#Glass Balcony Handrails

[stevebrown0889]

How Do Glass Balcony Handrails Contribute to Safety on Balconies?

Glass balcony handrails contribute to safety on balconies in several ways. They are made from strong materials that reduce the risk of injury, provide solid barriers without gaps, and make it difficult for children to climb over them. Their clear visibility enhances awareness, while low maintenance requirements ensure long-lasting use.

[somedaythesun]

TS2 Default: Apartment Life Tech fences

Never, in the history of ever, have I used these...tech fences? Why the tear-drops? Why stained glass? Why so tall? Why these color combinations?? It's an aesthetic I'm baffled by.

I made a default mesh edit for myself, but I realized some other folks might enjoy this fix too! Details & link below the cut.

I shortened the fences to a sensible handrail height, I cleared away the teardrops, and I added a floor edge hider so you can have clean-looking balconies.

If you put them on the ground the floor edge hider will sink and not be visible beyond a small strip.

This is a mesh-only fix so it'll still use the same textures as the original fence (black, steel, and white). I think this mesh edit makes the fence 1000% more usable for a variety of building styles now that it's not so...zany.

Download!

Edit: if you'd like a non-default version of these fences (that still references the in-game textures) you can find them here. Thanks to @kayleigh-83 for the suggestion!

[kissandtellus]

The View

Synopsis: Caleb really, REALLY enjoys the view at his Skyhaven Penthouse.

Warnings: Inspired by the amazing OC art from @umaru10311 on tiktok. This is DIRTY, smut, phone smexy, public (?), MC has no idea, pseudo-cest(?).

Caleb’s Skyhaven penthouse was so cold and lifeless without Y/n’s presence to lighten it up. He missed her laugh, her voice, her touch. But he did have one thing he never hated when she was gone.

The view.

Y/n was babbling about her work. About how she and Xavier had sliced and diced Wanderers like some good cop/bad cop duo in a cheesy movie.

Caleb’s jaw clicked when he heard her mention another name but he would come back to that later.

He was enjoying the view.

“Ah, that’s nice Pipsqueak! I’m glad you stayed out of danger.” He holds the bottom of his sweat up against his collarbone, phone propped between his shoulder and ear.

Y/n makes a soft hum in the back of her throat. “I love you. Is everything okay? You sound out of breath.”

“Yeah Pips, just got done working out. You know how it is.” The grunt that followed wasn’t a noise you make after a set of sit ups but Caleb’s thighs quaked when he heard those precious words.

“Say it again.”

M/C arched a brow as she washed her hands from preparing dinner.

“I love you?”

Caleb gripped the handrail of the balcony until his knuckles turned white. “Again.”

He tried to keep his voice steady but his facade was cracking. But Y/n was innocent, this was her Gege after all! She rolled her eyes.

“I love you, Gege.” Fuck. Fuck.

Caleb is tall enough that as he fists his slobbering cock, he doesn’t hit the pristine glass or the handrail. His seed spurts out over the edge and out into the Skyhaven air. He tries to muffle the groan by clearing his throat.

“When you come by next time we need to use the balcony more. I know you’ll love the view.”

Oh he loved the view.

[mageknife]

i havent even finished mine 💀 but [shakes my fist and drops this] 🎲 here .

from here; send 🎲 to generate a kiss

20. a rough kiss - mullein lavellan/dorian pavus (nsfw)

“It’s really over.” Dorian swirled his overfull wine glass as he leaned over the balcony’s handrail, watching the sun set against a sky that was decidedly no longer green.

“Apparently not. Leliana says the Orlesian nobles are lining up to meet me. And I have to deal with Ferelden, too. And all of Josephine’s Antivan contacts, and I need to write to the Mourn Watch in Nevarra…” Mullein sighed, taking a long swig from his own glass. “And there’s that banquet Josephine is planning soon that I must prepare for. I have… maybe a day or two to rest, if I’m lucky.”

Dorian hummed. “Yes, well. The majority of your actual inquisiting is in the past. Now you get to be a socialite! So many balls and jousts to attend. So many lords and ladies kissing your arse and swooning over you. Maybe you’ll even be dragged up to Tevinter to watch a light show alongside Minrathous’s most influential magisters.”

“…You know how much I hate all of that,” Mullein grumbled ruefully, resting his forehead on the railing. “I’d much rather be doing anything else at all than listening to a duke try to weasel a favor out of me.”

“Anything else? Do you have ideas? We could float them by your ambassador and beg for her approval.”

“I don’t think Josephine would be too enthusiastic about me abandoning all my duties to spend a month in bed with you.”

Dorain barked a laugh, and Mullein was entranced as always by the way his eyes glimmered when he smiled. “An entire month? I think we might run out of sex to have.”

“Nonsense,” Mullein said with a fond smile. “We would get creative. And besides, there’s nothing wrong with doing the same thing again if it works.”

“Alright, then, if you are the expert on the topic of ‘sex with Dorian Pavus,’ elucidate me.” Dorian finished his glass of wine and took Mullein’s from where it was in his hand, dangling precariously off the balcony, then set them both on the desk inside. “Were you to be given a month devoted to naught but my pleasure and yours, where would you start?”

Mullein turned and leaned his back against the handrail thoughtfully. “I would start by sucking you off,” he mused. “I would be in no hurry, if we truly had that long, but I would make my way onto my knees and take you in my mouth as deeply as I can, which you and I both know is all the way.”

“Do go on,” Dorian purred, returning to the balcony to rest his broad hands on top of Mullein’s small and lithe ones on the railing.

Their difference in height had Mullein leaning back to look at him, pale cheeks burning with a blush that he knew Dorian delighted in seeing. “I could make you finish down my throat quickly, as I have on many occasions in a cave or against a tree, but I think I would rather take my time with you, watch you quiver as small sensations start to become too much to bear. Your hands would be tangled in my hair, and you would tighten your grip to hold me still.”

Mullein stood on his toes to get closer to Dorian, lips not quite reaching his ear but settling on a spot on the side of his neck that Mullein knew would draw a groan if he kissed it—which he didn’t, not yet; he did always delight in teasing Dorian until he snapped, always felt satisfaction when those manicured hands grabbed his hips roughly and tossed him onto his stomach on the bed, or when they held him in place while Dorian took his pleasure with force and abandon.

“You would fuck my mouth like it was the last thing you would ever do, despite knowing how much time we would have to indulge in each other,” he continued. He felt Dorian step even closer into his space, his thigh brushing against Mullein’s hardening cock, and he couldn’t fight back the pathetic gasp that escaped him at the contact, but he did his best to keep his words steady. “How naughty of you to rush things so needlessly. So I would pull back, stroke you until you painted my face with your spend, and order you to clean up your mess with your tongue, and to do it slowly.”

“That’s an awful lot of demanding that you think you’ll be doing,” Dorian countered with a raised eyebrow, but from the hitch in his voice, he was clearly affected by the notion. “How long do you plan on maintaining a leading role?”

“Oh, until you wrest it from me yourself,” Mullein murmured, placing the softest of kisses on Dorian’s neck. “Do you think the Inquisitor would so easily give up his power to the Tevinter mage in his bed?”

Dorian scoffed. “I do think that, in fact. He has done so countless times. In my experience, the Inquisitor far prefers to be powerless, bent over his desk or tied to his bedposts, rendered unable to resist that Tevinter mage’s many charms and talents.”

“Hmm. Well, perhaps he does want that, in the end.” Mullein nipped at Dorian’s neck, sucking slowly but forcefully enough that he drew a deep, shuddering noise from the back of Dorian’s throat. “But he does get a thrill out of having power taken from him. Is it not more rewarding, at times, to take your dominance than to have it handed to you?”

Mullein felt a hand curl around his ponytail and pull, tilting his head backwards, and his eyes locked with Dorian’s, bright and sparkling with mischief. Dorian grinned down at him. “Amatus, if you so badly want to be taken, you only have to ask.”

Mullein giggled. “Oh, but what’s the fun in asking?”

Dorian’s other arm found Mullein’s waist and brought him close, their chests as flush as they could get with a foot between them in height, muscled thigh still between scrawny legs. “You make a fair enough point,” Dorian said lowly against his lips. “I won’t ask, then.”

The kiss remained chaste for all of two seconds before Mullein whined at the sheer aggression of it, tongues tangled together inside Mullein’s mouth, a bite on his lower lip that made his knees nearly buckle. The hand on his waist found his ass and squeezed tightly enough that Mullein worried it would bruise—not that he would mind; much the opposite, in fact, but he was hoping they would get to that later in the night, slowing down after the inevitable first round consumed by passion and need, as Dorian consumed him now, sucking on his tongue like he was a dying man drawing life from it.

Dorian pulled back just long enough for both of them to catch their breath before diving in again, leaving Mullein no room to give a witty quip (though it wasn’t like he could come up with one now, anyway; all of his thoughts and worries from before were drowned out by the hands on his body and the pressure on his cock and the tongue in his mouth and Dorian).

