#Using Cards In Faceted Search

[secriden]

God, Fadel is just so helplessly in love and so painfully resigned to his harrowing existence that it just fully broke my heart.

Because Fadel thinks that everything Style has told him -- every single facet of Style's frustratingly fascinating character, everything he thought he knew about Style -- has been a lie from the very beginning. In his confession, Bison never clarifies when he told Kant to find someone to pursue him, so Fadel is operating under the assumption that Style is, and has always been, a stranger to him.

Which is why we see Fadel constantly trying to 'figure' Style out in the episode. We see it right in the first scene when Style jokingly snarks, "I'm just curious to know what to expect. It's not like I can just turn the switch on, you know?" Now this should not have thrown Fadel at all, because the joke and suggestive tone and sassy little head flick is very much in line with Style's personality and way of communicating.

But Fadel literally just stops and stares at Style for so long that Style even starts looking a bit confused as he blinks back at Fadel. Fadel has convinced himself that Style is some master manipulator, and he's trying desperately to figure out what Style's plan is (escape? another betrayal?) that he misses the obvious answer which is that Style is just casually making a joke/conversation because this is just how Style talks.

Look at the way he turns so sharply with this startled, confused look (that starts to turn slightly wistful at the end) when Style calls him faen. This wasn't in the cards for Fadel and it's so frustrating and confusing (and painful) to hear Style throw the lie around so casually when it was something that mattered to him. Fadel thinks this is Style playing an angle but he can't see what it is or what Style stands to gain from it, and it leaves him utterly unmoored.

And in all this searching for hidden meanings and new deception, Fadel misses that Style is acting very much in good faith: the story Style comes up with about why they're looking for a missing person on their own like this (instead of, y'know, going to the police like upright, non-hitman citizens would've) was really good to explain their urgency/frustration and preempt any suspicion so that the auntie is unlikely to report them to the cops. Style is actively, genuinely helping Fadel out and using his excellent skills at playing Asian aunties to full effect for him.

Ugh, just look at how earnest and worried Style's expression is!? He totally disarms the auntie while I bet she would've been a lot more suspicious and distrustful if grumpy face on the left had come asking questions alone.

And Fadel literally keeps missing when Style is being honest. Or rather, he is wilfully refusing to believe or trust in that earnestness. Style hasn't made any attempts to run away or even hint to the auntie that he needs help, but Fadel won't trust him (because he's still, even now, waiting for the other shoe to drop; for yet another betrayal).

And Style keeps doing and saying things that don't make sense for the role Fadel's assigned him because why would a police informant who is just trying to get evidence of your crimes say or do any of this?? What does he stand to gain by keeping up the pretence? Does he know that every word that dangles his love like an impossible temptation is more knives in Fadel’s chest? But Style is all earnestness and something in Fadel can still recognise that and that’s why Fadel is constantly swinging from anger and resignation to agony and hope. Just the look of sincere, wordless, helpless bafflement on Fadel's face!? The way it screams 'Why are you doing this to me??!??'

I think this is why we get silly-goofy-funny music for the first half of Style's harrowing confession. Because this scene is shot from Fadel's perspective and he thinks, at first, that this is yet other play or ridiculous attempt to get a rise out of him. And it's not until Style starts talking about his mother that the comedy music finally stops and turns sad. Because this -- this is something that Fadel knows is real (at least he should know that Style's mom really did die when Style was a kid; that would've turned up in the background check), and it suddenly becomes clear to Fadel that this time Style is serious.

And oh, this shakes Fadel like nothing else has since Style said the words "I really do love you". Because Style gives this to him without any hesitation, with full vulnerability. Style is so openly, almost brutally honest in this moment. He's terrified and sad and hurting and it's horrifying because this sincerity forces Fadel to face the bitter truth that the journey his rage and his anger has set them on leads to only one conclusion.

Fadel simply cannot handle that right now. He's not ready to face the reality that his only real option, the only logical choice is that Fadel must kill Style. Because Style has now seen the full extent of his darkness; Style knows and has been hurt and shaken and terrified because Fadel has repeatedly threatened his life. Style's very existence is now a threat to not only Fadel and Bison's continued freedom but also his mother and Keen and anyone else that Fadel has ever been trained to put first.

Style lies next to him in bed, sobs wracking his body, and Fadel cannot let himself reach out because to do so is to acknowledge the truth of Style's words again. To do so is to open the door to trust, to admitting that he still cares about Style, that Style's tears still have the power to hurt him.

That Fadel is still so painfully, hopelessly, terribly in love with Style.

Because Fadel still remembers the last time he reached out and held Style in his arms whilst knowing that he was betrayed and that their love was a lie. Fadel remembers that even then, all he could do was cling even more tightly to Style and hope that the music and their shifting footsteps would be enough to hide his silent tears.

And just as his heart froze his finger on the trigger, so too does his fear hold him captive here. Because Fadel knows, he knows, he knows down to the marrow of his bones that if he allows himself to touch, then this time— this time, he won't be able to let Style go.

[rambyol]

Analysis - The Joker’s cards for Bruce and what they suggest:

We shouldn’t take Handwriting psychology literally as it’s very subjective but it’s definitely fascinating what we can learn or pull from a characters penmanship.

1. The Card from the Church

Between the two cards, this one is my favourite because it has the most personality in it.

This card shows up after the events at Wayne Tower where Joker and Harley unleash the Virus (Gas Bomb) and during Batman, Iman, and Tiffany’s search for the next Bomb.

Right off the bat, the penmanship on this card is messy. The letters are jagged, some misaligned, and some have varying degrees of pressure to them.

Writing with a lot of pressure can be a sign of attention seeking behaviour and Joker is trying to get Batman’s attention, obviously, but more notably the pressure on the letters mimic Johns/Jokers speech. John has a habit of subverting and exaggerating certain words in his speech. For instance when talking about Harley potentially setting off the bombs on the bridge (if you choose to trust John), John describes that hypothetical as ‘exciting’. It’s no surprise that writing can reflect our speech but as I mention below it’s a sign of being unfiltered.

It’s evident that Joker isn’t dwelling on presentation here, much like his fashion sense, there’s a disheveled appearance to his writing.

The scribble in the bottom left corner where you can see Joker was checking to see if the pen was still working is kind of endearing since this letter was intended for Batman and the scribble indicated a lack of filter, as is observed through Villain Jokers personality. V Joker is arguably the least filtered out of all 3 in my opinion and naturally that would reflect in every facet of him down to his writing. I mean even his attempt to scribble out the joke at the end seems half hearted, because we can still see it clearly.

In addition we’ve got the doodles of a heart and a mystery doodle which Batman has his thumb covering (I wonder what it is 0_o). Doodles display playfulness and of course that childish is pretty consistent to Johns character regardless if he goes down the Vigilante or Villain route.

Jokers handwriting here is relatively ‘bad’ but without going into detail (I want to wrap this one up) we can see that theres a struggle for consistency in his lettering and strokes, which mirrors his personality in way. John was/and Joker is very muddled at times because his motives are all over place and it’s hard to determine what he wants. Now sometimes I think people see inconsistency in characters as ‘bad writing’ but I see it as making them more believable/complex. So yes, ‘unstable’ writing comes as no surprise.

2. The Card from Joker’s Funhouse

Now this one’s shorter but it’s much more presentable. The lettering is mostly level and although there’s the mix between capital and lower case letters within the same word it’s overall more thought out. Even the doodles of the diamonds (?) on top of the ‘i’ are consistent. There’s a bluntness to this that otherwise isn’t seen in the first letter, the sentence are short and concise almost as if Joker has more control here. And he does, Bruce sees this letter after being shocked unconscious by Joker. He’s not in his Batsuit and he’s being led towards the games that Joker is going to force him to play before ‘dinner’.

I know this is written with a different pen, clearly a marker and that can effect penmanship, I know I write better with a certain type of pen (thicker ball points) but I like to think there’s more certainty in Joker at this point in the story about what he’s doing, since before this, John was a part of other peoples plans.

Also this one reads more intimately than the other for obvious reasons like with the use of the term ‘our secret’ and the domestic connotations of ‘dinner’ but that of course goes into the bigger scheme of this being presented as a dinner party. What I think is most important in this letter is how the heart ❤️ has no arrow in it. Unlike the first card which did;

According to Google:

A heart symbol pierced with an arrow, symbolizing romantic love (being lovestruck, or the pain of lovesickness) A typical depiction of the Sacred Heart (often shown with other attributes, e.g. surmounted by a cross, pierced by nails or swords, etc.)

Okay maybe the first one was more intimate?

But from what I could find about a plain heart and what it could potentially mean, the closest I could really find was ‘unromantic but sincere love’. And with what we know about Joker’s determination and certainty that he is the ‘villain’ of Batmans/Bruces dreams (a term could definitely be a stand in for other things) I think that certainty comes off here too. Bruce never questions or entertains the thought that Joker would have taken his suit off in front of others or had his henchmen do it, it’s clearly implied with how committed Joker is to not exposing Batmans identity that it was HIM who removed the batsuit off Bruce’s unconscious body. Point is, there’s this mutual/unspoken assuredness between them that this is in fact THEIR secret.

End!

