#car parts Auckland

[aucklandcarpartsblog]

Auckland car parts - Toyota car parts provider in auckland

We provide all the quality Toyota parts Auckland you need for a hassle-free ride and efficient use within Auckland at Auckland car parts . We have a stock of both original and aftermarket parts, and fit for every single model and age of Toyota. Our competitive prices and rapid turnaround ensure the parts you need will be available when you need them. We take pride in good friendly service, we are here to help you with your reliable Car Parts Auckland and the best customer service.

[carremovalservice]

Don't Miss Out! Best Used Car Part Deals in Auckland

Finding the best deals on used car parts can be a game-changer for vehicle owners looking to save money. If you're in Auckland, you have an excellent opportunity to buy used car parts Auckland at unbeatable prices. Why spend a fortune on brand-new parts when you can find high-quality, pre-owned alternatives that perform just as well?

Shopping for used parts not only helps you cut costs but also supports environmental sustainability by recycling automotive components. For the best selection and incredible deals, look no further than Auckland Car Parts. Their extensive inventory and customer-focused service ensure you'll get exactly what you need without breaking the bank. Don't miss out on these fantastic opportunities to save!

Free Backlinks :

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https://loresoft.gr/forum/forum/development/announcements/10236-reliable-and-efficient-car-disposal-services-in-auckland

https://forum.leaglesamiksha.com/thread/reliable-and-efficient-car-disposal-services-in-auckland/

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[jcp-car-parts]

Discover Top-Quality Auto Parts in New Zealand

When it comes to sourcing reliable and durable components for your vehicle, finding the right supplier is crucial. Japanese auto parts NZ are renowned for their quality and performance, making them a popular choice among car enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're looking for engine components, transmission parts, or accessories, you'll find a wide range of options to meet your needs. For the best selection and exceptional service, trust JCP Car Parts to provide the high-quality Japanese auto parts you need.

[bamianautoparts]

What Do Car Wreckers in Auckland do With Scrap Cars 

Have you ever wondered what happens to your scrap automobile once you sell it to car wreckers in Auckland? It is the final goodbye for car owners, yet the vehicle's journey does not finish there.

Let's look at what car wreckers in Auckland do with the junk cars they collect and why their work is so crucial.

What exactly are car wreckers?

The business of meticulously dismantling destroyed, broken, or otherwise retired vehicles is known as car wrecking. A car wrecking crew will identify and salvage any useful pieces that can be sold.

Unusable metal parts, such as a smashed chassis, bumper, or interior components beyond repair, are sold to scrap metal firms and recycled.

Rather than allowing old vehicles to decay, auto wreckers work to guarantee that they are responsibly and efficiently disposed of.

The worth of salvageable spare components

Cars that have been dismantled can sometimes provide a number of usable parts. Each of them may still be useful to someone looking for spares. Car wreckers in Auckland frequently recycle and resell useable car parts like:

Headlights, turn signals, and taillights.

Seating and upholstery.

Parts of an exhaust system.

Mirrors.

Wheels and hubcaps are made of aluminium.

Engines and engine components.

Transmission networks.

Windows and windshields are in good condition.

An automobile may be rendered undrivable by a handful of old or broken components, although the bulk of the internal or external components is frequently in good operating order.

The recycling of automobiles

Car wreckers in Auckland recycle vehicles using a complex procedure that ensures all usable components are recovered, and all useless elements are properly repurposed. This procedure also covers properly disposing of items and fluids that cannot be resold or recycled.

Tires and wheels

Car wreckers will remove the wheels and tires from scrapped vehicles. An automobile wrecked due to engine failure or serious structural damage may still have relatively new tires with plenty of tread remaining. Used tires and wheels are a convenient and cost-effective solution for existing car owners.

The catalytic converter

It is an exhaust emission control device that aids in reducing pollutants from a vehicle's exhaust fumes. They are found in automobiles with internal combustion engines (gasoline or diesel), and brand-new replacements can be expensive.

Battery for a car

If the battery still has enough juice, the car-wrecking crew will take it and reuse it. Car batteries are a typical component that needs to be replaced. Scrapped cars may still contain a working battery, which can be useful for other drivers to reuse.

Vehicle fluid draining

Automobile fluids include engine coolant, engine oil, transmission fluids, petrol, air conditioning refrigerant, and windshield wiper fluid. As part of dismantling, car wreckers will drain the vehicle of all these fluids.

Components of electronics

Modern automobiles contain many valuable electrical components that might be costly to replace. Each of these components will be removed by car wreckers in Auckland.

Transmission and engine

In some cases, a car wrecker may be able to remove and reuse entire engines or transmission systems. These massive mechanical components may still be valuable depending on the state of the destroyed car. These parts can be sold as-is or forwarded to a remanufacturer for repair.

Hazardous substances

Car wreckers meticulously dismantle vehicles and take special precautions to dispose of dangerous items safely. Mercury is an example of a dangerous material that may be found in anti-lock brake systems, screens, high-intensity headlamps, or hood-mounted light switches. Another hazardous element in waste automobiles is sodium azide, used as fuel in airbags.

[japanesecarremoval]

Discover top-quality used car parts Auckland at Japanese Car Removals. Whether you're looking for engines, transmissions, or body parts, we offer a wide selection of reliable components at competitive prices. Our inventory includes parts for various makes and models, ensuring you find the right fit for your vehicle. Benefit from our expertise and customer service to get back on the road without breaking the bank. Contact Japanese Car Removals today for all your automotive part needs in Auckland.

[magicshopaholic]

Part 1: A Rainy Day

Summary: Namjoon is on holiday with his girlfriend - and without Namjoon, all hell breaks loose.

Pairing: OT7 x OC (different OCs)

Genre: Humour, fluff, angst, chaos

Word count: 6.9 K

Rating: 18+

Warnings: language

A/N: I can't believe we're finally here! This fic has been in mind for so long, slowly evolving from a concept with a soundtrack to a whole outline and now to a complete half of a fic! Everything from the song to the situation to the leap that most of the characters will take feel like a milestone, so here's hoping it's a good one *insert gatsby meme*

The teaser to this fic got a lot of reactions :D so to make it worth the anticipation, this will be split into two parts. It is set a week or so after Dinner at the Kangs'. Enjoy!

Tagging: @bbl32@quarter-life-crisis2@dreaming-with-happiness@faearchives@margopinkerton@purpleseoul7@confessionsofamarshlily @jiminjhang @xjoonchildx @tarahardcore @infinitehobi @handfullofcandids @whoisbts @kflixnet (drop a message if you want to be added)

Listen to: “bittersweet symphony" by the verve

teaser | main masterlist

November in Seoul rolls around unexpectedly soon and occupies its usual position: a harbinger of the cold and white winter months, making the heat and humidity of summer a distant memory.

With BTS’s world tour officially at an end, followed by its normal uptick in concert clips and dance challenges floating around the internet while the company celebrates amidst figurative piles of cash, the members finally have the luxury of a few weeks off work where seeing them off stage and in casuals is the new novelty.

This includes Namjoon as well. After a tumultuous year of heartbreak and pain and longing, along with the real and genuine fear that he may have to give up the girl of his dreams due to extenuating circumstances, he and Kaya mutually decide that they need time away to reconnect with each other. Leaving behind their homes in Seoul and Amsterdam respectively, they reunite at Auckland Airport from where they take a cab in relative anonymity to begin their vacation.

With Namjoon gone, the company automatically takes it easy on the group as well. With Namjoon gone, the members manage to relax, able to keep an additional distance between them and the company before work inevitably starts again and the nomadic life of sleepless nights, dance practices and event appearances resurface.

