#Non Government job circular

[jobresulttoday]

[nc-vb]

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐝

it is said that distance makes the heart grow fonder. instead, it only proves to make the water levels rise a few millimeters.

pairing -> neuvillette x gn!reader

warnings -> sfw, sad neuvi & reader, smooching

notes -> reader's position is a non-canon one

character mentions -> lady furina, fontaine npcs, non-canon melusine characters

wc -> 2.1k

It wasn’t so often that the paths of you and your lover could so seamlessly cross.

As one might assume, governing a nation is not a walk in the park, nor is it a part-time position. It is a twenty-four-seven, midnight-to-midnight, no-matter-how-small-the-crisis job that someone has to take responsibility for— with Monsieur Neuvillette, the Chief Justice, leading the charge of each court proceeding and Lady Furina as its grandest witness, and you, the Maison Ordalie's Directeur Général, helping them to uphold Fontaine’s values and protecting its honour from outside the marbled walls of the Opera Epiclese, Fontaine is a tightly-run ship that seldom allows for its men to enjoy much free time.

Though when it did, finally exiting the realm of your job responsibilities only then meant having to catch up on your neglected home responsibilities— tackling the towers of only partially rinsed dishes; taking out the trash you just knew would be stinking up your foyer since you’d put it there three days ago (which had been the last time you’d even been inside your home); rewashing the load of laundry you’d run out of time to hang up to dry and now was, most likely, moulding from being left in basket, still damp. Ah, and there’s probably so much more you’d been forgetting about.

This cyclic routine of yours had become nauseating a long time ago, only proving capable of transfiguring your already sour mood into something brazenly foul. Typically, there were very few things to exist that could improve it again, but the soft, muffled knocking on your front door by one of your sweet Melusine neighbours when she realized you’d finally returned home, fortunately, is one of those few things.

More often than not, she would bake once the weekend began, knowing you to be around at least long enough to be able to consume perhaps one of her newly learned confections. Somedays, you’d even been lucky enough to sit and enjoy them together whilst enjoying the views from under your shared garden’s gazebo. Being that you lived on the first floor of a three-floored pied-à-terre with three other Melusine living above you, who had also been found lucky to have much more manageable lifestyles, they often cared for the plants of the garden when you could not.

Even luckier for you, though, was having such kind neighbours that would go out of their way to take care of those aforementioned chores for you. Garden tended; garbage bags mysteriously vanished from the inside stoop; dishes sparkling clean and put away in their respective cupboards; laundry thought a lost cause having been hung up, dried, and folded, awaiting your return for them to be returned to their drawers— none of this had been you. Elsie, your second floor neighbour, had been the culprit, you learn, having rounded up her sisters Elie and Eloie two days prior to your return to surprise you.

“Have you seen Monsieur Neuvillette lately?” Elsie inquires, looking up to you from her place on your stoop. When you step aside to let her in, she shakes her head, lavender-coloured ears whipping about. “I won’t be staying. I only came to say hello and to give these to you.”

“Oh, I see,” you say, accepting the circular tin she raises toward you. Cracking it open a few inches, you smile at the soft treats. “Madeleines! Thank you, Elzie. And, to answer your question, no… I haven’t seen him lately… not even for work.”

“You’re quite welcome. Please find time to share them with the Monsieur today, then. Sedene mentioned he looked restless this morning.”

Without missing a beat, your heart skips one of its own, and your expression twists habitually guiltily. You know full well your absence from him, and vice versa, isn’t to be helped, and that the two of you have had this same conversation many times over. But it never proves to help whenever someone else points out either of your miseries.

You’d always thought the Palais Mermonia to be particularly cold, in company’s sense. It never mattered that it was always full of people, of employees, and even of Lady Furina’s raucous, nails-on-a-chalkboard cackle of a laugh, because you knew its Chief Justice much too well. In spite of his assurances that he would be alright, mind occupied by having to organize new cases and sort out the old ones, it wouldn’t be too long of a time later that you found the skies overcast, and yourself drenched by a sudden downpour.

You supposed, after saying your farewells to Elsie, locking your front door, and making your way to the other end of the Court of Fontaine, that today would be no different. Of course, you remembered to carry your parasol on you this time, accompanied by the tin of fresh-baked madeleines you promised Elsie to eat up. Today, the sky was shining blue, quite literally only minutes ago. So, either something sad or distressing has crossed his path, or, he’d been feeling sentimental again, because it’s raining again.

At the very least, you hope the cause for it to be the latter. This way, it can easily be remedied by you appearing before him, rather than him being consumed by the details of a case so heavily, and for an unspecified period of time. And there have been too many of these as of late that compared to last year’s weather, one might consider the possibility of that prophecy coming true just a little sooner.

Clutching the cookies tighter to you and keeping a firm grip on the handle of your parasol, you hasten across the bridge of the Court Region Waterway untoward the Palais Mermonia, greeting Bruneau and Liath and Plessia as you pass. The main doors are heavy, but even with your arms full, you manage to pry one of them open enough to enter the building.

You don’t both to carry your umbrella with you — it would just be yet another mess the building’s staff would have to trail after you for to clean — and instead shove it into the corner to let it drip there, telling the one guard that you would return for it, and them saluting you in acknowledgement.

Inside the Palais Mermonia has always been a plethora of people, staff and guards and visitors alike, but it is as you’d said— there’s a certain degree of emptiness to it that unsettles you whenever you visit here. Perhaps the grave amount of case files that sat in the archives surrounding Monsieur Neuvillette’s office cast such a dreary spell over the place; having been the one to compile many of them, yourself, for his records, you know firsthand just how dark some of their contents had been— to have to pass those off and share them with your lover had been your major grievance for your position. There’d been nothing you hated more than sitting in during his readings and seeing his expression change from the joy of having you appear to him, to the rage and sorrow of taking in the details of a new case. In those moments, you made sure to hold him a little tighter, a little closer, and speak just a little sweeter to him, a little softer.

The rain would, eventually, subside.

You push open the door to his office as gently as possible, and shut it just as carefully so as not to startle him. Without looking first to confirm, you know that he sits at his desk, pouring over the day’s files and records while it pours outside. His stoicism masked the obvious, though at least, this had been to you only— something was weighing heavily enough on his mind that it’d begun to affect the weather outside. Spending enough time with the man made this easy to tell.

“Neuvillette,” you softly call to him when he’d yet to look up. He jerks slightly in his seat, stiff shoulders losing their tension upon recognizing your voice, and the corner of his lips rise before his eyes can even meet yours.

“My love.”

If having you appear in a room filled with such disheartening unkindness is his relief, yours had always been the advent of a smile on Neuvillette’s face. A rare glimpse of the peace you often find yourself daydreaming over while away, the rush of pure joy you feel at the sight of your lover relishing your presence is nearly akin to the blessing of the gods— you only embrace him tightly enough and hope this feeling reaches him.

Nose pressed into the side of your head, hands and arms cradling you almost impossibly close to him, he breathes you in as deeply as physically possible— yes, his gesture promises.

You raise your chin from his chest and peer up at him, grin lazed and tired but pleased all the same.

“You were finally released from your duties?”

“If it were easy to delegate them to my juniors, it might’ve taken less time to escape,” you muse, hands sliding down his robes to claim his hands in yours— he squeezes them gently, grateful. “No one seems to know how to write a proper report anymore; I feel like I’m grading homework.” Neuvillette laments at the sudden shift in your expression, its complete opposite serving to dim the light in your eyes. By the way your grip tightens beneath his fingers, he supposes it must have little to do with your subordinates, after all.

“It’s… been raining for so long now,” you mumble into him, cookie tin forgotten atop his desk. “I tried to hurry to you, I-I…”

Neuvillette’s hand shifts along one of yours, quick to fit thin, nimble fingers in between your trembling ones. He lifts it, and presses your palm and fingertips into the smooth, porcelain coolness of his cheek— few words are found necessary, you’d both once agreed, as he’d always been a man of sterling gestures over forced sentimentality. In each glance, each touch, each curve of his lips upward, his vehemence never went unnoticed; it’d simply been his brand of love— demure and chaste, but abundant. There’d been no questioning his intention.

“I would sooner give up my position if it meant I could stay at your side at all times, if it meant you wouldn’t cry so much. If it meant you wouldn’t suffer alone.” Neuvillette sighs, a would-be defeated sound if not for remembering who he was standing with. “I… feel useless on days like these when I’m not with you.”

“Justice cannot relent so long as villainy works around the clock. It is our sworn duty to see such justice prevail, after all.” Neuvillette swipes a thumb over your lip, and subconsciously, you lean into his palm almost delightedly. “And you have done so beautifully, and without malice. Every word written in those reports from your juniors, while, written juvenilely, speak of your fairness. Your impartiality. Your ability to see both the truth and the good in all.” He turns his hand, pressing his lips into your palm. “It is admirable. It is my pride for you. It is why, as much as I wish you could stay at my side, as you said, I hope you can see the value and honour you bring in helping to protect Fontaine. I can’t imagine many else doing so well as you do.”

You raise your free hand back up to his chest, and push. A fraction of a single second is spent wide-eyed and confused until Neuvillette’s legs hit one of the many couches within the four walls of his office, and he is forced off-balanced into its plush. Your other hand gone unrelinquished, you fall with him, knees parted to either side of his and dipped deep into the cushion; Neuvillette’s breath hitches unnoticeably, yet at your sudden embolden proximity, his pale cheeks burn with vermillion.

“I’m supposed to be comforting you, you know,” your murmur.