Phew! Idk if this made sense or even coherent but I just found the letters really cool and wanted to talk about them. Let me know if I should go into more detail or pls add to this in the notes I’d love to hear your ideas!

[raevenlyreads]

Body/Mind/Spirit Sample Read

General Body, Mind, Spirit reading for [Sample]

For this read, I shuffle the Silhouettes deck, then search for each of the signifier cards, Body, Mind, and Spirit, which are unique to this deck. I read the cards above and below each signifier, as well as the “top” and “bottom” deck of the remaining cards. I read the signifiers relative locations to each other, as well as their spacing throughout the whole deck.

Deck Overview

The first signifier card, Mind, came fairly early into the deck, with Spirit and Body coming at fairly even intervals thereafter. This speaks to an open and balanced character. This deck has some interesting extras, and I felt inspired to utilize those as well. It contains two variant Strength cards, as since VIII Strength was the first face up card in your draw, I searched for the XI Strength as well to round out this reading. So your five points of interest for this reading are:

Top Deck - VIII Strength

Mind

Spirit

Body

Bottom Deck - XI Strength

Top Deck: VIII Strength, Outward facing

The top deck of this read is the outward facing, the top level of your person, what you show to the world. It can be likened to the rising sign of natal astrology. This is what you are projecting out, the parts of your personality you use to navigate interpersonal relationships and outward interactions.

Strength VIII

This Strength Variant is what I’ve always called Strength Realized, a mature and developed partnership with yourself. It symbolizes someone who is in touch with their inner well, who knows what lies within their core.

For the top deck, I read the first two cards down and how they reflect back on the topmost card. For this read, Strength VIII is informed by  the Queen of Swords (inverted) and the Three of Wands (inverted).

Queen of Swords (inverted)

The Queen of Swords is known for her sharp tongue, words used with scalpel-like precision to achieve exactly the effect she desires. Upright, she is often perceived as too harsh, cutting, uncaring of how the truth might hurt. Inverted, I read her as more poised, able to use her expert command of words to speak hard truths in strong but nurturing ways. She pulls no punches, but she couches her deliveries in ways that leave the recipient more receptive to actually hearing her message.

Three of Wands (inverted)

The Three of Wands is often called the Leap of Faith, walking blindly but trustingly into the unknown, building on those that have come before you. In this reading, inverted, I read it more as looking inward, trusting the work you’ve done on and with yourself. You may not always know what tomorrow will hold, but you have faith in the systems you have in place to navigate the storms and sun alike.

Synthesis

The Queen and the Three inform Strength VIII as facets of how your inner strength serves you. You are able to trust yourself to speak from a place of kind authority, and know that your inner strength will back you. You project someone who can be trusted, who is knowledgeable, and who stands as an example as one who has gone through it. No matter how you might feel internally, external you project calm confidence, and it serves you well.

Mind

Your thoughts, perceptions, and mental health. These are the voices in your head, the logic that gathers evidence and presents neat, tidy facts. These are the cards that reflect your self talk, your coping systems, and the parts of you that inform your conscious thought.

This card coming first of the three indicates that it’s often the first tool you reach for. Making lists, gathering your thoughts, using your words: these are your preferred ways to handle things. You like to have things in order, sorted and categorized. Whether you’re successful in this is another matter all together, but it’s your first go-to. You tend to tackle the mental aspect of a problem or goal first and sort out feelings and physical needs later.

[Sections continue as above with interpretations for each individual card and synthesis of how they all inform each other in this section of the spread]

Interested in a Body Mind Spirit Read of your own? Commission one here

[sheepwithspecs]

Perfect Candor

|| RDR2 || Rated T ||

Ao3 Link

(Sean x Karen; implied Mary-Beth x Kieran) "For a man who insisted that he loved her the way flowers loved the sun, he sure as hell didn’t seem too keen to share his troubles."Karen finds herself torn at the idea that Sean is keeping secrets from her, but can't quite put her finger on why. However, a forced confrontation may leave her with more truths than she bargained for. (Takes place during Chapter 3.) (2/2)

The sun hung low over Flat Iron Lake, painting the sky with the first broad orange strokes of dusk. The water rippled as fish leapt up to catch the insects flitting over its calm surface, sudden splashes in an otherwise peaceful evening. The camp was settling down for the night, with chores finished and supplies restocked. Those who remained wandered to and fro along the lake’s edge, searching for something to fill the idle hours before bedtime.

Jack tossed sticks into the water for Cain to chase, shrieking with delight as the dog splashed through the shallows. Abigail kept a close eye on him from the fallen log that served as a bench, fanning herself with a scrap of newspaper. Farther away, John leaned against a tree, a silent battle waging on his scarred face as he watched his son. Dutch and Hosea stood side by side on the old dock, pointing out facets of the shoreline and arguing—as always—about whether the best direction to head was east or west.

Bill, Arthur, Uncle, and Ms. Grimshaw were engrossed in a low stakes poker game, laughing about old times and accusing one another of hiding spare cards up their sleeves. Pearson played his accordion to an audience of none, the warbling notes accompanied by a chorus of tenor crickets and bass bullfrogs. Mary-Beth reclined in the soft grass, her soft voice almost inaudible as she read a passage from her favorite novel. Kieran sat on a crate at her side, his face set in an expression of intense concentration as he listened to the heroine’s plight. Tilly knitted a new shawl nearby, her infrequent glances suggesting that she’d appointed herself as a wary chaperone to the readers.

Karen wound her way between the wagons and makeshift furniture, searching every last nook and cranny for any sign of Sean. He’d been running laps in her thoughts all day, her mind stuck imagining all the ways a bounty hunter might torture a man without leaving too much of a mark. Finally, she’d decided that the only course of action would be to force him to tell her exactly what they had done to him. The truth would help to settle her frayed nerves; if nothing else, she might at least have a moment’s peace.

Trouble was, she couldn’t find the Irish bastard anywhere.

“Ain’t that just like a man,” she grumbled, ringlets bouncing around her face as she scanned the clearing. “Has anyone here seen Sean around?”

“Sean?” Arthur glanced up from his cards, jerking his chin towards the shadows of the forest. “Last I saw, he was headed that way… though I’m not sure why you’d want to find him, of all people.” He shook his head in clear annoyance, rapping his knuckles on the worn hide of the table to check.

“Aw, let her have him!” Uncle wheezed, leaning his weight onto his elbow as he tried to peek at Bill’s hand. “Keep him busy, so the rest of us can have some peace and quiet around here for a change!”

“That’s funny: I seem to recall you singing a different tune at his party.”

“I said I wanted some peace and quiet, Morgan! That ain’t the same as wantin’ the boy dead!”

“In any case… listen to me,” Arthur began seriously. “I’m not trying to get into your business, Karen, but if the two of you get up to that same mess you started in John’s tent, try to keep it down.” The corner of his mouth quirked in the ghost of what might have been a smile. “There’s boars in these woods, and I’d hate to see Sean gored because you had him squealing like a piglet.”  

Karen felt her cheeks begin to burn as the table roared with laughter. Had Arthur been close enough to overhear them, that night? Had he heard the way she’d…? No, it was better to stop thinking right then and there. She wasn’t sure she could handle that sort of mortification without a drink in her hand.

“Oh… shut up, all of you!” She stormed off towards the tree line, trying desperately to ignore the renewed chorus of laughter from the poker game.

The world dimmed to twilight as she passed into the forest, orange beams of sunlight illuminating the moldering carpet of fallen leaves. As she passed deeper into the trees, the sounds of camp became muffled; the leafy canopy rustled in the soft breeze, pines whispering as they swayed back and forth. The lake was a distant shimmer between the branches, water lapping at the crumbling embankment. All around her, small things scurried in the brush: squirrels, raccoons, any number of rodents. Every so, a short burst of sound alerted her to the presence of bounding deer just out of sight.

Karen walked slowly, keeping one eye on the lake and the other peeled for any sign of him. It didn’t help that he dressed in the colors of the forest, with hair the shade of a startled fox and coat the same mottled tones of tree bark. As usual, she heard him long before she saw him, his voice carrying above the back-and-forth of birdsong.

Following the sound, she climbed up a steep gully and found herself on the precipice of a natural overlook. Centuries of rain and wind had torn the soil from the trees, leaving behind a maze of exposed roots across several feet of craggy earth. Along the edge, mossy stones lined a creek that tumbled its way down to the lake in a series of waterfalls. The larger trees stretched up overhead, oaks and elms reaching out to shade the forest floor from the harsh sun.

Karen paused a moment to admire the scene, taken aback by its natural beauty. She could only imagine what it must look like in the daytime, with the creek sparkling in the sunlight and brightly colored birds flitting from one tree branch to the next.

She found Sean propped up against the side of a large boulder. A fallen log had wedged itself into the craggy landscape, laden with vines and hanging moss; the tangle of green had been draped across the back of the boulder to create a natural sun shade. It was clear that this was a favorite haunt of his, from the threadbare blanket in the corner to the empty bottles stacked in a neat pile against the rock face. She could imagine him stealing away at chore time, sneaking out of camp to hide in this little corner of the world he’d made for himself.