They would find their way into the bed, Mullein on his back with Dorian between his legs, peppering him with kisses and bites and bruises that his high-collared Inquisition uniform would do its best to hide come tomorrow. And they would indulge in each other far past sunset, still lost in sweaty ecstasy long after the stars took to the sky. It wasn’t of much concern to either of them whether the rest of Skyhold could hear the Inquisitor shouting the Tevinter mage’s name; it would not be the first time Dorian had taken him apart in this bed, and it would certainly not be the last.

But they were in no rush to get there. Despite the desperation with which Mullein clung to Dorian’s shoulders, with which Dorian took soft lips between his teeth and tugged on fine black hair, they were both content to spend hours like this, exchanging hungry kisses on the Inquisitor’s balcony, wanting in this moment for nothing more than each other.

[jaegeraether]

Sunsets and footballers (Part 57)

Alexia Putellas x Character (17)

Masterlist (other parts here)

((** Mentions of Lucy and YFN | 4.1K **))

Alexia POV

Alexia’s heart dropped as the door clicked shut. Her emotions boiled over and she let the tears slide down her cheeks. The past few weeks since her injury she felt lonely, weak, cut-off. She did do some of that herself, truthfully. She’d cut herself off from the team to not lay her burden on them. And now it seemed that on top of that, nearly a year of desperately pining over Ridley, she’d also walked away.

Alexia was strong, though. She wiped the tears away. She was used to be alone.

She bent down to do what she always did when upset, put her headphones on and listen to music and then; she explored.

The next hour or so she let herself wander through the penthouse, her mind putting even more pieces of the puzzle together that was Ridley. Neat. Modern. Exceptionally maintained. Obviously created by a very, very good architect and she imagined that Ridley would have been very close to the project in it’s entirety.

Downstairs was the kitchen, the vast living area, laundry, three large bedrooms with ensuites and a sunken theatre room at the far end which was soundproofed. She shook her head at the enormity of it all. She���d stayed in some nice places over the years, but this was something else. She took her time, her hand gliding across surfaces as if they’d speak to her.

She walked outside to the balcony which ran the length of the penthouse, with an outdoor lounge, barbecue area, and a spa attached to a lap pool that beckoned her. She bent down and swiped her hand through. Warm enough to swim and still workout. She’d be coming back to that later.

She moved towards the indoor stairs, that spiralled upwards, her fingers gliding along the perfectly polished wood of the handrail. Upstairs she turned right where there was only one room. Double doors opened to the master bedroom and Alexia hesitated on the doorstep, feeling like she was overstepping. She leant forwards, seeing the large double bed pressed up against the wall, its bedding all different shades of black. She pondered at the bedframe and her thoughts went to Javier’s and his private rooms upstairs where the beds were made for bondage and such. She couldn’t see very well from where she stood, though she did wonder if it had the ability to do just that. Knowing Ridley, the answer was yes. Of course it could. Her mind shifted to how many people had been in that room being pleasured by her. Being adored by her. Being fucke-

Alexia caught herself and her jealousy. No, she wouldn’t let herself go down that path. She turned to the right which was an open bathroom, the bath and a little bit of the shower on display. Two shower heads. Did she used to date someone? Is that why-

No! She scolded herself. Stop. Alexia, stop.

She pulled the bedroom doors closed and made her way to the rooms on the other side of the staircase. One was a gym, a large area with an array of different work out equipment and a large mat in the middle that she assumed was for martial arts. She wondered if she could use it for her rehab with the physio Lucy had suggested. And then her mind shifted to wondering if Ridley would teach her some self-defence there…

There was a library and work office together in one room, separated by a large archway without a door. Somewhere she could zoom into Jonatan or the Barca physios if she needed. One wall was purely glass ensuring it was hit with the perfect amount of sunlight and it had a door leading out to another balcony which ran down to the master bedroom.

Past those two rooms and at the end of the hallway was a dark door which she opened to a pitch black room. Her hand felt around for the light switch and felt the familiar feel of soundproofing. As she flicked the lights on, she realised it was a music studio. Ridley and her love of music. Alexia had never attempted to learn an instrument before, always too busy with her other hobbies. Saying that, she loved music. It was her life, it lifted her when she was sad, calmed her when frustrated and even prepped her for games. She couldn’t live without it.

She felt the guitars and wondered which was her favourite, or if perhaps it was the piano sitting alone. The studio was set up well with a sound booth as if to properly record music and she wondered if she had. She went back out to the control room outside the sound booth and looked through the music on the shelves. There were vinyls, she smiled at the CD’s – how millennial of her – and then sat down at the desk in front of the Mac.

Although Ridley had said she was welcome to anything and everything, she did feel a little like she was intruding. Regardless, she made her decision and clicked on the touchpad. The screen lit up. There was no password, surprisingly, it just went straight to the desktop. Alexia searched around hesitantly, hoping to find some music, any music. At least that’s what she tried to convince herself. Really, she knew what she was looking for. And… she found it. A whole file of it. Ridley’s music.

She hesitated again, her mouse icon hovering over the first file. She connected her headphones to the computer and clicked on that first file. And then there it was, the sound of an acoustic guitar softly being played. She closed her eyes and leant back into the chair, listening to the gentle way Ridley was playing the instrument, as if expressing her emotions from the deepest part of her. Alexia could feel her mind calming, her body relaxing and then… her voice. Like she’d never heard it before. She’d heard her playing loudly for crowds at Javier’s with a band. She’d heard her do covers. But she’d never heard her like this. Vulnerable. Passionate. Almost whispering. Her voice husky with emotion. She sung in Spanish and again, Alexia found herself crying and feeling everything Ridley was at the time she’d recorded it. Oh, Ridley. Was music her only escape?

The song ended and Alexia was a mess, sitting in the darkened room, her eyes red and puffy from the tears she’d allowed to escape. Or rather, the tears that Ridley’s voice had drawn from her. She moved her mouse icon to the second file and went to click when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

Alexia yelped and jumped in her seat, getting the shock of her life. Ridley?

She spun to an older man looking guilty. He spoke, but she couldn’t hear. She pulled her headphones down and stood.

“I’m so sorry,” he apologised in Catalan.

“You….you’re…” she hastily wiped her tears away.

“I’m one of the housekeepers, Benjami. Lovely to meet you, la Reina.”

“Alexia, please. Lovely to meet you.” They shared a Spanish hello as another man entered the room.

“Alexia, this is my husband, Richard.”

“Hello, ma’am.” He responded in slightly less comfortable Catalan as he smiled.

They were adorable. Ridley had mentioned they were a couple, but not a gay one.

“You’re both Catalonian?”

Benjami shook his head. “No, I am, however Richard is English.”

That explained Richard’s limited Catalan.

“He move here for I,” Richard explained.

“Oh…” She didn’t know what to say. She felt like she’d just been caught, and that she had too many questions to ask. “Where did you meet Ridley?”

“In Barcelona,” Benjami explained. “My sister and her husband are housekeepers of her home in the city. Richard and I lived there for a long time, and decided it was now fair to spend time in his home too. Ridley offered us this job a few years ago and it’s the best thing that’s happened to us.”

Ridley… how on earth did she think she was ‘not good’? She was the definition of good.

“I’m so sorry for interrupting you. I didn’t see your headphones.”

“No, it’s okay. It’s my fault. Thank you for both speaking Catalan. I miss speaking it…”

“Ridley said you would prefer that.” Benjami smiled.

“Her Catalan is very better than me,” Richard admitted.

“We can speak Spanish or English if you prefer?” She offered.

“No, I want a practice! I am happy for Catalan, thank you!”

“Also I didn’t know which room to put your suitcase in,” Benjami admitted.

“Oh, that’s okay.” She said, smiling thankfully at the older gentleman. “I haven’t chosen yet.”

“I suggest the far one on the left, it gets the best morning light.”

“Okay then, sounds perfect.”

“Would you like dinner?” Benjami asked. “Ridley suggested classic Catalonian for you tonight as you’re already too out of your normality of Barcelona. I know how that feels.”

Ridley was looking after her even when she wasn’t there. “That would be lovely, thanks.”

“Perfect! It’ll take a while as you know, so you have a few hours to keep exploring. It is quite large! We’ll leave you to it.”

They left then and Alexia was stood, not knowing what to do but suddenly grateful she had company. She left the music and went to pick out a bedroom.

Alexia’s suitcase was in the corner bedroom when she got downstairs. She unpacked, even though she didn’t know how long she was staying for, and the first thing she did was use that gym. She pushed herself for a good 45 minutes, feeling guilty that she wasn’t training everyday like the others. Her knee was painful, but she pushed through it, doing her weights and telling herself it was all in her head.

She was warming down on the treadmill when her knee went and she yelped in pain, hopping off and falling to the ground, clutching at her knee. Her mind immediately went to panic. Had she done her meniscus? Her ACL?

She knew it was neither, though she couldn’t stop those being her first thoughts. The pain went away gradually and she sat up, stretching it and massaging it out. Her workout was done.

She limped her way back down to the bottom floor and didn’t bother to change before falling into the pool. That sweet relief. She was a water baby, being Spanish, and felt the immediate ease of tension that was weight on her knee.