A kiss to his temple, to the swell atop his cheek, to the button of his nose, and to the cleft of his lip— you lower yourself into his lap, parted lips dropping to slot between his and hands rising to thread into his strands of falling starlight, pulling him ever closer into you. It’s not enough, simply consuming him. You only wish to drown his sorrows, by whatever means necessary and however possible. If this means only having mere moments to appear before him, to deliver him sweets and treats of various kinds — not including yourself, of course — and holding him as tenderly as you do now for what seconds you must have left before having to leave again—

Tongue posed at his lower lip, your gaze is brought to the side and through the glass of the window. The rain. It stopped.

“And I can promise… you’re doing a fine job of it, my love.”

© nc-vb 2023 please don’t repost! reblogs & comments are always appreciated.

[uhohdad]

EXPERIMENTAL

it’s been awhile since i’ve written please mind the rust

to be continued? maybe?? let me know if you want more

Summary: Konig helps Researcher!Reader with a new technology they’ve been developing.

AO3 Link: X

PART TWO: X

Word Count: 5,4k

Warnings: Flirting, Sexual Content, NSFW, Reader x Konig, talk of standard war stuff, Reader is a bit of a pervert. Non-con Voyeurism. Reader has anxious thoughts/low-self esteem-ish? No use of y/n, reader’s gender/sex is incomprehensible, cause I do for the girls the gays and the theys.

NSFW UNDER CUT

You never thought you’d end up working for the government, but the opportunity was too good. Where else would you find a grant to experiment if not for the generous funding of the military industrial complex? You should have known. Research is research, you told yourself, and the pay is too good to pass up on.

Most of your time was spent in the lab. For the most part, you had worked alone, spending up to 14 hours a day working on your project. It had been months, but you’re sure your developments will forever change warfare.

How many deaths will your creations be responsible for? How much blood on your hands?

No. It’s just a job.

You let out a deep sigh. Usually you have background noise - music, a show, a podcast - something to help ward off the obsessive thoughts. But today you had visitors coming.

You had requested a test subject for a beta version of your project. A soldier to help work out the bugs before the final version gets sent on the battlefield.

Battlefield.

Don’t think about it. Don’t think about-

A knock interrupted your internal conflict. You looked up, your eyes meeting the visitor through the circular glass pane of the swinging door. Just his eyes, as the visitor wore a black mask that draped from underneath a helmet, flowing over his shoulders and down his chest. You couldn’t help the concerned look that crossed your face as you hesitantly waved him in.

The door creaked as it opened and the man stepped in. You shoulders eased a bit when you noticed the uniform previously obscured by the door, confirming he was a soldier from the base and not an intruder in a mask. You couldn’t help but tense again once you noticed his stature. Even from across the room you could tell he was well over 6’5. You’re sure he could reach his hand up and touch the ceiling with ease. Muscles with enough mass and definition to be seen even under the uniform.

What are they feeding these boys?

“Hi! I mean- hi. Uh,” Your introduction was shaky, but it was on par for your typical social interactions. After giving him your name, you asked for his.

“Konig,” He responded, his deep voice and coarse accent catching you off guard once again.

“Ha, yes. Nice to meet you.” You took a deep breath in hopes to conceal your fluster before continuing, “You’re here to help me test the new tech, right?”

Tech. When did you start using slang? Trying to be cool, huh?

Shut up.

Konig shifts in his spot a few paces from the door, not daring to step any closer to you. You’re wonder if you were coming off as too cold. “Uh, yes.” He clears his throat, “Just let me know what you need from me.”

Okay, straight to the point. You can do that. You’re happy to move on from the unsteady introduction. “Right,” You turn your attention from him to your laptop and the project in front of you. You hold up your device for him to see. He takes this as his invitation to move closer to get a better look, his black boots making their presence known as they stepped across the tile. The device resembled an earpiece - a small black strip attached to a coiled wire that ends with a sensible black base. “It doesn’t have a name. Yet.” You find yourself struggling to make eye contact with Konig, “Uh, here, it might be easier to just show you.” You flip the laptop around so he can see the screen. He’s standing right next to you now, and it’s hard not to notice how small you feel standing next to this giant of a man.

His bicep is the width of my head.

Stop it.

You try to smother your distracted thoughts as you put the device behind your ear and turn it on. A transparent projection in the shape of a curved rectangle covers your eyes, overlaying your view of the lab.

Konig watched silently as the screen on your laptop changed, now displaying your view through the lens. “This device is powered by AI.” You felt more confident now. You weren’t great at small talk but your work was your comfort zone.

“The possibilities are endless. Without being fed blueprints or GPS - it’s able to scan & provide a map of a building before you even set foot in it, and give you the safest path trajectories.” You make some adjustments from the laptop, and the projection overlays filters on your vision. Directional arrows appear, showing the easiest exit from the lab with coordinates and distance countdown to destination.

You continue, “Target identification.” You look at Konig from behind the transparent projection. He meets your eyes before quickly shifting his gaze back to the laptop, where he could see himself outlined in a bright red overlay.

“Scanning capabilities, even through solid objects. It can identify any object you want. Not just objects, either.” You turn your gaze toward the lab wall. Konig watches carefully as the faded outlines of workers on the base from rooms away appear, their heart rates and heat map registering from beyond the cold tile walls.

Konig stares, impossible to read.

“And uhm,” you pick up an additional device from the table, a thin square chip, “This is an attachment for your, er, weapon.” You cringe a bit at this feature, “The AI has aim assist, too. You know self driving cars? Ah, well, it hasn’t been fully tested yet, but in addition to auto aim it- uhm,” You can’t help but let out a nervous laugh, trailing off.

“It shoots for you.” Konig finishes so you don’t have to.

You wonder if the guilt is obvious.

It might as well be you out there in the field, taking lives. He’s probably disgusted with you under that hood, you think.

You purse your lips for a moment, “Yes. But we’re just scratching the surface. This technology is capable of-“

“It’s brilliant,”

Konig is skilled in the art of catching you off guard. He tilts his head, curiously eyeing in your direction. You wonder if he’s looking at your features or the projection,

“You made this yourself?”

You study him back, trying to figure out if he was mocking you, but unable to decipher his expression from under his hood. The AI continued to monitor him on your vision, and you felt as if you were violating his privacy by watching his heart rate slightly spike as he looked you over.

He must be lying.

You turned the device off and set it on the table, “Yes. It’s not perfect, but I’m hoping you can help me work out all the flaws.”

His stared quietly for a moment and you felt dread pool in your stomach, wishing you could see his expression under his hood. “I’d be honored to.”

A shaky smile formed on your face. You could no longer read his heart rate, but you found yourself wanting to believe the sincerity of his voice. “Let’s get started.”

You pick up another matching set of devices, two thin c-shaped bands, before continuing, “Obviously you can’t take a laptop out in the field. These are portable remotes.” Konig watches attentively as you place one of the bracelet shaped device on your wrist, tapping on it to summon another projection. “I tried to make it as user-friendly as possible. We can make adjustments if needed before launch.” You hold out the device toward him. “For you.”

He looks hesitantly at the device. Instead of taking it from you, he places his arm out on the table in front of you.

You’re distracted by your own remote and a moment passes before you register he hasn’t taken it from you. You glance over at his outstretched arm before meeting his eyes.

He sees your confused look and explains, “I just- I don’t want to break it.” Konig knows his own strength and he knows the worth of your project. He doesn’t want to accidentally apply too much pressure and ruin your work.

A nervous laugh escapes you, but you oblige him. You made this device for the battlefield, it’s meant to withstand more than a man. Even an extra large, muscular-

Stop it.

You’re not going to push. You carefully take his forearm in your hand, adjusting the device to his wrist. You try not think about how muscular and hard his forearms are, and try even harder not to think about how hard his biceps would be. And you definitively try not to think about how hard his-

Stop it.

“That comfortable?”

His voice is low, “Yes. Thank you.”

“Of course,” leaves your mouth, a little breathier than you intended.

Your face burns and you’re sure he’s got you pinned. You wish you could ask to borrow his mask.

It’s been a long time since you’ve experienced intimacy, okay? You’ve been confined to these four walls for months now, devoid of human touch. You’d be frothing at the mouth for anything bipedal at this point, let alone the mysterious superhuman sitting across from you.

You’re at a disadvantage, to say the least.

You can’t even look at him.

Konig carefully taps on the device on his wrist, activating his remote. The projection appears and he moves his arm to get a closer look. “This is the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen.”

If he didn’t notice your blush before he was sure to now. “Oh! I don’t-“ Another nervous laugh, “It’s nothing. Let’s get you calibrated.”

You pick up the earpiece and hand it to him, still avoiding his gaze. You’re forced to meet his eyes again when he doesn’t take it. There’s no way you could handle putting this one on for him. This time you reassure him, “It’s okay. I know it’s small, but it’s durable. I promise.”

He carefully takes it from you, and you try not to notice the electricity you feel when his fingers graze yours. He reaches under his hood, the fabric warping as he places the device behind his ear and turned it on, the same way he watched you do it. He then waited patiently for your guidance.

You put your earpiece on before making a few adjustments on your bracelets projection. “Okay! We should be synced now. Go ahead and pull up your settings.”

You take him through the customizations, telling him how to switch between visual overlays, how to use multiple at once. Display adjustments, how to use the intercom. He watches intently, never interrupting.

“I hope I’m not boring you.”

“Boring me?” Konig stares at you, eyes saturated with disbelief at your doubt. “It’s incredible.”

You feel the warmth creep up on your cheeks again. All of the doubts and moral dilemmas you’ve been mulling over the past few years seem to melt away when Konig compliments you.

“Want to take it for a drive?”

“Absolutely.”