“Oh Mollie, oh Mollie…hmm mm… n’ my home—” Sean half-sang to himself, entirely oblivious to her presence as he carved away at an old piece of wood. Partially hidden behind a tree, Karen took a moment to watch him. While he didn’t have Arthur’s rugged looks, or Javier’s effortless charm, he was handsome in his own way; even she had to admit that much. The dappled light filtering through the vines caught the wiry stubble on his neck, dying it red-gold. Her hands itched with the urge to touch, to feel the scratchy tickle of bristles against her fingertips. Without the hat to hold it out of his eyes, his hair fell across his forehead in a way that practically begged her to card her fingers through it. Her heart beat a rapid tempo against her breastbone, feet carrying her towards him before she fully realized what she was doing.

“Sean?” His head jerked up at the sound of her voice, eyes widening as he searched the encroaching darkness. At the sight of her he visibly relaxed, flashing his signature grin.

“Ah, there she is. Can’t bear to spend an evening without me, eh?” he teased, patting the rock at his side. He seemed to think better of it, stretching out his legs and offering his lap with a lascivious expression that tried—and failed—to be subtle. “Here’s a seat ready for the takin’.”

“Sean, I—” Karen steeled her nerve, unsure of what reaction her request—no, her demand—was about to incite. There was a good chance he’d put up a fight; after all, he’d refused both Abigail and Ms. Grimshaw’s help. For all his natural cheeriness, he could be pigheaded, obstinate to a fault… then again, so could she. “I want you to show me what they’ve done to you.”

“I— eh?” Karen stopped within arm’s reach, looming over him with a frown. “I, erm… I’m not sure what you’re talkin’ about.”

“Ike’s bounty hunters. Show me what they did.” She’d learned long ago that when it came to Sean, the easiest way to trap him was to say at little as possible. While he was no Hosea, the man had slipperiness down to a science. The more a person said, the more ammunition it gave him to find a loophole to wiggle out of. He knew how to spin a yarn, to break into longwinded tangents so that it was just long enough to exhaust a saint’s patience. Then, while his unwilling listener was trying to find their own escape route, he’d bolt before they could remember that they’d asked him to do something.

“What does that have to do with anythin’?” He shifted uncomfortably, fidgeting under her hard stare. “It’s not like I’m—” His words fell apart with a startled gasp as she straddled him, pushing him back and cutting off any chance of escape. Sean fell back onto his elbows, jaw dropping as he stared up at her in complete shock. “Kar—I—you—what—?!”

“Be quiet.” Karen shoved the coat off his shoulders, letting it pool beneath him as she fought the buttons on his vest with single-minded determination. It was open in a flash, falling to either side of his narrow waist as she turned her attention to the dingy union suit that lay beneath. Too many goddamn buttons….

“H-Have you lost your bleedin’ head?!” he yelped, finally coming to his senses. His attempts to stop her were halfhearted at best, nervous fingers tangling with her own only to be batted away with growing impatience. “Don’t get me wrong, this is a dream come true, but now’s really not the time for— I mean, I do love a woman who knows exactly what she wants, but— it’s not a pretty sight—”

“Would you shut up?!” With a grunt, Karen yanked apart the unbuttoned fabric, exposing him from the waist up. Her breath caught in her throat, lips parting at the state of his body.

Sean was a wiry man at the best of times, with a body built for tight squeezes and fast getaways. But times had been lean, even before Blackwater, and the bounty hunters had clearly not wasted extra food on their prize. John’s tent had been dark, the night of his party, and neither of them had undressed more than was necessary for their hurried coupling. She hadn’t noticed the way his ribs stood out in stark relief, or the sharp curve of his hipbones jutting above the waistband of his jeans. His stomach was little more than a hollow dip, rising and falling with every uneven breath.

From collarbone to hips, every inch of pale skin was a mess of angry welts and half-healed bruises. Ghastly, Mary-Beth had claimed, and yet that wasn’t good enough of a word to describe the jaundiced yellows and gangrenous greens of weeks-old bruising. Some of them were clearly footprints, the overlapping outlines of pointed toes and blunt heels where he’d been kicked repeatedly. Others were duller, broader, made with fists or weapons. They’d burned him here, too; his chest, his stomach, even the soft skin beneath his arms held a constellation of circular marks. Some of them were deep enough to blister, white and peeling at the edges.

Karen lifted her eyes to meet his. Sean’s face was slack, cheeks bright red and something like shame in his gaze. Even now he tried to smile, hiding his thoughts under that bright expression. The gap in his front teeth felt like an accusation. Her stomach turned at the thought, full of disgust for herself and pity for the man currently pinned under her thighs. Each missing tooth, every last bruise and burn—they were unvoiced confessions, proof of his loyalty to those he considered family.

Proof that his captors had failed.

“They….” She reached out a faltering hand, wanting to touch him but unsure of how to do so without causing him pain. The freckles scattered across his chest called to her, as did the sparse trail of hair that vanished beneath the leather holster. “Those bastards beat you this badly?” It seemed a stupid question— or, rather, a pointless one.

“Y-Yeah.” His breath hitched as her knuckles grazed his sternum, throat bobbing nervously. “They did, at that.”

“And burned you…” A muted shiver ran through him as she turned her attention to his ribs, counting each one-by-one with a featherlight touch.

“It’s torture, darlin’.” It seemed he had found his voice once more, flinching away from her touch with all the twitchiness of a trapped squirrel. “They didn’t exactly prop me up in front of the hearth with a nice whiskey and the morning paper. A comfy man doesn’t go spillin’ his innermost secrets.”

“You didn’t go spilling yours, either,” she pointed out. “Even after… everything.”

“Ha! ‘Course not!” he preened. “I’m a MacGuire! I’ve a family name to uphold. It takes a lot more than a little prickin’ and pokin’ to make a MacGuire squeal.”   

“But why?” Sean stared at her a long moment.

“Why… what?”

“Why not end it?” Karen insisted. “Those men were going to kill you regardless, and you know that Arthur was going to kill them regardless, so why not save yourself the trouble of—”

“Now see here!” He sat up with a jolt, wincing through the pain until they were nose to nose. “I’m nothin’ if not loyal!” he scowled, offended. “All this was a walk in the park compared to the thought of them stormin’ the camp and… and….”

“And what?” Sean didn’t reply immediately. He seemed to be staring at her, through her, seeing the future that he’d prevented by managing silence for once in his life. “Well? Spit it out!”

“Doesn’t matter.” He cleared his throat, swallowing back whatever emotion had him in a chokehold. “Anyway, it’s self-preservation in the end, isn’t it? If Dutch though I was a rat, he’d have my arse strung up faster than a whole team of bounty hunters. And Mr. Matthews—” He broke off with a shudder. “I don’t want to think about what he might’ve done. I’m more afraid of him than I am Ike Skelding any day.”

“Even so….”

“I’m not asking you to kiss it better,” he teased gently, seeing her eyes fall back to the angry wounds. “Not unless you want to, that is.”

“Eugh. I’d rather pull a fish outta the lake and kiss that.”

“Ha! Suddenly superior again, I see!” he laughed. “Ah, I can’t help but love it. That’s what kept me going, in the end.”

“Huh?” Karen frowned. “What’re you talking about?”  

“Sometimes it was bad enough that I couldn’t help but think to myself, “Well, you sorry son of a bitch, this is it!”. But then I’d think about how I was keeping the lot o’ you safe, and I’d find it in me to hang on just a little longer. All the people that I care about in this shitty life: Dutch, Lenny, Arthur… and you.” He peered into her face, gauging her expression. “It… it was almost always you.”  

“Sean!” she scoffed, feeling the flush rise up her neck like the tide. Their eyes met once more, and she found that same indefinable emotion that had compelled her to drag him to John’s tent on the night of the party. In the daylight, in her soberness, it was… soft, and warm, and practically begging her to melt into it like candy on a summer’s evening.

It was… sweetness. Affection.

Infatuation.

So, so different from the toying smirk he flashed whenever he dragged her in for a kiss! So removed from the taunting curl of his lip when she knocked some sense into his thick skull! Different, yes… but no less real. That thought frightened her far more than the idea that he’d withstood torture for her sake.  

“But your feet— Tilly said—”

“Ah, what of it? They weren’t that pretty to begin with, I’ll admit.”

“And your teeth—”

“I ought to have thanked them, really. I dare anyone who calls themselves a van der Linde to have half as charmin’ a smile as mine.”

“Is everything a goddamn joke to you?!” She pushed him away, ignoring his yelp of pain as she stumbled to her feet. A hot burr lodged at the base of her throat, pricking her eyes with unshed tears. “Ugh! I can’t stand you, Sean MacGuire!” she snarled, rubbing her arms hard enough to chafe. “I don’t even know why I ever bothered feeling sorry for your miserable behind!”

“What’d I do now?” he laughed helplessly. “Tell me: am I supposed to go around all mopey, just because a couple of bastards tried to beat me to death? I’ve got all my limbs n’ my wits, don’t I?” he pointed out sensibly. “Some teeth and a few scars are a fine price to pay, all things considered.”