Perhaps they underestimate their leader’s role in their lives, or it simply does not occur to them just how dependent they all are on each other after a decade of working, living and breathing in synchronicity. Namjoon is only gone for three weeks in total - but with Namjoon gone, all hell breaks loose.

With Namjoon gone, one member crosses a line.

With Namjoon gone, one member unintentionally makes a mess.

With Namjoon gone, one member makes a joke without realising its consequences.

With Namjoon gone, one member does something he’s ashamed of.

And with Namjoon gone, two members kiss someone they shouldn’t.

—

“Screen, food, lights - check.” Jimin tucks his bottom lip between his teeth as he frowns at his phone screen, eyes flitting between it and the writing pad he’s hastily scribbling on. “Need to pick up the champagne - oi, Jungkook, can you give me a ride to the liquor store? My car is getting serviced this weekend.”

“What about your Toyota?”

“It’s at my apartment. That’s farther than the liquor store.”

Jungkook pauses and looks up from the stove, across the kitchen island from Jimin. “Wait, the liquor store is in the building. Why do you need -”

“Not that liquor store,” interrupts Jimin patiently. “I need to go to the one in Gangnam, which has the tasting menu and assortments.”

“Why -“

“Because it’s Sooah’s birthday,” answers Taehyung from where he’s lying down on the sofa, scrolling through his phone and not bothering to look up. “Normal champagne won’t cut it. Not for Kim Sooah.”

Hoseok frowns, coming up from behind Jimin and peering at the writing pad. “Why not? Wait - why do you need professional lighting and sound equipment?” he asks, reading from it. “And food from Golden Pig? I thought the lunch was at MOBO Bar. Hang on -“ He looks bewildered. “Isn’t her birthday tomorrow?”

“The lunch tomorrow is for all her friends,” supplies Jungkook, pouring a steaming pot of cooked ramen into a bowl. “Tonight is just hyung and Sooah.”

“Yes, and don’t anyone be late tomorrow.” Jimin reminds them in a business-like tone, continuing to check things on his phone and tick them off. “I know you guys have to film a thing tomorrow morning, but make sure you come straight there. And, seriously - can anyone drive me to the liquor store or not?”

“I have a Zoom meeting starting in five minutes,” says Hoseok, clapping him on the back, “or I totally would. What about Yoongi?”

“He’s not here. He left for a meeting in Incheon this morning,” chimes in Jungkook again. “Won’t be back until later.”

“How much later -” Hoseok starts to ask, but is cut off by Jimin huffing.

“So no one can take me to the liquor store?” he demands. “Which is, like, twenty minutes away? I wish Namjoon hyung were here,” he adds sullenly, shaking his head. “He would’ve driven me.”

“Oh, don’t be dramatic,” says Hoseok indulgently. “Taehyung, you can take him. Your car has a ton of extra space, too.”

“I’m busy,” answers Taehyung listlessly, still on his phone. When no one responds, he looks up to see all the other three staring at him. “Fine, I guess I could,” he agrees with a huge sigh, clambering off the sofa and trudging to the dining table, sliding into the seat adjacent to Jimin’s.

Jimin narrows his eyes. “It’s not such a big deal, you know. You can just give me your keys if you want.”

“Yeah, why are you in such a mood today, anyway?” Hoseok asks, his hands on the back of Jimin’s chair.

“‘M sorry,” he mumbles, running his hands over his unwashed face. “I’m just…” He shakes his head and takes a deep breath, closing his eyes. “Hungry, I guess.”

“Hungry?”

“That’s code for horny,” says Jimin, raising his eyebrows nonchalantly when Taehyung looks up to glare at him, but doesn’t disagree.

Hoseok snorts as Jungkook joins them with his ramen, silently sitting across from Taehyung. “That must be some dry spell if you can’t help out your buddy,” he says, a bit pointedly.

Taehyung observes Jimin for a moment, then sighs. “You know what? You’re right. Let’s go to the liquor store. I’ll help you look for the best champagne out there - and since you’re not driving, you can try every single thing on the tasting menu,” he offers in a moment of generosity.

Jimin’s head snaps up from his phone. “Really?” When Taehyung nods, relief floods his cherubic face. “Thank God. Because I - I really need tonight to be absolutely perfect -”

“I know, I know,” interrupts Taehyung, clapping him on the shoulder and standing up. “I’ll just grab a quick shower and we’ll go. Jungkook,” he says, waiting for the younger member to look up in surprise. “Want to come along?”

Jungkook, who’s polished most of his bowl clean by now, looks up at him with wide eyes. “Me?”

“Yeah,” answers Taehyung evenly. “Why not?”

There’s a flicker of doubt in Jungkook’s eyes which he seems to partially blink away. “Yeah. Yeah, no, yeah - I mean - sure.” He scoops up a large bite of noodles with his chopsticks and inhales it. “Jus’ give me a minute,” he says through a mouthful of food.

Taehyung nods. “Ramen looks good,” he says after a moment. “Can I have a bite?”

Jungkook nods instantly and pushes the bowl across the table. Taehyung takes a bite, slurping the sauce until he’s swallowed the entire thing. “Delicious,” he says honestly, waiting just long enough to see Jungkook smile before turning around and heading into his room.

—

“This one’s fruity,” decides Jimin, smacking his lips and frowning seriously. He places the small glass down and picks up another, giving it a sniff and proceeding to take a sip. “But this one is definitely more bubbly.”

It takes a lot for a liquor store to provide a tasting menu for champagne, but for the correct price, it can be done. Taehyung isn’t entirely sure how much Jimin has paid for this particular round of testers but he gives his honest opinions, careful to keep his friend’s spirits high for today.

It hadn’t occurred to him back at the house, but it seems obvious now why Jimin is so anxious about tonight. If Taehyung’s hunch is correct, it’s because it’s Sooah’s first birthday since they’ve gotten back together after years of sniping and occasionally hooking up, and Jimin has taken on the pressure to make it perfect to the next level.

“I like this one.” Jungkook points to a bottle on the shelf. “We had it after the last concert, remember?”

Jimin looks up briefly and shakes his head. “Chandon is the last resort, if I find nothing better today. Come on, it’s Sooah’s birthday. Chandon is way too basic.”

Jungkook raises his eyebrows but says nothing, his eyes meeting Taehyung’s, who takes his hunch to be correct.

“I’m going to go see if there are any other bottles at the back,” says Taehyung, leaving Jimin to overthink the little glasses of bubbly liquid. He stops by one of the staff and leans in. “Can you bill a Chandon anyway?” he asks in a low voice. “Just in case?”

“Of course. Should I combine it with Mr Park’s other purchases?”

Taehyung shakes his head. “Put it on my tab.”

The staff nods and takes a bottle up to the register as Taehyung turns the corner to another shelf full of champagne, Jungkook a few steps behind him.

“That was nice,” he comments, hovering at the edge of the shelf.

“He deserves it,” mutters Taehyung, feeling slightly guilty about his standoffish behaviour at the dorm a little while ago. “Guy’s stressing way too much. I know Sooah will love whatever he’s planning. She’s chill that way.” He pauses. “What is he planning, anyway?”

“I mean, I don’t know all the details but I think it’s one of those movie screening things at the park.”

“In public? At the park? What - are they going to sit in the back and pour out champagne while everyone else is drinking cokes and beers?”

“What? No, he rented out the whole park,” explains Jungkook. “It’s just them, with a huge screen and seating and food - and champagne, I guess. He’s got professional sound equipment and heating and blankets and everything. He really went all out.”

Taehyung stares, a bit horrified but mostly impressed. “Wow. That actually sounds really romantic.”

“It does,” agrees Jungkook absently, peering at the label of a bottle where he’s still standing at the end of the aisle. “I just hope it goes well.”