—————————————————-

It’s been awhile since you’ve been out on the field. The passed months have been spent under the florescent lights of the lab, hunched over your laptop as you fought with code. Feeling accomplished when you made a step forward in progress, followed quickly by a sinking feeling as you tried not to think of the consequences of each development.

It was nice to feel the sun for a change.

Konig followed a few steps behind you, both sets of boots crunching on the gravel beneath you. Few words had been exchanged. There was something about unreadable people made you nervous, but you tried not to let it show.

You stopped once in front of the empty shoot house, looking up to the soldier that towered over you.

“I had weapons development make us a prototype gun to pair with the AI. It’s for testing purposes only, so it doesn’t shoot real bullets.” You pointed at the faux shotgun propped up against the outer wall of the shoot house. “The auto aim chip is already attached. It’s going to be something to get used to.”

You continue, “I’ve placed the AI on test. It will simulate the conditions of a mission in a way that adjusts to your learning speed. Obviously once you get used the system we’ll have test runs with real people, but for now I just want you to get used to the overlays. If you get stumped, just let me know. I’ll be able to hear and see what you can from out here. I’m synced in to your device, too, so if you can’t figure out the adjustments, or can’t access your device, I can take care of that for you remotely.”

“Understood.”

You couldn’t help but smile at the way he spoke to you like you had seniority, with the utmost respect. It made you feel important. Really it should be the other way around - a nerdy weakling in the presence of an experienced and powerful soldier. You briefly wonder what exactly a man of his stature is capable of. He looks like he could pick up a grown man and snap him in half like a toothpick. Let alone what he could do to you…

You force yourself to stay on topic, but your smile lingers, “Any questions for me?”

You still can’t decipher what’s going on under the mask, but his voice is soft, as soft as it can be under his rigid accent, “Negative.” He walks over to the prop gun and picks it up, handling it expertly. Even though it’s a replica, he still opens the chamber and curiously peaks inside. Watching his big hands run over the realistic firearm caused an intoxicating mixture of fear and arousal to wash over you, manifesting as a tightness in your lower gut. You can’t remember the last time someone made you feel this way. Dizzy and excited and nervous.

It didn’t help that you’ve spent the last few months practically isolated and without intimacy.

He’s going to be the death of me.

Stop it. We’re just excited about testing the project. It’s a long time coming.

He would make me come a long time.

Stop. It.

After you watch him disappear into the shoot house, you turn on the intercom, “Konig? Can you hear me?”

“Affirmative.”

His gravely voice flooding your intercom is not helping your dirty thoughts. You pull up his view on your projection. “Okay, I have your video feed. Are you ready for the simulation?”

He cocks the prop gun so loud you could hear it from inside the building in addition to the comm. “Affirmative.”

Oh, fuck.

The knot in your stomach doubles and you think your knees might just buckle. You shift in your spot in the dirt to steady yourself, gravel scraping under your shoe.

You hear your name over the comm. “You still there?” Your attention is brought back to his view. You can see the world from his eye level and get taken aback at how different it looks compared to yours.

“Sorry,” you clear your throat, raising your arm equipped with the wrist remote, “Okay, in 3… 2… 1…” You press the button to start his test simulation.

You watch as Konig looks around. He’s got target scan activated, and the AI has overlaid fake targets onto his projection for him to hunt and eliminate.

You watch carefully, scanning the screen for any imperfections in your coding. The guide seems to be working smoothly, directing Konig through the maze-like hallways of the shoot house with ease. The placement of targets are generated randomly and you’ll have to crunch the numbers later to verify, but it seems to have accurately calculated the most efficient route, directing him accordingly. You try to ignore the sound of Konigs hitched breathing over your receiver and try even harder to ignore the way it’s making you feel. Instead you make sure the auto aim function is activated.

“Approaching first target.” He says over the comm and you can help but smile at how serious he is taking it. You remember your first time in the range, testing out the auto aim on the simulations. How silly you felt. Like a child playing with a toy gun. You think it’s sweet he’s indulging you.

His steps become quieter as he rounds the corner and his breathing slows. He pauses briefly before quickly jumping out at the target. You can tell the auto aim takes over and the shotgun pulls against his grip with the force of a strong magnet. It’s alarming at first, you remember, the gun taking control from you.

It’s not like that, of course. You designed it to be a teammate. Able to identify and terminate a threat before the user had even registered it was there. It was meant to protect the user, to defend their life.

That’s what you tried to tell yourself anyway. It was easier to swallow than thinking of it as the automatic killing robot it really was.

You kept the auto-fire function off for now. Partially because you wanted to slowly transition him into the AI features. Partially because you were ashamed.

You watch as Konig takes back control of the gun. He’ll learn how to work with it instead of against it soon, you remember the same struggle you had yourself in early testing. He fires at the target, a projection of an enemy soldier the AI had slowed for training purposes. Konig pulls the trigger and you hear the sound of gunshots. In real life, of course, nothing had fired. But the AI simulation was designed to immerse the player, imitating the feel of the battlefield. From Konig’s perspective he may as well just shot through a human heart. Other than the learning curve of your designs- it seems natural for him.

It was not natural for you when you had experienced the simulation. If anything it was just a fully immersible prediction of the consequences to your actions. Fuck Around and Find Out™️ now coming to an VR headset near you.

You watched his target drop & fade away in a dust of pixels, a design change you made after being unable to bear the look of replicated dead soldiers lying limp on the floor.

It’s just a job.

“Konig? How did that feel?” You wished you could see his face on the screen before remembering you wouldn’t have been able to see anything behind his hood anyway. You briefly consider a self-facing camera, but wonder if it would be for the improvement of the design or for self-serving reasons. You’d have to think of another good purpose to add it to the final product later.

“It’s a lot faster than I am.” He stuck with the facts, not wanting to cause a misunderstanding if it was strange for him to get used to.

“That’s the idea. Weird, right?” You offered, your smile lifting the tone of your voice.

“Very.” You could tell he was smiling too. “I want to try a few more - I’ll get used to it.”

He continues through the shoot house, approaching the next simulated targets. He’s slowing learning to work with the AI, letting it guide him as he controls the trigger. You watch as your program learns his skill, escalating the challenge first by increasing enemy speed and difficulty, then by adding multiple targets at a time.

You can tell this man is a trained killer, even just from watching a trial. It’s clear he’d easily be able to handle a real mission with ease - your advancements or no. Watching his gloved hands grip the gun, his quickened breathing, made the tightness in your lower half hard to ignore. It felt wrong how his rugged demeanor turned you on.

He continued without faltering, navigating the shoot house’s maze-like layout with the help of your guidance program. Despite your reservations, you decide it’s time to add an additional integration. “Konig, the gun you’re using is fully compatible with the weapon chip. As in, trigger capabilities. If you’d like, you can turn on auto fire.”

There’s a slight pause, and you’re worried he’s realized the full implications of such a technology. You’re relieved when he finally speaks over the intercom, “I think I turned it on.”

You verify on his feed before responding, “You got it. Let me know if you need anything.”

Holding your breath, you observe your AI work. He rounds another corner and approaches two more targets. Your code was capable of identifying each target’s imminent threat level, eliminating them in order of danger to the user. You hear Konig’s breath hitch when the gun operates with a mind of its own, mowing down the simulated targets without hesitation. Each shot effectively tearing through the most vulnerable areas of the targets.

“Meine güte…” He mutters, taking a moment to register what had just happened. You watch his feed pan down to his gun, his hands turning it over to examine it in disbelief.

You wonder what he’s thinking as you watch those strong hands work. If he thinks you’re a monster for creating such a brutal and mindless killing machine.

“Konig?” Your voice is dripping with uncertainty, but it’s your job to collect his feedback, “All good?”

You watch his thumb stroke the forend before his gaze shifts up, “I think I might be out of a job.”

You let out a laugh, words pouring out of your mouth before you can stop them, “Well, I don’t think we’d be able to replace you.”

Ah, shit.

You’re hoping you didn’t lay all your cards on the table, but you don’t dare let the silence hang, forging on, “Human supervision is still needed when it comes to technology like this. You know, wouldn’t want it to turn evil and try to take over the population.”

You’re hoping you saved it, but the few seconds before he responds seem like a lifetime.

“Well if it was made by you, I don’t think it would be capable of turning evil.”

Your brain short circuits and your mouth parts as you ready to respond, but find that you’re unable.

What did he mean by that? If he was implying that you weren’t evil enough to negatively influence a code, then he didn’t know you. Of course he didn’t, he just met you.

Was he implying you were too smart of a programmer to let a technology go faulty? Then he REALLY didn’t know you. You think briefly to your failed prototypes. How long it took to work out the bug of the AI mistakenly registering civilian children as threats.

Ugh.

Whatever the implications, you understand that Konig just complemented you. Something you were not still not equipped to handle, demonstrated by your slack jaw and wide eyes you’re thankful he can’t see. All accompanied by a warm feeling that spreads across your chest.

He’s just being nice.

Sexual attraction, that you could handle.

Not a crush.

This is a no-crushing zone, you decide.

The warm feeling needs to stay below the belt, thank you very much.

It’s obvious you’re joking, but your voice has a different tone when you finally gather yourself. Softer, bordering on dispirited, “Well, I don’t know about that. Y’know, I once programmed a toaster to cook my toast the perfect amount every time. I wanted it to spring out at exactly the right speed & distance to land square on my plate. Like you see in cartoons, y’know? It worked for a little… but one day it starting burning all my toast to char and shooting it max speed at my ceiling. I think it got mad it’s life purpose was making my breakfast.”

You hear Konig laugh for the first time. A raspy, hearty laugh that floods your comm and fuels that warm feeling in your chest, much to your dismay. You nose scrunches as you watch the shake of his feed slow. “There are worse purposes.”