The fact that he wasn’t entirely wrong only served to frustrate her even more. He could have just as easily ended up like Jenny, or Davey and Mac. As far as he was concerned, he was simply joining the ranks of those who had earned their scars for the benefit of the gang. In their line of work, an unmarked face was almost synonymous with greenhorn. Theirs was a harsh, unforgiving lifestyle that had the habit of taking more than it gave in return. In his eyes, being at the mercy of bounty hunters was no different than being snatched up by a rival gang or caught unawares by local lawmen.

“Tch… whatever.” She shook her head. “I’m going back to camp.”

“Wait!” he called after her, trying to scramble to his feet. “You know, the night I came back—”

“What?!” Her patience had, unfortunately, ran out for one evening.

“The night I came back,” he tried again, fumbling with his union suit as he buttoned it back into place, “that… that was the happiest night of my life, honest.” He trailed after her, shrugging the coat back onto his shoulders. “Wait! Don’t you want to know why?” The burr blossomed into something truly painful, like stepping barefoot on a cactus leaf: the sharp sting of disbelief, followed almost instantly by a hot wash of shame. Karen turned on her heel, pointing an accusing finger in his face.

“Don’t you dare say a damn word about anything that happened in that tent!” she spat, feeling herself puff up like an angry cat. “It only happened because we were both too drunk—”

“Jesus alive, woman!” Sean backed off, hands raised defensively. “That wasn’t even what I was going to say! Give a man a moment to collect his thoughts!”

“You got thirty seconds before I push you off this cliff and finish what those bounty hunters started.”

“I only meant…” He chewed anxiously at his lower lip, a gesture very unlike the loud, boasting man she knew him to be. “I meant when we were by the campfire, you and me, and singing together. You sat on my lap, and I had my arms around you, and I… I could….”

“You could what?”

“I could….” He took a shaky breath. “Pretend.”

“Pretend?”

“Just… just for a bit. I could pretend that you were my girl, and no one else’s.”

“Your what?!” He blanched at the sight of her face, putting another two steps between them.

“I-I mean in the way that Abigail is John’s girl, y’know?” he stammered, the words spilling out so fast that she barely had time to pick them apart. “She’s his, and he’s hers, and… that sort of thing. Agh, fuck— I’m not saying it right, I know, but—”

“Abigail is John’s?” she repeated, infuriated. The anger bubbled up inside her. It was aimed partly at Sean, at his stupid naiveté, but mostly at the main in question. “And John is hers?” she added, her voice breaking on a high-pitched laugh. “In that case, someone ought to go and explain that to him!”

“N-Now, don’t get all up in arms—”

“Maybe you weren’t aware that John tried to pull me on his lap not two weeks ago!” she exploded, throwing up her hands. “Seeing as you’ve decided that’s what girls do to their beaus, what do you think that says about him? About me?!”

“But you rejected him, didn’t you?” he pointed out, blithe as ever. “John’s a handsome enough man, even with those new scars on his face. Not to mention that tent of his… so why’d you say no?”

“Well, because of—” Karen stopped short, lips pressed tightly together. “Because of Abigail.”

“There, see?” Sean  judged it safe to close the distance between them, that damned cavalier smile back on his face. “John is hers, even if she wouldn’t claim him to save her life. As for myself… well, I’d be yours, if only you’d have me.” He reached for her hand, holding it loosely in his own. “Karen.”

Her heart gave a little thrill at the way her name sounded on his tongue, the same way it had ever since the first time he’d said it. Ka-ren, that soft lilt, the mischievous glint in his eye, as though her name was a secret the two of them shared.

Karen glared up at him, fighting the urge to pout. The last rays of sunlight shone full on his face, highlighting every last freckle, all the places she secretly wished she could kiss without his knowing. It wasn’t that she didn’t like him… she liked him too much for her own good. But she also didn’t feel like dealing with his ego, should he find out just how much she cared. There was that pitying, cloyingly sweet look again, his head falling to the side as he graced her with a set of beaten puppy-dog eyes that would have better fit Mary-Beth’s little O’Driscoll.

“I love you,” Sean insisted softly, drawing her close. He reached out, calloused hands caressing the mole on her face before trailing down her neck. Her heart raced in answer, pulse thrumming in her ears. This, too, was just another part of the game they played. Attack and retreat, maneuver and counter maneuver, just like the chess Dutch always spoke of. “I’m head over heels for you.”

“You always say that.”

“I always mean it.”

“You do not. You think I’m superior.”

“And you think I’m a clown.” His lips brushed her cheekbone in a fleeting kiss, light enough that he could argue it was accidental, and she realized just how dangerously close she was to being his girl after all. “Doesn’t matter none to me, though. I’m still in love with you, Karen Jones.”

Water on a cookfire.

“Don’t say that.” She pulled away, crossing her arms over her chest.

“What? What’d I do?”

“Just don’t say it like that!” He could love her all he wanted, love her until the end of time, but to be in love… that was something else entirely. This wasn’t one of Mary-Beth’s romances, where the swooning maiden is spirited off to a happily-ever-after on the back of a white stallion. Sean was no knight. He was no brooding gentleman with a vast fortune, or a wealthy rake stealing the hearts of young debutantes. He was an outlaw and a scoundrel, through and through. He was a shooting star, destined to burn brightly before the inevitable.

Women like her, who dared to love men like him, always had their hearts broken in the end. That was simply the way of things.

“But—” His face crumpled, and for a moment he looked as though it would have hurt less to punch him in the gut.

“C’mon,” she interrupted, unwilling—unable—to stomach any sort of reply. “Let’s head back before they send out a search party. Any longer, and they’ll start to think we’ve been nabbed by one of these feud-crazed families.” Karen set off without another word, picking her way back down the incline and heading in the direction she’d come.

Sean followed behind her at his usual pace, loping right on her heels and keeping quiet for a change. She forced herself to keep her eyes on the trail, not trusting her heart to be strong should she turn and find him anything less than cheerful. He overtook her as they neared the tree line, bursting into camp and practically tackling Lenny with one his loudest devil-may-care laughs.

“The night’s young, my friend!” he crowed, flinging an arm around the startled man’s neck and half-dragging, half-leading him towards the provisions wagon. “There’s whiskey to be had, and I’m dying of thirst!” Had she not seen it with her own eyes, she would have never guessed that he’d been so crestfallen only moments before.

Was it that easy to shrug aside his own feelings, or… was he that good at hiding them?

Karen turned towards the lean-to she shared with the other girls, feeling as though the world itself rested on her bent shoulders. The burr had festered into something that wasn’t quite anger, but wasn’t quite not, either. She found Mary-Beth seated on her bedroll, scribbling away in that journal of hers as though her life depended on it. The young woman glanced up at the sound of her approach, her smile fading once she caught sight of her friend.

“Karen! What on earth is the matter!?”

“Sean—” She paused, surprised to hear tears in her voice. “Sean said he loved me.” She began to undress for bed, her chest hot and tight.

“Well, that…” Mary-Beth sat the journal down, chewing the inside of her cheek. “What’s that got to do with anything?” she finally asked. “That’s nothing to be upset over. He says it at least twice a day, if not more.”

“I know,” Karen agreed dully, flopping face-down on her own bedroll. She turned so that her back was to the camp, drawing her knees up to her chest with a watery sigh.

“It’s just… this time, I think he actually meant it.”

[the-writing-moon]

so i work in a well-known library, right, as a part-timer, and it's been great working with the books, they're real friendly and everything. but this is a very exclusive library, right, you have to send in an application and maybe get interviewed to get in because we're dealing with really old archival material here; i've had to dust crumbled paper off of desks and some of the spines of these hundreds-of-years-old books have been replaced with electric tape with their titles rewritten with wite-out from how much the spines have fallen out. i look up and see dead white men glaring down at me from murals and paintings and busts from the ceiling, probably aghast and wondering how a fucking little island girl is handing their precious books and poking at their dutch-painted glass windows with her grimy brown fingers. this is just set-dressing, so you really know where i'm coming from.

anyways, you know those memes that go around writing communities? doesn't matter if you write fics or manuscripts, we've all seen them, liked them, reblogged them.

