougal explained with a shake of his head.

“The weather is starting to turn,” Henry muttered, continuing to stride towards the stables.  When Dougal didn’t immediately follow, he wheeled on him.

“What are you waiting for, a written invitation?”

“The men arenna any use tae us.  They’ve been drinking since they got back from the muster.”

Furious, the landowner stalked into the bunkhouse.  As predicted, the stockhands were in various stages of unconsciousness.  Henry lifted Angus from his bunk by his waistcoat and shook him hard, but the small man showed no signs of life beyond a noxious belch.

Black Jack snored loudly in his bunk, but the fact he was beneath his blankets showed some promise.

“Wake up, Auld Man,” Dougal shouted as he grasped the worker by the shoulder.

Coming to wakefulness in one startled gasp, Black Jack had his knife against the overseer’s throat before his eyes were fully open.

“It wasna me!” he asserted.

Dougal coolly brushed the knife away.

“Ye best be careful what ye say in yer sleep,” he advised. “Claire has gone an’ got herself lost. I need a tracker, and ye’re it.”

“I canna see tae find my boots,” Black Jack protested as he stumbled to his feet.

“Then go without them!”

***

As the morning wore on, Claire frequently glanced back down the long glen, trying to determine if she was being followed.   While Jamie had described his farm as “up the Black Water”, she had no idea just how great that distance might be.  She was riding along the side of the old military road, which in turn followed the western bank of the swiftly flowing River Shee.  Stopping at noontime to eat some bread and cheese pilfered from the Netherton kitchen, Claire considered her plight.

There was no way to know where Jamie had gone to search for her father’s cattle.  In the absence of a fixed destination, she’d been navigating blindly in the direction of his croft, hoping by some miracle to run across him, or at least another Highlander who might know his whereabouts.

Instead, the valley stretched endless and empty.  The mountains on either side of the road grew in height until they obscured the rapidly setting sun, and the lowland housed only herds of sheep and the occasional stone ruin, the hollow remnants of a community long since scattered. To make matters worse, it was getting steadily colder, with a sharp wind that sliced straight through her fur-trimmed winter cloak.  An occasional snowflake melted as it met her cheek.

After countless miles, the military road veered sharply north, fording the river on an elegant stone bridge before rising into a steep-sided vale.  A narrow track followed the river as it continued westward, and it was on this that Claire turned, certain that Jamie hadn’t mentioned crossing a mountain pass to reach his home.  The track forked, then forked again.  With each split it grew fainter, the heather and gorse on either side rising above Kip’s knees.

A sudden gust of icy wind blew back the hood of Claire’s cloak. Lifting her eyes from the futile search for a clear path, she realized with dismay that it was nearly dark, and that it had begun to snow heavily.  Eerie howls came out of the dark, scaring Kip, who began to toss her head and whicker in fear.

“Come on, Kip” Claire called into the wind, trying to urge the terrified horse forward.  Normally docile as a lamb, the grey mare locked her knees, refusing to budge another step.

Now truly alarmed, Claire dismounted and tried to drag her mount forward by the reins.  The storm had descended with incredible ferocity, submerging the pair in constant eddies of white.  Claire thought she could make out a solid black shadow just off the path, its outlines reminiscent of a house.

“Jamie!” she cried, even though no light emerged from the structure.  Only the shriek of the wind answered back.

“Kip, we have to go!”   Claire leaned into the wind, desperately trying to drag her horse forwards. The mare reared, rolling her eyes in terror.  The reins gave way, and Claire fell backwards.   Instead of solid earth, she descended through space, arms windmilling wildly and a truncated scream frozen in her throat.

The ground rose up from the dark abyss.  She landed hard against her back, knocking the air from her lungs.  All around was a vast emptiness that she knew instinctively signified death.  Clinging to the rock face beneath her body with every ounce of strength she possessed, Claire Beauchamp began to pray.

***

His plaid was covered with four inches of fresh snow when Jamie and Rollo woke the following morning, but the sky was iridescent blue.  The storm had blown itself out and the Highlands were adorned in their finest silver raiment.

After a hasty cup of coffee and a bannock for breakfast, the young man saddled Donas and began the slow descent into the valley below, letting Rollo driving the cows before them.  The snow would slow their progress, but Jamie couldn’t find it in himself to mind.