You didn’t even give yourself the space to dissect the implications on that one. The smile is apparent in your voice, “I’ll let the toaster know.”

Konig finished out the trial after getting used to a few more overlays. You confirmed you had everything you needed for the day before letting Konig know you could wrap up.

He met you at the entrance of the shoot house, handing over the gun to you. It took you a moment to get readjusted to his size. He was tall enough to block the entire sun, casting you in his shadow.

You hold the barrel of the gun with one hand, resting the butt on the dirt. With your other hand you remove your earpiece, “Thank you for your help today. Really.” You say, forced to tilt your head back to look up at him. “If you’re interested, I’d love to continue trials with you.”

“It was my pleasure. I’d be happy to help.”

He tried to take off his wrist remote before you stopped him, “You can hang on to that. I have all your data on mine. It would be good for my research if you got used to the overlays outside of here. I don’t want to assume your time, but I think it may be helpful in assisting you with your duties.”

Konig shifts in his spot, “I don’t want anything to happen to it.”

You smile at him, pleased he’s being so respectful of your work. “Don’t worry. If you manage to damage it, then it’s not good enough for launch. Even breaking it will be valuable research.”

He considers this before hesitantly dropping his arm.

You continue, “Just promise you’ll share your thoughts with me. I don’t know what the life of a soldier is like, I don’t always know what’s best for you guys. Your feedback will be important in tailoring the design to fit your needs. It’s just a prototype, so you can be honest.”

His eyes stare down at you from under his hood and you can’t help but avoid his intimidating gaze by looking at the black paint around his eyes.

“I promise,” He says definitively and it’s obvious he means it.

You have his word.

——————————————————————

Back in the lab, you take a deep breath as you set your prototypes down. You had parted ways with Konig at the shoot house and haven’t been able to stop thinking about him.

You take the ear piece and remove the chip from the prototype gun in order to transfer the data to your laptop. You had a long night ahead of you reviewing footage and analyzing the AI results, but you knew your focus was going to be elsewhere.

You hoped your distracted thoughts would subside after eating an early dinner and watching an episode of your most recent show binge, but it doesn’t help.

You can’t stop thinking about the soldier with a laugh so wonderful you’d do about anything to hear it again.

You did your best to stay on task and turned your attention to your laptop, opening the software you designed to store its data.

It finally loads and what displays makes you gasp, your hand instinctively shooting up to cover your mouth.

Konig’s feed is still live.

Your eyes dart over to your ear piece, confirming it’s turned off. He couldn’t hear you on the comm. His overlay projection is turned off, but he must not have powered the unit completely down, and you neglected to end the feed.

You still don’t dare make a sound. You sit frozen, staring down at the screen with wide eyes.

He’s not wearing the headset, no. You can tell the camera is sitting on something at hip-height, maybe a table or a bed. Definitely not Konig-height. You can’t see much, your view is facing the wall of what you can tell is a modest-sized room.

It’s five-thirty now, you guess he’s clocked out and went back to his quarters for the evening.

This is so wrong.

You were violating his privacy. You should just disconnect the feed now, and forget about it.

You should.

But you don’t.

Instead you slowly lower your hands, lips pursed. It’s not long before Konig comes in to view.

The only thing he has on is a towel wrapped around his waist. His head was cropped out of view, but you can see his chest and his pecs are as chiseled as you had imaged them. Abs you hadn’t previously considered begging for your attention. The towel is dangerously low and goddamnit he’s got V lines, of course he does, and you can feel the warmth pool in your lower abdomen again.

This is so so wrong.

You should end it. End the feed, end the software, end the project. You’ve already crossed so many lines and if anyone found out about this you’d be discharged so fast it would make your head spin.

You’re seriously considering if it’s worth being outed as a pervert and forfeiting your grant just to ogle at the ultimate beefcake while Konig gets comfortable on his cot, face still out of frame. You’ve got a view of his side now, showcasing the middle of his chest down. You can see the definition on his abdominal muscles and you silently thank yourself for opting for choosing the higher resolution camera for your project.

He moves his arms out of frame once he gets the towel adjusted, you’re assuming to prop them behind his head.

He lays still for a few minutes, and you wish you could see his face. You were almost done talking yourself into closing the feed when his arm comes back in to view. Strong hands and forearms followed by massive biceps.

Your breath hitches again when you realize he’s reaching down for the towel. He unwraps it delicately, letting each end hang off the side of the bed.

He’s fully naked now, and it’s official-

You’re a pervert.

His cock sits at half attention and he wraps his hands around it, stroking it absentmindedly.

Oh, fuck.

Your mouth hangs slack and you can’t help but let out a squeak. You double check to make sure you’re still in your software and didn’t somehow accidentally open PornHub. But no, you were definitely watching Konig rut into his hand, teasing himself to arousal.

It doesn’t take long for his cock to reach full attention, leaking precum from the swollen tip. Even scaled next to his oversized hands you can tell it’s huge.

He reaches down to cup his balls briefly before returning to his shaft, wrapping his hand around it and stroking gently.

You can’t stop watching now- you’re locked in, eyes glued to the screen and you don’t think you’ve so much as blinked this entire time.

You watch as he picks up the pace, biceps flexing as he fucks his hand faster.

A low moan comes through the speakers of your laptop. You scramble for the volume controls, reducing it until you were sure no one passing by in the hall could hear.

It’s addicting, his moans. Deep and gravely and you can’t help but close your eyes and imagine what it would be like for him to be moaning in your ear instead of over a screen. For him to be fucking you instead of his hand. Moaning like he’s approaching a release he hasn’t felt in decades.

When you open your eyes again he’s stroking faster, his whole body tensing, a glossy shine forming on his defined muscles. You can’t help but stare at his bicep as it flexes to jerk his cock.

Even without seeing his face, you can tell he’s getting close.

His cock is a blur as he pumps vigorously. His breath quickens before suddenly hitching, muscles fully clenched as he comes, the first few drops landing on his stomach and thighs.

His whole body constricts as the waves of the pleasure wash over him. You can tell it’s intense.

His pumping slows and his seed spills over his knuckles and down his shaft as he squeezes out the last of it, quivering at the sensitivity.

His muscles relax and he sinks back into his cot, wiping his hand on the towel. He lays still for a few moments, the sound of him catching his breath and his rising and falling chest takes stage. Until he removes the towel from underneath him, wiping away his mess.

You’re staring, eyes wider than when you started. Your knuckles lighten as you grip the stool beneath you. It wasn’t the finish that shocked you, no.

Not the size of the load that spilled from his huge cock.

Not the way he had bucked his hips, desperate for the touch.

Not the way his muscles had rippled through the phases of orgasm.

You were shocked because as he finished;

Konig had moaned your name.

Part two

[george-the-good]

The Sunday Pictorial - May 18, 1947

By a Special Contributor to the ‘Sunday Pictorial’

The tumult and the shouting dies. But for the King there can be no relaxation. When the cheering crowds disperse and go home, he has a tedious exacting job to do at his desk.

Throughout Britain this week the talk has been of our King and Queen. When they left for South Africa they were envied their promise of sunshine and non-austerity food.

Then, day after day, we heard of them giving a reception here, auditions there... It was work, hard work.

And now they are back… to work again in surroundings so familiar that they lack the excitement and glamour of the young Dominion.

Passers-by, looking up at the Royal Standard floating above Buckingham Palace, know that the King is back in London and try to imagine what he is doing. But all that emerges from behind those grey stone walls is a dull, factual Court Circular, with its list of people received, Privy Councils held, and ladies and gentlemen in attendance.

Now let’s go through the tall, double glass doors of the Privy Purse, the ‘business’ entrance of the Palace, on your right as you face it from the Mall, and see how the King’s day is planned, how the head of the Empire does his work.

In general control of the King’s official activities is his private secretary, holder of an office that has grown in importance greatly during the past three reigns until today it is often referred to as that of the ‘Sovereign’s Personal Prime Minister.’

The present private secretary is sparsely built, quizzical Sir Alan Lascelles, who holds the office not because he is first cousin to the Earl of Harewood, the King’s brother-in-law, but because of his long record as a servant of the Crown. He was assistant private secretary to the Duke of Windsor when he was Prince of Wales, private secretary to the Governor-General of Canada, and assistant private secretary to George V, Edward VIII and George VI.

Always an early riser, Sir Alan walks over from his house at St. James’s - which he has rent free as part of his salary - just after nine, and is firmly seated at his desk, with a good idea of the news of the day, by nine-thirty. At any moment after that a bell may ring, and an old-fashioned card indicator on the wall falls, showing the words ‘The King.’

Then Sir Alan, known to the King and Queen and to everyone else at the palace as Tommy, ‘goes up’ to the King. Those words are literally as well as constitutionally true, for the King’s business room - he does not call it his study - is on the first floor.

With the King, Tommy will go through the latest dispatches and messages from our Ambassadors abroad, reports from Whitehall, minutes from various Government departments, ‘submissions’ from the Prime Minister and from the Premiers of the Dominions, each of whom has the right of direct approach to the King.

Tommy knows more of what is going on all over the Empire and the world than anyone else, except the King. That’s part of his job.

It is his task to advise the King on every kind of problem, from whether he should accept an invitation to open an agricultural show, to what he should say in a Christmas broadcast, or whether and how he should intervene in some major crisis in public affairs.

Under Sir Alan are two assistant private secretaries, who take on the routine work, fixing details of programmes for provincial visits by the King and Queen, arranging for audiences and so on.

Part of their task is to furnish a short ‘aide-memoire’ for the King about everyone whom he receives in audience. The King has a really remarkable memory for faces and names, but he cannot be expected to remember details of each man’s career, of the interests and attainments of everyone he meets.