“So do I. And I hope it doesn’t rain,” he points out. “It’s been drizzling every day and raining in parts of the city. It could really put a damper on the whole outdoor movie thing.”

“Yeah. Hopefully it won’t.”

“Hopefully.”

A slightly awkward silence falls over them. Taehyung glances over at him to see him pick up a bottle of whiskey from the opposite shelf. He turns the bottle over in his hands before looking at the price tag, letting out a low whistle and placing the bottle back.

“What about you?” When Jungkook looks up, Taehyung continues. “Any plans today?”

“Uh, not really.” He pauses. “I have a date, actually. Kind of.”

“Yeah? With the tattoo artist?” When he nods, Taehyung grins. “Nice. Why aren’t you more excited about it, though?”

Jungkook gives a noncommittal shrug. “I don’t know. I was thinking of blowing it off. Going to the gym, maybe. Namjoon hyung usually joins me on Fridays and we spot each other on the bench press but I guess I’ll have to go alone today. Unless you want to come along?” he asks hesitantly.

Taehyung had spent a couple of hours at the gym yesterday but he nods anyway. “I’d love to, but why are you avoiding your date?”

“I’m not avoiding it. I haven’t worked out in, like… three days.”

“So come back and work out.” Taehyung frowns. “I have nothing to do all day so I’ll be here whenever. You may want to go easier on the weights with me, though.”

Jungkook chuckles, sounding relieved. “Give yourself a little more credit than that, hyung.”

“Please. Namjoon broke the lock on my bedroom door with one hand the day he left when he was looking for a spare set of Airpods.” Taehyung shakes his head. “He’s a menace, and he just adds to it whenever he starts working out.”

Jungkook laughs. “We’re definitely less clumsy in the gym than he is, that’s for sure. Is seven pm good for you?”

“Yeah, that’s fine. Dilara has been pestering me to give boxing a shot, so, you know. Tonight might be the night.”

“Oh. Right. Yeah, of course. That’s a good idea. I mean -” He shakes his head, as though getting rid of a fly. “It’s… it’s an idea.”

Taehyung is about to comment on this strange response but notices Jungkook gazing intently at the whiskey shelf again, his ears slightly red, and decides not to.

Ever since the Samsung event nearly a month ago, Jungkook has been almost walking on eggshells around Taehyung. Taehyung wishes he wouldn’t; that night had been awkward at best and contentious at worst, and had been entirely unexpected on various fronts. However, he and Dilara had awoken the next morning in an air of mutual forgiveness and shared an intimate couple of hours before breakfast, filled with silent apologies and hope.

Regarding Jungkook, Taehyung had had every intention of giving him the cold shoulder for a while, at least, still somewhat peeved at the sudden confrontation from his very non-confrontational friend. As it turned out, the moment they’d all reached Seoul and climbed out of their separate SUVs, Jungkook had cornered Taehyung outside their building and begun apologising profusely. 

That had taken him more off guard than their argument last night; Taehyung had tried to get a word in amidst the explanations but looking at how horrible Jungkook clearly felt, he hadn’t had the heart to give him any more grief about it. Somehow, the whole situation had ended with Taehyung comforting Jungkook, telling him to forget about it, that he understood he and Dilara were friends.

Jungkook had looked like he wanted to say something more but he’d shook his head instead, and they’d hugged until Dilara stepped out of her SUV. Jungkook had skirted around both of them for the next few days until Dilara had left Seoul, after which Taehyung had gently but categorically told Jungkook to chill out.

He isn’t sure if Jungkook has got the message yet. He thinks he has for the most part; they’ve hung out many times since then, for work, with other friends - but maybe the mention of Dilara has suddenly made him clam up again.

“Sir.” The same store staff who was ringing up the Chandon appears from behind the shelf. “Mr Park has picked out a Cristal that will be delivered to his residence shortly. Anything else I can help you with?”

“No, I don’t think so,” Taehyung starts to say as he and Jungkook begin moving towards the front of the store. As the younger member continues on his way, Taehyung stops. Retracing his steps, he picks up the bottle of whiskey that Jungkook had been examining.

“Can you add this to the Chandon?” he asks, waiting for the store staff to nod before he joins his friends.

—

Seokjin [12:30] Are you working late today?

Seulgi [12:33] Not sure. Why?

Seokjin [12:33] I’m on my way back from Annyeong now so I should be in Seoul in a couple of hours. Wanted to see if you maybe want to go out tonight?

Seulgi [12:36] It’s supposed to pour today. And doesn’t look likely with my calendar anyway.

Seulgi [12:37] But I’ll try, in case something opens up.

Seokjin doesn’t reach Seoul until almost three hours later. The long solo drive was a nice way to get some time to himself, especially with the mild anxiety that had started to creep up over the last couple of days, almost as though he was forgetting something. He would’ve spent a lot less time driving but the traffic was maddening; as per the radio, it was due to people driving in and out of the city for the weekend combined with rain warnings. 

He reaches the dorm to find it empty. Ordinarily, he would’ve gone back to his own apartment but something about being back in his childhood home for a week, along with Seulgi’s distant demeanour, makes him want to be around his friends for a little bit. 

As it turns out, none of them seem to be home at the moment but he knows they’re here: there’s a bowl in the sink with ramen sauce smeared on it; a Gucci hoodie he knows is Jimin’s is draped over the back of a chair; Taehyung’s bedroom door is slightly ajar, the bedcovers unmade and clearly slept in.

Seokjin sinks onto the sofa and lies down on it, closing his eyes and preparing for a nap. He has no plans for today whatsoever, especially if Seulgi doesn’t get back to him. He isn’t entirely surprised at her mood; ever since he’d ventured into the territory of him and Nari, she’d begun distancing herself from him. 

He couldn’t blame her; he had no idea what he was walking into with Nari and the fact that Seulgi had to stand by and wait for him to figure it out would have to rankle. He wasn’t fully surprised when, a couple of days after the fact, she confessed to Seokjin that it wouldn’t be the worst thing to take some time apart.

Sleep doesn’t come to him, not really. He dozes off at least half a dozen times without actually falling asleep, his mind constantly replaying the last few weeks, with that nagging sense of stress and anxiety a constant in his mind. Seokjin lazes around until he marks the attempt futile, just as the front door opens and Jimin strides in with his phone to his ear, followed by Taehyung and Jungkook trooping in behind him.

“Hey, hyung,” they chorus, Jungkook falling onto the sofa next to Seokjin. “When did you get back?”

“Just a little while ago.” Seokjin looks around at them, rubbing his eyes. “Are you guys also staying here this weekend?”

Before any of them can answer, one of the other bedroom doors opens and Hoseok steps out, stretching and yawning. “Hey, hyung. How was the champagne tasting?” he asks Jimin, who holds up a finger as he continues talking.

“Oi, Hobi, you’re here, too?” Seokjin frowns, bewildered. “Wait, have you been here this whole time?”

Hoseok nods and points noncommittally to his bedroom as he walks over to the dining table to peer into a bag that Taehyung has placed on it. “Ooh, Chandon. Is that the one he picked finally?”

���Jimin chose the Cristal,” says Jungkook. “And he’s getting it delivered.”

“He did and it is,” confirms Taehyung, and says no more.

Hoseok raises his eyebrows. “Okay. And what about the Jameson?”

“That’s for Jungkook.”

Hoseok just about catches Jungkook’s surprised look before Seokjin speaks again. “So - wait, I thought Jimin’s lunch was tomorrow.”

“Sooah’s, and yes,” says Jimin, getting off the phone and finally looking up, seeming a bit frazzled. “Tonight is just me and her. There was some kind of confusion with the food,” he says to Taehyung, who’s giving him a questioning look.