"writing a slash fic instead of writing i've been googling what jewelry young german women wore in the 1700s"

"i'm pretty sure i'm on the fbi and interpol hitlists because of my search history"

"story prompt: overly helpful serial killer sweetheart x clueless crime fiction writer"

"when you don't know long division but you can talk about the taxation laws in victorian england because you needed to find out how taxes work to make your story believable"

they're memes that make you chuckle, guffaw, and nod because they're relatable! everyone hates the idea of being corrected by a random poindexter who can call you out on your bullshit on victorian tax laws, you uncultured fool, or who happens to know how blood sprays look if you shoot a person a certain way, you gormless coward, not because they were shooting the gun but they were part of the forensics team, pinky promise, i wasn't there on the 15th of november. and it's a bit absurd. like, who exactly knows - or cares - about victorian tax laws? does it really matter to write about reality in all its facets into fiction? majority of your readers probably aren't vampires or other extant immortals so does it really matter if you don't hold history up as accurately as possible in your 30k friends-to-enemies-to-lovers dark academia yuri slashfic? does historical accuracy matter when you're writing about samurais in the heian period in modern english with modern sensibilities? who would even know what stuff was really like back then? some things aren't googlable, and you can't always trust google anyways.

i don't know the answer to all these questions. but i know the answer to one.

so, back to the library.

one day, i'm shelving history books one after the other, listening to an audiobook from a public library using a library card of which i faked my address for me to use. reparations. and way more ethical than piracy in my eyes. support authors, patronize libraries, and all that. when i shelve books, i like to wonder about who reads them and why. what research they're doing. what they're doing here. whether they know how lucky they are. i envy this library where i work. i envy the people who live in this town. i envy the readers. they have all of this because someone recognized the value of hoarding, the value of taking and tabulating and preserving. one could argue it's the colonial way. but enough of that, i'm shelving books, books that i sometimes wonder at, because i never could have imagined so many books on so many topics, and sometimes they are topics that are so trivial and-

and i'm holding, in my hands, a book about the jewelry young german women wore in the 1700s.

being in a university town, you come to understand that academics have their pet projects; the drive to understand the minutiae of their field, of humanity, of nature. think of a topic and there's probably a dissertation for that. you also understand there is a lot of publishing politics, that researchers' papers are paywalled behind exorbitant fees for which they receive no royalties from. you also understand that academia can also be elitist, even when the people inside it call for open access.

to other people, i'm sure i sound incoherent and raving. but i'm sure that there are people out there who understood why i took several moments staring at this book, recalling all those fucking memes about historical accuracy, of people joking that they're looking for things even the internet has no answer for. because the answers do exist. someone's written about them. someone took the time to look at and tabulate and write about german jewelry. someone else, tax laws. some other person, blood sprays, either through study or applied experimentation. the knowledge is out there. they just aren't available to you.

[financeattips]

Millennials Money Tips for Personal Finance

It is very difficult for millennials to manage their own finances today as the world of competition requiring one to workout harder has changed in a matter of months. From student loan debt to increasing living costs, this generation has faced financial struggles that are all its own. Nevertheless, there are strategies out there that can work for the millennial in search of sustainable financial security or even just a better bottom line. Below are a few of the basic personal finance tips for millennials.

1. Set Clear Financial Goals

The first step in any financial plan is establishing specific and attainable goals. Whether it's to buy a home, pay off your student loans, or save for retirement — knowing what you're working towards will keep you more engaged and inspired. Divide your goals into short-term (one to two years), medium-term (three to five years) and long-(five or more). This approach helps you to prioritize and use your resources accordingly.

2. Create and Stick to a Budget

The Facet of Financial Management: Budgeting Track your income and expenses: The very first step is to track how much you are earning, after that what things consume your bills? Budgeting tools; you may use an app to categorize what you spend on and where they can be reduced. If possible, adhere to the 50/30/20 rule — apportion half of your funds towards needs and twenty percent for saving or repaying debt.

3. Build an Emergency Fund                                                                         

It is only a rainy day fund to act as an emergency safety net in case life decides not to follow your plan. The hopefully three to six months of absolute must-have sequestered in a separate, liquid account. It can help you with the cost of surprising expenses–whether they be medical bills or it lets you maintain your financial schedule, rather than having a huge hole in it due to car repairs.

4. Manage Debt Wisely

For many millennials, student loan debt can be a large financial weight. Start your payoff journey with high-interest debt — credit card balances are a solid place to begin. Refinance or consolidate student loans at a lower interest rate. Establish and Maintain a HISTORY of consistent on-time payments to improve your credit score, reducing overall debt.

5. Invest for the Future

If you want to create wealth then investment is the most important thing for it. If your employer offers a matching 401(k) plan, that is what you should start with. Demand more investment options like IRAs, Stocks and Mutual Funds. Simply Diversify A toasted way to diversification! The point is that, your money should earning with compounding.

6. Enhance Financial Literacy

One can be really good at making informed decision which is backed by financial literacy. Use online sources, books and courses to learn more about personal finance. Understanding concepts such as interest rates, inflation and investment options can help you make more informed financial decisions.

7. Plan for Retirement

Architecting retirement: It is never too early to plan for retirement. Save a minimum of 15% of your income toward retirement. Make use of Roth IRAs and traditional IRA tax-advantaged accounts. You may want to talk with a financial advisor who can help you put together your own retirement plan based on what you hope for in retirement and how much risk you are willing to take.

8. Protect Your Assets

But while it may not be the sexiest asset class around, insurance is integral to any complete financial plan. Make sure of health, auto and and home insurance coverage. Good idea: If you have dependents, consider life insurance. Disability insurance provides you income in the event of an illness or injury.

9. Check Your Credit Score

Great credit can unlock lower-interest rates and financial possibilities. Review your credit report on a regular basis for inaccuracies and work towards building up the score. By paying your bills on time, keeping credit card balances low and only opening new accounts when you need them (and therefore improved scores so long as other key factors don't weigh in ).

10. Seek Professional Advice

If you are unsure of where to begin or need help, then speak with a financial advisor. They can give you advice and even consult with you to build a financial plan as well. Also look for a good pedigree — Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

With these personal finance tips, a millennial can move forward in the financial journey feeling more secure for their future. Earning money is only part of the process… its mastering discipline, consistency and continuous learning that leads to long-term financial success.

[itchywitchybitchy2911]

Hello Friends!

It's been a while, but I've got some news! This past week I've been dog-sitting for some friends of mine and it's been a fantastic opportunity for me to catch up on some rest, relaxation, (pup snuggles!) And learning more about my craft/spirituality.

I've been noticing many synchronicities lately, particularly in numbers and symbols. This month I've been followed around by the numbers 222 and 444. I've seen them on clocks, license plates, timestamps on videos/happening to pause songs at those times, what have you, without actively searching for them. 222 usually pops up when I start to have doubts about my faith/witchcraft journey. 444 pops up most when I'm thinking about my bf/driving to meet him/listening to music that reminds me of him. It's all super weird and super cool!

Other synchronicities I've noticed are signs from the Lady Aphrodite. I've been drawn to the color pink lately, which is new to me (goth kids ftw). Crabapple blossoms are blooming and they're all in shades of pink, magenta and white. I keep finding white feathers floating around me outside and seeing white birds (mostly pigeons, which is odd in itself because there haven't been any flocks living in my neighborhood in recent years). I've also felt this feminine presence when I pray. It is warm, inviting, and also feels very...I dunno how to put it...excitable(?). It doesn't feel like the God I'm used to praying to (Christian God to be specific) because the energy is so playful and light. It's very comforting and I find it to be a nice change of pace from the Christian guilt I'm used to.

And so, to make a long story even longer, I've been leaning into Aphrodite devotion and studying up on the facets of the Goddess/Goddess energy.

Below is a recipe for a strawberry daiquiri I made in her honor, as well as some book marks I've whipped up for the reading I've been doing. And for more fun, I'm making my own tarot deck! So far I've finished the court on pentacles. It's taken me 5 days 💀 ☠️

Other things to add, if you're feeling ✨️ fancy ✨️: rosewater? Grenadine? Idk I'm not that creative when it comes to bartending LMAO

This is a great book from 2005. At the time of publication, Sylvan was a Wiccan author based in Austin, Texas. She writes about the Mind/Body divide in the US American society and how that effects women and their relationships to their bodies. While I find it a decent read so far, it does have some pitfalls. For one, you do need at least some understanding of the spiritual aspect of Wicca. While I myself do not identify as Wiccan, I do appreciate the thoughts and feelings brought forward. Another is that the book was "exclusively for women," because that is what the author states she can write about most authentically from her own experience as a Cis, AFAB person. I definitely think everyone should give it a read, however, regardless of gender orientation/gender assigned at birth.

This next book has been a nice stepping stone for me as a new witch. It has lots of helpful tips and basic ideas as to what magic is and how to incorporate it into your faith and day-to-day life. I find it to be a bit Euro-centric, however, so please keep that in mind.

Both books are wonderful resources, but I do reccomend further reading on all subjects that interest you. Another point goes to Sylvan for this; she lists at least 10 multimedia resources to check out at the end of each chapter.

My bookmarks, dedicated to Lady Aphrodite <3

And finally, my tarot cards! I'm so excited to work on the next court!

Overall, it's been a busy couple of weeks for this witch. And if you've made it to the end of this posting I do have a favor to ask! As a new witch, it's quite hard to find reliable AND engaging resources on the craft that aren't so...popculture-y, shall we say. Do you have any recommendations? Please DM me if so! I'm also looking at you, fellow followers of Aphrodite. Do you have any resources that you'd like to share about this Goddess? I want to learn all I can!

Thank you all so much for reading <3 <3 <3 Until next time, take care and Keep Smiling!!!!

[alphaplusguam]

Guam Dine Reward: Savor Island Flavors and Earn Points with Alpha Plus

Dining in Guam is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Chamorro culture, support local businesses, and rack up valuable Guam Points at the same time. With Alpha Plus, the official Guam App for loyalty rewards, every bite you take can bring you closer to freebies, discounts, and VIP experiences. Discover how Guam Dine Reward works, why locals love it, and how you can get the most out of your next island feast.

What Is Guam Dine Reward?

Guam Dine Reward is a specialized program within the Alpha Plus platform designed to reward you for dining at participating restaurants across Guam. Each time you enjoy a meal, you earn Guam Rewards—loyalty points that accumulate in your digital wallet on the Guam Mobile App. Whether you’re craving kelaguen, barbecue, or sushi, your appetite pays off in rewards.