If he hadn’t been looking about him at the majesty of his birthplace, he might have missed the footprints, obscured as they were by windblown drifts. A single horse passing over the mountain during the night was an oddity, but these tracks indicated an animal moving at great speed along the edge of a steep corrie.  Unable to quell a chill of dread, Jamie abandoned the cows to Rollo’s care and followed the mysterious trail.

A quarter mile later, he came across the body of a dead horse at the base of a small cliff.  As he approached, horror rose in his throat as he recognized the familiar saddle and dapple-grey markings of Claire Beauchamp’s favourite mare.

“Claire?” he wheezed, spinning around in circles as though she might suddenly materialize from the rock.

“Claire!” he cried out, heart racing so quickly he could feel his pulse hammering in his neck.

Spurring Donas uphill, he retraced his steps, galloping heedless through the herd of cattle and scattering them like thistle down.  Rollo barked madly and chased after him.  

Kip’s hoofprints followed the contour of the plateau, softly rounded to the east but falling away sharply away to a steep north facing cliff.

“Claire!” he screamed repeatedly, wame churning with utter devastation as he thought of her being lost, injured, or worse.

“Claire!” he bellowed from the ridgetop.  “Sassenach!”   Rollo sniffed the air and whined.

“Help,” a gust of air replied, so faint he thought he might have imagined it.  “Help me,” the air pled, slightly louder.

Jamie rushed towards the sound, struggling not to slip and fall over the cliff himself.  Louder and louder the cries for aid grew until at last they rose from directly beneath his feet.   Lying on his belly in the snow, Jamie peered over the edge and was met by the most glorious sight of his young life.  Golden eyes, framed by wild knots of brown hair, stared back up at him from a narrow ledge some ten feet down.  Beyond the ledge lay emptiness, the valley floor far below.

“Sassenach!  Dinna move. I’ll pull ye up.”

Running on numb legs, Jamie fetched his stock whip from his saddle and returned to the cliff.  Wrapping the thong several times around his wrist, he lowered the butt end carefully until it was within reach of Claire’s icy hands.  Using every ounce of his strength, he steadily pulled backwards until her body lay beside him the snow, both gasping and crying by turns.

“Are ye alright, Sassenach?” he asked frantically.  “Ye’re no’ hurt?”

Claire shook her head where it lay on his outstretched arm, but her lips were an alarming shade of blue against the parchment white of her skin. Her pupils were so large they almost obscured the golden rim, and she stared at him with disbelief, as though he might be a ghost.

“Come, lass,” he urged.  “We must get ye someplace warm.”

Lifting the young Englishwoman onto Donas’ back, Jamie steered his horse down the long ridge and towards the glen floor, his ever-loyal dog in tow. He spoke constantly, in Gaelic, English and Latin; anything to tether the frozen woman to consciousness.  For her part, Claire mumbled indistinctly and shivered so hard it made his teeth rattle.  Occasionally she would jolt as though stung and call out his name.

“Where are you taking me?” she asked in a rare moment of lucidity.

“Back home,” Jamie replied.  “I’m takin’ ye tae Lallybroch.”

[a-m-pyra]

Hargreaves heard a voice that surely should belong to the woman he was looking for. Enraged, yelling at the orphanage director to stop being a coward and let her meet with a girl named Alice.

Moving on, he saw a dark red dress trimmed with black lace. Her red hair down past her shoulder blades and her curvy build made him think he was headed for the right person.

"Excuse me, Miss Seymour?"

"Yes, what…" The woman turned around, stopping mid-sentence, and looked him over, recognizing at once that he was a police officer. "Oh, great, and you're going to arrest me."

"I'm sorry… What?"

"Nevermind," she reached into her small purse, "everyone has their price." She pulled out about a hundred and fifty pounds for him. "Is that enough?"

He dropped her hand, and Miss Seymour looked at him in confusion.

"I didn't come to arrest you."

She raised her eyebrows and shifted from foot to foot.

"It changes things." She put the money away and placed her hands on her hips, tilting them to the left. "So what do you want?"

Hargreaves looked up to see Angus Bumby peering at them from behind the curtain.

He pointed to the exit, and Seymour looked out the window once more as she left, giving Bumby the middle finger.

"So going back…" she began, strolling through the east end and the fun district. "You didn't answer me."