Swimming had always been a nice reprieve for her. One of her favourite types of rehabilitation for her knee. She swam a few slow laps before getting out and showering for dinner.

She shared dinner with the older couple who had made several typical Catalonian dishes done very, very well. They chatted, laughed, spoke of home and helped Richard with his pronunciations. They spoke of Benjami picking her up the next day to go to Lucy and Blau’s, organising a time. She said she didn’t know how long she’d be there, but it wasn’t an issue for him. He always found things to do.

Although they insisted she didn’t, she helped them clean up and made sure they took some food home with them as they left.

Alexia settled into bed, full and warm besides the icepack Richard had wrapped up for her knee. She stared at the ceiling wondering again why the fuck she was in London. It was so unlike her, and although Ridley wasn’t there, she seemed to still be taking care of her from afar.

Her protectiveness. Her resilience. Her strength… her voice… her whole aura. The way she protected Blau. The way she truly saw her. Brought them a surprise. Cared for Chiquito. Loved her music.

The way she’d gripped her neck that night, and she hadn’t wanted it to stop.

Alexia’s breathing became ragged as her hands found her neck where she’d been holding and drifted down to tease her nipples through her shirt.

The way she looked at her.

Her fingers trailed down her abdomen and one slipped under her shirt, feeling across the skin of her body while the other drifted lower.

The way she’d leant over her at lunch, her arm and leg warm against her own.

Although they were her own fingers, she still drew in a sharp breath as they slipped through her wet folds which betrayed just how much she liked the Australian.

The way she’d brushed up against her in the plane and asked if she were going to behave.

“Good girl.”

Alexia’s fingers circled her clit with purpose, drawing that legless feeling out of her, and whimpering at the sensations.

The way she’d guided her through fucking another woman, her body against her back as she ate her out. As Ridley had lined their fingers up and pushed them inside of the women together.

Alexia pushed two fingers inside of herself, moaning at the feel and wishing they were Ridley’s. She’d know exactly what she wanted. Her spare hand moved to the other nipple, flicking it. Exciting it. Pinching it.

She thrusted into herself a few times, enjoying the feel of her body mindlessly clenching and unclenching as she pulled her wetness up to her clit and covered it, rubbing herself mindlessly. Needlessly.

The way she’d slipped her hand down and touched her, expertly fucking her as she tasted another. Ridley’s way of keeping that distance between them. She’d touched her like she knew her body better than herself. She’d never entered her, just expertly teased her clit and drawn that ecstasy out of her like it was easy. It was never easy for Alexia, but right now, and with Ridley, it was.

Her spare hand moved up to her throat and choked herself as Ridley had, her back arching off of the bed as she rubbed her bundle of nerves to the point of no return.

Ridley. She’d made her come in just a few minutes, her front pressed warmly against her back; her breath tickling her ear as she murmured encouragement while she came.

She was unable to stay silent as she moaned, whimpered, gasped her name again and again. Ridley. Ridley. Ridley. With her back arched tighter than a bowstring, Alexia came to her memories of the smell of her, the feel of her, the heart of her. And she heard herself let out a pained cry of ecstasy as her body locked up and spasmed.

Ridley’s POV

Ridley hadn’t slept. How could she? She’d suggested Alexia come to London and then left her to be alone. She could offer everything, make sure everyone was checking up on her, but it would never be enough. She didn’t realise just how much she didn’t trust herself around the footballer. Not until the plane.

She was in a meeting and grudgingly entertaining the opinions and suggestions of those around her only because they were key stakeholders, though, she had no plans to go ahead with any of them. It was her company. Her decision. Not a board. She was the majority owner. Her company which was world-wide. The one she’d created from the ground up to provide training to pilots, make recommendations of candidates for piloting positions in the militaries, passenger liners and general aviation around the globe. Her company which covered that large gap in the market and made sure people were adequately trained, resourced and prepared. There was nothing her company couldn’t do when it came to aviation. Provide flight reviews for airlines around the world. Provide appropriate type-rated pilots to fill gaps for the larger companies. Training and type-rating. Liaising with aircraft manufacturers to ensure better ease of use and functionality in the flight decks. It was growing exponentially every year, and always, people had something to say. To suggest. To beg her for. And regardless of any of that nonsense, she was zoned out thinking about Alexia Putellas.

Her lips and her hazel eyes and that hair she was so obsessed with. She could control herself most of the time, but not when it came to pushing the hair from her eyes or tucking it behind her ear.

She knew she could have her right now. She could walk into that apartment and crash their bodies together and Alexia would happily accept it. It would be the most incredible, mindblowing sex. She knew that.

She didn’t need to staying in the hotel in town. There was no reason for her to. She just wanted to provide that distance to avoid any interactions like that. Any possible slips of discipline on her part, not that it wasn’t rare to happen. There was so much good in her, so much happiness. She needed that and Alexia wouldn’t find it in her. Because the good in her, the part that deserved to be loved, died the day her family did.

“And the US navy would like another ten recommendations of…”

The voices drowned away. She knew her colleague was taking notes scrupulously as he usually did. Never missed a beat, that one.

Her body was feeling cold and empty. Nothing could fill it. She thought of calling up one of her regular London benefits but she didn’t because she knew there would be no point. It wouldn’t take the ache away. She was so mad at herself for being so weak, and yet that madness was overcome by that feeling of longing. She needed to make sure she was okay. To know how she was doing.

“I’m going to make a phone call,” she said loudly to the room.

“We’ll wait,” one said quickly, knowing she was the one with the power in the room. It was incredible how submissive powerful men became when they knew they needed her. Which was always.

“No, don’t. Keith is all over it.” She refused and flashed him a wink as she left the room.

She walked out of the conference room of the hotel and found a quiet spot in the bar area, ordering a drink. She pulled out her phone and called Blue.

“Hey Riddles!”

She always loved hearing her say that.

“Hey baby Blue, how are going with everything?”

“Checking up on me are you?”

“Don’t sound so surprised.”

“I’m not, Lucy just looked offended. I’m great, it’s difficult to do daily tasks but we’re managing. I’m more worried about Lucy’s knee as she carries me everywhere.”

“She’ll be okay.”

“How’s work?” She asked sceptically.

“Oh you know, little men begging.”

“Ah, so you’re having a fun day then.”

“Yeah…”

“What’s up, Riddles? You’re not sounding yourself.”

She took a sip of her drink that had just arrived. The waitress winked as she walked away. “I’m okay.”

“Talk to me…”

“It’s nothing, Blue. How’s Alexia?”

Blue paused, understanding immediately as she usually did. “She’s… good.”

“She’s happy?” At this point, she couldn’t even care how obvious she was being.

“I mean… yes. We’ve been having a fun day.”

The way she spoke made Ridley realise she was probably sitting right next to her, and she would be unable to walk away for privacy with her injuries.

“Doing what?”

Blue laughed. “Well we played a board game and made some lunch and right now I’m being interrogated…”

“And after lunch?”

Blue sighed, probably at her persistence. “Lucy is going to the park with Alexia and Narla to kick the ball around later on while I work. And then Alexia has a rehab session with Meg tonight.”

“Okay.”

“Would you like to co-”

“No. No, I was just checking in.”

“Hm.” She could practically hear her thoughts telling her to just message Alexia.

The thought of her sitting next to Blue and knowing she was checking up didn’t sit well with her.

There was a pause. A moment of silence. She knew Blue wanted to talk, to offer advice but she couldn’t because she was right there. And Ridley… Ridley didn’t know what to say. She was too conflicted.

She knew she should have hung up, but she didn’t.

“Is she happy…?” She asked again.

Blue sighed softly and Ridley could feel her looking at Alexia. “She’s lonely, Riddles.”

Ridley knew she was, but it still didn’t stop it hurting. And the fact that Alexia had heard her say that. Blue was trying to encourage her to get out of the hotel, to spend time with her. But she couldn’t. Her pride wouldn’t let her.

“Thanks for inviting her over,” she murmured.

“It wasn’t for you.”

“I know.”

Ridley hung up, downed her drink and went back to her meeting feeling even more terribly than she had before she’d left.

Alexia POV

The physio, Meg, was attractive. Very attractive. She and Alexia immediately fell into sync with each other and it was just so natural to flirt. She was 100% Alexia’s type, and suddenly, she was back to her dominant self.

Meg hadn’t found anything wrong with her knee, she believed it was performing well and suggested that it may be a mental barrier rather than a physical one. Alexia had also wondered about it, almost wanting to push her knee… to test it to the extreme to see if it would handle the pressure. Meg was patient though. Kind. Caring. She’d massaged her in all of the right places, and relaxed it more than it had been in a few days. The girls had been right, she was fantastic. As her fingers kneaded her upper thigh she thought back to the night before and how she’d touched herself. She quickly pushed the thought of Ridley out of her mind and instead thought back to the last time she’d had sex. She almost gasped when she realised that Ridley was the last to touch her. It had been that long. She hadn’t let anyone touch her since. Part of her wanted to stay that way… and part of her said she needed sex to try and distance herself from her emotions. Maybe that’s why she couldn’t stop thinking about her.