How to Earn Reward Guam When You Dine

Download the Guam App Get the Guam Mobile App on iOS or Android and sign up in seconds.

Locate Dine Reward Partners Use the in-app map or search to find local eateries offering Guam Dine Reward.

Scan & Earn Guam Points After your meal, simply scan the restaurant’s QR code or show your digital card to earn points instantly.

Track Your Progress View your updated Guam Points balance in real time and watch your rewards grow.

With a few taps, you’re actively supporting local chefs and small businesses while stacking up points for your next culinary adventure.

From Guam Shop Rewards to Dine Rewards

Alpha Plus isn’t just for foodies. You can also collect Guam Shop Rewards when you make purchases at partner retailers island-wide. Combine your dining and shopping activities to accelerate your point totals, and unlock higher-tier perks faster. Your everyday spending—whether on clothes, gadgets, or a night out—becomes a strategic way to earn reward Guam in every category.

Redeem Points for Memorable Experiences

Once you’ve built up a healthy Guam Points balance, it’s redemption time. With Guam Redeem Points, you can:

Score meal discounts at top restaurants

Grab free appetizers or desserts

Access exclusive chef-led tasting events

Upgrade to premium seating or private dining

Redemption is seamless—just choose your reward in the app, present the digital voucher at checkout, and enjoy your savings.

Why Locals Choose Guam Dine Reward

Support Local Economy: Every point you earn keeps dollars within the island community.

Discover New Favorites: The curated list of Guam Dine Reward partners helps you explore hidden gems.

Seamless Experience: The user-friendly Guam App dashboard shows rewards, nearby partners, and special promotions in one place.

Flexible Rewards: Points apply toward both dining and retail—so you never lose value, even if your next meal’s postponed.

Beyond Dining: Real Estate Perks with Guam Property Partners

Did you know Alpha Plus also collaborates with select Guam Property agencies? When you lease, buy, or refer clients through these partners, you can earn bonus Guam Points—making real estate transactions as rewarding as your dinner outings. It’s just another way Alpha Plus integrates into every facet of life on Guam.

Getting Started Is Easy

Download: Install the Guam Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play.

Register: Sign up with email or social login.

Explore: Browse dining, shopping, and property partners.

Dine & Earn: Scan, pay, and collect Guam Points.

Redeem: Turn points into rewards at your favorite locales.

Conclusion: Elevate Every Meal with Guam Dine Reward

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or planning a gourmet night out, Guam Dine Reward transforms every dining experience into a chance to earn. With the combined power of Guam Rewards, Guam Shop Rewards, and partnerships spanning restaurants to Guam Property, Alpha Plus is your one-stop loyalty solution.

Ready to turn your next meal into a rewarding adventure? Download the Guam App today at AlphaPlusGuam.com and start savoring flavors—and points—across the island.

[bodhtarotusa]

Discover Your Destiny: Leading Tarot and Astrologers in the United States

Are you seeking direction in your development, job, love, or life? Tarot and astrological readings provide a deep understanding of your beyond, gift, and destiny. You've come to the precise spot if you're searching out a pleasing astrologer in New Jersey, California, or New York. These professionals provide humans with routes and clarity that allow them to optimistically face life's uncertainties.

The Top American Astrologers.

It can change your life to find the correct astrologer. Discovering hidden facets of your personality and potential destiny is possible with the assistance of a qualified Florida astrologer. For accurate astrological advice, residents of the Big Apple can speak with an astrologer in New York, USA. TheBest Astrologer in California can offer profound insights based on your particular birth chart if you live on the West Coast. For people in the South, knowledgeable astrologers in Texas can use Western or Vedic astrology to help you realize your full potential in life.

Regression Therapy: Revealing Your Past

Past life regression therapy helps individuals understand unresolved issues from their past lives, affecting them now. New York offers a comprehensive soul exploration through Past Life Regression Therapy in New York, while Houston, Texas, uses hypnosis and spiritual methods to help clients find connections from their past lives. California offers karmic imbalance healing sessions through Past Life Regression in California, while South Florida offers inner serenity and understanding through Past Life Regression Therapy in South Florida.

Tarot Reading: A Way to the Future

Tarot card readings offer intuitive counsel and spiritual insights. Whether you live in Texas or elsewhere, a Tarot Card Reader in Austin Texas can help you answer important questions about your future. New Jersey residents may get accurate and insightful readings from the Best Tarot Reading Specialists in New Jersey. If you prefer digital sessions, an Online Tarot Reading Expert in New Jersey can provide easy and accurate readings from the comfort of your own home. In the heart of the city, a Tarot Card Reader in New York can help you discover what is ahead.

Finding the Best Tarot Reader in Your State

For individuals on the West Coast, California Tarot Reading services offer expert advice on love, career, and personal development. A qualified Tarot Reader in California can provide counsel based on intuitive card interpretations. If you are seeking out religious guidance in the Sunshine State, Tarot Reading in Florida can answer your most urgent questions. Many expert Tarot Card Readers in California provide in-person and online consultations, making them reachable to all and sundry.

Where Can I Find the Best Astrologers and Tarot Readers

BodhTarot is a reliable site for individuals seeking high-quality astrology and tarot readings. BodhTarot's team of qualified specialists gives accurate and personalized readings to clients around the United States. Whether you want advice on love, activity, fitness, or spiritual improvement, the experts at BodhTarot allow you to navigate your lifestyles with confidence and readability.

Conclusion

Astrology and tarot readings have long been famous techniques of self-discovery and steerage. Whether you are searching for the Best Astrologer in New York, a skilled Astrologer in California, or a professional Tarot Card Reader in Austin, Texas, there can be a consultant to fit your needs. Exploring Past Life Regression Therapy in New York or attempting to find the Best Tarot Reading Specialists in New Jersey may also provide perception and healing. Visit BodhTarot today to connect with top astrology and tarot specialists in the United States and begin your road to self-awareness and enlightenment

[eikooowie]

Ah, introducing a Buddyfighter from your fan-made Crystal World! Emiko Coraline... the name itself has a certain crystalline resonance. Let's flesh out this character and their connection to the shimmering realm.

Emiko Coraline: The Crystalline Weaver

Here's a concept for your Crystal World user:

* Appearance: Emiko might have an ethereal beauty, perhaps with hair that seems to catch the light like spun glass, or eyes that shimmer with subtle, shifting colors. Their clothing could incorporate crystalline patterns or be made of materials that appear almost translucent. They might wear delicate, crystal-like accessories.

* Personality: Given the nature of the Crystal World, Emiko could be thoughtful and introspective, perhaps possessing a calm and focused demeanor. They might have a deep understanding of the properties and energies of crystals, almost as if they can communicate with them. Alternatively, they could be more energetic and dynamic, harnessing the raw power of the crystals in a more forceful way.

* Connection to the Crystal World:

* Native of the World: Emiko could be a natural inhabitant of your Crystal World, deeply connected to its unique environment and its inhabitants.

* Human Traveler: Perhaps Emiko is a human who discovered a portal to the Crystal World and formed a strong bond with its beings. They might be fascinated by its beauty and power.

* Chosen One: Maybe Emiko has a special destiny intertwined with the fate of the Crystal World, possessing a unique ability to resonate with its core energies.

* Fighting Style: Emiko's Buddyfighting style would likely reflect the themes and mechanics of your Crystal World.

* If your world focuses on light manipulation, Emiko might use swift, dazzling attacks and defensive maneuvers that play with refraction and reflection.

* If resonance and vibration are key, Emiko's strategy could involve "tuning" their monsters to unleash powerful harmonic effects.

* A focus on growth and evolution could see Emiko nurturing their crystal monsters, allowing them to transform and gain new abilities over the course of a fight.

* If hardness and durability are central, Emiko's deck might be a resilient force, weathering attacks while slowly building up an unbreakable defense.

* With a theme of purity and focus, Emiko might excel in maintaining a clean field, with their monsters gaining strength in the absence of distractions.

Potential Buddy Monster:

To complement Emiko, her Buddy Monster would be a key representation of the Crystal World. Here are a few ideas:

* Luminaris, the Crystalline Dragon: A majestic dragon whose scales are formed from shimmering crystals, capable of manipulating light and energy.

* Prismheart, the Gemstone Guardian: A being formed from a cluster of rare gems, possessing incredible defensive capabilities and the ability to unleash focused energy beams.

* Resonance Core, the Harmonic Being: An abstract entity that exists as a pulsating crystal, able to generate powerful vibrations and manipulate sound waves.

* Facet, the Evolving Crystal Beast: A creature whose body is constantly shifting and growing, gaining new abilities as the fight progresses.

Backstory Ideas:

* Emiko might be on a quest to protect a sacred crystal within her world from outside forces.

* She could be searching for a legendary crystal with immense power.

* Perhaps her Buddy Monster has a unique connection to the history or the very fabric of the Crystal World.

Tell me more about your vision for the Crystal World! Knowing its core concepts and mechanics will help us further refine Emiko Coraline and her role within it. What kind of personality do you envision for her? What might be her signature card or fighting style? Let's crystallize her character!

[srikrishnadiamonds]

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Platinum Collection – Modern and minimal designs for everyday elegance.

Wedding Jewellery – Bridal sets that turn dreams into reality.

Whether you are celebrating a milestone, attending a wedding, or simply treating yourself, our jewellery shop in Bangalore offers unmatched designs that resonate with sophistication and sentiment.

A Trusted Jewellery Shop Near Me with Uncompromising Quality

What makes Sri Krishna Diamonds and Jewellery the most reliable jewellery shop near you? It’s our commitment to purity, precision, and perfection. Each ornament undergoes strict quality control to ensure:

Certified Gemstones & Diamonds

BIS Hallmarked Gold

Transparent Pricing

On-Request Customization

When you search for a jewellery shop near me, you expect excellence—and we deliver it through every facet of our service. Our in-house experts assist you at every step, ensuring a personalized and delightful shopping experience.

Why Choose Sri Krishna Diamonds and Jewellery in Bangalore?

Legacy of Trust

We’ve built our name over the years as one of the most trusted jewellery shops in Bangalore. Customers return generation after generation because of our:

Fair practices

Ethical sourcing

Transparent billing

Customer-centric policies

In-House Artisans and Designers

Our skilled artisans bring your ideas to life. From antique bridal sets to bespoke solitaire rings, we offer custom designs to reflect your personality and preferences. When searching for a jewellery store near me, you deserve access to exclusive craftsmanship, and that’s what we promise.

Location Convenience

Conveniently located in the heart of the city, our jewellery store in Bangalore is easily accessible. Whether you reside in Indiranagar, Jayanagar, Whitefield, or Koramangala, our store is just a short drive away.

Jewellery Store in Bangalore with a Vision of Elegance

We envision more than just selling jewellery. Our aim is to be a jewellery store in Bangalore where memories are crafted, and traditions are preserved. When you walk into our showroom, you're greeted with:

A luxurious yet comfortable ambiance

Friendly staff and expert guidance

A vast inventory for every budget and occasion

Festive discounts and seasonal offers

Jewellery Shopping Near You, Elevated with Sri Krishna

When people look up "jewellery shop near me" or "jewellery store near me", they seek a blend of convenience, style, and reliability. That’s exactly what we offer at Sri Krishna Diamonds and Jewellery. Our services include:

Jewellery Cleaning & Polishing

Old Gold Exchange

EMI Facility for Jewellery Purchases

Online Video Consultations

Gift Cards and Vouchers

With our customer-first approach, we've redefined what a jewellery shop in Bangalore should be like. Whether you are a connoisseur of fine gems or a first-time buyer, you will find your experience to be smooth, insightful, and memorable.

Celebrate Life’s Moments with Our Timeless Collections

Each moment deserves to be celebrated with grace and grandeur. At our jewellery store in Bangalore, we help you mark special occasions such as:

Weddings & Engagements

Anniversaries

Festivals & Religious Ceremonies

Birthdays & Personal Milestones

From intricately handcrafted bangles to elegant mangalsutras and striking solitaire rings, our diverse range caters to every age group and every style.

Explore Our Online Jewellery Experience

Even if you cannot visit us in person, we bring the store to your home. Our website allows you to:

Browse collections by category, material, and price

Book appointments for virtual shopping

Access live offers and discounts

Chat with our jewellery consultants in real-time

This makes us not just the best jewellery store near me, but also a preferred jewellery shop online with a physical showroom presence for authenticity and service assurance.

Customer Testimonials

“Sri Krishna Diamonds and Jewellery is my go-to jewellery store in Bangalore. From wedding sets to everyday pieces, their variety and quality are unmatched.”

“Searching for a jewellery shop near me brought me here, and I’m glad it did! Polite staff, amazing designs, and trustworthy quality.”

“Absolutely loved the platinum couple bands we picked. Highly recommend Sri Krishna to anyone looking for a premium jewellery shop in Bangalore.”

Visit Us Today – The Best Jewellery Shop in Bangalore is Just Around the Corner

Come and experience the grandeur at Sri Krishna Diamonds and Jewellery – where timeless beauty meets impeccable quality. Whether you're nearby or planning a trip to the city, a visit to our jewellery store in Bangalore is worth your time.

Let your story sparkle with us.

[angelshealu]

Find Your Destiny with a Personalized Tarot Reading

A Tarot Card reading near me could be the secret to releasing the direction you require whether your search for solutions for problems in life or clarity about your path. From personal relationships to job decisions and even your spiritual path, tarot readings have been used for millennia to provide insights into many facets of life. Using Tarot cards as a tool will help you get strong direction to negotiate the uncertainty of life and find your actual destiny.

What is Tarot Card Reading?

An old technique called tarot card reading reveals insights on a person's life, feelings, and future by means of a deck of Tarot cards. Every card has special meaning and symbolism; together, they provide a comprehensive picture of the energies in use in your life. Tarot readings provide direction and clarity to enable you to make wise decisions in line with your actual road map, not about forecasting a set future. Our individualized Tarot Card reading near-by service at Angels Heal U is designed to meet your particular needs and inquiries. Whether you're looking for direction on your spiritual path or must make a tough decision, our knowledgeable readers will provide you the clarity and insight you need to forward boldly.

Why Choose Tarot Card Reading?

Getting Guidance for with insight into your Past, Present, Future life, Current Problems, Root cause of Problems /Circumstances and gives direction & solutions for the future, so offering you answers, clarity, and healing

Gain Clarity and Insight

A Tarot reading offers one of the most potent advantages—that of clarity. Tarot cards can help clarify the best line of action if you're not sure what direction your life should be taken. A Tarot reading can help you see things from a different angle by offering insights into your past, present, and future, so enabling wise rather than confused decisions. Empowerment and Confidence By illuminating secret influences and guiding your understanding of the energies surrounding you, a Tarot reading can empower you. Knowing what is influencing your life will help you to trust your instincts, get the confidence to make wise decisions and act without hesitation. It's about exposing the most likely results depending on your present course, not about forecasting a fixed future.

A Deeper Understanding of Yourself

Additionally quite helpful for self-discovery are tarot readings. They can reveal patterns or ideas that might be holding you back by means of insights into your subconscious mind. Finding these hidden influences will help you to clear stress and concerns from your subconscious. Complementing your Tarot reading, techniques including Clinical Hypnosis, EFT tapping, HYPNOSIS, and Reiki help you release emotional blockages and reach inner peace. Guidance in Relationships and Career

Tarot readings can provide insightful analysis of your situation whether your problems are personal or related to your work. They offer guidance on how to negotiate difficult circumstances and assist you to grasp the dynamics at work. Regarding your relationships, career, and personal development, this advice can enable you make better decisions.

The Benefits of Personalized Tarot Readings at Angels Heal U

At Angels Heal U, we think Tarot has transforming insights power. Our team of knowledgeable Tarot readers is committed to guiding you toward your destiny and toward a better knowledge of the reason of life. Whether your challenges are personal, emotional, or professional, our Tarot Card reading near-by service provides a customized approach to fulfill your particular needs. Together with complementary therapies like EFT tapping and Reiki, our Tarot readings help clear both the conscious and subconscious blocks in your life, so enabling you to make confident decisions in line with your actual road map. We lead you toward peace and clarity by helping the subconscious mind to shed stress and concerns. The Experts Behind Your Journey

Our Tarot readings at Angels Heal U are guided by very talented and intuitive experts trained to give you the direction and encouragement you require. Our Experienced team of Angels Heal U, under guidance of Dr Amit Sabharwall (PhD) and Dr Jasmeet Kaur (PhD), is here to support you on your road of self-discovery and healing. Discover the transforming possibilities of Tarot Card reading close by with AngelsHeal U. We can open the road towards your actual fate together.

Conclusion

Though life can seem uncertain, with the correct direction you can negotiate the obstacles and find the chances ahead. Tarot card reading provides insightful analysis of your path, guides you toward better decisions, helps you to better understand yourself, and gives you confidence to forward. Visit Angels Heal U or contact for online healing sessionsright now for Tarot Card Reading!

[ibertechsolutions]

The 10 Essential Features That Will Make Your E-commerce Site Thrive

In today's competitive online marketplace, a successful e-commerce site needs more than just a catalog of products. It requires a seamless user experience, robust functionality, and features that drive conversions. This article explores the top 10 features that are absolutely essential for any e-commerce site to succeed.

1. Mobile-First Design & Responsiveness:

Why: With the majority of online shopping happening on mobile devices, a mobile-first approach is non-negotiable. Your site must adapt flawlessly to various screen sizes, ensuring a consistent and user-friendly experience on all devices.

How: Employ responsive design techniques, prioritize fast loading times on mobile, and optimize touch interactions.

2. High-Quality Product Images & Videos:

Why: Online shoppers can't physically touch products, so visuals are crucial. High-resolution images, 360-degree views, and product videos provide a realistic representation of your offerings.

How: Invest in professional product photography, use consistent lighting, and offer zoom functionality.

3. Intuitive Navigation & Search Functionality:

Why: Users should easily find products they're looking for. Clear categories, logical menus, and a powerful search bar with filters are essential for a smooth shopping experience.

How: Implement faceted search, predictive search suggestions, and well-organized product categories.

4. Detailed Product Descriptions & Specifications:

Why: Comprehensive product information helps customers make informed purchasing decisions. Include features, benefits, materials, sizing, and any other relevant details.

How: Write engaging and informative product descriptions, use bullet points for readability, and include customer reviews.

5. Secure & Multiple Payment Options:

Why: Offering secure and diverse payment options builds trust and caters to customer preferences. Integrate reputable payment gateways and consider options like credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and "buy now, pay later" services.

How: Implement SSL certificates, comply with PCI DSS standards, and offer popular payment methods.

6. Streamlined Checkout Process:

Why: A complex or lengthy checkout process can lead to cart abandonment. Simplify the process, minimize form fields, and offer guest checkout options.

How: Implement a progress bar, offer clear error messages, and provide multiple shipping options.

7. Customer Reviews & Ratings:

Why: Social proof is a powerful motivator. Customer reviews and ratings build trust and influence purchasing decisions.

How: Encourage customers to leave reviews, display ratings prominently, and address negative reviews professionally.

8. Live Chat Support:

Why: Real-time assistance can address customer inquiries, resolve issues, and guide them through the purchasing process.

How: Implement a live chat widget, provide prompt and helpful responses, and offer multilingual support if necessary.

9. Clear Shipping & Return Policies:

Why: Transparent shipping and return policies build trust and reduce customer anxiety. Clearly outline shipping costs, delivery times, and return procedures.

How: Create a dedicated shipping and returns page, provide tracking information, and offer hassle-free returns.

10. Strong Security Measures:

Why: Protecting customer data is paramount. Implement robust security measures to prevent data breaches and build trust.

How: Use SSL certificates, implement firewalls, regularly update security patches, and comply with data privacy regulations.

FAQs:

Q: How important is website speed for an e-commerce site?

A: Extremely important. Slow loading times can lead to high bounce rates and lost sales. Optimize images, use a content delivery network (CDN), and choose a reliable hosting provider.

Q: Should I offer guest checkout or require account creation?

A: Offering both options is ideal. Guest checkout allows for a faster purchase, while account creation enables features like order tracking and saved addresses.

Q: How can I encourage customers to leave reviews?

A: Send post-purchase emails requesting reviews, offer incentives like discounts, and make it easy for customers to leave reviews on product pages.

Q: What is the best way to handle abandoned carts?

A: Implement abandoned cart recovery emails, offer discounts or free shipping, and simplify the checkout process.

Q: How do I choose the right payment gateway?

A: Consider factors like transaction fees, security features, integration with your e-commerce platform, and customer support.

By prioritizing these 10 essential features, you can create an e-commerce site that delivers a superior user experience, builds trust, and drives sales.

Read more: Why Your Startup Business Needs a Website: Essential Benefits

[citynewsglobe]

[ad_1] Life migration may rank amongst essentially the most difficult duties one may undertake. No matter whether or not you might be transferring from one home or from one workplace to the opposite then the whole course of appears difficult. And right here comes the courageous hearts of transferring world referred to as removalists. These specialists have change into an increasing number of related in Brisbane as individuals search for a seamless change to new locations. Relying on packing, loading, and transportation, hiring a removalist may be the ace card that revolutionizes your transferring course of. Now let’s have a look at why hiring skilled removalists just isn't solely a choice it is best to think about however one that's crucial when relocation on this energetic metropolis is on the horizon. On the subject of inhabitants progress Brisbane is among the many areas in Australia that really feel the pinch in the intervening time and that's the reason an increasing number of individuals demand the providers of a removalist. Inhabitants progress, new professions and kinds of work, and modifications in life circumstances all are driving individuals to hunt new dwelling locations. When extra households migrate transferring into town and even throughout the vigorous suburbs of a metropolis then it turns into needed to rent an expert. With the rise within the complexity of the life-style we're unable to interact in DIY strikes. The overall inhabitants has by no means appreciated comfort and effectivity as they do now. This has culminated into growth of the varied transferring corporations that present options which might be distinctive to the purchasers’ wants. Nevertheless, viewing providers by residents additionally turns into sooner attributable to advances in applied sciences in type of on-line platforms. They'll simply establish the precise removalists with out having to seek for lengthy. This growing development emphasize the significance of skilled professionals in coping with an ever altering housing sector in Brisbane. Should you’re on the lookout for a dependable Removalist Brisbane, our staff supplies environment friendly and stress-free transferring providers that can assist you relocate easily.The providers of professional removalists can really change the best way you progress considerably. These specialists turn out to be useful in sectors of their coaching, guarantying that all the things is neat. They provide effectivity. The skilled groups who deal with the objects are all the time conscious of the precise methods for packing and loading and transporting them with out a number of loses. This relieves you of period of time that would effectively be higher spent throughout what have to be an already tense interval. Security is one other essential profit on the identical in that individuals will be capable to work below secure environmental situations. Employers be certain that they use acceptable instruments that can allow them raise or transfer mass merchandise that may in any other case trigger bodily accidents or damaging the majority merchandise required. Furthermore, hiring a removalist might be reassuring in some ways. Given that every one the logistical facets are dealt with by professionals, you do not need to hassle about minor points akin to trying to find ві areas and so forth whereas serving to you agree into your new home. A number of the removalists can have insurance coverage packages which you can avail in the course of the transferring course of. That's, if one thing goes unsuitable, you possibly can afford it with out additional misery of misplaced issues including to the issue.   Relocation is mostly characterised by confusion and disorganization, as it's simple to think about. That is the place skilled removalists stand out. They arrive with specialised perception that may flip a course of with the capability to trigger a number of stress into one which is simple to deal with.

They themselves possess educated groups that may handle all of the clearfix and logistical points successfully. You don’t have to satisfy the problem of determining how you're going to get in that enormous sofa by way of the door or whether or not your delicate items will get to their vacation spot in a single piece. Third, and maybe extra essential, removalists arrive with the suitable tools. Proper from packing containers to pickup autos, they've all the things that's wanted for a great transferring expertise. This makes you relieve a few of the burden and decrease time wastage as a result of they deal with all of the work. Moreover, there are numerous different pertinent points akin to switching on of utilities in a brand new home amongst so many issues, that may be dealt by the professionals you rent. For that reason, it enormously eases stress ranges when what ought to be an pleasure in a single’s life is affected. Hiring the correct removalist agency can go a great distance in figuring out your transferring expertise. You can begin with some primary questions which embody: An excellent removalist in Brisbane must have the mandatory permits and likewise insurances for the possessions you have got. Following the suggestions of professional opinions, the second issue which might additionally affect the corporate’s success considerably is the purchasers’ opinions. You attempt to click on on like, share some testimonial or ranking of this product on the assessment website that you just don’t often use. Buyer testimonial can be a novel supply of details about the general enterprise reliability and stage of providers provided. A very powerful components embody the value. Though price actually just isn't one thing you possibly can base a choice on, it is rather essential to check a number of estimates. Don't exclude providers offered as a part of product traces. Some companies supply packing you may additionally discover different companies that assist in unpacking your objects on the new vacation spot. Communication issues. An expert staff will all the time be able to clarify processes and any attainable hitches that will happen throughout your transfer. Such an angle can alleviate many a fear that goes with relocation. A few of this data is erroneously held concerning the removalists and will have an effect on how individuals resolve about them. One other common false impression is that hiring skilled removalist is dear. Though there are specific prices related to those providers, the reality is that such will show you how to spare your objects from getting broken and medical bills that would end result from an unlucky accident throughout a transfer. The subsequent frequent misperception is that every one the accessible removalists can supply comparable high quality of their providers. Not all corporations are the identical equal, some supply sure sort of strikes whereas others could have totally different years of expertise and capabilities. Earlier than approaching an organization, one has to make sure that they work with a good firm that has many constructive opinions. Others nonetheless imagine within the notion of ‘I-don’t-need-anyone-I-can-do-it-myself’. Nevertheless, for transferring it entails group, bodily work, and more often than not, instruments for dealing with cumbersome property. If one can't achieve skilled assist, even the slightest of modifications are more likely to change into very exhausting. Additional, many individuals suppose that solely lengthy distance strikes want skilled movers although this isn't the case. It additionally applies for native home or house transferring, when skilled assist is required for effectivity and forestall issues harm. In understanding these misperceptions about removalists in Brisbane, you’re more likely to make a sensible choice in your future transfer. It can make the method simpler than you anticipate and it's reassuring to have professionals to show to—stress might be relieved by asking for help.

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[infjtarot]

9 of Cups. Numinous Tarot

One of everyone’s favorite cards: the Wish Card! Seeing the Nine of Vials often means you’re about to get what you want. We left the party in the Eight of Vials, seeking spiritual truths, and we found them. That quiet, that soul- searching, that star-gazing has paid off and the inner work we’ve done has led us to something wonderful and full of beauty. The person in this card is offering us a choice of many lovely vials filled with shining stars, suns, and moons. Which one will you make your wish on? A very important facet of this card is that the wish-fulfillment comes only after we know what it is we truly want and need. We have looked past societal pressures, advertisement, and external expectations to discover what lies in our hearts and ours alone. Know that what you’re receiving with this card will benefit you, even if others cannot see how, even if it goes against the grain.