"Bumby, Radcliffe and Splatter seem to have been throwing you around long enough. I came with a business proposal."

"Excellent. So let's go to a more secluded place, we have got a lot to talk about, Mr…"

Hargreaves stood in front of her and held out his hand.

"Reginald Hargreaves. At your service."

She grabbed his hand and shook it, smiling slightly at him.

[saintdelilah]

I swear if they don't keep Angus's beard trimmed next season we're gonna catch hands

[amethyst42]

List 5 things that make you happy, then put this in the askbox for the last 10 people who liked or reblogged something from you! Get to know your mutuals and followers 💚

Iggy Angus Spence Viola my seestor (if we're going for not-people...) smell of lilacs birds twittering smell of hot coffee roast turkey with all the trimmings kittypurrs

[kultofathena]

Vision - The Strasbourg Longsword with Scabbard – Brown Collaboratively Crafted by Angus Trim and Valiant Armoury

The Valiant Armoury X Angus Trim Vision Line is a collaborative effort between famed swordmakers Angus Trim and Valiant Armoury. Models will be released in limited batches. After a production run, the model will not be available again for another 12 to 24 months. There are no pre-orders for these items.

Vision creates premium, entirely made in the USA swords that meld Trim’s magnificently optimized performance blades with the hilt design, robust construction and superior leatherwork that is the hallmark of Sonny and Zach Suttles at Valiant Armoury. The final product preserves the ideal blade harmonics and balance needed for each sword to perform to its fullest potential and is a heirloom-tier sword.

The blade of the Strasbourg Longsword is well suited to sweeping cuts and powerful, piercing thrusts alike and is crafted from 5160 high carbon steel with a spring-tempered hardness of 51-53 HRc. The fish-tail pommel provides a surprisingly convenient handhold and effectively acts as a extension to the grip that can be gripped for extra leverage.  A hot-peen construction that melds the blade and hilt together at the pommel gives it a very strong and lasting hilt construction. The crossguard and pommel are crafted from steel with an antiqued finish and the grip is carved from Poplar and tightly bound in black leather to complete the sword.

The matching scabbard for the Strasbourg is a wood-core scabbard that is wrapped in top-grain leather and paired with a sword belt of thick leather. The chape and other metal fittings are of metal and the buckles are reinforced with steel tongues for durability.

[houseofgerrard]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: RODARTE Paisley Sheath Lace Dress Medium.

[mytipson]

Understanding the Cost of Beef Brisket per Pound: Factors and Considerations

The cost of beef brisket per pound is influenced by various factors that reflect market dynamics, quality, and consumer demand. Let's explore the key considerations that contribute to the pricing of beef brisket:

Quality and Grade: The quality and grade of beef brisket significantly impact its price per pound. Brisket is typically graded based on factors such as marbling, tenderness, and overall quality. Higher-grade briskets, such as USDA Prime or Choice, command a premium price due to their superior taste and texture.

Cut and Trim: The specific cut and trimming process also influence the cost of beef brisket. Whole briskets may include both the flat and point cuts, with variations in fat content and meat distribution. Trimmed briskets, which have excess fat removed, may be priced higher due to the labor involved in preparation.

Market Demand and Supply: Like any commodity, the price of beef brisket is subject to fluctuations in supply and demand. Seasonal factors, holidays, and special events can drive increased demand for brisket, leading to higher prices. Conversely, periods of oversupply may result in lower prices as producers seek to clear inventory.

Regional Variations: The cost of beef brisket per pound can vary significantly based on geographical location and regional market conditions. Urban areas or regions with higher demand for barbecue and smoked meats may command higher prices for brisket compared to rural or less densely populated areas.

Processing and Distribution Costs: The cost of processing, packaging, and distribution also contributes to the overall price of beef brisket. Factors such as transportation expenses, labor costs, and overheads incurred by meat processors and distributors impact the final retail price passed on to consumers.

Certifications and Labels: Beef brisket that carries certifications such as USDA Organic, Grass-fed, or Certified Angus Beef (CAB) may be priced higher due to the additional standards and requirements associated with these labels. Consumers willing to pay a premium for organic, grass-fed, or specialty brisket may encounter higher per-pound prices.

Butcher or Retail Markup: The markup applied by butchers, specialty meat shops, and retailers also influences the cost of beef brisket per pound. While wholesale prices may fluctuate based on market conditions, retailers often add a margin to cover operating expenses, overhead costs, and profit margins.