“Oh, hey, if Sooah is going to be with you tonight, does that mean Chaeyoung will be home alone?” Hoseok asks.

“I guess,” answers Jimin vaguely as his phone rings again. “Damn it, it’s the park coordinator again.”

“The park?” Seokjin raises his eyebrows sceptically as Jimin takes the call, and turns around to look out the nearest window. “It’s already drizzling. It’s supposed to pour tonight, you know?”

Hoseok shrugs, while Jungkook clicks his tongue. “Doesn’t matter. Jimin is in charge and if he wants to give the birthday girl a night in the park, he’s going to make sure it happens.”

And suddenly, Seokjin knows what he’s been forgetting.

—

“Okay, wait.” Jimin exhales sharply and closes his eyes. “You said that you do have an option of a makeshift roof or something - but now you’re saying you don’t want to do it? I put a deposit down on the whole place,” he reminds him.

“Mr Park, I’m saying we can do it but I don’t recommend it,” says the coordinator patiently. “We use that for light drizzles or snowfall but the downpour that’s been predicted will render it useless.”

“There’s been a downpour predicted every single day of this week and nothing has happened,” he points out. “I’m okay to take that risk.”

“It’s not just the furniture, Mr Park.” The coordinator sounds mildly stern now. “It’s a lot of expensive sound equipment as well and I cannot, in good conscience, risk having it outside -“

“Okay.” Jimin interrupts him, squeezing his eyes shut and trying to think. “What if we moved it to slightly earlier?”

“It’s already drizzling, sir.”

“Fine, do you have a different spot in the park?” He asks through gritted teeth. “Something more canopied, perhaps?”

The coordinator hums vaguely and there’s the clicking of a keyboard in the background. Jimin rolls his eyes at Taehyung, who’s approaching him with a questioning look, and mutes the call.

“I’m going to kill this guy,” he mutters, shaking his head. “I've been planning this for a month and he’s pulling the rug out from under me now?”

“I mean, he may have a point. If it rains then your plan is ruined - but it’ll probably stop in a bit,” Taehyung adds hastily when Jimin glowers.

“God, I hope so,” he says, although even he is starting to think that it might not. “I can handle a slight change of plan with the venue but the rest of it has to be perfect. There’s the food and the cake, and - oh, did the champagne arrive?”

“Er, not yet.” Taehyung checks his watch. “They said they would send it in an hour, right? Should’ve been here by now.”

Jimin is about to swear but just then, the park coordinator says something. He waves Taehyung away, accepting an encouraging clap on the back, and gets back on the call.

“Sir, we might have something on the other side of the park,” he suggests hesitantly. “The view is not the same, but it fits the general requirement.”

“The view - you mean it doesn’t have a view of the Han.” Jimin takes a deep breath, preparing to choose his battles. “Okay. What is this other side of the park? Where - how -  I mean, what does it look like?”

“It’s in a way that the screen and the projector and all the sound equipment will be protected, but you and your companion will still be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.”

Jimin frowns. “How -“ Somehow, all he’s able to picture is some kind of garage where everything is stuffed in and just two lawn chairs and dragged out onto the grass.

“It’s available for inspection now, sir. But we don’t have a lot of time as we need to confirm the booking at least two hours before the actual event in order to make preparations.”

Jimin’s eyes widen and he lunges after Taehyung, grabbing his hand and checking his watch. “It’s almost five pm! I was supposed to have the venue from seven pm anyway!”

“You are an esteemed client, Mr Park, so we can make that exception. Our staff is very efficient and can help you -“

He resists the urge to scream over the phone at someone who, at the end of the day, is just doing his job.

“I’ll be there,” he says quickly and hangs up. “Okay, I’m heading out,” he adds to nobody in particular, but Taehyung follows him into his room anyway.

“Everything okay?” he asks, stopping at the doorway.

“No. Actually, you know what? Yes,” says Jimin firmly, shedding his clothes and throwing on the outfit he was planning to wear (comfortable jeans and a Louis Vuitton jacket, plus a Gucci hoodie of his that Sooah loves to snuggle in). “It will be okay because there’s really no other option.”

“Look, I’m sure it’ll work out fine, but… I mean, I’m sure Sooah will appreciate the thought no matter how it goes,” he reasons.

“You know, I’m sure she will,” agrees Jimin hurriedly, “but I need this to be more than just a thought. Okay? Because this is - this is -” He struggles for a few moments before giving up. “This is Kim Sooah,” he says finally.

Taehyung looks like he wants to say something but instead he simply nods. “Okay, go, then. Let me know if you need anything.”

“Yeah - can you bring the champagne down there once it gets delivered?” he asks immediately, rushing out of the room and gathering his phone and keys. “The food and cake will come there directly - hang on, I need to check out -” He fishes out his phone and makes a call, tucking the phone in between his ear and shoulder.

They reach the living room and Jimin scans it to see Hoseok, Seokjin and Jungkook in front of the television, sharing a large bowl of popcorn while a football match goes on. 

“Jungkook, I’m taking your car.” Jimin grabs a bunch of keys from the side table and, without waiting for a response, dashes out of the front door.

The park coordinator may not have been completely wrong; the rain is already at a steady speed, enough that most people have pulled out their umbrellas and the roads are starting to get jammed. He drives to the park anyway, a little unsettled at seeing it completely empty this time of day, leaves the Gucci hoodie in the backseat and runs inside towards the office.

The coordinator seems to be waiting for him. “Right this way, Mr Park,” he says immediately, barely giving Jimin time to run a hand through his damp blond hair before ushering him out under a black umbrella.

“This is the alternative?” Jimin asks a few minutes later, staring up at the thick cloth separating them from the rain.

“Yes - now I know it’s not probably what you pictured but it’s the best we can do in such short notice, Mr Park.”

“Actually, this is exactly what I pictured,” he murmurs, heart sinking. It does look like a makeshift garage in front of them, like something he would’ve planned back when they were in high school, using a bedsheet for a screen and a Bluetooth speaker for an innovative night out, with instant ramen and cokes. He’d hoped that now, all these years later, they were finally due for an upgrade - but the universe clearly had other plans.

Okay, Jimin. Stop whining. Just think. He takes a deep breath and turns around, wincing a little and trying to ignore how the rain is getting louder by the minute.

“Okay, so it’s… five-thirty,” he says. “Sooah will be here by seven which gives me just enough time to follow up on the food and drinks. What?” he asks, when the coordinator’s assistant looks confused.

“Well, it’s - it’s just -” She stutters, pushing her glasses up her nose. “Won’t the food get ruined, sir?” 

“Why will it -” Jimin stops, closing his eyes. The rain. “Fuck me,” he mutters under his breath.

“Sir, we can arrange for a table next to the screen under the roof so you and your friend can come up and take your food and go back outside -” He stops abruptly when he sees Jimin’s incredulous expression. “I mean… it could be like a buffet,” he reasons in a small voice.

“It won’t be anything like a buffet. Sir, come on -” He sighs, at his wit’s end and getting anxious. “Can’t we get - I don’t know - something stronger up there to protect us from the rain? The screen, projector, electronics - all of that is going to be under the roof. The sound is going to be compromised because of the rain anyway - can’t we just get a slightly stronger thing above our heads so the food doesn’t have to move, too?”

The coordinator starts to say something sympathetic when Jimin’s phone rings. He apologises and picks it up immediately. “Taehyung! Come to the other end of the park - no, not that side. The side by the exit parking lot.” He stays on the phone for another minute until he spots Taehyung jogging up the path with an umbrella in one hand and a plain tote bag in the other that Jimin assumes contains the champagne.

“Thank God,” he sighs, shoving his phone back in his pocket as Taehyung reaches him.