And so Meg flirted, and Alexia flirted right back. Shamelessly. She left the rehab session, having barely made it out without fucking her right then and there. God, she was sexy.

“I’ll see you tomorrow…” she murmured, looking to Alexia’s lips and back.

The only thing stopping Alexia was that they’d only met an hour ago.

“See you tomorrow,” she flirted, flashing her a grin that Meg trembled under.

Meg leant in so close that Alexia’s heart skipped a jump as she slid something into her jacket pocket and whispered. “Message me.”

Benjami was chatty as he drove her back to the penthouse, talking about his day with Richard. It calmed Alexia to listen to it. How could it not? Two people very much in love and excited to share their day with her. They had again planned a dinner for the three of them, having agreed to it after their fun the night before.

Richard greeted them with a far off call from the kitchen as they entered and it smelled like home. So, so good. She hung up her jacket and kicked off her shoes as if she’d been living there for years.

“Ten minutes!” Richard called.

Dinner was almost ready. It was much, much earlier than she ate in Barcelona but she didn’t mind. Benjami started towards the kitchen to help when he snapped his fingers and turned to Alexia.

“Sorry… I forgot to mention the gifts in your bedroom.”

She tilted her head in question, though he didn’t answer, just giving her a soft smile instead as he moved towards the kitchen.

Alexia made her way to her bedroom, wondering what they’d bought her, or rather what Ridley had asked them to buy her. Was it because Blau had said she was lonely on the phone that day? Alexia’s heart had dropped at the honesty of it when she’d said it and Blau had immediately given her an apologetic smile. Alexia knew it was her way of telling her friend to be better.

She entered the room, and the first thing she saw was the easel. Her eyes followed it to the blank canvases, all different styles. Pencils. Paintbrushes and paint. Her favourite hobbies. Her heart skipped a beat. Ridley.

She took the note off of the easel and read it, her hand beginning to tremble.

Your first gift is to pass the time.

Your second gift is for company.

She was confused, wondering what the second gift was. Her eyes wandered the room and fell on her bed. She took a sharp breath in as she saw his little grey body curled up, fast asleep.

It was Chiquito.

[kayawolfhorse]

Tell Me So I Say | Read on Ao3

—☾—

The landscape has shifted again.

False doesn’t remember what it was before, lines of white and smears of purple and blue already fading from memory. The harder she tries to hold on, the faster it slips away. Her fist doesn’t listen when she tells it to let go.

Today’s terrain feels as though it’s determined to swallow False whole.

The sky hangs high above False’s head, framed by the lip of the enormous chasm she’s trapped within. Smooth, dark walls make up each side and reach far enough down to hit the bedrock layer and the shallow pool of stagnant water that covers it.

To one side is a city of oranges and whites, neatly contained upon platforms of stone built over the water, separated by the canals that run between each one. To the other is a cylindrical tower that reaches as far upwards as False can see, flanked by covered roads that continue through the semicircle of smaller towers that flank the horizon.

False stands upon a walkway suspended between the tower and the city, gripping the glass handrail hard enough to turn her knuckles white. An uneasiness she can’t name settles along the bottom of her gut; heavy. All is silent save for her heartbeat pounding in her ears.

It’s eerie. Something tingles at the back of False’s neck. She aches for her elytra; some grasping sense of control; anything. Her back remains bare of her wings, as it has for longer than she can recount. For all her time spent here, flying has never worked in False’s dreams.

Initially, she didn’t realize she was dreaming. The real world and her own brain are both confusing enough—who can blame False for the mix-up? A landscape that refuses to remain unchanged; pulsating; restless; hungry. Home is murky liquid slipping through False’s fingers, and her mind is left scrambling for the image it left behind. She can’t wake up—she’s tried, over and over again. No matter what she does, she remains stubbornly asleep.

Being trapped within your own subconscious is a terribly fickle thing.

False walks. What else is there to do? She follows crossing paths down to the city, rows of office buildings and apartment complexes, neon signs advertising non-existent businesses and, inexplicably, a mayoral candidate, to empty streets. Perfectly manicured hedges sit within rectangular planters that line the sidewalks. Every interior behind the white-stained windows False glances into is bare.

False walks until the footpaths become wider roads and the roads lead into the central tower. Looking up at it from the city hadn’t done the tower’s sheer scale justice; False has been shrouded in its long shadow for what feels like forever—time is a logical artifact of the real world; it has no place here—and the sun is entirely invisible behind the tower’s looming silhouette. She steps inside.

If the outside had made False feel small, she feels positively miniscule within it. Sunlight pours through the topmost dome and each of the tall windows that run down the sides of the tower, catching against the glass of each of the higher levels’ balcony railings before hitting the mirrored floor beneath False’s feet; the effect is dizzying. Four different wings, accented by harsh blue lights and soundless water features branch off from the main room. Something about it puts False on edge.

False casts her gaze sharply downwards, a shield against the kaleidoscope above her, an old habit that still clings, and mistakenly catches a glimpse of herself at her feet before flinching away. She doesn’t recognize the stranger in her reflection with features so similar to her own.

Suddenly desperate to be away from the mirror, False strides into the wing closest to her—a pair of elevators. The thought of being confined within such a tiny space sets panic prickling at her palms. The promise of the higher vantage point found on the upper levels leads False to finding a set of emergency stairs and climbing them until the back of her shirt collar is damp and her breaths wheeze from her lungs.

The highest level of the tower is a circular hallway, with doors spaced evenly around the glass-floored center of the room directly beneath the domed roof. Storage rooms filled with strange mechanical parts and offices with desks piled high with mostly indecipherable paperwork blur together as False riles through them. The windows whose ledges she climbs to see through them overlook views of unmoving robots upon bright cyan land; blank hexagonal plates laid out over a calm blue sea. Where is she?

The last of the doors, the one furthest away from the elevators and stairs, is locked. Its mechanism appears to be a surprisingly simple key lock, not at all what False would’ve expected amidst such a space. Curiosity and dread gnaw at her core in equal amounts. She makes quick work of picking the lock open.

The light of the hallway pours into the pitch-black space. False feels for a light switch along the wall; when she flicks it, hanging lights flare to life one by one along the center of the ceiling, casting the room in a cold white. The onslaught of a headache casts its accusing finger behind False’s eyes.

Half-filled shelves line the walls and metal pipes run along the ceiling above them. Empty racks on wheels lay abandoned on the floor in front of a long, stark-white counter. In the back corner is a tube-like chamber, large enough for False to stand in, the last remnants of its glass walls clinging to its copper frame in wicked shards. Leaves of crumpled and torn paper litter every surface of the room. A clock ticks on the far wall.

False doesn’t know what to make of it all. The answer feels so close. Acrid foreboding curdles in her stomach.

She bites her tongue in frustration and approaches a corner of the counter, upon which an askew clipboard rests. With unsteady hands, False picks it up and squints at the shred of paper still caught beneath its clip.

The words are unintelligible, a hasty scrawl written with a heavy hand, but the sliver of blonde hair and pale skin surrounding too-bright blue eyes is unmistakable. False’s face, for once her own, stares back at her.

She drops the clipboard and runs. All but stumbling back down the stairs, she skids across the mirrored floor and sprints blindly for the nearest exit. The clock’s ticking rings in her ears.

False flees back to the hollow city and drops into a crouch in the middle of the road. It’s not familiar yet, but she’ll become acquainted enough with the landscape until it morphs into its next iteration, and then her memory will melt away with it and she won’t have to think about all of this anymore. She’ll sit right here while she waits, away from the tower and its mirrors and its unsettling rooms. It’s not real. It’s not real.

The ticking finds her even down here, echoing through the barren streets, maddingly loud against the silence. False ignores it until she can’t take it anymore. The sound of her boots hitting pavement as she wanders another lap around the city is a blessed respite. By her third loop around the block, something green and impossibly animated on the corner catches False’s eye.

An explosion of foliage blooms in the alleyway between the buildings at the edge of the intersection. Long, curving vines climb the orange and white buildings on either side of the alley. Colorful flowers tucked between lush leaves sway in a breeze False can’t feel, collected around a dirt path that leads up to a silver metal gate, left invitingly ajar.

It’s a trick. It has to be, right? The garden is just something her brain’s thought up and put in place to torture False with some new, fresh horror. It’s not real.

Despite every instinct screaming at her to run, False tentatively takes a step towards it. What’s there to lose at this point, right?

When nothing leaps out of the bushes and attacks her, she inches forwards again. With every step closer, the stillness of the city falls away. The ambrosial freshness of foliage fills False’s senses, and she swears she can hear birdsong. Even False herself changes; when her feet touch the dirt, feeling floods her limbs, connecting them to her body in a way False hadn’t even realized she’d missed. Her vision glows sharper, the world more vivid. The ticking of invisible clocks falls away entirely.

False touches a single hand to the gate. The world goes dark as she’s pulled through.

—☾—

Warmth. The first thing False notices is warmth, beaming down upon her and pooling in the places her skin meets itself. Blinking open bleary eyes, False squints against the sudden, harsh light, and quickly shuts them again. Everything aches.