Preparation and Cooking Methods: Consumers should consider not only the cost per pound of beef brisket but also the potential yield and serving sizes when planning meals and recipes. Proper preparation and cooking methods can maximize the value and enjoyment of brisket while minimizing waste and excess expense.

In conclusion, the cost of beef brisket per pound reflects a complex interplay of factors including quality, market dynamics, regional variations, and processing costs. By understanding these considerations, consumers can make informed purchasing decisions and appreciate the value and versatility of beef brisket as a centerpiece of flavorful and satisfying meals.

[thehungrykat1]

Celebrate the Yuletide in Gatsby Style at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

Marco Polo Ortigas Manila presents fine traditional Christmas and New Year fares with a heavy dose of the season’s nostalgia this festive season. The wonderful 1920s comes to life at the hotel, where holiday merriment plays centerstage for all until 02 January 2024. Decked tastefully for the occasion, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila has prepared its restaurants and bars with offerings to warmly welcome revelers for distinct moments to mark the season.

A decadent buffet spread is the highlight in Cucina all-day dining restaurant on 24, 25 and 31 December, as well as 01 January, which includes a prized tomahawk, festive turkey with traditional trimmings and pudding, to go with the restaurant’s celebrated best-tasting grill selections, succulent greens, and more. Patrons may elevate their buffet enjoyment with an add-on Beverage Package for sodas, house wine, and juices, or make it a truly exceptional affair with free-flow Prosecco.

The hotel’s award-winning Cantonese restaurant, Lung Hin, impresses with its opulent yuletide set menus for five and ten diners, featuring fresh seafood, choice meats, full-flavored soups and scrumptious desserts. The Connect Lounge serves Gatsby-themed cocktails appropriately named Myrtle’s Dress, Daisy Buchanan and Spritz Gerald, to match the flair and style of the grand era from 06 November.  For that thoughtful gift,  Marco Polo Ortigas Manila brings back its sought-after hampers, filled with a quality selection of fine food, wine and treats to delight families and friends.  Choose between Premium Hamper or the Deluxe Hamper, available in Café Pronto.

For those who chose to revel in exclusivity, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila is opening its Continental Club Lounge on the 44th floor with stunning views over the Ortigas skyline and Rizal Mountains.  Enjoy a superb four-course set dinner on New Years Eve with a mouthwatering menu that includes Japanese Wagyu Beef Carpaccio and a 24-hour Angus Braised Short Ribs, complemented by Aged Cognac Lobster Bisque Cappuccino, and capped off with Gianduja Chocolate Mousse, and Panettone Crumble Orange Vanilla Sauce. The meal comes with a glass of Rothbury Chiraz or Chardonnay, to complement a fine dining experience. Partygoers can ring in the New Year at Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge on 31 December, set to an exciting evening of live music, gilded 1920s inspired cocktails, a cool party vibe with a magnificent view of the cityscape from the 45th floor.

Experience a delightful staycation at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila with friends and family this Christmas and New Year. Discover special room offerings by calling  (+63 2 7720 7777). For more information about Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s yuletide celebration, access their e-brochure at https://bit.ly/MPOMVeryGatsbyChristmas .

[bureauofoverbalence]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/32855515/chapters/131506480

Not to be Confused with a 'Coffee Shop AU' : New Update . rest of chapter under the cut or follow the link for the full thing.

chapter 21 Secret Drinks Menu.

Mrs Cosie is flattered; but mostly baffled. And she gives Angus many many “What on Faerun-?” looks.

Angus can only shrug and make a “These crazy customers, right?” smiles right back.

It kind of works. There is after all an awful lot of weirdos in the neighbourhood. Even more so since he started working here.

Its as if Everyone he’s ever met seems to be rocking up to Neverwinter. Especially to check out the Old Mill Tearooms.

“Heeeey Aaaangus.”

It is a good and a bad thing Mrs Cosie had asked him to sweep the front steps. Good because his colleagues don’t see him look up squatting from his dustpan. Bad because it means he looks like a real plonker, even from her height.

Mavis. Or more Mavis and a large group of giggly friends, mostly girls. And a dwarven woman supervising Angus assumes to be Hecuba and some other mothers.  They’re making a weekend of a big city trip out combining some eighteenth birthday party or another with Looking at the universities. 