“Okay, listen -” Taehyung holds up a hand. “Don’t freak out. But I think when you gave the liquor store your address, you gave them your apartment and not the dorm. But - “ He says loudly, preempting Jimin’s heart stopping in his chest, “I got this as a backup,” he says, retrieving a bottle of Chandon from the bag.

It’s not what Jimin had chosen but the fact that something has found a solution is more than he could hope for right now. In a moment of emotion, he hugs Taehyung tightly.

“Alright,” says Taehyung gruffly, patting him on the back. “Come on now, you have things to do, Jimin. Oh, speaking of which,” he adds as Jimin steps away, “Sooah called me a little while ago. I don’t know if she was looking for hints or what, but I told her you’re working really hard at it.”

“You did?” Jimin can’t decide if this is a good thing. “Alright. Well. Got to get it done, then, I guess.”

“It’ll be great. Don’t worry.”

There’s a clap of thunder and they both jump. Taehyung opens his mouth, clearly looking for words of comfort but eventually gives up. Giving Jimin another pat on the shoulder, he hurries away in the rain, the umbrella barely helping anymore. 

—

Stepping out of a hot shower, steam still rising from the bathroom behind him, Seokjin ties a towel around his waist and enters his room. The moment he does, the first thing he sees is the view outside the window, with rain lashing down the city. He stares at it, horridly fascinated, when he remembers.

He sits on his bed, glad he’s in the warmth of the dorm, and makes a phone call.

“Hey,” he says, glad she picked up on the second ring. “How are you?”

“Fine,” says Seulgi, but she doesn’t sound curt. “You?”

“I’m okay. What about you? Are you still at Big Hit?” 

“Yeah, why?”

“Uh, have you looked outside?”

“Oh. That.” Seulgi sighs. “Yeah, it looks pretty bad. But I still have work to get done so I’m stuck here for a while no matter what. All I can do is hope the rain stops sometime tonight.”

“The forecast says it’s going to go on really late,” points out Seokjin, peering out of the window uneasily again. “I can barely see the river from my window anymore. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to get home now before it gets worse. I can pick you up,” he offers.

“No. I mean - no, thank you,” she amends, her voice softening a bit. “I told you, I have a ton of work to get done. There are still two whole meetings to go - I don’t think I’ll be able to leave before ten, no matter what.”

“But it’ll get actively dangerous to commute in worse rain than this,” he argues. “The company should care about an employee’s wellbeing over a meeting.”

She scoffs. “You work for the same company, Seokjin,” she reminds him. “How many times have they prioritised your wellbeing over a work commitment?”

To this, Seokjin has no answer. “You have a point,” he admits grudgingly, and is heartened to hear her chuckle. “Okay, but can you tell me whenever your meetings do end? I’ll pick you up - and I’ll drop you to your place,” he clarifies quickly. “If that’s what you want.”

Seulgi doesn’t reply for a few seconds. “Seokjin,” she says carefully, but then sighs. “I appreciate what you’re trying to do but I don’t know if…”

He waits for her to continue but when she doesn’t, he speaks. “Look, I’m not trying anything,” he says, turning away from the window and feeling the same guilt he’s felt around her for weeks now. “But these are special circumstances. I mean, I don’t know if you have a window anywhere around you, but it is insane out there right now.”

“Alright,” she says, but she doesn’t sound convinced. “I’ll let you know. Chances are, the rain will stop.”

“Let me know either way.” Seokjin waits until she hangs up, not really sure what he was expecting from this exchange. Seulgi wasn’t off base at all; apart from the rain, the constant nagging guilt at putting her through this period of doubt definitely played a part.

He isn’t any closer to figuring out his stance with Nari. Seulgi feels far away, farther away than a girlfriend should. It’s a mess and all he can do now is wait.

The rain pours harder, the sky darkening and thunder deafening. Jungkook is lazing around the house, doing laundry and other chores while Taehyung is video calling a friend who’s working abroad. Hoseok is a ball of nervous energy, mentioning more than once that he hopes Chaeyoung is okay in the storm and safe at home. 

Seokjin just waits, until a couple of hours later, Seulgi finally lets him know.

Seulgi [20:00] Hey. So my second meeting hasn’t even started yet and I think the company has finally caught on to the situation outside. Apparently they got a government advisory about the storm and that it’s only going to get worse.

Seokjin [20:01] So… what? They’re not letting you leave?

Seulgi [20:02] They’re advising us not to. And honestly, I don’t think anyone should be outside in this rain. Apparently parts of the city are losing electricity, too - another team was supposed to have a work dinner in Hongdae but it got cancelled because the whole restaurant shut down.

Seokjin [20:03] How will you get home then?

Seulgi [20:03] They’ve set up rooms here - I think they’ve repurposed the resting rooms that the idols use on the top floor for the rest of us mere mortals. It’s not ideal but it’s better than trying to go out there.

Seokjin bites his lip. It sounds rather like she’s made a decision, albeit grudgingly, and in typical Seulgi fashion, has told him subtly not to bother coming over. It’s hard to argue when she hasn’t said it in so many words, and even harder to justify an argument while being able to hear the wind outside. 

“What are you guys planning to do for the rest of the night?” Seokjin asks, looking up at the others.

“Not sure,” answers Taehyung, getting up from where he was lying on the sofa and walking towards the kitchen. “Lazy night in, I think. Jungkook has a date, though,” he adds, grinning.

Hoseok whistles teasingly as Jungkook chuckles, his ears going slightly red. “I do but it’s raining so hard. I’ll probably have to cancel,” he says, giving Taehyung a sheepish smile that Seokjin doesn’t fully understand.

“Okay, so that’s two. Hobi?” Seokjin taps his watch. “What about you?”

“Oh, uh…” Hoseok shakes his head, looking a bit distracted. “Not sure. Why?”

“Just - just curious. Seulgi was just saying that there’s an advisory about the storm floating around and Hongdae has lost power or something, so in case any of you have plans…”

Hoseok’s face goes slack. “Hongdae lost power?”

“Well, one restaurant in Hongdae lost power as far as I know -”

“Chaeyoung lives near Hongdae,” mutters Hoseok, tapping furiously on his phone before putting it to his ear. “Sooah is out with Jimin so she’s probably alone…” He taps his foot impatiently for a few seconds before swearing. “She isn’t picking up.”

“Maybe it’s a signal issue,” Jungkook starts to say, but Hoseok is already off the sofa and grabbing a jacket. “Wait, where are you going?”

“To check on Chaeyoung,” he answers bluntly, rummaging for his car keys in the bowl on the mantle and dashing out of the apartment without any further explanation, the door slamming shut behind him.

Seokjin’s heart races; it’s a gale out there, but this is a sign. Chaeyoung must matter that much to Hoseok, if the decision was that quick for him. He checks his watch again to see it’s a quarter past eight. He traces the familiar route in his mind, calculating how much longer it will probably take him to get there than the average day.

Something clicks and he hurries up off the couch as well, pulling his shoes on before the other two even seem to realise that something has happened.

“Wait, where are you -”

Taehyung is cut off by the front door slamming shut for the second time. Seokjin hurries down the hall, checking his pocket for his phone and keys as he takes the elevator to the basement car parking.

If he had been amazed by the rain from inside the three storey dorm in Hannam Hill, he wasn’t ready for the real thing. The moment he pulls his car out of the parking lot and above ground, the sound of the rain hitting the roof of his car is like gunshots. For a moment, he considers reversing and doing this another day but the fact of the matter is that today is the day. 

In the distance, he sees what could be another set of headlights turning down a path and out of the main gates that he guesses is Hoseok. Making up his mind, he heads out, trying to drive as carefully as possible in the severely compromised visibility of the streets.