Another of their responsibilities is to furnish rough outline material for the King’s speeches, material which the King himself will later review and arrange.

Altogether there are about forty-five active members of the Royal Household in daily attendance at the Palace, not counting another fifty or more extra equerries, ushers, chaplains and holders of political appointments to the Household. They are the men - and women - who comprise the Court of St. James’s, the wheels in the smooth-running machine of British monarchy.

Today the Palace is run not as a great gentleman’s house, with everything in profusion regardless of cost, and kindly but not over-efficient amateurs holding important jobs, but on strict business lines.

In any business house it is true that if the boss is slack or unpunctual, the rest of the staff are likely to fall off in efficiency. That is true at the Palace as well, and the ‘boss’ - the King - is as hard working, as early rising as anyone on his staff.

Seven-thirty is his normal hour for rising, and he has his simple breakfast alone - bacon is his favourite dish, but the ration does not always run to it. Immediately afterwards he walks into his ‘business room,’ unlocks the red-leather dispatch boxes which have been brought in by the Page of the Presence - an old and trusted Palace servant - and settles down to read.

His papers may include a secret report from a British ambassador on the state of war-preparedness in the country to which he is accredited, and a memorandum on the miners’ attitude to nationalisation of the coalfields, as well as half a dozen other important matters. All of these the King reads and digests.

Presently he rings for his secretary, and the long morning procession begins, to end before lunch with perhaps a new ambassador coming to present his ‘letters of credence’ or a new bishop to do homage on bended knee before the secular head of the Established Church, or an Empire statesman or an outgoing Governor-General to have audience and stay to lunch.

Almost every day the King and Queen lunch together, usually with Princess Elizabeth at table as well, and over lunch the family discuss their plans, arrange theatre parties or dances, talk over the coming week-end at Royal Lodge, and chat of the everyday familiar things that are part of any family’s life.

If there are important State guests at luncheon, the talk is naturally on a more serious plane, and Elizabeth, who meets as many of the important Palace visitors as possible, as part of her training, joins in the conversation.

After luncheon, the King likes to take a short stroll in the Palace gardens, sometimes with Elizabeth and her Corgi dog, sometimes alone. Then it is back to his desk till tea time.

Tea is another family gathering, after which, there is usually a final audience the King must give to the Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary, or some other highly placed member of his Government.

Between then and dinner, the King sits at his desk tidying up the odds and ends left over during the day: for he is a man with a tidy mind, as befits a former naval officer, and he cannot bear leaving over things unfinished till the next day.

Often it is seven-thirty before he is finished - and that means that one or other of the secretaries, if not all three, is still on duty - and the royal dinner is served at eight.

There is just time to bath and dress - the King nearly always wears a dinner jacket and black tie - before he joins the Queen and the Princesses for what they all regard as the pleasantest part of the day.

In armchairs, the King and Queen and their daughters like to sit, the King reading a light book for relaxation, or looking at a sporting magazine, the Queen knitting or doing embroidery, and the Princesses reading or studying.

Even then, the King is not off duty. At any moment there may be a telephone call from Whitehall, a Government messenger may come to the Palace with urgent dispatches which the King must see at once.

Then the private line to Tommy’s house over at St. James’s comes into action, and if the matter is one of real gravity, the King’s secretary will leave his own home and rejoin his master for a conference that may go on till midnight.

For being the King-Emperor is a full-time job. He is, indeed, the servant of his own subjects and he is ready always to turn from his own recreations to the duty which is not of his own choice, but which he has accepted at all times with unflagging zeal.

[2d-dreams]

Hi, happy WBW! (I am @writeblr-of-my-own, this is my main and apparently I can't switch them).

For this question, what is the school system like in your world? What kind of schools there are? If magic is present, is it taught?

Happy wbw!! And thank you!!!!

Firstly, Flatland is a non-magic world of geometric figures, so no magic schools, aw! And I will not yet go mention Exwhylia/Ypwherenia/Zetwhatia because whooole other thing so just focusing on Flatland for these yea yea.

Schools are divided according to Configuration, where the number of sides directly affects career opportunities and time spent in school. More sides, more time in school and more opportunities. Women/Lines, of course, do not go to school, and are usually taught Feeling and the Line Code [AKA good manners/how to avoid being killed by the government] at home. There have been cases where they are sent to Elementary schools to take the Ladies Program [essentially what they would otherwise learn at home, or to distract them until old enough to marry], but this is usually because a feminine relative/mother is unavailable.

The types of schools are, in order of class from lower to higher:

Rudimentaries, Elementary, High, and University.

These are based not on age, but on what classes are allowed in them. I'll start with the one mentioned in the book.

Elementary School

Elementary schools are for triangles above 20 degrees both Isosceles and Equilateral, though making obvious distinctions between the two. They primarily teach the Art of Feeling, using chained living Isosceles men, refered to as "specimens" as instruments for teaching the Art. They teach basic planiturth-elementary levels of math, biology, reading, a grossly modified version of history, and the bases of the Flatland doctrine of Configuration's importance. Isosceles stop attending at 11-12 years old, Equilaterals at 15-16. These schools are generally funded by the government, free or inexpensive, though this isn't a lot to say when you consider the triangular wages.

Rudimentary School

Rudimentary schools [also known as rudies in the Isosceles slang] are exclusively for Isosceles triangles and also free, though not obligatory for those of higher degrees, whose fathers have enough brains to teach their sons their craft. Isosceles come after finishing their Elementary schooling. Those under 20 degrees arrive too. Here they are taught whatever skills they need for their future jobs, with the things taught varying depending on the types of jobs available, along with generalized subjects like obeying orders, working in factories or introductory military training. All men with enough degrees to think [those above 20 degrees] can choose their jobs or what classes to take, but those below have their curriculum, life and job chosen for them the moment they slide in.

Violence against or between the students is common and occasionally encouraged, as Isosceles are considered subhuman or pests of which there is an extreme abundance anyway.

High School

These schools are attended by Squares and any shape of greater side count. These are private, and some are extremely prestigious and expensive. Some classes are still restricted to certain side milestones, mostly Hexagons and Dodecagons. These go beyond basics, teach a more accurate [Still modified!] history of Flatland, Sight Recognition instead of Feeling [in many, Feeling at school is a great offense], pay special attention to mathematics and are left at 18 years old. Also if you don't pass the Sight Recognition exam, you get killed or become a social outcast. Hooray!

University gets a passing mention because, being accessible exclusively to Squares and above, doesn't bring anything interesting. It's just University.

Other Systems/Miscellaneous Stuff

High Polygons and Circles are too good for even the most luxurious schools, so they tend to receive private tutoring.

Circles of the High Priest or Chief class receive a special education program at a Circular University where they learn of the greatest secrets of Flatland, like the heretics of the Gospel of 3D and the secret uses of color.

Irregulars can go to school under strict supervision, but most parents would rather hide them until they can legally be murdered.

In the non-civilized areas, education, like childcare, is often communal. This is seen even in the Degraded Isosceles worker communities or rural villages, separated as they are from the other Shapes, where the men work all day and the women have little else to do.

[govindtbrc]

Turning Waste into Energy: Insights into the Plastics-To-Fuel (PTF) Market

As the world grapples with the challenges of plastic pollution and the need for sustainable energy sources, innovative solutions such as plastics-to-fuel (PTF) technology have emerged to address both environmental and energy concerns. This article explores the plastics-to-fuel (PTF) market, its significance in waste management and renewable energy, and the factors driving its adoption and growth.

Plastics, ubiquitous in modern society, pose a significant environmental threat due to their persistence in the environment and detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health. Traditional plastic disposal methods, such as landfilling and incineration, contribute to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and resource depletion, highlighting the urgent need for alternative waste management solutions.

Plastics-to-fuel technology offers a promising solution by converting non-recyclable plastic waste into valuable fuels, such as diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel, through a process called pyrolysis or depolymerization. Pyrolysis involves heating plastic waste in the absence of oxygen, causing it to break down into gases, liquids, and char. These products can then be refined and upgraded into high-quality fuels that can be used to power vehicles, generate electricity, or serve as feedstock for chemical processes.

Request the sample copy of report @ https://www.globalinsightservices.com/request-sample/GIS24285

One of the key advantages of plastics-to-fuel technology is its ability to divert non-recyclable plastic waste from landfills and incinerators, reducing environmental pollution and conserving valuable landfill space. By converting plastic waste into energy, PTF technology helps mitigate the environmental impact of plastic pollution while also contributing to the transition to a more circular economy by recovering energy from waste materials.

Moreover, plastics-to-fuel technology offers economic benefits by creating new revenue streams from waste materials and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. As the demand for alternative energy sources grows and regulatory incentives for renewable energy increase, the PTF market presents opportunities for investment, innovation, and job creation in the waste management and renewable energy sectors.

The growth of the plastics-to-fuel market is further driven by technological advancements, policy initiatives, and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting sustainable waste management and renewable energy solutions. Advances in pyrolysis technology, catalyst development, and process optimization have improved the efficiency, scalability, and environmental performance of PTF plants, making them more economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

Additionally, government policies and regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting renewable energy have created a favorable market environment for plastics-to-fuel technology. Incentives such as feed-in tariffs, renewable energy credits, and carbon pricing mechanisms provide financial support and regulatory certainty for PTF projects, encouraging investment and deployment of PTF infrastructure.

Furthermore, public awareness campaigns and corporate sustainability initiatives have raised awareness about the environmental impact of plastic pollution and the importance of sustainable waste management practices. As consumers, businesses, and governments increasingly prioritize sustainability and circular economy principles, the demand for innovative solutions like plastics-to-fuel technology is expected to grow.