Which of course had open days on at the same time. Angus himself had set up the Murder Mysteries Club and   Caleb Cleveland: Kid Cop fan club booths last night ready for it. And now it turns out the big table with RESERVED at the back of the shop for ‘an afternoon tea with all the trimmings’ for a party of twelve that Angus had got ready was also for them too.

Angus had an odd sort of not quite rivalry with his ‘other cousin’ Mavis. Not like a prank war or anything academic. But they’d been very competitive over things like how many books the other had read over summer or who’s dad did the craziest thing last. It was friendly. Sweet even. but there was always some sort of catty underlying competition of trying to get one up on each other. 

Mookie isn’t with her at least, (her brother maybe older now. But even as a tween he is still as ever a rowdy little scamp.) And Mavis is Nothing like Magnus or Taako. Mavis didn’t even draw attention after hello. 

She doesn’t have to. When back inside and sat down eating, her friends are Twisting around in their seats Looking, whispering and giggling. At Angus. Or about him.

More so as the attention causes Angus to blush and sweat and fumble and screw up orders. 

“What's that buzzing noise?” asked Pam, confused.

The buzzing noise is Angus’s pocket. Because his stone is blowing up. Mavis unfortunately seems to have given out his stone frequency. Absolutely not okay. And it’s going off like billy-o. Which is distracting, even on vibrate. Angus had only had it on him not in his locker because he’s been waiting on a call from Professor Miller about his latest mock exam scores. He has to turn it off in the end. Lucas is very unimpressed to be left to go to voicemail.

Lucretia and the Bob Squad return too. With extra Robbie. Well sort of.  thankfully not on that same day as the Mavis incident. And also, thankfully separately rather than a big group. AND a lot more meekly, too.

Team Sweet Flips are trying to go for a covert thing? Wearing everyday clothes and trying not to be noticed.  or at least pass for a totally normal Orc and Dragonborn couple. Carey even keeps her hands to herself, hoping to get on Mrs Cosie's good side.  It doesn’t work. Mrs Cosie, on recognising them instantly, tracks their every movement from her stance in the kitchen doorway; to make sure there’s no misbehaviour. Even if the wives are just on a coffee date.

Avi calls in the next day. He makes finger guns at Angus as he passes him cleaning tables. Which was cool. And makes a joke about ‘rough day at the office’ and hip flasks and spiking his drink. A joke that doesn’t sit right with the nervous but prim Dotty who gives him his drink. Which wasn’t as cool. Angus knew Avi didn’t mean it that way. But the impression that the guy in charge of firing people earthside is an alcoholic or working while drunk can’t look good for the BOB.

Robbie leans on the counter as he orders three cakes to himself, and he hasn’t brushed his teeth again. Which wasn’t a complaint on Robbie’s cleanliness, just the fact the guy ate a ton of raw garlic nowadays. Something to do with being worried about getting possessed again. (thanks Barry!) Angus tries really hard not to wrinkle his nose, even with his customer service voice. But he can’t help but cough when Robbie leaves the café for a smoke outside, sticking to high heaven of pipe weed when he comes back in. Robbie doesn’t so much eat the cakes as mostly just make a mess of crumbs. He does however make a half assed attempt to sweep up after himself. and curiously, is greeted warmly by Mrs Cosie with many tellings-off (affectionate).

When Angus mentions it to Florence between classes the next time he sees her, Flo dishes the lukewarm goss.

“Pringles? Lovely guy. We even dated for a bit.  and I still go to his sister’s candle nights parties. He and Ms Cosies are fourth cousins three times removed? He’s her favourite younger cousin though, she can never say no to him.”  Florence giggles. Then says very seriously. “I'm glad we don’t work together anymore, mind. You know he almost set the kitchen on fire? Got stoned on his break and let all the buns burn. I don’t know how he ever got into such a prestigious place as the Bureau!”

“Must be some really good reason.” Angus says. It’s true. No one had ever given him a straight answer on that. Only that Robbie was good at maths. And jokes about the Director needing a weed/ drugs guy.

“True. Can you imagine working with a guy like that though? On the Moon?” Flo laughs.