The roads are largely empty save for buses, some taxis and cars that seem to be desperate to get done with the night. Despite knowing the route like the back of his hand, Seokjin plugs in his phone and turns on the map in case there are road blockages, and starts driving.

He has no idea what Big Hit can possibly do when it comes to building any sort of nightly camp for its employees in the office. All these years, his attempt has remained to stay as far away from that artificially lit building as he possibly can, preferring to cling on to the vestiges of normal life outside of it.

Namjoon will know. The answer comes easily to him and even though the leader is on holiday, Seokjin decides this is enough of an emergency to disturb him during it. He calls him and waits, still driving through the rain as best as he can, the roads flowing and reflecting the street lamps, the sheets of rain falling with a vengeance. 

Namjoon doesn’t answer, possibly because it's his last few hours of vacation. Swearing uncharacteristically, Seokjin dials the next best person. The line crackles and a woman’s voice, a bit far away, sounds abruptly before another takes its place.

“Hello?”

“Yoongi,” says Seokjin gratefully, swerving down a lane and wincing as he splashes a row of bikes parked along the side of the road. “Listen - have you ever seen the resting rooms on the top floor of the company building?”

There are sounds at the other end, of similar rain and splashing water. The woman’s voice floats again, a soft “Shit” in the background before Yoongi speaks.

“What?”

“The resting rooms on the top floor,” repeats Seokjin urgently, honking at what he thinks might be another car coming the opposite way. The side mirrors are completely useless by now. “Have you seen them? What are they like?”

“Oh, that? The ones for the idols?” There’s a screeching sound on the other end and Yoongi swears this time. “They’re fine, I guess. I’ve crashed there a couple times after all-nighters.”

“Really?” Relief washes over Seokjin but before he can say anything further, the voice at the other pierces the air.

“Yoongi - that’s a tree!” 

“Fuck!” Another screeching sound, a loud one, and then silence. “Uh… hyung,” says Yoongi, sounding uncertain. “I’m going to have to call you back.”

The line goes silent but Seokjin has what he wants. He just hopes Yoongi is okay and makes a mental note to call him in a little while as he pulls onto Hangang-daero, passing building after building - museums, a school, the ramen joint where he and Seulgi had first gone to almost a year ago… he keeps going, barely able to see the flyover in front of him through the rain. His wipers work overtime as he passes the last building before the bridge, seeing the company logo flash momentarily in his rearview mirror before it disappears.

The areas off the main road are darker somehow, the roads narrower, trees thicker and the rain seeming even more stifling. But the closer Seokjin gets, the more he’s convinced that he’s made the right decision. He parks the car in his regular spot and, holding his hood over his head, sprints across the street as the raindrops pelt him until he enters the building, already fairly wet.

He doesn’t dither; running upstairs to the first floor, he knocks on the door, thankful that there’s a sliver of light underneath. Behind him, the storm rages on. As he waits, Seokjin turns to look outside the window in the corridor, seeing small gusts of wind and trees moving with the force. Twenty seconds and his socks and shoes are drenched; he slides open the window slightly and immediately backs away, the wind and droplets hitting him instantly.

The sound of the door opening is the only thing louder to him than the rain. He turns around, his heart hammering.

“Seokjin?” Nari frowns, in a college hoodie and faded jeans, thick socks on her feet. Her hair falls unbrushed down her shoulders and she’s clutching a sheaf of papers in one hand. “What are you doing here?”

He wants to smile; it’s automatic, so he does. Taking a step forward, he thanks his stars he decided to leave the dorm, rain be damned.

“Hi, Nari,” he says, watching her forehead clear just a little bit. “Happy birthday.”

—

Thanks for reading. Don't forget to drop a review :)

[holidayvisa]

27 January 2024 - I woke up at 8:26 am without an alarm to find a text from Cam saying that I needed to meet at the pick-up spot at 8:45 am. I FORGOT TO SET AN ALARM 😱. It took me 20 minutes to walk to this pick-up spot, but I had a scooter now. I didn't have time to eat any breakfast or even pack a lunch, so I threw a few muesli bars in a pack and raced out of the house. I got to the pick-up spot just a couple minutes early. Phew! I got picked up by Cam and Jordan and Ellie (one of today's clients). We drove to Piha and started getting ready for the trip. The other two clients, Will and James, showed up shortly after. I led most of the day, which felt really good. I led all four of the abseils. After the third abseil, we stopped for lunch, like usual. On the fourth abseil (the one in the flow of the water in the narrow slot section), Cam wanted to simulate a rescue scenario. Cam abseiled part of the way down and then pretended to panic while in the flow of the waterfall. I quickly set up to abseil on the other rope, abseiled down to Cam, locked off my abseil device, then physically lifted Cam out of the flow. Once he was out of the flow, he said he could abseil down the rest of the way. So, I set up to ascend my rope using two tiblocs and ascended to the top. At the top, I converted to retrievable and abseiled down. We finished up the last few features and hiked out of the canyon. We said goodbye to Will and James, and we hopped in the van with Ellie.

We drove to Piha Beach! This was my first time going to Piha Beach. When we have clients that we picked up in Auckland, we stop at Piha Beach so clients can take photos and walk along the beach. Piha Beach is a black sand beach from all of the volcanic rock in the area. I expected it to be course sand, but it was really fine and soft and squishy. It was really soothing to bury my feet in the sand. Jordan showed Ellie and me a kowhangatara (or spinifex) seedpod, which is New Zealand's tumbleweed. We watched several of these rolling along the beach and along the dunes.

We walked back to the van, and we practiced handstands for 15 or 20 minutes. I pulled out Cam's guitar and played guitar for a little bit. Eventually, we decided it was time to head out. In the van ride back towards Henderson/Te Atatu, Jordan invited me to join him in going to the Buskers Festival in downtown Auckland; I enthusiastically accepted! And I invited Ellie to join Jordan and me; she enthusiastically accepted! So, Cam dropped all three of us off at Jordan's car in Te Atatu. We piled in and drove into the city. As we walked from Jordan's car to the downtown area, we saw a whole bunch of people gathered. We assumed it was the Buskers Festival, so we headed in that direction. When we got to where the crowds were, we discovered that this was a Redbull diving competition! There were people jumping from 21 m (69 ft) and 27 m (89 ft)! We watched these competitors from all over the world do some INSANE flips and twists in midair and then pencil dive into the water. The most impressive dive we saw (in my opinion) was the New Zealander, who did a handstand on the 27 m platform, held the handstand for a few seconds, then launched himself out, doing two flips/summersaults before plunging into the water! It was incredible!

After seeing the New Zealander, we decided to leave the Redbull diving thing and find the Buskers Festival. We didn't have to go very far before we found it. We watched five different busker performances. The first was a diabolo spinner (also called the Chinese yo-yo) from Austria. The second was Chinnen, a fire spinner from Japan. The third was a pair from Japan called Heromacro, who did unbelievable strength and body control stunts. The fourth was Yldor, from Spain, who rode a bicycle while standing up on the handlebars and juggled flaming pins while standing up on the bike, one foot on the seat and one foot steering the handlebars! The fifth was a pair from Germany called Compania JoCa, who did tandem acrobatics, strength and body control, and cyr wheel (a big, metal hoop). Yldor was my favorite, and Heromacro was my second favorite. Yldor was really funny, and he was very warm and positive with the audience interaction. All of the buskers were phenomenal.

After the Buskers Festival ended around 8 pm, Jordan, Ellie, and I drove to the night market in Pakuranga. We all got food and ate there. Jordan shared with us Mauri fry bread and Mauri raw fish, both were delicious. After the night market, we went back to Jordan's place and pet the cats, played ukelele, and hung out til after midnight. I missed the last train back to Henderson from Auckland, so Jordan drove me home.

I'm grateful to Cam for trusting me with leading a lot of the trip today. I'm grateful for a fun day in Piha Canyon followed by a beautiful visit to Piha Beach. Cam told me that whenever there's a big trip from now on, I'll be a paid second guide! I'm grateful to Jordan for inviting me to join him at the Buskers Festival. I'm grateful for Jordan's and Ellie's company all day! I'm grateful for the opportunity to see some amazing buskers from all around the world. I'm grateful for Jordan's friendship. Jordan is a really good guy; he's genuine, generous, and compassionate.

[cinimon01]

Mai Tai experience 2024

Adventures of 60 somethings on board a catamaran.

On the 31st of January 2024, we became the proud owners of a Lagoon 400 2010 model, located in Opua New Zealand.

On the 27th of February, after a few family engagements, we flew to Auckland and drove 3 hours to Opua Marina, gathering some simple supplies on the way. I felt so cold and exhausted when we arrived that I nearly cried at the thought of living on this small, damp and smelly boat for the next 5 years. What had we done, we had a perfectly good life in a house. Why why why?

The next day was better.

28th February 2024, we sorted out a few things and organized a few others. Where to put clothes, towels, and did we have enough. Sheets were on board, but I threw most out as they were thin and barley reuseable. I started a list of things to but for us and the boat to be comfortable and livable for the next…..years?

So first trip in our hire car to Whangarei, (Pronounced Foneray) we found Spotlight, Countdown, Kmart and Bunnings. We loaded up and drove the 1 hour back to Opua.

1st March 2024: Next day we though we would take her for a spin and charge batteries and empty the black water tank, (the wee and poo tank). So we got out to open water and came into the bay of Russell. Lovely little spot but the anchor wouldn’t go down, so I suggested David just drive around and Ill cook breakfast/brunch.

So we did that and headed back to the marina. On our approach, on an outgoing tide, she was hard to handle. The birth spot was big enough for a catamaran but not big enough for us to park in with our limited experience and a tide that wanted to push us where we did not want to go. So I am running around the deck shouting directions to David. More like, “STOP, YOUR GOING TO HIT THE WHARF”. More things like, “Oh what the FUCK, we are going to crash”. Came out of my mouth on several occasions. We had the neighbours, folk from boats near us, on the dock along with the harbor master Shane. He was speaking calmly to David about pulling back and not so heavy on the power, but I don’t think he could hear him over my screaming, “We are going to crash.”

Yes we hit the dock and crushed our port side sugar scoop with an indent of about 25cm long and 10cm deep. Not too much damage to the boat but our self esteem was shattered, and I was a nervous wreck. One of our neighbours from a boat named Scallywag, was on the dock to console us. He had just had a similar experience and the tide pushed him into the bow spirt of another boat punching a hole in the side of his 50 ft catamaran…..Ouch.

2nd March 2024: Olly the previous owner came by and he sorted out the windlass, (anchor) not working problem. He said he cleaned up some loose wiring and maybe some got lost in the process and he unplugged the windlass. Not sure but he got it going and answered a lot of David's questions. We told him about our encounter with the dock and he said, “You know what they say, “You haven’t been around if you haven’t run aground”. I’m not sure if that made me feel better but, there you have it.

3rd March 2024: We gathered up our torn confidence and broken dreams decided we had to get back on the horse….so to speak. So out we went for another attempt at having fun on our new boat. This time we dropped the anchor in Russell, and I just put the kettle on when the afternoon storm that was expected at 1pm came early and interrupted our 10am brunch. So up came the anchor and we headed back to the marina. Before we even arrived my stress levels were off the chart. But we listened to Shane and came in on a slack tide and we managed to berth Mai Tai without incident. This was cause for celebration, so we had a shower and went into Paihia for dinner and a bottle of wine.

8th March 2024: Flew back to Sydney for my 60th birthday cruise on board Celebrity Edge to …..of all places, New Zealand. During this cruise we saw parts of the South Island and the sounds that were absolutely breath taking. The enormity of these places that we could now explore in our own boat! So we decided to skip the Rally to Fiji this year and explore New Zealand for 12 months. Plus we are not experienced enough in operating our boat yet. We need time and some nautical miles before we conquer open water.

[gumnut-logic]

Dear Mr Tracy (Part 4, Bit 3)

Sweetapple | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 - Bit 1, Bit 2, Bit 3

@flyboytracy​​​​​, @amistrio​​​​​ and @onereyofstarlight​​​​​​  you asked for it, so you get to suffer more :D

Many thanks to @onereyofstarlight​ for all the plotwork and character building we did today, and to @gaviiadastra​ for the readthrough tonight ::hugs the both of you:: And, of course, to the wonderful Thunderfam who continue to cheer me on in this endeavour ::hugs you all tight::

This is the last bit of Part Four. This fic is now longer than the first fic in this series and still has a way to go...I just gotta find that way. Virgil is being difficult and stubborn. Scott is exasperated. Alex is a stunned mullet. I have a great group in my head at the moment. Gordon is determined to lighten everything up by being a smart ass :D

There is a reason why I go by the name ‘Nutty’ ::headdesk::

But anyway, I hope you enjoy this bit and I will continue to wrangle these brats for the next part.

-o-o-o-

Alex was transfixed.

Dressed in the neatest pair of slacks, shoes and shirt he could find in his closet, he stood on the runway watching as the massive Thunderbird Two landed gracefully in front of them.

He hadn’t even been working at Tracy Industries a year yet, and here he was being offered the ride of a lifetime.

Erica was going to be so pissed.

“Have you flown much, Mr Sweetapple?” Mr Jeff Tracy’s eyes were curious.

“Uh, no Mr Tracy. A little. Went to Australia once, there and back. And, of course, from Auckland to here. Been much more of where my car can reach kind of guy.”

Thunderbird Two’s VTOL folded up under her undercarriage and Alex marvelled at the design, listing off the mechanics that would be required to make that work. How to stop pinching fuel lines and heat dissipation at the top of the challenge list.

Mr Jeff Tracy was eyeing him, he could feel it.

And Alex realised that the Thunderbirds were likely top secret technology and here he was, attempting to disassemble them with his brain.

A hatch lowered from under the Thunderbird’s nose and Virgil Tracy stepped off.

Both Mr Tracys moved and Alex and Tia were startled into motion.

He wondered if Tia had ever flown in a Thunderbird.

They met Virgil halfway. The IR operative eyed his father, but a glare was thrown at Mr Scott Tracy and something was said without words. Alex had no idea what, but he had the strong impression that Virgil wasn’t happy with Mr Tracy at all.

He did, however approach his father. “You okay, Dad? How’s your leg?”

“Perfectly fine, Virgil.” It was said with tolerance. “We have guests.”

Virgil’s eyes darted to Alex and Tia, and Alex was struck with the exhaustion etched into the man’s face. The contrast with his appearance the last time Alex had seen him months before was stark.

“Are you okay?” It burst forth without thought and Alex bit his lip.

Dark eyes frowned at him and the shoulders under the famous uniform straightened a little. “Congratulations on the test, Alex.”

“Um, thank you.” It wasn’t his place, he knew that, but Virgil quite frankly looked like shit.

Beside Alex, Mr Tracy straightened and stepped towards his brother. “Virgil, a minute?”

That prompted the return of the glare and, while Mr Tracy held out an arm and led Virgil off a ways.

“I think it would be prudent if we boarded.” Mr Jeff Tracy was eyeing both of his sons as Virgil started gesticulating at his brother.

Mr Tracy’s expression was calm beneath that storm.

Alex tried to remember what International Rescue had been doing over the last week or so. Admittedly, he hadn’t been paying as much attention as he would have usually as he had been buried in the preparations for the test. He could think of at least three incidents involving Thunderbird Two which likely meant Virgil had been out during those times.

Fireman Fred had a habit of recording the news reports and breaking down the strategies used in the rescues. His favourite Thunderbird was definitely Thunderbird Two.

Which was looming up and over Alex this very moment.

She was so big!

And green. But the green wasn’t out of place, it was just the colour she was meant to be.

Mr Jeff Tracy led them onto the platform lift that Virgil had leapt off earlier and his cane tapped heavily on the metal decking. They all turned around waiting for the two brothers standing in the middle of the landing field.

Virgil was still gesticulating but Mr Tracy cut it all off with a sharp word. His body language screamed ‘enough’ and flicking one hand to the side he turned and strode purposefully towards them.

Virgil glared after him, but his shoulders suddenly slumped as if in defeat and he soon followed his brother.

Something was obviously up. But neither brother said a thing as they joined Alex, Tia and their father on the platform.

Virgil poked at a control on one arm and Alex stumbled just a little as the hatch began to retract into the giant plane.

The inside of the Thunderbird was also green. Alex’s heart was beating hard inside his ribcage, not believing this was actually happening.

“Hey, Alex!” Gordon Tracy was shaking his hand. “Great to see you again. This is my brother Alan.” He gestured to the blond young man dressed in a hoodie and jeans beside him.

Alan waved. “Kia ora, Alex.”

Alex found his manners. “Kia ora, Alan.”

Gordon was grinning. “And this is Kayo.”

Kayo, a petite woman with long dark hair pulled back rather tight, held out a hand and Alex found himself taking it and shaking it in greeting. Something in the woman’s eyes pierced his skull and read the how-to-operate instructions on his soul.

Gordon snorted. “Don’t worry, we don’t let her kill our engineers.”

Alex frowned at the aquanaut and Gordon shrugged.

“Kayo is our head of security. She probably knows the colour of your underwear today.”

“Gordon!” The name came from several exasperated directions.

But Kayo’s lips curled into a small and mysterious smile and didn’t deny a thing.

Alex quite calmly put her on his mental list of people he should never piss off.

“Alex, you can sit with me while Dad and Scott ‘decide’ who gets to ride shotgun.”

“I know who is going to be riding in the module if he doesn’t stop talking in the near future.” Mr Tracy strode past, all blue jeans, blue shirt and tense shoulders.

Alex found himself next to Gordon behind the co-pilot’s seat with an excellent view of the pilot seating himself and readying the Thunderbird for flight.

The two Mr Tracys did indeed have a short discussion on who rode in the co-pilot’s seat, but it was more of a you, no, you discussion. In the end, Mr Jeff Tracy directed his eldest son to sit and took a seat himself beside Kayo.

Who was still casually eyeing Alex.

He had lab lasers that were less intense.

Tia ended up beside Alan and once they were all strapped in, the roar of the Thunderbird around them grew in intensity before lifting them smoothly off the ground.

-o-o-o-

Next

[aucklandcarpartsblog]

Top Benefits of Selecting the Nissan used parts in NZ for Your Car

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[carremovalservice]

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Many places offer second-hand parts, but the key is to find a vendor with a solid reputation. Look for suppliers who provide a warranty and have a track record of customer satisfaction. These steps can help you avoid the pitfalls of buying faulty or worn-out parts that could end up costing you more in the long run.

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[jcp-car-parts]

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[bamianautoparts]

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STEER CLEAR OF THE FRAUD

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[japanesecarremoval]

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[frootyrooties]

i’ve just realised i haven’t done an official review of all the places i’ve been to this year and since i’ve been to so many, i will try to keep it short and sweet. i might even divide this review in two parts. anyways, without further ado here we go:

starting off with the countries down undah

australia

-the koalas and joeys were absolutely adorable. shame i didn’t go to the bigger zoo (taronga) to hold a koala but you know, there is always a next time.

-this is very american of me to say, but i had one of the best McDonald’s burgers at sydney airport. i usually go out of my way to go to the nearest McDonald’s in any country i go as it always fascinates me how international menus differ from the standard macca’s menu in US

-scenery was okay

-bondi beach was pretty. it gave southern france vibes.

-downtown sydney had some great areas for running (esp in the morning when not too crowded)

-i went there during their winter. i would like to go back to experience their summer to see what it’s like.

-overall, Sydney like a diluted version of London

overall rating: 7/10

new zealand

-absolutely stunning views

-i only went two cities (Auckland and Queenstown), but i was still amazed with the view both places had to offer

-i would say NZ is a cross between England and Ireland with regard to the scenery

-food was okay. they basically eat like the english. meat and potatoes, that sort of thing.

-queenstown was absolutely breathtaking.

-again, similar weather to australia when i went. i would love to go back and experience their summer as well

-would be nice to explore the northern end of the island to the southern end (personally, i would love to visit Stewart Island for obvious reasons)

overall rating: 10/10

moving on to european countries

england

-london is london. business as usual. didn’t spend too much time there as i have already been there a few times as i was more interested in exploring the countryside. anyway, the tube is always fun to ride. not to miss!

-i really enjoyed driving “on the wrong side” didn’t take long for me to learn the rules of the road there. absolutely worth renting a car especially if you’re wanting to explore england’s rural areas.

-now, the countryside (i went to Banbury bordering the Cotswolds, Peak District and Lake District) and i was truly amazed with just how stunning the views were in these places

-oxford was also very stunning. loved exploring oxford university and the vicinity.

-food was okay.

-liverpool and manchester are literally the loves of my life (and yes i am biased about those places for personal reasons). I want to back again and again and again and ag-

overall rating: 10/10

..i will stop here and do a part 2 (maybe 3 as well)

[charmsandtealeaves]

Seriously questioning the NZ general public for their vote to install National. Here’s some highlights of what our new government plans to do (how much they will actually manage who knows, but several of these are listed in their first 100 days plan):

Stop free prescriptions

Scrap Fair Pay Agreements, which allow unions to strike industry-wide deals that establish a “floor” in terms of pay and conditions

Stop benefits from being index to median household wages (except for superannuation) so; unemployment, jobseeker, and disability payments. People on job seeker payments are $50/week worse off while those on disability are worse off $60/week

Will allow landlords to once again evict tenants without cause, alongside scrapping a range of other regulations it argues have decreased rental supply and pushed up prices 🙄

Axe the $14.6 billion light rail project in Auckland (as they plan to spend a similar figure on seven highway projects instead)

Cancel the $7.4b “Let’s get Wellington Moving” project. Two of LGWM’s most significant projects included the introduction of light rail in Wellington from the city centre to the south coast and the “pedestrianisation” of the Golden Mile precinct. National want to instead… build another traffic tunnel….

Eliminate the Māori Health Authority, Te Aka Whai Ora.

Scrap Health Star Rating for food.

Repeal Labour’s Resource Management Act reforms, and introduce a fast-track consenting regime…. Because making rash decisions around resource consents sounds like a solid idea 🙄

Get rid of The Clean Car Scheme, which subsidises part of the purchase of electric vehicles and hybrids.

Remove the Medium-Density Residential Standards (the 3x3 “sausage flat” law) that are designed to prevent urban sprawl….

Axe taxpayer funding for Section 27 cultural reports that are used in sentencing. Section 27 of the Sentencing Act 2002 provides an avenue for lawyers and defendants to explain personal circumstances that can influence a just sentence outcome, such as social failures faced by the defendant or any support available to them.

End funding for Labour’s “Community Connect” programme, meaning many of the public transport discounts that currently exist will be axed.

There’s more but I am just about done. WTF NZ 😭