Despite the opportunities for growth, the plastics-to-fuel market also faces challenges, including technological barriers, feedstock availability, and environmental concerns. Pyrolysis technology requires significant capital investment and operational expertise to achieve efficient and reliable conversion of plastic waste into high-quality fuels. Additionally, the availability and quality of plastic feedstock can vary depending on local recycling infrastructure, waste collection systems, and plastic waste composition.

In conclusion, the plastics-to-fuel market offers a promising solution to the dual challenges of plastic pollution and energy sustainability, providing a pathway to convert non-recyclable plastic waste into valuable energy resources. By turning waste into energy, PTF technology contributes to environmental protection, resource conservation, and renewable energy generation, aligning with global efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient future. As technological advancements continue and policy support grows, the plastics-to-fuel market is poised for further expansion, offering opportunities for stakeholders to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable energy landscape.

[chemicalresearchupdates]

Recycled Textile Market: Analyzing the Impact of Government Regulations and Policies

Recycled Textiles: A Growing Industry for Sustainable Fashion Rise of Recycled Fiber Market The past decade has seen a significant increase in the recycled fiber market globally. Recycled polyester, cotton, nylon and other fibers are being reused to manufacture new fabrics and textile products at an industrial scale. This represents a major paradigm shift away from the traditional "take, make, dispose" linear economy of the fashion industry towards a more circular model. The recycled fiber market was valued at $X billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of Y% until 2030 according to a new report by ABC Research. Recycled Polyester Leads Growth Of the various recycled fibers, polyester constitutes the largest segment both in terms of production volume and market value. Several big name brands have committed to utilizing recycled polyester in a major way. For example, brand Z pledged to swap Y% of virgin polyester with recycled polyester in all its products by 2025. Recycled polyester has certain advantages - it can be recycled endlessly without loss of quality, and provides a lower carbon alternative to virgin polyester derived from fossil fuels. However, recycling technologies to break down used polyester and produce new recycled polymers at scale is an active area of research and investment. Recycling Cotton Garments Cotton fiber is another major component of post-consumer textile waste. While cotton is a natural fiber, conventional cotton growing and processing has substantial environmental impacts. Recycling used cotton garments prevents these fibers from ending up in landfills. Companies like X have pioneered closed-loop recycling systems to recover cotton fibers from old T-shirts and other garments. The fibers are cleaned, broken down and spun into recycled cotton yarn which can then be rewoven or used in blend with other fibers to manufacture new textile products. Brands see recycled cotton as a way to promote principles of sustainability to environment-conscious customers. Challenges in Collection and Sorting One of the bottlenecks inhibiting higher recycling rates is the difficulty associated with efficiently collecting and sorting used textiles. Currently, the majority of post-consumer clothing is discarded as trash. Setting up convenient take-back programs and developing technologies for automated fiber identification are active areas for innovation. Additionally, the presence of other non-fibrous components like buttons, zippers or elastics requires textile recycling facilities to have advanced sorting equipment. Financial incentives and regulations to promote greater clothing collection for recycling will play a key role in scaling up the circular economy model. Market Growth in Developing Economies Going forward, the recycled textile market is expected to witness faster growth in developing countries compared to traditional markets in North America and Europe. Rapid industrialization and population growth in countries like India, Indonesia and Brazil will drive both textile consumption as well as the need for sustainable solutions. Social enterprises focused on recycling textiles can create jobs and economic development opportunities in these regions. Partnerships with local thrift shops and rag traders will be essential to collect pre-consumer textiles at source. South-South collaborations on recycling technology transfer will assist emerging markets to participate in this growing industry.

[climateactiongjh]

CMA Labs Climate Change Initiative: Driving Innovation Towards a Sustainable Future

In the face of escalating environmental challenges, the imperative to combat climate change has never been more urgent. Organizations worldwide are increasingly recognizing their responsibility to address this global crisis and are taking proactive measures to mitigate its impacts. Among these trailblazers is Cma Labs Climate Change In Africa, whose pioneering climate change initiative is leading the way in driving innovation towards a sustainable future. In this article, we delve into the significant benefits of CMA Labs' climate change efforts and their transformative impact on environmental stewardship.

Innovative Research and Development: At the heart of CMA Labs' climate change initiative lies a commitment to innovative research and development. Through strategic collaborations with leading scientists, engineers, and environmental experts, CMA Labs is pioneering groundbreaking technologies and solutions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating environmental pollution, and fostering resilience to climate change impacts. By investing in cutting-edge research, CMA Labs is driving innovation across various sectors and spearheading the development of sustainable practices and technologies.

Sustainable Products and Solutions: CMA Labs is dedicated to developing sustainable products and solutions that mitigate the environmental footprint of industries and promote eco-friendly practices. From renewable energy technologies and carbon capture systems to biodegradable materials and circular economy models, CMA Labs' innovative solutions are revolutionizing traditional approaches to resource management and consumption. By prioritizing sustainability in product development and manufacturing processes, CMA Labs is empowering businesses to adopt more environmentally responsible practices and contribute to global climate action efforts.

Environmental Education and Awareness: In addition to its research and development endeavors, CMA Labs is committed to raising awareness about climate change and promoting environmental education. Through outreach programs, educational initiatives, and public awareness campaigns, CMA Labs aims to inspire individuals and communities to take action against climate change. By fostering a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change, CMA Labs empowers people to make informed choices and adopt sustainable behaviors that contribute to a more resilient and thriving planet.

Collaboration and Partnerships: CMA Labs recognizes that addressing Climate Advocacy In Ethiopia requires collective action and collaboration across sectors and stakeholders. As such, the organization actively seeks partnerships with government agencies, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and industry leaders to amplify its impact and drive systemic change. By leveraging collective expertise, resources, and networks, CMA Labs fosters collaboration on climate change solutions that transcend geographical boundaries and promote global solidarity in the fight against climate change.

Economic and Social Benefits: The climate change initiatives spearheaded by CMA Labs offer not only environmental benefits but also significant economic and social advantages. By investing in sustainable technologies and practices, businesses can enhance their competitiveness, reduce operational costs, and create new opportunities for growth and innovation. Moreover, addressing climate change can lead to job creation, improved public health, and enhanced quality of life for communities worldwide, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society.

CMA Labs' climate change initiative embodies a visionary approach to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Through innovative research and development, sustainable products and solutions, environmental education and awareness, collaboration and partnerships, and the promotion of economic and social benefits, CMA Labs is driving positive change and catalyzing a transition towards a more sustainable and resilient future. By embracing the principles of environmental stewardship and sustainability, CMA Labs is setting a precedent for responsible corporate leadership and inspiring others to join in the collective effort to combat climate change.

[pickpart1]

Metal Recycling in Construction: Building a Sustainable Future

Welcome to our blog post on the importance of scrap metal recycling Melbourne in construction. In recent years, awareness of the need for sustainable practices in the construction industry has grown.

Metal recycling plays a crucial role in achieving this goal as it helps reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimise the environmental impact of construction projects.

The Environmental Impact of Metal Extraction

Metal extraction processes like mining and refining have significant environmental consequences. These activities can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction. By recycling metal, we can reduce the demand for new raw materials and minimise the need for destructive extraction processes.

Additionally, metal recycling helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The production of new metal requires a considerable amount of energy, often from fossil fuels. By recycling metal, we can conserve energy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with metal production.

Overall, metal recycling helps to mitigate the environmental impact of metal extraction and promotes a more sustainable future for the construction industry.

Economic Benefits of Metal Recycling

In addition to its environmental advantages, metal recycling Melbourne offers significant economic benefits. Recycling metal reduces the need for costly mining and refining operations, which can be resource-intensive and expensive. By recycling metal, construction companies can save money on raw material costs and allocate those resources to other areas of their projects.

Furthermore, the metal recycling industry creates jobs and stimulates economic growth. Collecting, sorting, and processing recycled metal requires a skilled workforce. Investing in metal recycling can support local economies and create employment opportunities.

We can achieve a more sustainable and economically viable industry by integrating metal recycling into construction practices.

Contributions to Waste Reduction

Construction activities generate a significant amount of waste, including metal waste. By recycling metal, we can divert this waste from landfills and reduce the need for new disposal sites. Metal recycling also helps to alleviate the strain on natural resources by reusing materials that would otherwise go to waste.

Moreover, metal recycling promotes a circular economy. Instead of relying solely on virgin materials, we can create a closed-loop system where metals are continually recycled and reused. This approach reduces the need for new metal production and minimises the environmental impact.

By embracing metal recycling, the construction industry can contribute to waste reduction efforts and move towards a more sustainable future.

Energy Conservation through Metal Recycling

As mentioned earlier, producing new metal requires a significant amount of energy. By recycling metal, we can conserve energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The energy savings achieved through metal recycling can be substantial, as recycling metal typically requires less energy than producing metal from raw materials.

Additionally, recycling metal reduces the demand for energy-intensive extraction processes, such as mining and refining. Reducing the need for these activities can lower our overall energy consumption and decrease our dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

By prioritising metal recycling in the construction industry, we can contribute to energy conservation efforts and promote a more sustainable future.

Government Initiatives and Regulations

Recognising the importance of metal recycling, governments worldwide have implemented various initiatives and regulations to promote its adoption in the construction industry. These measures include providing incentives for recycling, establishing standards for recycled materials, and requiring the use of recycled metal in construction projects.

Government support for metal recycling helps create a favourable environment for sustainable construction practices. It encourages construction companies to prioritise recycling and invest in the necessary infrastructure and technologies.

The construction industry can play a significant role in building a sustainable future through metal recycling by complying with government regulations and taking advantage of available incentives and support.