Awareness comes back to her all at once, and False registers that she’s sprawled on hard ground. Her eyes flare open—ow, right into the sun, that’s what the warmth is—and she almost falls scrambling to her feet, so False settles on sitting upright, digging her fingers into the earth around her. When she brings her hands to her face to pass them over her cheeks, the dirt clings beneath her fingernails.

After giving herself a moment to come fully to, False slowly rises to her feet and takes in the space around her. The path she stands upon is dark dirt, accompanied by wooden steps where the land slopes upwards, continuing on beneath what looks to be a cave, its underbelly leaden with hanging vines and ripe glowberries.

False’s stomach, she realizes with a jolt of shock, grumbles at the thought of them. It’s been so long since she’s felt hungry. Maybe she could investigate the rest of her surroundings and come back to them—who knows what could lurk beyond the vines? She’s not even sure if she’s dreaming anymore.

The cave turns out to be more of an arch, and the other side of it is breathtaking, bursting with bright, undeniable life. Sepia-toned buildings stand proud between fields of wheat and patches of trees that all dance in the same wind that lifts the ends of False’s hair. Low stone walls line the path and contain the fluffy foliage present throughout. A cat perches upon one of the ridges, regarding False with vague interest. There are sunflowers everywhere, all facing towards where she had just come from.

It feels terribly, frighteningly safe. False never wants to leave. It’s not real. It can’t be.

Soft chatter floats through the air, its source a group of people in vibrant shades of green and yellow, laughing as they work near the edge of one of the fields. False freezes. Of all the things she’s had to deal with, people haven’t been one of them. Should she go to them? No, definitely not, right? But they could at least tell her where she is…

Her dilemma is interrupted by the soft crunching of dirt under foot. A playfully musical voice calls out, “You alright there?”

She’s intimidating. The broadness to her shoulders and solidness of her stance speaks to a strength that worries False. She’s beautiful. Golden feathered wings fan out on either side of her, the same color as the petals of the sunflowers that adorn her rich brown hair. Her green dress falls to her knees, and freckles dance across her bare skin. Sweat streaks dirt lines along her forehead as it drips. She feels real.

At False’s lack of response, the woman in green tilts her head. “You’re looking a little heat exhausted there, mate. Can I take you to the tavern for a drink and some rest?”

What does she do, what does she say? Social niceties have never been False’s strong suit, but they fail her completely now. “Um…”

The woman’s brow crinkles with concern. “Do you need a doctor?”

“No! No, I’m alright. Erm.” False wishes she had her elytra. Perhaps a pit conveniently beneath her feet to fall into. “…A drink sounds great, thanks,” she finishes lamely.

Looking unconvinced, the woman shrugs. “Right this way, then. Are you from around here?”

Does False lie? Admit that she’s completely at this woman’s mercy? She decides on, “Not from here, no. I’m a… traveler.”

“A traveler! Well, welcome to Gilded Helianthia, mate. I’m Pearl, and I don’t believe I caught your name?” Pearl starts forward in what False hopes is the direction of the tavern.

“False,” she supplies, falling into tentative step behind her. She’s never heard of Gilded Helianthia, certainly never Pearl. Pearl doesn’t seem particularly inclined to hurt False, at least.

“Nice to meet you, False!” Pearl’s voice is as warm as could be. “It’s nice to have visitors. Tourists tend to go for Mythland, y’know? I don’t blame them, it’s very pretty this time of year.”

“Mythland?” False echoes without meaning to, then winces.

Pearl gives her an odd look. “Mythland? Ruled by King Sausage? Has that whole blood sheep thing going on, but really quite lovely. You really aren’t from around here, are you?”

False gives a nervous laugh. Her head throbs.

Pearl waves a reassuring hand. “No worries at all; nothing wrong with being new! Mythland is a neighboring empire, and one of our allies. Sausage has had some… weird stuff going on lately, but he’s friendly.”

“Got it,” False says, if only to keep moving. Sweat prickles at the back of her neck. Discomfort itches at her gloved palms. Empire?

“Gosh, I’ve been rambling, haven’t I?” Pearl gives a slight shake of her shoulders and picks up her pace.

“No, it’s okay, I like explanations,” False says awkwardly. “Learning how things work… yeah.”

“You do strike me as the type,” Pearl says. “Are you at all interested in magic? Crystal Cliffs’ magic academy will be opening soon, open to all students!”

Magic? False isn’t so sure. “I like… making things. Machinery and such,” she says, hoping Pearl doesn’t take offense.

Pearl brightens. “I get that!” Leaning closer, conspiratorially, she says, “This empire’s rooted in magic, but between you and me, I’ve always preferred getting my hands dirty.”

“Your dress is an interesting choice for that,” False says, the words slipping out before she can stop them.

“I’ve got to look queenly in some regard!” Pearl laughs. “You ought to give The Grimlands a visit at some point. Inventor-types, the lot of them. You with your goggles would fit right in,” she says, her tone teasing but not insincere. False reaches up to touch her goggles. She’d forgotten she has them on.

The conversation flows uncomfortably well between them as they walk. Pearl notes the purpose of each structure as they pass them and in return False tells her a bit about the inventions that sit upon her workbench back in Cogsmeade, trying to ignore the pain in her chest when she speaks of it. In another life, Pearl would’ve been a good ally.

The trek to the tavern is a reasonable one. The tavern itself is a large, inviting building with a wooden sign out front that labels it The Golden Sunflower, its namesake planted by the handful around it. The scent of meat pies and warm pastries that wafts from it fiercely rekindles False’s appetite.

“And finally, that’s the…” Pearl falters, stopping in her tracks entirely. She glances at False, and for a split second, all familiarity falls from her face. False takes a step back.

Pearl opens her mouth as if to speak when her entire form flickers. Her beautiful wings smolder and the end of her dress charrs, scattering ash upon her now-bare feet. Her eyes glow bright; burning. False almost stumbles over her own feet in her hasty retreat, and hits a stone wall hard enough to force all the air from her lungs. The ticking starts anew.

“Pearl?” False hesitantly calls out. She feels like the floor’s disappeared beneath her when she’s only just started to find her footing.

White-hot eyes meet False’s own; it’s hard to hold them. She looks away.

“False. I’m sorry we had to meet under these circumstances,” Pearl says. Her accent is the same, shaping her words into something strong, but her voice almost seems to echo.

“Pearl?” False tries again. She’s not sure what else to say.

“We don’t have much time.” Pearl clasps her hands together. Bewildered, False stays silent. “Listen, False, you’re not as alone as you think you are.”

“What’s that supposed to mean? That’s not comforting, if it’s supposed to be.” It’s a miracle False can hear anything through the damn clocks.

Pearl continues, “You’re stronger than you know.”

How could False be strong? These hands of hers wield a sword she doesn’t remember picking up; her mind is something to be escaped.

“And you’ll make it through, okay?” Something in Pearl’s fiery eyes shifts.

“Through what? Make it through what?” False thinks she may be pleading. The clocks’ relentless drum multiplies.

Pearl draws closer, stopping squarely in front of False. She regards False with a firm line of the mouth and soft set to her eyes. Raising her hands, she places two calloused fingers on each of False’s temples. False finds herself too shocked to move.

“It’s time for you to wake up,” Pearl says gently.

As the world fades into darkness, it changes, lightning-fast: Gilded Helianthia in flames, the sky above shrouded in storms. The rubble’s smoke reduces to wisps and the ruin disappears into the ground, reclaimed by the earth once more as soft green grass and tiny saplings grow tall in the blink of an eye. Right before it all goes black, the ash dissipates from Pearl’s form and the damage to her dress and wings is undone, and False swears the light around her head forms a halo.

—☾—

In her own bed, tucked away in a corner of Cogsmeade, False gasps awake. Morning sunlight pours through the window behind her, and the cat that's been asleep at False’s feet lifts its head and meows. The docked airship outside hums its mechanical tune as the iron farm contained within churns away. False’s headache is a dull throb. The faint scent of sunflowers lingers in the air.

Somewhere deep within the cavern of her empire, a lone clock ticks away.

[worlds-end-discotheque]

21 Days Until the Death of Kim Kitsuragi

As seen, with awe, by The End.

Day 1:

The jagged maw of glass and greatness that turned an eye towards the detective’s hunched form appeared less monstrous and more lonely in the dim light. One of the bulbs in the fluorescent light that crowned the balcony had flickered out, a dying star of a claustrophobic solar system, leaving its twin to stutter and fight for half as much light. Kim Kitsuragi appreciated her valiant efforts, although a complete darkness may have been more welcoming to the quiet night.

A brisk wind rolling from the midnight sea stung the lieutenant’s cheeks with the prickling chill of a colder morning to come. It felt like a thousand tiny needles, so small and so many that they became harmless, when the fleeting warmth of cigarette smoke kissed his lips and caressed his face. Even the gentle touch of a clandestine second cigarette could not smooth the lines of worry that had made home between the lieutenant’s thin eyebrows.

The sea breeze coaxed the smoke Kim Kitsuragi exhaled into the waiting mouth of Harry’s broken hostel window. It would only be a matter of time before the smell stirred his poor slumber. Kim only hoped that his cigarette had burned to ash by then. He needed to take his time with this one, but the lieutenant did not find himself keen to be caught breaking his own rule.

It was a countdown, in its own right. Kim watched the still, haunting shadows of architecture cut their silhouettes against the greater black of the sea and the night sky. The gentle rush of waves lapping at the docks made a soothing harmony to the faintly tinny music he could hear coming from the downstairs lobby of the Whirling-in-Rags. After another slow exhale of smoke, Kim Kitsuragi closed his eyes, tired of trying to correct the reaped consequence of his poor sight against the dark. It would be best to let those tired shapes of the Martinaise coast rest, anyhow. Perhaps the poor town did not appreciate so many eyes on it, especially those who could not quite decipher her.

Kim raised his cigarette to his lips again, the acrid and dry taste of this slow drag telling him that this indulgence would end soon. He tried to savor the moment of smoke caught in his being; his chest, felt tight and forced to swallow the poisoned air, his throat burned with captured dustings of ash. The lieutenant felt a quiet sting of disappointment when he quietly coughed out the smoke quicker than any recent drags could take in.

Another blissful, torturous moment of silence passed. Kim only opened his eyes when a voice instead broke it; but the voice did not shatter like the huge window beside the lieutenant, instead bringing itself forward on hands and knees like a pious man laying bare his sins to the cathedral’s vast emptiness.

“Kim… What are you still doing up?” Harry eyed the smoking cigarette between Kim’s fingers, those sad sea-green eyes missing nothing. Kim did not even have to smile in the sad defeat. It ebbed between the officers.

“Apologies for waking you, Detective.” Kim responded instead. He thought of snubbing out the offending cigarette on the metal railing, abandoning its damning paper to the breeze in the night. But the crime of habit already had a witness, so the lieutenant slowly raised his cigarette back to his lips. The warm, orange, ashy glow flared like sunrise, and then Kim exhaled the bittersweet smoke like a curling fog.

Harry gazed at the lieutenant with an expression that held every story in the universe. The threads of narrative became intertwined and tangled, wresting with each other and coming to knots and snags behind his eyes. Kim stood patiently, content simply to observe such a fascinating man. There was truly no other like Harrier du Bois.

Kim looked down at the cigarette, dying in his hand. Even with the kindest touch, it still wilted away under its own design. Kim advanced its proclivity for self-consumption and snubbed the ashes against the balcony handrail. Tiny embers flared, then vanished. Kim placed the cigarette butt in the rusted ash tray poised atop a rickety stand of three metal legs. It was the least he could do.

“I was just going back inside. You should, too. It will likely be a long day tomorrow, Detective.” Kim turned towards his partner, momentarily transfixed by the introspective puzzlement in his eyes. A small smile twitched at the corner of the lieutenant’s lips, knowing it would take until morning for the detective to come to a decision on how he felt about Kim’s response. More importantly, his blatant lie.

“Kim…” Harry started, turning slowly to follow the lieutenant as Kim strode past him. Despite the late hour, the lieutenant stood tall, his hands tucked neatly into the pockets of his jacket.

“In the morning, Detective. Sleep would do us both some good.” Kim did not turn as he continued inside. Harry was left only to trail after him, the gears of his mind nearly audible in the metallic churning that Kim so admired. The detective’s exhaustion was clear, as even through his confusion, he did not utter the million questions undoubtedly trapped on his tongue.

Starstruck.

“Kim.” Harry started again, his sentence ending there with the word. A firm declaration in a whisper-thin tone. For some reason, the lieutenant stopped. He had not intended to, but the way Harry had begged with his silence made Kim’s heart ache.

He turned. “Yes, Detective?”

Harry looked at his partner, as if deciphering the mysteries of the world, written in layers of stoic languages and protected meanings. Harry du Bois always appeared as though his heart was breaking; it was a beautiful, and dangerous way for a man to look.

Kim suddenly ached for another cigarette. The sudden fluttering of his heart made him anxious. He swallowed quietly.

“Nothing, just… goodnight, Kim.” And clear as day, Harry had broken his own heart all over again. Kim sighed softly, wondering just how many more breaks that kind heart could withstand.

He smiled briefly, sadly. “Goodnight, Detective.”

Kim knew he could not look into Harry’s eyes again if he wanted to survive with his own heart intact. He turned away before disappearing to the sanctity of his rented room.

[inhcritance]

@gingerspiice liked for a The Boys verse starter!

"This has long been my favorite club." Harry admits, from the little balcony overlooking the dance floor. There, with the music and the dim lighting, they won't be overheard. They won't be seen, either, it's the value of the little private areas Harry has long come to appreciate.

"And really, I've been wondering why I'm being followed this time."

It's not the first time. It won't be the last. It's why he likes the club: if he needs to jump and flee, he can, but as far as most know he's just human, and people do seek him out for more than kidnapping attempts, or blackmail.

Of course, he tends to appreciate a heads up, but for now he'll settle for an air of arrogance. For leaning against the handrail of the balcony, for all he doesn't lose track of the other, not even as he gestures towards the several bottles on the desk on a corner, and the glass on his hand.

"If you want a drink, it's on me." He offers.

[stainlesssteelhandrailing]

Balcony Stainless Steel SS Glass Hand Railing Chennai

SS Handrailing

Stainless Steel Handrailing

Frameless Glass Handrailing

SS Balcony Handrailing

Commercial SS Railing

Aluminium Balcony Railing

Staircase SS Railing

Stainless Steel Railing System

SS Hand Rail Designer

SS Handrailing Manufacturers

[the-yuanjian-blog]

Complete Guide to Frameless Glass Railing Systems

Frameless glass railings are a modern, sleek, and unobstructed solution that enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of any space. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your balcony, staircase, or poolside area, a frameless glass railing offers an elegant barrier that maximizes your view while ensuring safety. This guide will explore the different types of glass railing systems, their benefits, and the key factors to consider when installing a glass railing system.

What is a Frameless Glass Railing?

A frameless glass railing system is designed for minimalism, where thick, tempered or laminated glass panels are secured with minimal visible hardware, offering an uninterrupted view. Unlike traditional railings with posts, balusters, and other bulky structures, frameless glass systems maximize transparency and openness, making them ideal for spaces like balconies, decks, stairs, and terraces. These systems provide both safety and elegance without compromising your view.

Types of Frameless Glass Railing Systems

Frameless glass railing systems are primarily distinguished by their mounting methods. Here are the most common types:

1.Base Shoe Systems (U-Channel Systems)

One of the most popular types, base shoe systems secure glass panels in a continuous U-shaped channel, mounted to the floor or structural beams. This method offers a clean and seamless look, with minimal visible hardware. After inserting the glass panels, cladding is applied to cover the base shoe for a polished finish.

2. Spigot Systems

In spigot systems, glass panels are held by individual metal spigots (small posts or clamps) bolted directly to the surface. This system offers a contemporary appearance with only small hardware pieces visible at the base of each panel, allowing the glass to appear nearly floating.

3. Standoff Systems

A more minimalist option, standoff systems use round metal discs, or "standoffs," to attach glass panels directly to the fascia or side of the mounting surface. The glass is cantilevered, creating an ultra-modern aesthetic.

4. Short Post Systems

Short post systems use very low-profile posts that provide structural support with minimal obstruction to the view. While slightly more visible than fully post-free designs, these offer greater stability, particularly in outdoor settings.

Materials Used in Frameless Glass Railings

The materials chosen for frameless glass railing systems play a critical role in both aesthetics and durability. Here’s a breakdown of the key materials:

Glass Panels:

Tempered Glass: The most common material, known for its strength and safety. It shatters into small, rounded pieces, reducing injury risk. Laminated Glass: Made by bonding two sheets of glass with an interlayer, laminated glass is ideal for safety applications, as it remains intact even when broken. Toughened Glass: Similar to tempered glass, but processed differently for enhanced strength. Frosted or Etched Glass: For privacy or decorative purposes, frosted or etched glass can be used, especially for pool decks or balcony balustrades.

Hardware:

Base Shoe/U-Channel: Typically made from aluminum or stainless steel, these provide a sturdy base for the glass panels. Spigots & Standoffs: Stainless steel or aluminum posts that securely hold the glass in place. Gaskets & Shims: Rubber or silicone materials are used to cushion and align the glass within the mounting hardware. Sealant: High-quality silicone sealant is used to secure and waterproof the glass panels in base shoe systems.

Cap Rails (Optional):

An optional metal or wood cap rail can be installed on top of the glass panels for added stability and to meet building codes requiring a graspable handrail.

[stevebrown0889]

Beyond Aesthetics: The Unexpected Benefits of Glass Balcony Handrails

Glass balcony handrails provide a myriad of advantages in addition to their beauty. They improve safety, optimise natural light, and enhance energy efficiency. Whether you are building a new house or remodelling an old one, adding glass balcony handrails can greatly enhance the functionality and sustainability of your home.

[dubaitagcurtains1]

Rails fixing services in Dubai are essential for maintaining safety, stability, and structure in both residential and commercial properties. Whether it’s balcony railings, staircase handrails, or wall-mounted safety rails, professional installation and repair ensure they remain secure and functional over time. Rails can loosen due to wear, weather, or structural shifts, and timely fixing prevents potential accidents and property damage. Services typically include tightening, welding, alignment correction, and replacement of damaged parts. Materials like stainless steel, aluminum, glass, and wood are handled based on the design and location of the railings. In Dubai’s construction landscape, where modern interiors meet strict safety standards, reliable rails fixing helps maintain both style and security. Whether you’re upgrading your interiors or ensuring compliance in commercial spaces, professional services ensure durable support and precise alignment. Well-fixed rails not only improve safety but also contribute to the overall finish and comfort of staircases, balconies, and corridors.

[manufacturing-hub]

Top Uses of MS Square Pipe in Modern Architecture

Introduction

Modern architecture is a blend of form, function, and innovation—and at its core lies the use of versatile materials like MS Square Pipe. Known for its strength, flexibility, and clean aesthetic, mild steel square pipe has become a favorite among architects and builders alike.

In this blog, Udhhyog explores the top applications of MS square pipe in modern architectural design, explaining why it's one of the most valuable materials for structural and aesthetic builds.

Why MS Square Pipe Is Ideal for Modern Architecture

Before we jump into the applications, here’s what makes MS square pipe a top choice for architects:

Geometric Precision: Symmetrical square shape provides clean lines and seamless alignment.

Structural Strength: Suitable for both load-bearing and decorative roles.

Ease of Fabrication: Easy to weld, cut, drill, and paint.

Aesthetic Appeal: Gives a sleek, modern look to buildings and interiors.

Cost-Effective: Strong performance without a high material cost.

Top 8 Uses of MS Square Pipe in Modern Architecture

1. Structural Frameworks

MS square pipes form the backbone of modern building structures such as:

Roof trusses

Building skeletons

Staircase supports

Cantilevered structures

Their uniform shape and load-bearing capacity make them perfect for minimal yet strong structural frameworks.

2. Architectural Facades

Architects use MS square pipes in:

Vertical and horizontal facade grills

Frame extensions

Panel-based exteriors

Painted or powder-coated square pipes offer aesthetic continuity with industrial charm.

3. Modern Furniture Frames

From office cubicles to boutique hotel interiors, MS square pipe is used in:

Tables, chairs, and desks

Modular shelving units

Partition frames

Foldable furniture

Its sleek lines and durability suit the urban-industrial design style.

4. Pergolas & Outdoor Structures

In gardens, terraces, and balconies, MS square pipes help design:

Metal pergolas

Gazebo frameworks

Boundary covers

Shade structures

They resist environmental wear when coated properly.

5. Railings and Handrails

Square MS pipe is a common element in:

Balcony railings

Stair handrails

Ramp guides

Walkway fences

It blends aesthetics with safety and conforms to modern design codes.

6. Solar Panel Mounting Structures

With sustainable architecture on the rise, MS square pipes are used to build:

Rooftop solar mounting structures

Ground-mounted solar frames

Adjustable brackets for solar arrays

Their square cross-section provides better wind resistance and panel support.

7. Smart Interior Partitions

In open-plan architecture, MS square pipe creates:

Grid partitions

Glass-supported metal frames

Industrial room dividers

These enhance space division without affecting openness or lighting.

8. Signage Frames and Display Structures

Used in malls, commercial plazas, and offices:

Advertisement boards

Standalone display frames

Name boards and street signs

MS square pipe supports both aesthetics and stability in external displays.

Why Architects Prefer MS Square Pipe

FeatureArchitectural BenefitUniform Cross-SectionClean design and easy fittingCustomizable ThicknessControl over weight and strengthRust Protection OptionIdeal for indoor & outdoor applicationsAffordableCost-efficient alternative to aluminum or SS

Udhhyog – Trusted Supplier of MS Square Pipes in India

At Udhhyog, we supply IS 4923 and IS 1161 compliant MS square pipes in a wide range of:

Sizes: From 20mm x 20mm to 150mm x 150mm

Thickness: 1.2mm to 6.0mm

Grades: YST 210 / YST 240 / YST 310

We cater to bulk orders for architects, builders, contractors, and interior designers across India.

Conclusion

Modern architecture demands materials that are strong, stylish, and functional—MS square pipes check all the boxes. Whether you're designing interiors, building frames, or elevating facades, MS square pipe delivers the strength of steel with the minimalism of modern design.

🔗 Contact Udhhyog today for the best rates, sizes, and delivery options on MS square pipes for your architectural projects.

[coinless-life]

Enhancing Safety with Modern Metal Railings in Toronto Homes

One of the most effective ways to meet all three needs is by installing modern metal railings in and around your home. Whether you’re building a new property or renovating an older one, metal railings in Toronto homes are a smart, long-term investment that offers safety, durability, and a sleek aesthetic.

Let’s explore how modern metal railings enhance home safety while also contributing to overall design and value.

1. Durable Safety Solution for Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Metal railings offer exceptional structural strength, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like staircases, balconies, decks, and porches. Whether you’re protecting children from steep stairways or ensuring seniors have secure handrails, modern metal railing systems are designed to withstand everyday wear and tear.

In Toronto’s climate—where temperature fluctuations, snow, and rain are frequent—powder-coated or galvanized metal railings provide long-lasting protection against rust, corrosion, and fading. Their durability ensures your home remains safe for years with minimal maintenance.

2. Compliance with Ontario Building Code for Added Peace of Mind

Safety isn’t just about materials—it’s also about meeting legal standards. In Toronto, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) sets specific requirements for residential railings, including height, spacing, and load capacity. Choosing a local metal railing specialist ensures that your railings meet or exceed these standards, providing both physical protection and code compliance.

Properly installed railings on stairways, elevated decks, and upper-floor balconies help prevent falls and accidents—making your home a safer place for your family and visitors.

3. Custom Designs to Fit Your Aesthetic and Layout

Modern metal railings offer homeowners a wide range of design flexibility. Whether your home has a contemporary, industrial, or traditional look, metal railings can be custom-designed to complement your architectural style.

Popular design options in Toronto include:

Minimalist stainless steel railings for a sleek, modern interior

Ornate wrought iron railings for a touch of elegance

Horizontal or vertical bar designs with clean lines

Glass and metal combinations for open-concept areas

This adaptability means you don’t have to compromise on beauty to ensure safety.

4. Added Security for Perimeter Fencing and Entryways

In addition to staircases and balconies, metal railings are a secure option for fencing and gated entryways. A solid perimeter railing adds an extra layer of protection, deterring unwanted access and providing a boundary around your property.

Metal gates and railings can be outfitted with locking mechanisms, decorative spikes, or security panels to enhance safety without sacrificing curb appeal.

5. Ideal for Small Children and Pets

Families with young children or pets need to take extra precautions when it comes to staircases, decks, and open balconies. Modern metal railings are built with narrow baluster spacing and sturdy top rails that prevent climbing and slipping through gaps.

Unlike wood, which can splinter or rot, metal provides a smooth, solid barrier that keeps curious toddlers and pets safe indoors and outdoors.

6. Low Maintenance and Easy to Clean

Metal railings are not only safe—they’re also easy to maintain. Most railings just require a periodic wipe-down with a damp cloth or mild soap and water. Thanks to protective coatings, they resist staining, chipping, and corrosion, even in Toronto’s humid summers and snowy winters.

This low-maintenance advantage ensures that your home’s safety features remain in top condition with minimal effort, saving you both time and money.

7. Boosts Property Value and Market Appeal

Homebuyers in Toronto appreciate homes that are secure, stylish, and well-maintained. Professionally installed modern metal railings boost your property’s resale value by combining essential safety features with eye-catching design.

Whether you’re planning to sell in the future or simply want to invest in long-term value, metal railings are a practical way to enhance both function and curb appeal.

Conclusion

When it comes to home safety in Toronto, modern metal railings are a superior choice. They provide unmatched durability, design flexibility, and code-compliant protection for every part of your home—from indoor staircases to outdoor patios and fences. By partnering with a local Toronto metal railing specialist, you ensure a customized, secure, and visually appealing solution that keeps your loved ones safe while enhancing the overall beauty of your property.

[shayannawab]

Break the Frame: Zealcon’s Bold Take on Interior Boundaries

In today’s design world, boundaries are no longer defined by brick and concrete. They are fluid, flexible, and transparent—just like the spaces we live and work in. At the center of this transformation is Zealcon Group, a powerhouse in the Dubai glass industry, known for pushing the limits of traditional architecture. With bold, boundary-breaking innovations like glass partitions and glass rooms, Zealcon is redefining how interiors are imagined in the modern UAE.

Rewriting the Rules of Space

The typical floorplan is evolving. Fixed walls are being replaced with dynamic, light-enhancing solutions that invite openness and interaction. Zealcon isn’t just following this trend—they’re leading it. Their approach goes beyond creating partitions; it’s about reimagining what walls, rooms, and spaces can be.

In homes, offices, hotels, and retail environments, Zealcon’s products are helping designers and property owners break the frame—transforming static spaces into fluid experiences.

The Rise of Glass Rooms in Dubai

Few cities embrace innovation and luxury quite like Dubai. As urban living grows more sophisticated, so does the demand for versatile design solutions. Enter the rise of glass room in Dubai—stylish, minimalist enclosures that provide functional space without sacrificing light, air, or view.

Zealcon’s custom glass rooms are perfect for villas, rooftops, balconies, or commercial lounges. Made with durable aluminum frames and high-performance safety glass, they offer year-round usability, whether you're creating a peaceful reading nook, a climate-controlled tea lounge, or a high-end showroom extension.

Each glass room is tailored to the client’s vision—blending aesthetics with practical needs like soundproofing, thermal insulation, and motorized openings.

GLASS PARTITION Systems: Where Style Meets Function

While traditional partitions block light and create isolation, GLASS PARTITION systems do the opposite—they maintain openness while introducing subtle separation. Zealcon’s glass partitions come in a variety of finishes, including clear, frosted, tinted, and even switchable smart glass for ultimate privacy control.

These partitions are ideal for:

Modern offices: creating separate meeting zones without losing visual connection

Retail stores: highlighting product zones while maximizing space

Luxury homes: segmenting spaces like kitchens, walk-in closets, or home gyms

But what truly sets Zealcon apart is the execution. Their partitions aren’t just installed—they’re engineered. Precision-cut, expertly installed, and designed to last in the UAE’s challenging climate.

Leading the Dubai Glass Industry

With over 15 years of experience, Zealcon is a respected name in the Dubai glass industry, known for its reliability, innovation, and quality. Their deep understanding of local architectural trends, climate demands, and material science positions them as a leader—not just a supplier.

They source only premium materials, offer full in-house fabrication, and follow strict installation standards. This ensures every client—from individual homeowners to large-scale developers—receives world-class service and performance.

Their product offerings go beyond just glass rooms and partitions. Zealcon also specializes in:

Folding and sliding glass doors

Automatic entrance systems

Curtain wall façades

Balustrades and handrails

Aluminum cladding systems

This makes them a one-stop partner for clients seeking modern, functional, and aesthetically sharp design solutions.

Designing for Dubai’s Unique Environment

Designing in the UAE means designing for heat, humidity, and sand. Zealcon understands this better than anyone. Their products are built using high-grade aluminum and toughened glass, which are:

UV resistant

Thermally insulated

Low maintenance

Corrosion-resistant

For glass rooms, especially, these factors are critical. Zealcon’s systems allow for year-round comfort—blocking heat in summer and maintaining warmth in winter—without affecting the beauty of the structure.

Why Breaking the Frame Matters

Breaking the frame isn’t just a design philosophy—it’s a way of creating flexibility and freedom. When clients choose Zealcon, they’re not just choosing a product; they’re choosing the ability to:

Change how their space functions over time

Enhance light, visibility, and airflow

Embrace modern aesthetics without sacrificing comfort

Add value to their property with long-lasting solutions

This is especially valuable in Dubai, where both residential and commercial real estate is evolving rapidly. Spaces need to be adaptive, multifunctional, and visually appealing—and Zealcon delivers on all fronts.

The Zealcon Promise

Zealcon doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every project is treated as unique, with detailed planning, custom design options, and tailored installation processes. Clients can expect:

End-to-end project support

3D design visualizations before installation

Fast, clean, professional execution

After-sales support and maintenance options

It’s this commitment to excellence that has earned Zealcon a loyal base of customers across the UAE—from homeowners and architects to contractors and hospitality brands.

Final Thoughts

The future of interiors lies in openness, adaptability, and design-led innovation. With its bold, boundary-defying solutions, Zealcon is not only part of that future—they’re helping build it, one pane at a time.

From stunning glass rooms in Dubai to intelligent GLASS PARTITION systems, Zealcon is reshaping how spaces look, feel, and function—cementing its place at the heart of the Dubai glass industry.

Ready to break the frame? Zealcon is ready to build your vision.

[unikimrailings]

Frameless Sliding Door Manufacturer: The Ultimate Guide to Modern Elegance

Frameless sliding doors have revolutionized modern architecture, offering seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces while maximizing natural light. As a leading frameless sliding door manufacturer, URAILING specializes in high-quality, durable solutions for residential and commercial applications. This comprehensive guide explores the benefits, design options, installation processes, and maintenance tips for frameless sliding doors, backed by industry expertise.

Whether you're an architect, contractor, or homeowner, understanding the nuances of frameless sliding doors will help you make informed decisions. Let’s dive into the world of sleek, functional, and aesthetically pleasing door systems.

Why Choose Frameless Sliding Doors?

Frameless sliding doors are a hallmark of contemporary design, offering numerous advantages over traditional framed doors.

1. Unmatched Aesthetic Appeal

Frameless sliding doors eliminate bulky frames, creating a minimalist and open feel. The uninterrupted glass panels enhance visibility and blend interiors with outdoor landscapes, making them ideal for modern homes and commercial spaces.

2. Maximized Natural Light

With no obstructive frames, these doors allow 90% more natural light penetration compared to conventional doors. This feature is perfect for energy-efficient buildings and spaces that require bright, airy environments.

3. Space-Saving Design

Unlike swinging doors, frameless sliding doors glide effortlessly along tracks, saving valuable floor space. This makes them an excellent choice for compact urban homes and offices.

4. Enhanced Durability & Security

High-quality stainless steel railing systems (like those from URAILING’s collection) ensure robust support, while tempered glass provides superior strength and security.

5. Weather Resistance & Energy Efficiency

Premium frameless sliding doors feature thermal breaks and weatherproof seals, reducing heat loss and improving insulation.

Types of Frameless Sliding Doors

Frameless sliding doors come in various configurations to suit different architectural needs.

1. Single-Panel Sliding Doors

Ideal for small openings.

Features a single glass panel that slides horizontally.

2. Multi-Panel Sliding Doors

Consists of two or more panels that stack or slide parallel.

Perfect for large openings like patios and balconies.

3. Corner Sliding Doors

Designed for 90-degree corner installations.

Creates a seamless transition between two adjoining walls.

4. Pocket Sliding Doors

Panels slide into a concealed wall pocket.

Maximizes space efficiency in tight areas.

For commercial applications, explore URAILING’s commercial frameless sliding door solutions.

Materials Used in Frameless Sliding Doors

The durability and performance of frameless sliding doors depend on the materials used.

1. Tempered Glass

5x stronger than standard glass.

Shatter-resistant for enhanced safety.

2. Stainless Steel Hardware

Corrosion-resistant and long-lasting.

Includes handrail brackets and posts (check URAILING’s stainless steel hardware).

3. Aluminum Frames (Minimalist Option)

Lightweight yet sturdy.

Powder-coated for weather resistance.

For high-end stainless steel components, browse URAILING’s exterior handrail brackets.

Installation Process of Frameless Sliding Doors

Proper installation ensures smooth operation and longevity.

1. Site Assessment & Measurements

Accurate measurements of the opening are crucial.

2. Track & Frame Installation

The track system must be level and securely anchored.

3. Glass Panel Mounting

Panels are carefully fitted into the tracks.

4. Hardware & Sealant Application

Stainless steel handrail posts (see URAILING’s selection) are installed for support.

Weatherproof sealants are applied to prevent leaks.

For professional installation guidance, consult URAILING’s experts.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

To keep frameless sliding doors in top condition:

✅ Clean glass panels regularly with a non-abrasive cleaner. ✅ Lubricate tracks to ensure smooth sliding. ✅ Inspect hardware for wear and tear. ✅ Check seals for cracks or gaps.

For detailed maintenance advice, refer to URAILING’s stainless steel railing maintenance guide.

Applications of Frameless Sliding Doors

Frameless sliding doors are versatile and used in:

🏡 Residential Spaces (balconies, living rooms). 🏢 Commercial Buildings (offices, hotels). 🌿 Retail & Hospitality (restaurants, showrooms).

Explore URAILING’s glass railing systems for more design inspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are frameless sliding doors secure?

Yes, they use tempered glass and stainless steel hardware, making them highly secure.

2. How much do frameless sliding doors cost?

Prices vary based on size, glass type, and hardware. Contact URAILING for a quote.

3. Can frameless sliding doors be automated?

Yes, motorized options are available for smart home integration.

4. What is the lifespan of frameless sliding doors?

With proper maintenance, they can last 20+ years.

5. Do frameless sliding doors require special cleaning?

No, standard glass cleaners work, but avoid abrasive materials.

Conclusion

Frameless sliding doors are a perfect blend of functionality, aesthetics, and durability. As a trusted frameless sliding door manufacturer, URAILING offers premium solutions tailored to modern architectural demands.

For custom designs, expert consultations, and high-quality materials, visit URAILING’s product catalog or contact their team today.

For global stainless steel solutions, check out Unikim China’s offerings.