“Not really,” Angus laughs back. Which is also true, Angus can’t imagine. No word of a lie technically Robbie had been in jail the entire of Angus’s workings as a seeker. But he has heard enough stories…

Speaking of the Director and the moon base, Angus doesn’t see Lucretia. (Although they have arranged to have their own coffee and catch up for next week on the moon. it was supposed to be this week, but Lucretia’s schedule is more hectic and changeable then his own.) She must have come in on his day off as promised? and Angus has a horrible feeling both her and Lup have also been in together when he’s not there. There’s thankfully no more tales tipping five gold. 

but Mrs Cosie does get a delivery of fine spices, flours and herbs that she is adamant didn’t order, but someone else had already paid for. a gift it seems. It's almost a crate. It takes Angus, Dale Big Brenda and Gora’thien the Blood-Soaked to get it inside.

“there’s all sorts in there. All quality. Bulk bags and with a trade standard seal.” She says puzzled. Cosies’ old mill gets the odd delivery outside of its usual. sometimes even samples from other businesses or her suppliers giving her a freebie. Or a friend sending something for one of the many many halfling holidays? Candied ginger or Candied peel for example is traditionally sent out to one's far away friends and relatives when one is celebrating a birthday. (it's what keeps the shops ginger biscuits and orange cakes in such good supply!)

but never did the tea shop get sent this fancy or this much! Halfling Hospitality is very welcoming of gifts. But they are bit wary of surprises. Including surprises of massive parcels with no sender information to send a thank you note to. 

The itemised delivery form is passed around the staff as Mrs Cosie wonders if anyone knew who was behind it. Angus nearly shrieks when he sees the order. Not so much because of what is on it. But the so-called company making the delivery was from a certain Boob S. Quire.

A Boob S. Quire who signs their name in very familiar neat print with a flourish on the first letter.

Angus has to go out back, and physically bite into his hat in frustration, before returning to work like nothing had happened. Dammit Lucretia!

Brad is the only normal one of the bunch. Well as near normal as an orc in a polo shirt can be. although it does seem like he’s flirting with Quorf the Sorcerer as he takes his order. Brad orders flat white to go, pays, and comments on the weather to the person behind him in the queue. and only gives Angus a spell of encouraging bardic inspiration. Subtle. He then smiles bye and drops a few bronze coins in the tip jar before he leaves. Like a normal fucking person. Which in a way is worse! Because then Angus must put up with a lovesick Quorf the Sorcerer sighing for the rest of day. and wishing aloud repeatedly he’d given his stone number to the handsome orc dude. or gotten Angus to write it on his cup. It makes Dale very jealous all the while.

(Angus didn’t write Quorf the Sorcerer's number on the cup. but he does play matchmaker a little. He lets Brad know the Quorf called him handsome, works Wednesdays and his favourite band is the Spice Ghouls. But he doesn’t interfere further than that.)

It’s not just to the Birds, the High-Church’s or the BOB either.  Over the next few days, along with Taako (again) Angus sees every one he’s ever met. And then some he’s only heard of from Tres Horny Boys’ stories.

Hurley and Sloane, for example, walk into the shop both clad in beautiful spring blossoms. Angus didn’t think dryads could stray too far from their tree. Goldcliff was quite a ride away, wasn’t it? Or that dryads even drank tea. but never mind, they still ordered a pot of red bush tea and a jango cake each.

June and Paloma are up in the city on holiday and like Magnus become very regular visitators over the week. Although Mrs Cosie doesn’t use magic in her actual baking, she and Paloma have some great chin wags lasting many an afternoon. and probably ended up on each other's Candle nights card lists.

Klarg and his bug-bear family do indeed like the tea shop. They also arrive with Jess the Beheader in tow all in their gear, between bouts and touring. They mob Angus much like the Bob did. And pile free merch and t-shirts on him and folks working or in line. Klarg must have tried at least fifteen different teas.

Graham in his polished train uniform, complete with Juicy on the pants, is now a regular. A regular who always always orders a horrible combination of drinks. He becomes the reason for Dale throwing the bottle of strawberry syrup (pump and all) out the back door with a call of “and stay out!”. Another time Graham the Juicy train Conductor comes in, he orders what he then christens a Mocci-mocca-do-dah. Twinkle tries making themselves the same drink to try it. It smells foul. and taste wise they, Angus and Ruby spend the shift feeling rather sick from it.

Garfield the Deals Warlock enters. He sees Angus wiping tables. And leaves the tearoom with a loud, “NOPE. NO THANK YOU.”

And not five minutes after another Taako visit, Lucas fucking Miller shows up.

He doesn’t do or say anything in particular. or even acknowledge Angus, bar a hello. Or do anything to make it clear he was a headmaster or Miller of miller Tech. But he is an irritating person and thus an irritating patron just by being himself.

Ren returns. this time with Mayor Cassidy in tow. Or more, on her arm. If it’s a coffee date, then angus is happy for them. but did it have to be on one of his shifts?!

And then there’s that One guy. The vibes are bad. Even after he leaves…

Then there’s a customer that Angus is sure is a reporter asking silly questions. but Angus is quick to avoid him. Only to then sigh as another customer asks, “when will Magnus be back?” when Angus tries to take their order. Folk i.e. fans have come to the tea shop because they heard Burnsides was there last week and are expecting him to return. 

Some people, strangers, have also noticed a pattern of when Kravitz or Lup will come in too. something Angus had been dreading. Bird spotters have started popping in. or just standing outside not ordering anything. Which was weird and bad for business. Two even come in cosplay.

One creep even has an autograph book. and maybe twigging that ‘Ang from the tea shop’ is also Angus the world's greatest detective, Taako’s apprentice, the unofficial eighth or ninth bird, said creep just spends the afternoon ordering coffee and staring at Angus. Like he’s waiting for something to happen. After an hour, Mrs Cosie comes out of the kitchen and instantly notices that the nerd with the book is making Angus uncomfortable. and politely kicks the creep out the shop. But he’s still hovering around the back entrance even when the tea shop shuts for the evening.

The guy only takes the hint to leave when Flo suddenly changes into a bloody big wolf right in front of him and chases him off down the street. backed up by Big Brenda and Gora’thien the Blood-Soaked swinging their weapons and half a dozen spells of the more magically inclined workers. 

But they all think it’s one of the young girls the guy was near- stalking. Angus doesn’t say anything to let them think any different. If that creep was able to work it out, how long till more weirdos start showing up to Mrs Cosies neighbourhood?

It's all too much. He doesn’t want to quit his job but by Thursday Angus is exhausted. By Friday Angus is beginning to dread going into work. He even takes the day off from his extra credit lectures just for a nap!

Unfortunately, Saturday, the day of the Merles’ BBQ, was the very worst.

And the very very VERY worst of Taako visits to the teashop…

++

Thanks for reading see you next sunday.

[pharology101]

LOTD: Corsewall

~sorry for delay - meant for January 31st, 2023~

(from: http://www.ibiblio.org/lighthouse/sctsw.htm)

Corsewall

1817 (Robert Stevenson). Active; focal plane 34 m (112 ft); five white flashes every 30 s. 34 m (112 ft) round masonry tower with lantern and gallery, attached to 2-story keeper's house. Lighthouse painted white with buff trim; lantern painted black. The keeper's house has been converted into a small hotel. A photo by Mary and Angus Hogg is below (note that the Irish coast is on the horizon to the left of the lighthouse), W.F. Millar has a good photo, Trabas has an excellent closeup photo by Eckhard Meyer, Wikimedia has several photos, Marinas.com has aerial photos, Huelse has a historic postcard view, and Google has a street view and a satellite view. This is the landfall light for ferries from Larne and Belfast to Stranraer. In early 2008 the lighthouse and hotel were listed for sale. The hotel was purchased late in 2020 by an English couple, John Harris and Helen Mason; they have renovated and reopened the hotel and may offer tours for the public. Located on the northern tip of the Rhins of Galloway about 8 km (5 mi) northwest of Kirkholm. Accessible by road. Site open, tower closed. Operator: Northern Lighthouse Board. Site manager: Corsewall Lighthouse Hotel . ARLHS SCO-052; Admiralty A4604; NGA 4796.

(photo found here; ©Mary and Angus Hogg)

[dragonimpact]

Our loss, your gain! Dragon King APOC Survival Katana by Angus Trim SD35510 on DEEP clearance price for only $99.99 due to scuff marks on the black blade. NOT ON DISPLAY order from our website only. #yyj #victoria #clearance #sale (at Dragon Impact : Martial Art Equipment and Supplies) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClrzDvKP48b/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=