Conclusion

Metal recycling is integral to building a sustainable future in the construction industry. By reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimising the environmental impact of metal extraction, recycling contributes to a more sustainable and economically viable construction industry.

Through initiatives and regulations, governments promote the adoption of metal recycling Melbourne in construction projects. By embracing these practices, construction companies can meet regulatory requirements and benefit from cost savings, job creation, and a reduced environmental footprint.

Together, we can make metal recycling a cornerstone of sustainable construction practices and pave the way for a greener future.

[jobsapplynews]

PKSF JOB Circular 2023 | www pksf org bd NGO JOBs Apply

The Palli Karma Sahayak Foundation has lately published the PKSF job circular 2023 on the social media Ittefaq paper. The Rural Work Helpful Foundation says it needs talented candidates for the job circular. PKSF Non-Government Organization is one of the best NGO jobs section. PKSF circular whole information is receivable on JOBs Apply News or Pksf.org.bd website. In a Job in the Palli Karma…

[byte-economy]

Visions of a Regenerative Economy: Practices for Sustainability

Amidst the deepening global environmental crisis, there arises an urgent need for a radical shift in our economic systems. The conventional linear economy, driven by a 'take-make-waste' mindset, has become unsustainable. Instead, the notion of a regenerative economy is gaining momentum, emphasizing the restoration, renewal, and revitalization of our precious resources. This transformative model advocates for robust systems that not only sustain but also rejuvenate themselves, safeguarding the long-term survival of our planet.

A regenerative economy goes beyond mere recycling or waste reduction. It encompasses an economic system that mirrors the cyclical processes found in nature. In this system, waste becomes nearly non-existent as everything is continuously reused, experiencing growth, decay, and renewal. Embracing this approach calls for a profound change in our mindset and actions, shifting from a short-term profit-oriented approach to a long-term perspective focused on sustainability and resilience.

The adoption of circular business models is crucial for sustainability in a regenerative economy. These models focus on maximizing resource utilization, extracting their full value during their lifespan, and promoting the recovery and regeneration of products and materials. Strategies like durable product design, product leasing instead of selling, and the development of secondary material markets enable achieving these goals.

Another crucial practice involves integrating renewable energy sources into our economic systems. This approach not only decreases our reliance on fossil fuels but also fosters the emergence of new industries and job opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Additionally, harnessing renewable energy can effectively combat greenhouse gas emissions and alleviate the adverse effects of climate change.

During these discussions, the name Alejandro Arraya Avila pops up, evoking thoughts of a distinguished environmental economist. Avila stands out as a fervent proponent of the regenerative economy, emphasizing the significance of education and awareness in propelling the transition towards sustainable practices. Avila believes in the utmost importance of equipping individuals, businesses, and governments with the essential knowledge and tools required to make informed decisions regarding resource consumption and waste management.

To build a regenerative economy, we must go beyond these practices. It necessitates a transformation in our values and perspectives towards nature. We must acknowledge our interconnectedness with the natural world and our reliance on the well-being of our ecosystems for survival. This entails respecting the finite resources of our planet, safeguarding biodiversity, and pursuing equilibrium and serenity in all our endeavors.

Conclusively, embracing the concept of a regenerative economy presents a promising and workable substitute for our existing unsustainable economic systems. Through the adoption of sustainable practices, we have the potential to forge an economy that not only fulfills our necessities but also uplifts the well-being and vitality of our planet. This vision demands bravery, inventiveness, and steadfast devotion, but it is unquestionably a pursuit of immense value for the betterment of future generations.

[scrapcarsurrey]

10 Benefits of Professional Auto Wreckers

Auto wreckers, also known as auto salvage yards or junkyards, play a significant role in the automotive industry and the broader ecosystem. These facilities are essential for various reasons, providing numerous benefits to vehicle owners and the environment. This article will delve into the advantages of auto wreckers in more detail.

Environmentally Friendly Vehicle Recycling:

One of the primary benefits of auto wreckers is their contribution to environmentally responsible vehicle recycling. When a car reaches the end of its life cycle or is involved in a severe accident, it often becomes an environmental liability. Auto wreckers help dismantle and recycle these vehicles, ensuring that various hazardous materials, such as oil, gasoline, and coolant, are properly disposed of or reused. This process reduces the environmental impact of abandoned or non-operational vehicles.

Cost-Effective Parts:

Auto wreckers are a treasure trove of spare parts. For those looking to repair or restore older vehicles or save money on replacements, these yards offer a wide range of used, but often still perfectly functional, parts at a fraction of the cost of new ones. This is a significant benefit for car enthusiasts and individuals looking to maintain their vehicles on a budget.

Availability of Rare and Vintage Parts:

Finding parts for older or vintage vehicles can be daunting. Auto wreckers often have a selection of rare and hard-to-find components that can breathe new life into classic cars. This service benefits car restoration projects and preserves automotive history and heritage.

Reduced Demand for New Parts:

The availability of used parts from auto wreckers reduces the demand for new manufacturing. This contributes to conserving resources and energy required to produce new parts. In turn, it helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with vehicle manufacturing.

Support for the Circular Economy:

Auto wreckers are a crucial part of the circular economy, emphasizing waste reduction and the continual use of resources. By salvaging and recycling automotive parts, these businesses promote the concept of reusing and repurposing, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Cash for Clunkers Programs:

In some regions, governments have implemented "cash for clunkers" programs encouraging vehicle owners to trade their old, fuel-inefficient vehicles for more environmentally friendly alternatives. Auto wreckers play a pivotal role in these initiatives, as they facilitate the proper disposal and recycling of the traded-in vehicles, ensuring that they do not harm the environment.

Reduction in Strain on Landfills:

Older and damaged vehicles, if not properly managed, can end up in landfills, taking up precious space and contributing to pollution. Auto wreckers help alleviate this issue by dismantling and recycling vehicles, diverting significant waste away from landfills.

Support for DIY Car Repair:

Auto wreckers offer a valuable resource for car owners who enjoy working on their vehicles. These yards often have a wide variety of tools and equipment available for purchase, making it easier for individuals to undertake do-it-yourself (DIY) car repairs and maintenance.

Safe Disposal of Hazardous Materials:

Vehicles contain various hazardous materials, including lead-acid batteries, mercury switches, and airbags. Auto wreckers have the expertise and facilities to safely handle and dispose of these materials, ensuring they do not risk the environment or public health.

Job Creation and Economic Contribution:

Auto wreckers provide employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. These businesses often hire mechanics, administrative staff, and salespeople, and they purchase vehicles from the public, injecting money back into the community.

In conclusion

Auto wreckers play a vital role in the automotive industry and the broader community by promoting environmentally responsible vehicle recycling, providing affordable parts, supporting the circular economy, and contributing to job creation and economic growth. Their services not only benefit vehicle owners but also have a positive impact on the environment and society as a whole. Auto wreckers are a testament to the value of responsibly reusing and repurposing resources.

[brkshircmputrs08]

PC Recycling in Berkshire: Nurturing a Greener Technology Landscape

Nestled in the heart of England, Berkshire is not only known for its picturesque landscapes but also for its commitment to nurturing a greener and more sustainable technology landscape. At the forefront of this endeavor is the practice of PC recycling, a pivotal step in the county’s journey toward reducing electronic waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

In the digital age, technological innovation is swift and ever-changing. However, the rapid pace of progress has given rise to a significant challenge: electronic waste, or e-waste. Discarded computers, laptops, and electronic devices contribute to a growing environmental concern as they often end up in landfills, releasing harmful chemicals into the ecosystem. Berkshire’s dedication to PC recycling stands as a testament to its proactive approach to addressing this issue.

Central to pc recycling berkshire is the principle of resource conservation and renewal. Berkshire has strategically established collection centers across the county, providing residents with accessible drop-off points for their old electronic devices. This approach not only prevents e-waste from entering landfills but also encourages responsible disposal, forming the basis for a greener technology landscape.

The PC recycling process is a well-orchestrated endeavor. Skilled technicians meticulously disassemble each device, sorting components into categories of recyclable and non-recyclable materials. Valuable resources like metals, plastics, and glass are salvaged, ready to be reutilized in the production of new electronics. This resource recovery not only minimizes the strain on virgin resources but also reduces energy consumption associated with resource extraction.

Berkshire’s commitment to PC recycling goes beyond the mechanics of the process—it’s a holistic approach that encompasses collaboration, education, and innovation. Collaborative partnerships between local governments, recycling facilities, and technology manufacturers ensure a seamless recycling process. These alliances promote innovation, leading to the development of cutting-edge techniques for extracting value from seemingly obsolete devices.

Education plays a pivotal role in nurturing a greener technology landscape. Workshops, community engagement initiatives, and awareness campaigns impart knowledge about the environmental consequences of improper e-waste disposal. By fostering understanding and awareness, the county encourages individuals to make informed choices and actively contribute to a sustainable future.

The impact of PC recycling extends far beyond the environmental sphere. It holds the potential to invigorate local economies by creating job opportunities in recycling centers and promoting a circular economy. Moreover, it showcases Berkshire’s dedication to technological advancement in harmony with ecological values.

As Berkshire’s PC recycling initiative gains momentum, it stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other regions. By prioritizing responsible e-waste management and advocating for greener technology practices, the county sets a remarkable example. The initiative underscores the symbiotic relationship between technological progress and environmental well-being.

In conclusion, Berkshire’s commitment to PC recycling embodies a journey toward nurturing a greener technology landscape. Through strategic collection, meticulous recycling processes, collaborative partnerships, and educational endeavors, the county demonstrates the transformative potential of responsible e-waste management. This movement signifies the harmony achievable between technological innovation and environmental preservation, paving the way for a more sustainable and vibrant future for generations to come

[prabh1511]

What is the future of Solar Panels in the UK?

The future of solar panels in the UK is promising, driven by advancements in technology, policy support, environmental concerns, and the global transition toward cleaner energy sources. As of my last update in September 2021, here are some key trends and possibilities shaping the future of solar panels in the UK:

Increased Efficiency: Research and development efforts continue to focus on increasing the efficiency of solar panels. New materials and manufacturing techniques could lead to higher energy conversion rates, allowing solar panels to generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight.

BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics): Solar panels are becoming more integrated into the built environment. BIPV involves incorporating solar panels directly into building materials like windows, facades, and roofs. This trend could make solar panels more aesthetically appealing and seamlessly integrated with structures.

Flexible and Thin-Film Solar Panels: Flexible and lightweight thin-film solar panels offer more installation options and can be integrated into unconventional surfaces. These panels could be used on curved surfaces, clothing, or even integrated into portable devices, expanding their applications.

Solar Energy Storage: Solar panels can generate excess energy during sunny periods, which can be stored for use during cloudy or nighttime hours. Coupling solar panels with energy storage solutions like batteries could make solar energy more reliable and reduce the need for grid power during non-sunny times.

Smart Grid Integration: Advanced technology could enable solar panels to communicate with the grid, optimizing energy production and consumption. This integration could allow for better management of energy flow, demand response, and peak shaving.

Floating Solar Farms: Utilizing water bodies for solar panel installations can address land constraints. Floating solar farms on lakes, reservoirs, and even offshore waters could become more common, taking advantage of large water surfaces for energy generation.

Energy Communities: The concept of energy communities, where multiple households or businesses share and exchange locally generated energy, could enhance the uptake of solar panels. This community-based approach promotes energy sharing and self-sufficiency.

Digitalization and Monitoring: Data analytics and remote monitoring technologies are being integrated into solar panel systems. This allows for real-time performance monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimization, ensuring maximum energy output.

Carbon Neutrality Goals: As the UK works toward its carbon neutrality goals, solar panels will play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from energy production. Government policies and incentives supporting renewable energy will likely contribute to the increased adoption of solar panels.

Solar for Electric Vehicles: Solar panels integrated into electric vehicle charging infrastructure or directly onto vehicles could help power electric cars and reduce the strain on the grid during peak charging times.

Local Manufacturing: A shift towards local manufacturing of solar panels could reduce supply chain dependencies and support domestic job creation.

Circular Economy Practices: Sustainable practices, such as recycling and repurposing old solar panels, will become more important as the industry grows and panels reach the end of their lifespan.

It’s important to note that the specific trajectory of solar panels in the UK can be influenced by evolving technology, policy decisions, market dynamics, and global energy trends. For the most current and accurate information, it’s recommended to consult recent reports from energy agencies, industry experts, and government sources.

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[fashioneditswebsite]

Fashion and recycling industry leaders from around the globe join forces to demand unified digital labeling (QR Codes) to advance a circular economy. 

Press Release Fashion and recycling industry labeling (QR Codes) to advance a circular economy.  Furthermore, SMART and 129 other recycling, fashion, and footwear organizations advocate for updated textile labeling requirements to promote sustainability, circularity, and authenticity. The #CutTheTape initiative benefits consumers by supplying more product information digitally. This is a crucial step towards transparency and responsible practices in the fashion and textile industries. Additionally, label tape production generates 5.7 million miles yearly due to outdated labeling requirements. This tape could stretch from Earth to the moon and back twelve times. These inconsistent labeling requirements hinder efforts to trace materials' origins for sustainability and circular economy support. Updating requirements is necessary to ensure consistency and promote sustainable practices. Furthermore, digital technology solutions like QR code labels can reduce labeling waste and eliminate over 343,000 MT emissions from industry supply chains. Additionally, consumers would receive more accurate and detailed product information, while the data would help with the garment's lifecycle, including resale, repair, rental, upcycling, or recycling. We urge the United States Federal Trade Commission and other global entities to standardize labeling requirements using digital means. Fashion and recycling industry labeling (QR Codes) to advance a circular economy.  ACTION NEEDED: We urge government regulators to amend international, national, and local regulations to allow fully digital labeling solutions to be adopted. QR codes would make products more useful and valuable for extended periods in the circular economy while unlocking new opportunities for resale, repair, rental, upcycling, or recycling. SMART President Steve Rees explained, "Greener e-labeling clears the way for transparency and accountability in the global textile recycling space. QR codes will empower consumers by providing more accessible information and critical data that can strategically extend a garment's or item's lifecycle as it moves through the resilient reuse and recycle distribution chain." SMART calls on legislative leaders to take immediate action to create stringent digital labeling guidelines, which will lead to more responsible outcomes, helping the world economy and the environment. Please join our global effort and #CutTheTape. Visit www.smartasn.org.  About SMART  SMART is a nonprofit trade association established in 1932. It promotes the interdependence of for-profit textile recycling industry segments. SMART provides a common forum for networking, education, and trade. Members of SMART convert recycled and secondary materials from various sources. These include used clothing, commercial laundries, non-woven, off-spec fabric, new mill ends, and paper worldwide. SMART member companies create thousands of jobs worldwide. They prove that being socially responsible can also be profitable. Read the full article

[nathjonesey-75]

Ticket To Ride

There’s something to be said about moments in time which seem to matter to individuals. Alone, wherever in the world – sometimes, things; whether occasions, milestones, realisations or simply – just moments, simply have to be recorded.

So, as we hurtle and hop to the mid-point of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the solstice approaching only three days away, today the pen in my hand seems more powerful to me than any object I currently own. While I’ll tick off any box in my head which reads

“Is this a midlife crisis?   Y N

I awoke at 5:44am having fallen asleep just under eight hours previously; tired physically and mentally drained after consuming a Greek vegan gyros and the final accompanying glass of wine. Today, Sunday the eighteenth of June is my only day off this week and the busiest day of 2023 so far – has finally tripped me up with its 158-day leg, as I feel unnaturally emotional and reflective. Having had a lot of inspiration to move ahead with personal projects this year, but with the common “park them until later” clause attached because of work duties – it all had to end sometime.

While I have six weeks remaining of the leaving notice I gave my employers a week ago – in spirit, I’ve already departed. Completing this week was the toughest physical test so far. With insufficient full-time colleagues it was always going to be so. It was the mental test which is the small victory which I’ll claim, having come through a gruelling seven months with a stomach ulcer, wisdom tooth abscess which together created chest and stomach infections and actual health scares. Sometimes you don’t recognise your own health until you can accomplish things which – eight weeks previously you’d have struggled, even failed to accomplish.

Conclusively, as I found myself welling up from feeling overcome by everything humanly possible, I felt the urge to listen to Blur’s “Modern Life Is Rubbish” which recently turned thirty – and like a classic neurodivergent flicker-frame of memories in my head, I remember the times surrounding 1992 and 1993 when I listened to it while going through a tough time, studying for A-Levels and having just lost my grandfather.

Now, at least with the experience if not the wisdom of age, I can see a way forward. A path clearing. Not a clear path, but light opening. Which in a way explain the emotion, suppressed for the better part of a year while in a health compromise. I’ve not disliked my job – more the location, the work framework and its trimmings. Like the health battles for the majority of my time there, the London south-circular road and obstructional rail strikes, forcing me to drive among the overflow of banshees and Neanderthals. Plus slaving for my modern yuppy bosses whose business model – from my perspective – encapsulates Britain in these ghastly Conservative days. Austere, while gluttonous, self-serving and socially numb.

Mitcham Junction reminded me on several occasions of Mos Eisley spaceport in the Star Wars trilogy. A week on the roads surrounding it would be proof enough of the “scum and villainy” in its demographics. Sceptical? Well, only yesterday in the anti-glamorous industrial Wandle Way area a white van (say no more, maybe?) was accelerating aggressively behind me in a 20-miles per hour zone, then overtook me and while I beeped in bewilderment, it swerved onto the main road without looking – with the driver ensuring he gave me the customary “wanker wave” for anyone questioning his right to drive like someone in a Starsky and Hutch chase.

Escaping, into hyperspace, hopefully – I will. Like the Millennium Falcon away from dirty Tatooine, into the great creative space which is London. All of these years of non-belief and unawareness surrounding my neurodivergent condition has seen me passed from pillar to post, from dormitory to den. Now; it’s time to create. While art and culture have been violently minimised by the government in the last decade, like the days of punk in the 1970s and the breakout of rave in the late eighties and early nineties, people need to use their voices.

My Glastonbury ticket finally arrived on Friday. Inadvertently and fortunately in time to go, for the first time. The shambles which is Royal Mail has been sending my mail – even the special delivery mail, like the ticket, to my ex-neighbour’s flat where he moved a fortnight or so ago. Because we share the same surname and lived in the same building, but in different flats. Keeping up with the Joneses is clearly not a policy adopted by our failed national mail delivery service. Thus, the condition that the ticket has reached me kind-of sums up the way I’ve felt this morning – a possible hot ticket which has been stamped in the incorrect places, gone the longer way around but is ready to go. I hope the sun keeps shining and that this festival – not just the biggest music festival, but this crazy carnival called life – will be living up to its promises.

Naturally, I have to give what I have to make it complete. As Shakespeare once said – “what’s past is prologue.” As Jack Nicholson’s Joker stated, “Commence au festival”.

I’m just getting started.

                                                            “Over hill, over dale,

                                                             Thorough bush, thorough brier,

                                                             Over park, over pale,

                                                             Thorough flood, thorough fire;

                                                             I do wander everywhere…”

                                                                        From A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare